When first entering high school, one of the most daunting tasks is answering the question, “What the heck do you bring in your backpack?” You want to be prepared and organized, but you don’t want a 30 lb backpack to lug around all day. The biggest advice I can give you is this: on your first couple days of school, each of your teachers will hand out a syllabus, and on that syllabus is a list of all of the materials you will need for that specific class, so wait till you get that to buy your supplies, so you don’t waste your money. This list is the top five things that most high school students would find important beyond the recommended class supplies lists.
- Water Bottle!
Bringing a water bottle is extremely important, staying hydrated will help you not fall asleep in your classes. We have water bottle filling stations all over the school, and they are located in the Ag hallway, the 400s hallway, the Woods/Gym hallway, the cafeteria hallway,
- Pencils, Pens, Pencils, Highlighters, More Pencils
You can never have too many pencils, always make sure you have more than you need. Pens can come in handy sometimes, as well as highlighters if it helps you take notes or remember things, but pencils are an absolute must-have.
- More notebook space/paper than you think is necessary
The worst thing is taking notes in class and running out of paper. Even if you think it’s excessive, more is always going to be better.
- Emergency Kit!
These can be personal to you, but deodorant, perfume/cologne, chapstick, bandaids, and hair ties are some things you can consider adding.
- A Book!
Even if you hate reading, having a book with you can not only provide some entertainment during your downtime but also if you finish a test early or have a study hall. Pro tip: Carrying a book around looks nice for your teachers too, all teachers like kids who read.
My last pro tip for you all, advice for answering the infamous folders vs. binders debate. Either way, you’re going to want either an ‘A’ day folder/binder and a ‘B’ day folder/binder to keep yourself organized. It’s really up to you, however, folders tend to fall apart extremely quickly, whereas binders are sturdier and have more capacity, as well as sections and dividers. (Binders for the win!)
This is a pretty vague list, but all of these things are important to make high school as easy and painless as possible! Can’t wait to see you all soon!
Cassidy Baker, Staff Writer
Sophomore Cassidy Baker is a staff writer for the 2022-2023 Colonel Newsmagazine. She enjoys reading, anything to do with animals, and spending money she doesn’t have. 🙂
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