eyelash curler is a must! it works wonders, especially if you have asian eyes like mine.
i haven`t tried clear mascara so i wouldn`t know but i use a lot of different black mascaras. my fav mascara for adding volume is maxfactor master piece. it`s excellent! it`s pretty cheap so would suit high schoolers. apply one coat if you want a more natural look and more coats when you want pretty doll eyes.
i find that missha mascara base (under $10) gives great volume. it makes your lashes white though so you must paint a coat of a mascara on top (any will do).