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Top grad school recs
21
items All of the things I’d recommend after 7 years of grad school 🤓 these are all items I have used and they’ve become go-to’s!
Sections
2
Desk & Office Supplies
Backpack essentials
Desk & Office Supplies
This is the standing desk I got in my second year and I have loved it since! It has a charging station for your phone or airpods, I'm pretty tall (5'11") and I find it has a good range of height, the glass is aesthetic and its been a good size for my...
Standing & Height Adjustable Desks
This is also on my desk—it's nice to have a texture difference that all of my tech stays on so it doesn't move around, plus it serves as a mouse pad.
Desk Mat
This stays at my desk but I made the switch to a vertical mouse after my wrist beginning to hurt more. I found it easy to get used to and logitech is a reliable brand!
Logitech MX Vertical Ergonomic Wireless Mouse
I've tried many different powerstrips, I find this design works well to fit the most cords without running out of space
Power Strips
My boyfriend got this monitor for me last year and I like it a lot! The curve to the screen helps with the sides from reducing having to turn your head as much on the edges.
Samsung 32-inch S3 FHD 100Hz Curved Monitor
I have multiple of these and they come in handy. There is nothing more annoying than trying to type text from a book to only have it keep closing/falling on you. I prefer one that folds up for storage when not in use.
Reading Stands
You need to have a favorite pen. One that will bring you small joy when you use it. This is mine but you probably will need to try out a few!
Pens and Pencils | Japanese Stationery
Transparent sticky notes are so nice for taking notes, annotating, etc. I like shopping small shops when I can but you can get these on Amazon too I'm sure.
Vintage Transparent Sticky Notes for Annotating Books, Taking Notes, Studying or Organizing - Set of 50 Small 1.5x2” or Large 3x4"
I started using this as my macbook pro got older and the fan started needing to work harder. But I like the ergonomic kickstand option so I have stuck with it, even as I have gotten a newer macbook pro version. Make sure you get the right one for you...
Batianda Heavy Duty Case for MacBook Pro 14" 2025
Backpack essentials
The bags I use & what you can always find in them
I have gone through multiple backpacks and this one is my favorite. I have the green color. I like the pocket options, the storage, and mostly, the padding that makes it comfortable to wear for long periods!
Women's Recon Luxe Backpack
I wasn't sure if I would like the convertable option but after my first conference with it, I can confirm I 10/10 recommend. It was really nice to have a bag that is large and fits quite a bit that is a bit more elevated than a backpack, but at the e...
FADEON Large Designer Leather Laptop Tote
A compact keyboard & mouse will come in handy if you plan to work/study on the go—coffee shops, airplanes, your friends table. I have this set and it has great battery life & can easily connect between 3 devices.
POP Icon Keyboard Mouse Combo
I found it easiest to get a case to carry the keyboard & mouse combo in so I didn't have to worry about them in my backpack (or suitcase).
Storage Case Compatible with Logitech POP ICON Keys Keyboard (Graphite ...
an ergonomic mouse pad is also an essential in my backpack. After years of increased computer usage, I've really found a difference in using one with a wrist rest.
OfficeMax
This makes traveling with a charger so much easier. I have a macbook so I can only speak to using it for that charger. It helps keep my bag organized.
Fuse Reel Side Kick Collapsible Charger Organizer
Recommend especially if you're traveling or if you frequently find your coffee shop doesn't have chargers. Can also attest that this is fine through TSA!
Anker Laptop Power Bank (25K, 165W, Built-In and Retractable Cables)
I like the Owala freesip bottle - it doesn't leak, it's a good size, it's easy to drink from, and the color combos are pleasing to the eye! I have the 32oz but I think it entirely depends on your preference. It adds weight to my backpack but I don't ...
FreeSip® Water Bottle
My on-the-go coffee cup of choice. Whether I am taking coffee from home or using it for my outside bev, I like having a cup that is insulated, leak proof, and doesn't sweat. This fits all of the requirements! Plus it matches my water bottle which is ...
SmoothSip Slider
After about my first year, I started running into issues with computer space. Now, I keep this hooked up to my laptop to help with apps that take up a lot of memory and have large files. You can run apps off of it or just store large files. The fact ...
Crucial - X9 Pro 1TB External USB-C SSD - Space Gray
I always have 1 or 2 on me. I like that these aren’t drying or overpower scents. I usually go for lighter options like the rainmist one. :)
Moisturizing and Uplifting Hand Sanitizer Sprays
I have multiple fidget toys in my backpack, one is from this brand and another is one I got as a gift. I usually go for small, quiet options that I can use with one hand. I find they help me a lot when trying to focus but even more when I’m needing t...
Adult Fidget Toys