10 Essentials For College

Students need 10 essentials to succeed in college that don't include books or great professors. College life also includes maintaining a social life, getting involved in extra-curricular activities, and finding ways to live comfortably in the dorms. Find out what you need to prepare for college:

1. A sturdy backpack is essential. From the first semester, students are overloaded with books, folders and supplies.  They need a decent, functional backpack to carry a heavy load of materials around campus all day.  Important: Carry everything needed for the day to avoid wasting time returning to the room to prepare for class.
2. Bring shower shoes for the public bathrooms. Although the bathrooms in the dorms are cleaned regularly, they are used hundreds of times a day. Wear shower shoes in the public showers so you don't contract a fungus. The showers may look clean, but you never know what someone did in there before you.
3. A part-time job is essential to independence. Part-time jobs teach students how to behave professionally at work and build their confidence for future jobs. They also make their own money, which allows them to be independent and less reliant on a monthly allowance from their parents.
4. Invest in a computer with essential programs. Although colleges provide public computers, owning a personal computer is much more convenient. Students who have their own computers can complete their assignments anywhere at any time. Tip: A laptop computer allows students to work on assignments anywhere on and off campus, which is essential to success.
5. Store laundry essentials in the dorm. Independent living includes doing your own laundry. Students shouldn't bring their dirty clothes home for their parents to wash. Bring a laundry basket, detergent, bleach, and dryer sheets to use the public laundry mats in the dorm.
6. Always have a pair of walking shoes. Students spend a considerable portion of the day walking to class, the cafeteria and their dorm. A good pair of walking shoes will keep feet healthy. Important: Try to find shoes with good arch supports and cushion. Flat, hard shoes hurt after long periods of walking.
7. Bring cleaning supplies. It is the student's responsibility to clean their room; the janitors do not clean their rooms for them. Buy a vacuum cleaner and cleaning solution, and clean the room regularly.
8. Get a cell phone plan. Students need to talk to their family and distant friends every now and then. Also, they can use their cell phone if there is an emergency.
9. Put a refrigerator in the room. Students get hungry at all times of the night, and the cafeterias don't stay open twenty-four hours a day. They can store the foods they like and eat when they want throughout the day.
10. Consider getting microwaveable dishes and silverware. Colleges have public kitchens supplied with a variety of dishes, but the students who use the dishes don't always clean them.