Seven Things I Can't Live Without at College

I recently discovered mashable.com, a multi-faceted news website with interesting articles on the latest news, opinions, and tips for everything under the sun.

Browsing through it, I discovered this post about things you have to have at college. Yes, why didn’t I think of this when I was a freshman? I definitely still have keepsakes from my years before college that I have carefully preserved, in addition to essentials I certainly can’t live without.

My dorm room.

Here are some of the things I couldn’t live without. I’m pretty sure these might be some of yours, too.

1. iPad
Yes, this handy Apple creation is not just to play Angry Birds on after that mind-numbing midterm exam. After junior year, when all my classes were in the medical school across the street, I wasn’t going to lugging my laptop along to class. With Blackboard and Notability, I can access class notes at the drop of a hat and edit them, write in them just like any other notebook. Love this technology.

2. Headphones
For the days in the library when it gets just too noisy, or its one of those beautiful days where you want to bask in the sunshine outside the Periodical Reading Room in the Rush Rhees galley and study to your favorite music.

3. Smartphone
Yes, this is the USA. Smartphones, especially iPhones are everywhere. But apart from that fact, I actually think having a smartphone at college helps me tremendously. I check my email, tackle those last minute study questions, (and ahem, use social media) all on the way to class. Time saved; check. Efficiency; check.

4. Coffee mug
You definitely need a coffee mug at college. For those late nights in the library, just ask Starbucks to give your coffee in the reusable mug, and sit down for a long night of studying in Rush Rhees.

5. Photo collage of my high school memories
Why forget the last day of high school ever? Why forget your senior prom? Nearly every room I have been to is personalized with memories treasured in photographs. Honestly, its just refreshing to step back, take a deep breathe and remember those good times that made you smile – its good endorphins for stress levels.

6. Fleece blanket
Rochester can get cold, but its also nice to just snuggle into the fleece blanket while reading those lectures that go way off your head. Just don’t fall asleep!

7. Hipster glasses
You know, the nerdy look is in. And of course, you can actually focus on what is being taught in class then. Mine are even purple!

So what are some things you would never come to college without?!