Last year when my oldest “baby” left for her first year of college I sent her off with a box of office supplies for college students. I had gotten some great tips from friends who already had kids in college. So being the over-prepared mom that I am, I made sure that I prepared her as best I could.
During a college tour, a friend of mine, C., asked the student guide, “What’s the one thing you didn’t bring to college that you wish you had?” The guide answered, “A stapler.” So with that as a starting point, I gathered office supplies my daughter might need in college.
The perfect storage container for these supplies was a photo storage box that was on sale at the craft store. You can pick these up on sale for around $2.
All these supplies fit neatly in the photo storage box.
With all her office supplies in one box, it was easy to move and easy for her to locate exactly what she needed once she got there (and mama was gone).
College Student Office Supplies Shopping List
Photo box for storage
Stapler
Scissors
Tape
Sticky Notes
Pens
Pencils
Highlighters
Eraser
Computer Paper
Post-It Pockets
Command Hooks
Paper Clips
Index Cards
Notebook
Stationery
Envelopes
Did I forget to add anything that you needed as office supplies for college students? 
As you’re getting your “baby” ready for college be sure to check out the pack list for college from Corinne at Wondermom Wannabe to help you and your “baby” get ready for college.
I’m a mom of 3, a veteran and military spouse. I’ve moved into 20+ homes all around the world. My passion is helping busy people make the space and time for what’s really important to them.
Cynthia L says
Susan, I wish I would have seen this when my daughter went to college a few years ago. We tried to make sure we packed everything, but alas, we did not. Guess what one thing we didn’t pack? You are right – a stapler! We also didn’t think about envelopes! Lucky thing she was only a couple hours away and I could get those things to her on my next visit.
susan says
You were so fortunate that she was “near by”. It’s funny that a stapler seems to be the forgotten item for college students.
Mert says
I think a book if stamps would be nice and some address labels 😍
susan says
Book of stamps and address labels are a great idea, Mert. (Guess what I’m going to add to my daughter’s office supplies box this week?)
Norine Acevedo says
Great list! I’d add a planner and a calculator. Oftentimes cell phones aren’t allowed in class, so you won’t be able to use your calculator app on your phone.
Susan says
Thanks for the very useful additions, Norine.