Everything (well, almost) You Need for College

After having spent 4 months in college, I consider myself an expert on stuff you'll need to be successful and just all-around happy in college. Okay, I'm kidding about the expert part, but I do know a thing or two about things I've found to be very useful in college.

1. A desk fan. The beginning of the school year was very, very hot so it came in handy when I was doing HW and even just trying to sleep through the hot nights. Now it's much cooler (well, at least outside) and I use the fan at night as white noise. It works wonders at blocking out all the noise going on in the hall.
2. An ethernet cord. I still haven't figured out how to get my laptop to work on the wireless network, so I always make sure my ethernet cord is plugged in so I can get on the net. Even if you have wireless, make sure you stash one of these cords in case something happens to your connection. Otherwise, what will you do without all those dumb YouTube videos?
3. Gum. Yeah, it sounds kinda weird, but it's great to keep you awake in class or just to freshen your breath if you're planning on meeting a hot guy later. Stick with mint or cinnamon flavors--my favorite is 5 Gum in cobalt (peppermint) or flare (cinnamon).
4. Instant coffee. Starbucks makes some great instant stuff, Via, and it tastes pretty much the same as the coffee they make on-location. They even have flavored and iced versions. It's a great pick-me-up on a long afternoon or it you've gotta pull an all-nighter studying for finals. Plus, you don't have to have a coffee maker--just heat up some water in the microwave, pour in a cup and stir. It's perfect for dorms that don't have much room or if you're not close to a Starbucks (which, sadly, I'm not).
5. Gloves, hat and scarf. Of course, this only applies if you live somewhere that gets cold during the winter, but most of the U.S. does so if you don't, consider yourself lucky. Stash them in your purse if you're planning on being out all day; you never know how cold it might get later on and it's always better to be overprepared.
6. Microwave. Okay, this might be obvious to some of you, but it really is an essential. Maybe you don't want to get up early to grab breakfast in the dining hall (this is me) and you want to be able to heat up water for oatmeal or coffee. Or it's cold outside or you've had a long day and you'd rather make something quick in your room. You can make SO many things in a microwave it's not even funny. I use my micro on a daily basis, from making veggie sausages in the morning or heating up a noodle bowl for lunch or cooking a frozen burrito from the dining hall's express store for dinner.
7. Food. Back to the whole convenience thing. Sometimes, you just don't feel like trekking to the dining hall or you're just sick of the food. This is when having a stocked 'pantry' really comes in handy. Stock up on basics and snacks so you know you'll be covered no matter what. I have so much food in my room but it definitely does not go to waste. This is where a mini fridge/freezer also helps; you can keep water cold, have milk for your cereal, store snack dips and maybe even some room for frozen stuff.
8. Flats. I mean the shoes, of course. Unless you're a pro at walking in 5-inch stilettos, save those for parties. Ballet flats, flip-flops, moccasins and Ugg-style boots are all perfect for walking around campus, even if you've got a lot of places to go. And flats can be just as cute as heels :)
9. Lighted mirror. Okay, in case you can't tell, this post is really aimed toward girls. Sorry, guys, but I know way more about girl stuff since I am one. This comes in handy if your roomie sleeps in late and you've gotta get ready for class in the dark. At least you'll be able to see exactly what color eyeshadow you're putting on!
10. iPod. Or some kind of mp3 player. It's great for focusing on HW or studying because you can block out the sounds in the next room. If you walk to class alone, you won't be bored. Play it in your dorm using some kind of dock to liven up a boring night in your room (dance party, anyone?) Oh, and it can help you fall asleep on those loud nights. If you get one where you can play games, even better!

Of course, there's plenty more things I could list that are 'essential' to college life, but I wanted to keep it short and sweet so you're not overwhelmed. If you're headed to college next year or are already experiencing it, take note! Not everything on the list may be important to you, but just pick and choose what you think will be best for your lifestyle.