Cover Feature
AUGUST 2016
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Back to School
Scholarly Advice As Saipan students prepare to return to the classroom, students at different levels of education reflect on the past year and offer advice to their younger peers. By Joy White Michelle D. Bermudes, 14 Incoming freshman at Marianas High School Parents: Ray and Nancy Bermudes Siblings: Michael John Bermudes, Christine Falcon and Theodora Falcon Hobbies: Drawing, reading (especially science fiction) and volleyball Achievements and awards: • Salutatorian of Admiral Herbert G. Hopwood Jr. High Class of 2016 • Placed second in the 44th Annual Scripps Regional Spelling Bee • Represented Saipan at the island-wide STEM Fair • Multiple Principal’s List awards What I will miss about middle school: “I will miss everything about middle school, from my awesome teachers to all my friends. I will miss having to come to school every day to the best homeroom. I will also miss the special bond and support we have as individual teams.” What I am looking forward to in high school: “I am looking forward to making new friends in high school and maintaining my high standards when I get there. I am also looking forward to experiencing high school life in general.” My advice for other students: ”One of my golden rules is that you should always work hard to achieve your goals. Without hard work, you will not make it that far. You should never give up, and always be committed to whatever you do. Do things that you are passionate about because if not, your work will seem a waste. Also, do not be tempted by any bad influence you will be facing in high school. Study hard and choose your peers wisely.”
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AUGUST 2016
Photos by BRM
Back to School Jayrald Steven Batallador Mercene, 17 Incoming senior at Marianas High School Parents: Rhodalyn and Joel Mercene Achievements and extracurricular activities: • Co-supervisor of bulk distribution for the American Red Cross during Typhoon Soudelor • President, Leo Club 2015-2016 • President, National Speech and Debate 2016 • Member of the National Honor Society, 2014 to present • Three-time national qualifier for Duo Interpretation • Top 100 in the nation for poetry, International Thespian Society • Three-time representative for Duet Acting in Lincoln, Neb. • Reached the highest ranking for Duet Acting at national competition • Second place in the 2015 and 2016 local mock trial competition My inspiration and role models: “My parents are a big part of my education as well as my life. They are also my biggest inspiration. They are the reason I try my best at school every day because of the sacrifice they have to go through just to provide for me. All of my accomplishments wouldn’t have been possible without the help of my parents, and that is why I dedicate all of my achievements to them.” Challenges I face in academics: Maybe the biggest challenge in my academic life is not performing up to expectations. When you start to slip up in school, you start to doubt yourself, but then you remind yourself to stay positive and keep yourself focused. My advice to other students: “The only advice I can give to my fellow peers is never give up on your dream, stay focused on your goals, always be humble and give credit to the people that helped you get to where you are today because they are a part of your success now or in the future.” Contributed photos
AUGUST 2016
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