By Nassim Hariss, Year 10
You would probably be surprised to learn that many students have things in their bags that you would not expect. Some have more common items, but they all have one thing in common: they aren’t school-related. However, that does not mean they are not useful or even vital. It varies from person to person, but a lot of the time, the items kept in bags are similar from student to student.
Fragrance has always been popular, and for many, it is a must-have. Each student had their own scent according to their personal taste but almost always carry some in their bag to reapply throughout the day. From Jean Paul Gaultier to Valentino, there is something for everyone. Most commonly, people use some after PE class, after an intense fitness session, or just as a confidence booster.
Headphones are also popular and very versatile. They can be used for personal enjoyment and better concentration, especially if they are noise canceling ones, though they can be a little more expensive. Students tend to use earphones for a more discreet and convenient listening experience and headphones for a more immersive experience.
Using an iPad is a fun and original way to replace a computer or notebooks. Having a touchscreen gives students more freedom in what they want to do. With the Apple Pencil, students can take notes easily without the inconvenience of having different books, that often get lost. Students also tend to use their iPad to do some digital art and learn to draw, improving their creative skills. And do not worry about typing your assignments, just snap it onto the keyboard case, and it works just like a laptop.
Another item commonly found in bags are Muji pens. These pens have grown so much in popularity that everyone has heard of them and most likely use them. They have multiple options, like their classic pens, their retractable-tip version, and even mechanical pencils, which are very handy during math classes when being able to erase is crucial. Muji also creates high quality notebooks that are essential in many classes. They come in multiple sizes and are thin enough to keep students’ bags light and minimize back strain. The paper is also extremely smooth, ensuring an enjoyable writing experience.
Snacks are a must-have for those who like to eat at lunch break or even between classes. Even though the cafeteria has some great food, bringing your own snack can be a nice change from the cookies we all know so well. It can also inspire you to bake or cook at home, which can be a really fun and educational activity. Some students enjoy a nice brownie for that chocolate taste, while others find banana bread just as energizing.
In the end, it’s up to each student to bring whatever helps them through the school day, but by taking inspiration from this list, they can find their own favorite items to make school a little more fun.