College is a wonderful place, full of wonderful people. When the time comes to make the transition from home to college, universities try to make it a smooth transition by sending out a list of sugested items to bring. However, if you have already survived more than a month of college, you know that there are some crucial items missing from that list. Here are 5 items that need to be added to the college essentials list:
1. Plunger.
This may sound ridiculous, but it’s true. At some point everyone needs a plunger, but very rarely do students actually have a plunger in their room. Waiting for maintenance to come fix your toilet is never any fun. When it comes time to do some school shopping, make sure a plunger is near the top of the list.
2. Large Trash Can
Dorm rooms come with small garbage cans like the ones that are in hotel rooms, and while those trash cans are great for a short vacation, they are completely unrealistic for living in a dorm room. If you are someone who does not want to be bothered with walking to the trash room every day, buying a large trash can is the way to go. The little ones work great next to your bed, though.
3. Durable Umbrella
Umbrellas are often on the list of items to bring, but durability is not included. If you go to IUP, you know that it often stands for: It’s Usually Precipitating. While the little umbrella is completely adorable and light weight, it’s unrealistic. The weather can be cruel and that type of umbrella won’t survive the very many windy and rainy days here in good old Indiana, PA.
4. Lots of Socks
This may seem insane, but trust me. There is something about coming to college and losing socks left and right. Whether it be in the washer or the dryer or somewhere in your room–socks always seem to disappear without a trace. Packing a few extra packs of socks is highly recommended, especially for those rainy days.
5. Sticky Notes
College is a time where your mind is constantly going a million miles per minute. Sticky notes keep you organized and act as useful reminders for everything you need to get done. Whether throwing some in your backpack or keeping a pile on your desk, these little things can be lifesavers.
During the first year of college you learn a lot about yourself and the people around you. You will also learn what items are necessities and what items you can leave at home after the summer. However, these 5 items will prove their worth and will always end up back at college with you.