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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.

HOW TO LOOK GOOD EVERYDAY AND BE A CHIC PIONEER

The saying “looking good is good business” holds a lot of truth. Your appearance, scent, and personality leave a lasting impression on those you encounter, making it essential to present yourself well at all times. To achieve this, it’s important to know how to look your best every day. Your looks convey a lot about who you are, your interests, and your values.

A 2005 study conducted by the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis revealed a surprising finding: attractive and well-dressed individuals earn approximately 5% more per hour than their less stylish colleagues.

This suggests that good-looking people often have access to more lucrative opportunities, resulting in higher earnings compared to those who dress more casually.

Certain physical traits and attire can project an aura of responsibility, confidence, and self-assuredness, which in turn enhances communication skills and productivity in the workplace. Curious about the secret to consistently looking vibrant and beautiful? Let’s delve into it in our article below!

LEARN MORE ABOUT FASHION AND DRESS CODES/STYLES

If you want to look good every day, you need to learn about fashion. Many people don’t look as good as they would like because they don’t know how to choose outfits, mix colors, or follow the basic rules of fashion.

One of the first steps to looking good is to educate yourself about clothing, makeup, shoes, and everything else related to style. You can do this by reading fashion magazines, browsing fashion blogs, watching fashion shows, and even checking out movies.

These activities will help you discover different styles and keep up with fashion trends so you can use them to your advantage!

Having knowledge is empowering. It helps you do more with less. When you understand which combinations work well, you can create great outfits even if your wardrobe is limited.

Do some research on suitable clothing and color combinations, or anything you’re unsure about. The next time you look at your closet, you’ll be surprised by how many stylish outfits you can create with just a few items.

The key to learning how to look good every day is to grasp the basics. If you don’t know how to dress well, it will be difficult to look fabulous.

GROOM YOURSELF

The little details matter a lot when it comes to looking good. Did you know that having short nails can make you seem neat and organized?

Taking care of your nails shows that you are responsible and serious, and it’s easy to do. Just keep your nails short, clean, and dry. If you like long nails, make sure they stay clean and tidy.

Learn to shape your nails and keep them from breaking by using a nail file. Avoid biting your nails or picking at your cuticles. If you prefer professional help, treat yourself to regular manicures and pedicures.

Your hair is important, too. Wash it regularly with a gentle shampoo and use conditioner. Try not to use too much heat or style it excessively.

Take care of your hair as you would with a special piece of clothing. Healthy hair is valuable; it’s like your natural crown.

MAINTAIN GOOD HYGIENE

Good personal hygiene can greatly improve your appearance. Hygiene means keeping your body clean, healthy, and free from germs. It is important for your overall health.

Poor hygiene can lead to diseases and health problems caused by harmful germs and bacteria. Your hygiene plays a big role in how you look and smell. When you keep your body clean, you look and smell better.

Good hygiene helps you avoid body odors, bad breath, and other issues that can come from not being clean. Most people who look great put in extra effort to maintain good hygiene.

To look your best, you need to be intentional about your hygiene. Make sure to do regular tasks like shaving, brushing your teeth, trimming your nails, and taking showers!

Try to shower at least twice a day, brush your teeth in the morning and before bed, and avoid letting dirty laundry pile up. Don’t wear your underwear more than twice, and keep your living space clean.

BE DIFFERENT. EXPERIMENT AND TRY OUT NEW OPTIONS

As you learn to look good every day, make sure to include your creativity and uniqueness in your outfits. You don’t always have to follow the rules to look great.

Many of today’s fashion trends came from people trying to be creative, spontaneous, and innovative, which meant breaking some rules.

So, be different, be yourself, and express your style. Try to guess how different colors might look when paired together.

Experiment with new clothing combinations and see how good they look on you. Don’t be afraid to join in on current fashion trends. Fashion is beautiful because it allows you to express yourself and be original while also letting you be spontaneous.

Explore new accessories you haven’t tried before and discover different styles and ways to dress. One easy way to find your unique style is to experiment with clothes until you discover what works best for you.

HIGHLIGHT YOUR BEST FEATURES

Everyone has a unique physical trait that makes them stand out from the crowd. One way to look good every day is to discover your unique features and highlight them when you dress.

To do this, start by studying yourself. Get a notepad and write down some information. What parts of your body make you different? Is it your height? Do people compliment your legs? Once you identify at least three unique traits, you can start to emphasize them. If you have beautiful lips, using glossy lipstick and makeup can draw attention to that feature.

If you have abs or curves, wearing clothes that showcase those curves can help you look great every day. If you’re unsure what your strengths are, here’s a simple way to find out: when you have some free time, write down at least five things about your body that stand out to you.

A good clue is to think about what parts people often talk about or compliment. After identifying these features, go shopping for clothes and accessories that highlight them. Then, experiment with different outfits and pay attention to how people react.

When you start getting more compliments about those features, you’ll know you’ve found what works for you! Make sure to show off those traits every time you dress up, and watch how people notice your good looks.

BE COMFORTABLE IN YOUR CLOTHES

When trying to look good and fashionable, never wear clothes that make you uncomfortable. It’s just not worth it. We wear clothes not only to look nice but also to cover ourselves and stay comfortable. Sometimes, we sacrifice comfort for style, which isn’t healthy. For instance, wearing tight clothes to look good can make you feel uneasy.

Choose clothes that fit you well. This goes for your accessories, shoes, and even makeup. If you don’t feel comfortable in sleeveless tops or clothes that show too much skin, it’s best to avoid them because they will only make you feel frustrated.

Think about wearing stilettos to an event where you might have to stand for a long time. Your feet will hurt, which isn’t good for you. The key to looking good is to be comfortable in whatever you wear, whether it’s jeans, brogue shoes, hats, or jackets.

Being comfortable in your clothes boosts your confidence and makes you feel good about yourself. The next time you’re getting ready to go out, take a moment to check your outfit. If something feels off, change it. There’s no point in looking great if you feel awkward.

REST AS MUCH AS YOU CAN

Rest may seem unimportant, but people who don’t get enough sleep often look worn out. Their tiredness can make them frown more, which doesn’t help their appearance.

When you lack sleep, you can look stressed, frustrated, and fatigued. People who don’t rest well often struggle to get things done and don’t look their best.

Getting enough rest also has many health benefits. Not sleeping enough can lead to dehydration and overeating, which can result in weight gain and other health issues.

Rebecca S. Robbins, M.D., Ph.D., a sleep expert at Cornell University, explains that sleep is essential for your brain. She told Cosmopolitan, “During a good night’s rest, your body works to remove dead blood cells and dead brain cells, and clears the pathways for new connections to form, allowing new blood and brain cells to replace old ones.”

Getting enough sleep helps prevent dark circles under your eyes. These circles can appear when you don’t sleep enough because your cells aren’t renewing properly. When you sleep, your blood vessels dilate, which helps avoid dark circles.

Sleep also keeps you hydrated and gives you a fresher, younger look. So, make time to rest well and stick to a regular sleep schedule. A well-rested body always looks better than one that is tired.

TAKE CARE OF YOUR BODY

Did you know that having a fit body makes you look more elegant? It really does! If you want to look your best, you need to take care of your body. And no, it’s not just about going to the gym.

Many people think that working out is the only way to care for their bodies. In reality, taking care of yourself involves everything from your diet to the cleanliness of your surroundings. Even your sleeping habits play a role.

To care for your body, you first need to understand it. This means knowing important details like your weight, height, skin tone, and clothing and shoe sizes.

Here are some ways to take care of your body:

  • Exercise regularly: Go for walks, jogs, or try activities like yoga and meditation. Don’t hesitate to hit the gym if you want to improve your fitness.
  • Eat well: Make sure your meals are balanced and avoid unhealthy habits like eating late. Eating more fruits and vegetables is essential. Try to avoid junk food and focus on fresh, whole meals. Good nutrition provides the nutrients your body needs.
  • Maintain good hygiene: Shower regularly to keep body odors away and moisturize your skin. Aim to shower at least twice a day—once in the morning and once before bed.
  • Use the right skincare products: Don’t just use any products on your skin. Consult a professional to find out which cosmetics, ointments, and creams are best for you. Poor skincare can lead to poor appearance!

The key to taking care of your body is to value it. You only take care of what you love, so make a commitment to look after your body properly.

SMILE OFTEN

Research shows that people who smile more tend to look better, especially in photos. Smiling has many benefits; it not only enhances your appearance but also makes you look happier, more confident, and successful.

People are naturally drawn to those who smile rather than those with negative expressions like scowls or frowns. Smiling is often associated with positive personality traits, making others perceive you more favorably.

Scientists have found that those who smile more seem to live happier, more fulfilling lives compared to those with blank expressions. Smiling can also make you look younger and boost your mood; you often feel better after smiling or laughing.

Even if someone is well-dressed, a frown can take away from their overall look. A smile can make a significant difference in how you present yourself.

So, as you wear your favorite denim jeans or trousers, remember to smile. Make an effort to smile every day, even when taking photos, and notice how it improves your appearance!

EXUDE CONFIDENCE

The trademark of a well-dressed individual is the confidence and personality that they exude. It is alright to be well dressed and look very attractive, but confidence pushes your appearance meter to a higher scale!

One of the keys to looking good every day is to know how to be confident in your clothes. It makes you look more attractive, stunning, and breathtaking to the opposite sex and leaves the impression of secure esteem and maturity.

Confident people usually appear successful and in control of their lives to others. 

Here are a few tips to help you look more confident:

  • Maintain eye contact during conversations.
  • Show a genuine interest in the people around you.
  • Avoid every and any form of negative self-talk. Nothing injures your esteem as much as a negative image of yourself. 
  • Also, stop worrying about what people think about you. People will always have opinions of what they think or perceive you to be. 
  • Practice the habit of reminding yourself of how great you are and how great you look. You are sure to look better when you have great esteem and exude confidence consistently.

MAINTAIN GOOD POSTURE TO IMPROVE YOUR LOOKS

Good posture, along with well-matched clothes, is like icing on a delicious cake! It may seem small, but maintaining good posture can greatly improve your appearance.

When you want to look your best, remember to pay attention to your posture.

Nina Strang, a physical therapist and expert in strength and conditioning, explains that “good posture is also known as neutral spine.” This means that when you have good posture, the muscles around your spine are balanced and support your body equally.

Here’s how to check your posture:

  • When sitting: Keep your feet flat on the floor with even weight on both hips. Your back should be mostly straight (with natural curves in your lower, middle, and upper back). Relax your shoulders, and make sure your ears line up over your collarbones.
  • When standing: Keep a slight bend in your knees to avoid locking them, according to Kara Griffith, an exercise physiologist at Colorado Canyons Hospital.

Good posture not only makes you look better but also helps prevent pain in your bones and joints, as well as muscle strains and headaches.

Remember, maintaining good posture is an ongoing effort, so practice it regularly!

CONCLUSION

That’s a fantastic perspective! Emphasizing personal style and comfort is key to looking chic every day. By focusing on self-expression and confidence, you can create a look that feels uniquely you. If you have any specific tips or items you’d like to share, or if you’re looking for advice on enhancing your style, feel free to ask!