Here are 10 items you need before joining Bournemouth University

The stress of realising that you have left an essential item at home is a universal experience that we all have faced at one point in our lives. Whether forgetting to bring suncream to the beach or even going on a shopping trip without your wallet, it can turn a relaxing day into a turmoil of frustration and panic. For new students who are already anxious about leaving home for the first time, forgetting an important item is the last thing they want- especially as they can’t pop back home to get it. Therefore, I have conjured a list of the top 10 forgettable items to bring to Bournemouth University in September that can change your Freshers’ experience.

1. Speaker

The first item might be a common one but can easily be overlooked: A speaker. Being the person with the speaker during Freshers’ Week is a way to break the ice with your flatmates and allow you to elevate your pres. It is also the perfect opportunity to show off your musical taste!

2. Sliders/ slippers

I believe every university student living in accommodation should bring either sliders or slippers with them. If you are unfortunately placed with some messy flatmates, student accommodations can become very grubby, especially the shared kitchen! Getting yourself some footwear will not only protect your feet but give you some peace of mind.

3. USB

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USB sticks are the underappreciated items that many students forget about but unfortunately, you cannot always rely on your trusty laptop. I have heard too many horror stories about an accident involving a spilt drink or a student’s laptop crashing midway through an essay that is due in a couple of days. Trust me, USBs are ridiculously cheap so I would highly recommend that you invest in some and back up your work!

4. Extra bedsheets

If there is one item from my list that you should 100 per cent bring to university with you is extra bedsheets. Attempting to strip your sheets, wash, dry and then put them back on your bed before you fall asleep should itself be a category in the Olympics. Investing in a spare set will make your life so much easier and you won’t have to cry when it comes to wash day!

5. Coat

Bournemouth in the winter months can become very cold. There have been many occasions where I have been unable to feel my toes or ears whilst waiting for my bus. A coat does not have to break the bank, especially before you even get your student loan, but I recommend buying one over the summer whilst the prices are still low!

6. Medicine

Imagine lying in bed, either showing the early signs of the flu or hungover from the too many shots you have had the night before and realising you do not have any painkillers or Lemsip with you. Unfortunately for many, you can’t message your mum to run and grab you some so ensure you stock up before you come to university to avoid this from happening.

7. Pack of cards

A pack of cards can transform a conversation full of awkward pauses and blank stares into the perfect opportunity to break the ice with other students. Even if you are like me and your only card game knowledge lies with Go Fish, it allows you to bond with the new students and even learn more games. You can even upgrade and bring UNO and show off your competitive side.

8. Extension leads

An item that many of us take for granted. Some student accommodations only have one or two plug sockets, leaving you with the decision to either blowdry your hair or charge your phone. Make the right decision and bring the extension lead!

9. Decoration

A lot of new students’ favourite part of moving away from home is the chance to decorate their room. A chance to escape the turquoise room your parents painted when you were 11 and time to express your Pinterest board. There are many ways you can make your room feel homely from fairy lights to plotted plants; the room is your canvas.

10. Picnic blanket

The final item I insist on bringing is a picnic blanket! From the gardens to the beach, Bournemouth is full of places where you and your friends can sit down and relax. And if you are like me and detest sand and grass stains, a picnic blanket is highly recommended.

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