Today we have a list of the required school supplies for TheFlyingOkapi class of 2014 (or whatever year you graduated or plan to graduate!)
Most of these things appear to be completely pointless, but they will be a big help in making this year not only bearable, but maybe even fun. So get some paper and a number 2 pencil and start taking notes!
My backpack is the Kelty "Tannen". I really like all of the fancy pockets it has. It easily fits everything I need!
Ipod and Panasonic RPHJE120R Earbuds
I have a 160 GB IPod Classic. It is so great! I never have to worry about not having enough memory, it's durable, and it's user friendly! Also, you don't have to be a technological genius to operate it.
My Ipod is definitely essential for making it thorough the school day. I like listening to it while I do work in math (it helps me concentrate) but not in Literature or Chemistry- It gets too distracting! I also listen to it while I'm walking to school. I usually listen to
Stuff You Should Know on my way to class. It's a cool a podcast full of very interesting facts!
I love these Panasonic earbuds. I saw them ranked on CNET among a bunch of super expensive ones
(like $100-200!) And I figured I would give them a try, since they were only $6 on Amazon. I am not disappointed! They sound great and Maggie has had the same pair for over a year, so I think they'll last a while! I embroidery thread-ed them to keep them from tangling and to make them pretty!
Sketchbook
I find that during the school year, I'm not completely submerged in arts and creativity (instead of going out and sketching I have to calculate molar masses and such - blegh)
so it is important to keep a sketchbook around so I can jump on any chance to get some drawing in. This one is kind of boring (and slightly nibbled on by my dog) but it works!
Note-Always write your name and phone number on the inside cover of your sketchbook. If you lose it all the time like me, it really helps!
Graphing Calculator
This one is a little bit more like something you would actually find on a school supply list- but bear with me! It has been so helpful for me to have my own graphing calculator for my math and science classes. The school generally has enough for students to use in class, but it makes a difference when you can actually take it home to work on homework!
I have a
TI-84 Plus. It works well for me, but I know some of my friends like the Silver Edition better. I don't really know the difference. Mine is tricked out with a Lisa Frank kitten sticker, so...
"Everything Folder"
I've always found that it's really helpful to have a folder that you can throw random sheets in when you don't really know where to put them. It also means that you don't have to bring an entire binder home for an assignment. Just throw in the papers and notes you need and you know exactly where they are.
Colored Pens
Even if your teachers don't allow you to turn in work done in color, this is a great way to make your personal notes or work more interesting. It's just one of those things that brightens my day!
Homework/Life Planner
If you are anything like me, you have to write things down or you will automatically forget them. A planner is absolutely essential for me to keep my life together.
This one is just the basic, school-issued homework planner, but I decorated it with some scrap paper and a kitten sticker. (Have you noticed the kitten trend yet? I would highly recommend adding some kitten paraphernalia to your daily routine)
Write
everything down! Homework, club meetings, test dates, deadlines, ideas for ice cream flavors, EVERYTHING! It will really help keep you organized an on the right track. I like to draw a circle next to each homework assignment and then check them off as they are completed. If I don't finish an assignment that night, I draw a little arrow in the circle, transferring it to the next day.
Kleenex
I think it's important to carry tissues around all the time, especially during cold season! Not only are they useful for blowing your nose and such, they are also essential for making paper flowers in government class during those long lectures about the legislative branch.
I found these cool skull patterned ones at the drugstore. Nobody will want to mess with you if you blow your nose with one of these babies.
C.O. Bigelow Rose Salve
You might as well call this the magical goop of the heavens. It can be used for lips, cuticles, dry skin, or facial glitter adhesive. And it smells like roses. I have had this same tin of the stuff for 5 years, and I'm still not out. A little goes a long way! It's especially helpful in the winter months when your skin gets super dry. I take it skiing with me every weekend in the winter, hence the beaten up tin. You can find it at
Bath and Body Works.
Water Bottle
Stay hydrated, people! It's important to drink lots of water during the day, and carrying a bottle around insures that you are getting enough water. If you aren't a huge water drinker, you can make flavored water with powdered flavorings, a splash of fruit juice, or some fresh berries.
As you can probably tell, I've had this bottle for a very long time. When it was brand-new, I made the mistake of taking it rock climbing and it hasn't been the same since. It leaks a little and I should probably get rid of it, but I'm attached! Would you be able to get rid of a bottle that looks like such a fighter- I mean just look at that inspiring message!
Lisa Frank Stickers
Does anyone else miss when you used to get a sticker on your paper for a job well done?
Now you can still give yourself a pat on the back with these amazing rainbow-glittery-kitten-unicorn-dolphin-holywood bear treasures. I found these on Amazon and they were a little pricey (like $15) but so worth it. I am so nostalgic about Lisa Frank stuff. It's like a visual representation of the inside of a little kid's brain, full of butterflies and clouds and completely saturated with happiness. I've been using these on my school supplies (as you may have noticed) and pretty much sticking them anywhere I can, including onto people that seem too grumpy. Just because we are forced to go to school and fill our heads with non-unicorn related knowledge doesn't mean we can't bring a little of it with us.
Bonus List Item: A Positive Attitude!
It sounds cheesy, but attitude really does make all the difference. Come into each day with the mindset that you are there to learn and make yourself into a well-rounded human being. Excessive stress is just that: excessive. Focus on what you can do to stay positive and remember, it gets better! (or so I've heard-and I believe it!)
Also-remember to be kind. Sometimes there's not enough kindness going around the school, so make a point to leave a little happiness behind wherever you go. Talk to a new student, help a someone in a younger grade, or smile at a stranger. It will make you happier too!
