If I’ve learned anything in my twenty years, it is the importance of coming prepared. Backpacks fit nicely into this realm of preparedness. I like to have certain things on me at all times so that I am ready to take on whatever life throws at me. So to help you stay prepared I’ve compiled a list of 11 things I don’t go to school without.
1. Planner
If you don’t have a planner — honey, you need one! New events or tasks could present themselves at any time and our brains are not always the most reliable calendars. It would be a shame to miss an important deadline simply because you didn’t keep up your schedule. Being forgetful is no excuse: you gotta know what’s up!
2. Pencil Case
I hand write my notes: I always have and I probably always will. So I like to have multiple pens, pencils, highlighters and whiteout. A pencil case is the student’s toolbox. A lot of people have shifted to rely entirely on technology, but for those who still prefer a more tangible experience, a fully stocked pencil case is essential.
3. Mints
Bad breath isn’t sexy. At least, that’s what the advertisements on the bus tell me — and I have yet to meet someone who believes bad breath is sexy or even acceptable. Keep your breath fresh, because you never know who you’ll be conversing with. I like to use mints over gum as the flavour lasts longer and it is subtler to consume mints than chew gum.
4. Hand Sanitizer
Networking is an inevitable part of university — and networking means handshakes. I’m not talking secret best friend handshakes: I’m talking formal handshakes. Clean hands are just as important as fresh breath. If you’re someone who is always on the go, hand sanitizer is a life saver.
5. Lip Chap
Chapped lips are an undesirable part of winter, but they can be treated. I would recommend Vaseline, Blistex or Burt’s Bees. Don’t let the harsh winter weather catch you off guard. I never leave home without lip chap.
6. Floss
Floss is often overlooked but if you are someone who is consistently out of the house for long periods of time, you should have floss. Floss sticks are a great tool to keep easily accessible for after every meal and snack. Smile confidently knowing that the spinach from your lunchtime wrap is a thing of the past.
7. Kleenex
Kleenex is great to have on hand, especially in the cold weather. A runny nose can’t really be predicted, so it’s best to be prepared.
8. Elastics
If you care to avoid messy hair, always have elastics. Elastics allow you to transform your hair from a mess into a braid, a bun or even a ponytail. If you’re anything like me, you change your mind and your hair multiple times a day.
9. Body Spray
If you hit up the gym between classes, body spray will allow you to stay fresh. Even if you don’t hit up the gym, it doesn’t hurt to freshen up throughout the day. That being said, deodorant is also nice to have on hand.
10. Chargers
Don’t be left without a phone or laptop. Chargers are a must for any technology you are taking out and about. In this day and age, it’s almost expected that you can be reached at almost all times.
11. Compact Mirror
A small portable mirror makes it easier to check your teeth, makeup, etc., on the down-low. A compact mirror is a subtle tool everyone should have in their toolbox.
There are many keys to success and there is no denying the fact that preparation is one of the most important.