Academic Tides | Study Essentials
Hello Everyone,
I hope all is well!
Whether you're prepping for your first semester or you’re deep into your college grind, the tools you bring with you can make all the difference. In this “Academic Tides” entry, I’m sharing the essentials that keep my study life functional, stylish, and low-stress. Think of this as your packing list — neuron elevated.
💻 1. Laptop
The brain of your academic setup. Choose one that can handle your coursework, video calls, research tabs (plural), and a late-night Netflix or Viki episode or two. I personally use a 16- Inch MacBook Pro, but any laptop with solid battery life, speed, and durability will do.
For Apple, there is a student page that allows you to obtain a device and all their pro applications at a discount.
✏️ 2. iPad or Tablet
A lightweight companion to your laptop — perfect for note-taking, textbook reading, and planning. I love digital annotating and journaling on mine. Bonus: pair with a stylus and a matte screen protector for a paper-like feel. I personally use a 13-Inch IPad Pro, but any tablet with solid battery life, speed, and durability will do.
🎒 3. Backpack or Tote (My Top 5 Picks)
You need something reliable and expressive. Here are five I love:
Fjällräven Kånken – Clean, timeless, and fits everything.
Telfar Medium Shopper – It’s a moment.
Herschel Classic XL – Affordable with room to spare.
Dagne Dover Dakota – Comfy straps, smart storage.
Cuyana System Tote – For professional-chic days.
📔 4. Planner
Time management = peace of mind. Whether you’re into bullet journaling or minimalist blocks, having a planner (physical or digital) is key. I juggle both: a digital planner on my iPad and a paper one for tactile focus.
🖊️ 5. Pens, Pencils & Highlighters
A well-stocked pencil pouch is peak academic joy:
Muji gel pens (trust me)
Zebra Mildliners for dreamy highlighting
Mechanical pencils (0.5mm is chef’s kiss)
One fat marker pen for headings or rage-doodles
🎒 6. Pencil Case & Tech Case
Pencil Case: Go clear or get cute.
Tech Case: For your stylus, flash drives, USB-C adapter, and spare charger. I love options from Bellroy and Baggu.
🧮 7. Calculator
If you're in a STEM class or need to double-check your monthly budget, a good calculator (like the TI-84) still earns its place.
📎 8. Mini Stapler, Scissors & Tape
You’ll never realize how much you need these until it’s 11:53 a.m. and your paper is due at 12. Keep them close.
🔌 9. Chargers, Flash Drives & Adapters
Bring the cables. Pack the spares. Don’t forget:
USB-C adapter
Portable battery
Long phone cord for campus power scrambles
Flash drives for quick transfers and backup
🎧 10. Headphones & Portable Speaker
Study mode = noise-canceling headphones. Break mode = Bluetooth speaker. I rotate between AirPods and over-ear headphones depending on how loud the world is being.
🧠 Bonus Tip: Personalize Your Setup
Organize your desk, light a candle, toss in some sticky notes and a reusable water bottle. It’s your space. Make it functional and feel like you.