Hi downtown,
It’s that time of year when school is just around the corner. As an incoming Senior at CU, it feels bittersweet knowing this is my last fall semester. With that being said, I’ve created a Back to School Essentials Guide that I wish I had coming into every new year of college.
Starting with the important stuff- books, school supplies, and organization. On the first day of school, you hit the ground running, so keeping track of your class schedule and assignments can get overwhelming, especially when balancing that with work, clubs, friends, and who knows what else. This is why I recommend keeping a calendar or planner to stay organized and on top of things. I found some great planners, notebooks, and calendars at Boulder Book Store, Beat Book Store, and Trident Booksellers & Cafe.
Outside the classroom, organization is also important for a less-stressed semester. After losing my debit card more times than I care to count during my Freshman year, I found it best to keep all my important cards, such as my Buff OneCard, debit card, and license, in a keychain wallet or a wallet holder on the back of my phone. A great place to find cute wallets and lanyards would be Savvy. I also recommend finding a cute, reusable tote bag to keep all your belongings in, which you can take to the Buff Pool, class, or grocery shopping. I saw some cool reversible ones from Island Farm and Fair Trade Winds.
If you're looking to add to your game day apparel or just some Boulder gear and accessories in general, I’d recommend checking out Charlie’s T Shirts, Art Mart, BoCo Life, and Where the Buffalo Roam. If you’re looking for cute going-out outfits for the fall, or you’re in search of that perfect skirt to wear while rushing or taking senior photos, Ellison Rd is where I’d make my first stop.
Now let’s talk about shoes. Coming prepared with a few different shoe options is great. For walking on campus, I’d suggest a comfy pair of sneakers because you’ll be putting in your steps walking to classes every day. I’d also recommend getting a pair of hiking boots if you’re planning on exploring some of the awesome hiking trails Boulder has to offer. Find some good boots so you don't slip down Chautauqua like I did when hiking in sneakers my sophomore year (trust me, it wasn't fun). Visit some of downtown's local shoe retailers, Pedestrian Shops, Two Sole Sisters, and Weekends to find the perfect shoe for you!
I cannot stress this enough: consider renting or buying a bike! CU's campus is very bike-friendly, and so is Boulder. My Freshman year, I rode my bike every day, and it saved me so much time commuting to class and soccer practice. Don’t have a bike? Don’t worry, University Bicycles offers rentals, new bikes, and bike maintenance. Be sure to ask them how to properly lock your bike on campus and around Boulder! Students also get a free BCycle membership that allows you to use the electric bikes for unlimited trips under 60 minutes all around Boulder and on campus, so be sure to sign up!
For a lot of students, college is their first time living on their own. I know first-hand how much houseware you’ll need, and that's why I recommend going to Peppercorn. This is a must-go if you’re looking for anything from plates and bowls to lemon squeezers and a nice set of pots and pans.
Decoration is also important, so don’t forget to swing by Art Mart, PosterScene, and Art Source International.
I hope this Back to School Essentials Guide helps, downtown. And I wish those of you going back to school a great school year! As always, shop locally owned, support small businesses, and SKO BUFFS!
Till next time,
Wylie