Going to university is nothing short of formative. Career paths are found and forged, once-in-a-lifetime experiences discovered, and lifelong friendships made along the way. With more and more applying to university in recent years, more are opening themselves up to the unique enrichment of higher education. That first step into a new life is a daunting one for everyone that makes it, and preparing for it can be nerve-wracking – especially if you’re puzzling over what you might need to take with you. The following are five helpful things you might not think to get ahead of starting university, but will enhance your life no end.
A Flask, or Re-usable Coffee Cup
Investing in a good thermos flask, or re-usable coffee cup, might well be the smartest decision you make before your semester starts. The luxury of having a hot drink to hand in the lecture hall, the library or even on your way to and from university is unparalleled; not only that, you’re saving the environment with every take-away coffee you get made in it!
Wireless Headphones
The practical utility of wireless headphones cannot be overstated. Not only are they a handy way for you to listen to your favourite music or podcasts, but they’re also a portal to your very own study zone. Whether you’re in the library or at home doing your best to drown out your housemates, your trusty headphones will make focusing a breeze. Wireless headphones don’t have to be expensive either, with a wide range of affordable models available online.
First Aid Kit
This is one of those items you won’t realise you need until you suddenly need it. In all the excitement of moving on-campus and starting your course, it likely won’t occur to you to pick up plasters – resulting in a mad dash when you inadvertently cut yourself chopping onions in your halls kitchen. Having a small first aid kit to hand can be a lifesaver in a number of situations, and a handy thing to buy in advance.
Portable/Bed Desk
You may not anticipate spending much study time attempting to balance your expensive laptop, five reference books and 7th mug of tea on your bed, what with the wide range of resources and working spaces available to you throughout your course – but believe me when I tell you your bed will swiftly become your home away from home when it comes to studying. Save yourself the hassle, and grab yourself a bed tray or laptop stand – future you will thank you profusely.
A Good Dressing Gown
Sometimes it’s the creature comforts that make all the difference when you leave home for the first time. A dressing gown is one of those things that can automatically improve your day, whether keeping you cosy during your morning routine or providing the perfect mobile blanket to slip into after a hard week of work. Investing a little more in a high-quality gown is well worth it, and with proper care your dressing gown could see you right through to the night before your graduation!