University is a whirlwind of activities. From coursework to socialising to the students’ union, it’s a pretty exciting time of your life. But fail to plan, and you could be heading down one long and exhausting road.
Luckily for us, we are living in an incredibly technologically-advanced time, equipped with nifty gadgets of every kind to help see us through. Our hectic schedules could do with some help from machines, helping us speed through the endless textbooks on our reading list, write that 2,000-word assignment and last but not least, survive the infinite student hangovers with Netflix and chill.
With so many options for devices on the market, it can be tricky to know what exactly you need right at this moment. Plus, your budget is tight so you gotta be strategic so your limited cash can stretch to the things you really need.
If you’re trying to figure out exactly what you need and what will fit your budget, take our quiz to find out!
1. Does your course require you to conduct lots of research?
2. Pick from the following an activity that best describes your leisure time in college:
3. Does your course require you to use your laptop for long periods of time?
4. Are you constantly surrounded by noise that disrupts your studies?
5. In what form do you submit your research papers?
6. Which of the following best describes your student diet?
7. Do you find it easy or difficult to wake up for classes scheduled early in the morning?
Which tech gadgets do you need most in university right now?
Laptop
First of all, congratulations for making it this far without one! Most, if not all, university courses will benefit greatly from their students owning a laptop to research, study, print - you name it. If cost is a barrier, check out second hand units or ask about your university's hardship funds.
Fitbit
University can be a highly stressful time, and when you add the soaring cost of healthy food, it's no wonder that it can be so easy to pile on the pounds. A FitBit One can help you track steps, distance, calories burned and stairs climbed so you can easily monitor how much you're eating and burning.
Kindle
Your course obviously carries a heavy load of reading. While books can be great to hold (and smell), a lightweight and comfortable gadget that can cram a thousand books into one would be a welcome addition. For low budgets, opt for the Basic, or if you have more cash to burn, go for the Paperwhite or luxury Oasis models.
Noise-cancelling headphones
Your roommates, friends and bustling campus make this a no-brainer must-get investment for you. For peace of mind and the availability to study anywhere you want, Bose's QuietComfort 35 Series II and its more affordable alternatives are some of the top choices you should consider.
Lap Desk
Your course needs you to be mobile and your back is killing from sitting on so many uncomfortable chairs. A solution to this is a laptop tray/desk which will work wonders for long-term comfort and posture health. On top of that, it helps with heat damage too, preventing the buildup of dust and heat.