Why a Laptop is Essential for College Life

As a senior who’s lived through multiple years in the dorms, I can confirm that a laptop is one of the most critical college essentials you’ll need. Beyond just taking notes in class, your laptop becomes your entertainment center, research station, and social hub in your dorm room essentials setup.

You’ll use it daily for:

• Writing papers from your dorm instead of trekking to the computer lab at 2 AM
• Taking notes during lectures
• Collaborating on group projects via Zoom
• Streaming shows from your lofted bed
• Managing course materials through your university’s online platform

Most professors expect digital submission of assignments, and many integrate online quizzes and discussion boards into their courses. Having your own laptop gives you the flexibility to work anywhere on campus, whether it’s your dorm room, the library, or the campus coffee shop.

Trust me – while you can technically survive using only the campus computer labs, having your own laptop will make your freshman year infinitely smoother.