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College Essentials I Actually Use
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By
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Sophia
A college girl starter pack with back to school must haves (dorm + classes).
Sections
9
 
Dorm / Apartment Essentials
 
Backpack / Everyday Bag
 
Study & Desk Setup
 
Skincare & Self-Care
 
Closet & Laundry
 
Bathroom / Shower

Dorm / Apartment Essentials

Everything that made my dorm feel like home

 
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Soft, neutral, and makes dorm beds feel way more comfortable
Twin XL sheet set (neutral)
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Honestly a must-have if you’re living in a dorm
Dorm Mattress Topper
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Perfect for keeping my phone, charger, and essentials within reach
Bedside Caddy
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Lightweight but cozy and makes the room feel more put together
Throw Blanket
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Fits in small spaces and doesn’t look ugly
Slim Laundry Hamper
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So necessary when outlets are in the worst spots
Extension Cord w/ Surge Protector
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Makes trips to the communal bathroom way easier (plastic over fabric for those dirty floors)
Shower Caddy
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Backpack / Everyday Bag

What I carry with me every day on campus

 
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Fits everything without looking bulky
Sturdy Laptop Backpack with USB Charging Port
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Protects my laptop and slides easily into my bag
Laptop Sleeve
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Simple and keeps my iPad from getting scratched
iPad Case with Pencil Holder
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Keeps all my random pens and chargers organized
Pencil Pouch
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I bring this with me every single day
Ello Reusable Water Bottle
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A lifesaver for long days on campus
Portable Charger
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Always in my bag, especially during class days
eos Cashmere Lip Butter - Vanilla Cashmere
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Great for bringing snacks or meals to class without everything getting warm
Insulated Lunch Box
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Study & Desk Setup

My desk essentials for staying productive

 
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Perfect for late-night studying without harsh lighting
LED Desk Lamp
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Helps with posture and makes my setup more comfortable
Laptop Stand
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Great if you’re staring at screens all day
Blue Light Glasses
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Keeps me on track during busy weeks
Planner
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Makes studying and working so much easier
Wireless Mouse
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Keeps cords from taking over my desk
Cable Organizer
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Skincare & Self-Care

My low-effort college skincare routine

 
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Perfect for nights when you’re too tired to wash your hair → you wake up with it looking fresh
Batiste Overnight Dry Shampoo
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Simple, effective, and perfect for busy mornings
7 Best Face Washes for Sensitive Skin That Are Gentle Yet Effective
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Keeps my skin hydrated even during stressful weeks
Moisturizers With SPF for Every Skin Type
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A daily must, even on campus days
Broad Spectrum SPF & Water Resistant Sunscreen
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So clutch for surprise breakouts
Pimple Patch
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Keeps my lips hydrated overnight
Lip Sleeping Mask Nourish & Hydrate
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Great for dry hands during the semester
Hand Creams
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Perfect for a quick refresh between classes
Sephora's Best Face Mists
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Easy and convenient after long days
Best Makeup Cleansing Wipes
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Closet & Laundry

Dorm closet essentials that just make sense

 
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Saves space and keeps clothes from slipping
Velvet Hangers
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Perfect for bags, jackets, and towels
Over The Door Hooks
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Such a college essential
Lint Roller
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Way easier than ironing in a dorm
Clothing Steamer
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Great for delicates and socks
Mesh Laundry Bags
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Keeps shoes off the floor and organized
Shoe Organizer
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Fits in small spaces and doesn’t look ugly
Slim Laundry Hamper
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Bathroom / Shower

Communal bathroom survival essentials

 
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Never go barefoot in the dorm especially the shower
Shower Slides
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Dries my hair fast and takes up no space
Microfiber Hair Towel
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So helpful when bathroom space is limited
Desk Makeup Mirror
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Makes trips to the communal bathroom way easier
Shower Caddy
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Tech Essentials

Study tech that makes life easier

 
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Essential if your laptop doesn’t have many ports
USB-C Hub
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Gotta make sure the phone can charge from anywhere in the room
6ft Charing Cables
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Great for studying anywhere cause college can be loud
Bose Noise-Canceling Headphones
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Simple but adds peace of mind
Webcam Cover
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Works great for notes without the high price
Apple Pencil Dupe
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Such a peace-of-mind thing for keys, bags, or even your backpack
Apple AirTag
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Health & Reset

Things I use during stressful weeks

 
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Perfect for dorm lights and early mornings
Nodpod Gentle Pressure Sleep Mask
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So comforting during stressful weeks
Heating Pad
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Great for de-puffing in the morning
Reusable Ice Roller
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Love having chilled skincare
Mini Fridge for Skincare and Snacks
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Snack & Comfort Picks

Late-night study essentials

 
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Perfect for tea, instant noodles, and late nights
Electric Kettle
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A cozy little essential
Mug
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Easy grab-and-go snacks for busy days
Protein Bars
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Keeps everything organized and visible
Snack Storage Bin
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Perfect for quick meals when you don’t want to live off dining hall food
Nonstick Skillet
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