Seven Staples You Must Pack for the University of Michigan

As the last days of summer slip by, packing for another chaotic, challenging, but treasured year at the University of Michigan ensues. It’s my third year partaking in the journey from California to Michigan, and these are the things I deem worthy of earning precious suitcase real estate this year.

1. A school bag capable of carrying your entire life 

Rushing to and from class, club meetings, study sessions, and coffee chats, the semester’s success can be reliant on whether your bag can both handle your schedule… and the weather. Pick a purse or backpack that speaks to who you are because it speaks volumes to your own style, even on days when all you can pull on are sweatpants. One essential feature for a school bag in Michigan is a zipper. Snow, rain, sleet—all are inevitable, and showing up to class with a water-damaged laptop is not necessarily ideal.

2. Headphones for the speedwalks or phone calls en route 

I carry my headphones everywhere, either for the album I picked for my walk to class or to call and catch up with my friends from home. Earbuds or any other variant are essential, and they make all the difference when it comes to a short walk to class. 

3. Boots made for walking through any weather condition 

While purchasing a pair is not necessary for the first few months, it will absolutely make or break your ability to walk even five minutes through Ann Arbor. I’ve come to accumulate multiple pairs; however, you really need one solid pair that could be styled day, night, and everything in between. You want to be prepared for the first rainstorm and prevent any possibility of kicking water onto yourself. A personal favorite of mine are Doc Martens. The styling possibilities are endless, and they truly are worth every penny. While breaking into any pair of boots is a feat, you will be free to walk on ice with no slips.

4. Sweaters, sweaters, and more sweaters 

Over the past few years, I have accumulated sweaters of any and all styles and colors. They are perfect for layering either as a layer for the freezing classrooms or even underneath your coat when the wind turns cold. And although they take up space in a closet, you will find yourself reaching for one almost every day. They add texture to every outfit and double-task as comfort for the cold.

5. Business casual outfit 

We would not be talking about Michigan school essentials without mentioning business casual. If you are at a recruitment, networking event, summit, job fair, or just about anything planned by the school, chances are, the dress code is business casual. Investing in dress pants and some kind of semi-formal top will go a long way here. Underdressing can be detrimental to both your first impression and even confidence. Sourcing a variation of business casual attire that feels true to how you wish to present yourself will certainly come in handy here.

6. LOTS of Maize and Blue

Being prepared for any Michigan gameday calls for dressing in spirit. At U of M, gameday outfits are a heavily meditated affair. Regardless if you plan outfits or choose to wing it the day of, having options is relieving. Again, weather is a factor, and you never quite know what surprise is outside of your front door. Many have various shoes, tops, and even jackets that can withstand any sort of gameday, whether it is 80º or even 30º at the Big House. Bonus points if your selection grows with that addition of your roommate/s collection.

7. Emergency Kit for anything and everything

With classes, back-to-back with the library, and more classes—you can only prepare for so much. A little cosmetics/emergency bag can go a long way. Touch-ups, hair ties, a charger, and anything else that you will need throughout the day can rescue you from a bad day. Even on nights out, it will never hurt to have any form of overdose reversal. With the amount of germs spreading in dorms and classrooms, cough drops, a mask, or any other medications can be a dire necessity.