So, we’re back in school “post-covid”… sorta, and it’s been a minute since there’s been a clear and concise collection of advice presented to new or returning students as far as supplies and general tips go. I find that college students in particular don’t really have easy access to advice meant specifically for us. As a two (and a half) year psychology major, I’ve tested out a few methods. So, I decided to put together my best tips, recommendations, and hints to try and help point someone in the “Wright” direction ;).
Organize…
We’ve encountered that one chick in middle school or high school who has every color of the rainbow sprawled out on her desk. Markers, pens, pencils, folders- you name it! She had it! And nine times out of ten, you borrowed something from this young lady at least once, but for some reason… she was a wee bit irritating. 
Well… dear reader… I was her! And, I must confess, I kind of still am! So, tip #1: Color code your classes! I’ve found it to be a great way to train your brain to associate a color with a course. For a science class, I’d typically go green or blue. Math? Red, pink, or purple. And for history I typically pick orange! Come up with your own associations and get supplies in those colors too! Pastels, neutrals, patterns! There’s so much to choose from and if you find that you despise a particular subject, set it as your favorite color, it might ease the discomfort (no promises though).
#2, use a planner, calendar, and/or an additional app (also color coded) to ensure that you stay up to date on assignments and due dates. If you can, input all finalized dates from your syllabus before the second week of class. It may seem like a daunting task, and it is… but it helps if you can accomplish it!
My final organizational tidbit would be to store your color coded supplies in a visible and easily accessible area. The more you see the materials and their assigned colors, the less likely you are to neglect your courses. At least that’s how it works for me! You could even assign each course a pattern, or an animal!
Survive (it’s actually just my preffered supplies)
The tools you select for class can be fun! I’ve always had a thing for school supplies because, at least to me, they are art supplies. This means you can and should get creative with the items you use, even if it’s requires you go return to the age of DIY school supplies (it was a trend I never wanted to end). Obviously this won’t make or break your success, but for me, it made classes and assignments more enjoyable…
- Writing tools: My all-time favorite pens are the Pilot pens!
They are bit pricey compared to a regular BIC pen, but they come in a variety of colors and write very smooth. These pens are always on my desk! Next, there’s my, super affordable, dollar store favorites. The Xtreme Smooth gel pens were meant to be my sketch pens but I couldn’t help but use them for school due to their glide and affordability. I use them when I don’t want to use up the Pilot pens too soon or just whenever I feel like having them grace my notes. Next, but last in the pen section, I recommend the Frixion pens (also from Pilot). The ink is erasable with their special caps. Even though I see these pens as more of a novelty item because of the nostalgia they bring me, I still feel like the ability to erase ink is exciting. Especially if you prefer writing in ink like I do. Some final items to consider that I don’t have a particular brand to name are dual tip markers (fine and brush tip), weighted mechanical pencils, and those clear tipped highlighters (I think they might actually be sharpie exclusive).
- Sorting: I know this may seem clichĂ©, but I really appreciate Five Star folders. They really seem to last longer than other brands and come in a good variety of colors and patterns! As far as dividers go, I prefer any of the ones that have the color continued into the tabs. The paper tabs prove flimsy for me, and the clear tabs often allow your label to slip out easily. Avery is the brand I’m most familiar with.
- Miscellaneous: Other items I love to keep on me are washi tape (its just really cute), Master’s Touch wooden cover bullet journal (sturdy and the wood can take paint and ink), and xacto scissors (sharp and durable).
Thrive
My final tid bits that may help you not only do well with organization, customization, and have fun are pretty straight forward. However, I did not know these things:
No one told me that I didn’t need a bin full of office/school supplies… I still have a desk full of various pens, sticky notes and staples that I don’t need. It my sound contradictory to my previous advice, but I mean to say that two of most items will do. I have like 50 old pens and 40 wooden pencils that will never see the light of day. Not to mention a bunch of ribbon, stickers and lanyards.
Buy as much storage as you can. Again, it may seem like the opposite of what’s about but if you can acquire some drawers or shelves (dorm appropriate if applicable) then I say get them! All the previous work and notes from my old class are beginning to pile up, and there’s certain things that I would probably keep. Like my psychology and Spanish notes. Notes pertaining to my major would prove helpful in the future as will be taking multiple classes pertaining to it. And if you’re trying to actually learn a language, looking back over terms and grammatical structures would also be a good idea.
This last hint may stick out more than the others. Make a vision board for yourself! At the start of your first year or even each year, form a collage of your goals, dreams , and accomplishments. For me, it’s a great way to remind myself of where I’m going and how much I’ve progressed. Add photos and words that resonate with you and don’t be afraid to dream big! 
Hopefully with these tips and recommendations, dear reader, you’ll up your game and add more fun to college.
hcxo