Returning to campus and attending in person classes after a long year has been stressful for
many of us, including me! One way I cope with this is to make sure I have everything I need,
when I need it. In any case, we tend to forget some of the everyday necessities a student might
need, especially if we are spending long hours walking all around campus and having long
study periods. So, I’ve compiled a comprehensive list of some of the things we might need
throughout our long days!
- Hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes
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Of course, the first thing that comes to mind when I think about what we absolutely need in our bags- especially in the midst of a pandemic- is hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes. By carrying and using these items, you are not only ensuring the safety of yourself but also the safety of the others around you. As a general rule, try to apply hand sanitizer before and after entering a building/ Also, make sure to disinfect your work space before placing your items there. This way, you won’t be spreading or picking up as many germs around campus!
- extra masks
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Most schools now have policies in place which ensures that students are wearing a mask in class. I think we can all agree that this is a great policy, but for someone like me who is taking a full load of classes, this might mean wearing a mask for 6-7 hours straight! This is why I recommend carrying extra masks with you in case you misplace your original or just need a fresh mask.
- Sunscreen
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One of the most important parts of my skincare routine is diligently applying sunscreen to my face in the mornings; however, I think most people forget that you should be reapplying it throughout the day! To do this, I usually carry a small bottle in my backpack. I apply a layer underneath my makeup and then use a sunscreen stick on top of my makeup every few hours. You should try to avoid skin damage at all costs!
- feminine hygiene products
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I think every menstruating person has experienced the surprise of an early period and the dread of not having an extra pad or tampon with them. Although some women’s restrooms do have extra hygiene items, it is better to be prepared for anything! Always carry extra feminine hygiene products in your bag for not only yourself, but also so you can help any others in need.
- portable chargers
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One of the worst things that can happen to anyone nowadays is not being able to use your phone or laptop because you forgot to charge them overnight! In this case, make sure to carry your laptop charger and a portable charger for your phone.
- deodorant and body spray
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Imagine this: you’ve been running around campus all day in extremely hot temperatures and you’re starting to smell…. not so fresh. On top of that, you are meeting with someone important later in the day, but you don’t have time to run back to your dorm and freshen up. Needless to say, we’ve all been there! That’s why I like to carry around travel-sized bottles of body spray and deodorant. You never know when you might need it!
- snacks
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I’m the type of person to schedule classes, events, and meetings without giving myself ample time to take a break and eat. Eating is arguably the most important thing for a college student. Not only does food make us happy, but it also gives us the energy and ability to successfully get through every day. If you’re anything like me, it’s best to carry around granola bars or other snacks in your backpack. jThat way, when you have some time to yourself, you can take a break and eat!