As the senior class prepares to start their last year of high school, many have found excitement from the nostalgic trend of using childhood backpacks.
“I think senior backpacks are really cool and a nice way to make our last year special and memorable,” senior Elizabeth Choi said. “It’s special because it reminds us of where we started in school and can be later used as a memento for our last year.”
In the past few years, seniors across the nation have more commonly begun to use senior backpacks, especially as the trend has grown through social media. Essentially, instead of using the standard, plain backpacks, seniors choose backpacks that reflect their childhoods.
“I really love the [senior backpacks] because it adds some whimsy aspects to what backpacks usually are,” senior Shreya Shetler said. “They’re usually just black, but seeing people with [these bags] really adds some color.”
Many students have chosen their backpacks to have many of their favorite characters from elementary school time, such as Disney characters, superheros and other significant childhood idols. As students walk down the hall, a wide variety of character-themed backpacks can be seen. Some of the more popular ones include Disney Princesses, Spiderman, Hello Kitty and more.
“[Originally], I really wanted to do a Monster High backpack, but I couldn’t find any cute ones,” senior A’riyah Whitaker said. “I ended up with Spiderman instead.”
Although it may seem childish, senior backpacks have received a lot of attention and positive feedback. All the seniors have really enjoyed the full circle moment it’s given them, making their senior year even more meaningful.
“I have seen so many people participate in senior backpacks this year,” senior Sophia Saravia said. “It makes me so happy and I think it is so cute seeing all of the different, creative ones.”
As these seniors strut the halls, these nostalgic accessories carry great meaning as they get acknowledged and admired.
Overall, the bittersweet nature behind the backpacks have contributed to the many emotions that senior year holds. The trend is likely to continue for the next few years, especially because of the nostalgic meanings that it carries.
“I think that having a senior backpack is so special because it is our last year being in high school,” Saravia said. “Enjoying our last time being kids, reminiscing about our childhood days and reliving nostalgia.”
