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Grab your Kendra Scott jewelry, glitter skirts and Longchamp bags, because it’s that time of year again: University of Alabama sorority recruitment is officially upon us.
I don’t know about you, but I was totally fascinated by Bama Rush TikTok last year, and this year is shaping up to be no exception, with my For You Page already full of hopeful PNMs and seasoned sorority girls posting “What’s in my bag?” videos, OOTDs, and dances that would take me three weeks to master. Though our college years may be behind us, the TikTok algorithm will be force-feeding us rush content for the foreseeable future, so we might as well embrace it. I mean, this place (Tuscaloosa) has everything: a store called “The Pants Store” that sells way more than pants, fashion trends that make me feel 100 years old, and more drama than an episode of The Real Housewives.
While I’m not about to leave my house decked out in Shein, Golden Goose sneakers, and 14 pieces of “normal” jewelry, these ladies are prepared for anything, and they’ve shown us some genius everyday essentials to have on standby. Here are the invaluable product recommendations that the 18-year-olds on my FYP have imparted upon me.
Life Hack #1
Always carry a personal fan. You never know when you’ll need to keep your cool, and we’ve all shown up to a meeting just a *little* too sweaty from our commute.
Life Hack #2
De-slick setting spray can save your life (and more literally, save your makeup from melting).
Life Hack #3
Listerine tablets are your best friend, especially when you’re meeting lots of new people and need to make a great impression.
Life Hack #4
Liquid IV will keep you hydrated, along with an immune boost that comes in handy when interacting with so many different people.
Life Hack #5
The Gen Z girlies love a water bottle, so obviously you need one, too. Plus, we should all be cutting down on single-use plastics, and you’ll need something to mix your liquid IV in. It’s a win/win/win!
Life Hack #6
Statement jewelry does, indeed, make a statement. A customized bracelet is a great conversation starter, whether you’re at your third rush party of the day, or meeting your boyfriend’s sister for the first time.
Life Hack #7
Who doesn’t like smelling good? These perfume shots for your hair will keep you smelling fresh, and word on the street is that the cupcake scent is the best.
Life Hack #8
You can never have too many totes, and this durable neoprene one is perfect to carry all of your essentials, and then some. Did I mention it has pockets?
Life Hack #9
I know Hailey Bieber wants us to look like glazed donuts, but sometimes you just get a little too dewy. This oil control roller will fix that (and looks kind of fun to use, no?).
Life Hack #10
I’ll know I’m truly an adult when I actually remember to take an umbrella when I leave the house. This mini one fits easily in your tote bag (see above), and will save your hair/mood if you get caught in a storm.
Life Hack #11
Heels aren’t a girl’s best friend when you’re wearing them for 12 hours straight. Plan ahead and skip the blisters!
Life Hack #12
Spray deodorant doesn’t melt in the heat, and that’s a truly priceless quality. Stock up now.
Life Hack #13
You know these sorority girls aren’t making all those TikToks with one charge! Invest in a new portable charger so you’ll always be ready for content creation and/or basic life needs.
Life Hack #14
You need this resetting powder that doubles as sunscreen. Dewy skin, PLUS you’re protected from the elements—need we say more?
Image credit: Wesley Hitt / Stringer; Amazon