I know we all Googled “college necessities” so don’t roll your eyes at the title of this article and assume you’ve heard it all before. At the end of reading this, if you feel that you had guessed every item on the list before looking, then you may pat yourself on the back, congratulations.
Here are five things that are crucial to surviving in college:
1. Candles (or something of the sort)
Let’s face it, you haven’t done your laundry since move-in day, even though you swore to your mom on the phone that you just got back from throwing it in the dryer, and your room smells. From that two-week old pizza in the fridge you keep saying you’re going to eat to the trash that you haven’t taken out because the dumpster is on the first floor, something needs to be done about that stench. Don’t be embarrassed, you’re not alone. Just pick up a candle, some air freshener, or some potpourri to get rid of that smell. And, if you use your Bath and Body Works coupons as religiously as I do, finding something that smells like the inside of a pumpkin shouldn’t be difficult at all.
2. A coloring book and some crayons
You don’t need to be under the age of 10 to enjoy a coloring book. My roommate and I both have adult coloring books along with a few Disney ones and we break them out probably twice a week. It’s a fantastic way to get your mind off that homework you were procrastinating anyways.
3. A calendar countdown
Most articles will indeed mention that you need a calendar to stay organized, which is true, but I find it extremely important to make a countdown. What do I mean by that? Pick an event that you’re looking forward to. Maybe your parents are visiting next weekend or maybe they’re serving pizza in the cafeteria next weekend. Either way, it helps you work just a bit harder knowing that you’re working towards something exciting. Even if it is that pizza next week.
4. Just a little something from home
I know in most articles it will tell you that one of the most important things to keep in your dorm are pictures. Tons and tons of pictures. But, that’s not what I am alluding to here. It’s important to have a little piece of home with you. If that thing is pictures, go for it. But, something physical and symbolic often truly helps with things like homesickness and stress. My suite mate keeps a pillow case from her bedroom at home on one of her pillows. The Care Bear pillow case doesn’t necessarily match her Urban Outfitters bed sheets and comforter, but she keeps it on her bed to have a little piece of her home with her.
5. SLEEP
SLEEP IS SO IMPORTANT. I know, I know, I’m preaching to the choir. But, sleep is vital. Sometimes, yes, all-nighters are a must to ace that test or to finish that paper, but sleep is incredibly important. Make time for sleep, always, even if it’s just a 45-minute power nap (which sometimes is the most simple way to boost your energy for hours). It is imperative that you keep up with your health in college and one of the most common things students forget that is necessary is getting a good night’s sleep!
