Poppy’s Uni-ssentials: A whiteboard, air freshener and a onesie

1. A Whiteboard

Let’s face it, whiteboards are by far the most interesting way to note down your ‘to-dos’ ; and when the writing is (quite literally) on the wall it makes remembering those little things, that may otherwise have slipped your mind, all the more unavoidable. I’m not talking large scale here, so there’s no need to worry about space – in fact if anything it’ll make your room tidier and free from looking as though it has been attacked by a vicious swarm of post-it notes. There’s also the added bonus of physically being able to see your dreaded coursework deadlines being wiped away into oblivion. If nothing else, having a whiteboard in your room makes for an easy way to decorate; just make sure you keep your whiteboard pens safely hidden from any rogue housemates – or be prepared to face the consequences…

2. Air Freshener

A combination of a window that won’t fully open, alcohol abuse and whatever comes along with it, and the constant waft of experimental student cooking, can only add up to one thing – a room that isn’t going to smell quite as fresh as it probably should. Invest in a plug-in air freshener or diffuser to help make your room one that you actually can bear being in and that you won’t mind having guests in. It’ll also put your parents’ minds at rest and give the illusion that you can vaguely look after yourself. Air fresheners can surprisingly also be a great talking point (depending on what kind of friends you want to make); hearing your new flatmate’s parents telling you they can’t come out of their room because they’re organising their air fresheners is always a great indicator that you’re going to have a fun packed year!

3. A Onesie

Coming in a range of designs, sizes and animal prints, the onesie is the ultimate multi-purpose student essential. Fear no more about heating bills – armed with a onesie you’ll stay toasty no matter what the weather, making it ideal loungewear. However, contrary to popular belief, a onesie isn’t just an in-house essential; it also makes suitable outwear as part of a perfect fancy dress costume. Whether it’s Halloween, a pyjama party, or just general dressing up, a onesie will never let you down when you need to come up with themed attire in a limited amount of time!