Just because you’re in college doesn’t mean the thrill of crunching leaves beneath your new boots and opening that new notepad is any less thrilling. Autumn in college is where some of your best memories are made, from football games to joining a new organization. However, summer will be here (again) before you know it, and the prep work you do know can help create an enjoyable and easy year-round experience. Your back to college checklist shouldn’t just include plans and purchases for the autumn, but all the way until fall 2015.
Here’s the ultimate guide to “must-do’s” before heading to your first class:
1. Choose your storage carefully
Not everyone is lucky enough to have a parent who’s happy to play storage unit manager. You’re an adult now, and keeping your belongings that don’t fit in a dorm room at a reputable storage unit is important. When choosing a storage unit, make sure it’s temperature controlled with solid security.
2. A savings plan
It doesn’t matter if you have a job to put yourself through college, an allowance from your parents or student loans. A percentage of your “income” needs to be tucked away for emergencies. Aim for at least five perfect, and keep it in a high-yield savings account (many are online) at an institution that you don’t otherwise bank at.
3. An ergo- and eco-friendly bag
Remember when it was fashionable to have just one backpack strap casually tossed over your shoulder? Your yoga teacher is shaking their head at you right now. Proper posture and alignment doesn’t just make you look better, it makes you feel better and optimizes your health. Choose a school bag that feels good, looks good and (if you can swing it) is made of eco-friendly materials for extra karma points.
4. A solid hygiene routine
For women, ask any older female and they’ll tell you nothing compares to proper skin care starting as young as possible. This means a simple but well followed skincare routine that includes SPF applied every two hours when you’re outdoors. For men, this means caring for facial hair properly if you choose to sport it. For anyone, dental care that includes proper brushing techniques and daily flossing needs to be a priority.
5. (Safely) make the most of it
College is an incredible experience, and it flies by. As long as you’re safe and keep on top of your studies, make the most of it. Travel abroad, say yes to random road trips and foster these relationships with friends because they’re most likely to last.
