By: Zaynah Ali

   Students at Marriotts Ridge High School carry more than just books and pencils in their backpacks. Their bags are full of personal essentials that help them get through the school day. These items can be anything from snacks to chargers to some unexpected things.

   Every student has different essentials that they find helpful. For sophomore Kala Rulison, there are a few things she always brings.

   “My lips are always dry, so I have to have Aquaphor,” she said. “That’s  something that I always have with me every day.” Lip balm might be small, but it makes a big difference during long hours in school.

   “I forget to eat breakfast sometimes, so I keep snacks in my backpack, along with my headphones. That’s definitely a necessity,” Rulison emphasizes. Typically, students carry everyday necessities in their backpacks, but some have unusual items.

   Junior, Meira Thomas, has both an emergency makeup and a fork in her backpack.

   “The makeup is if I need to fix my eyeliner, or if just need to cover something up, and the fork is because It’s just easier to pull out and not worrying about breaking; plus I don’t trust the cafeteria ones as everyone touches the utensils and I don’t want to eat from that.”

   Many students prefer to bring their own utensils, like forks, because they find cafeteria ones less reliable or less sanitary.

   Chargers are another important item for many students. With homework, emails, and online assignments, a dead phone or Chromebook can cause problems. 

   “If my Chromebook is dead, I feel like I’m in the wrong place,” said junior Tyler Wilson. “So I always carry my charger.”  Some students also carry personal items that help them feel calm and focused. Wilson carries a stress ball shaped like a taco.

   “I keep a little stress toy in my bag,” Wilson shares. “It helps during tests or when I’m feeling stressed.” These small comfort items give students a way to manage anxiety or just take a moment to relax when things get overwhelming.

   While backpacks do get heavy, most students indicate that having essential things makes them feel more confident and less stressed out. It’s not so much school supplies; it’s about feeling ready for the day. Being prepared with the right things gives students a sense of control over their busy schedules and busy environments.

   Even the smallest personal items, whether they offer comfort, help with focus, or simply make students feel more prepared, can have a big impact on managing stress and staying confident during a hectic school day.

   Overall, backpacks are more than just a place to carry school supplies. They help students feel ready and more comfortable during the school day. Everyone has their own essentials that make their day a little easier.