4 Must-Have Items For A University Freshman

Going to university is a monumental step in a young adult’s life. The transition from your earlier years to university is not something to take likely as a student of life. Building a freshman’s arsenal goes beyond stocking up on pens, markers, and notebooks. You need to be prepared for the challenges ahead!

I understand the financial constraints of a student but, that does not mean that you cannot have nice and sturdy things. Buying less items of quality is better than purchasing more school supplies for less. May this list help you with your journey as a freshman.

#1: A HEAVY-DUTY LAPTOP

As I was contemplating on the essential products necessary to make a freshman’s life easier, the “laptops” instantly popped into my head. A laptop acts as a weapon to combat sleepless nights spent on take-home tasks, group projects, and research papers. Laptop has been a vital part in our generation’s education that many scholarships or grants include allowance for gadgets.

As modern technology advances each year, you may want to consider investing on a hybrid. A hybrid device combines the portability of a tablet and the functionality of a laptop. Popular hybrid models include the Microsoft Surface Pro and the Lenovo Yoga.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

The specifications of the laptop that you must buy depends on your undergraduate major. If you are majoring in computer science or graphics design, strong RAM and GPU are parts of your criteria. As a Psychology student and a freelance writer, my MacBook Pro stood the test of time. Many of my previous classmates relied heavily on this product too. I would not trade it for any hybrids just yet!

#2: A PRESENTATION OUTFIT

In the span of your undergraduate studies, you will be subjected to several presentations such as the thesis proposal. Aim to look your best to provide a positive mark! I can still recall the day when I presented my final thesis to a panel of lecturers. My classmate told me that my “beautiful dress” saved me. He may be joking but, I dressed well for the part. I chose a black cocktail dress, which I felt comfortable and confident in.

Investing on some wardrobe staples such as quality heels or leather shoes and black blazers can give you an advantage. You may also opt for flats to avoid horrible blisters after your career fair. Invest in clothing articles that you are willing to wear or stand in for a long period of time.

#3: A SET OF COMFORTABLE SHOES

Walking, without a doubt, is the best way to go around any campus. With countless hours spent roaming in the halls of your university, it is vital to equip yourself with comfortable shoes. Accomplish a considerable amount of steps in your cheap sandals (without any sole support) is not going to help you! You need to switch to sneakers or flats with thicker soles.

Keep the elements of versatility and comfort in mind when purchasing your school shoes. A family relative of mine swears by the Skechers’ slip on. While, I personally prefer the classic Birkenstock as my school and work shoes. For a trendy student, a white Superga 2750 may pass your taste.

#4: A DURABLE BACKPACK

What is the one item that students often overlook yet overuse? The backpack, of course! The backpack serves a significant role in a student’s life. It is arguably the most versatile part of the university student’s arsenal as it houses important items such as laptops and books. It can transform from an everyday wear to a getaway wear. For its functionality, you must not settle for a flimsy and cheap one.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

I cannot stress how some university students live completely out of their backpacks. Thus, you must stay on the safe side by purchasing trusted brands such as the JanSport or by purchasing bags built for hiking. Bags like these are spacious and have various pockets to carry all of your essentials at once.

 

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Money-Saving Tips For Uni Students In Singapore

Many people believe that the “student life” is golden. I firmly agree! The holistic experiences and social exposures you receive during the course of your tertiary education are heavily treasured. You cannot get these things anywhere else!

Ease your financial load by following these tips:

JUST KEEP PEDALING

Automobile companies lure us with their promise of privacy and convenience during our daily commute. Owning a car may add a level of prestige, but it comes with a hefty price! You must cover several expenses such as gas, parking, and maintenance. Just thinking about my car’s maintenance gives me a headache!

As a thriving student, it is a good idea to steer away from this financial burden. Consider the alternative types of commute such as public transportation, cycling, and walking. You are eligible to apply for an Undergraduate Concession Card as a full-time undergraduate from a government or government-aided tertiary institution (T&Cs apply). This card allows you to save a decent amount of cash for your entire matriculation.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Secondly, cycling to school is beneficial for the environment and for your health. The same benefits apply to walking. When I was a university student, I spared 40 minutes of my day for travelling. I walked to school every morning with music in my ears. I can either feel the breeze or focus on my thoughts. Do the same thing if you are going to travel short distances.

As a friendly reminder, stay safe by having someone accompany you while walking to isolated areas. Let a family member or a friend know about your whereabouts at all times.

SELL YOUR BOOKS

It goes without saying that the product of one’s intellect comes with a price. Reference books or textbooks suited for tertiary students costs as low as S$50 each. It is a significant price to pay for a book that you will use for barely 3-4 months. Thus, students must employ different strategies to save money on their books.

Firstly, you can rent a book for free at the National Library. Secondly, you can purchase second-hand books online. Lastly, you may sell your old books to afford another one. Aim to sell your books to the next batch of students.

I am well aware that some people refuse to discard their belongings, including the ones that are seemingly useless (e.g., old newspapers). Hoarding can harm your chances of getting the best deals as the books’ resale value lessens in time.

EARN ON THE SIDE

In general, tertiary students are divided into two financial groups. The first group of people can survive solely with their allowance. While, the second group survives by earning money on the side. It is easy to immerse yourself with your academic responsibilities without having to worry about your finances. However, you may want to invest on your financial freedom. Extra money entails that you can build a travel or an emergency fund.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Image Credits: pixabay.com

I belonged to the first group. During the first year of my tertiary education, I underestimated the weight of earning my own money. I handpicked the friendly gatherings that I will attend to maximize my allowance. My perception all changed when my friend pointed out that I must choose the restaurant to eat at. I was given the tasked as she perceived me to be the “poorest”. I decided to boost my financial capacity by working as a secretary at my mother’s workplace. This experience has exposed me to the diverse work culture in the country. Not to mention, it benefited my career profile.

Make money on the side by working part-time at a restaurant, by distributing flowers, or by opening a blog shop. Find part-time jobs at freelancezone.com.sg.

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