10 Things a College Student Needs

Here are some of the things I ended up wanting or needing my freshman year of college. There are lists upon lists of things the average incoming college freshman needs for college, but here are some different items that can improve your first year.

1. Hammock

Whether it is to create a quick outdoor study spot or to catch some Zs and vitamin D, a hammock is a fun, cozy way to get away from the dorm room and relax. Hammocks have an attached bag on them that allows you to stuff it into a compact size for easy storage. Most sports stores carry them with the price point ranging from $20-$70.

2. Echo Dot

When it came to setting alarms hands free, playing music, asking what time it was as I rushed to make it to class on time, or asking questions as I did homework this tiny little home assistant was a lifesaver. Not only did I love it, but my roommate and friends did as well. When someone wanted to show the group an "amazing song they heard" they could have us listen to it instantly by just telling the echo the title.

3. Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker

When it came to music, I wanted something quick and easy that would either connect to my phone or my Echo Dot. A small Bluetooth speaker with just the right amount of kick to it was all I needed for showers and spending time outside with friends.

4. A 'Polaroid' Camera

A camera that instantly prints out photos is not only beautifully nostalgic, but a great way to decorate your dorm room with memories throughout the year.

5. Tapestry or Large Flag

This is a quick and easy way to add character and color to your dorm room. There are so many options online that will fit any student. I had a massive tapestry that was hung by three command strips (and never fell!). It helped liven up the dorm and did not leave my roommate and me with a bare, white wall. Many girls on the floor liked the idea so much that they ended up buying their own tapestries.

6. A Microwaveable Bowl With Lid

This may seem odd at first, but if you have a microwave in your room these bowls are miracle workers. The snaps keep the lid in place and keep all splatter inside the bowl. I made soup, macaroni and cheese, and oatmeal in mine. This helped me avoid the community kitchen which was almost always a dirty disaster thanks to the other residents. This bowl let me have a quick, easy, and warm meal if I was not up to going to the cafeteria or if it was closed.

7. Humidifier

Let's face it, some dorms are not as glamorous as others. The climate of the room is sometimes left up to the student. A humidifier helps keep the room's climate more comfortable and avoids making it dry and stuffy.

8. Closet Space Savers

Anything that can save you space in your new small dorm closet is a must-have.

9. A Good Laptop Case

Your laptop needs protection. Either a sleeve or hard case that goes directly onto the laptop ensures that, if an accident were to happen, it is less likely to be damaged.

10. An Amazon Prime Account

Amazon Prime is a great place to order textbooks, more food, or any other thing that a college student may run into needing. With free shipping, music, and video for a discounted student subscription price, you cannot pass up Prime.