I’m heading back to campus this week … well virtual campus that is. So with that in mind, I have curated a list of a few back to school essentials, grad school edition. I thought this list could help anyone who might find themselves in a similar situation. My virtual classroom is a little more new age than the brick walls, covered in ivy, autumn leaves and the nice scarves that I had in my head when I envisioned grad school, but I’m going to make the most of it. Of course, my back to school list is also a little different than what would normally come to mind when you think grad school, but here it is.
A Pretty Desk & Chair
This is so important. Honestly this was at the top of my “back to school” list. I bought a super cute new white desk with gold hardware and a very modern blue velvet chair. Over the next little while I know I am going to be spending a lot of time in this work space so it is really important to me that it’s a nice place to be in. The drawers on the desk are also a really great size and fit all my textbooks and notebooks. This is a big deal to me because I hate a cluttered/disorganized desk. Also, the height of the desk is perfect for having my camera on and doesn’t leave you reaching for a stack of books to get a flattering angle for your chin (iykyk).
Let me just spend a minute on my new chair too because it deserves some love. If you have to sit and be on camera you’re going to want to be doing it in this chair. The description says “the thing about this executive chair is you’re going to be spending a lot of quality time with it. Your cheeks will thank you for this one. Upholstered in durable and soft fabric for comfort. You could lean back into the supportive high back and armrest while you take that important call, then tackle your workload without distractions.” I wholeheartedly endorse this statement. It’s also beautiful.
Modern Office Décor
Another one that was at the top of my list but might not be super important to everyone was modern décor. Again, I am going to be spending a significant amount of time in my office so the way it looks is important. An easy way to stay inspired is being in a beautiful space. If you’re headed back to school and know you’ll need to get your creative juices flowing make sure your office is well decorated. I recently ordered a few prints and put up a gallery wall. This was a total game changer to my plain white wall and looks so modern. I also used some coffee table books, some greenery and a modern lamp. These small touches really brought together what was a very plain looking room.
A Large Mug
I know I have said this before in my WHF essentials post but please let me say it again, get a big mug! You’re going to want to stay caffeinated but also remember to stay hydrated! Having a mug with a little inspiring quote is a really way to add a little pep in your work/school/life routine (all of the lines are blurred). I have a couple really cute ones that I LOVE and have written about previously, but check out these on Amazon if you’re in the market for a new one yourself.
A Business Casual Wardrobe
How you present yourself is everything. Especially when it can be so hard to build rapport and make connections given the virtual environment. My go to trick has been simply adding a blazer or cardigan to any of my casual outfits. As someone who has been working from home for the better part of two years my wardrobe isn’t exactly full of office attire anymore. However, having a few blazers and cardigans to wear over casual shirts and dresses has been a real game changer. Just one simple piece of clothing can change your whole look.
Airpods
Airpods are truly a must for everyone’s back to school list. Whether you’re taking calls, listening to online lectures or your just need to get some work done noise free, you need airpods. I must admit that I am very hard on my airpods and have gone through several sets, I think that says more about me than the quality of the product though. The reason for this is because I can’t stop wearing them. They are perfect for running and walking too (although I think that this ages them faster so prepare for that)! Note that not all airpods are created equally. My advice is invest in the “airpods pro” because the sound canceling feature comes in so handy. I have had both generations of airpods and am much happier with the “pros.”
So there you have it! My back to school essentials grad school edition. These essentials will have you prepared for a very pretty and smart school year. All the best to everyone heading to class this week! If you’ve got some things on your list that I missed please let me know in the comments below. I’d love to know how everyone is preparing for the school year ahead.
