‘Essentials’ for students going to university are now ‘lifestyle statements’ instead of basics

THE university student essentials have gone from survival basics to lifestyle statements within 30 years. A poll of 1,200 students past and present found alarm clocks or contact books full of handwritten phone numbers aren’t as vital as they were back in the mid-90s. The university student essentials have gone from survival basics to lifestyle statements within 30 years Credit: SWNS A poll found alarm clocks or contact books full of handwritten phone numbers aren’t as vital as they were back in the mid-90s Credit: SWNS Back then, towels, books, and kettles were considered must-haves for getting through the term – but today laptops, chargers and reusable water bottles have taken their place – with mobile phones, headphones and portable speakers also essential. And while the average pupil 30 years ago would take as many as 10 books for revision and notetaking, today’s only carry three with them as everything is used and kept on a laptop or tablet. Sign up for The Sun newsletter Thank you! Most of those polled (58 per cent) believe university life is more boujee than it was, with nine in 10 Brits believing today’s university students rely more heavily on technology than those who studied three decades ago. When asked about how they prepare their children for university, two thirds of parents (66 per cent) said they believe technology can have a direct impact on their child’s academic success. With 65 per cent agreeing it is one of the most important investments ahead of university. In fact, more than half (55 per cent) of parents said a laptop is the single most important purchase for a child going to university. Annika Bizon, a spokesperson for Samsung, which commissioned this research, alongside the Galaxy Book 6, said: “Thirty years ago, university survival meant a kettle and an alarm clock and something to take notes on. “Today it involves keeping on top of lectures, deadlines, part-time work, family life and the admin like food shopping and bills. Most read in The Sun “Parents understand this and are helping their teenagers be more equipped with the right technology that supports their academic needs and everyday life as they navigate their first years away from home Overall, 85 per cent agreed the average university student’s belongings are different compared with 30 years ago. Only a quarter (26 per cent) of Gen Z students handwrite notes in a notebook, while 19 per cent take notes with a mix of digital and handwritten methods and 43 per cent of Gen Z students use only their laptop for notetaking throughout university. In fact, 67 per cent of Gen Z admitted they couldn’t complete their course without it, according to the research by OnePoll.com However, 35 per cent who attended university more than 30 years ago wished they could have taken a laptop with them. Indeed, the most prioritised purchase for recent university students was a laptop (53 per cent), with bedding (38 per cent), kitchen essentials (37 per cent) and clothing (33 per cent) not far behind. Beyond lectures, students today rely on their laptops to research assignments (76 per cent), keep on top of life admin such as budgeting, timetables and emails (47 per cent), stay connected with family and friends (41 per cent), and stream entertainment (46 per cent). As a result, 60 per cent of Gen Z consider it the most essential university possession, compared to only 24 per cent who consider books most essential. When choosing a laptop for university, more than a quarter (26 per cent) of current and recent students prioritised reliability, long battery life and fast performance. Comment now