Things I never thought I would need in Uni

 Designed by Freepik 

Through the three years I have (thankfully) managed to pass in university, I have come to realize that there are certain items you should never leave without before stepping outside your house. It is a wild, wild world out there and these items can help you survive the jungle.

Umbrella

This is a no-brainer no matter where you live in this world. An umbrella can protect you and your precious items from the rain and the sun! When the temperature hit 40 degrees in Islamabad and I had to trek across my campus 10 minutes to be able to go out an umbrella could have been helpful. Similarly, you never know when it’s going to rain or pour, an umbrella should always be the first thing on your bag.

Emergency Cash

Look, I know it is very difficult to not spend money but I have a trick for you. Always keep a small amount of money in your Careem or Uber app in case you need to go somewhere. Hide money in a corner of your bag which you know will require effort for you to find, or get a wallet with a zip. Believe me, money can be a life saver when you’re in a pinch.

Lunchbox

After graduating from high school, the first thing I vowed to do was to demand pocket money and not take homemade lunches with me. Unfortunately, no matter what budget my parents give me, it is impossible to fill my belly with the food offered by the university. I really hate admitting but there is only so much junk food you can eat. Also, the lack of cheap food options will make you cry for your mom’s lunchbox.  

Toilet Paper

I know it is overkill to bring your own toilet paper but I have seen too many friends use public toilets and then end up with a UTI. And despite my best efforts, there is just no way, you cannot go to the bathroom when you are outside. So, my own toilet paper is the only solution. Also, it’s a life-saver if you have a cold or if you spilled something on your clothes.

Sturdy Sneakers

Think you can walk in formal shoes or heels? HA HA HA! No, but for real, you will be walking up and down the stairs (but you will never lose weight), rushing across the campus to reach your class on time because of that one teacher who will never mark your attendance if you are not on time, and going to random places with your friends or classmates. So if you want to cry and get blisters on your feet, be my guest. But, sneakers will keep your feet protected from burning concrete during summer and muddy and watery puddles during winter and summer!

Laptop Bag

Look, I know it is a no-brainer for all tech-related majors but even I, as a business student cannot live without a laptop. Believe me, I tried but Word, Excel, and PowerPoint are the bread and butter of university life (besides cheap fries). And, if you are going to buy an expensive laptop then, a sturdy bag can do wonders for you and can hold all of that extra stuff you will be bringing. Even if you are not like me who brings at least two lunches, and a whole toiletry pouch, notebooks, and books, a laptop bag is a necessity.