Guest post written by Sue Choi, SFSU student and intern extraordinaire at TuneUp Media.
Fall semester at college is right around the corner so I’ve compiled a list of 8 back-to-school essentials that you probably didn’t know you need. Now I’m sure you’ve got the basics like notebooks and pencils – those are a given. But this list has more relevant items to help you survive and stand out during the best years of your life! Most of these items come from lessons learned the hard way, so make notes and share with your friends!
1. Alarm Clock. No, not just any alarm clock, but the most annoying one out there. Trust me, nothing is worse than the feeling of your heart dropping when you realize you’re going to be late to take your final exam. This isn’t high school anymore so professors don’t care for your excuses. In fact, some of my past professors locked the doors exactly on the dot. The list of alarm clocks here are sure to wake up even the deepest sleepers to ensure that you never miss an important event!
2. Weekly Dry Erase Calendar. Honestly, having a simple planner might not cut it for most of you. How often have you written down something in your planner, but then forgot to open the planner later? Next thing you know, you realize you forgot to read the chapters assigned to you earlier in the week. It’s more convenient to quickly make a note in your phone (we’re already using them all the time) and then transfer the important dates/events up on a calender in you room. That way, you have more time to prepare as the date comes closer. No need to overwhelm yourself with a monthly calendar, just focus on your tasks week by week. It really is a lot easier to study for Friday’s test when you see a visual cue reminding you everyday.
3. 30 Pairs of Socks and Underwear. Who really has enough quarters to do laundry every week? Okay, I’m kidding. The point is, the more the better. There will be days where you may rely on open laundry machines on a Sunday evening, but lo and behold, that’s when everybody else is doing laundry. Be prepared and save yourself the embarrassment by stocking up on these important necessities.
4. Snacks…Healthy Snacks. Sure the vending machines may seem convenient…and tempting (I had choco tacos available in my dorm lobby) but take care of your body and have healthy options available. Even if that means having to wear a baggy sweatshirt to sneak a banana up your sleeve and a couple apples in your hood on the way out of your dining center. Hey, you paid for the meal plan right? You’ll thank yourself when you don’t gain the infamous “Freshman 15“.
5. Breath Mints/Gum. You’re going to be meeting tons of people everyday. The worst first impression you could make is being remembered as the one with bad breath. Breath mints/gum will come in handy if you’re rushing out to class and didn’t have time to brush your teeth, when you give in to those garlic fries at lunch before class, and more importantly, before those dates you’ll be going on. *high five*
6. “Going Out” Wallet/Bag/Jacket: You may think that going out to parties and bars in your favorite jacket with your favorite wallet or bag might be a great idea, but think again. There’s a good probability of your stuff getting lost or ruined and nothing is more devastating than getting beer spilled all over your brand new jacket. This is a must.
7. Earphones. Better yet, noise cancelling headphones. Anything that can block out noise when you’re up late studying in your room while your roommate is passed out snoring. These will also come in handy when you need to block out distractions in the library, an excuse to avoid conversation on public transportation, to listen to motivating music while working out, and when you need a break in between classes.
8. TuneUp Media. College is one of the best places to discover new music. From parties to concerts, your music collection is bound to expand. Connecting through music is one of the best ways you can make new friends as well and let’s be honest, this is the best way to score some free music! But don’t be that person who shares dirty music with songs missing cover art or labeled “Track 01″. That’s got to be one of the biggest pet peeves…ever. Instead, impress your friends with a completely organized iTunes library with the help of TuneUp. It’s fast and simple so don’t worry about it taking time away from your awesome social life. One of the best parts about TuneUp is the feature called “Tuniverse“. You can access artist bios, music videos, band merchandise, and even set up personalized concert alerts! Check it out for yourself and take advantage of the free trial here.
