THE UNION
16
LIFESTYLE
MAY 2016
Get prepared for college with these necessities BY ASHLEY RICKS
BY TERRA WALLS
Junior
Cardigan from Banana Republic
Dress from Pacsun
In the midst of financial aid forms, scholarship essays, and searching for that cute university sweatshirt to wear to school in order to publically finalize your SIR, it’ s easy to push off one thing until the week before move-in date: dorm shopping. The experience of living in a dorm - away from the comfort of home- is what most would consider a valuable part of the college experience. Make this experience more enjoyable by getting the following items, so you can settle into your dorm with (somewhat of a) peace of mind.
Additional lighting: The overhead lights in most college dorms are typically harsh and uninviting. Get a floor lamp in order to create a more comfortable environment and balance out the lighting in the room. Desk lamps: When your roommate has the flu and is desperately trying to get some sleep, you’ll be grateful you can still stay up to cram because you brought a desk lamp. Don’t be that guy who leaves the overhead light on until 2 a.m.
Loafers from H&M
Shower baskets/bags: If you’ re
living in a hall, bring a shower basket that you can keep by your door, so your toiletries are in one place and you can grab them all at once. There are even waterproof shower bags that dry fast and are slime-free. Storage containers: Utilize the space under your bed for extra clothes, shoes, and other items that would otherwise clutter your dorm. They’re also a good way to organize and keep your things separated. Tupperware: With some tupperware, you’ ll be able to get more out of the meal plan you’re paying for. Pile some extra food in and bring it back to your dorm for the next meal.
Mattress pad: This won’t take up any extra space, but it will give you so much more comfort. Snacks: A pretty obvious college-dorm must. Stock up on Costco-sized snack packs to save money. Remember to bring chip clips so your food doesn’t go stale. Earbuds: If you need some alone-time while your roommate has been skyping for three hours, pop in some earbuds and relax in your own Spotify playlist. Or set that early-morning alarm without waking others up by going to sleep with earbuds in. Water filter: This will save you money on packs of water and from collecting bottles and cans. Fill up a pitcher with tap water and let the
filter work its magic- it’s better for the environment, and your wallet. Photos of your friends/wall decorations: You will be able to bring a piece of home to your dorm with you by developing photos of your senior summer adventures to eventually hang up. Go crazy on Pinterest and figure out how to make your corner of your dorm absolutely you. DIY matching posters with your close friends to bring to your respective colleges. It will add a sentimental touch to your room and make parting a little easier. Mugs: Of all sizes. You will likely be using them for all the Buzzfeed microwavable meals you’ll try. Carpet slippers: Flip-flops are a must for the community showers, but many freshmen neglect to bring carpet slippers. Don’ t agonize over the mysterious stain in the corner; bring some comfy carpet slippers to keep your conscience at bay and your socks clean. A planner: If you’re switching from the familiar semester lifestyle to the fast-paced quarter system, a planner will help keep track of everything. Organizing your schedule doesn’t have to be in the form of a physical planner, either. Apps such as “Planner Pro” can help you manage your schedule. Electric kettle: While this may sound random, it will enable you make a variety of foods without even leaving your dorm, if you don’t have the space or the funds for a microwave. You’ll be able to make ramen, macaroni, and tea, among others, all from one $30 appliance that can sit comfortably on a desk.
Her Fashion Inspir ation: “I’ve always loved Jenn Im’s style, and I find a lot of inspiration on Tumblr, too.”
Junior
Shirt from Calvin Klein
Homework Help Skills Review Tutoring ESL
Backpack from Amazon
Br acelet souvenir from Hawaii Shorts from Macy’s
Sneakers from Vans
Headin’ for Success! HIs Fashion Inspir ation: “I go for the casual preppy look. I look at YouTube and my friends for inspiration.”
Success! Learning Center a non-profit educational & tutoring center
355 Dixon Rd. Milpitas CA 95035
(408) 263-9754 Visit us on the web! www.successlearningcenter.org