When back to school advertisements start rolling into our news feeds and TV commercials, students across the nation shudder with anxiety and excitement. It’s another period of Ikea trips, Target runs, and Apple store appointments—all the essential pit stops to ensure a productive semester. Amidst the hustle and bustle of trying to put together the most dynamic dorm space, every student and parent should take the time to make a list of necessary items before heading into any shops. It’s easy to lose a bit of self-control when back to school items cover the aisles of all your favorite stores, so knowing exactly which gadgets and accessories to invest in will help streamline the buying process.
All-in-One Computer
Laptops have come an astonishingly long way since becoming household staples. In a college setting, however, you’re often asked to accomplish tasks for assignments and projects that go beyond conventional laptop capabilities. If you’ve done your research on the latest model of laptops, you’ve probably wondered what an all-in-one computer is, and how it differs from a normal desktop or laptop. The easiest answer is sheer compactness. Typically, desktop setups feature two working parts that make up the whole. An all-in-one computer takes the computer tower and monitor and combines the two for a more sizable fit. All-in-one PCs are the space saving answer for students who need a little more screen space and CPU horsepower for courses that encourage a little bit of gaming to help with your learning.
iPad Mini
iPads are one of the academic world’s best-kept secrets. While most students show up to class with a laptop handy, iPads offer the same computer power without the excess weight or laggy load times. Resourceful students may even be able to replace textbooks with e-books.
Graphic design students will appreciate the sharp display and high definition 2048 x 1536 image resolution. Boasting some of the world’s most powerful processor and graphics chips, the iPad mini may be small, but it is mighty beyond belief.
Wireless Earbuds
Whether you plan on hitting the gym with your favorite playlist or just need some soothing sounds to drown out the chatter in the library, a pair of noise-cancelling wireless earbuds will do the trick. Capable of taking calls with the integrated microphone, the Jabra Elite 65t earbuds are engineered with EarGels that deliver a comfortable in-ear fit for all ear sizes and shapes. They will enable you to write your research paper in peace and quiet, no matter where you are.
Roku Stick
This may not help with your productivity, but everyone needs to take time off now and again. The trend of online TV watching has taken off, and shows no signs of losing traffic. If your dorm has a television set, save yourself the hassle of connecting through an HDMI cable and set yourself up with a handy-dandy Roku stick. Not only does Roku give access to over 500,000 movies and TV show episodes, but it also comes with a remote fashioned with integrated Hulu, Netflix, Sling, and Vudu shortcut buttons—everything the modern techie and binge-watcher needs for a complete entertainment experience. According to an article from Cable Compare, the trend of watching TV online has taken off and is showing no signs of slowing any time soon.
Wireless Mouse
Regardless of whether you’re suited up with a desktop computer or a laptop, having a wireless mouse makes life much easier when you’re feeling restricted by a small track pad box. Whether you’re knee deep in editing your recent assignment or trying to get your grades up after a tough semester, having an added boost of cursor precision can make all the difference.
Backpack
What’s a student without their backpack? It’s only fair to assume that you’ll be journeying far and wide to make it to class on time, so you should venture out in style with a nifty backpack. Herschel backpacks are some of the most stylish on the market, and most feature a laptop pocket for your device’s safe keeping. Whether you’re into basic colors or more extravagant patterns, there’s a little something for everyone.
Antivirus Software
One of the most common mistakes you can make as a college student is getting hit with a nasty computer virus. Malware can totally corrupt a computer, compromise files, and turn a PC into a lemon. Protect yourself against cyber security threats by investing in protective antivirus software. Though it’s impossible to make your PC completely virus-proof, added security software helps provide that extra layer for peace of mind.
Bluetooth Tracker Device
You may not want to admit it, but it’s easy to lose things on campus. With all the different classrooms, lecture halls, and eating areas, one moment of forgetfulness could cost you heavily. The good news is, that doesn’t have to be the case! There are now a number of companies that provide simple, classy Bluetooth devices that will alert you if you’re leaving your precious belongings behind. These tiny trackers can sync to your phone, too, alerting you to the exact location of anything you have forgotten.
Getting ready to head back to college necessitates being prepared—so make sure you get this next semester off on the right start with these smart tech investments.
For more great topics related to anything about college life, check out the other blogs at College Basics.
