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Back to School Shopping: What are the Essentials?

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It was always with great anticipation and excitement that I went shopping for back to school supplies and clothes as a child and later as a parent. When you shop for back to school items for college, there are some important considerations that will affect your college success.

Comfortable clothes will allow you to concentrate in lectures and feel confident when socializing with your friends on campus. Although my daughter has doubts, you CAN find cute clothes that are also comfortable. If you've ever suffered all day with a skirt or pants that were too tight or a short skirt that was questionable before you left home but as the day unfolds, reveals more than just your bad taste, then you know what I mean. One young lady walked into my class last semester wearing a skirt that was so short that the whole class and I were distracted until she safely navigated herself into her seat without revealing all of her cheeks. Or what about the young lady who just had to have those five inch tall wedge sandals, but after an hour was carrying them as she walked barefoot across campus.

It's much easier to be comfortable and fashionable than it once was since loose fitting and casual styles rule the day. But be careful guys--having your baggy pants drop to your ankles as you stride across campus may bring a big laugh from onlookers and will probably be embarrassing to you. You would also do well to buy moderately-priced clothes that are washable rather than dry-clean-only since you'll be sitting in all types of places, sometimes on the grass or damp benches. Even in the summer, it's a good idea to bring a sweater or light jacket to class since air conditioning can be very cold even when it's blistering outside. My classroom, for example, seems to have only two temperatures: too cold or too hot. Those young ladies shivering in their spaghetti strap tops will testify that when you're uncomfortable or your clothes are demanding your attention, you cannot focus on college

A three-ring notebook is still one of the most important school supplies. College teachers often distribute numerous handouts offering additional information on your subject. You need a safe place for your notes and an accessible storage for your graded papers and returned tests. Every semester there are always a few of my students who try to stuff all of their work into Peechee folders or spiral notebooks, only to get frustrated when they can't find what they need at the time they need it. The students at the top of the grade curve seem to be the ones who keep their materials organized. A three-ring notebook (about 2" ) for each class is invaluable and will stave off much frustration and lost time frantically searching for things.

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