Computers and notebooks are two essentials for college classes.
Getting ready for the opening semester at college can be a daunting task, whether you're staying local or attending school on the other side of the country. Preparation seem endless and comes by way of multiple lists--dorm room supplies, personal supplies and class supplies. While purchasing all of the recommended class supplies isn't a strict necessity, owning them can make coursework easier to manage.
Computer
Although it's probably a given that your college has a student computer lab, it may not be open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Even if it is, it's not always convenient to go to the lab to write papers or conduct Internet research. A desktop in your dorm room can provide high power and a lot of storage for files while a laptop is mobile and allows you to take your work to the library or a local caf .
External Hard Drive
A good external hard drive provides as much storage space as a desktop computer and is an easy way to backup your class files in case your computer's hard drive malfunctions. Because external hard drives are offered in a range of storage capacity, prices vary from about $25 to $200. They connect to any computer with a USB cable, so, in the event that your computer does crash, you can go to the computer lab with the external drive, and print out your term paper.
Flash Drive
A flash drive functions as a tiny hard drive. Priced from about $8 to $30 on average, you can use them for frequent files transfers rather than permanent backup. Flash drives can fit in your pocket and are ideal to take to the computer lab when you need to print your work.
Printer
For students who write a large number of papers, owning a printer can be invaluable. As with computers, most campuses have printing facilities available; nevertheless, it could be inconvenient under the pressure of close due dates to go elsewhere to print a paper. The computer printer market offers a variety of small, portable printers, which is all you need if you're only printing class papers.
Folders and Notebooks
Modern technology aside, folders and notebooks still hold rank when it comes to keeping papers and notes organized on an immediate basis. Buy a separate folder and notebook for each class. Consider using a binder to organize yourself daily by putting a specific day's folders and notebooks together in the binder. That way, you don't have to return home between classes.
Pens, Pencils and Highlighters
There's also no way to replace pens, pencils and highlighters in the classroom. Pens with fluid tips make note-taking flow more easily, pencils are a must for courses that test by Scantron and highlighters come in handy while studying textbook materials.
Digital Voice Recorder
For technical or especially in-depth lectures, a digital voice recorder can come in handy. Rather than worrying about catching every word during class, you can focus on its meaning. Use the recording to go back over the lecture later, listening for specifics. You can upload the digital voice file to your computer and even upload it on to a personal listening device so you can listen to it anywhere.
Calendar
Managing a part-time or full class load can be daunting, especially if your life also includes work and family. Even though computers, PDAs and cell phones have built-in calendars, using a paper calendar or planner has an economical advantage. Also, you can quickly jot down important upcoming dates in a planner without missing a beat duringf a class lecture.
Bag
A bag--whether it's a backpack, laptop bag or messenger-style bag--is essential for college students. If you commute around campus by bicycle, look for a sturdy, well-made bag with a large flap closure. If you plan to carry a laptop often, buy a bag with extra padding meant to protect the laptop. For heavy loads, backpacks have the advantage because they distribute the weight equally to both shoulders.
Tags: hard drive, your computer, class supplies, come handy, computer with