Since March, most college students have experienced the shift to online learning. While some students are back on campus, I am one of the students who gets to stay home and because of that I am preparing myself to experience another semester of virtual learning. As someone who took online classes during the latter half of the Spring semester and the entire Summer semester, I have dubbed myself ‘Master of Virtual Learning’! Now, it is my duty to inform all of my collegiate sisters of some items that I think every virtual learner should have to succeed.
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Planner
Coming in at number 1, is an academic year planner. I have been a die-hard believer of using a planner since sixth grade. Purchasing one each year is as important to me as buying new back-to-school clothes. As the workload will increase over the school year, planners help to keep me organized, calm, and prepared. Need help choosing one? Here are some options.
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Lap Desk
I am a strong believer in having a separate work and rest space but some days I want to WFB, work from bed. A lap desk reduces the heat that is transmitted from your body, promotes good posture while looking at the screen, and allows you to relax your body in different angles while still being able to work efficiently. Shop a few different ones here.
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Blue Light Glasses
Blue light glasses have become a must-have for many during this virtual learning and work period. They are protective glasses that help to filter out harmful blue light that is emitted from screens. Since I can be stationary in front of my computer for a few hours at a time, I wanted to take the proper steps to protect my eyes. These glasses have a surface coating on the lens that help to block the blue light. A personal favorite can be found here.
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Essential Oil Diffuser
Essential oil diffusers are devices that are used to disperse essential oils into the air. Explore different oil scents including lavender, peppermint, and lemon. Lavender and peppermint promotes relaxation and lemon raises energy levels. These oils will help while you’re sitting at a desk for long periods of time. Other oil scents range from orange, lemongrass, cinnamon, and eucalyptus. Check out some here.
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Sweatsuit
Nothing is more crucial to the success of a virtual student than comfiness. This starts with your attire. A comfortable sweat suit is appropriate in class, can be worn for a quick nap, and is perfect for running outside to get a midday snack. Here are some cute choices.
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Cardigan
Since we are on the theme of comfiness, another important item to have is a long cardigan. A cozy cardigan is key for relaxing in your bedroom, library, or study. As we begin to ease into the winter months, keeping a cardigan handy will help you to stay focused and not lose track of your work.
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Fuzzy Slippers
Where can you go wrong with this one? Fuzzy slippers are perfect for moving around the house while staying comfortable. I love to get up and walk around my house in between classes and these are the best for doing so.
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Activewear
These past few months have unleashed an unhealthy amount of snacking and it can all be seen on my stomach, which led me to start exercising more. Physical activity has a positive impact on cognitive skills and also improves your classroom behavior. Take a look at a few here.
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Yoga Mat
To go off of my last point about the benefits of exercise, it is just as important to protect yourself while working out. If you have hardwood floors or are exercising outside, a yoga mat can help to reduce the strain of your joints during high-intensity workouts. It also helps you to have a higher level of comfort and security during workouts. A good option can be found here.
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School Sweater
The final must-have on my list is your school sweater! Just because we are at home doesn’t mean we can’t rep our schools. Wearing school swag at home is a great motivator for when I get distracted or begin to doubt myself. It also helps me to think about all of the fun times that I had on campus at football games, basketball games, and pep rallies. Look out for some of your school’s apparel here or check your university’s bookstore’s website.
I hope that all of these options help you to navigate this next semester and land a 4.0! Whether you are on campus or at home, it’s up to you to determine how you do. Rely on those who you trust and don’t be afraid to splurge for a few of the items on this list if they’ll help your productivity.