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A List of Everyday Items to Improve Your College Experience

By Faith Eckley


The list of necessities for college students is extensive, ranging from a mattress topper to school supplies, but there are many small items that are helpful in making the day-to-day lives of college students easier. The following list includes some extra items recommended by Jefferson students that are helpful to keep on hand.



Reproduced with permission from Wix

Jefferson students recommend to keep these helpful items on hand.


  1. Headphones: 

Having headphones to listen to music can keep students entertained while walking to class and can be helpful to maintain focus while studying, especially if they have a noise cancellation feature. Sony Headphones, Beats Headphones, Sony Noise Canceling Headphones   


“I like to use headphones because they are noise canceling which allow me to focus on my workouts without all of the yapping,” said sophomore Joshua Riendeu.


2. Reusable water bottle:

Staying hydrated throughout long days of classes and activities is important to feel your best. Reusable water bottles are beneficial to keep drinks cold throughout the day, can be refilled as needed, and lower the rate of plastic waste on Jefferson’s campus. Owala Water Bottle , Hydro Flask 


Sophomore Izzy Whitten recommends an Owala water bottle. Whitten said, “Owala water bottles are super trendy, are available in fun colors, durable, easy to carry, and they’re just awesome.” Some Owala water bottles also have a lid with both a straw and sip feature, making it convenient to use in class or the gym. 


Sophomore Liana Muniz recommends a Hydro Flask. Muniz said, “Hydro Flasks are simple, very durable, easy to clean, and you don't have to refill them very often.”


3. Travel coffee mug and supplies to make your own coffee

College students are notorious coffee drinkers, but the cost of ordering coffee can add up throughout the semester. Purchasing the supplies to make your own coffee at home can save money and allow you to customize your drink to your liking. Milk Frother,  Keurig Hot and Iced Coffee Maker, Yeti Tumbler for Hot and Cold Drinks 


Sophomore Kaylee Rivera said, “To those who struggle with the discipline of preparing coffee at home, think of the $7 that quickly multiplies. I recommend picking one day a week to treat yourself, but be sure to utilize reward systems!”


4. Walking shoes 

Comfortable walking shoes can be very valuable since students are constantly walking around campus. They can also be used in the campus gym. Women's Hoka Walking Sneakers, Men's Hoka Walking Sneakers, Women's Adidas Sneakers, Men's Adidas Sneakers  


Sophomore Navya Palyam said, “I recommend investing in a good pair of shoes because they help prevent foot pain and last longer, saving you money in the long run.”


Hoka walking sneakers are highly rated, but there are many other highly rated options closer to $50 on Amazon, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and DSW! 


5. Portable charger 

Portable chargers are helpful to ensure that your electronics are charged and ready  to go for class and studying. Portable Charger  


Sophomore Yamna Bouslimani said, “I recommend portable charges because some people have long days where they can’t get back to their apartments or dorms to charge their phone. Portable chargers are also good for safety.” 


6. Small Bag with toiletries including bandaids, hand sanitizer, hand lotion, chapstick, gum, feminine products, deodorant, Tide To Go Stick Stain Remover, etc.

Keeping travel sized toiletries and products in your bag can be used to freshen up throughout the day.  Small Bag for Essential Items 


Junior Lily Crafton recommends keeping a small bag including hand sanitizer, hand lotion, and lip gloss. Crafton said, “I always have toiletries that I know I am going to use throughout the day in my bag. It makes my day easier because I don't have to worry about asking people to borrow stuff or go back to my apartment or car.”


7. Bags for Travel 

Many college students travel to visit home or go on trips with friends which requires frequent packing and unpacking. Many students may not want to take big suitcases for short visits, so travel bags with compartments to stay organized can be efficient for travel. Beis Weekender Bag, Toiletry Travel Case  

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The Jefferson Student Voice is an entirely student-led news website, published independently out of Thomas Jefferson University East Falls.

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