I shopped at Trader Joe's as a broke college student — now I make six figures. Here are 11 things I still buy there.

Aleenah AnsariMar 30, 2024, 01:53 IST

Trader Joe's has a lot of good products for busy students and workers. Aleenah Ansari

I shopped at Trader Joe's all the time as a busy student and I still go as an adult.
Trader Joe's has excellent seasonal products and a great selection of flowers.

For years, I went to Trader Joe's for affordable staples, easy meals, and fun snacks when I was a busy, broke college student.

Now, I officially fit some of the bill of an average Trader Joe's shopper — a college-educated person making over $80,000 a year.

But I still head to the chain for quick dinners after long days, easy office lunches, and sweet treats to brighten my week.

Here are some of my favorite things to buy at Trader Joe's.

Frozen blueberry waffles are a breakfast staple for me.

Trader Joe's frozen blueberry waffles pair well with peanut butter. Christine Craven

Everything but the Bagel seasoning is tasty on salmon. Aleenah Ansari

Trader Joe's has a great floral selection. Aleenah Ansari

Trader Joe's No Joke juice shots come in a range of flavors. Aleenah Ansari

Trader Joe's has a few wafer cookies that change seasonally. Aleenah Ansari

Corn-chip dippers are great for scooping up guac. Aleenah Ansari

Trader Joe's peanut-butter-filled pretzel nuggets are a great snack. Aleenah Ansari

We always have good luck finding decent produce at Trader Joe's.Aleenah Ansari

The citrusy-garlic blend is definitely worth trying if you're looking for more tang to a dish. Aleenah Ansari

My partner and I shared these as a Valentine's Day treat, and it was a welcome change from our usual picks.Aleenah Ansari

Trader Joe's shea butter and coconut oil hair mask is under $5. Aleenah Ansari