Absolutely agree on a key loop and an elastic strap inside to hold water. For measurements, use a one inch binder to measure on of the outside pockets. That will give you the depth needed for packets of papers. I would also include a matching smaller bag that has a plastic lining in case she wants to bring a snack to work. When my girls were in college I made the several totes so they could grab stuff for a class and run - no need to search for books or swap out backpacks.