As I start my first week of classes for senior year, I cannot help but reflect on the essentials that have been game changers. Going back to school is an exciting time but it can also be met with nerves. New classes, new teachers, new friends, and so much more!
As a rising senior at Auburn University, I thought it would be fun to create a back-to-school/apartment essentials list. These are 10 products I have used almost every year from dorm to dorm and different apartments.
In no specific order... that would just be way too hard.
I love my shoe organizer! I have yet to use it for shoes, but I think it is so helpful for bathroom storage. I love to keep my everyday essentials in the pockets to clear up space on my counter. This is also super helpful for a dorm bathroom because everyone can get their own pockets to keep things neat and organized!
I have seen mixed things on TikTok recently but I personally love my North Face Backpack. I have the Borealis bag and it is perfect for fitting everything I need. Freshman year I had a Jansport backpack, which I used in high school, but it was not waterproof and my notebooks got soaked and all the writing smeared :(
Rain jacket/umbrella
With that being said, a rain jacket is so important! They are super lightweight and fit well in your backpack for storage. I like to check the weather in the morning before class. If there is at least a 50% chance of rain, I usually bring my rain jacket because I hate getting caught in the rain. Nothing ruins a good day like soggy socks.
I have a gray reading pillow that I have used since freshman year. It is simple and matches well with other decor. I do not like to admit it but you will spend so much time in your bed at college. This pillow has been perfect for propping up against while eating a quick dinner or watching Netflix. It is also super comfortable if your friends come over.
Spiral notebooks
I love spiral notebooks! I have used composition books but it is just not the same. I love the 5-star 3 to 5 subject notebooks, depending on how many classes I have that I will take paper notes in. I would highly recommend taking paper notes because it helps you focus during class and you will retain the information better. I like to have a section for each class. For example, I write the course name, the professor's name, office hours, and other important information on the front page so it is easy to find. I have noticed this keeps me more organized because I always have all my school stuff on hand so if it is a MWF class I can work on it on TR.
A laptop is so important especially in the era of COVID-19 where so many classes are virtual. In terms of brands, I have used Windows and Mac in college and see the pros and cons of each. I currently have a MacBook Air and I love how lightweight it is and how soft the keyboard keys are. One thing I have noticed about Mac is that it is easier to customize the laptop. I got a laptop and keyboard cover that allow me to show my personality and aesthetic. Plus, as a college student, you get free AirPods with most laptop (and iPad) purchases.
Storage organizers
Storage is essential in college! Your room will likely be smaller than what you're used to at home. I have a 4 Drawer Storage Tower that I love. I have kept health and beauty aid items in there as well as school supplies I do not need every day. I love the different heights of the drawers. The thin drawers are great for makeup or everyday essentials and the bottom ones can be used for health products and random things you do not need every day.
Bedside caddy
I love cloth bedside caddies! Believe it or not, I did not have one my freshman year and boy do I regret that. It is a great place to store things like journals, medicine, and so much more. I love how it attaches to the bed and can be out of sight. It is convenient for storing things you may need to get in the night and can replace a nightstand.
AirPods
Where would we be without technology?! I love how my AirPods seamlessly transition from my phone to my laptop. I love wearing them on the way to class or on the bus. They are perfect for workouts. Also, use them for watching lectures or Zoom meetings if I am in a public place. AirPods are a solid investment and definitely popular in college.
Velvet hangers
I have used velvet hangers every year. I got them freshman year because lots of my clothes were falling off the standard hangers and I DID NOT trust that dorm floor. Another great thing about the velvet hangers is they allow you to hang more clothes which is great since your closet will likely be smaller than what you are used to. And not to mention, a closet full of the same type of hanger is so aesthetically pleasing. So do yourself a favor and get some hangers!
I hope this list was helpful and got you in the back-to-school mode! I always love getting to decorate spaces and share my favorite products. Good luck to everyone in the new school year, and let me know your favorite dorm/apartment essentials!