Essential University Supplies 2021

Back to school is here and having the essential university supplies should be at the top of your to-do list! If you’re a freshman, you might not know exactly what you’ll need, which is why I put together a handy list of the the supplies you’ll need to be at the top of your class this year. Keep reading to see what you should add to your school supply shopping list!

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Planner

Having a planner is a must-have, especially if you’re in university. I love planners and think they are the key to success. It is necessary to have one place where you can keep track of all your assignments, tests, and activities. 

There are so many different planners out there with a variety of layouts, so it’s important for you to pick one that matches your style. You don’t want to buy a planner that you’re never going to use. Consider your options and then make a decision.

Coloured Pens

When it comes to pens, you need options. I loved using different coloured pens in my planner to colour coordinate my classes. It also helps you visualize your schedule and differentiate your classes and assignments.

Make sure you have a variety of black, blue, and red pens. Some professors might ask you to do corrections in classes where you’ll need red pens (this doesn’t happen often, but you never know). Also, some professors only allow black pens or blue pens on assignments, and you don’t want to be the person asking everyone for an extra pen. It’s better to be prepared and have one of each. 

Pencils

You’ll also need pencils. They are not my writing utensil of choice, but some professors require you to use pencils on exams and you’ll need them for multiple choice exams. It’s best to be prepared and have a few in case you need them. 

Blue Light Glasses

I know this technically doesn’t fall under the “school supplies” category, but they’re a must-have if you’re always on your computer. Your eyes will be destroyed after spending hours upon hours on your laptop writing essays and doing assignments. Blue light glasses will protect your eyes and make those all nighters a lot easier. These are my all-time favourite blue light glasses.

Five Subject Notebook

I highly recommend taking all your notes on pen and paper. I find that it helps you retain information and you’re always focused. Being on your laptop or tablet can be distracting and I found that I never paid attention when I took notes on my laptop. Get one notebook that can fit all your subjects because transferring your notebooks out will get annoying really fast. It’s easier to keep all your notes in one place.

White Out

Always keep white out in your bag, especially if you take notes by hand. You are bound to make a mistake and it’s better (and more aesthetically pleasing) to white it out then to cross it out. Make sure you get the tape kind and not the liquid because you won’t have time to let it dry. 

Highlighters

Highlighters are your best friend when it comes to studying. I like the ones with the invisible tip because then you can see what you’re highlighting and you won’t make a mess of your notes. Have a few colours on hand in case you want to categorize your highlighting (definitions, concepts, etc.)

Stapler

This one might be weird, but having a mini stapler on hand was the best decision I ever made when I was in university. My hot pink stapler was the class saviour multiple times throughout my degree. Many classrooms don’t have staplers in them, which is a pain when people go to hand in their assignment and then realize they forgot to staple it together. That will never be your problem if you have a mini stapler in your bag, and everyone around you will love you for letting them use it too. 

Paper Clips and Binder Clips

You’d be shocked, but paper clips and binder clips come in handy more often than you’d think. I always use paper clips and binder clips to group assignments, loose papers, and study guides. Have a few on hand just in case!

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What are your essential university supplies?

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