We ask Sophia Riaz, a mathematical & computer sciences freshman, and Riyadh Al-Muttaqin, a final-year sociology student, to show us their must-haves for school
by Junn Loh / Photos by Tan Hui Qin / Video by Hanafi Ramdan
SOPHIA’S STAPLES
Rechargeable fan
A great way to stay cool and comfortable in hot, humid weather.
Claw clip
The quintessential 90s hair accessory is back in trend. Chic and effortless to wear, it keeps your hair out of the way when you’re moving about.
Tote bag
Functional and practical, this is perfect for carrying all your university essentials and doubles up as a grocery bag too.
Notebook
The traditional pad is still Sophia’s notebook of choice. She finds it faster and easier to take down notes and formulae – and to doodle – with pen and paper.
Japanese fan
It’s back to basics when the electric fan’s battery goes flat. Sophia’s stylish hand fan is a souvenir from her pre-university family trip to Kyoto.
RIYADH’S STAPLES
Tumbler
Staying hydrated is easy with plenty of water coolers around NTU. Riyadh’s flask spots a Pokémon-like character sticker designed by a friend.
Noise-cancelling headphones
There’s always something happening on the NTU smart campus, but sometimes you need to drown out the hustle and bustle to focus on your work.
Reusable cup sleeve
Lightweight and portable, this is handy to have as the fabric absorbs condensation from Riyadh’s fave ice-cold drink and protects his hand when the beverage is piping hot.
Film camera
Say cheese! Some of your best memories are made in university and Riyadh hopes to immortalise these cherished times.
“I got this while on exchange in Canada and I now take it to class to snap photos of friends.”
Medicine bag
Always prepared, Riyadh keeps this packed with useful items like antihistamines, paracetamol, lip balm, tissue and more.
This story was published in the Sep-Oct 2023 issue of HEY!. To read it and other stories from this issue in print, click here.
