Recommended Kitchen Equipment

microplane/zester ($7.49). Citrus zest is used in many, many recipes and a microplane makes obtaining zest a breeze. You can also use it on garlic cloves and ginger instead of mincing them.
You don't absolutely need a high-speed blender (NutriBullet (49.99)or Ninja ($49.99), for example), but if you want to make the breakfast smoothies this is highly recommended.
Lunch containers ($9.99). This is not absolutely necessary, but will make bringing lunches in easier. There are a ton of options, but I linked these as they are meant to be reused, but if you lost it at work it would not be a big deal.
A chef's knife (You absolutely need a good sharp knife. This is a good budget pick for $49.95 according to Wirecutter).
prep bowls $14.99. Yes, you need this (you probably need 4-6 of these little bowls). Prep bowls are critical to keeping you organized in the kitchen.
You should have 2-3 spatulas