Seven essentials for a lucky first day

As the back-to-school season kicks off, many elementary and middle school students follow a preset school-supply shopping list, but high school students are not as lucky. We have to figure it out for ourselves.

So here’s a list of seven unconventional items that may come in handy during your high school years:

Clean and Clear Deep Action Exfoliating Scrub: Available at most drug stores. Not only is having blemishfree skin and a bright look essential for making an appearance at school, but this particular face wash’s cooling action will wake you up after a morning shower and leave you feeling tingly and fresh.

A portable, external charger: Available online or in the electronics section of most stores. Whether it’s typing up an essay, locating friends or doing some last-minute research for a test, your electronic device is bound to run low on battery life. A portable charger can juice it back up even when there’s no outlet. But just be sure to not use that phone during class time unless the instructor allows it.

Your schedule set as your lock screen: For most high school students, the one thing they usually never forget is their phone. As opposed to having a paper schedule that can (and will) become crumpled, torn or damp while it nests in your back pocket, set a picture of your schedule as your lock screen so you have it with you at all times.

Headphones or earphones: Available online or in the electronics section of most stores. Socializing can be emotionally consuming and a drag. To combat this problem, make sure you have a set of headphones in order to block out the world. Note: Not recommended for students new to a school — we want you to socialize at first.

Icebreaker answers: Chances are, you’re going to be enrolled in a classroom with a teacher you just met and classmates you don’t know. Chances are even higher that there will be some sort of icebreaker question-and-answer period. If you’re feeling spontaneous, don’t worry about it, but I know I’ve blanked on “foods that start with the letter of my first name” plenty of times.

Clothes — and a look — you feel comfortable in: This is not the time to consider getting bangs again because “maybe this time they’ll work.” The first day is probably also not the best time to break in your new shoes. Unless you want to be blister-burdened and self-conscious throughout the day, make sure to pick a look and outfit you’re comfortable with.

A reasonable sleep cycle: Gone are the summer days where you could stay up until 3 a.m. watching cat videos on YouTube. You’ve likely been sleeping in past the time it takes you to get ready for school, so make sure to start going to bed and waking up earlier starting at least a few nights before the big day.