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.

40 ADORABLE NATURAL HAIRSTYLES FOR BLACK KIDS

Your little one is a bundle of joy, and their natural hair is a crown of glory! Let’s celebrate the beauty of their curls, coils, and kinks with a collection of 40 irresistibly cute hairstyles perfect for two-year-old black toddlers. From simple styles for everyday adventures to intricate looks for special occasions, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to discover endless possibilities for your toddler’s hair and watch their confidence bloom! Let’s dive into the world of toddler hair and explore some amazing styles together!

AT WHAT AGE CAN I START STYLING MY BABY’S HAIR?

You can style your little girl’s hair at any age. The hairstyles below are perfect for children who are two years old or younger. From a simple headband to easy puffs or buns, there are endless possibilities for adorning her hair.

ARE BRAIDS SUITABLE FOR TODDLERS?

Braids can be a fantastic choice for toddlers when done gently and with care to avoid putting too much tension on the scalp.

AT WHAT AGE IS IT APPROPRIATE TO START BRAIDING (OR CORNROWING) MY BABY’S HAIR?

very child is unique, but generally, by age three, most toddlers have the patience to sit for an hour or more, especially with distractions. The right age for braiding your child’s hair can also depend on their hair texture and length. If your daughter has kinky 4c hair that is longer than 3 inches, you can braid it comfortably without causing tension. In such cases, her hair might be ready for braids as early as 12 months old.

HOW CAN I CARE FOR MY TODDLER’S HAIR?

Early protective measures, such as using satin bonnets and pillowcases, help reduce breakage and frizz. Loosen the base of ponytail sections before bedtime to prevent pain and damage from tension.

To keep her hair moisturized, apply a leave-in conditioner twice a week and use a gentle oil, like olive oil, to grease her scalp.

For healthy hair growth, wash her hair weekly and follow up with a deep conditioning treatment to nourish and support continued growth.

THE MOST ADORABLE HAIRSTYLES FOR TWO-YEAR-OLD TODDLERS

WASH AND GO ON BABIES

Who says little girls can’t rock a wash-and-go? When you want to switch things up, simply gather her hair into a stylish mega puff.

STITCH BRAIDS ON A TODDLER

Precision is essential for this 4-5 pie slice cornrow style. The cornrowed sections are divided into perfectly aligned slices, highlighting the meticulous braiding skills of moms.

LOVELY CORNROWS

These natural hair cornrows reveal a heartwarming surprise at every twist and turn, making them ideal for your most patient little ones. Complete the look with a coordinating hair accessory of your choice.

TWO STRAND TWISTS WITH ACESSORIES

For those who prefer not to braid, you can achieve a cornrow-like effect by using small banded sections that interlock with each other. This approach helps keep the hairline mostly fuzz-free and adds a unique twist to this 6-section style.

FRONTAL CORNROWS

A few cornrows paired with butterfly clips turn this short natural style into an ethereal delight. It’s perfect for kids who have a hard time sitting still for hair appointments. This simple hairstyle can even be braided while she’s asleep or eating.

SOFT TWO STRAND TWISTS WITH A MEGA BOW

Classic twists and weighted ends become more engaging with freestyle parts and sections divided into odd numbers.

EIGHT CHUNKY TWO-STRAND TWISTS

In this style, banded sections are connected after the rubber bands are placed. A loose, twirly twist is secured with a firm braid at the end to keep the hair in place.

CREATIVE TWISTS IN A PUFF

Banded sections are divided in two, twisted, and then gathered into a high, soft coily puff with the loose ends.

EASY CORNROWS ON TODDLER

FREESTYLE BUNS AND PLAITS

This style captures all that’s delightful about fresh baby girl hairstyles. Since growth can be uneven and unpredictable, mix and match styles to suit her current length. Short pieces can be styled high, long pieces gathered low, and every piece looks absolutely adorable.

MINI PUFFS ON SHORT HAIR

On days when you’re too tired for anything complicated, you’ll be relieved to know that pigtails secured with colorful hair ties matching your little girl’s outfit are always a great choice.

MEGA CURLY PUFFS WITH FULANI CORNROWS

As your toddler’s hair grows in length and volume, take advantage of this low-maintenance styling phase. Highlight her girlish charm with soft duckbill flower clips that won’t strain her roots or pinch her delicate skin while she naps.

MEGA BUNS WITH SCRUNCHIES

Boost your baby girl’s bun volume with double scrunchies and pair it with a matching outfit!

RUBBERBAND HAIRSTYLE WITH CORNROWS AND BUNS

Enhance your basic row-back skills with precise parts to add depth to the style. Rainbow rubber bands introduce a vibrant touch between two standard cornrows on either side. Tightly plaited ponytails can be styled into buns early in the week and then switched to a braid-out for some extra volume before wash day.

SUMMERTIME CURLS

Natural curls are ideal for styling baby girls’ hair during summer, especially when pool splashing and sprinkler fun can leave twists and braids looking fuzzy. To avoid matted, tangled beads from chlorine-dampened hair, pre-treat loose, free-flowing curls that can be easily rinsed and detangled after water play. Gather a small section at the top and add a bow for a cute, fancy look for a post-pool playdate.

SIMPLE JUMBO TWISTS WITH ACCESSORIES

Medium-sized beads are a fantastic addition to the ends of larger braids or twists. They transform a basic four-square layout into something special for any occasion! Complete the look with coordinating bows for the perfect finishing touch.

SIMPLE PLAITS WITH ACCESSORIES

Short toddler hair can gain length and movement with a bit of added weight. Beads, barrettes, and, as shown here, twin beads at the ends of twisted or plaited sections help direct short hair to grow downward rather than outward.

CORNROWS WITH ZIG ZAG DOUBLE PUFFS

Cornrows with zigzag patterns and double puffs are a playful and stylish choice for two-year-olds. This fun hairstyle combines intricate braiding with bouncy puffs, creating a look that’s both eye-catching and suitable for young kids.

AFROPUFF GIRL

Nothing says “pretty girl rock” quite like a pair of classic afro puffs. The fuller the puffs, the better! Define your toddler’s curls with Aunt Jessie’s Baby Butter Crème on wash day for curls that stay bouncy and beautiful all week at daycare.

BRAID-FREE PASTEL PATTERN

Alternating white and yellow rubber bands offer a delightful braid-free style, ideal for braid-shy moms and active toddlers.

TWO STRAND TWISTS ON TODDLERS

Twists and their “twist-outs” are a quick and easy style for damp, freshly washed hair, perfect for both moms and their babies. Twists provide a heat-free method to stretch drying hair, setting the stage for more intricate braided and cornrowed styles later. Adding a headband or wrap to the freestyle twists completes the look and enhances the protective style.

ZIGZAG BABY BANTU KNOTS

This five-section style is defined by precise parts and neatly laid sections. Secure each base with a rubber band, then band again after tightly winding the plaited hair into a knot. Use kid-friendly edge control for a sleek, smooth finish.

AFROPUFF WITH CURLY BANGS

Toddler curls are delicate, soft, and charming during their early years. Hairstyles can range from elaborate to simple. Here, baby girls’ curls are left loose and free for everyone to admire, with short front curls styled like bangs. A large statement bow adds an extra touch of specialness to the softly gathered high ponytail.

BABY BUNS WITH DOUBLE SCRUNCHIE

Nothing adds volume to fine toddler hair like a classic ’90s scrunchie. Thankfully, they’re making a comeback!

TWA WITH A MEGA HEADBAND

Every child is unique, so cherish the carefree days of short-haired babies while they last. Celebrate baby girls’ peach fuzz with bows, headbands, wraps, and hats.

VALENTINE’S CHIC

The rear heart serves as the centerpiece and focal point of this style. After creating the heart part, six symmetrical spokes outline the remaining sections. Apply leave-in curl conditioner to enhance shine and definition.

HALF-UP HALF-DOWN

Part broad sections along your toddler’s hairline to create individual twists. Face-framing strands, especially if too short for a ponytail, can become fuzzy, but shorter strands stay neat within the small twisted sections. Gather the remaining hair into a fluffy top ponytail or leave it loose to showcase natural curls. Finish the look with pretty pink metallic cuffs for a delightful touch.

RUBBERBAND SECTIONS

Metallic braid cuffs add a touch of elegance to basic black rubber bands. Start from the front and work your way back, connecting each section for a neat, unified look. For longer hair, link sections of the free-hanging ponytail like little sausages. Place the cuffs over the rubber bands along the length of the style for a polished finish.

DOUBLE MEGA BUNS

Diagonals, zig-zags, and lightning bolt parts instantly add flair to your toddler’s hairstyle. Loose hair gathered into buns looks even more adorable when accessorized with crisscrossed rainbow clips.

BASKET WEAVE PARTY PLAITS

No cornrow skills are needed for this style. The simple basket weave creates a complex look from straightforward plaited hair. Banded sections on either side of a central part are braided from root to tip. Gather the plaits on the left into the larger section of remaining hair on the right. Weave the small plaits on the right under, over, and under to form the basket pattern, then gather them into a ponytail on the opposite side. Finish with a pair of buns adorned with matching twin beads.

BANDED BEAUTY

Colored rubber bands and symmetrical parts add visual interest while keeping hair neatly in place. Twisted bangs help reduce tension at the front. Gathered hair can be left in a poof or twisted to complement the front style.

PIGTAIL PUFFS

Fuzzy edges indicate it’s time for a style refresh. Keeping your toddler’s hairline cornrowed helps prevent fuzz from disrupting a beautiful look. These charming puffs stay neat longer with the edges braided down.

SPLIT TWIST FREESTYLE

Freestyle parts and simple two-strand twists offer a quick and easy style suitable for children of any age. This look is especially effective on freshly washed, damp hair, as the twists will be coily and more likely to stay in place. Divide each gathered section into two twists for added volume, and use beaded ends to add weight for extra stretch and movement.

CUTE CURLS WITH A HEADBAND

Newborn curls require gentle care and consistent cleansing and conditioning. Maintain your toddler’s hair with a shiny and defined look using kid-friendly leave-in conditioner and curl-defining custard. Before long, that TWA will transform into a full, glorious crown.

EAR-TO-EAR BRAIDED HEAD BAND

This ear-to-ear style perfectly complements an ear-to-ear smile. As their daughter’s hair and patience grow, many moms start learning to cornrow. This beginner-friendly style features a single cornrow across a wide left-to-right section of hair. The tail is gathered into a natural top puff and embellished with bows and barrettes.

FULANI CORNROWS WITHOUT EXTENSIONS

Natural hair cornrows are an excellent way to showcase your toddler’s personality. The pie-slice part pattern provides a great opportunity for a top bow. Let your daughter choose her favorite accessories in her preferred colors. Here, subtle brown beads complement her choice of pink perfectly.

CORNROWS INTO AN AFROPUFF

Restless toddlers may not have the patience for intricate cornrow styles, so aim for a neat, sweet, and functional look. This square pattern gathers the front half of the hair into four broad sections, making it easy to manage.

Cornrow the remaining hair while your baby naps on a pillow in your lap or enjoys a snack in her highchair. If she becomes too restless, skip the rear sections and smooth the back into a natural puff. Add grosgrain bows for a touch of sparkle.

TOP KNOT ON LITTLE GIRLS

Whether you call them twin beads, bobbles, baubles, or balls, we all wore them, and now our babies do too. Cluster complementary colors around your baby girl’s top knot, letting her choose the shades while you smooth her edges into place.

TWISTS WITH BARET

Two-strand twists are a classic and quick way to elevate your toddler’s hair from frazzled to fancy. Adding barrettes to the ends provides extra weight, giving the twists stretched length and playful movement.

THREE AFRO PUFFS

Your toddler’s hair is delicate and new, so celebrate her natural curls with a simple top puff and a charming accent bow.

CONCLUSION

Embrace the beauty and versatility of your little one’s natural hair! From adorable puffs and twists to playful braids and buns, these 40 hairstyles offer endless possibilities for your two-year-old’s unique style. Remember, the most important thing is to choose styles that are comfortable, low-maintenance, and protect your child’s delicate hair. With a little creativity and care, you can create stunning looks that celebrate your toddler’s natural beauty and confidence.