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FRESHMAN YEAR COLLEGE SUPPLY CHECKLIST

What You Need for Class: Freshman Year College Supply Guide. Do you have your college supply list ready yet?

If not, you’re not alone! Unlike in grade school, universities and community colleges don’t typically provide an official list of supplies to bring.

This often leaves incoming freshmen asking: What school supplies do I actually need for college?

Transitioning from high school to college comes with its fair share of uncertainties, and this is definitely one of them. But don’t worry—I’ve got you covered!

In this post, I’ll outline all the essential supplies you’ll need for class and provide a handy, printable freshman college supply list. With this guide, you can start your first semester of college feeling organized and prepared!

What Supplies Do I Need for College?

Starting college can feel like stepping into a whole new world. If you’re feeling anxious or uncertain, don’t worry—that’s totally normal!

Many freshmen share common fears about this big transition, and one of the biggest is not being prepared enough.

As a current college student myself, I know how hectic the weeks leading up to college can be. With everything on your plate, it’s easy to forget about the supplies you need to thrive academically.

But don’t stress—you’ve landed here for a reason! This guide will ease some of your worries and help you check off one of the most important things on your to-do list: getting prepared for class.

Below, I’ll break down 17 essential school supplies every college freshman needs, along with some top recommendations to help you stay organized and ready to tackle your studies!

School Supplies for College List

PENCILS AND ERASERS

Pencils and erasers are number ONE on my college supply list because you’ll use them daily—whether you’re jotting down notes or filling out forms.

While pens might be your go-to writing tool, you’ll definitely need at least one pencil for things like filling out scantrons and multiple-choice tests.

As for the type of pencil, it doesn’t really matter if you choose mechanical or traditional—it’s all about what feels most comfortable for you. Just make sure you have extra lead if you opt for mechanical pencils!

And let’s face it: Mistakes happen. That’s where erasers come in. You’ll definitely want a reliable one for those inevitable missteps!

BLACK/BLUE AND RED INK PENS

Red and black pens may seem like basic supplies, but trust me—they’ve come through for me more times than I can count!

From peer editing to jotting quick notes, they’re versatile tools you’ll find yourself reaching for often.

At my college, professors prefer assignments to be written in black ink, though this may vary depending on your school. It’s always a good idea to check any specific preferences your professors have.

While many students take notes on their laptops, research has shown that writing by hand can help with memory retention. Something to consider when deciding how to organize your notes—handwriting could give you the edge!

HIGHLIGHTERS OR MILDLINERS

It’s no surprise that highlighters (or Mildliners, if you’re into the pastel, aesthetic vibe) make the list of must-haves for college.

With all the reading and homework you’ll be tackling, these tools will quickly become your best friends. They’re perfect for marking key points in textbooks, highlighting important details in notes, or simply making study sessions more organized.

Trust me, when it’s crunch time and you need to quickly review, you’ll be so glad you have them! I know I always am.

FOLDERS

Honestly, you’re going to get so many handouts in college—it can be overwhelming trying to keep track of them all!

To stay organized, grab a couple of folders. I recommend opting for plastic folders, as they’re more durable than paper ones and can withstand spills or wear and tear. A good plastic folder can last you throughout your entire college career!

A tip: Clearly label each folder on the front with the class name or subject. This simple step will save you time when you’re digging through your backpack looking for a specific paper.

For even more organization, consider color coordinating your notebooks, binder, and folders for each class. It’s an easy way to keep things in order and make sure you’re never caught off guard when you need a particular handout!

BINDER/S OR ACCORDION

Another essential for your college supply list is a binder or accordion folder—both are fantastic ways to keep track of and organize all the papers you’ll accumulate throughout the semester.

Some students prefer having a separate binder or folder for each class, while others like to keep everything in one place. It really depends on what works best for you, but I’d suggest starting with less rather than more.

You can always buy more after the semester starts if you need them, and it’s a lot easier to avoid unnecessary clutter in the meantime. Keeping things simple and organized will save you time and stress when you’re searching for that one assignment or syllabus!

PAPER AND BINDER

You’ve got to have a way to control all that loose leaf paper, right? That’s where binder clips come in.

I use them all the time to keep important papers organized, like homework assignments I’ve started or the instructions I need to refer to. They’re perfect for keeping everything neatly together and preventing any loose sheets from getting lost in the shuffle.

And when it’s time to turn in a big project or a stack of papers, binder clips are a lifesaver. They help you present your work neatly and keep everything intact—definitely a must-have for staying organized!

STICKY NOTES

Next up on the school supplies for college list are sticky notes—a must-have for anyone who might be a little forgetful (guilty over here!).

I use sticky notes as colorful reminders for tasks, assignments, or things I need to follow up on. They’re also great for jotting quick notes or highlighting important points in textbooks without actually writing in them.

Flag sticky notes are especially helpful for marking your place in a book or emphasizing key information you’ll need to revisit later. They make organizing and studying so much easier! Plus, they add a little pop of color to your study materials.

SCOTCH TAPE AND SCISSORS

As a college student, tape and scissors will come in handy more often than you might think!

Whether you’re working on projects, need to fix a torn paper, or just find yourself in a situation where something needs to be cut or taped down, having these supplies on hand will save you time and hassle.

Trust me, you’ll be thanking yourself later when you realize you need them, and they’re not hard to pack. So, add a roll of tape and a pair of scissors to your list—you won’t regret it!

NOTEBOOKS

Notebooks are a must-have for taking notes, journaling, or brainstorming ideas.

I’m sure you already figured you’d need these for college, but it’s always reassuring to have that confirmed, right? 😊

How many notebooks you need depends on how much you prefer to write by hand, but a good rule of thumb is to get one spiral notebook per class. This keeps everything organized, and you won’t risk mixing up your notes from different subjects. Plus, having dedicated notebooks for each class makes studying a lot easier when it’s time to review!

FLASH DRIVE

If it wasn’t obvious, much of college work is done digitally these days. From assignments to presentations, you’ll often need to store and share files.

That’s why a portable flash drive is a must-have for your freshman college supply list. When it’s time to print a paper or present in class, you’ll be glad you have one to easily transport your work.

Make sure to grab one before classes start—many students forget this essential item, and it can be a lifesaver when you need to save or transfer files quickly!

ACADEMIC PLANNER

A planner should be a top priority on your college supply list. Whether you used one in high school or not, I highly recommend getting an academic planner for college.

With everything going on—classes, assignments, tests, work, and social life—it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Personally, I find it impossible to keep track of everything without some help. That’s where a planner comes in handy.

I use mine to keep track of my class schedule, important due dates, upcoming test dates, work schedule, personal appointments, and more. It’s an absolute lifesaver that keeps everything organized and helps me stay on top of my busy life.

Trust me, a good planner will make your college life feel so much more put together. I can’t recommend it enough!

WITE-OUT

Let’s face it—none of us are perfect, and mistakes happen. That’s why White-Out is a college essential you’ll want to have on hand.

It’s super useful when you’re working on tests where only pen is allowed, or if you notice a spelling error in your essay just before you’re about to turn it in. White-Out can save you from those last-minute panics and help you present your work without a hitch.

Trust me, it’s one of those small supplies that’ll come in clutch more than once during your college journey!

LOOSE LEAF PAPER

This one’s definitely a no-brainer—loose leaf paper is a must-have for your college supply list! Like pencils, it’ll get daily use in almost every class.

While most notebooks come with perforated paper, some instructors prefer cleaner edges, especially when you’re turning in assignments or writing notes. To be fully prepared, it’s a good idea to get some extra loose leaf paper in addition to your notebooks.

Having this on hand ensures you’re ready for anything, whether it’s last-minute notes, assignments, or just a quick jot of an idea during class!

BACKPACK

Yes, you still need a backpack for college!

Especially if your campus is large and your classes are back-to-back, you’ll need something to carry all your books, supplies, and possibly your laptop. There are usually no lockers, and no time to run back to your car between classes, so having a sturdy backpack is essential.

If you’re bringing a laptop with you, make sure to choose a backpack that’s specifically designed for carrying one. The last thing you want is for your laptop to get damaged—replacing it is not cheap!

Look for a laptop backpack with a padded sleeve for extra protection, and consider one that’s water-resistant for that added peace of mind. You’ll be carrying it around a lot, so it’s worth investing in something that keeps your gear safe and secure!

CALCULATOR

Will you be taking any math classes or other courses that require calculations? If so, a calculator definitely needs to be on your college supply list.

Sure, you might have one on your phone, but keep in mind that phones aren’t allowed during most exams or tests, especially in math-heavy courses. Having a dedicated calculator will save you from scrambling at the last minute.

That being said, it’s a good idea to check with your instructor before purchasing one—some may have brand or model preferences. And if you’re lucky, you might even be able to score a calculator from a graduating student at a great price!

Laptop

As a college student, you will basically live on your laptop.

From researching assignments, writing papers, and communicating with instructors, your laptop will become your essential tool for everything academic and beyond. It’s a must-have in today’s digital age!

Important tip: Before you buy a laptop, make sure it meets the requirements for your college courses. Some programs or majors (like engineering or graphic design) may require specific software that needs a more powerful machine, so double-check the specs to ensure it can run everything you’ll need.

Personally, the laptop I use has been amazing—it meets all my needs and even doubles as a tablet. It’s versatile and portable, which is exactly what you need for college life!

SMALL STAPLER

We may be living in a digital age, but not everything in college is submitted online. Some assignments still require the “old-fashioned” method—on actual paper.

That’s where a mini stapler comes in handy. It’s saved me more than a few times when I’ve had to submit papers or projects in person. You never know when you’ll need to staple your work together, and having one in your backpack ensures you’re always prepared.

You can easily pick one up for cheap at stores like The Dollar Store, Target, or Walmart—a small investment for big peace of mind!

CONCLUSION

Preparing for your freshman year can be overwhelming, but with the right supplies, you’ll feel more confident and ready to take on college life. From essentials like notebooks and pens to the must-have tech gear like a laptop and flash drive, having the right tools will help you stay organized, productive, and prepared for anything.

Remember, everyone’s needs are different, and you can always adjust your list as you go. But starting with these college essentials will give you a solid foundation for a successful first year.

20 BEST VEGETABLES TO GROW IN A SMALL RAISED BED

Growing plants in raised beds is a fantastic idea with numerous benefits. Once you decide to use raised beds, the next question is which vegetables to grow in your garden.

There are many vegetable options to choose from, but your selection should be based on factors such as available space, location, sunlight, temperature, water supply, and climate.

For instance, some plants thrive in warm weather, while others prefer cooler conditions. It’s essential to choose vegetables that can adapt to your local climate. Similarly, certain plants require more water, so if you live in a dry region, it’s best to avoid those that need constant moisture.

LENTIL

Lentils are small in size, allowing you to cultivate them in large quantities with the right conditions. They thrive in moist, well-drained, nutrient-rich soil and require 6 to 8 hours of full sun daily. If your soil isn’t ideal, lentils can be successfully grown in raised beds, provided they are 8 to 10 inches high. Consistent watering is essential for maintaining healthy plants. Lentils take approximately 100 days to reach maturity and can be stored as dry beans or grains for up to one year.

CELERY

If you have patience, you can grow celery in a raised bed, as it takes about 160 days to mature. Before planting, soak the seeds in water using trays, and prepare the soil by mixing in compost and fertilizer. Celery requires ample water to keep the stalks tender and prevent hardness. Once harvested, it can be stored in the refrigerator for two weeks to a month.

BASIL

Basil is an easy-to-grow plant that thrives in hot weather. It requires moist, well-drained soil and at least six hours of full sun daily. Choosing the right location with these conditions ensures healthy growth. Regular watering is key to maximizing yield, and in particularly hot climates, daily watering is essential to keep the plant thriving.

KALE

Kale is a cold-loving, easy-to-grow plant that thrives in well-drained, fertile soil. It can be planted in spring or summer, with harvest time falling in the fall or early winter, depending on when it was planted. Like all plants, kale requires nutrient-rich soil, with a particular need for nitrogen and potassium, so regular fertilization throughout the growing season is beneficial. Once the plant reaches a height of 6 to 7 inches (15 to 18 cm), you can begin harvesting its leaves.

BEET

Beets are frost-tolerant, making them ideal for planting in early spring or fall. To ensure optimal growth, they require high-quality soil that is nutrient-rich, moist, and well-drained. If planting in raised beds, ensure the bed has sufficient depth. It’s important to keep the soil moist without overwatering, and applying a layer of mulch can help reduce weeds and lower soil temperature.

For the best flavor, harvest the beets when the roots are still small, as they tend to be sweeter at this stage. Don’t forget the beet greens—they are edible and packed with nutrients, and you can harvest them anytime throughout the growing season.

SPINACH

Spinach is a cold-loving plant, making it ideal for planting in spring or fall. It’s a low-maintenance vegetable that doesn’t require much attention, but the soil should be well-drained and free from clay.

If you’re new to gardening, spinach is a great choice, as it’s easy to grow even with little experience. Harvest the leaves when they’re large enough to eat, as they can become bitter if left too long. Spinach isn’t limited to in-ground garden beds—you can also grow it successfully in raised beds.

BROCCOLI

Broccoli is an easy-to-grow vegetable that thrives in cold weather. To ensure good production, create a broccoli-friendly environment by enriching the soil with compost and manure, as broccoli needs plenty of nutrients.

The ideal soil temperature should be around 4.5°C (40°F). If the plant is lacking nutrients, the leaves will show signs—such as turning yellow when there’s a nitrogen deficiency—which helps identify the problem.

Make sure to water the plant consistently. When it’s time to harvest, pay attention to the color of the broccoli head. If it starts turning yellow or black, it indicates the plant has passed its peak harvest time.

PEAS

Peas are a fast-growing crop, though their growing season is quite short. Before planting peas in raised beds, enrich the soil with manure and fertilizers. They need 4 to 8 hours of sunlight and should be watered regularly, but avoid overwatering to prevent excessive moisture in the soil.

Harvest the pea pods when they reach the desired size. The best time to pick them is in the morning, as this is when they have the best flavor.

PEPPER

Peppers grow well in raised beds and come in a variety of types, from sweet bell peppers to hot peppers. When preparing your bed for planting, be sure to mix the soil with high-quality natural fertilizer. Peppers are sun-loving plants that thrive in well-drained, nutrient-rich soil and require regular watering.

Although peppers need consistent moisture, be mindful not to overwater. It’s important to water them daily. While you can grow peppers indoors, they should not be transplanted from indoors to outdoors. Start planting before the last frost. When the peppers reach your desired size, harvest them using a sharp pair of scissors.

CUCUMBER

Cucumbers thrive in hot weather and prefer moist soil rich in nutrients. Choose a raised bed location that receives full sun for optimal growth. You can ensure the necessary nutrients by mixing the soil with compost and fertilizer.

Since cucumbers cannot tolerate frost, avoid planting them if frost is still a concern. You can plant cucumbers with seeds or seedlings about one inch deep. Regular watering is crucial for maintaining the sweet flavor of cucumbers; if the soil dries out, it can harm your plants.

TOMATO

Tomatoes thrive in the spring and summer, and they do well in pots and raised beds. Since tomatoes can become heavy as they grow, extra support is necessary to prevent them from collapsing. There are various tomato varieties, so it’s important to choose one that offers a quick and easy yield.

If you’re working with limited space or a smaller raised bed, cherry tomatoes are a great choice, as they produce flavorful fruit in just one season. To ensure healthy tomatoes, provide rich, nutrient-dense soil, mix in compost and fertilizers, and ensure they receive 6 to 8 hours of full sunlight. Regular watering, especially when baby tomatoes begin to develop, is also crucial.

RADISH

Radishes are an excellent choice for beginners, as they can be harvested within a month of planting with consistent sunlight and moderate watering. They can thrive in any type of soil.

Since radishes are deep-rooted plants, make sure to space them 2 to 3 inches apart. Choose a location for your raised bed where they can get plenty of sunlight. Additionally, the greens of the radish are also edible, so after harvesting, be sure to cut off the greens and save them for cooking.

BEAN

Beans require moderate maintenance, but they can be challenging for beginners due to the potential pests that may affect them. These plants need a vigilant gardener to ensure proper care. Make sure to provide well-balanced soil and regular watering to help your bean plants thrive and absorb all the necessary nutrients.

Once the pods are firm and large, it’s time to harvest. If the beans are larger, it’s helpful to train them on a trellis for support, allowing them to climb easily. Smaller beans do not require any support.

CORN

Corn is a fast-growing vegetable that you can grow in large quantities, but it has specific requirements. It thrives in heavily fertilized soil, needs regular watering, and should be planted in the spring. Corn cannot be grown indoors and should be planted outdoors.

While you can plant corn in raised beds, it does require extra attention. Be sure to leave enough space between the plants for proper growth. Regular watering is essential to maintain soil moisture and keep your corn plants healthy.

MINT

Growing mint in raised beds is incredibly easy, and it requires minimal maintenance. Mint plants can be cut back at any time, as they tend to spread quickly. One unique feature of mint is that you can propagate it from clippings, even growing them in a simple glass of water.

There’s no need to wait for a specific harvesting time, but the best flavor comes from picking the leaves when they are young. You can harvest mint at any point, and the fresh leaves will enhance the flavor of your dishes, often used in dressings and sauces. Mint also offers various health benefits, with hot mint tea being particularly helpful for soothing the stomach and relieving anxiety.

POTATOES

Potatoes are a beloved vegetable, especially among children, and growing them in raised beds can provide a fresh, free supply for your kitchen. To grow healthy potatoes, make sure they receive full sun, are planted in rich, slightly acidic soil, and are kept well-watered for optimal growth.

Timing is crucial when planting potatoes, as they cannot tolerate extreme cold. Aim to plant them before the last significant frost of the season. While different varieties may take longer to mature, most potatoes typically require about two to three months to reach maturity.

SUMMER SQUASH

Summer squash cannot tolerate frost, so it’s important to plant it when the risk of frost has passed. For optimal growth, ensure your plants get appropriate sunlight, and the soil has good drainage, is moist, weed-free, and fertile. Plant the seeds several weeks before the last spring frost, once the soil has warmed up.

You can easily plant summer squash by directly sowing seeds or using seedlings. Prior to planting in raised beds, mix compost into the soil to enrich it, and fertilize as needed throughout the growing season. Summer squash typically takes about 2-3 months to reach maturity.

CARROTS

Carrots are deep-rooted vegetables, so it’s important to choose raised beds with enough height to allow their roots to grow properly. While root vegetables are typically grown in the ground, raised beds offer better control over growing conditions and soil fertility.

Carrots prefer well-draining soil, and adding sand can help improve soil texture, as they thrive in sandy conditions. Plant the seeds about 3-4 inches apart, and keep the soil moist during the first week for the best yield. Carrots usually take 70 to 80 days to mature, and once they reach this point, they’re ready to harvest and enjoy.

ONION

Onions are easy to grow, and planting them in raised beds makes the process even simpler. Typically, onions can be harvested within 100 days. They need rich, well-drained soil, plenty of sunlight, and only a little moisture, as they are a spring plant.

While onions are easy to grow, they do require some care. Nitrogen is crucial for their growth, so make sure to add nitrogen fertilizer every 3-4 weeks to keep the plants healthy.

Onions don’t need constant moisture, but providing consistent watering can enhance their flavor. Apply a mulch layer and water regularly. When the top of the onion turns yellow, it’s time to harvest. This color change indicates that the onion is ready to be pulled from the soil.

LETTUCE

Lettuce is a must-have in salads and an essential garnish for burgers and sandwiches. For healthy growth, it’s important to focus on the fertility of the soil, as lettuce requires fertilization. However, your efforts will be well worth it.

Lettuce is versatile and can thrive in both fall and spring, so you don’t have to worry too much about the season. It prefers partial sun and will reach maturity within 2-3 months.

To ensure healthy growth, fertilize the soil every week, and adding compost is a great idea. Lettuce thrives in cool soil, and regular watering is key. Keep the soil moist and use mulch to maintain moisture. On hot days, lettuce needs shade, so choose the right spot for your raised bed based on this requirement.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, a small raised bed garden can be a surprisingly productive space, capable of yielding a diverse and delicious harvest. By carefully selecting varieties suited to compact spaces and prioritizing succession planting, even the most novice gardener can enjoy a continuous supply of fresh, homegrown vegetables. This list of 20 top contenders, from crisp lettuces and vibrant radishes to flavorful tomatoes and versatile peppers, offers a great starting point for designing your own miniature garden oasis.