Things to Bring to College
Confused about what to bring to college? Yet another year, yet another bunch of people worrying about what to pack and what not to. Fret not! Here’s a list of things you need will need in your time here, and directions on where to find them. So, take a pencil and start ticking off those check boxes.
Things available at college
Beds: Many vendors set up shop during admission time selling beds and pillows at fairly reasonable rates. 2K Market (in-campus Big Bazaar) also stocks them throughout the year.
Cycle: This is the most common form of transport in this large campus, and every student is advised to get one. Many shops set up cycle sales which are open for at least a month after college opens. However, we would advise students to arrange for a separate cycle lock (to prevent ‘permanent borrowing’).
Buckets, mugs and a dustbin: 2K Market (at the Shopping Complex) offer buckets and mugs of all sizes and colours. They also sell dustbins, brooms, and dustpans – essentials for every room. Room cleaning essentials like brooms are also available in the store.
Hangars, clips, and clothesline: Hooks are present in every room (if they are not, you could contact the Estate Maintenance Office). A clothesline is present in the corridors, but one could be set up inside the room for the monsoon.
Lab uniform and shoes: The tailoring shop at the Shopping Complex (SC) offers works on a first-come-first-serve basis. Lab shoes are also available in SC.
SIM card: Students who aren’t from Tamil Nadu are advised to procure a local SIM card. Many service providers (Jio, Airtel, Vodafone, BSNL etc) set up shop in the SC and offer deals.
Bank account: SBI has a branch inside the campus at the SC where students have the option of opening a bank account. Students are advised to open an SBI account for convenience inside the campus.
Other miscellaneous items like stationery, toiletries, doormats and insect repellent (you need this!) can all be obtained in 2K.
Things to get from home
Clothes: Trichy is a hot and dry place, so carry plenty of comfortable clothing. Also carry a couple of sets of formal clothing in case the need arises. We celebrate a lot of festivals here at NIT-T, so make sure you carry at least one set of ethnic wear! We advice you to bring more than enough undergarments in case of emergencies.
Passport-size photos: After completing all the admission formalities, it is useful to have a set of passport sized photos. This would be necessary while getting a bonafide certificate and other admin related documents.
Food: Without giving too many spoilers about the quality of mess food, a stash of home food always comes in handy. A set of cutlery (plate, spoon and a fork) would be helpful. A kettle for heating water (or usually Maggi) and some water bottles, and a Jug to keep constant supply of water in the room goes a long way during the summers and winters.
Folders: Carry a folder with you to store all your important documents like identity proofs, fee receipts, grade cards etc.
Medicines and first aid: The campus is equipped with a 24×7 pharmacy, but it is advised that you carry a small first-aid kit with some basic medication like paracetamol, analgesics, antihistamines, antacids and pain spray (for the physically inclined). Sanitary pads from most major brands are available at 2K, but supplies from home would not hurt.
Locks: Despite being available at 2K, we strongly advise you to bring locks from home. You will need:
– 1 room lock with at least 3 keys
– 1 cupboard lock
– 1 cycle lock with spare keys
Scientific calculator: Everyone requires a calculator, so it becomes impossible to borrow one during exam time. We recommend the Casio FX-991.
Shoulder bag: Make sure you have a strong, waterproof shoulder bag to carry your books, assignments, and electronics.
Laptop: It isn’t compulsory to bring a laptop, especially for the first few months. The Octagon (computer center) is open 24 hours and is more than sufficient for most needs. But a personal computer will not hurt. A tablet is a good alternative.
Multi socket hub: Most rooms are equipped with only one plug point per person, having a multi-socket hub becomes very useful. Make sure to purchase one with a fuse.
Umbrella/jacket: It gets pretty wet in the ‘winter’ months, and one can never predict the rains in Trichy. Conversely, the umbrella can also be used to battle the UV during summers. Bringing this is a guaranteed win.
Sports shoes/equipment: The campus is equipped with plenty of facilities for most sports. There isn’t a shop which sells sports gear in campus, so students are expected to bring that from home.
Miscellaneous items:
- Towels
- Bedsheets
- Laundry items – soaps, detergents, conditioners.
- Blankets
- Toiletries
- Pen drive/hard disk
- Earphones/speakers
- Bathroom chappals
Well, that’s all you might require for the time being!