While other students flip through their notes before a big exam, junior Noa Yolles reaches for something else: a necklace she has worn since she was a baby.
The pendant, framed by a scalloped gold edge, is engraved with Mary holding baby Jesus on one side and Jesus alone on the other. Yolles said the necklace belonged to her great grandmother and was given to her when she was born.
Although she never had the chance to meet her great grandmother, the necklace is a tangible connection she has to her family, she added.
“I’ve had it since I was born,” Yolles said, “It’s always just kind of been there.”
She explained she began wearing the necklace more intentionally in middle school, saving it for special occasions. Over time, it became part of her routine before exams, she said.
“I don’t wear it every single day, but if I have a big test or something important, I make sure I have it on,” she said. “It just feels better knowing it’s there.”
Yolles said putting the necklace on before a big event has become a small ritual to steady her nerves. Even without memories of her great grandmother, she said wearing the necklace creates a subtle sense of connection, as it is a reminder that something has been passed down to her.
The necklace represents tradition, comfort and a source of confidence when she needs it most, she added.
Published and digitized March 2026.
