The Essentials

Under two months to go until the move into student accommodation, and the planning of what to take and what not to take is under way. Having secured a 'large' studio apartment (in relative terms as far as student halls go!) I've got an unfair advantage over many, insofar as I have more space to put stuff. That said, it's still going to be a squeeze.

There's the basics for a modern student, i.e. a desktop computer and printer, TV and Freeview box, a stereo with speakers, and about 400 power cables for charging all the gadgetry that one accrues. Simple kitchen equipment, i.e. wok, steamer, small frying pan, a couple of saucepans, and an electric frying pan (for awesome paella-making). A couple of suit-cases full of clothing, along with the stupid stuff I own that I'll not wear once in the four years I'm studying but I refuse to part with. For example, a German leather Swagman hat. Bloody pointless and I look stupid it it, but I paid £20 for it and I'm a Yorkshireman at heart!

This is the point, I'm sure, where I depart from the average student's list of possessions and things-to-bring. Not for me a wall covered in posters of the Backstreet Chemical Detectives or the Spice Dolls, or whoever is flavour of the moment. Instead I'll just take my nice (but quite common) 3-foot square print of Audrey Hepburn, and hopefully another of Bouguereau's "The Wave" - if I can get hold of an affordable one in decent dimensions (A0 or bigger). I'd probably do a sex-wee if I could get hold of a high quality large print of Bettie Page's incredible sexy back/arse pose too. Classic beauties, all.

In addition to the prints I'm hoping that I can find an old drinks globe that won't break the bank. They tend to go for around £150 though so maybe I'll have to make do with lining up the whisky, brandy, vodka etc on my desk instead. If anyone knows where I can get a nice vintage number for under £50 I'd be quite grateful!

At this rate of turning retro-chic I might have to grow a handlebar moustache, and buy a smoking jacket.

If there's anything you think is essential for a man of thirty to take with him in order to survive life at university, and I haven't listed it here, please let me know in comments!
(N.B. Tasers are illegal for civilians.)