<p>As a (very excited) incoming freshman who loves to wear sundresses and heels just as much as the next Vandy girl, my question relates to fashion. Im not generally big into the whole imitate your peers mindset, so I feel a little silly for even caring, but I must ask
do most girls at Vandy carry backpacks? Ive heard plenty about the importance which fashion apparently holds at Vanderbilt (although I must point out thatduring the three times I visited the campusthe student body seemed very casual, overall) and Im wondering whether the typical well-dressed Vandy gal carries her books in a tote bag, messenger bag, or traditional backpack.
Im full of pre-move-in-day jitters and shallow little worries like this, so I would appreciate any insight that you all can share. Im seriously contemplating purchasing a rather expensive Northface backpack, so Id basically like to know if this would be a waste or money or a wise purchase.
Thanks all!</p>
<p>Well a "Vandy girl" will carry a tote bag. But seriously, whatever you think you will need. If you're in classes that require heavy textbooks, you might need the backpack to carry them around if you want to study. Do not select something to "imitate your peers".</p>
<p>agreed with silversparkles. id say most of the girls i knew on campus had tote bags that ranged from bags that prominently displayed their "letters" (sorority) to designer bags, vera bradley, and some just had plain tote bags. i think whatever works for you is what's best.</p>
<p>i'm a guy but i had a northface backpack for all 4 years that i still use now. thats the nice thing about a northface, it is costly, but trust me, u will get your money's worth out of it. i used mine daily in college and now i use it for travel probably 5 times a month.</p>
<p>As a girl, I tried the tote bag thing for 2 weeks before I threw in the towel and started carrying a backpack. True, it's not as fashionable, but if you like to follow along in class with your book, it's a must if you have several classes in a row. Especially if you live over on peabody (which you will) and most of your classes are on main (as mine were). Plus, carrying a ton of books on one shoulder is really bad for your back and posture. I decided it was a worthwhile switch and I get compliments on my backpack a lot (it's very "me"- black with green, blue, and purple polka dots) so it's been fine. Just know you might be in the minority.
Mal :)</p>
<p>I think my D ended up with a Vera Bradley tote. Then again she'll still run around in her rainbows, shorts and t-shirt on campus too so who knows.</p>
<p>Aw, thanks to everyone who answered (including through private messages).
Since I actually already own a large-ish Vera Bradley bag, I'll probably stick to it for now. It's a win-win situation, I guess...I get to fit into Vandy's mainstream idea of fashionable (being a confornmist and carrying the tote and all, lol) and save eighty-five bucks :)
I think instead of a North Face backpack, I'll invest in one more tote that can double as a bookbag/purse...there are some majorly discounted designer bags at a couple local stores.
Really girls, you should take a moment to check out your local T.J.Maxx (sp?) and Marshalls before heading off to school!</p>
<p>I would recommend a red wagon. maybe a golf cart if you're taking over 18 credit hours. if none of these work you should try a camel.</p>
<p>^ hmm...
Fortunately, I'm just taking 13 credit hours this first semester.
But I'll look into getting an elephant for spring.</p>
<p>transfermal probably has the best advice</p>
<p>OMG--I mean reallllllly! This thread is Vanderbilt in a nutshell!</p>
<p>WOW...that's all I can say...who cares?</p>
<p>My daughter is a junior at Vandy and has carried a Northface backpack the whole time. Too many books for a tote bag!</p>