You may think you spend most of your time with your best friend or a loved one. Day and night, you may be cuddled or conversing. But what if I told you that assumption could be totally wrong? There could be another companion that absorbs your time even more.
Living in the corner of your room, on the ten-year-old hook, or right there on your shoulder — your bag is always there. Whether it’s your backpack, tote, handbag, or duffel, you have a carrier that embraces the items dearest to your everyday life.
I asked some fellow Aggies what items they keep close to their chest.
1. The Urgency of Lip Wear
It seems as though lip wear is dire to our existence. Like a wildfire seeking containment, lip wear appeared to be a vital necessity. This was the most discussed item among New Mexico State peers — whether lip gloss, lipstick, balm, liner, you name it. Lip wear was unquestionably an essential in the bags of many students. MAC Cosmetics states that lipstick can change any mood. I’d say this accounts for any lip wear. When my lips succumb to the inevitably dry New Mexico atmosphere, my mood can sway drastically if I don’t have my lip balm in my bag.
“Because any day without Chapstick is just a bad day,” commented student Emme Paulino.
2. Skin Care
Along with lip care, students listed many items in their bags that aid their skin in various ways: lotion, perfume, hand sanitizer, and deodorant were among some toiletries that take up space in Aggies’ bags. If you’re a freshman new to life on campus, one NMSU senior stressed that body mist should be in your bag at all times. Personally, I feel like I work harder and achieve more when I feel comfortable in my skin. This means having lotion or deodorant on deck, easily accessible during my extensive hours spent on campus. It’s important to allow yourself these luxuries when going about your busy days. On your next trip to the store, get yourself some travel-sized necessities to feel a little better throughout your days.
3. Electronics/Accessories
Duh. I mean, shouldn’t this be at the top of this list? It’s no wonder we rely on our laptops and phones to function in this active university setting. Times are different — to death with paper! Right … right? Anyway, when I asked fellow Aggies what’s in their bags, I rarely got comments about their laptops or phones. I would’ve categorized those items as fundamentals in students’ bags, at the very least. But I’m talking about those little things that may go unnoticed; the things representative of the individual who holds the enchanting bag. Recognizing the importance of your individuality outside of academia is paramount to enjoying yourself and getting work done efficiently. One student said their digital camera hugs a sweet spot in their bag.
“… I enjoy taking photos of random things I see during my day that are beautiful to me,” Zoe Montoy said.
It’s important to be on top of your work, but finding time for yourself can be just as crucial. Students chatted about their bags cradling headphones, vapes, lighters, mirrors, and sunglasses. Spending hours on campus calls for finding items that resonate with who you are. It can feel boring and unmotivating carrying just a laptop and notepads. We’re creatures of enjoyment, after all. Don’t abandon these simple pleasures next time you pack your bag.
