While I'm not the most technologically-advanced person, I do realize there are some gadgety must-haves for the new school year. Here are a few of my favorites:

Rise-and-shine machine:
If you don't have issues waking up for your 8 a.m. classes, then you are one of the extremely lucky ones. If you're like the rest of us and need that extra nudge in the morning, a decent alarm clock will definitely make life much easier. I recently bought the Sony Speaker Dock/Clock Radio for iPod ($79.95 at www.sonystyle.com) and it has made many a grumpy morning 50 times more pleasant than they would have been otherwise. Waking up to your own set of tunes flowing through a pretty good set of speakers is definitely better than ear-drum busting alarm jangles or sleeping through your entire day.

Communication device:
The new iPhone 3G (starting at $199 and available at many major electronics stores) is literally your entire life wrapped up in a tiny little package. It's your primary form of communication, and contains your music, photos, calendar, e-mail, camera and the Internet. You can do just about anything short of creating your own personal nuclear warhead with this fantastic little device. Plus, it has a slim, attractive physique that makes this cell ultra-chic.

Instant Top Ramen cooker:
Call me crazy, but having my own personal water-boiling contraption was my absolute savior during my freshman year in the dorms. This way you can make all the tea, ramen, Cup Noodles and instant oatmeal you want without ever leaving your room! My favorites are the Kalorik Jug Kettle ($19.99) and the Bodum Mini Ibis Electric Water Kettle ($29.99). Both are available at www.target.com.

Book-carrying vessel:
It's essential for you to have a good bag to carry around all of your books, computer, iPod, sandwich, etc. during your college years. The Targus XL Notebook Backpack ($57.88 available at www.walmart.com) will take care of all of your needs with its heavy-duty stature, many pockets and adjustable padded straps. Just don't break your back with too much stuff - trust me, it's not worth the chiropractor bills.
jswindle@dailyemerald.com

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