College supply checklist 2020

Much like everything else in our lives, today’s new “normal” has changed the way we shop for school supplies. Here is a list of top 10 school supplies that will help you transition smoothly into college during the COVID-19 era.

1)     Laptop and laptop case

Whether you’re studying remotely from home, dorm room, or a classroom, a laptop is a must-have item for a college student. Especially if your classes are virtual and your college’s computer lab is closed, your own laptop is vital to access your schoolwork and conduct your studies online. Just be sure to check with your school on operating-system requirements.

*If you’re interested in purchasing a refurbished laptop or computer, consider shopping local. Many computer repair shops sell gently-used equipment.

2)     Earplugs, AirPods, or noise-cancelling headphones

These items are crucial to remain sane while possibly sharing your study space with your entire household. You’ll especially need them if you’re conducting virtual learning for Zoom or Google Classroom meetings with your professor and classmates.

3)     Wireless charger

A wireless charger will give you the comfort in having a backup plan. Whether the power goes out or coffee shops close down again, you’ll be able to keep on studying without any hiccups or interruptions.

Look for a universal laptop wireless charger that can charge your tablet and smartphone at the same time. 

4)     Binder, folder and notebooks for each class

How you organize your notes is essential to your academic success in college. Some notebooks come with folders already inserted so pick and choose whether a binder, folder, notebook or all three would work best for you. Since most classes are moving online, and not much paperwork will be handed out to you, a notebook for each class would suffice if you had to choose.

5)     Pens, highlighters and mechanical pencils

All three will come in handy for your college classes so make sure to stock up. Try to buy at least two pens and mechanical pencils that have grip-like pads at the base. Your fingers will thank you after you’ve had to write a lot in your notebook.

6)     TurboScan app

A big bulky scanner is a relic compared to the TurboScan app. Take a picture of a document (notes, receipts, books, photos, etc.) that you’d like scanned with your smartphone and it will automatically create a multipage document of your choice (PDF, JPEG, etc.).

7)     Planner or calendar

Having a physical paper planner or calendar up on the wall is important to stay organized with your schoolwork. That way you’ll have a visual reminder everyday that your mid-term exam is this week and not next week!  

8)     Portable wireless router

Unless you plan on solely studying from your home or dorm room (assuming you already have wireless internet connection there), you may want to consider getting your own secure portable wireless router. Your own portable wireless router will be a great asset to your study needs and allow you to have access to the internet anytime (just in case the power goes out) and anywhere you go.

*Check with your phone service provider for phone and internet bundling options, they may also have student discounts.

9)     Printer and stapler

You may not need to print or staple anything, but you never know. If you think you’ll absolutely need one, visit your local Goodwill or Salvation Army store first for any used printers. More than likely someone donated a printer, an item that you’ll seldom use and may be the reason why it was donated.

10) Hand sanitizer and face mask

You’re probably already well stocked on hand sanitizers and face masks but it’s always good to have more than enough. The Star Advertiser frequently updates their “Where to purchase or find a face mask in Hawaii” story to keep locals up to date. Also, keep a hand sanitizer available in all crevices within your life. Keep one by your desk or study area, one in your purse or backpack, one as soon as you enter your household or dorm room, and one in your reusable shopping bag.

Rule of thumb for your school supply list: Research and stay informed. Keep up with your local news for any updates regarding grants and scholarship opportunities for your graduating class. Seniors, be sure to apply for your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). If there are any changes to you or your family’s financial situation—and you have already submitted your FAFSA—you may be eligible to have your financial aid adjusted. Grant monies awarded from your FAFSA application can be used for your college expenses, which includes items on this school supply list.