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COVER DESIGN BY Jasmine Cervantes | Staff MemberOwnership and Sponsorship
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As the year comes to a close, it is time to release our senior issue of The Dart. Our staff has worked hard and played hard this year and we are so excited to see what will come next. But, before we get ahead of ourselves, we wanted to take a look back on the amazing graduating senior class and the 2022-23 school year.
To start you off, Anna Massman shares a beautiful and colorful photo essay from STA’s recent international day.
Flip to pages 6-7 where Sarah Schwaller reflects on the legacy of the Class of 2023’s officers.
On pages 8-9, read a few notes from graduating seniors to younger students.
Once you hit pages 10-11, join us in celebrating the faculty and staff members who will be departing STA this year.
On that note, on pages 12-13, Chloe Denk maps out where all of these amazing graduating Stars will be going next year. How stellar is the class of 2023?!
Four of those awesome seniors share advice to their freshman selves in a story by Ellie McManamy on page 14. Some more of our seniors are honored as STA Academy Woman nominees on page 15.
Two of our lovely departing Dart staffers, Anna Cucar and Ellie
Buttel, leave us with their final words on pages 16-17. Their eloquent columns discuss the lessons they learned at STA.
On pages 18-19, up-and-coming editor-in-chief Annie McShane takes a look at all of our sporty seniors who are committed to play sports in college. Big congrats to them!
Turn to page 20 where Maya Tule compiles some of the class of 2023’s favorite songs, and our very own senior EICs share their most iconic songs.
And be sure to pop over to page 21 where Dianne Haake highlights several seniors’ personal passions.
Finally, we challenge you to play Anna Stout’s class of 2023 board game!
That is all we have for you this school year, dear readers! We are so excited to make our debut as editors-in-chief, even though we’ve got some big shoes to fill. Mara, Charlotte and Kaylee, we couldn’t have asked for better EICs to lead our paper this past year, and we will miss you three, along with our other four seniors Caroline, Ellie, Anna and Kyra, more than you will ever know.B
Photo Essay: International Day
Star Spotlight: Senior Class Reps
Feature: Senior Farewells
Feature: Teachers Leaving
Centerspread: College Map
Feature: Advice to Freshman Self
Humans of STA: Academy Woman
Columns: Senior Advice
Sports: Senior Commits
Reading Nook: Senior Picks
Community: Following Their Passion
Last Look: STA Trivia!
Decorations at the entrance to International Day celebrate the different cultures represented with their flags.
On March 30, STA hosted International Day, celebrating the school’s diveristy with different cultures’ artifacts and food.
Different artifacts and photos from Chile decorate the country’s table.
The senior class representatives, Emma Hiss, Riyan Jones, Emma Mullins and Maggie Reintjes were selected for these positions based on their involvement in the STA community and their willingness to be contributing members of the school. Because of their passion for the STA mission and sisterhood, they have been asked to share their advice about traditions and leadership within the STA community.
Reintjes, the president of the senior class at STA, is an active member of the school. Through helping in Campus Ministry, playing sports, participating in volunteer work and many other activities, Reintjes has certainly made her mark on STA and has been acquainted with many people along the way. Her work, specifically while in this position, has helped create change and strengthen many aspects of both the senior class and the St. Teresa’s community.
Reintjes has been able to use her experiences to bring the class of 2023 closer together. She strives to understand how to be the best leader she can be, while keeping in mind both the needs of her classmates and herself. “These activities have helped me become more aware of different work ethics, different ways to problem solve and definitely how to be flexible,” Reintjes said. “Things always can get canceled, things can change so it makes me kind of have an understanding for people who are super busy.”
Her role as president requires many tasks. This has meant that she, as well as the other class representatives, have had to step into their roles and define what they mean. Additionally, they needed to discuss how they would realize senior traditions. They did so by creating a guide.
“There is not a whole lot that is on paper,” Reinjes said. “But, at the beginning of the year, the other class representatives and I met and we shared a document and called it “The Handy Dandy Notebook” and we wrote down all of our class meeting dates and categories like bonding techniques, bonding events, themes and every single event that would have representative involvement. What we struggled with, because nothing was written down, is that we had to do it all by memory, or look back at Instagram posts. We tried our best, but there were definitely things that I vaguely remember from my freshman year that we didn’t do.”
Mullins is the vice-president of the senior class of 2023, and like Reintjes, has been very engaged with STA activities. Mullins has been a member of the Student Government Association for the past three years at STA. She especially values the school community, noting that her friends and the bonds that she has formed have been what has truly made her time at STA special. She believes that she has been able to grow and become a well-rounded individual
The STA community that she has involved herself in has given Mullins the opportunity to strengthen her leadership and advocate for her peers. As Reintjes mentioned, there are aspects of roles in student government that need to be personally defined, and Mullins has certainly done that through her connections in the community – she has used her experiences to bring the senior class closer together through listening and understanding.
“These activities have made me learn how to branch out and meet new people that I now love. They have also caused me to want to be a leader and take steps towards being a leader,” Mullins said.
Moreover, Mullins realizes the value and importance of encouragement towards upcoming leaders within STA. It has made an impact on her, and she wishes to continue this aspect of community when passing on her leadership role to future class representatives.
“I will let [the future class representatives] know how amazing they are for leading their grade and how great they are going to do in their positions,” Mullins said.
Jones is the secretary of the senior class. She is also involved in the community and has served as a class representative for one year. Her participation and experiences have positively impacted her time at STA. Being actively involved in student admissions, Black Student Coalition, Campus Ministry and various volunteer opportunities has shaped her leadership and understanding. She finds that these extracurriculars are essential to her STA experience.
“Through participating in school activities I have met all different types of people, many of whom I wouldn’t have talked to
without our shared activity,” Jones said. “By making a variety of friends I have been able to better connect with STA.”
In her role as secretary in the STA student government, Jones does much of the planning.
“I help organize different class events such as class day or senior sunrise,” Jones said. “I also help plan class meetings as well as organize our Friday dress-downs. I try and assist our president with whatever she needs as well as keep our grade in the loop of what’s going on around campus.”
Jones’s contributions do not stop there, and like Reintjes, she encourages leadership. Most recently, Jones led the rally against gun violence at STA, where she was able to utilize leadership skills that she intends to pass along to others in the STA community, something that is so important to carry along as classes graduate and move on from STA. She, too, references the blueprint that the class representatives have put together in an effort to relay important information and traditions to the lower grades.
“By being a leader I have helped underclassmen become leaders,” Jones said. ” I try my best to be a good role model and mentor to those around me and through leadership I have been able to do this efficiently.”
Hiss is the treasurer of the senior class. She is also greatly involved in many activities in the STA community. Hiss has especially placed an emphasis on school spirit while in her role as a class representative. Being a member of Spirit Club, Hiss has endeavored to inspire a fun, STA-centric atmosphere.
“As a class representative, I think I, along with the other representatives, have done my best to encourage school spirit and make
it known that anyone in our class can be a leader,” Hiss said.” I am so proud to say that the class of 2023 is full of wonderful leaders who are so prepared and ready for what the future holds.”
Additionally, the role of treasurer comes with the responsibility of managing many of the finances of the class, and Hiss notes that having such a vital role has boosted her confidence.
“I think being a class representative has made me a more confident and decisive person,” Hiss said. “It can be nerve-wracking to speak in front of the school or grade; however, the position has caused me to develop confidence. I also think I have become a more decision-oriented person when it comes to planning events for the class of 2023.”
Hiss notes she has great confidence that the work that she and the other class representatives have done has been impactful; she also believes that the class of 2024 will carry on the legacy of leadership very well next year.
All of the class representatives have the shared responsibility of passing on traditions and encouraging leadership in the following classes, and they collectively trust the capabilities of the school to continue these traditions following their graduation. Hiss says of the class of 2024:
“As they enter into their senior year, I would leave them with the advice: work together to make it the best year of your high school career!” Hiss said. B
I’m certain that I will miss you girls first. I never thought 7:00 a.m. summer running or 3:00 p.m. practice in the scorching heat would be a hard goodbye, but you girls somehow made it more difficult than I expected. I loved getting to know you all, hearing about your days and noticing your cute or silly practice outfits. It was a joy being there not only to watch you grow, but to be able to grow alongside you. Every single one of you holds a place in my heart--right next to Ward Parkway days and theme Fridays! You all have the best hearts I’ve met. Keep loving Ray-Pec and hating the Lee’s Summit meet. Thank you for choosing running as your sport; you guys are the best bunch ever!
Nila,
Hi, dear!
I hope you’re having a great day. Thank you for all the hummus and pita chats in my kitchen, late night phone calls and wrong Starbucks orders. Remember to always give yourself grace and be kind. You are such an amazing human.
Love, Kathryn
From running down the trails of Loose Park to walking the quad of STA.
You’ve been with me every step of the way. We’ve moved on from playing with Barbie dolls. And now we find ourselves preparing to walk different halls.
Though we’ve danced side by side every day of our lives. We’ve found our own places that make us shine. I want you to try everything your heart desires. Because your wit and your passion will start many fires. Move through life with an open mind. Because even in unlikely situations you never know what you may find.
Soon, I must go on my way; let me leave you with this: Don’t forget to appreciate the simple things you experience.
Sorry to embarrass you with a public letter, but we are going to miss you so so much next year!
We will miss being your private chauffeurs and your in for senior seating. :)
We will fly you out every other weekend to visit us at college.
To our favorite rising senior: Samantha Vesey,
I love you, Jillian
As the year comes to a close, we say goodbye to our amazing faculty and staff who are leaving. Unfortunately, due to press deadlines, we were unable to include Spanish teacher Elizabeth Burns.
Story by Isabel Glover | Staff Member
Alice Amick
How long have you been teaching at STA?
I started in August of 2000. So that makes it by the end of this year, roughly 23 years. Why did you decide to teach at STA?
I grew up around here and went to school nearby. I have always loved the campus, and when I found out that there were French nuns I loved it even more because French was my passion.
What is your favorite part of STA?
The sense of community is the most important to me but I am also very attached to the buildings. They’ve been here and a part of my life since I was a kid and that it just all kind of works together as part of the community.
What is your favorite memory of STA?
I love the smell of M&A. It has that dusty smell like a library almost, and I love the beautiful trees going around it. I taught there until this year, so it’s kind of my home base.
What are your plans after STA?
I don’t have any immediate plans, but I know I will travel to France and spend time there. I will also do some much-needed repairs on my house, and spend time with my dog.
What subject do you teach?
I teach AP chemistry, chemistry and physics. How long have you been teaching at STA? Three years.
Why did you decide to teach at STA?
I was interested in St. Teresa’s because it is an all-female environment and I found it really inspirational to see all of these women working together.
Do you do any other things with STA besides teaching?
I was a Science Olympiad coach; this is the first year for the team and we made it to regionals and got second and third place in two of our events. What is your favorite thing about STA? I really enjoyed working with students in the laboratory. It’s a little bit of trial and error. What has been your favorite memory of STA?
In the lab last year, I was making a “how-to” video with my AP students and we were being extra safe and kind of joking around with the lab safety by over-enunciating. On camera, we actually had a Bunsen burner flame up too much. And it was one of those close calls that made me really glad that we were already wearing our goggles. What are your plans after STA? I will be working for a company called WellSpan and I’ll be serving as a support analyst.
What subject do you teach?
I teach theology.
How long have you been teaching at STA?
It is my 10th year.
Why did you decide to teach at STA?
I taught kindergarten and first grade and then I stayed home for a while with my kids when they were younger. Then I was in church and a woman helped with this retreat, and she was very passionate about theology and it really got me excited. I went and applied at Creighton and got into the master’s program. When I was finishing up that, St. Teresa’s had an opening and it worked out.
Do you do any other things with STA besides teaching?
I’m pretty involved with the CSJs and the events that they have to keep us in relationship with the sisters. What is your favorite thing about STA?
The community and how the students take care of each other and live out the teachings of the CSJs. What has been your favorite memory of STA?
The auction skits are always fun. An early memory: there was a teacher at the time when I started and we were getting introduced at orientation for the classes. He said you’ll really enjoy this because it’s like you’re a rock star, they greet you and everyone screams your name. It was fun, and many, many times people have been that supportive and I appreciated that.
What are your plans after STA?
My pastor rang my doorbell after I had made this decision that it was time to do something else and I got a job working at Visitation as a pastoral associate.
What do you do at STA?
I work with campus ministry.
How long have you been doing that?
I’ve been working with campus ministry since this past May. Why did you decide to work at STA?
I mainly just felt in some ways called to be here. I am passionate about my faith. And some of that started growing when I was a student here at St. Teresa’s. When I heard of the open spot, I wanted to give back to what I had received.
What is your favorite thing about STA?
I think one of my favorite things is the goofiness of the students. I think the all-girls’ environment just allows students to be themselves more.
What’s your favorite memory been?
One of the things that stands out has been working on planning freshman retreat. I’ve been planning the team that is made up of two juniors and two seniors. And also getting to be an adult leader on Kairos in January and then in March. Those retreat weeks really stand out in my mind.
What are your plans after STA?
I plan to get married in the fall and my fiance is in Colorado, so I plan to move out there. I wish that I could just uproot and move STA there.
What subject do you teach?
I teach algebra I and geometry. How long have you been teaching at STA? Three years. Why did you decide to teach at STA? I was doing student teaching in South Overland Park and I was attending Avila University at the time. STA reached out to Avila looking for a math teacher and I thought that would be interesting. I was interested in allgirls and the private school sector. What is your favorite thing about STA? The happy, vibrant community and everyone gets along really well. What is your favorite memory of STA? I love the Walk of Fame. What are your plans after STA?
I am going to be teaching in the Park Hill District at a school called Lead Innovation Studio. The school is more project based rather than the traditional lecture style.
What subject do you teach?
I teach Spanish I, Spanish IV, and College Spanish IV. How long have you been teaching at STA?
Seven years.
Do you do any other things with STA besides teaching?
I am currently the moderator for the Worlds Culture Club, Stars for Women’s Rights, Hispanic Affinity Group and the Spanish Honors Society. I am also the department chair for the Spanish department.
What is your favorite thing about STA?
The students and mutual support in the community. What has been your favorite memory of STA?
I’ve really enjoyed being an adult leader for Kairos and the trip to Peru with my students four years ago. What are your plans after STA?
My husband and I are moving to Florida and I plan to continue teaching Spanish.
What subject do you teach?
I don’t teach a subject. I am part of the Achievement Center so I work with students on a subject they might be struggling with.
How long have you been teaching at STA?
This is my 10th year.
Why did you decide to teach at STA?
I graduated from STA and I spent most of my career working in the Shawnee Mission School District and when I left there, STA had an opening.
What is your favorite thing about STA?
When I see students working collaboratively and showing acts of kindness on a daily basis.
What is your favorite memory of STA?
One of my favorite memories was when I was a student here. We did a dogpile across the campus. I also love the Walk of Fame.
What are your plans after STA?
I don’t have any plans as of now.
As STA’s seniors finish their last year of high school, they prepare to start at colleges across the country come fall.
Story and Graphics by Chloe Denk | Web Editor Alabama
Auburn University
Sloane Mayfield
University of Arizona
Kyra Fieger
Kate Miller
Elena Nonemaker
Peri Wilson
University of Arkansas
Ava Altenhofen
Addy Batz
Emma Hiss
Karoline Malfer
Pepperdine University
Emma Hirte
Brynne McGhie
Loyola Marymount University
Charlotte Malone
University of Colorado Boulder
Elizabeth Akers
Ellie Buttell
Grace Gaither
Elizabeth Givens
Ava Kauten
Colorado State University
Millie Queen
Quincy Shank
United States Air Force Academy
Kate Unger
Colorado College
Annamarie Hotze
Regis University
Ava Meiners
University of Tampa
Claire Coates
Sophia Spence
The University of Florida
Maggie Reintjes
Lilliana Saxe
Lynn University
Aliya Watne
The Savannah College of Art and Design
Maggie McKeown
Loyola University
Chicago
Sam Balling
Jacqueline Kallas
Frances McKee
Megan Rouse
Lidia Valenti
DePaul University
Sylvie Boughner
Northwestern University
Georgia Kerrigan
Quincy University
Marykate Roder
Columbia College Chicago
Evie Triplett
Purdue University
Lena Do
Lucy Fanning
University of Notre Dame
Teresa Elfrink
Iowa State University
Katherine Judge
University of Iowa
Ava Martinez
Drake University
Evelyn Parker
Grinnell College
Jillian Poplau
University of Kansas
Aspen Armstrong
Anna Cucar
Lauren Deady
Poppy DiFranco
Leigh Dolan
Triffin Farrar
Christina Kerr
Camille Mejia
Emma Mullins
Juliet Parra
Lexie Porterfield
Sagel Raizada
Ava Juliana Saggars
Sarah Schloegel
Sam Schulze
Tessa Stevenson
Bella Stockwood
Sydne Sylvan
Natalie Truong
Adaline Huhmann
Katie Stecklein
Kansas State University
Grace Robinson
Mya Snapp
Shelby Beck
Taylor Hayes
Zoë Hoss
Caroline Hulsing
Abby Kelley
Sophie Logan
Taylor Mitchell
Ava Van Alstyne
Johnson County
Community College
Sophia Hinote-Brawley
Tulane University
Dianna Lawhead
Howard University
Amari Crawford
Ihoppedoff theplaneat mycollege dreamwithmyand mycardigan
So I put my hands up they’re playin’ my song
I see thecollegesign
They’replayin’ mysong,the butterfliesfly
Yeah, it’s the
I’m noddin’ my head yeahlike,
Northeastern University
Katherine Heineman
University of Missouri-Columbia
Allison Baker
Izzy Bessenbacher
Ellie Braun
Leah Campo
Emily Cisper
Alaina Durone
Madalyn Henry
Sydney McLaury
Natalie Mitchell
Sophia Mock
Kate Ortbals
Lucy Rouchka
Elizabeth Salmon
Sara Tennyson
Georgia Terrill
Sophia VanHorn
Ella Vohs
University of Missouri-Kansas City
Londyn Ibarra
Leilany Martinez
Mia Matthews-Beaven
Alisha Sandoval
Pena
Saint Louis University
Maley Wenzel
Riley Carlson
Rockhurst University
Kaylee Lary
Katherine Maggard
Metropolitan Community College
Gabriella Bailey
Sophia Pacheco
Creighton University
Madeleine Fellows
Clare Harrington
Rosemary Porto
Riley Robyn
Jane Suholaski
Regan Wagstaff
Rutgers University
Reagan Fox
State University of New
York Environmental
Science & Forestry
Maya Charlesworth
Hamilton College
Tammy Nguyen
University of Tennessee-Knoxville
Liz Connell
Fisk University
Riyan Jones
Zayne Rice
Texas Christian University
Emery Danker
Sofia Fortin
Samantha Molle
Claire Rupp
Caroline Stucky
Southern Methodist University
Mallory Vance
University of Vermont
Veda Renzulli
Elon University
Clara Truebner
The Ohio State University
Stella Hughes
University of Dayton
Rose Olson
University of Oregon
Sam Lif
Pacific Northwest
University of Virginia
Emily Douglas
Marquette University
Sophie Emerson
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Greta Zinn
Truman State University
Mara Callahan
Keeley Spencer
University of Missouri-St. Louis
Emma Bridges
Northwest Missouri State University
Kathryn Brooks
Harris Stowe State University
Lauren Chestnut
Webster University
Dalila Molina
Avila University
Isabel Reyes
College of Art
Alex Ward
Bryn Mawr College
Autumn Shemitz
University of South Carolina
Caroline Hinkebein
Arts University
Bournemouth
Marin Smith
Paloma Gordon
Amama Riaz
here I am for the first time
So hard withmygirlsnot around me
“Don’t be afraid to reach out to people and ask questions because chances are they have the same question too. Challenge yourself, but also remember that your grades do not define you. When it comes to friendships and social life, get out of your comfort zone and surround yourself with people who make you happy.”
-Quincy Shank“My biggest piece of advice to my freshman self would be to never change to fit what people want because good friends will love you for who you are! I would tell her that procrastinating on homework and projects has and will never help her but only hurt her. I would also tell her to not be scared of branching outside of her middle school friends because in the end she ended up transferring and completely starting over but that was the best thing for her and she absolutely loves the people around her now!”
-Taylor Mitchell“My most significant piece of advice to my freshman self is to not try and be someone you are not. I went into freshman year trying so hard to fit in, but I found the right group of friends that liked me for who I was. If I could talk to my freshman self about school advice, I would say to make sure I don’t take my resources for granted like the Math Hub. I would also say that your grades matter from your freshman year all the way to your senior year. I would also say that I should challenge myself and take a few classes that might be hard, but they will really help in the future.”
-Izzy Bessenbacher“The biggest piece of advice I would give to my freshman self would be to not take things for granted. I would tell her to cherish all of the little moments shared with friends at school, because time flies by and next thing you know you’re graduating. If I could talk to my freshman self about academic advice I would tell her to use her free time wisely and to not procrastinate until the last minute. I would tell her to take a class she may be hesitant about because in the end [she] might really enjoy it. If I could talk to her about friendships and her social life, I would tell her to talk to everyone. Reaching out to new people and sparking new friendships is what makes St. Teresa’s so great because the community is so loving and supportive!”
-Caroline HulsingAs graduation approaches, current seniors reflect back on what they wish they could have told their freshman selves. Here are some pieces of their advice.
by
Story by Katelyn Buckley | Staff Member
What kind of activities are you involved in inside and outside of STA?
At STA, I did Cross Country all four years in the fall and I also helped out with the Admissions Department a lot. I also gave myself the role of an unofficial Star Shop Intern last semester because I’m in there pretty often. Outside of STA, I’m usually somewhere getting coffee! I also volunteer at Redemporist every other Wednesday and I love hanging out with my friends.
Why is the service you have done important to you and the STA community?
I think the service I’ve done is important to me and the STA community because a lot of great things can come from even small things. I feel like I get a lot from helping out others, so it’s a win-win. Any chance to help someone else smile is worth it. So many great parts about STA happen because of unseen helping hands, and I really love any service opportunity to make sure those events are special for other people too. Service just kind of helps the world go round.
What was your reaction to your nomination?
I was pretty surprised when I heard my name. I definitely had a happy reaction but I also didn’t really want it to be a big thing. I actually almost missed the announcement altogether; I had walked into a Goppert while Dr. May-Washington was talking about it so that was kind of funny to tell my parents.
What kind of activities are you involved in inside and outside of STA?
I am involved in various organizations including Awesome Ambitions, The Channel 41 Community Advisory Board and Delta Sigma Theta Cotillion
Why is the service you have done important to you and the STA community?
I think service in every aspect is important to my legacy at STA. I know that every small thing I do at STA ultimately transforms our campus over time. STA has done so much for me so I do everything that I can in order to give back.
What was your reaction to your nomination?
I was shocked. There are so many amazing people that we have in our STA community that deserve to be recognized. I couldn’t believe that I was chosen and felt very honored.
What kind of activities are you involved in inside and outside of STA?
At STA I am involved in student government, STA Team (admissions team), Spirit Club, lacrosse, former TBC anchor, Kairos, Freshman Retreat speaker/leader, Sources of Strength, campus ministry, honor council, former Math mentor and outside STA, [I] nanny for two different families (one during the school year, one during summer), National Charity League, and I coached lacrosse with Francie McCann in 2021 Why is the service you have done important to you and the STA community?
STA has taught me the value of service. I value it because it connects me to many wonderful people. I love working with people and for people. I am grateful for the service STA brought to my life because I wouldn’t have met as many people as I did without it.
What was your reaction to your nomination?
I was in English class when they announced the nominees. My whole class stood up and was cheering so loudly and my classmates sitting rights next to me picked me up and gave me the biggest hug. My heart felt so full hearing everyone cheer, and I thought, “I hope they know their smiles are what keep me going.”
Over the four quick years I’ve spent at STA, I wouldn’t say ‘my life is forever changed’ because of the sisterhood, as some of my peers would. However, I would say that my attitude has changed, and the way I look at events, friendships, and struggles has changed. That isn’t to sound blunt- there is no question about my love for STA- but through this school, I learned in a way, unlike my STA sisters. When I think back to my freshman year, I can vividly remember what aspects of high school I thought were important to me: making friends, dating and being invited to every party.
In this column, I describe the most valuable lessons I’ve learned over high school, and how that has changed my outlook on everything.
by Anna Cucar | Photo editorWhile this is something that many freshmen worry about, it is hard to believe that my focus was that polarized. Now, there are hardly any events that everyone in our grade is invited to. Don’t get me wrong, I understand
that friends turn into friend groups, and that is respectable. However, it took a while for me to understand that I won’t get invited to most things and that it wasn’t personal. With everything going on in high school, a lot of people are too focused on themselves to think about what other people are doing. “FOMO” or fear of missing out will slowly go away as you mature.
Additionally, your friends will change. This was the hardest thing for me to believe when upperclassmen told me this, but it is true. Yes, some people are lucky to stick with the same friend group all four years of high school, but it is very unrealistic. It took me until my senior year to find some of my best friends. So, underclassmen, understand that not everyone is out to get you, you won’t get invited to everything and friends will change. That is just the way it is. Perfection. As a perfectionist, I always strive for perfection. Whether that is
The seven virtues, recognized by most as guiding ways to live a satisfactory life, are the following: chastity, temperance, charity, diligence, patience, kindness and humility. While like everyone else, I’ve fallen short of all of these virtues in different times in my life, one has always stood out. I’ve always fallen short of one specific virtue, and that is patience. Whether it’s my food taking too long in the microwave or a red light that’s a little too long, patience has always been a struggle for me.
Patience is defined by the Cambridge Dictionary as, “The ability to accept delay, suffering, or annoyance without complaining or becoming angry.”
Upon entering high school, my patience was challenged to the highest degree I’ve ever experienced. Coming from eighth grade, I held myself to the expectation of finding a friend group immediately. What I didn’t know was that high school is about growth
and change, and the expectation I held for myself was impossible. I became impatient and confused when things didn’t go according to plan.
What my eighth-grade self wouldn’t understand is that it’s not realistic to expect that much coming straight out of middle school. I wish I could tell myself that things will most definitely change over the next four years, and that the confusing feeling I had about friend groups would not last forever. I would also tell myself that I will change over the four years, and sometimes, I look back on myself in eighth grade as unrecognizable. I’ve learned the power of being patient.
There is power in being patient with yourself. For me, this looked like not holding myself to extreme expectations, and being okay with the uncomfortable phases. There’s power in being patient with your circumstances. These are ultimately out of your control, and it can be challenging to
on social media, in school or at social events, it is difficult to not want to have it all. Have you ever seen people on social media who just look like they have it all together? They get up in the morning, work out, have a perfect breakfast, get all their homework done, always have time to party and look good while they are doing it. Have you seen that person before? If you said yes, let me tell you, they don’t exist.
I remember one time during my junior year when a school friend of mine told me that I look like I always have it all together. I laughed, knowing that was far from the truth. Even people who look like they have it together at school, don’t. There is not a single person out there who does. Consequently, do not feel less than your peers because you don’t look like you have it all together. It is okay to not get all of your assignment done the night it was assigned; it is okay to take a break from school work; it is
okay to prioritize sleep over studying all night. It took me until the end of my junior year to realize that, but it is worth it to just relax and do your best.
Last but not least is the far most important thing I’ve learned over the years I’ve been at STA, and that is that it is okay to do your own thing. It is okay to want alone time, to skip lunch to do homework, and find hobbies to do alone. Solitary time to recharge is by far the best thing I’ve learned at STA. For me, it started with going to tutor rooms during lunch. When I figured out I could get all of my homework done for the day during one lunch period, I began to spend more time alone during lunch and my free periods. My stress began to lower, and I felt less of a sensory overload during the day.
Then, this newfound sense of independence carried over to my personal life. I found a hobby of reading and learned that spending time alone
accept them, but when you try, you allow yourself to grow and adapt. My first year of high school, I wasn’t patient, and I thought the rest of my high school experience would feel this way. Every stage of high school teaches you a lesson, whether that’s a harder time, or if it’s the best time of your life. Over the years, you will find your people, and if not your people, you will find people who feel the exact same way you have.
During my four years, I’ve made many friends. Whether it be my closest friends, or people I talk to consistently during our shared classes, I find so much value in every one of these friendships because they’re something my freshman year self would have doubted I would have ever had. By trusting the process, I would’ve saved myself from so much fear and selfdoubt. I consider my friendships to be the most important thing I will carry out of the halls of STA. I plan to carry these lessons with me to college, and while difficult, I will try to remain patient through it all. B
and reading helped me shift my focus from the stresses of school. Soon after, I realized that I didn’t need to go to every social event possible. Not to say that putting yourself out is bad; I fully believe that pushing yourself outside your comfort zone can be productive. However, for me, having self-care nights and focusing on myself has been the best possible thing for my mental health, even if people may see you like you “don’t go out much.” Now, I have a job I enjoy, a hobby I love and have found good friends. With that said, spending time to focus on me, not striving for perfection, and finding what I truly value have been my most valuable lessons, and my attitude change has changed me for the better. B
In this column, I reflect on the most valuable lessons I’ve learned throughout my time at St. Teresa’s.
As they head to college, some STA seniors will continue to play their sports at a higher level. The Dart asked these athletes about their recruitment experience and expectations for college athletics.
Why did you decide to play a sport in college?
I have played tennis my whole life and I had always thought about playing in college, but I was never sure. Once I got to high school I became more serious about it and decided that it was something I wanted to do.
Why did you pick this college?
When I was in the recruitment process, I knew I wanted to stay pretty close to home. I visited a bunch of schools, but out of all of them, I loved the student atmosphere at [University of Missouri–St. Louis] the most. Everyone was so welcoming and nice to me, and it all felt very personal. I also met with the team and they immediately made me feel welcome and a part of the team.
Do you have any advice for those in the recruitment process right now?
My biggest piece of advice would definitely be to be patient and don’t get frustrated because it all works out in the end. It is definitely easy to want to give up during the process but stick with it and give it time.
Why did you decide to play a sport in college?
I have always loved sports; I decided to further my career because I honestly don’t know what I would do without sports. My entire childhood I was either playing in a sporting event or watching my siblings.
Why did you pick this college?
I chose Rockhurst because I already had friends who played there so it was nice knowing I would already know people and I loved the coaches. I also chose it for its physical therapy program. Do you have any advice for those in the recruitment process right now?
Look for a school that you will be happy at. Don’t pick one just to please others or because of its division. Only you know what it best for you!
Why did you decide to play a sport in college?
Playing college volleyball has been my dream since I can remember, so the decision was pretty easy. But, I still went back and forth before deciding. Ultimately I knew I wasn’t done playing, so when I got a good opportunity, I chose to give it my best shot and pursue that dream.
Why did you pick this college?
I chose Quincy because it has everything I want in a college. It has a great volleyball program, a pretty campus, kind people and the academic field I am interested in pursuing.
Do you have any advice for those in the recruitment process right now?
My advice for those in the recruitment process is to advocate for yourself constantly. Some coaches may notice you first, but it is not wrong to be the first to reach out. I would also say to take it slow because it just might take time to find the right fit for you.
Why did you decide to play a sport in college?
For me, I saw volleyball as a way to get into colleges that are more difficult. I also saw it as a way to broaden the list of colleges I looked at.
Why did you pick this college?
I picked Pepperdine because it’s a school with high level volleyball and top academics. I thought that I would have to pick one or the other. Also, the coaching staff has created a great space for their athletes to grow as people and athletes.
Do you have any advice for those in the recruitment process right now?
The recruitment process can be really grueling, so I think that athletes need to keep an open mind and keep their heads up. The process is totally different for each person and you shouldn’t compare.
Why did you decide to play a sport in college?
I chose to play soccer in college because I’ve been playing soccer all my life and couldn’t imagine being a NARP (non-athletic regular person). There were definitely ups and downs with playing a sport, but I will always love the closeknit relationships and the family it creates within the team. The biggest bonus I would say is that it is helping me pay for school and housing.
Why did you pick this college?
I chose the University of Missouri - Kansas City because I love the idea of playing for my hometown. I didn’t really consider any other offers that were outside of Missouri or Kansas partly because I want to stay close to home. I specifically chose UMKC because of the coaching and because it’s Division I.
Do you have any advice for those in the recruitment process right now?
I was fortunate enough to play for Sporting Blue Valley, which is a club that is very good at helping players get to the next level. I was able to go to showcases out of town where a lot of colleges watched and that’s how I got my exposure. Not everyone has that opportunity, so my advice to them would be to reach out to the colleges you’re interested in, express your interest, send them your game schedule, send highlights and go to the ID camps. There will be a time when you will get on a phone call with a college coach. I remember this being my worst fear because I was always very awkward. Always have questions to ask and know what kind of answers you’re looking for to see if it’s the best fit for you.
I decided to play a sport in college first because I think it will be a good structure for me, because my whole life my schedule has always revolved around sports. Second, I also think it will be a good challenge for me. Lastly, I wasn’t ready to be done with volleyball this year!
I mainly chose Rutgers because of the coaching staff. We have a lot of the same values and clicked right away. Rutgers Volleyball is also a growing program and I wanted to be a part of that growth, and being in the Big 10, there is the best support and opportunities available for athletes. Do you have any advice for those in the recruitment process right now?
For those going through the recruiting process right now, my advice would be to take it slow, there is no rush with anything and go with your gut. If something feels off about a school, don’t force it, because at the end of the day, going with your gut will get you where you belong. Also, don’t let let the talk get to your head: a college sport is a college sport no matter the division or the school’s ranking. B
The Class of 2023 finishes off the year in style and will be going off with an amazing playlist just for them!
Story by Maya Tule | Staff Writer Graphics by Dianne Haake | Social Media Team
Scan the Spotify code below to access the playlist!
Current Senior Dart EIC’s share a song that embodies their senior year!
Story by Maya Tule | Staff Writer Graphics by Dianne Haake | Social Media Team
“I would have to say “The Show Goes On” by Lupe Fiasco. This was a favorite for the seniors on my basketball team and it was always a game day hype song!”
- Kaylee Lary“The song that embodies my senior year is “Suddenly I See” by KT Tunstall. I absolutely love this song because it’s so upbeat and reminds me of any shopping montage from an early 2000s rom-com. The refrain, “Suddenly I see this is what I want to be. Suddenly I see why the hell it means so much to me,” is the perfect encapsulation of my postmaking-a-college-decision mindset.”
- Mara Callahan“The song I believe best embodies my senior year would have to be “From No Height” by On Planets & Hanz. This song just really makes me think a lot about these past few years, the memories I have made, and all of the unknown that is to come.”
- Charlotte MaloneAs seniors prepare to enter a new chapter in their lives, they’re bringing their passions with them. What started for some as a casual hobby has now transformed into a means of release and expression to be continued into adulthood. Many students like seniors Marin Smith and Millie Queen used time off-campus during the pandemic to explore new interests that have stuck with them since.
I Smith uses makeup and art to bring awareness to social justice issues on their TikTok account @ trvstxrthy. They recognize that it can be challenging to inform people of issues in today’s social media landscape.
I “I think a lot of the algorithms aren’t really great for advocating for [social justice], which is why I think that it’s important that we continue to push for that,” Smith said. “Because at least with TikTok, more and more algorithms are created by people who interact with them. So when more people are interacting with queer cosplayers, with cosplayers of color and cosplayers of various religions, I think that conversation will be easier to keep going.”
i Along with the account forcing Smith to go outside their comfortzone, Smith has also learned how to turn something they love into an international community.
i “I’ve learned that building community along all those lines of social justice and makeup and cosplay has been very beneficial for me and my career as an active community member in the LGBTQ community,” Smith said. “I kind of use it as a backbone to start spreading my art and I also do digital illustrations. As I’m going off to university, I used it in my applications and I can network and connect with artists across the world.”
I Queen’s decision to buy a crochet hook and yarn from Joann’s her sophomore year proved to benefit her more than she realized.
i “Other than the crocheting itself, I guess I’ve learned more that I like art,” Queen said. “I knew I liked art before that, but I didn’t really do it as much as I wanted to, and I think [crochet] has really opened up not just fiber arts, but also other like mediums that I found myself interested in and it was kind of just like a gateway for me to learn more about art.”
i Crocheting gives Queen the opportunity to both create art and utilize it in her day-to-day life.
i “I definitely want to do [crochet] probably for the rest of my life because I think it’s really fun,” Queen said. “I know I’ll probably stick with it in college because I do it as a hobby and I also do it as a stress relief.”
i Other seniors such as Isabel Reyes and Annamarie Hotze also use their hobbies as an outlet to unwind. For Reyes, it comes through caring for plants.
i “I think [plants] have benefited me in a way that they provide me with a way to escape a lot of my other chores or whatever I’m thinking of,” Reyes said. “I could spend an entire day taking care of them, re-potting or watering them, placing them around my room, maybe propagating some new ones that are too big, and they just really help me focus and they also really make me happy when I see them. I think they really make a room or house feel like there’s a lot of personality.”
i Reyes finds satisfaction in taking care of and watching plants flourish under their care. They hope to share this sense of contentment with others.
i “People think it’s really hard to get into plant care because they are afraid they’re going to kill the plant immediately,” Reyes said. “But I’ve learned that there are so many different types of plants, so many different kinds of environments. I think that in all certainly, you will find one that fits your lifestyle needs.”
i For Hotze, spin classes at MOJO Cycling Studio on Broadway Boulevard give her an opportunity to get out energy physically and mentally. She enjoys the tight-knit community and its support from people of all ages.
i “I’m one of the youngest riders; I mean there’s 17 year-olds on a team, but then it goes up to 65 year olds and instructor’s range from 25 to 40 years old,” Hotze said. “And so just talking to those different people and in that room, we are all peers, there’s no age barrier.”
i Hotze wants to bring those qualities with her as a spin class instructor at Colorado College, and encourages people to find a passion that sparks joy.
i “Find something that you love. I played tennis my whole life and it turned into kind of a job for me, and this was such an outlet,” Hotze said. “Having something that brings you so much joy is so important and you should just keep trying things until you find that thing.” B
Seniors share what they’re most passionate about and how they’re incorporating it into their future.
Who was the last senior to wear the kilt this year?
According to STA students, what were the top three concerts of 2022?
Who were the student anchors on the first TBC broadcast?
How many students in the class of 2023 are named Sophie/Sophia?
Seniors, where did you report first thing each morning your freshman year?
Where did Campus Ministry relocate to in the fall of 2022?
What musical production did STA put on in 2020?
What popular word game was part of STA’s daily culture in 2021?
What three-day program was introduced to STA in January of 2022?
What beloved campus cat passed away in the Summer of 2022?
The faculty skit returned in 2021! What was its title?
What was the most popular Netflix show of 2020?
What concert tour crashed TicketMaster and left fans frustrated?
What water bottle brand took STA by storm in 2022?
Try to get around the board by answering each of the questions about several topics pertaining to the Class of 2023. There are four trivia categories: pop culture, history, sports, and people & places. To check your answer, scan the QR code!
How many times have the Chiefs won the AFC championship with Patrick Mahomes?
What sport got third in state in Fall of 2022?
What gym activity was added back for students in 2022?
What STA team competed in nationals in 2022?
What year did STA relocate to its current location?
What year did the first class of STA graduate?
What distinctive architectural feature does Windmore have?
What varsity sport was added to STA’s lineup in 2022?
Walk of Fame
Gallery by Kaylee Lary
Spring Sports
