how to become a straight a student

30 Things a New College Student Can't Live Without

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There are a million things a student needs to prepare for college. Getting a degree may mean living away from home long-term for the very first time, and you or your child may also be learning how to deal with a roommate, laundry and more. If you want to make sure things start off on the right foot, consider getting these 30 items a new college student can't live without.

Noise Cancelling Headphones

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Unless you lucked out with a single dorm room, you're going to have a roommate, which makes having a pair of noise-cancelling headphones essential. These Mijiaer Active Noise Cancelling Headphones deliver superior sound quality and a comfortable, adjustable fit at a fraction of the usual cost.

The lightweight design makes them great for carrying around campus, and it features a built-in microphone for hands-free calling. A full charge lasts for almost 40 hours (a microUSB charger is included) and only drops down to 20 hours in active noise cancellation mode. Cushioned earpads and a 90 degree swivel design ensure a perfect fit every time.

Desert Vibes

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Dorm rooms are, by design, bland and boring affairs that feel nothing like home. This colorful, oversized Arfbear Cactus Tapestry is a great way to spruce things up and make a concrete, cookie-cutter room feel more personal. While drilling holes into dorm room surfaces is generally not a good idea, this item can still be easily fixed to a wall using a sturdy adhesive or wall hook.

Measuring a generous 60 by 78 inches, the tapestry is made of a lightweight, machine-washable poly material and can also be used as a blanket, bed cover or beach coverup. The possibilities are endless.

Get Cozy

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After a stressful day of classes, there's nothing better than curling up in bed with a cozy blanket and binging on Netflix. This Genteele Reversible Sherpa has super-soft Sherpa material on one side and velvety micro-cashmere on the other. You'll reach new levels of coziness at any time of day.

The lightweight plush material is machine washable and won't fade, pill or shed on clothes and bedsheets. Its oversized design measures 50 by 60 inches and can double as a duvet cover or bedspread. And don't worry about allergies or other irritants — it's hypoallergenic, so you can rest easy.

Keep It Clean

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College is often a rude awakening for adolescents when it comes to laundry. Fortunately, this Mesh Pop-Up Laundry Hamper makes it easy to store and carry laundry, and thanks to its space-saving pop-up design, it won't take up precious real estate in small dorm rooms.

The hamper measures 24.5 by 14.5 by 14.5 inches, which is large enough to handle a week's worth of clothes and towels. The handy pocket on the side is perfect for storing detergent, fabric softener and other laundry essentials. Shoulder-length carrying straps help navigate stairways and elevators with ease.

So Fresh, So Clean

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Gone are the days of long showers in private bathrooms with ample space for toiletries. Dorm room bathrooms are typically shared, utilitarian affairs, so portable storage like this stylish Okroo Shower Caddy Tote is necessary to keep all your bath essentials in one handy, portable place.

Made with a breathable mesh, this caddy has multiple exterior pockets for shaving cream, shampoo, conditioner and more. The main compartment is ideal for storing loofahs, sponges and washcloths — there is even a secret pocket for storing valuables like cellphones and jewelry! The stylish striped handles are durable and add a fun pop of color.

The Secret Storage Solution

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You know how IKEA showrooms often make even the smallest of spaces look comfortable and liveable? They often use a lofted bed in order to maximize storage. While you probably can't get away with that in a dorm, these Premium Adjustable Bed Risers are the next best thing.

They're simple to install and require no tools or assembly — just lift up the bedpost and slip the risers under the bed feet, which are made of durable plastic and have a recessed interior designed for a secure fit. They won't scuff or scratch the floor and can be removed or readjusted in minutes.

Stay Cool

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Few dorms have central air or great ventilation systems, which means the air can quickly grow stale and stuffy. This Mini Portable Desk Fan from PXTAI keeps air circulating wherever you need it, thanks to a portable design and fully rotatable head.

Just charge the fan using the included USB cable to enjoy the fan's quietly powerful breeze for up to eight hours; the indicator light will tell you when it's time to recharge. There's a hook to hang the fan from above, and the base also functions as a clip-on attachment.

Breathe Deep

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Sure, your dorm room was cleaned before you moved in, but how are you going to make sure it stays allergen- and irritant-free? This compact yet powerful HEPA Air Purifier filters out more than 99 percent of dust, pollen and mold spores for a fresher, cleaner room.

The sleek control panel lets you choose from three settings — low, medium and high — and you can activate UVC-light mode to wipe out bacteria, germs and nasty viruses with an energy-efficient timer. An indicator light lets you know when it's time to change the filter, and the entire unit is backed by a five-year warranty.

Live Out Loud

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The days of lugging around cumbersome stereo equipment are over thanks to portable Bluetooth speakers like the Anker SoundCore. It delivers clear, powerful sound from the dorms to the quad and beyond. This unit features a weather-resistant coating and provides long-lasting playtime. One charge can last for up to 24 hours!

The bass comes through evenly thanks to an advanced digital signal processor that pumps up the volume without sacrificing clarity or intensity. An ultra-stable Bluetooth connection and extended range means you'll never have to worry about the sound cutting out right at your favorite part.

Stay Caffeinated

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Some days, you wake up bright and early, ready to tackle the day. Other days, there's barely enough time to brush your teeth before class, which makes having a coffee maker in your room, like this classic Chemex Classic, crucial.

If you have a microwave, stick a toothpick in a mug of water and heat it for 3 to 4 minutes. Put the grounds in a filter, pour the hot water over the grounds, and a few minutes later, you've got a freshly brewed cup of coffee that's better than anything in the dining hall.

The Perfect Weekender

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Whether you're going home for the weekend or taking a spontaneous road trip with friends, a roomy and stylish weekender bag is a college must-have. This canvas bag from CAMTOP fits everything you need, from clothes to toiletries, with style. It can also be used as a gym bag or for extra storage.

The sturdy canvas won't tear or rip and features a zippered exterior pocket and solid copper that won't rust or wear. You can carry it using the adjustable shoulder strap or by the wrapped top handles. Multiple interior pockets keep everything from travel documents to phones handy and secure.

Support Yourself

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For the student who does their best reading and studying in bed, this triangular support pillow will lessen strain on the neck and back for a better, more comfortable study session. Plus, it doubles as a decorative headboard and comes in a variety of sizes for a perfect fit.

The soft, corduroy cover is removable and machine washable — just throw it in the wash on the gentle cycle and dry on low heat. The wedge shape is ideal for reducing muscle strain and can also be used for leg support.

Show Off Friends and Family

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It can be hard being away from friends and family for the first time, so put loved ones on display with this Mkono Hanging Photo Display. It will instantly brighten up any room and comes with 25 wooden clips that you can use to create a custom work of art from treasured photos, concert tickets or anything else near and dear.

The display is made with wooden dowels and cotton cord tassels that are so lightweight, all it needs to stay up is a push pin! Use the included clips to switch out photos often, or leave it bare for a minimalistic look. Either way, this is a stylish and functional addition to any dorm.

Brighten Up Your Space

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Simply put, dorm rooms are ugly. It can be hard to feel at home in a nondescript box that's remained the same despite so many other students having stayed there before. Fortunately, one of the easiest ways to transform such a bland space is to add a humble area rug, like this one from Safavieh.

The plush jute fiber adds warmth to any room and feels great on your feet, while the stylish abstract pattern helps to break up the visual monotony. The rug measures three feet in diameter, making it the perfect accent rug for any size room.

Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star

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Dorm room lights can be harsh and unflattering, so soften the lighting scheme with these twinkling string LED lights from Ylife. Their low voltage means they stay cool to the touch, so there's no possibility of setting the room on fire.

The bulbs are affixed to a thin, flexible copper wire that can be molded to fit any room, so get creative! Try draping them around a dresser or outline the bed or mirror — 33 feet of lights means there's no limit to what you can create.

Sweet Dreams

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There's no getting around it: Dorm beds are pretty rough. When you have a stiff, all-purpose mattress that feels more like a torture device than a comfy dream-chamber, a plush mattress topper like this memory foam model from BedStory can ensure a good night's sleep.

Made of two-inch thick, certified memory foam, this topper slowly conforms to the body and helps evenly distribute weight to relieve pressure on the back, knees and shoulders. A ventilated design helps regulate body temperature throughout the night, and the infused aroma of lavender keeps you calm and relaxed. It comes with a machine-washable cover, too.

Burn the Midnight Oil

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Living with a roommate means adapting to their schedule to a degree. If it's time to hit the books when they're ready to hit the hay, keep everyone happy with this clip-on book light from LuminoLight. Its powerful LED light easily lights up a college textbook, while the flexible neck adjusts instantly to any position.

There's never a need to worry about batteries with the LuminoLight since it runs on a fully rechargeable, 1000MAH lithium ion battery that can last for up to 60 hours on the lowest setting (there are four to choose from). It also comes with a microUSB charging cable.

Stay Hydrated

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It seems like such a simple thing, but staying hydrated isn't always easy in the dry, heated conditions of a dorm in winter. A handy trick is to keep a water pitcher on hand. This one from Aquabliss holds up to 10 cups of much-needed water and makes it much more palatable.

Made of BPA-free plastic, this Aquabliss pitcher features a powerful filter that removes chlorine, heavy metals, odors and other contaminants from your water for up to four months. Ditch single-use water bottles and reduce plastic waste by using it to refill reusable containers for hydration on the go.

Protect Your Feet

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An unpleasant fact of college life is that taking a shower in the dorm bathroom is more like being at the gym than back home. Stay protected from germs and bacteria with these antimicrobial water sandals from Showaflops. They're as stylish as they are practical with a trendy pyramid stud design and slip-resistant soles.

Made of a soft and lightweight blend of EVA foam and rubber, these sandals fight mold, fungus and harmful bacteria with antimicrobial layers built right in, and heart-shaped drainage holes in the soles improve airflow. Throw them in a shower caddy to always have them on hand, or toss them in a duffel bag to bring to the gym.

Work Anywhere, Anytime

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Trying to balance a computer or tablet on your lap can be awkward and even painful. Plus, restricted airflow can cause devices to overheat, potentially causing major damage to the fragile components inside.Luckily, this ergonomically-designed lap desk from RelaxTime keeps your tablet or laptop safe and secure (and legs cool!) wherever you go.

The flat hardtop surface has a soft wrist pad that doubles as a bumper to keep things in place, while the cushioned underpad conforms to the legs. The oversized slot at the top is perfect for holding phones and tablets. The entire thing weighs just over half a pound, so it's easy to take for studying on-the-go.

On-the-go Organization

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Made of water-resistant canvas and packed with ingenious features like a built-in USB charger, this Vancropak backpack is designed with students' needs in mind. It's sturdy enough to handle all the books needed for a full day of classes, and stylish enough to keep long after graduating.

The exterior is made with a lightweight but durable material, and the wide, padded shoulder straps help reduce strain on the neck, back and shoulders. The interior has multiple pockets for pens, phones and more with a laptop sleeve fits computers up to 15.6 inches, and the external USB port is perfect for recharging during a long day.

Plug It In

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The 3-outlet surge protector from AmazonBasics is a handy piece of hardware college students can use every day. It helps protect electronics from sudden power surges while adding additional outlets and USB ports for extra charging capacity.

With its sleek profile, it can fit into even the smallest of spaces under a desk, bed or table. The indicator light turns on when its plugged in, and the unit is cETLus-rated for safety. The two USB ports, 1.0A and 2.4A, offer fast, efficient charging of phones, tablets, cameras and more.

Be Your Own Nurse

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Save yourself a trip to the infirmary all the way across campus with this comprehensive first aid kit. From minor cuts and scrapes to burns and headaches, this lightweight and portable kit has everything you need to turn your dorm room into an impromptu doctor's office.

The soft zippered case contains almost 300 pieces of handy first aid items. There are regular bandages, gauze pads and first aid tape for cuts and puncture wounds; aspirin and ibuprofen for aches and pains; and cold packs for burns and swelling. Also included are alcohol wipes, a finger splint, blister pads and a pair of tweezers.

No More Wrinkles

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A full ironing board isn't practical in a dorm room, which is why this travel steamer is a dorm room essential. Instead of dealing with a bulky ironing table, just hang up the item, turn on the steamer, and a few minutes later, that shirt or dress looks like it came straight from the cleaners.

Use tap or distilled water for this handy steamer, which heats up in less than a minute and has no attachments or cups to keep track of. It's also leak-proof and has an automatic shut-off mechanism. Plus, the wide grip handle makes maneuvering around buttons, zippers and delicate details a breeze.

Ditch the Cables

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The more cables you have, the more tangled they get. That's why you should try the PowerWave Pad 10W Max instead. While this fast and efficient charger still needs to be plugged in itself, all you need to do is rest your phone on the charger pad for it to work — no cable needed. The round design doesn't take up too much room, and the charger even works through phone cases up to five millimeters thick.

The charger offers a variety of different modes: a standard 5W mode, a 7.5W mode compatible with iPhone 8 and up and a 10W fast charge mode for Samsung Galaxy phones 5 and up. Safety features include temperature control to prevent overheating, surge protection and a foreign object detector.

The Bedside Helper

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If there's no room for a nightstand to keep a phone and other small items close to the bed, the Bedshelfie is the perfect solution. It quickly attaches to the bed frame with no tools or assembly required and is strong enough to keep books, coffee cups, laptops and more within easy reach.

Using a simple clamp system, the BedShelfie attaches within minutes using plush felt covers to avoid damaging the bed frame. Beautiful natural bamboo and a chic minimal design add a touch of quiet elegance to even the dreariest of dorm rooms. The shelf also has a raised edge to prevent items from spilling and falling off, plus two slots for cables.

No More Mess

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Constantly searching for highlighters or a pencil can be a major distraction while studying, which is why this desk caddy from DecoBros is a dorm must-have. Its compact design doesn't take up much space even as it keeps everything needed within reach.

Made of durable wire mesh, this desk caddy is an all-in-one organizer. There are compartments for pens, pencils and markers as well as sticky notes, scissors and more. If it's important, there's a space for it here, including a removable tray perfect for holding thumbtacks and paper clips.

Sleep in Style

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The right bed sheets, like the right mattress, can make all the difference in getting a good sleep; they should be cool and comfortable (and it doesn't hurt if they're stylish, too). This 5-piece bed-in-a-bag set from AmazonBasics delivers classic style with contemporary comfort and comes with everything you need for a good night's sleep.

Designed to fit twin and twin XL beds, this set is made of soft poly material and is machine washable. Included with it are a comforter (66 by 90 inches), flat sheet (66 by 96 inches), fitted sheet (39 by 80 inches), pillow sham (20 by 26 inches) and pillowcase. Plus, its inexpensive enough to buy a second set for back-up!

Write It Down

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Sure, there are phone apps to take notes, but when trying to coordinate schedules with a roommate or marking off that big game or test, it's easier to go old-school with a dry erase wall calendar. It's a breeze to change from month-to-month, and having a daily visual reminder means you're less likely to forget important dates and events.

The lightweight and flexible vinyl decals easily attaches to the wall with no adhesive or damaging hooks — just peel, stick and you're done! Use colored dry erase markers to keep track of different schedules, or get multiple calendars to keep everything organized.

A Dorm Bathroom Essential

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Along with trusty shower sandals and a toiletry tote, a cozy terry bathrobe is absolutely essential for dealing with dorm bathrooms. It's the perfect pre and post-shower cover-up and helps alleviate the awkwardness of navigating public spaces in your pajamas.

This plush terry robe is as stylish as it is comfortable, with a wide shawl collar, rolled sleeves and two patch pockets in front. The all-cotton construction is super absorbent, dries quickly and is completely machine washable. The tie belt gives the knee-length robe a spa-like look and is removable, too.

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