1. Pens/Pencils
You don’t want to be THAT person who always asks to “borrow” a pencil, only to forget and never return it. Make sure you have a writing utensil (or three) before every class, that way you don’t risk the shame of not being able to take notes.
2. Notebook/Textbook
Forgetting your notebook is akin to forgetting how to write because both will leave you unable to take notes. And making sure you have the required textbooks with you is similar to making sure you remember to breath – both should be things that just happen instinctively.
3. Caffeine
Caffeine is important for all academic settings, but its necessity is raised when you’re running late for an 8am or when your professor has a monotone voice and a tendency to ramble. Always take some with you to class, whether it be a Starbucks latte, tea from your dorm, or a Red Bull your roommate handed you out of pity.
4. Rain jacket
Hawaiian weather is always gorgeous, but it is a bit unpredictable. Rain comes in short bursts, and it’s good to be prepared for any sudden change in precipitation. Keep a raincoat or umbrella in your backpack so you don’t get wet walking between classes.
5. Charger
If you ever have the misfortune of forgetting to charge your phone overnight, you’re going to want to do it midlecture. Not only would that give you the ability to use it immediately after class without worrying about it powering down, but charging your phone during class will also keep your desk space distraction-free, so it’s really a win-win situation.
Make sure you also find a cute bag to keep everything in!