Students offer must-have tips / LJWorld.com

So, you think you are prepared for your first year at Kansas University.

Students at the Kansas Union offer the following essential items for KU newcomers:

Cell phone

"It allows you to keep in contact with parents and friends: It's good when you work with groups or you get in trouble and need a ride home."

- Sara Koven, Overland Park junior

IPOD

"Because it's very handy to listen to music with all the walking you do on campus. Helps pass the time between classes."

- Tamara Onken, Lawrence freshman

Laptop

"There are not enough computers for students who need them. This is one of the things they really don't stress."

- Miles Krouse, Peoria, Ill., graduate student

Car

"Just to get around everywhere. People are always asking for rides.

- Kyle Geiken,

Burnsville, Minn., sophomore

Bus pass

"When it's winter and cold outside you can't walk from the dorms."

- Marc Tumanut,

Kansas City, Mo., junior

Phone card

"In case something goes wrong with your cell phone, which always happens to me."

- Grant Baumgartner, Leawood senior

Planner

"You get so busy you need something to keep your life organized. You need to write things down."

- Natalie McDonald, Satana sophomore

Bike

"Sometimes it's quicker to get around, especially on campus. It's cheaper because of gas prices and no parking fees."

- Gene Espinoza, Pittsburg sophomore

Walking shoes, backpack

and water bottle

"Heels aren't going to get you around campus. You need a good backpack to carry all those books from Watson (Library)."

- Erica Gilmore, Iola senior

Students offer must-have tips