Essential Stuff to Bring at School!

As physical classes are set to return very soon, the things we usually bring at school have been slightly modified after adding a few more things to carry. This is brought by the still existing COVID-19 Pandemic that is currently surging in the Philippines. Don't know exactly what else to bring at school aside from the common educational supplies? We got you because here are some more essential stuff to bring at school for the incoming face to face classes, in consideration of the ongoing pandemic. 

• Own cutlery set 

Because the pandemic is still alive and there are environmental acts to protect our nature from the possible harms of plastics, it is highly recommended to bring your own cutlery set when you're off to school, or wherever you go. In this way, we can also reduce the use of plastic utensils when eating outside. In the same sense, we can ensure that the things we put inside our mouths are all clean and safe. This is not only pertaining to the spoon and fork alone, but also the straws, chopsticks, toothpicks, and other paraphernalia for eating that we use on a daily basis. It would be better to have a wooden or bamboo set, but metal and alloy can also do so, as long as it is eco-friendly. (Delos Reyes, Mary Angeline C.)

• Backpack

Perhaps, the ideal luggage for almost everyone is a backpack. This is perfect for daily usage because it is portable, straightforward, and lightweight. A backpack will make carrying anything—from books and your laptop to camera gear, clothing, lunch, or your workout clothes—much simpler. Travel experts from all around the world actually advise carrying a backpack because it can make the experience easier and much more enjoyable.  Most backpacks offer the best protection for the items within by being flexible, lightweight, and waterproof. Additionally, keeping your possessions close to your body  makes it more difficult for burglars to steal. Students who use backpacks can carry goods on their backs, which improves their ability to see in front of them as they move through packed halls and stairs. (Alorro, Gerome A.)

• Extra face masks

Face masks are still necessary because we are still fighting the pandemic, making them one of the most important items we need to prevent any deadly diseases from spreading to us. Wherever we go, we should carry a spare mask, especially now that we are adjusting to the new normal and opening schools, so pupils should bring their own extra supplies. Face masks are still recommended to block the transmission of viruses, as well as to ensure that you follow health regulations and do the right thing, making it simpler to put an end to the pandemic. It gives us the protection we require and serves as our defense against the airborne transmission of respiratory droplets. (Vasquez, Regine)

• Paracetamol

If you go to school, don't forget to bring paracetamol for you to be prepared for a threatening fever. COVID-19 is everywhere so in case you feel bad and sick in your class, you can use it to reduce or relieve any symptoms. It is important especially since we can't avoid socializing with other fellow peers and we forgot to follow some health care protocols, like keeping a proper social distance. It is handled and two pieces of paracetamol are enough to bring to yourself and for someone needed. The advice is do not use it if it is not suitable nor necessary to you. Check yourself first through temperature, or consult the university physician, and eat healthy foods before taking any kinds of capsules or tablets. (Tagupa, April Ann)

• Tissue

Tissue became a coveted item during and post pandemic  across the globe, in response to the coronavirus pandemic, prompting people to purchase large amounts of household goods. In my research, the purpose of tissue towels in school are drying hands, wiping windows, and other surfaces, dusting, and cleaning up spills. Students should bring these items in school because instead of using a towel to dry our hands after washing as we used the comfort room, we can use tissue instead, to be more hygienic and to prevent ourselves from contracting diseases and viruses. Also, we need tissues because it is essential for all of us, not only for students but also for everyone, as it can be a substitute for towels and other things that will help to remove stains or dirt in our body. Tissue is one of the things we need. (Bosiyo, Jacel Ann)

• Alcohol

One of the ways to prevent the spread of infections and decrease the risk of getting sick is by using a tested brand of alcohol. If you're wondering what type of alcohol you should use — like ethyl or isopropyl, this entry will enlighten you about this inquiry. You don't need to be confused about what you need to buy because ethyl and isopropyl are both potentially capable of killing germs. Alcohol has antimicrobial properties that prevent the growth of microbes such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests that an alcohol concentration of 60 to 90 percent can be used  for disinfection, which can minimize the spread of the virus. Remember that these items are not intended for consumption and it has proper usage. (Carado, Jyreh Mark)

• Soap 

Hand hygiene is one of the most basic and low-cost techniques to prevent and control the transmission of germs. Clean hands can save lives in times of illness epidemics, such as currently, when the world is facing  COVID-19.  According to studies by the WHO, washing our hands correctly with soap and water can reduce respiratory illnesses, such as the common cold and flu, by one-third and stomach-related illnesses by 50%. The surfactants in soap can help trap and eliminate germs as well as remove grime more effectively than simply washing your hands with water. Surfactants are the cleansing agents that produce foam and break down oil, fat, and soil to allow them to be removed from the skin. In terms of removing dirt and germs and keeping your hands clean, bar soaps, shower gels, shampoos, and dishwashing solutions can be just as effective as liquid soaps. (Luayon, Shella)

• Leaf binder notebook

We all know that one of the most useful things to bring to school is a notebook. However, this Leaf binder notebook differs from the ordinary notebook; this notebook is frequently used by college students because it is organized and refillable. The notebook serves as a guide for students when it comes to reviewing and is used to take down notes. It is necessary to carry it because it serves as a writing board for students, storing important information that students are learning. It is also used to take notes, give lectures, and so on. We can use it anywhere, including the office, school, and home. There are as many small notebooks as you can carry around with you. This is essential because we have complete freedom to write whatever we want. Sometimes when you can't express how you feel, you just write it down. We also have a notebook that we open every day for you to write the reminders or schedule. As well as, the lessons that have been discussed by our professors. Here, we are free to write down our feelings, thoughts, and events in our lives. (Medina, Hazel) 

Even though it is unseen, or some may perceive it as only a threat to discipline the people, COVID-19 is indeed real and can be fatal. As we leave the comfort of our homes, we must still be aware and careful of ourselves, for the outside world is a much more threatening and dangerous place. With this being said, always keep your essentials to your bags or pockets so that you can ensure a less exposure and less risks of getting the virus as you travel everywhere.