Back to school means many things for a typical college student. The upcoming days will be consumed with cramming, eating dining hall sushi, and an unhealthy consumption of caffeine. However, before truly getting back into a regimented routine of club meetings and homework there are some essentials that are necessary for starting the school year off on a positive note.
1. A Planner
Whether it is a trendy Lily Pulitzer day planner or an app on your iPhone to be successful you must manage your time. Having your assignments and test dates written out will allow you to allocate ample time to prepare. Nicole Gallagher, a sophomore psychology student says, “Using a planner throughout the year allows me to not fall behind with my school work.” My advice is to utilize the tentative calendar in your syllabi and mark down the important dates in each class. Life has the tendency to be very disorganized and any efforts you can put towards organization will only better your life.
2. A Computer
In the technologically advanced world that we live in it is crucial to have a computer to not only get you work done but to communicate with others. Being technologically literate in our modern society is a basic life skill. Conducting research, writing papers and communicating with your fellow classmates and professors requires a computer.
3. A New Pair of Shoes
Start the year off on the right foot with a new pair of shoes literally. Ensure that your shoes are good condition. As college students, we are constantly walking from class to class on campus. Between all of your tests and assignments, the last thing you need is for your feet to be in pain. Cushion your steps this year with some new kicks.
4. On the Go Foods or Snacks
A typical college student’s day is hectic at times there is not even enough time to make it to the dining hall or if you are a commuter you might not even have a meal plan. Carrying around foods and snacks such as peanut butter and jelly, granola bars, and yogurt will help you stay energized and alert throughout your busy day. During a lecture, there isn’t anything more distracting then having your stomach make some questionable sounds. Tierney Rosen, a junior psychology student shared her routine, “I try to always have a granola bar and at least two water bottles on me during the day. I usually will eat my granola bar between classes to stay energized.” Also, always try to have water on you. Staying hydrated is vital to your health and many of us do not drink nearly as much water as we should.
5. A Mini Stapler
Many professors insist that when you turn in a paper or assignment it must be stapled. Some consider your work late if you hand it in not stapled. Therefore, always having a stapler on hand will help you to be prepared to hand in all of your work.
6. Clothing for the Cold
New Jersey is known for having some brutally cold weather, and although Monmouth is nearby the beach, we have many limited sunny days when we head back to West Long Branch. Jackets, scarves, hats, and gloves are essential to surviving those bitterly cold winter days on campus. Fortunately, there is still some time before we really have to start bundling up.
7. Yearly Objectives
Head back to school with an idea of what you would like to accomplish. Having these written down or acknowledged will drive you towards your goals for this year. Formulating your aspirations is your first step towards achieving them.
8. A Willingness to Learn
Professor Sanford, a tenure associate communications professor, and assistant chair shares her wisdom, “Have a growth mindset as opposed to a fixed mindset. Be open to learning new things and challenging yourself.” Realize that you are attending Monmouth to get an education not only just a degree. It is essential to be open to failure when starting the semester in hopes to better yourself.
With some of these essentials on hand, you should be able to successfully start the semester. I wish my fellow Hawks success as we soar through this semester while utilizing some of these back to school essentials.
PHOTO COURTESY of Jamilah McMillan
