Back to school checklist

Whether it's heading to the first day of kindergarten or off to college the game has changed a lot in recent years and so has what you'll need to succeed.  We have compiled a short list of tech items to help you get ahead and stay ahead without adding any undue stress!  Take a look at our checklist below and know that you can find an assortment of these items on our site to fit your needs.

1. Laptop or Tablet: A crucial tool for success from taking notes to completing assignments and even accessing online resources. Choose one that suits your needs for portability and performance.

2. Headphones or Earbuds: A great way to listen to lectures, participate in online classwork, tuning out distractions in study sessions, or even to help relax as you are trying to wind down after a difficult day.

3. External Hard Drive or Cloud Storage: Can't have enough space to save and backup all your hard work, there is a large variety of drive size to meet your needs whether it's a single paper or the whole catalog of your school work.

4. USB Flash Drive: Handy for transferring files between computers or sharing documents with classmates.

5. Printer: Many of your teachers will only ask you to submit a digital copy of your work but don't count on them all.  Also handy if you prefer having hard copies of assignments or need to print out study materials.

6. Note-taking Apps: Consider apps like Evernote, OneNote, or Notion for organizing and syncing your notes across devices. Store them on your tablet or laptop to keep your classes moving.

7. Calculator: Scientific calculators are a must for most levels of school even if you aren't a science major, but there are additional options to meet your course demands

8. Portable Charger: Keep your devices powered up throughout the day, especially if you're on campus, these device will help you stay ahead of hte lines and ahead of the curve.

9. Desk Lamp: A good quality desk lamp can help reduce eye strain during late-night study sessions.

10. Software: Ensure you have the necessary software installed for your courses, such as Microsoft Office, Adobe Suite, or specific programming tools.

11. Internet Security Software: Protect your devices from malware and ensure safe browsing on public Wi-Fi networks, if you're going to invest in an expensive device it makes sense to protect it.

12. Backpack or Laptop Bag: Choose one that's comfortable and provides adequate protection for your tech gear.

13. Cable Organizers: To avoid tangling and damage, keep cords and cables tidy in your bag or dorm room.

14. Personal Wi-Fi Router (if allowed): Useful for creating a more reliable and secure Wi-Fi connection in your dorm room.

15. Optional: E-reader: An e-reader can be more convenient than carrying physical books if you prefer reading digital textbooks or novels.

Hopefully our list will help you prep for school so that you can relax and enjoy the rest of summer!