My pencil. I need at least two, in case one breaks, and I need a mechanical pencil in order to draw small enough notes for my music theory class.

My highlighters and post-its. I analyze the books assigned to me for English by highlighting narrative techniques in six different colors, and writing themes on post-its.

My memory. I need to remember everything for the test, I can't miss a single detail.

My lunch. The lunch we can buy at school is often overpriced and unhealthy. I watched someone take a napkin and wipe off the grease on their food.

A set of clothes. I don't have time to go home after school before our homecoming parade, so I brought the clothes I'm going to wear.

My lack of self-confidence. Grades, although they mean nothing, mean everything.

My planner. I can't forget a single assignment.

All three books I need for English. If I have even five minutes, I need to be working on my homework.

My hope. My education offers me a bright future, an opportunity many people in this world don't get.

My textbooks. I have to carry 3 with me, and keep 3 at home.

My schoolwork. I have six folders and six notebooks. They hold the points that can determine the rest of my future, what I'll do for a job.

My life. School has absorbed all of my life. It seems to be the most important thing to worry about, and nothing contradicts that thought.