The following post is from Meg T. who is interning with Reynolds this summer.

The transition from college dorm to cubicle can be difficult. When you are setting up your desk at work, it can be challenging to know what the essentials are. Here are a few necessities to keep you comfortable:

Reusable Water Bottle or Tumbler

Staying hydrated is important. If you have a water bottle, you are far more likely to keep it full and sip it throughout the day. Having a reusable one allows you to stay hydrated and save the planet at the same time. Just remember to clean it out every once in a while!

Business Cards and Resume

Throughout your internship, you will be doing a lot of networking. Make sure you are prepared. Keep business cards on hand to pass along. Your mentor is also a good resource to help proofread and edit your resume for future use.

Legal Pad

Write down notes from meetings and conversations or keep your own to-do lists. It is important to carry your notepad to help you stay organized and remember things later on.

Cardigan or Jacket

If the heat outside is approaching record levels, you might not want to wear long sleeves to work. But, the temperature inside may be much cooler. Keep a light jacket or cardigan at your desk to counterbalance the air conditioning.

An Extra Pair of Shoes

I speak from experience on this one. After walking my dog in a pair of flip flops, I jumped in the car and drove to work. I was already running late. By the time I realized I forgot to change my shoes, I was already at work. Avoid my mishap by keeping a pair of dress shoes or flats in your desk (or even your car). 

Hand Sanitizer

A shared work place is like a school environment: germy. Try to combat illnesses that can easily spread throughout the workplace by simply keeping your hands clean. Wash your hands as often as possible, and when at your desk, use hand sanitizer.

Snacks

Sometimes you need a boost of energy to get you through the day. I find mid-morning that I am hungriest and looking for something to get me through. Keep a few snacks to provide a pick-me-up, such as a granola bar, nut mix, or peanut butter crackers. Just be sure your snacks don’t spoil while you are gone for the weekend.

These are just a few things to keep you comfortable at your home away from home…work.