CHRONICLE the harvard westlake
Studio City • Volume 28 • Issue 9 • May 30, 2019 • hwchronicle.com
Chinese teacher departs By Sofia Heller
PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY CAITLIN CHUNG, SPENCER KLINK AND KYRA HUDSON
By Kyra Hudson
The Abortion Argument
After realizing that the guy she had just had sex with didn’t use a condom, Piper* ’20 had to take Plan B OneStep. The emergency contraception kept Piper from facing an unwanted pregnancy, but under the anti-abortion bills that are being passed in states throughout the country, Piper would not have the ability to have gotten the abortion that she said she could have potentially needed. “I think that once you’ve gone through that kind of experience, it’s really scary thinking that some women won’t have access to the same things I did,” Piper said. “It’s an eye-opening experience, and I realized how lucky I was
to live in a place where things were so accessible to me.” The recently passed controversial anti-abortion bills restrict abortion rights, generally making abortion illegal as soon as a fetal heartbeat can be detected. Usually, a heartbeat can be detected at six weeks, but in many cases this is before a women is even aware that she is pregnant, according to the American Pregnancy Association. Over the span of the last five months alone, six states have passed anti-abortion bills, with Alabama’s being the most restrictive as a near-total ban on abortion, according to the New York Times. The legislation in Alabama makes no exception for rape or incest cases, and doctors who per-
form abortions could face life in prison. After being signed by Governor Kay Ivey, Alabama’s new law is set to be put into effect in six months, but due to the strong disapproval of the extremity of the bill, it might ultimately be blocked, according the HuffPost. Abortion was banned in the state over 150 years ago, but after the 1973 ruling of Roe v. Wade, abortion has been legal throughout the entire United States. While there has been a lot of vocal public disapproval for the bills, especially the one in Alabama, almost half of all Americans consider themselves “pro-life,” according to the Washington Post. Contrarily, in a Chronicle poll of 303 students, only 6 percent
consider themselves “pro-life.” “I am anti-abortion,” Sion Yoo ’20 said. “I consider the fetus inside the womb to be a baby. A lot of the time people get an abortion because they don’t want to be responsible, and I don’t think it’s right that they are avoiding that responsibility when they decide to be sexually active by getting an abortion.” The number of states passing anti-abortion bills is continuously increasing, with bills being close to passing in states such as South Carolina and Missouri, according to the Washington Post. Following a 10-year period where abortion was allowed, • Continued on B6
The school reported testing irregularities to the College Board that they felt unfairly benefited students’ performances on the Advanced Placement Chinese Language and Culture exam, President Rick Commons said. “Harvard-Westlake will always report any irregularities that compromise the integrity of our standardized test or any other kinds of tests,” Commons said. AP Chinese student Mary* ’19 said that when she arrived late to the exam, her teacher was sitting outside the entrance of the testing area. Before Mary walked in, she said the teacher asked her if she knew what the Spring Festival, the festival that celebrates the new year, was and if she was prepared to talk more about it. After the break, Mary said the teacher was still sitting by the entrance of the testing area and proceeded to discuss the Cultural Presentation portion of the exam. “Somehow, it came to the general understanding that Spring Festival was going to be the prompt, so during the break, everyone was swarming the teacher, where [the teacher] was sitting the whole time,” Mary said. “They had to run into [the teacher] when they walked out of the room, and they were all asking [the teacher] questions about the Spring Festival.” After working with the College Board, Commons said AP Chinese students will be able to retake the exam. For the duration of the school year, [the teacher] will be on leave, Head of the Upper School Laura Ross said in an email to the students and parents of her classes.
School to welcome Interim Associate Head of School By Jenny Li
Debbie Reed will assume the position of Interim Associate Head of School, President Rick Commons announced in an email to students, parents and faculty May 9. Reed will take the office during the 2019-2020 school year. During that time, the administration will search for a long-term appointment for the position, Commons said. “In addition to partnering with me in the overall leadership of our school, [Reed] will focus on teaching and learning, working closely with the division heads on faculty hiring, professional development
and curricular oversight,” Commons said in an email. Although the school will change structurally in the coming years, including the implementation of a new block schedule and the introduction of new classes, Reed said she will work to help the community adjust next year in her interim position. “I have seen a lot of change because change management is something I understand and transition is something I understand,” Reed said. “The ability to check in with teachers, to check in with your classmates, to work with your classmates, all of that will happen. I can assure people
that the excellence of the program will remain and teachers will be provided with the support that they need.” Reed is currently a member of the Board of Trustees and served as an English teacher at Harvard School for Boys, as well as Head of Middle School, Director of Admissions and seventh grade dean after the merger. “She was beloved by colleagues for her wit and her warmth and her work ethic,” Commons said. “When I was a young teacher, I went over to the Middle School to coach soccer every afternoon in the fall. As I would leave practice, • Continued on A4
ONLINE
Behind the scenes: listen to the Chronicle Podcast Network
Members of the school community have recorded podcasts of various topics, including politics, sports and current events, throughout this past year. Use this QR code to access the Chronicle Podcast Network and listen to our student podcasts.
A2 News
The Chronicle
English to offer fewer selections
May 30, 2019
By Casey Kim
The popular course Imagined Societies: Utopias and Dystopias will be the only class available for seniors who are signed up to take Advanced Placement Language and Composition beginning next school year, Upper School English Department Head Larry Weber said. Members of the English Department decided to temporarily discontinue the other options currently available, The Language of Protest and Writing A Life, due to lack of students who expressed interest in those classes, Weber said. “Students said to us through their choices that they are primarily interested in Utopias and Dystopias as their first choice language class,” Weber said. “With [English teacher Charles Berezin] retiring, who taught Language of Protest, it made sense to think about how we might want to recreate and reimagine that course, but not do it haphazardly. So, we’re going to think about that next year, as we look at our whole curriculum and seek to keep crafting it through responding to student interest more.” Sabina Yampolsky ’20 said she was excited to find out that she will be guaranteed to take the English class she selected as her first choice on the preference survey. “I am very excited, but nevertheless, I would be pretty disappointed about this decision if I had wanted to take one of the two classes that will no longer be offered over Utopias and Dystopias,” Yampolsky said. “I hope the options will come back so kids taking AP Language in future years will have the opportunity to make a choice.”
EMMA SHAPIRO/CHRONICLE
PARTING WITH PARKING: Students walk to their cars parked on Halkirk Street. Beginning the next school year, the school will enforce stricter regulations in order to prevent students from parking in neighboring streets near the upper school campus.
School to enforce current parking policies, introduce revised prices for student drivers
By Lindsay Wu
To improve relations with its neighbors and combat its parking shortage, the school will implement new policies for student drivers beginning in the fall of 2019. Starting next year, the school will strictly enforce its long-standing policy that prohibits students from parking in surrounding neighborhoods, President Rick Commons said. Students who violate this rule will be dismissed that day and receive an unexcused absence. “Many neighbors don’t like having their quiet streets filled with student cars,” Commons said. “We’ve made a commitment next year to enforce the policy [of not parking on nearby streets] and make it possible for people to get to school while protecting our relation-
ship with our neighbors.” with more ways to reduce deThough enforcing this pol- mand for parking rather than icy will increase the number invest in increasing the supply of students applying for park- of it.” ing spaces, the school hopes Accordingly, the school has to reduce the number of cars altered its pricing model for on campus by encouraging different transit options. Yearride-sharing long parking amongst stupasses for sindents, Chief drivers will The school should gle Financial Offiincrease from continue to improve its cer David Weil the current said. rate of $975 relationship with the “Incento $1,300 per neighbors because we tives have long year. However, affect each others’ lives.” those who carbeen offered in an effort to repool will pay —Rachel Brown ’20 reduced fees. duce demand, Student Driver Rates for stuincrease student safety and dents driving operate more one other indiresponsibly,” Weil said. “But, vidual will decrease from $699 those incentives have not been to $499. Additionally, drivers enough. Administration con- who carpool with two or more cluded that the right approach passengers will park free of to the problem is to come up charge.
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Students will receive passes through a lottery system. The school will give preference to larger carpools and upperclassmen. Bus rates will also increase from $1,275 to $1,300 in order to compensate for increased expenses from operations and the creation of an additional bus route, Weil said. Rachel Brown ’20 said that while she understands the school’s motivation for revising its parking policies, the new regulations will likely be inconvenient for many drivers. “The school should continue to improve its relationship with neighbors because we both affect each others’ lives,” Brown said. “But, I have parked on Halkirk all year and it has cut off substantial drive time. The policy makes a lot of students’ lives more difficult.”
In the issue ...
A3 LAH-SO FUN: Students enjoyed snacks and musical performances at the first-ever Hispanic-LatinX festival May 23.
A10 TIME’S UP: The term limit is an essential aspect in preventing corruption and ensuring democracy in today’s era.
B4-5 UNFAIR BURDEN: Students
discuss the pressure on females to “hook up” with male upperclassmen to get invited to parties.
The Chronicle, the student newspaper of Harvard-Westlake School, is published 10 times per year and distributed free on both the upper and middle school campuses. There are 732 students at the Middle School and 870 students at the Upper School. Subscriptions may be purchased for $20 a year for delivery by mail. Unsigned editorials represent the majority opinion of the seniors on the Editorial Board. Letters to the
C3 CULTURAL CONNECTION:
Students explore numerous different art forms to connect with their heritage and history.
D1 FINISHING STRONG: Boys’
and girls’ track and field both won the Mission League for the first time in school history.
editor may be submitted to chronicle@hw.com or mailed to 3700 Coldwater Canyon Ave., Studio City, CA 91604. Letters must be signed and may be edited for space and to conform to Chronicle style and format. Advertising questions may be directed to Cameron Stokes at cstokes1@hwemail.com. Publication of an advertisement does not imply endorsement of the product or service by the newspaper or the school.
May 30, 2019
hwchronicle.com/news
News A3
Affinity leaders gather for SLIDE conference By Hannah Han
ship Conference and People of Color Conference repreIn an effort to encour- sentative and Black Leaderage cross-cultural collabora- ship, Awareness and Culture tion and develop their leader- Club member Sam Lingard ship skills, middle and upper ’19 led an activity called Game school affinity group leaders of Life, where students were convened during the inau- given a fixed income and a set gural Student Leadership in number of social credits. ParInclusion, Diversity and Eq- ticipants made decisions that uity Conference at the Middle determined their socioeconomic status, allowing them School on May 22. To begin the conference, to recognize the link between Director of Diversity, Equity economic privilege and social and Inclusion Janine Jones standing. “Sometimes at school, begave a speech empowering affinity group leaders to take cause there are a lot of kids on the higher end of action against adverthe [socioeconomic] sity. Students then spectrum, it’s easy to broke into smallforget that we do have er workshops and this [type of] diversity shared their cultural because it’s not visbackgrounds with ible always,” Lingard their peers. said. “The purpose of Middle School [the SLIDE ConferCoordinator of DEI ence] is primarily to ’ and English teacher unite affinity groups Sam Damaris Saenz said and encourage inLingard ’19 she hoped members terrelations between them,” Asia Students in Action of affinity groups would use President Lucy Kim ’19 said. the knowledge they gained “A problem that we wanted from their fellow club leaders to focus on as administrators to benefit their communities. “For a middle schooler esand students is that there is very little communication be- pecially, it might be very diftween affinity groups, and ferent to identify with an affinthis conference is one way to ity group and say, ‘you know get people who are involved in what, I’m part of [Asian-Amerthese activities to talk about ican Cultural Club] or [Latin American and Hispanic Stutheir identities.” During the student-led dent Organization] or [Genworkshops, club leaders ana- der and Sexuality Awareness lyzed the intersections between Club],’” Saenz said. “What we race, gender and socioeconom- want to do is equip our leadic status and discussed ways ers to be able to create a space they could foster a more inclu- where students are comfortsive environment at school. able coming in and feel like Student Diversity Leader- there’s a space for them.” white s
CAITLIN CHUNG/CHRONICLE
A CORNY SNACK: Students enjoy snacks at LAHSO’s first Hispanic-Latinx festival, including tamales, churros and elotes. The event also offered a zumba session and musical performances.
Celebrating culture: LAHSO hosts inaugural Hispanic-Latinx festival By Luke Schneider
The Latin-American Hispanic Student Organization hosted the first annual Hispanic-Latinx festival May 23 outside Seaver Academic Center. 15 students sang, danced and recited poetry at the festival, which also featured Los Angeles Football Club player Rodolfo “El Matador” Zelaya as a speaker. Spanish teacher Sephora Escarpeta-Garcia said that she appreciated how the students could showcase their
talents across a variety of mediums. “I’m glad the [kids are participating] because the Latino community here needs to be more visible,” Escarpeta-Garcia said. LAHSO leader Xenia Bernal ’19 said that the performances were an integral part of involving more of the school community. Six students, including three LAHSO leaders, also performed a dance that upper school dean Celso Cardenas choreographed. Helen Graham ’21 said that
she enjoyed learning about Hispanic and Latino culture through the activities. “I’m excited to have more opportunities for visibility for minority groups on campus,” Graham said. LAHSO leader Antonio Cue ’19 said that he was excited about the different aspects of Hispanic and Latino culture he could showcase, including student performances, dances and food. “I’m so excited to start a new tradition during my last year as a club leader,” Cue said.
Immigration attorney discusses asylum seekers By Austin Lee
CAITLIN CHUNG/CHRONICLE
DO-NUT FORGET YOUR WATER BOTTLE: Environmental Club President Anja Clark ’19 distributes donuts to students who brought their reusable water bottles on the quad May 23.
Let’s go green: Environmental Club hosts final events to encourage sustainability By Ruoshan Dong
In addition to distributing donuts to students using reusable water bottles, the Environmental Club sold sustainable utensils and promoted environmental organizations as part of its Donut Forget Your Water Bottle event May 23. Club members sold environmentally sustainable cutlery sets, straws, bracelets and homemade pins to encourage students to seek environmentally friendly alternatives.
Proceeds from the sale will go towards purchasing new recycling bins for the next school year. The Environmental Club also collaborated with the Latin American-Hispanic Student Organization and Black Leadership, Awareness and Culture Club to host the event. Club President Anja Clark ’19 said that the goal of the partnership was to spread climate change awareness to a wider group of students. “We wanted to branch out
to a wider audience instead of just sticking to raising awareness about plastic, which we’ve been doing for a while,” Clark said. Club member Helen Graham ’21 said she hopes the event will inspire students to take care of the environment. “It’s not just about lowering the impact of how much plastic we use, but also about teaching kids to be more environmentally friendly throughout the rest of their lives,” Graham said.
seekers are sent back to wait in Mexico for their immigration Immigration attorney Lori hearings. The process can take Schoenberg spoke to students two or three years to be comabout immigration at the Unit- pleted, and immigrants must ed States-Mexico border and apply to enter the U.S. for evthe current administration’s ery hearing. “People really don’t have policies regarding asylum seekers in Ahmanson Lecture anywhere to go or live, and Hall on May 20. Schoenberg, there have been many circumwho volunteers with the Har- stances in which primarily vard-Westlake Immigration women or children have been Assistance Club, addressed the victims of extortion or other violence the immigrawhen they even tion process try just to go to and challenges In many cases, the border to that the system children are traveling go to the hearis facing. alone. The reason ings,” SchoenSchoenberg berg said. discussed asychildren travel alone is Valentina lum seekers’ basically desperation.” Gaxiola ’21 motivations for entering the —Lori Schoenberg said that she inspired U.S. and notImmigration attorney felt to learn more ed that many about the difimmigrants cross as unaccompanied mi- ferent facets of immigration. “I think the speaker offered nors, under the age of 18. In addition, these children face clarity on the rules and specifdifficult, unsafe conditions at ics regarding the separation of children,” Gaxiola said. “[The the border. “In many cases, children speaker] made me want to are traveling alone,” Schoen- learn more about the laws and berg said. “The reason chil- practices of the government dren travel alone is basically in different circumstances redesperation.” garding immigration. I also Schoenberg commented on learned about the hardships the so-called “Remain in Mex- that young children and teenico” policy, in which asylum agers seeking asylum face.”
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A4 News
The Chronicle
Associate Head to join school
May 30, 2019
• Continued from A1
there was only one person left in the building, and it was always [Reed.]” After working at Harvard-Westlake, Reed took on the role of Head of Seven Hills School and later, Head of Polytechnic School. Reed retired from her position at Polytechnic School in 2014 and is currently a search consultant with Resource Group 175. “It is enormously flattering [to be offered this position],” Reed said. “[Harvard-Westlake] is in a space of its own, both in terms of its size and its ambitions, in terms of its excellence, so it is such a particular and wonderful place. This is a school that had confidence in me and gave me opportunities.” Reed’s experience will provide unique possibilities for the school in this next year, Commons said. “It’s a tremendous service to Harvard-Westlake and to me that she is willing to come back to some of the joys but also some of the challenges of full-time work at school,” Commons said. “As someone who was head of two different schools, she understands not only who we are and what we are at our best, but she also has seen other schools that I’m sure do some things as well or even better than Harvard-Westlake. She will help us see what’s possible.”
CAITLIN CHUNG/CHRONICLE
TAI CHI-YING THE WORLD TOGETHER: Joy Ho ’22 and her father Dr. Qineng Tan perform a traditional Chinese martial arts routine. Ho’s shocase was one of four performances meant to demonstrate distinct cultural aspects of each language represented.
World Language students join Honor Society By Lauren Cho
Students who have completed four levels of Chinese, French, Latin or Spanish joined chapters of the Wold Language Honor Society at the annual reception held in Rugby Theater on May 21. The event also included special performances from students representing each of the four languages. To begin the event, Chase van Amburg ’20, Anthony Khaiat ’19, Tosh Le ’19 and Jackson Prybil ’19 read pledges in Chinese, French, Latin
and Spanish, respectively. Language teachers then presented students with certificates to commemorate their journeys through the language classes. “I thought it was nice to see all the different students from different language courses and their cultures,” Natalie Barnouw ’21 said. Students also showcased their talents to reflect the four distinct cultures. Joy Ho ’22 and Dr. Qineng Tan (Claire ’18) performed Tai Chi, a Chinese martial art. Sorcha Whitley ’19 then
Cinema Studies classes travel to Arclight Cinema in Hollywood By Frank Jiang and Khyra Stiner
Cinema Studies and Philosophy of Art and Sciences classes, along with parents and other members of the community, attended the screening of “Space Odyssey 2001” at the Arclight Cinerama Dome in Hollywood on May 22. The movie itself was created during the 1960s and
used various filmmaking techniques, such as the omission of sound. Philosophy and Cinema Studies student Annie Wendorf ’19 said the movie was presented in an abstract and arthouse manner, with scenes that appeared slightly confusing at times. “It’s crazy to me how it was such a huge hit in the 1960’s, and it was pretty cool to able to contextualize it with what was going on during that time
period,” Wendorf said. “I don’t even think that type of movie would get that sort of budget, now that we live in an Avengers-like production standard era.” Cinema Studies student Genesis Aire ’19 said the experience was interesting and informative due to the unique environment that the Cinerama Dome provided. Because students had previously studied many of the concepts dis-
displayed her ballet technique to a recitation of a French passage dedicated to former Associate Head of School Liz Resnik. Lilah Weisman ’20 and Jacob Schroeder ’20 sang “Pie Jesu,” a Latin song and Chandace Apacanis ’21 danced to “Ayyala Cubana” with Tali Tufeld ’20 accompanying on the conga. Following the performances, language teachers presented Asher Vogel ’19, Sonya Ribner ’19, Ben Beckman ’19 and Zane Grenoble ’19 with Outstanding Senior Awards awards in Chinese, French,
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Latin and Spanish, respectively. These awards honor a single student of each language who has explored every course level that the school can offer, as well as meet the grade requirement. “The most important part [about the assembly] should be about making it student centered, so that its more entertaining for them, for their families, for the community,” French teacher and reception organizer Simona Ghirlanda said. “We are proud of having so many kids participating.”
It’s crazy to me how it was such a huge hit in the 1960’s, and it was pretty cool to be able to contextualize it with what was going on during that time period.” — Annie Wendorf ’19 Philosophy and Cinema Studies Student
played in the film, students said they were able to connect to what they saw on screen. “It was a viewing experience unparalleled to any other I’ve had before, and that is largely due to the dome theater.” Aire said.”The movie itself was also interesting because of its
white’s
use of sound or lack of, which highlighted the emptiness of space.” After the screening, students from both Philosophy and Cinema Studies discussed about the movie and its main concepts within their respective classes.
Valedictorian announced, Cum Laude members inducted at annual ceremony By Ruoshan Dong
RUOSHAN DONG/CHRONICLE
WE APPLAUD-E YOU: Inductee Nicky Belgrad ’19 accepts his Cum Laude certificate from Head of Upper School Laura Ross.
As this year’s Valedictorian, Sarah Moon ’19 will speak at commencement, President Rick Commons announced at the annual Cum Laude Induction Ceremony in Rugby Theater on May 20. Moon was one of 59 seniors inducted into the National Cum Laude Society. The honored students have attained grade point averages in the top 20 percent of their graduating class. Head of Upper School Laura Ross began the ceremony by commending the students for their academic
achievements and offering advice for life after high school. History teacher and Cum Laude Chapter President Lilas Lane discussed the importance of striking a balance between intellectual ambition and personal character. “There is nothing wrong with ambition and external success, but it needs to be grounded in character, ” Lane said. “The development of character is not easy: you have to develop it and be willing to put in the work.’” Lane also urged students to seek opportunities in order to better the world around them.
She dedicated her speech to the late history teacher Eric Zwemer and Associate Head of School Elizabeth Resnick. Students were proud to be recognized for their academic achievements, inductee Sebastian Ko ‘19 said. Ko said the ceremony validated his hard work throughout his years at the Upper School. “Especially with the fact that [the graduating class] is one of the strongest in school history, I’m really proud of having my hard work pay off,” Ko said. “I also liked seeing my peers get the recognition that they deserved.”
May 30, 2019
hwchronicle.com/news
And the winner is... Valedictorian - Sarah Moon ’19
The school recognized students and faculty for their contributions and dedication at the awards assembly. Cuscaden Blackwood Medal - Justin Park ’20 Given to a member of the junior class for his or her outstanding contributions to the school environment and spirit. The recipient is nominated and selected by senior class officers and faculty members.
Salutatorian - Clayton Hollander ’19 Lester Medvene Award - Taylor Dees ’21 Felicity Phelan ’21
News A5
and
Awarded to a sophomore who contributes to the life of the school and embodies Lester Medvene’s “curiosity of mind and dedication of spirit.”
Rensselaer Award - Diego Ahmad ’20
Standout Seniors Bishop’s-Veritas Award- Ben Beckman ’19
and
Lucy Kim ’19
George Coleman Edwards Award - Caroline Cook ’19
Given to a junior who has distinguished himself or herself in the study of math and science throughout the year. If the student chooses to attend Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, they receive a four-year scholarship.
Morris Michael Landres Award - Kyle Reims ’21 Recognizes a sophomore who has demonstrated “consistent effort, dedication and promise” through his or her work on a school publication.
Tamkin Community Service Award - Anja Clark ’19 and Angela Tan ’19 Given to seniors who have given their time to serving the community, both on and off campus and both independently and with others.
Brendan Kutler ’10 ‘Two Hats’ Award - Coco Kaleel ’20 Awarded to a junior who pursues intellectual experiences outside the classroom, takes risks to pursue his or her interests and demonstrates kindness towards peers and adults inside and outside the classroom.
Jerry Margolis Jazz Award - Roshan Nayar ’19
Senior Academic Awards Each department honored a senior for an outstanding commitment to or achievement in that discipline.
Computer Science - Rehaan Furniturewala ’19 Duocommun Award (Mathematics) - Caroline Choi ’19 Chronicle - Saba Nia ’19
and
Samantha Ko ’19
Vox Populi - Andie Cook ’19 and Lauren Morganbesser ’19 English - Kaitlin Musante ’19 Visual Arts - Vanessa Payne ’19 Science - Emily Wesel ’19
and
Samuel Buckley-Bonanno ’19
History - Lauren Morganbesser ’19 Performing Arts - Charlie Kogen ’19 World Language - Taia Cheng ’19
Named in honor of performing arts teacher Jerry Margolis, who taught for 36 years beginning at the Harvard School for Boys, to a student who contributed to the jazz program during his or her time at the school.
Frederick Douglass Diversity Award - Genesis Aire ’19 Recognizes a senior for his or her focus on his or her own culture or others based on ethnicity, religion and sexual orientation in a creative, courageous and compassionate way through art, activism or outreach.
Lamar Trotti Jr ’50 Award - Clayton Hollander ’19 Given to a senior, in memory of Lamar Trotti Jr. ’50, who made the most dramatic transformation in his or her life and work both inside and outside of the classroom during his or her time at Harvard-Westlake.
David Justin Rascoff ’91 Award - Xenia Bernal ’19 Given in memory of David Justin Rascoff ’91 to a member of the senior class who has always spoken his or her opinions in his or her daily life.
Humanitas Award - Loyal Terry ’19 Honors a senior who has demonstrated service to the school, friendliness, consideration for others and loyalty to the community.
Debate - Spencer Paul ’19, Ari Davidson ’19 and Vishan Chaudhary ’19 William L. Davis Award (Economics) - Jack Riley ’19 Sandifer Creative Writing - Meera Sastry ’19
Faculty Awards David Justin Rascoff ’91 Faculty Award - Lisa Rado, Yanni Vourgourakis and Brian Flacks Created in honor of David Justin Rascoff ’91, this award funds summer sabbaticals for faculty members which the recipients can decide how to use.
Athletics Awards Lee Carlson Award (Athletics) - Tierni Kaufman ’19 Brayden Borquez ’19
and
Awarded to two members of the senior class, one male and one female, who demonstrate excellence and dedication in athletics.
Shumaker Award - Cypress Toomey ’19
Rising seniors will work with upper school deans and english teachers on their college essays.
Film students will visit Cuba and participate in workshops as well as work on film or photography projects.
Geology students travel to Iceland:
The senior class will celebrate their graduation together at a mystery venue, organized by HW Parents Association.
Marking the 75th anniversary of D-Day, History teachers will lead a WWII themed excursion to Western Europe.
Students will travel to Iceland to see its natural wonders and learn about Icelandic culture.
WLSA convention to commence:
Class of 2020 to attend barbeque:
Class of 2022 to attend orientation:
Students and teachers will attend a conference regarding the human condition and education.
The incoming senior class will begin their year by celebrating with each other and faculty on the upper school campus.
The sophomore class will begin their upper school experience by meeting their dean group and touring the campus.
8/23
6/10
Faculty to attend World War II trip:
6/09
Seniors to attend grad night:
8/22
7/15
The senior will attend graduation ceremonies on Ted Slavin Field and receive their high school diplomas.
6/07
HWGo! trip to Cuba to begin:
Class of 2019 to graduate:
7/18
College essay workshop begins:
Seniors will take a trip to Pali Camp in San Bernardino, Calif. and participate in various activities.
6/07
6/04
Senior class to attend retreat:
6/10
Upcoming Events
A6 News
The Chronicle
Farewell Faculty...
May 30, 2019 Eight faculty members will depart at the end of this school year. While some will retire, other faculty will leave to pursue new opportunities.
Francine Werner to retire after 44 years
By Anusha Mathur
ANUSHA MATHUR/CHRONICLE
History teacher Francine Werner will retire after 44 years of teaching, 16 of which she spent at Westlake School for Girls. Werner said that her favorite classes to teach were World and Europe II, government classes, Advanced Placement United States History and a class that combined government and post-World War II history that she taught at Westlake. Werner said that she plans to keep up with political events and perhaps get involved in government during retirement.
Werner said that moving from a high-energy job to a relaxed lifestyle will be a big transition, and she will miss her students and colleagues. “It’s a phase of life that I am totally unprepared for,” Werner said. “I think there will be times when it is a little lonely and times when it will be a little dull. I am used to the environment with lots and lots of stuff going on and lots of conversations going on. Being in the classroom has been fun. Being in this office has always been joyful. But, I think I am ready to not be in the hubbub all the time.” History teacher Katherine
Holmes-Chuba will miss having Werner on campus as a supportive team member and source of advice, she said. “She always comes in with a smile,” Holmes-Chuba said. “It is also always fun to talk politics with her because she is so tuned into the world around her. Also, [I will miss] just teaching with her, because she has been an amazing colleague.” Similarly, John Cahill ’20 said Werner has enriched his experience in the classroom. “I love her genuine caring and understanding for her students,” Cahill said. “That’s what I’ll miss most.”
Walt Werner to retire, travel the world By Siobhan Harms
Science teacher Walt Werner will retire after 40 years at the school. Throughout his time at the school, he has taught Advanced Placement Biology and Environmental Science courses, as well as Human Anatomy and Physiology and Ocean and Marine Biology. “I fully enjoyed being with and working with all the students here,” Werner said. “The students here are bright, motivated and interested. As a consequence, some amazing stuff happens in the classroom. It’s pretty amazing how when the classroom gets going, you just
get this amazing dialogue.” Werner said he has never been bored throughout his time at Harvard-Westlake because of the constant change and development in curricula. “It has been a pleasurable time,” Werner said. “For example, AP Biology has changed significantly. The course now is the result of 40 years of trial and experimentation to find out what kinds of activities actually work and what are largely going to be successful.” In addition, Werner enjoyed working at the school because of the extensive resources available to the faculty and staff, he said. “This is a great place to be
because you are allowed to branch out and experiment on your own,” Werner said. “The school, in my case, has been fairly generous. If I want to try something, the money is there to buy the stuff and try it which is very unusual.” In retirement, Werner plans to spend time traveling and volunteering for various environmentally focused organizations, he said. “[My wife and I] like to travel,” Werner said. “We’re going to be taking off for Europe next September and plan to spend five weeks there. I’m also hoping to get involved with some volunteer work with environmental programs.”
CASEY KIM/CHRONICLE
Kelly leaves to pursue writing career
By Jeanine Kim
JEANINE KIM/CHRONICLE
English teacher Ariana Kelly will depart the Upper School this year. She plans to move to Northern California to pursue her writing and other hobbies, taking a break from teaching for the time being. “I have so many things I want to do once I finish teaching,” Kelly said. “At the top of the list are learning how to play the guitar—I’ve wanted to forever—studying French again and reading all the books I’ve bought but haven’t had time to read.” Reflecting on her time at the school, Kelly will miss many things about the school, especially the community of
students and faculty, she said. “Hands down I will miss my conversations with my students about literature,” Kelly said. “I love the intimacy and collective identity that develops in a class over the course of the year. The more we get to know each other, the deeper, more meaningful the discussions become. I will also miss my students’ reactions when I tell them I have never read any of the Harry Potter books. It never fails to amaze people, for some reason.” After her move, Kelly plans on continuing to work on a book of personal essays. Although she currently has no plans to teach, she said she wants to return to a school
one day. “I would love to teach again and I plan on doing so, but I’m not sure when or where,” Kelly said. “If you can, I think it’s good to take breaks as a teacher so that you can regroup and reset. When I return to the classroom, I hope I have much more to give my students.” Meera Sastry ’19 said Kelly was instrumental in shaping her as a writer. “[Kelly] believed in and allowed me the confidence to expand my horizons from poetry to prose.” Sastry said. “I loved having her in Good Grief this year. Because of her, I and everyone else in the class came out of it with new perspectives on humanity.”
Gualke departs to create documentary By Crystal Baik
Video arts teacher Cheri Gaulke will retire after over 30 years of teaching at the school. Gaulke plans to further her passion for film and dedicate most of her time to different projects, she said. “I will be making art full time, which I am so excited about,” Gaulke said. “I will be working on a feature documentary called ‘Acting Like Women: Performance Art and the Woman’s Building.’ This chronicles a period in my life that coincided with a radical art movement.” In addition to teaching, Gaulke has co-founded nu-
merous programs during her time at the school. Gaulke co-piloted the Summer Film Program and the Righteous Conversations Project, a program that aims to bring students and Holocaust survivors together in order to spread their story. Her desire to teach students and expose them to varying countries’ lifestyles inspired her to co-create the HWGo! Digital Storytelling Program. “I’ve watched [Harvard-Westlake] students catch catfish in a mud trough in Vietnam, eat fried tarantula in Cambodia, interview survivors of the genocide in Rwan-
da and make lifelong friends,” Gaulke said. Having come out at the school as lesbian in the early ’90s, Gaulke also started Project 10, the confidential support group for LGBTQ students on campus, and the affinity group Gender-Sexuality Alliance. Gaulke said that she feels so lucky to have taught at the school surrounded by administration that has always been so supportive of her ideas. “My students have always been so smart, creative and motivated,” Gaulke said. “At Harvard-Westlake, I have been able to grow as an artist, educator and person.”
KAITLIN MUSANTE/CHRONICLE
May 30, 2019
hwchronicle.com/news
News A7
Lawler to retire, travel with husband By Ethan Lachman
ETHAN LACHMAN/CHRONICLE
After 21 years at the school, librarian Clare Lawler will depart at the end of the year in order to spend more time traveling with her husband. Lawler began her career at Harvard-Westlake in 1998 working as the Coordinator of the Deans’ Office. After five years, Lawler received her library science degree, marking the beginning of her 16 year tenure as a librarian. As she prepares to travel the world, Lawler said she will remember her individual interactions with both students and the community as a whole. “It’s funny, [but] as long as I’ve been here, it’s felt the
same, and yet the student body seems to have changed also,” Lawler said. “I don’t know if it’s just because times have changed or the student body itself has changed, but it’s always been really fun to hang out kind of one-on-one with students.” In addition to the students, Lawler said she will miss the various resources the school and her colleagues have to offer. “There are so many smart people around here,” Lawler said. “If you have a question about geology or Shakespeare or whatever, you can get an answer here in a second; there are just resources everywhere. And I kind of take that for
granted being here, but when you’re out there it’s a little harder to find smart, engaged people.” Librarian Edith Darling said that she valued Lawler’s ability to create strong relationships with students, as well as her own relationship with Lawler. “I am going to miss how she sort of quietly accepts the kids,” Darling said. “She accepts them for who they are, which not every adult does. And just working with her personally, that she’s kind and funny and thoughtful. In work life, you don’t necessarily choose the people you work with, and it’s always been a pleasure to work with her.”
Berezin to focus on family and writing By Lauren Nehorai
After a 10 year tenure working at Harvard Westlake, English teacher and Ethics Bowl Advisor Charles Berezin will retire at the end of this school year. Berezin plans on spending more time publishing essays on politics and culture on his website, writing a screenplay and spending time with his newborn grandson. While he is looking forward to devoting more time to family and writing, Berezin said that he will greatly miss teaching and the day-to-day contact with students. “What really makes teaching so rewarding for me is the responsiveness of the students who really appreciate what you
are giving them,” Berezin said. In addition, Berezin said that he appreciates the support of his colleagues and the intellectual curiosity of his students. Berezin’s English III Honors student Clay Skaggs ’20 said that he will miss Berezin’s intellect and wit and is grateful that he had the opportunity to have learned so much from him. “Berezin will be missed greatly,” Skaggs said. “His sharp wit and his unrivaled sense of humor made class something to look forward to, and I am not ashamed to say that his intelligent and persuasive but never proselytizing perspective dragged me far left over the course of the year. I wish him the best in his retire-
ment and am looking forward to reading his future essays.” Berezin’s student Kate Konvitz ’20 said that she will miss Berezin’s ability to empathize and relate to all of his students. “He always tries to connect with his students and see how events in their life are affecting them,” Konvitz said. “He always finds a way to brighten up everyone’s day with his jokes and personal anecdotes.” Ethics Bowl Captain Ava Payman ’19 said she was impressed with his ability to add nuance to student discussions. “Berezin would listen intently to a student’s stance on an issue and help to develop their argument through probing questions,” Payman said.
LAUREN NEHORAI/CHRONICLE
Hermeline to teach in New York City By Chloe Schaeffer
JESSICA SPITZ/CHRONICLE
Jérôme Hermeline finished his sixth and final year at Harvard-Westlake this year, after serving as World Language Department Head for three years. He will teach French at Horace Mann School in New York next year. Hermeline said he will miss the students, faculty members and close friends he has made at Harvard-Westlake when he leaves, but that he is excited for the new opportunity. “I love all my classes and the relationships we build together,” Hermeline said. “[I will also miss] the very hard-working staff and maintenance
that we are extremely lucky to have, because if the school can function day after day, it is all thanks to them. I’m really grateful for all they do for faculty and students.” Hermeline said that serving as both a department head and a teacher provided him with valuable connections to the faculty, who impacted his development as an educator and his life in general. “[I learned] the power of to-do lists, thanks to [Spanish teacher] Margot Riemer, who was the previous department chair,” Hermeline said. “[I also learned that] life can be hectic or chaotic, but it will get better. Small issues are annoying
and might seem the end of the world, but they truly are not. Relativizing helped to keep my head out of the water when I felt overwhelmed.” He also said he learned the importance of hard work even if it seems to go unnoticed. Margot Riemer, who was the Department Head of World Languages before Hermeline, said she is excited for his future. “As a teacher, he’s very scholarly and well prepared,” Riemer said. “He really cares about his students and about their learning. As a colleague, he is kind and generous: generous with his time and with his ideas.”
Cancio to lead Vistamar admission team By Khyra Stiner
After two years at the school, Associate Director of Admission and ninth grade advisor Oscar Cancio ’04 will leave Harvard-Westlake to become the new Director of Admissions at Vistamar School on June 30. At Vistamar, Cancio will manage and lead an admissions team of three professionals by providing long-term goals and visions. He will report directly to the Vistamar Head of School. “Vistamar is a much smaller school than HW,” Cancio said in an email. “Enrollment is approximately at 275 vs 1600. I will be working with Student Ambassadors, but on
a smaller scale.” In his new position, Cancio will continue helping families through the admissions process and will be working with Student Ambassadors at Vistamar School. “It’s been so fantastic to come back to a place I called home as a high school student.” Cancio said in an email. “I enjoyed my two years here working for two Directors of Admission (Mrs. Gregory Riordan and Mr. Mieszczanski). Even though I’m leaving my position, I look forward to remaining active as an alumni volunteer.” The Harvard-Westlake Student Ambassador program will be taken over by Admission Counselor Julia Kraft.
“While I am, of course, very sad to see him go, I am excited to step into the role of leading the Student Ambassador Program,” Kraft said in an email to all members of the Student Ambassador program. Student Ambassador Justin Park ’20 said Cancio made great improvements to the program despite his short term. “Mr. Cancio always strived to improve the program by implementing student feedback, and encouraged more communication between Co-Chairs and ambassadors,” Park said. “Mr. Cancio will truly be missed when he leaves this summer, but it is safe to say that the Student Ambassador program has grown with his leadership.” PRINTED WITH PERMISSION OF OSCAR CANCIO
A8 News
May 30, 2019
The Chronicle
Thank You
To the Stars on Campus The Chronicle would like to give a huge thank you to all of the members of our community who work behind the scenes to keep our campus running. Thank you for another year of your undying love and support. Harvard-Westlake would not be the same without you.
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C HRONICLE the harvard-westlake
Editors-in-Chief: Sophie Haber, Jenny Li Print Managing Editors: Alex Goldstein, Sofia Heller, Kaitlin Musante
Opinion The Chronicle•May 30, 2019
Studio City • Volume 28• Issue 9 • May 30, 2019 • hwchronicle.com
editorial
Digital Managing Editor: Lucas Gelfond Presentation Managing Editors: Ryan Albert, Kendall Dees Engagement Managing Editor and News Editor: Saba Nia Assistant News Editors: Casey Kim, Luke Schneider, Lindsay Wu Opinion Editor: Vishan Chaudhary Assistant Opinion Editors: Tammer Bagdasarian, Jessa Glassman, Emma Shapiro, Amelie Zilber Features Editors: Kaelyn Bowers, Alison Oh Assistant Features Editors: Kyra Hudson, Madison Huggins, Jeanine Kim, Spencer Klink, Anusha Mathur, Lauren Nehorai, Zoe Redlich A&E Editor: Lexi So Assistant A&E Editors: Annie Beckman, Jordan Murray, Sarah Reiff Sports Editors: Jackie Greenberg, Ben Tenzer Assistant Sports Editors: Luke Casola, Jay Lassiter, Will Mallory, Keila McCabe, Zack Schwartz William Seymour, Eugene Wyman Multimedia Editor and Business Manager: Cameron Stokes Assistant Business Managers: Sarah Healy, Joanna Im Art Director: Samantha Ko Assistant Photography Editors: Caitlin Chung, Jay Lassiter Assistant Broadcast Editors: Cole Katz, Yoohan Ko, Alex Mork, Dylan Shenson Freelance Writers: Noah Aire, Valerie Velazquez Layout Assistants and Staff Writers: Olivia Baer, Crystal Baik, Mariela Breidsprecher, Lola Butan, Lauren Cho, Eugean Choi, Eva de Rubertis, Ruoshan Dong, Olivia Gubel, Tanisha Gunby, Hannah Han, Siobhan Harms, Frank Jiang, Ethan Lachman, Alexandra Landecker, Austin Lee, Lucas Lee, Emma Limor, Lee Nichols, Celine Park, Chloe Schaeffer, Andrew So, Khyra Stiner Broadcast Assistants: Alex Amster, Alice He, Madeleine Massey, Marina Nascimento, Jaidev Pant, Kyle Reims, Charles Wang Adviser: Jim Burns
The Chronicle is the student newspaper of HarvardWestlake School. It is published ten times per year. Unsigned editorials represent the majority opinion of the seniors on the Editorial Board. Letters to the editor may be submitted to chronicle@hw.com or mailed to 3700 Coldwater Canyon, Studio City, CA 91604. Letters must be signed and may be edited for space and to conform to Chronicle style and format. Advertising questions may be directed to Cameron Stokes at cstokes1@ hwemail.com. Publication of an advertisement does not imply endorsement of the product or service by the newspaper or school.
A Grateful Goodbye
It’s easy to read this paper and imagine a few reporters and editors in Weiler late at night writing, editing and designing the entire paper. We work in a hierarchical staff structure, and, as such, it’s easy to attribute the bulk of this paper to the managing team that often signs these editorials. This, however, is certainly not the case—in theater terms, this paper is an ensemble show. We would be nothing without our staff and its immense dedication, skill and commitment to the paper. With that in mind, we want to dedicate our last editorial of the year to thanking our staff, the simultaneous superstars and the backbone, of our publication. This year in our editorials, we have addressed our parents, our teachers, our fellow students and the administration. In our last issue, we turn to our staff. Chronicle staff: thank you for caring about quality. Thank you for letting us see your articles two or three times even when you feel like we’ve nitpicked and made more than enough comments. Thank you for rewriting your features and getting new interviews the day before when we ask. Thank you for rearranging your entire page when we complain about the photos being square. Thank you for staging and restaging and then spending hours after on Photoshop editing. Thank you for remembering the picas, the folios and the descending headlines. The Chronicle can be an extremely time-intensive commitment for students and it is truly inspirational to see how much time you put into it. You skip tournaments, rehearsals, family commitments, studying for tests and more to
ILLUSTRATION BY HANNAH MITTLEMAN
make layout. Before we arrived in Weiler for the first layout of our sophomore years, former Editor-in-Chief Sammi Handler sent an email quoting former adviser Kathleen Neumeyer who noted that while students were excused for Harvard-Westlake productions and athletic events, “requests to be excused for other obligations should be limited to White House dinners, arraignments, major surgery, audiences with the Pope and the like.” In spite of not sending a similar email to all of you this summer, thank you, staff, for still abiding by these standards. It is because of the time you dedicate that the Chronicle is able to succeed at the level that it has. It is because of this time that each and every month we are proud to publish our issues. It means so much when we come to Weiler and see snacks and stuffed animals covering the room. We love seeing your friendly, excited faces even at 9 p.m. on Friday nights and 9 a.m. on Saturday mornings. Thank you for writing us kind speeches just because it is tradition. Finally, thank you for letting our friendships continue outside of Weiler, for supporting us and waving to us in the hallways inside and out of layout. With a tiered position structure and ordered masthead, it’s easy to think this paper is run by very few. In reality, our staff of nearly 80 works together to take photos, write articles, edit pages and eventually distribute our paper. Next time you read the Chronicle, we hope you’ll remember the ensemble. We always do and always will. Thank you, staff.
A10 Opinion
The Chronicle
May 30, 2019
Building beliefs By Jessa Glassman
B
eing opinionated is usually considered to be a negative characteristic. Opinionated people can be seen as picky, dogmatic or even pompous. Despite how often it is overlooked, there is immense value in the development and defense of personal viewpoints, especially for high school students. Formulating personal beliefs is a crucial aspect of entering adulthood. Outside influences such as parents or the media have told us all of our lives that high school is the prime time to figure out who we are and who want we want to be in the future. Becoming opinionated is, in fact, the linchpin of developing ourselves as unique individuals. Creating a personal identity is rooted in establishing likes and dislikes of all kinds, no matter how big or small. From things as monumental as determining what political candidates we support all the way to the types of music or salad dressings we like, making choices and figuring out our personal preferences sets the basis for self-definition. While most people are subject to outside pressures that cause them to think in a certain way from parents, friends or society at large, the formation of viewpoints is still a personal process and a choice. It can be difficult to ignore parents who disapprove of certain political beliefs or classmates who have a narrow definition of the characteristics that make someone cool, but these tensions force us to rethink what we believe in. While being the outsider in terms of a point of view can feel alienating, holding a less common opinion leads to more opposition which in turn strengthens the loyalty to the idea. Being forced to vigorously defend our beliefs in these contexts results in doing more research on the topics of discussion to make sure we are as well equipped as possible for an in-depth conversation. An important element of curating opinions is respecting the opposition. An opinion cannot truly be considered valid until it has been jus-
D
ear Seventh Grade Saba,
Today is my last day of high school. While I drive down Coldwater Canyon for what will be one of the last times ever, dodging the familiar potholes and sliding instinctively with each sharp turn, I feel in control. On your first day of Harvard-Westlake, you approached the bus sporting your new Harvard-Westlake shirt and a pair of red shorts. Several hours later, you chatted with new classmates
tified, so listening to the grounds for other ideas is a critical aspect of developing your own reasoning for why you may disagree. This can entail watching political debates for the other side or even just having a casual discussion with a friend, teacher or family member. It is important to not brush off or invalidate alternate points of view right off the bat so that a meaningful and engaging dialogue can take place. Coming into a conversation with an open mind and the willingness to try to understand other ideas is a necessary prerequisite to defending our own. For a society that puts so much emphasis on being unique and standing out, it is time to stop classifying people who have a rigorous set of viewpoints as hard to deal with or stubborn. Being opinionated reveals dedication to seeking truths in the world instead of being passive and letting others decide the course of action. Definitionally, the process of self-determination requires taking a stance. The alternative to this would be students who go with the masses and never explore their values or research fresh and unfamiliar modes of thought. This is antithetical to the goal of not just high school as a place for maturation, but for society at large as a place for all people to live their lives to the absolute fullest. Students should not be afraid to face backlash, especially if their point of view is controversial or uncommon. Facing criticism from those who disagree forces us to question what we believe in and to come up with the best way to justify sticking to our guns, or maybe even to change our minds about certain issues. If we stay true to our personal thoughts but also listen and absorb others’ ideas, we will become more comfortable in our own skin, learn important communication skills and become more respectful and engaged members of society.
he 22nd Amendment, calling for a two term presidency, has been in effect for over half a century, but under President Donald Trump, a debate about the term limit has been reintroduced. Trump has spoken at rallies, seemingly joking, about tacking on two extra years to his presidency because he was robbed of some time due to all the allegations and investigations against him. Whether his threats are serious is unclear, but if he does want to extend his presidency in a way that violates the 22nd Amendment, he will go against his own views against corruption. The term limit is both essential in preventing corruption but also in creating a better America through multiple presidencies and perspectives, according to CNN. Enforcing a two-term presidency is crucial in maintaining democracy by opening up the Oval Office to other candidates, recognizing new viewpoints and allowing different parties to hold power. Even before the 22nd Amendment was in place, President George Washington held office for only two terms, setting the precedent. The two term limit has acted as an unwritten rule for Presidents with Franklin Delano Roos-
evelt being the only exception, resulting in Congress finally ratifying the 22nd Amendment. Although Trump has addressed the validity of term limits, he has expressed interest in getting rid of the term limit in order to avoid corruption and dismisses the opposition’s argument by saying he is not a despot. However, our current system is being threatened by someone who is wielding absolute power in order to avoid jail time. According to CNN, Trump has hinted during interviews that he has considered running for a third term, disregarding the 22nd Amendment. Trump has expressed his admiration towards dictators who rule without a looming election or campaign, but one particular leader, China’s Xi Jinping, abolished term limits to become president for life last year. By sharing his fascination with Jinping, Trump is proving that he values a leader that ignores the rules of democracy. Democracy is set in place to prevent people like Jinping from dismissing any opposition. A solution to the threat of tyranny, proposed by the Hall Gardner, a professor of International Comparative Politics at American University of
Paris, is that members from Congress should call for a one term limit for the presidency President Trump and President Reagan have claimed that an expansion of the term limit will also cause a decrease in political corruption because less corrupt individuals would run. But, having a corrupt president for 12 years instead of eight would only amplify the negative change they would be able to enact during their time in office. 21 presidents have been reelected to a second term, which highlights the threat of rewriting the 22nd Amendment. If this new system were implemented, presidents running again have a higher tendency of winning, so a corrupt president will stay in office for longer. The term limit is crucial and should not be taken laxly or as an excuse to be kept out of jail. Our American values regarding democracy are essential in ensuring we prevent tyranny and keep our founding ideals intact despite partisan agendas and threats of corruption. The issue of the term limit should remain bipartisan and not be discussed as a way to advance any particular party’s agenda. It is what separates America from monarchies and dictatorships.
as you took your seats on the scalding hot bleachers on Ted Slavin Field. As the sun continued to climb higher in the sky, you looked around. To your left, intimidating seniors laughed and tossed beach balls into the air as their teachers looked on with smiles. To your right, hundreds of expectant faces turned to the stage assembled below. A microphone crackled. “Welcome to HarvardWestlake’s very first all-school convocation…” The ink isn’t dry yet. As
we scribble onto the yearbook pages, we inadvertently smudge each other’s messages. “Dear – I’m going to miss you so – I hope you have a great – I can’t imagine high school without you.” I flip through the yearbook, smiling as I look at this year’s memories. Holiday celebrations, school speakers and club events gleam from their respective photo collages. My hand stops. You rushed from class to class. In the sweltering August heat, you found solace in the maze of the air-conditioned hallways and rooms. While you took your various seats throughout the day, there was one comforting constant: wherever you found yourself, without fail, there was a member of the community trying to make you feel welcome. Row after row of lopsided grins and shining eyes crowd
the spread. I flip through the pages slower now. I see my best friends and my favorite teachers. I glance at the first peers I met at Harvard-Westlake. After six years at HarvardWestlake, I have changed and grown. I know you should always check for extraneous solutions, that it’s important to roll your Rs in Spanish and that historic figures are more complex than they seem. I have traveled back in time with the aid of my textbooks and ventured to foreign countries through my teachers’ lectures. I know the thrill of looking through a microscope and of finishing a painting. And while I believe all of these experiences have shaped my life and helped make me the person that I am today, what I will miss as much as – if not more – than all of these memories are the
people I shared them with. Jessie taught me to take pride in my work and to always have a good attitude. Jackson showed me how a smile can make someone feel welcome and safe. Ms. Darling and Ms. Lawler renewed my library books without question, and Ms. Kennedy was always ready to help me plan an event. I will miss Freddie’s sandwiches and how Lucy always knows my salad order by heart. No bookstore will be the same without Allie’s upbeat singing. Every campus needs a Ms. Bracken and Mr. Church power duo. So what is the last piece of wisdom I will impart on you, Saba? There are some things I can’t teach you. Some things you have to learn from others.
ILLUSTRATION BY HANNAH MITTLEMAN
Testing Trump and term limits By Emma Shapiro
T
Love, Twelfth Grade Saba
hwchronicle.com/opinion
May 30, 2019
Opinion A11
Speaking about the schedule By Ethan Lachman and Jaidev Pant
I
n an email sent to the entire community, the school announced its plan to implement a schedule change beginning in the 2020-2021 school year, when current sophomores will be seniors. The most prominent change in this schedule is the introduction of the block periods, which will create 75-minute class periods to replace the current 45-minute classes. As members of the sophomore class, this schedule will affect us the most out of all current upper school students. So, it is surprising that the New Schedule Committee does not contain students from the sophomore class or below. Although the committee does have student representation, seniors and juniors will never actually experience the new schedule. The senior and junior classes have viewpoints that are essential to its configuration, but shouldn’t the grade that will experience the new schedule firsthand have a say as well? The new schedule does have many positives, but in order to truly understand what it means for our community, we must discuss its shortcomings as well as its benefits. Even though there will be less daily homework, the free periods many students cherish will no longer exist. Free periods can be used for homework, but they are often times used socially,
and without these time slots, students will no longer be able to branch out and make new friends. Furthermore, due to the school-wide lunch period, students will feel inclined to sit with the friends they are already comfortable with, making it even harder to diversify friend groups and strengthen the community as a whole. In addition, a communal lunch period will make it even harder to get food. Due to a relatively small cafeteria, at some points in the day students have to wait ten to 15 minutes just to get their sandwich or a bowl of orange chicken from the cafeteria. With the whole school eating at once, it will be even harder to finish food before the start of class. Many students also tend to use their lunch periods as opportunities to complete homework, yet the communal lunch period and communal meeting periods will mean that everybody is free at the same time. Thus, spaces such as the lounge, library and silent study where students would normally work will fill up and make it harder for students to get their work done at school. Nevertheless, the addition of longer class periods will allow for students to study their material in further depth, become more engaged in the subject and simultaneously receive less homework be-
cause there will be less classes to prepare for each day. This decrease in homework time will, in turn, mitigate the stress of the typical student, allowing students to get more sleep and remain more focused during the school day. With the current schedule, clubs meet during activities period on Monday or Wednesday depending on each week. Whereas students are somewhat boxed in due to the current schedule, the creation of a daily, 25-minute break period will allow clubs to meet on any day of the week, in addition to the 55-minute period on Day Five. Thus, students will be able to participate in and explore more clubs, allowing them to discover what they are truly interested in. With all this being said, by the time the new schedule rolls around, we will be seniors, and the grade below us will be juniors. Both of our grades will have experienced the current schedule, and we will be tasked with adapting to the new. We may struggle temporarily, but we know the administration and the New Schedule Committee has it all under control. For lower grades and future students, there will be no adjustment period and no old schedule - the new schedule will be all they know. If it improves their time here at Harvard-Westlake, then our momentary struggles will all be worth it.
What effect will the 2020-2021 block schedule have on students? Positive: 25% percent Negative: 50% percent Neutral: 25% percent *296 students polled
“It might be a little bit hard to adjust and focus. The lunch period is going to be kind of hectic because we all have the same lunch.”
Ariana Pineda ’21
EMMA SHAPIRO/CHRONICLE
Otis Gordon ’20
“I’m not sure how the schedule change is going to affect our students, but I’m interested to see how the pressures and expectations will change.”
EMMA SHAPIRO/CHRONICLE
Editor-in-Chief Sophie Haber and Presentation Managing Editor Kendall Dees discuss the recent abortion laws in Alabama, Georgia and Ohio and their possible effects on society. They reflect on what the abortion issue means to them and how the laws could set back women’s rights if young women do not speak up.
W
e have both grown up in families that are filled with strong women who have actively promoted women’s rights and gender equality. Through their example and through our own experiences in the world, we have developed a strong sense of responsibility and urgency towards perpetuating the women’s movement. Decades ago, women fought for the right to choose what to do with their own bodies, and they thought they won. But this past month, laws proposed and passed in Alabama, Georgia and Ohio challenged a woman’s right to abortion (read more on page A1). For the first time in our lives, we are being forced to confront the fact that our right to choose is at risk. Even worse, this right is primarily being threatened
by a demographic of people that could never understand what it feels like to live as a woman, susceptible to risk and discrimination that they will never experience. Throughout high school, as we have become more informed of our communities, our eyes have been opened to the ubiquity of misogynistic and sexist rhetoric that frequently and consistently appears in the political arena. In just the last few weeks, we have scrolled through our social media feeds to find a quote spoken by Republican state legislator Lawrence Lockman excusing rape as a man’s right to utilize his strength to force himself on a woman, statistics comparing abortion to gun violence and pictures of pro-life state legislatures dominated by men. Obviously, there is a larger
conversation occurring in our world today that extends beyond reproductive rights and calls into question the value of women’s rights entirely. Even at our age, entering into our first year of adulthood, we have had experiences where we have felt the impact of widespread societal sexism. Although we consider ourselves extremely lucky to live in a city and in a country that is far ahead in terms of gender equality, we still find ourselves targeted or marginalized because we are women. Again and again, our strength, whether that be emotional, intellectual or physical, is undermined, and we find ourselves confined to a different set of expectations. It is heartbreaking for us to realize that as we continue to struggle for progress, one of our fundamental rights is
being challenged. Next to the right to vote, we consider a woman’s right to choose to be one of the most important developments towards achieving gender equality in the 20th century. We understand that these laws will likely not go into effect, at least in the way that they are written now, but the fact that the current climate even allows for this conversation to legitimately occur is deeply upsetting and disappointing. As we enter the world and intend to pursue jobs in fields that are primarily dominated by men, we fear a society where regression is favored over progress. We want to acknowledge that we have been greatly encouraged by the recent surge in the women’s movement, exemplified by the #MeToo movement and the
record number of women elected to Congress this year. However, these developments occur alongside the passing of legislation that is increasingly hostile towards women. It is scary to think that the laws aren’t in our hands and that we could be entering environments where we potentially have no agency to make a difference, even if we speak up. It is unfair and undemocratic to have legislation that targets a specific community be decided primarily by a group of representatives that are personally unaffected by the issue. We know that the passage of these laws has been a wake-up call for us, and we urge other young women to become involved and use their voices. We are afraid of what can happen if we don’t speak up. ILLUSTRATION BY SAMANTHA KO
Community School to The Chronicle • May 30, 2019
use green designs Future construction at Weddington will include eco-friendly, sustainable plans. By Saba Nia
PRINTED WITH PERMISSION OF ANJA CLARK
Students participate in Global Climate Strike
SAVING OUR PLANET: Members of the Environmental Club encouraged students to attend the second Global Climate Strike and fourth Los Angeles climate strike May 24. Club President Anja Clark ’19 was the only attendee from the school. The event, which also included musical performances, attracted approximately 200 students at Pershing Square, Clark said.
New additions to be made to Studio City historic landmark, construction to begin By Jessa Glassman
The owner of the Sportsmen’s Lodge, a Studio City events center, said that the historical landmark will transform into 94,000-square-feet of upscale shops and restaurants including an Erewhon Organic Grocer & Cafe and an Equinox fitness center planned to open by fall of next year, according to the Los Angeles Daily News. The 100 million dollar “Shops at Sportsmen’s Lodge” project will be made up of 23 stores and will begin in August, the owners said according to the Los Angeles Times. Anna Katz ’20 said she thinks the restaurants in the
shopping center will be a good construction didn’t interfere resource for students. with this year’s graduation “We are high school stu- breakfast, which usually takes dents, and we consume a lot place at the event center. more than we need “[It] is important sometimes out of to the graduation cerstress,” Katz said. emonies every year The development for the Harvard-Westwill be constructed lake students,” Cook in a way that emphasaid. “Traditionally, sizes the surrounding the senior breakfast environment. It is set with the graduatto include a nature ing class is with all path to the Los Anthe teachers, Middle ’ geles River, and the School and Upper Amy Sportsmen’s Lodge’s School, and we all Kronenberg ’20 famous pond will be gather there to have preserved, according one last celebration to the Los Angeles Daily News. together before the actual Senior Prefect Caroline event. It makes me a little sad Cook ’19 said that she wished that because of the constructhat the preparation for the tion going on that we are not white s
going to get to participate in that tradition and instead, our gathering with teachers is going to be in Taper instead.” Located at the corner of Ventura Blvd and Coldwater Canyon drive, the new project will not affect the 190 rooms of the moose-antler decorated hotel wing originally built in 1962, according to the Los Angeles Times. Through the years, the location of the Sportsmen’s Lodge has been a bait-and-tackle shop with an adjacent fishing pond and a rustic dining hall frequented by Universal Studios movie casts and crews before becoming a hotel and events hub, according to the Los Angeles Times.
While the school has not finalized any design plans nor chosen an architect, future renovation or construction projects at Weddington Golf & Tennis will include environmentally-conscious features, President Rick Commons said. “It’s concrete and not beautiful to look at as it is now, but we think we can create features on the hillside and create natural environmental features there that will be quite beautiful and really restore that area to the way before it might have looked before concrete and the Los Angeles River,” Commons said. “So, I’m really excited about the environmental features, and I’m really excited about working with the community to make it a win-win.” Besides pursuing design plans with an eco-friendly focus, Commons said that he looks forward to working with the greater Studio City community to provide substantial structural changes to the area. “We work hard to continue to cooperate with our neighbors in that vicinity,” Commons said. “The things that I’m most excited about in that endeavor are the ways in which we think we can benefit the environment through stormwater reclamation and ways in which we can create open spaces that are accessible to the community and really quite beautiful given the surroundings, the trees and the Los Angeles River.”
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Features The Chronicle • May 30, 2019
The 2018-19 school year affected HarvardWestlake and its community in many ways. Here is a recount of some significant events.
Community A number of developments occurred within the upper school community. The school welcomed 24 new faculty and staff members. Faculty members voted for the creation of a new schedule for the upper school, which includes longer periods as well as a new late-start day. Additionally, the spread of pertussis among both campuses resulted in over fifty students contracting the illness. The Environmental Club developed sustainability initiatives that encouraged the use of reusable water bottles and biodegradable utensils.
PHOTO BY SABA NIA PHOTO BY SOPHIE HABER
HDUB
G0HW
Clubs
Arts
Eight photography students presented their works and spoke at the first-ever Photoville Los Angeles, a free photography exhibition, and Will Berlin ’19 displayed portraits of individuals on Rodeo Drive in the Feldman-Horn Gallery. In the performing arts department, Assistant Features Editor Zoe Redlich ’20 developed the first pop-up play festival, where students produced plays over one day. Film students traveled to Laos and Choir singers went to Italy to pursue their talents. Dance students put on a Dance Concert appreciating the works of artists.
Various clubs achieved several feats this year. Varsity debaters earned 58 bids to the Tournament of Champions, a national tournament in Lexington, KY, setting a nationwide record. Two robotics subteams went to the VEX Robotics World Championship in Louisville, KY. Affinity groups made important gains for diversity on campus through the creation of the Student Leaders In Diversity and Equity conference to connect leaders of cultural clubs, the ROY G BIV dance for LGBTQ youth and a new civil rights tour to help students learn about the movement.
PRINTED WITH PERMISSION OF COLIN YUAN ’22
ART5
Sports
PHOTO BY RYAN ALBERT
WVRN
Harvard-Westlake squads advanced to a number of CIF championships and finals. Field hockey won the CIF title and the LAFHA championship for the second consecutive year, having won every single game for the past two years. Boys’ Water Polo also became CIF division one champions after maintaining a record of 25-5 for the season, and the team also won Mission League Title. Baseball reached CIF division one finals before losing to Cypress High School, and MaxPreps ranked the Wolverines as third best team in the nation.
PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY SPENCER KLINK
B2 Features
May 30, 2019
The Chronicle
Fight Back Students discuss how they feel about ALICE training and the effects of the frequency of school shootings on their daily lives. By Jeanine Kim
“Don’t get me wrong, I was scared and anxious during [ALICE training], Waiting in a dark classroom with but I’d rather be frightened for twenthirty of his classmates, Jack Hoppus ty minutes in a controlled setting than ’20 took a deep breath to steady him- face a gunman in a real-life situation self after he went through shooter-pre- and not know what to do,” Hoppus paredness training, an experience said. marked by loud bangs and total chaLast year, after alumnus Jonathan os, but also one he said was complete- Martin shared a threatening photo of a ly necessary for the safety of students gun on his Instagram with the hashtag on campus. #harvardwestlake, ALICE training and Since the shooting at Columbine security measures in general became High School, many institutions, in- widely-talked about on campus as cluding Harvard-Westlake, students grappled with the have incorporated Alert, perceptible threat of campus Lockdown, Inform, Counter, violence. Evacuate (ALICE) training in Last year, three memtheir active-shooter protocol bers of the Slam Poetry due to the increasing prevateam, Sophie Kim ’19, Meera lence of shooters on school Sastry ’19 and Jenny Yoon campuses. ALICE has be’19, wrote a poem about the come increasingly popular incident. across the country and is “We created the piece ’ now widely accepted to be together to respond to the Jack the standard response to event of our school being Hoppus ’20 threats on campus, accordclosed down due to this ing to the ALICE training website. threat,” Yoon said. “Now that this hapAs new students to the Upper pened to us, I know how real it is.” School, sophomores go through ALPerforming the poem at the anICE training during one of their class nual Get Lit poetry competition, Kim, meetings, experiencing a simulation Sastry and Yoon got to the semifinals, prepared by school security to demon- receiving a perfect score during the strate what to do in the case of a first round with their piece. school shooting. In a classroom on the “I think we need to take immedifar side of campus, near the junior lot, ate action right now so we don’t have students simulate fighting an attack- to face horrible things like this in the er, with a member of the security team future,” Yoon said. with a gun firing blanks outside. Using Like Yoon, Hoppus said he thinks tennis balls as makeshift ammunition the recent increase in campus violence and stacking up desks as obstacles, has been alarming. Since the 1999 students learn how to act proactively Columbine shooting, there have been when faced with a violent threat. more than 230 incidents of gun vioHoppus, a current junior, experi- lence on campuses, according to NBC enced ALICE training last year during Connecticut. his class meeting and said that the Because of the high frequency of session was incredibly intense. active-shooter incidents, particularly white s
in K-12 schools, many places have put Diana Castellanos ’20, whose greater emphasis on actively counter- mother is the assistant principal at ing threats rather than the tradition- Hawthorne Math and Science Acadal “lockdown” approach, which man- emy, said she thinks that ALICE dates locking down all classrooms and training should be more frequent and waiting for law enforcement to come more comprehensive. At her mother’s and confront the shooter. school, the local Hawthorne Police DeMost recently, incidents at Uni- partment works with the administraversity of North Carolina at Charlotte tion to implement a school-wide drill, and STEM School Highlands Ranch locking down the entire campus and have revealed the effectiveness of these evaluating students’ performances aftactics but also the dangerous conse- terwards. quences for those who fight. During “It’s intense, but it’s undeniably the UNC Charlotte necessary, especialshooting, 21-yearly in this present old Riley Howell took climate,” CastellaI think we need three bullets while nos said. “I think we to take immediate righ tackling the gunman, should implement a sacrificing his life to similar policy here.” action now so we don’t save his classmates, Castellanos said have to face horrible according to The New she thinks there things like this in the York Times. should be a general Similarly, May 7, escalation of school future.” 18-year-old Kendrick shooter preparedness —Jenny Yoon ’19 training, either with Castillo died while lunging at the shootsimilar all-school er, giving his classdrills or additional mates the time to hide from the on- ALICE training during students’ junior slaught of bullets, according to CNN. or senior years. Although these two incidents high“Since we only do it one time light the heroism of these students as during our sophomore year, it’s only well as the efficacy of proactive sur- natural that we forget about it in a vival training programs like ALICE, year or two, meaning we won’t know they also demonstrate the potentially what to do if we actually have to face life-threatening dangers that students that kind of situation,” Castellanos face when they decide to confront said. shooters head-on. Similarly, Hoppus said he thinks Because of the consequences, that ALICE training is not only necesmany people are voicing their dissat- sary for the survival of the community isfaction with ALICE training, with but for preparedness in general. much of the opposition saying that “It really bothered me that people it’s not only dangerous but ineffective, didn’t take it seriously,” Hoppus said. forcing minors to put their own lives “Everyone should understand that on the line for a confrontation that it’s not a joke. It’s for possibly life-ormight not work, according to The At- death situations, and we need to take lantic. it seriously.”
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PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY SARAH HEALY AND JEANINE KIM
B3 FEATURES
MAY 30, 2019
THE CHRONICLE
Students voice their opinions on the SAT’s new adversity score policy created to help disadvantaged test-takers. “Students who are in other areas just don’t have access to the kind Tutoring and prep books com- of resources that we have. As somebined, Sandra’s* parents spent one who came from public school $2000 on their child to score a 1570 and who has friends in many differon the March SAT. Without their ent schools throughout the area, I support, Sandra said she would not have so many friends who are just have been able to reach her score. as smart and capable, but maybe Students without this support, might not come across quite as well however, have always been at an on paper because they don’t have unfair disadvantage, Sandra said. access to the same kind of deans In an effort to capture students’ and college advising that we have.” social and economic background According to a Chronicle poll in the college admissions process, of 303 students, nine percent said the College Board will issue a new they believe the score will be advanrating, widely referred to as the “ad- tageous to them, while 65 percent versity score,” to every student who said it will negatively impact them. takes the SAT beginning this fall. However, the score may fail to The score will considaccurately represent stuer 15 different factors, indents’ circumstances, Otis cluding the crime rate and Gordon ’20 said. poverty level of the stu“Say you live in an afdent’s neighborhood, as fluent community; [Colwell as the relative quallege Board will] give you ity of the student’s high a score saying that you’re school, in order to level the over-privileged or whatevplaying field for students er, but people from low-inwith economic disadvancome [communities] who ’ tages, according to the work their ass off to go to Alex New York Times. a good school and live in a Poe ’20 Alex Poe ’20 said she nice community are going hopes that the new score will help to be at a disadvantage,” Gordon students of all backgrounds have said. “Also, I feel like there’s loopa fair chance in the college admis- holes. People who are rich [can] sions process. buy a house in a poor community “I think that as Harvard-West- and say they live there. I say there lake students, we have a lot of priv- [might be people who will] take adilege, and although some might vantage of this.” say that it’s not our fault that we Though she believes it is imhave privilege, we do have portant for colleges to account for it, and that the advantages that some students puts us in may have over others, Helen Graa significant ham ’21 said she is unsure how advantage,” the adversity score would Poe said. e n c a p sulate other By CASEY KIM
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circumstances. goes for the other way around be“Some students only have one cause if you live in not the best parent present, and this sets them neighborhood, but your family has at a disadvantage at a young age if a lot of money, it’s easier. It’s a case their parent or guardian is work- by case basis, but I think overall it’s ing full-time and can’t spend time going to cause more stress.” talking or reading to their child As someone who has taken the because this offsets their develop- ACT, Paige Corman ’20 said she is ment,” Graham said. “I think that glad that students will have the opthere will never be a way to ensure tion to choose if the adversity score that the standardized testing system will affect them. is equal because lack of opportuni“I think that there will be some ty and other extenuating circum- students who will feel that the adstances have such a dramatic effect versity score will work against them on student’s performance on these and will take the ACT instead, but I tests that it is difficult to account hope they will choose which test to for every possible disadvantage that take based on which they feel they some students have.” can perform better on,” Corman Before the said. score was adAccording to a ministered, howChronicle poll of 303 I think that it’s ever, college adstudents, 29 percent going to end up with kids said the new adversity missions officers were able to read score will impact their in affluent areas taking applicants’ prodecision on which tests like the ACT or files contextualstandardized test to applying to colleges that take. ly, Head of Upper School Laura Having not yet don’t require the SAT. Ross, who previdecided which test —John Szijjarto ’21 to take, Graham said ously worked as Associate Directhat College Board’s tor of Admission at Scripps College new rating will not affect her deciand Associate Director of Under- sion on whether she will take the graduate Admission and Director SAT or ACT next fall. of Transfer Admission at Columbia “[The score] would not affect my University, said. decision because I go to a private “I sort of appreciate their in- school, live in a safe neighborhood tent, and certainly you want every and have privilege inherently bestudent’s application to be read cause I am white, and it is importcontextually and understand what ant to me that these advantages advantages they have, but it feels that I was born into should not put to me that they are trying to over- me ahead of those that do not,” Gracome the fact that [the SAT] has so ham said. much bias in it,” Ross said. “As a Kelly*, who moved to a wealthy former admissions officer, my whole neighborhood in the beginning of job was to read contextually. I didn’t her junior year, said that the score need the College Board to give me could hurt more people than it a number. We’re always trying to could help. “In my case, [the score] could look at where does this student come from and what was available. hurt me because halfway through That’s already happening. Maybe high school, I moved, and the area I it’s because I worked at private in- moved to had a higher socioeconomstitutions that had those resources, ic status than [where I lived] before,” so maybe for a big state school that Kelly said. “But that wasn’t a result doesn’t have that opportunity, this of my household income changing or increasing. It just happened that may be helpful.” John Szijjarto ’21 said the new the area that we moved to had a score may also cause more students higher average socioeconomic stawho reside in affluent areas to take tus. That doesn’t reveal anything about my work ethic, my grades or the ACT. “I think it’s really good that the overall adversity I face in life.” College Board is trying to level the In spite of the debate surroundplaying field and make it easier for ing College Board’s new initiative, kids [who are] low-income or don’t Ross said she believes that it will have as many resources to be able have little impact on the students at to get into these really prestigious the school. colleges, but I think that it’s going “ACT and SAT are in business to end up with kids in affluent areas competition,” Ross said. “SAT has taking tests like the ACT or apply- been losing so much market share ing to colleges that don’t require the to ACT, so this just seems like another way they’re trying gain marSAT,” Szijjarto said. The adversity score may also ket share. I often feel like that the place more pressure on families to moves that institutions like the send their students to SAT prepara- College Board make are not about serving kids, even if they say that tion academies, Szijjarto said. “If you live in an affluent area they are. So, while I hope all admisor go to an affluent school, but your sions is contextual and kids are befamily doesn’t have resources to ing seen with an understanding of send you to get test prep from com- all the advantages and challenges panies like Compass, then it’s going they’ve had in their lives and how to be a lot more stressful for you they made the most of whatever sitbecause there’s that extra thing to uation they were in, I have to admit worry about,” Szijjarto said. “Same to feeling a little skeptical.”
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ILLUSTRATIONS BY HALEY LEVIN ’20 AND KYRA HUDSON
The Chronicle
B4 Features
Terms and Conditions Female students reflect on and discuss the pressure they feel to “hook up” with older guys in order to get invited to parties.
ILLUSTRATION BY SAM KO ’19
May
30, 2019
hwchronicle.com/features
By Sofia Heller and Jenny Li
said. “Most of the time, I’m not intoxicated, and I’m like, ‘What are you doing, you can’t be do“What will you do for me in ing that right now.’ They think return?” Eliza* ’19 remembered I’m more drunk than I am, and they come onto me in a way.” him asking. Amanda said that the boys’ She had just tried to get her friends invited to the party that status as upperclassmen is a weekend, and he responded in a main component of their power tone that left her with no doubt over girls in all grades, but espeabout his implication. He want- cially younger girls. “A lot of senior boys use the ed her to “hook up” with him in intimidation that comes along return. For months, he had been ver- with being older and coerce girls bally harassing her, and he was into doing certain things, not not the only one. Eliza said she necessarily non consensual, had been approached at school but more doing something they and parties by guys whose in- would not do if it was not a seterest she did not reciprocate. nior,” Amanda said. As a junior last year, EliLooking around the room at parties, she said she felt it was clear za said she attended multiple why those same guys chose to parties thrown by seniors after being invited by different invite her and none senior guys. When she did of her friends. not hook up with them, “The only reason she said they proceeded to they wanted me to gossip about her and inbe there is to hook sult her. up with me,” Eli“It made me feel horriza said. “That was ble because I wasn’t ready it. They didn’t care to hook up with them, and about me as a perI wasn’t actually that inson or anything, ’ terested in them,” Eliza and the girls [at the Michelle said. “Maybe I liked them parties] didn’t care Bracken as a friend and was fine enough to get to going to a party with them, know me.” Unfortunately, Eliza’s story is but I didn’t want to do anything not unique, she said. She said with them. It made me realize she has noticed guys using se- that the party scene is mostly niority, popularity and wealth about that, how much clout you to their advantage when pursu- have and the people you hang ing a girl, creating a toxic and out with.” Earlier this year, Amanda sometimes dangerous hook-up culture. In a Chronicle survey was added to the list of senior of 295 students, 21 percent said parties only after she and her they have felt pressured to hook boyfriend broke up. “It revealed my sole purpose up with someone at a party. “I think that older guys have of being there,” Amanda said. always been interested in young- “The sole reason why they wanter girls,” Eliza said. “I think they ed me to come was the possiget so blinded by the power they bility of me [getting] with one have based on the wealth they of their friends. It made me feel have or the privilege and the unwanted. They project these ability to throw those big parties parties as something so great that they then use it to hook up that everybody who comes is super fun and amazing. If I am with people.” Like Eliza, Amanda* ’20 at- seen as someone who’s there for tends parties thrown by upper- such superficial stuff, I feel like classmen, where she said she I don’t actually belong and I’m has observed guys using target- there under false pretenses.” Although Amanda said she ed strategies in order to get a girl to hook up with them. For exam- recognizes her and many othple, she said there are guys who er girls’ negative experiences at will wait until she gets a drink parties, she feels socially obligated to attend. before they approach her. “It’s a perpetual cycle in a “It seems like the boys are trying to be aware of when they can way,” Amanda said. “You know take advantage of me,” Amanda it’s bad, and you know you white s
Features B5
should not be going, but you’re “I know all of my friends, and scared if you don’t go, you’ll be I don’t stand for [predatory betaken off the list forever and havior],” Jeff said. “We never won’t be included in something would, and we think that’s disa lot of people are included in. gusting. I think almost all HarThat sense of being excluded vard-Westlake guys, at least to isn’t fun for anybody. You have my knowledge, see it the same to risk being degraded to be in- way. It’s gross. I don’t think anycluded.” one wants to do that or really Jeff* ’19, who has thrown needs to do that.” many parties this year, said he However, as someone who did not initially expect the anxi- has repeatedly experienced a ety that many people have when predatory hook-up culture at it comes to being invited. parties this year, Amanda said “I don’t really mean any she believes people who think it harm, and it’s just a lot of tough doesn’t exist choose not to see it. decisions to make about people,” “If their friend is doing anyJeff said. “I really saw how much thing that is considered bad, it affected people. I just never re- they choose to turn away and ally put that much care into this choose to disregard it because kind of thing. I just did it for fun. they don’t want to ruin the party It’s just so hard when you’re put or cause a scene,” Amanda said. in this position. “Just because The more kids they don’t see that are invited, something hapThat sense of the more kids pening doesn’t being excluded isn’t fun mean it’s not that are excluded.” happening.” for anybody. You have This points Bracken said to risk being degraded to the concept many male stuof wanting to bedents may not to be included.” long, Counselor acknowledge sex—*Amanda ’20 ual intimidation Michelle Bracken said. as predatory be“We can ratiocause they still nalize anything receive consent, in our brains, and I think psy- even if it is pressured. chologically, we want to belong, “People are very able to say, and we think, ‘Well, maybe this ‘I’m not raping someone; it’s not will just be the last time, and fi- assault because they are givnally, I’ll be part of it,’” Bracken ing me consent,’” Bracken said. said. “It can be quite damaging “When we talk about the #Meto a young girl’s future, how she Too movement, it talks about a views sex and how she might whole bunch of that behavior, view herself.” and I think that women might Bracken also said she thinks recognize that, but [some] men that when guys manipulate their say it’s consent.” power as an older classmate to Although she said these pressure younger girls to hook pressures have always subtly up with them, it is an extreme- existed, Bracken said she sees ly dangerous version of sexual the potential for change with inpressure. creasing female empowerment. “Those are predators,” Brack“I think [#MeToo] has brought en said. “Those are people who more awareness to young men, prey on young girls, knowing which is really important bethat they are not going to say cause I think they haven’t been no to them because they’re old- aware of some issues,” Bracken er than them. It is as bad as a said. “I think it has empowered sexual predator. It’s somebody women to be like, ‘No, that’s not who knows exactly what they’re okay.’ That is going to make a doing. I’m sure that that behav- difference. How it makes a difior is done in such a subtle way, ference and how fast, I can’t and people don’t recognize it.” say. It’s not an overnight kind Although Jeff said he has of process, but it has certainly seen instances of this in the brought more awareness.” past, he believes that sexual pressures have been much less prevalent this year. *Names have been changed
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ILLUSTRATION BY SAM KO ’19
B6 Features
The Chronicle
May 30, 2019
Abort Mission mate and unfortunately, it has shown me how much work needs Louisiana passed a bill May 21 to be done in inspiring change. declaring abortion unconstitu- I can feel that my community tional and illegal in the state, from back home in Los Angeles and even my community in colaccording to The Advocate. “I am opposed to this bill [be- lege are outraged and ready to cause] it will deprive women of get involved in whatever ways their rights to choose if this bill they can.” While the liberal majority of is held as constitutional,” Louisiana State Senator Troy Car- California will keep the state ter said. “[But the bill is] very from passing any anti-abortion close [to passing]; there are not legislation, according to Nationenough votes to block this un- al Public Radio, many students, such as Becca Frischling, who constitutional bill.” Author of the bill and State will also be attending Emory Representative in the Louisi- University, said they are conana House of Representatives cerned about the legislation Katrina Jackson said that the especially if the are attending majority of Louisiana supports college in the states where laws have been passed. pro-life legislation. “Hearing about the new abor“I worked with advocates to tion laws definitely write this bill,” Jackson did make me more said. “We went through nervous, in addition multiple drafts before to upsetting me on a we filed it. I wrote the fundamental level,” bill because I support Frischling said. “As a life.” woman going into colThe bills that are belege, I think it’s someing passed will affect thing that would be people who live in the of concern to almost states as well as stu’ everyone in the situadents who attend college Becca tion.” there. Frischling’19 The newly developed “It has become an infear that is arising credibly scary situation for me and any female, espe- in students going to school in cially at the age where we’re in states passing legislation limitcollege with this anti-abortion ing abortion access is not exclubill,” Kristin Kuwada ’18, who is sive to Frischling. “I think it is terrifying for any currently attending Emory University in Georgia, said. “I have woman, especially young girls going off to college, to know had many friends and acquainthey do not have autances who have had a pregthority over their nancy scare and the thought own bodies,” that they would not be alLily Block lowed the right to make ’19, who will their own choice that be attendwill change their life ing Tulane forever is completely Un iver sit y unjust. Coming from in Louisiana, a liberal state and said. “All mogoing to college rality things in a more conseraside, no vative southern state like Georgia has exposed me to a whole new political cli• Continued from A1
white s
other human being should be “right to privacy” that protects able to dictate what is right or a pregnant woman’s liberty to wrong when it comes to a wom- choose whether or not to have an wanting to have an abortion.” an abortion. In fact, some students who “It would be a violation if they have not started the college pro- were directly trying to block cess yet said that the anti-abor- women’s access to abortion tion bills being passed will affect rights,” history teacher Conrad where they will consider going to Cuda said. “The way that some college. of the states are trying to find “I don’t want to consider ways around that is there is no schools in places where these requirement actually fund prolaws are being put into effect,” grams that allow access. There Piper said. “I really want to pri- are some arguments there that oritize my safety in case I’m ever are trying to limit funding. in another situation where I There is this focus of free exermight need an abortion.” cise within the first amendment Following the passing of of religion versus the establishthese bills, there has been a lot ment clause on where to define of public disapproval, according life. The argument that [aborto Fox News. Along with celebri- tion] can now be criminalized. ties and politicians voicing their All of these are attempts of tryobjections to the ing to find the legislation, many right case to rising college stuoverturn [Roe v. No other human Wade].” dents who will be moving to states At the mobeing should be able to with the new anment, the Sudictate what is right or ti-abortion laws preme Court are vocalizing declined wrong when it comes to has their concerns as to hear cases a woman wanting an well. brought by Kanabortion.” “Going to sas and Louisischool in the ana which could —Lily Block ’19 potentially limit South had been something I was abortion rights, a little nervous about for a long according to the New York time, [but] I do feel a little bit Times. But until the Supreme better because a large portion of Court agrees to hear a case that my incoming class at Emory has questions Roe v. Wade, none of already started a letter writing the new anti-abortion laws can campaign to representatives in be implemented. Alabama and Georgia sharing “I feel that it’s disgusting that their dissenting views on the people are using the current ponew abortion laws,” Frischling litical climate to try and oversaid. “So, I am at least proud to turn a monumental decision know that I am going to a school for women’s rights, and I think and a community that shares everyone should be upset about my values and will be vocal this regardless of where you’re about them.” going next year and take action Despite all of the recent pass- in whatever community you are ing of these bills, they cannot go a part of,” Frischling said. “I into effect because of the Roe v. hope that by being in the geoWade Supreme Court Case. The graphic hotbed for this particuSupreme Court decided that lar issue I can use my voice to due to the 14th Amendment, make as much of an impact as the U.S. Constitution provides possible.” a fundamental *Names have been changed.
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PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY KYRA HUDSON
May 30, 2019
hwchronicle.com/features
Features B7
As seniors prepare for college, many are cleaning up their social media pages to improve chances of finding new friends.
By Tammer Bagdasarian and Lindsay Wu
profiles of other admitted students introducing themselves,” Baskin said. “I have not personally posted Avery Keare ’19 smiled as her in the group, but I have interacted FaceTime call connected and her with a few other people going to my future roommate’s face appeared in school who have made posts. I did the frame. Though the two had nev- click on their profiles and look at er spoken with each other before, their pictures to get a better sense their conversation flowed as if they of who they were.” had known one another for years. When Dylan Wan ’18 arrived at Weeks beforehand, Keare had come New York University for Welcome across her roommate’s introductory Week, an orientation program for post in the college’s admitted Face- incoming students, social media book group, looked up her account suddenly took on a new role, he and direct messaged her through said. Instagram pages and SnapInstagram. chat stories were no longer just “I thought [my roommate] platforms to connect with friends. seemed chill and fun so I reached Rather, they turned into indispensout,” Keare said. “I wantable tools to make first ed to find my own roomimpressions and get to mate to guarantee that know other students betI really clicked with my ter, Wan said. roommate instead of be“That week I met at ing stuck with someone least 15 to 20 people a I didn’t mesh with for a day, and I got their Snapwhole year. I wanted to chats and Instagrams ’ find someone who would most of the time,” Wan Avery be down for random adsaid. “What I saw on Keare ’19 ventures and not cause their social media realany drama. [Instagram and Face- ly affected my perception of them book] helped me get a better read and whether I would try to become on my roommate because on her friends with them during school. [profile pages], she didn’t seem You can tell who the super enthuto take herself too seriously and siastic party-goers are, and for me, seemed pretty chill.” that meant that maybe I wouldn’t For admitted students, so- hang out with them that much, but cial media is an important tool for I also saw people who post about building new relationships leading activities that I am interested in up to college. In a Chronicle poll of who I wanted to get to know a little 143 seniors, 78 percent them said better.” they have used social media platUpper school dean Adam Howforms to connect with their future ard said that he advises them to peers. reach out to their college communiFollowing her college accep- ties through social media after they tance in December, Caity Baskin have decided what school they will ’19 created a Facebook account for be attending. the first time in order to join the “I think with such a reliance group where students accepted to on social media these days, it is a her college could chat and share great way to build some friendships posts about themselves. She said before you get on campus,” Howard it has helped her learn about some said. “It can really help people feel students she will be with for the less alone when they first arrive to next four years. college because they will already “I wanted to be able to read the have connections and be integrated white s
in the student body.” once in However, due to the nature college to of social media, individuals often make friends change their social media profiles if I had some photo portray themselves in a more tos of myself online,” polished way, Baskin said. In a Cassie said. “Because I Chronicle poll of 139 students, 22 don’t post very much, I think percent said that they have or will about what these posts make me alter their social media accounts to look like to someone I might be gomake themselves look better to col- ing to college with who hasn’t met leges or any of their future class- me in real life. I consider how I look mates. physically and also just what that “I think people definitely use post makes me seem like as a perthe fact that social media is curated son.” and totally controllable to put their Even though online profiles are best face forward, which is a temp- not always fully genuine, social metation I understand,” Baskin said. dia remains a necessary resource “I think the more that people hide for students in today’s era, Baskin the ‘real,’ sometimes said. negative parts of “The most their lives, the more [Social media] can useful thing for there is a pressure me about soreally help people feel for everybody else cial media is it less alone when they first opening a door to do the same so as arrive to college.” not to appear differto access outside ent or struggling.” — Adam Howard of face to face Wan said he Upper School Dean interaction with noticed that some people that I othof his former classerwise would not mates tried to fabricate before have,” Baskin said. “I would feel freshman year. disadvantaged going into the next “It is really easy to tell who chapter of my life being completely wants to reinvent themselves,” Wan separate from the world of digital said. “A lot of the time, they’ll de- interaction.” lete almost all of their photos from Similarly, Chase Van Amburg before and start posting things that ’20, who currently does not have an you wouldn’t expect out of them. account on any form of social meIt will probably translate to school dia, said he foresees himself taktoo, because they’ll start acting like ing advantage of alternative forms their new social media profile and of communication as he graduates they probably won’t want to associ- from high school and prepares for ate with people who knew them in his college career. the past.” “At least in high school, I wantCassie* ’19 said she started ed to limit myself so that I make feeling pressure to alter her social person-to-person connections with media image once college decisions other people,” Van Amburg said. ended. After being largely inactive “I probably will end up creating a on Instagram in recent years, Cas- Facebook or Instagram account besie said that talk of college and find- fore going to college so that I can ing roommates made her feel obli- meet people before entering a whole gated to upload pictures that will new environment. I think I will almake her look the best way possi- low myself the liberty and the utility ble to her future peers. of social media because it is import“I thought it would be easier ant for connection.”
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ILLUSTRATION BY SPENCER KLINK AND KYRA HUDSON
B8 Features
The Chronicle
May 30, 2019
Four students reflect on their individual college admissions processes and look ahead to the next four years of their lives at their respective schools. By Kaelyn Bowers and Alison Oh The Artistic Activist “Ashley”: Xenia Bernal After receiving results from her regular decision applications in the spring, Xenia Bernal ’19 decided to attend Connecticut College. However, rather than committing to attend in the fall, she is now seriously considering taking a gap year in Berlin, Germany to intern at National Public Radio Berlin and research the histories of Jewish Holocaust survivors. “[My gap year plan] would be me delving deeper into research in terms of the Holocaust, going to the Holocaust Memorial Museum, the Jewish Museum in Berlin and just all these different cultural excursions and things that I can see to get even deeper into that,” Bernal said. “I want to get involved and interview Holocaust survivors in Germany. I think [that] would be powerful for me, just to be able to record that.” At college, Bernal plans to major in political science and sociology, and her passion for learning about different cultures was the driving factor behind her decision to attend Connecticut College. “I was able to talk to a lot of the professors in the sociology and political science departments, and they have very interesting research programs,” Bernal said. “Also, the people of color there are very engaged in the community. They’re very involved in community service, in student government and in student leadership opportunities. There are a lot of programs that help connect people from different cultures and ethnicities, which I think is very cool.” Bernal would advise future college applicants to start their applications early. “I wish that I would’ve started the application sooner because it’s incredibly overwhelming,” Bernal said. “Overwhelming means having stress and fear and all of that
when you start too late, and you’re applying to all of these colleges, especially because I applied to a lot of colleges. Doing the applications earlier would have been a smart move, not necessarily so I would have had more time, but just so that I would have felt less stressed and overwhelmed.” The Charismatic “Cody”: Loyal Terry
Captain
Since committing to Grinnell College to play football, Loyal Terry ’19 has spent time relaxing and mentally preparing for the transition to come this fall. “We talk a lot as seniors like, ‘Oh, I’m ready to go,” but there still is that slight worry that things will not go the way you would want them to go,” Terry said. “What I’m trying to do is I’m thinking about how great of a time I had [when I visited], knowing that one of my best friends is going there and that it’s a place that wanted me.” Terry said he chose Grinnell because he can envision himself making an impact on campus, just as he made an impact at Harvard-Westlake. “I feel like I’ve left a sort of legacy here, being a prefect, a [Black Leadership Awareness and Culture Club] member and a Head Fanatic, so I wanted to be in a place again where I wasn’t just a number,” Terry said. “Grinnell offered me that, with being able to be at a smaller liberal arts school but still having around a $1.2 billion endowment so financial aid and all those things aren’t a problem.” Reflecting on his experience, Terry said he would advise students to keep an open mind throughout the application process. “What I tell a lot of people now is that obviously there’s a reason to stress because you want to end up in the best situation, but you can’t control the process,” Terry said. “You don’t know how it’s going to end up. You can have a pretty good idea, especially in my case because I was getting recruited, but even
then, don’t put unnecessary stress on yourself because you’re not the one making the decision.”
The Musical Mastermind “Mitchell”: Charlie Kogen
After waiting to hear from the University of Southern California after getting into Stanford early action, Charlie Kogen ’19 has decidBianca Bergsneider ’19 finished ed to enroll in the Stanford class her college application process in of 2023. December when she was admitKogen said that after meeting ted to Brown’s Program in Liberal other future students in his class, Medical Education early decision. some of his worries surrounding Although she’s known where she the transition to Stanford have will be going to Brown for almost dissipated. six months, Bergsneider says that “I think I’m about ready for colthe transition is still daunting to lege,” Kogen said. “I went to the her. Stanford admitted students week“It hasn’t end so that was fun. There really hit was lots of intense me that its programming and Don’t put unending,” I met a lot of peoB e r g s n e iple there.” necessary stress der said. Although Koon yourself be“I don’t gen said he is cause you’re not k n o w . excited to start Nothing has college, he said the one making hit me that I’m going he is also sad the decision.” away yet.” that the routines Bergsneider said he is familiar — Loyal Terry ’19 that the prospect of with are ending. leaving home has been “I’m starting to difficult to process. feel nostalgic about my friends and “I’m just going through the mo- music,” Kogen said. “I’ve pretty tions,” Bergsneider said. “I’m at- much had the last of all my classes tending classes and pretending [at Harvard-Westlake].” like everything is normal. Just Kogen said he will most miss because I’ve never even lived any- playing in a jazz band called “the where else, so the fact that I’m go- Jack Riley Experience” with his ing away, and now for certain I’m friends. However, he plans to congoing away for eight years, it’s kind tinue playing music at college. “At Stanford, [bandmate and of overwhelming.” Unlike her, many of Bergsnei- fellow Stanford admit] Ryan Wixder’s friends have begun to pre- en ’19 and I might do stuff,” Kogen said. “I might join the jazz band pare for their new environments. “I know that there are certain in the future and I might minor in people who have looked at all the music technology, but I have a lot courses and tried to figure out of majors I’m interested in.” Kogen’s advice for juniors apwhat they are going to buy for their dorm room, but, for me, I’m just proaching the college process is to such a perfectionist that I don’t stay calm. “Trust the college process,” Koeven want to look at that until I have to,” Bergsneider said. “So, gen said. “I sort of just got lucky, right now, I’m probably just trying but you’ll get in somewhere, and the school that chooses you sees to stay in the moment.” Bergsneider said she is most something in you that you like.” excited about meeting new people, making new friends and studying *Names have been changed. in a new setting. The Sporty Scientist “Mary”: Bianca Bergsneider
ILLUSTRATION BY SPENCER KLINK
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT The Chronicle•May 30, 2019
Artists and Activists Students discuss how they share their political opinions through their artwork.
By TAMMER BAGDASARIAN “Paint something you really care about,” drawing and painting teacher Claire Cochran ’06 said to Mimi Offor ’21 in an empty art studio last January. A few minutes later, Cochran walked out the door, but her words lingered in Offor’s mind, leaving a lasting impact on Offor’s attitude toward art. Now, Offor approaches each new idea, each color choice and each brush stroke with one purpose at the forefront of her mind—bringing Nigeria’s largely unseen realities to light, she said. Over the past year and a half, Offor, a Nigerian immigrant who came to the United States as a three-year-old, has centered her artwork on changing how many Americans view Africa. Her paintings include messages about economic and political subjects, such as wealth inequality, mass corruption and social issues in Nigeria, Offor said. “In my art, I want to show others the real Nigeria—the Nigeria that I know,” Offor said. “I want to show others that Africa is not just a community service opportunity and that there are real problems going on that need to be addressed.” Whether it is through documentaries, short films, paintings, sculptures or other creative work, Cochran said that students are in-
creasingly using art as a medium for activism. Cochran said she thinks that today’s social climate lends itself to political expression through art. “Throughout history, there have been different moments in time when art has played a critical role in society, and whether this is the most important moment or not, it is definitely up there,” Cochran said. “It is one of these critical times when young voices matter so much, and with so many kids in this generation being active politically and socially, we are seeing an explosion of political activism within art.” For Annabel Zimmer ’20, including activist messages in her art came naturally, she said. As an advocate of progressive ideas and social justice her entire life, Zimmer said she found photography as an outlet for her activism in seventh grade. “I would steal my older brother’s camera and sneak around, taking photos of whatever I was inspired by,” Zimmer said. “There was no set moment when my activism and passion for photography clicked together, but rather, I think they naturally bled into each other. By playing around with the camera, I realized how the power of photos could really bring out important messages.” Recently, Zimmer worked with Sophia Nuñez ’20 and Echo Seireeni ’21 on a photography project about the fluidity of gender, sexual orientation and racial identity, inspired by American photographer Cindy Sherman. In the series of photographs, Nuñez begins with a bare face, but gradually puts on makeup and a wig that represent eurocentric beauty standards, Nuñez said. “In the 70’s, Cindy Sherm a n created
this piece of herself in which issues that can negatively imshe transitions through drag pact the communities that I makeup from looking mascu- identify with.” line to becoming hyper-femTo best communicate their inine,” Zimmer said. “We messages, students should wanted to do the same thing not only develop their own with [Nuñez] because she has ideas, but should also find the a shaved head but we also type of art that best speaks to wanted to incorporate aspects them, Cochran said. For Ofof race and identity because for, a transition from photoga lot of people do not under- raphy and realistic sketches stand how hard it is for some- to more abstract paintings one to check one box that ex- allowed her to manipulate plains who they are.” her art and bring forth its However, ideas like Zim- message in more meaningful mer’s are successful only ways, she said. when they come from an or“Before [trying new apganic pasproaches], I had sion, Coone definition in By playing chran said. my head which As an adviswas that a paintaround with the er to student ing should look camera, I realized how projects, Colike a photo, and the power of photos chran said that’s the only her role is way a painting could really bring out primarily to could be beautiimportant messages.” guide and ful,” Offor said. give direc—Annabel Zimmer ’20 “But I quickly tion to sturealized that bedents’ art, cause I can paint, not to force ideas and emo- I should take advantage of the tions upon them. secret weapon painters have “One of the most important of not being forced to make things is that you have a real their work look like real life. and tangible connection to the I started to talk about whatpiece of cultural activism you ever I want to talk about and are making, and that is some- I could convey my message thing that has to come from to the viewer through little the student, not the teacher,” things I added to the painting. Cochran said. “When stu- Once I realized that, the opdents include messages they portunities became limitless.” truly care about, their conNo matter the category, nections to the art run deeper. Zimmer said art has an ability There is more subtlety, there to connect with the audience is more nuance, and it doesn’t at a deeper, more emotional feel corny.” level. Nuñez said that her phoIn a social climate where to project with Zimmer and people are often closed off to Seireeni was especially mean- new ideas, art plays a crucial ingful to her because of the role in bringing people togethpersonal bond she had to its er, she said. message. “The whole point of art is “I am Chinese and Mex- to make someone feel someican and a woman, and for thing,” Zimmer said. “Instead my entire life, I will always be of beating someone over the seen this way,” Nuñez said. head with one point of view, “[In the project] there was an art is more of a meaningful added layer of what it means discussion. With activism, if to me as a Chinese woman you introduce it to others in a to live in a Eurocentric world way that allows them to bring and the difficulty of accepting in their feelings, their life, the beauty of your skin tone their common sense in a culture that values light of being, that is skin tones. So, what’s imhow progress portant to me is highlighting gets made.”
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ILLUSTRATION BY EVIE DE RUBERTIS AND SAMANTHA KO
C2 ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT
THE CHRONICLE
MAY 30, 2019
Students discuss being a dancer and how they balance their lives at school, their extracurriculars and dance. By LAUREN NEHORAI
“Being this committed has made it hard for me to excel Wake up, drive to school, in either school and dance, attend classes for eight hours, and I often feel as if I’m almost drive to dance, practice for in-between for both,” Goldthree hours, come home, do smith said. “I’ve had lots of homework for another three teachers tell me I shouldn’t go hours, go to bed, repeat. This to college and [to] start audihas been Rileigh Goldsmith’s tioning instead. Even though ’20 daily routine since the I decided that college is a better fit for now, it will definitely third grade. While Goldsmith finds close some doors in terms of comfort in the sport and sees my dance career.” Daniel Arriaza ’19 said dance as part of her identity, that the large time one practice session commitment that at her studio made is tied to the school her question everydance program has thing. been particularly “A few months difficult for him, as ago, a guest chorerehearsals consume ographer told me almost all of his free that I was almost time in the months good enough to be a leading up to each professional dancer ’ dance performance. and that if I was reRileigh “Being a student, ally serious I would Goldsmith’19 dancer and soccer drop out of school player has definiteand train,” Goldsmith said. “For the first time ly resulted in many cram sesin my life, I felt like I had to sions during rehearsals or on make a choice. Going to Har- buses to away games,” Arriaza vard-Westlake while commit- said. “I think the worst part is ting over 15 hours a week to having to deal with the time dance always left me giving commitment on the weekend half myself to both. However, because you never get a break, I just couldn’t see myself with- and it leaves you little time to out one or the other.” spend on other activities.” Goldsmith said she is often Similarly to Arriaza, Emma faced with the challenge of bal- Poveda ’20 said she has sacriancing the dedication needed ficed time spent towards her to perform at advanced dance school work in order to pursue levels with the demanding her love of dance. workload at school, especially “I almost didn’t dance this with the added pressures of year because the rehearsal junior year. schedule for the show really WHITE S
conflicted with my studying for ten years, at the end of for the SAT,” Poveda said. “But the day, I was more interestdespite this, I still decided to ed in film and did not have the sign up to continue the jour- space in my schedule to do ney I have been on with my both. I definitely miss it and dance friends from the begin- occasionally regret my choice, ning, and I would do it again.” but there are so many opporAccording to dance teacher tunities to be involved without Cynthia Winter, while many fully dedicating all my time to students have left the school it.” dance program because of the While some students are time commitment, others’ pas- truly passionate about dance, sion for dance usually over- some chose not to enroll in the comes those challenges. dance program for styllistic “When stureasons. dents come “I stuck to the Upper with it because “I stuck with it School, they dance is truhave to narrow because dance is truly ly my passion their focus of and it makes my passion and it study, as there e h a p p i makes me happier than m is a limit to er than most the number of most other things.” other things,” courses they Oscar Mon—Oscar Montañez- t a ñ e z - G a r a y can take,” Winter said. “With Garay ’20 ’20 said. “Howthat said, most ever, being a of the advanced male dancer is really tough dancers stay with the pro- and a lot of people make fun gram.” of me for doing something that Immi Shearmur ’20 decid- is stereotypically ‘for girls’. I ed to quit dance this year in don’t dance at school because order to pursue other inter- I am a hip-hop dancer and the ests. school’s dance curriculum foWhile she said she didn’t cuses more on contemporary have time to dance at school, styles.” she does dance recreationally Many students find othat studios nearby. er ways to dance outside of “I feel like every girl signs the tradiontional program at up for a dance class at some school. point in their childhood and “I don’t have time in my sticks with it depending on schedule to dance in school, how much they love it,” Shear- but I still get to dance for the mur said. “While my love for school on the cheer team,” Olthe sport pushed me to dance ivia Ketcham ’20 said.
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ILLUSTRATION BY SAMANTHA KO
May 30, 2019
hwchronicle.com/ae
A&E C3
Cultural Connections Students explore different mediums of art to reflect on, personalize and raise awareness for their cultural heritages.
By Annie Beckman and Joanna Im As the Mariachi band performed, she said she felt embarrassed walking through the crowd. However, as Anna Martinez-Yang ’20 approached the center of the room and saw those around her, she remembered the purpose of her quinceñera: to embrace her Mexican identity. “At first, I felt ashamed with an entourage of uniformed men singing and playing instruments, but as I walked down, I saw how much people enjoyed the genuine life that comes with Mexican culture that instantly uplifted the room,” Martinez-Yang said. Beyond her quinceñera and Mexican heritage, Martinez-Yang has also found a way to cherish her Korean background. As a volunteer of the Korean-American Parents Association, Martinez-Yang has learned Korean traditional dance for a Korean arts performance. Through this experience, she was able to combine her culture with art. “Korean traditional dance has helped me learn the Korean standards of beauty,” Martinez-Yang said. “We had to have straight backs at all times, and there was only one way to hold the fan. It showed me the strict side of Korean culture. However, I also got to see the product, which was a beautiful dance.” Martinez-Yang also said that she believed that the performance of Korean traditional dance helped her bond with other students over their shared culture. “A few others girls and I proceeded to meet and practice every weekend for about a month and a half,” Martinez-Yang said. “Together, we helped each oth-
er learn about proper postures and the routine. Together, I think we all were able to bond together and experience a part of the culture that we have never experienced.” Like Martinez-Yang, Anita Anand ’19 uses dance to connect with her heritage, but through a different form. Instead, she is a classical Indian dancer, learning to master the art form called Bharatanatyam. “We combine facial expressions, abhinaya and pure dance technique, nrtta, to depict stories from Hindu mythology,” said Anand. “We are accompanied by percussion, mridangam drums, strings, veena, and singing in one of the many Indian languages such as Hindi Sanskrit or Tamil.” Anand also said that beyond Bharatanatyam, dance in general is a very effective way for anyone and everyone to express their background. Often times, she said, cultural dance forms are centered around heritage, religion, or cultural traditions. “Bharatanatyam dance depicts stories from ancient religious texts or shows the daily life of a rural woman in India,” Anand said. “Because of this, dance class is the place where I feel most connected to my heritage. I have learned religious texts, Indian traditions, manners and culture, and I have made many friends of similar races and heritage, and who practice the same traditions as I do.” Henry Greenman ’20 similarly uses performance art to learn about and express his cultural roots as an African American trombone player. “I think jazz music is a great way to get back to my cultural roots because it serves as a tool of protest,” Greenman said. “It is very similar to the role of music in the Harlem Renaissance
of the early 1900’s. Playing the trombone has helped to navigate my identity.” Additionally, students also use painting and drawing as a way to connect with their heritage or raise awareness for their own social contexts. Remi Patton ’20 uses variations of classical works, which often are produced from historically white cultures to speak out about her race and culture. “My art definitely connects to my heritage,” Patton said. “The method I use to incorporate my culture into my art is using romantic [and] renaissance painting techniques and incorporating brown and black figures in to such compositions in order to represent people who look like me who weren’t previously represented in those types of paintings.” Patton said that she uses classical methods of painting to connect with her heritage because it is well-known and thus variations of such art can have a larger social impact. “I think it’s the influence and well known reputation these pieces of art have,” Patton said. “That pre-established respect that comes with those paintings allows for the altered version to carry that same sense of respect while also representing people of color and more diverse cultures than they did originally.” Visual Arts teacher Claire Cochran ’06 said that she believes the school’s art programs encourage students to reflect on their identity and culture. “I think Harvard-Westlake has made a concerted effort to encourage students to to connect with their heritage,” Cochran said. “Art is an incredibly effective medium to explore one’s culture.” Cochran also said that art is inherently an effective medium for expressing one’s cultural
history and identity because it requires interpretation. “Visual language provides fertile ground to reference historical as well as contemporary elements of one’s cultural heritage,” Cochran said. “There is also an inherent coding in art – it must be deciphered, and that layer of ambiguity allows this really interesting tension between the specificity of the artist’s intention and the myriad ways a viewer will interpret the work. It’s an ideal medium through which to spark dialogue between artist and viewer.” Student painter and makeup artist Oscar Montañez-Garay ’20 said that he brings awareness to American stereotypes towards Mexican culture in his paintings. “My work highlights the implicit biases and stereotypes surrounding Mexicans in America,” Montañez-Garay said. “In one of my paintings, ‘Lazy Day on El Rancho’ the use of red evokes an emotional charge disrupting the scene and catching the viewer’s eye. The men in the foreground are sitting down next to scattered beer cans which plays into the stereotype of Mexican men being lazy, dominant and alcoholics.” Montañez-Garay said he wishes to connect with and represent his culture in predominantly white institutions through his satirical paintings. “As a Mexican who attends school with mostly white students, in the Hispanic majority city of Los Angeles, my culture is underrepresented,” Montañez-Garay said. “Therefore, my peers’ perceptions of Mexicans are misguided by the media and their limited authentic experiences with people of Mexican descent. In response, I’ve made paintings as an examination, critique, satirization, and a call to action.”
ILLUSTRATION BY LILY XIE
C4 Arts And Entertainment
The Chronicle
May 30, 2019
Music to Amai ears Student releases debut single
By Joanna Im Willa Fogelson ’22, under the stage name, Willa Amai, performed her new song ‘Trampled Flowers’ on “The Ellen DeGeneres Show” on May 9 and “The Today Show” on May 14. Fogelson released the song, her first debut single, in early March of this year. “I wrote all of [‘Trampled Flowers’] – lyrics, melody, everything,” Fogelson said. “It’s my baby, all my songs are. I always write everything. I am so incredibly grateful and blessed to have these opportunities.I just hope I can breathe it all in and never take a second of it for granted.” Her music career started at an early age with the piano, and she began to write music after studying poetry, Fogelson said. “I started playing the piano when I was four years old, but I’ve been singing ever since I could make any noise,” Fogelson said. “I have always loved music. But then, in third grade, my teacher got me interested in poetry. So I decided I would combine my two favorite things and ended up writing my first song.”
PRINTED WITH PERMISSION OF WILLA FOGELSON
HITTING THE NOTE: Willa Fogelson ’21 performs an original song on “The Artist’s Lounge.” Fogelson was featured on talk shows “The Ellen Show” and “The Today Show.” Recently, she has released a music video for her debut single, “Trampled Flowers,” featuring her grandmother. Fogelson said that while she does not have short-term plans, she has some larger goals for her future in the music industry. “I do not have any set plans, really, besides making music,” Fogelson said. “I have a few bucket-list type hopes for my career like co-writing with Brandi Carlisle or writing the score for a movie, but I am thinking those will come with time.” Due to music-related ab-
sences, Fogelson said that she has to put extra work into maintaining her academic performance at school. “I have to miss school from time to time, and it makes things a little difficult but it always seems to work out,” Fogelson said. “If you love something the way I love what I do, you make time for it. I know that I’m the one responsible for getting all of it done, so I make it happen.” Middle School History De-
partment head and history teacher Paul Chenier, who teaches Fogelson’s history class, said that he does not have trouble adjusting to Fogelson’s conflicts between her music career and academic life. “[Fogelson] is exceptional and has required no significant accommodations whatsoever,” Chenier said. “She hasn’t missed a beat in History this year. She’s an extraordinarily driven scholar who hasn’t
asked for significant accommodation and, frankly, hasn’t shown a sign of needing it.” Fogelson said that her goal as a musician is to produce music that she and others can enjoy. “I’ve never tried to be anything other than a good musician and I will continue to make songs that I’m proud of and hope that other people love them as much as I do,” Fogelson said.
Choir singers perform in Spring Concert post-trip By Celine Park
EMMA SHAPIRO/CHRONICLE
Show Biz: (Right to left) Quinn Callahan ’21, Anna Katz ’20, Sophie Roussak ’21 performs a comedic play written by William Newhart ’19 and Rachel Grode ’19 about producing a high school play in North Dakota.
Students perform at Playwrights Festival By Ethan Lachman and Lauren Cho
Students performed plays produced by their classmates at the Playwrights Festival from May 23-25. Students began preparing in September by attending workshops in which they worked with professional actors and dramaturgs to polish their plays. Directors chose the cast in March and then conducted rehearsals beginning in April. This year’s Festival was supported by the Perry S. Goldman ’78 Memorial Fund, established by classmates and family of Goldman. Velina Hasu Houston, director of Master of Fine Arts program in dramatic writing and head of undergraduate playwriting at the University of Southern
California, was the Guest Artist Playwright and Instructor. A board of 10 students and alums chose 18 plays that would be produced and performed at the Festival. Out of the plays performed, The Leon C. Fan Memorial Award was given to Leg Day by Charlie Kogen ’19, to commemorate student creativity in dramatic arts. Graham Berger-Sacks ’20 said he chose to participate in the festival for a new experience, and was extremely proud of the result. “In all honesty, I decided to do Playwrights on a whim, but it turned out to be a fantastic decision,” Berger-Sacks said. Berger-Sacks said that due to his time at the Playwrights Festival, he wants to continue his acting career next year.
“As someone who hasn’t done any stage acting since third grade, I wasn’t sure if I would be very comfortable on stage, but with the help of my co-star Greta Zumbrunnen ’21 and my amazing director [Benefits and Human Resources Administrator Yutopia Essex], I have felt right at home,” Berger-Sacks said. Similar to Berger-Sacks, Lucca Dohr ’20 said the cast fostered a caring environment, which made the experience enjoyable. “It was a pleasure to be a part of such an amazing group of people,” Dohr said. “Everybody in Playwrights was so supportive and charismatic. I loved performing and seeing the reaction the plays got out of the audience. [It was] just a great experience overall.”
vitz ’20 said. “[Jazz Singers] were emoSingers showcased music tionally invested in the song pieces that they performed ‘My Spirit is Uncaged,’” Konon their trip to Italy in their vitz said. “It’s typically pretty difficult to get a choir to have spring concert May 3. The concert included the fun and interact with each ensembles of Chamber Sing- other during a piece, but evers, Bel Canto, Wolverine Cho- eryone was really connected this time.” rus and Jazz Singers. Wolverine Chorus member The choir’s recent Italy trip was an unforgettable ex- Ben Kim ’21 said his favorite piece to sing was “Mourning perience and Dove.” prepared the “‘[Mournchoirs for their ing Dove]’ had [Dr. Robles] knows concert, accorda nice, deep how to keep us all ing to Chamber resonating Singers member focused and attentive sound that Alon Moradi ’21 so that we can perform no other song said. we sang had, “I thought our best. since it was [the trip] was a —Alex Chon ’21 an all men’s really fantaschoir,” Kim tic way for the said. choir to bond Wolverine as a whole,” Moradi said. “We Chorus member Alex Chon ’21 got to sing in the most histori- thanked choir teacher Zanaida cally significant places in all of Robles for her guidance. choral music, that allowed for “[Robles] knows how to us to experience some of the keep us all focused and attenbest sound we’ve produced as tive so that we can perform our a group.” best. It was a very enlightenThe first act of the show- ing experience,” Chon said. “I case contained pieces of op- learned how to be flexible and era, Italian folk, classical mu- do things on the spot.” sic and some songs from the The choir show was great Great American Songbook. to end the year off, Chamber Jazz Singers performed in the Singers member Nancy Zhang second half of the concert and ’21 said. sang a repetoir of mostly gos“It was such an amazing pel music. learning experience, and I The concert was the raw can’t wait to apply my expeemotion of the singers them- riences in choir next year,” selves, Jazz singer Kate Kon- Zhang said.
“
SPORTS The Chronicle • May 30, 2019
Baseball
KEILA MCCABE/CHRONICLE
LOCKED IN: Center fielder and Vanderbilt University baseball commit Pete Crow-Armstrong ’20 prepares to hit during the first inning of the 2-0 Division I CIF Championship loss at Dodger Stadium on May 18. Crow-Armstrong finished 0-3, flying out to Cypress High School’s center fielder for the first out in the bottom of the sixth inning.
Season ends with loss in CIF-DI Championship at Dodger Stadium By KEILA MCCABE
Baseball’s season came to an end at Dodger Stadium in a 2-0 loss in the CIF Southern Section Division I championship against Cypress High School. The team finished its season ranked third in the nation, according to MaxPreps, with an overall record of 276-1 and league record of 143-1. Pitcher JP Wong ’20 said this year’s team had special chemistry that helped it play better. “Our whole team is a re-
ally good group of guys that always support one another,” Wong said. “We played every game as hard as we could and had a lot of success because of our ability to pick each other up.” The loss wrapped up a CIF playoffs run full of upsets and comeback wins over top teams. In the quarterfinals, the squad took down the Orange Lutheran High School Lancers, ranked first in the nation according to MaxPreps, with a walk off single down the third base line by
third baseman and University of Washington commit Michael Snyder ’19. Earlier in the season, the Wolverines lost to the Lancers 6-2 in the championship of the National High School Invitational in North Carolina. Pitcher and Princeton University commit Jack Limongelli ’19 said the redemption win over Orange Lutheran was his favorite moment of the season. “It was a really great moment because we had lost to them in North Carolina,” Limongelli said. “We were able
“
Our whole team is a really good group of guys that always support one another. We played every game as hard as we could and had a lot of success because of our ability to pick each other up.” — J.P. Wong ’20 WHITE’S
to get on the right side of the scoreboard this time, and they’re a very talented team. It was a very satisfying win.” Following the Orange Lutheran upset, the team defeated the Huntington Beach High School Oilers 6-2 in the semifinals. Shortstop Drew Bowser ’20 went 4-4 at the plate with three RBIs. First baseman Tyler Ganus ’20 said beating the
Oilers was another great win in an unbelievable season. “It felt unreal after the game,” Ganus said. “I couldn’t believe that we were actually going to be playing in Dodger Stadium.” At Dodger Stadium, pitcher and Vanderbilt University commit Sam Hliboki ’19 • Continued on D3
Track & Field
Record-breaking season comes to a close after both teams win league
By KYLE REIMS
At the CIF State meet this weekend, Harvard-Westlake Track and Field sent six different athletes participating across four different events. This caps a historic season that saw the both boys’ and girls’ teams winning Mission League, in addition to the boys taking their second consecutive CIF championship. At the CIF finals, the 4X100 relay team of Brayden Borquez ’19, Chase Harleston ’21, Joshua Johnson ’19 and Jack Riley ’19 captured the school record as well as the current number four state time en route to CIF Gold. At the CIF masters, where her individual qualification for state was on the line, Daniela Quintero ’22 ran her lifetime
best. After what she considered a subpar performance at the CIF finals that put her chances of running in doubt, Quintero said she went into masters looking for redemption. “The qualifier to CIF masters, the CIF finals, didn’t quite go the way I hoped, and ultimately I was an alternate in both the 1600 and 800 going into masters,” Quintero said. “Although I wasn’t guaranteed to run at masters, I knew that if I were to run, I had to redeem myself. I didn’t want that one race to reflect how the end of my season went. At the end of the day, it was relieving to redeem myself from the week before and I was happy a personal record came along with it.” Thinking back on how far
she’s come on the night before the finals, Quintero said while she has had confidence in her abilities, she is still a little surprised based on where she was a week prior. “It’s actually pretty crazy to think that I started as an alternate last weekend and now I’m running at the state finals,” Quintero said. “I would say it was definitely unexpected for me to run last weekend but not uwnexpected to make it to the finals. I felt confident that I could qualify today based off of my times so far.” All four of the heats that Harvard-Westlake students competed in at state lead to qualifications for the finals. One of the state competitors, Tierni Kaufman ’19, the CIF • Continued on D7
RYAN ALBERT/CHRONICLE
SUPER SPEED: Runner Muthee Githara ’20 bursts off the blocks in the 4x100m relay against St. Francis High School on March 5.
D2 Sports
The Chronicle
May 30, 2019
Boys’ Tennis
Season ends with quarter-finals loss By Luke Casola and Lucas Lee
After losing to University High School in the CIF Finals on May 10 and Torrey Pines High School in the State Regional Finals on May 18, the boys’ tennis team looks to finish the season strong at CIF Individuals. Despite reaching the finals in both CIF and State Regional playoffs, several players on the team said they were disappointed with the outcome. “We didn’t meet the lofty expectations we had set at the beginning of the year,” doubles player Amaan Irfan ’21 said. “We had expected to continue our consecutive CIF wins but could not get it done against a hungry and experienced [University] team. We also had a great chance at Regionals but were missing four starters and lost 3-4. I feel [that] if we had even one of those starters, the day could have ended up in a win.” The squad started the season winning the AllAmerican Tournament March 24, beating the same Torrey Pines team 5-4 that the Wolverines lost to later in the season at the State Regional Finals. “It’s always a momen-
tum builder to start off the year winning a competitive tournament,” singles and doubles player Timo Li ’20 said. “It set the stage for league and motivated us to win it again. We also got the chance to compete against some solid competition. As we know, [Torrey Pines] is a very good [team], and they got the best of us the second time.” The team finished 12-0 overall in league, defeating Chaminade High School 16-2 in the last league game March 14. Li and singles player Mike Thomas ’20 said that they are not sure how many times the team has won league because the program stopped keeping track after winning it for the last decade. After leading the team to back-to-back CIF titles in the 2017 and 2018 seasons, former program head Cris Simpson stepped down and assistant coach Bo Hardt was named the new program head. During Simpson’s 18 year tenure, the squad won four CIF titles, two State Regional finals and 18 consecutive Mission League titles. Despite the consistent success under Simpson, several players said they were excited to start prac-
Lacrosse
LUCAS LEE/CHRONICLE
PARTNERS IN CRIME: Amaan Irfan ’21 serves the ball in a doubles set with his partner Avi Carson ’22 in the 15-3 win against St. Francis on Feb. 27. This match set their record at 2-1.
tices with Hardt as the new head coach. “[Hardt] has been someone that has always been around for us,” Thomas said. “We are very comfortable with him because he’s been an assistant coach in past years. I feel he is always in our corner and always supporting during matches and practice.” After beating Fountain Valley High School and
Ventura High School in CIF Individuals on May 22, the doubles team of David Arkow ’20 and Sam Landau ’22 advanced to the semifinals. Arkow and Landau ended up losing to Palos Verdes High School in the CIF-SS Individuals Finals on Thursday. Looking forward to next season, Irfan said that the team will have higher expectations after a some-
what disappointing season. The high expectations are mainly due to the six rising seniors that will lead the team, Irfan said. “Next year, our goal should be to grab the AllAmerican, Regionals and CIF championships,” Irfan said. “These are our three major tournaments of the year, and next year could be the first time we capture all three.”
Team does not meet its players’ expectations, loses in CIF Finals
By Jaidev Pant
KEILA MCCABE/CHRONICLE
SULTAN(D) PEPPER: Midfielder Sultan Daniels ’19 runs down the field in a 14-10 win against Agoura High School on May 2.
After losing by one goal in the Mission League finals, the boys lacrosse team finished the season with an overall record of 126, ultimately losing in the semifinals of playoffs May 4. After defeating Oak Park High School 15-6 in its final regular season game, the team kicked off the playoffs at home against Newbury Park High School, on April 30. It entered the game seeded fourth in the Los Angeles Championship Playoffs, while Newbury Park entered the playoffs seeded 13th. The team outscored Newbury Park by 10 goals in the second and third quarter, eventually winning the game by a score of 16-4. Players said the win helped improve their mentality heading into the rest of the playoffs. “Beating Newbury Park in the first game was a great feeling, especially after starting off rocky in the first part of the game, and we gained a healthy and competitive mindset going into the rest of the playoffs,” midfielder Ian Han ’21 said. The squad then hosted Agoura High School at home May 2, winning by a score of 14-10.
Defender Nik Grube second team. ’21 attributed the win to “Winning first team all pregame preparation. Mission League was very “The keys for the Agoura unexpected, but something game were to really focus on I hoped for, so I was elated ourselves and executing the when I found out that I won,” whole game, which started Han, who was chosen as a with having a great warm up first-team midfielder, said. and our attitudes going into The squad will head the game,” Grube said. into next season without With this win, the important seniors, such as team advanced to the attacker Asher Early ’19, semifinals of the Los Angeles defender Donovan Econn Championship Playoffs, ’19 and midfielder Harrison where it faced Listen ’19, all of Palos Verdes High whom made the all School, the No. 1 Mission League First seed in the playoffs Team. In total, the on May 4. Players team had 10 seniors said the game was on the roster. a defensive battle “[Our current and in the first three situation] is a quarters. The squad similar situation as headed into the last year when we W ’ fourth quarter tied also graduated a lot Brody with Palos Verdes. of seniors, so again Listen ’21 However, Palos we’re gonna have to Verdes pulled away, scoring rely on some younger guys six goals in the fourth to step up,” Grube said. quarter and winning by a Midfielder Brody Listen score of 9-3. ’21 said the team has a lot of “It was not the outcome work to do in the off-season. we wanted,” midfielder “Our goal heading into Gideon Hyman ’20 said. next season is to be as “But, everyone fought really prepared as possible for the hard and I was very proud of road ahead,” Listen said. our season.” “It is important that we In addition, the team outwork our opponents and had five players on the all do what is necessary in the Mission League First Team off-season to feed our future and three players on the success.” hite s
May 30, 2019
hwchronicle.com/sports
Sports D3
inbrief
Baseball
Alumni win Ivy League Playoffs
Former Wolverines and current baseball players at Harvard University, catcher Matt Thomas ’17, outfielder Jake Suddleson ’16 and infielder Chase Aldridge ’15, defeated Columbia University May 19 8-6 to win the Ivy League Championship. After winning the Ivy League Playoff Series for the first time since 2005, Thomas, Suddleson and Aldridge will advance to the Regional round of the NCAA Tournament. Currently, Aldridge is one of the Crimson Tide’s team captains and led his team to 27-14 overall record. -Luke Casola KEILA MCCABE/CHRONICLE
STRIKE ZONE: Pitcher and Vanderbilt University baseball commit Sam Hilboki ’19 delivers a strike against Cypress High School in the CIF Division I Championship on May 18 with a man on first base. Despite their best efforts, the squad suffered a 2-0 loss.
Team reaches CIF title after losing league •Continued from D1
started on the mound, threw for 5 innings and gave up eight hits. Several key defensive plays helped lead the Centurions to score two runs. Catcher Jacob Galloway ’22 threw out two batters on the base paths. Right fielder Sam Biller ’20 threw a runner out at home, allowing the Centurions to lead by only one run heading into the fifth inning. Pitcher and Yale University commit Bryant Reese ’19 came in as relief and finished the rest of the game, giving up no hits. Despite a strong defense, the Wolverines were unable to get the bats going at the plate.
The team gained a bit of offenLimongelli said the game sive momentum in the bottom was disappointing but despite of third with a lead off base hit the loss, the season was very from left fielder George successful.. Cooper ’21 and base “Nothing was hit by second basemissing from Dodger man Tyler Cox ’19 with Stadium,” Limongelli two outs. But, the mosaid. “Both teams mentum died when are very well coached Cooper was called and have a lot of talout at the plate tryent and baseball is a ing to score off the hit game where anything by Cox. Cooper said can happen. One ’ he gives credit to the game doesn’t define George Centurions for their our team or our seaCooper ’19 performance. son, and I’m incred“We lost because ibly proud of all my we simply got outplayed,” Coo- teammates for all of their acper said. “Their guys did a complishments this season.” tremendous job, and we didn’t Regardless of the bitter end, come through.” the team had many successes white s
throughout the season. The Wolverines kicked off the year by winning the Easton Tournament, then placed second in the Mission League and NHSI Tournament and finally returned to the CIF Southern Section Division I championship for the first time since 2013. Ganus said the team’s close personal relationships translated to success on the diamond. “We have all known each other for a while and really became a close knit team this year,” Ganus said. “We always had each other’s back if someone made an error and trusted each other like family. I will never forget this amazing group of guys. Super fun year.”
Softball
Former NFL Quarterback Donovan McNabb came to campus to give advice to the Harvard Westlake football team. McNabb was a NFL Quarterback for 13 years and played college football at Syracuse. McNabb threw for 37,276 yards and 234 touchdowns in his career, spending 11 seasons with the Eagles. McNabb came to break down his five keys to success: Passion, Determination, Drive, Love and Production. Mcnabb came to the school through Boys Golf Head Coach Scott Wood.
-Zack Schwartz
Joshua Johnson will run track at Cal-Poly Track and field standout Joshua Johnson ’19 signed to California State Polytechnic University, Pomona on May 23. Individually, Johnson set a new personal record of 10.77 seconds in the 100m at Mission League Finals. He has four years of varsity experience, running in the 4X100m and 100m. On Saturday, Johnson raced in the 4 x 100m at CIF State Finals with Brayden Borquez ’19, James Chung ’19 and Chase Harleston ’21. This season, the team broke the previous school record that Johnson helped set with 41.35 seconds.
Squad still dominates league play By Charlie Wang
The girls’ varsity softball team’s up and down season came to an end with a 5-2 loss against Segerstrom High School in Division 4 of CIF wild card play. The Wolverines finished the season with an overall record of six wins and nine losses, and 4-5 record in league play. After starting the season 2-6, while being outscored 66-7, the Wolverines came together during the middle of the season and finished the regular season by winning four out of the team’s final six games. The second-half run included three consecutive league wins, including wins over rivals Bishop Alemany High School and Notre Dame High School. The team felt that its growth was crucial in it making the playoffs. “As a team, we improved a lot this season,” infielder Emily Nutting ’20 said.”We didn’t start super strong but ended up finding our footing about halfway through the season to go on to win some important games. We ended up making it to playoffs
Donovan McNabb visits football team
-Lucas Lee
JAY LASSITER/CHRONICLE
TIE GOES TO THE RUNNER: Left fielder Alexandra Sassa ’19 sprints to first base after hitting a ground ball to the third baseman in the 7-0 loss to Bishop Alemany High Schoool on March 12. due to our wins later in the season, which was exciting.” The team’s loss to Segerstrom also marked the last time the team’s six seniors, Kat Swander ’19, AllieSassa ’19, Lauren Witmer ’19, Yujung Park ’19, Allison Salvador ’19 and Cypress Toomey ’19 will play for the Wolverines. All six were key contributors to the team’s mid-season run and program head Brittany Moeai believes they all have bright futures ahead of them. “They are not a normal girls
high school softball team, and I love that,” said Moeai. “They work so hard and would do it with and without recognition, not skipping a beat. Knowing that they are going to make a difference in the bigger scheme of their lives is probably my favorite part. I know they’re going to kill it in life beyond their softball career.” Their teammates said they will also miss the positivity that the seniors provided the team. “We had a really great group of seniors this year,” Nut-
ting said. “All six of them really brought a lot to the team. I’ll really miss all of their positive attitudes and the cohesion that they brought to the team.” The team will get to rest over the summer before preparing for the upcoming season in the fall. “We’re going to start our offseason practice and strength training in the fall,” Nutting said. “We also hope to do some team bonding events before the season starts to strengthen our team chemistry.”
Broadcast team goes to Dodger Stadium Mason Hooks ’20 and Dylan Shenson ’20 broadcasted the CIF Southern Section Division I Baseball Championship on Saturday, live at the Dodger Stadium in the Vin Scully Press Box at 7pm. Harvard Westlake Baseball lost the game 2-0. Faculty Advisor and head of HW Broadcasting, Max Tash helped to produce and direct the radio show. The game was available on the HW home radio feed through the Harvard Westlake Athletics App. -Lee Nichols
THE CHRONICLE MAY 3
D4 SPORTS
Great Athletes, No Cap
As the school year comes to a close, we reflect on the achievements of the graduating seniors. Here are some interesting statistics about our athletes. Farewell, Wolverines!
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SPORTS D5
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PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY RYAN ALBERT, JAY LASSITER AND KEILA MCCABE
MAY 30, 2019
HWCHRONICLE.COM/SPORTS
SPORTS D6
Swim & Dive
Both squads garner early season wins By Eugean CHOI
The boys’ swimming team finished a strong season this spring, placing second in Mission League and third in the CIF State Finals. “I thought the season went very well,” swimmer Nicholas Zhang ’19 said. “We placed third at CIF, which is the highest in Harvard-Westlake history, and we had most of our team qualify for state in relays or individual events.” On the other hand, the girls’ swimming team was able to take first in the Mission League but failed to place at CIF State Finals. “I wasn’t at all upset about not placing in CIF State Final because I was more thrilled about the experience of going and watching some really amazing swimmers race,” swimmer Colleen Baskin ’19 said. “I was just happy to be there. I thought the season went very well.” The girls’ team will lose two seniors and the boys’ team will lose four seniors. However, the swim team will gain a new set of freshmen next year.
JAY LASSITER/CHRONICLE
SPLISH SPLASH: Swimmer Melody Tang ’22 dives into the pool during the 102-68 league win against Alemany High School on March 12. After the meet, the girls’ team improved to 4-0 overall, defeating Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy High School 108-59 March 19. “It’s really hard to the seniors leave,” Khoo said. “For me personally, I’ve known [Brown University swimming commit] Jameson McMullen ’19 since the fourth grade and Nicholas Zhang ’19 and Luke Rowen ’19 since my freshman year. Since then, I’ve grown so close with them, and they’ve played a pivotal role in my
development as and athlete, student and friend. I am so excited to see where their paths in college take them, but I do know that no matter what adversity they may face, this group of seniors will face their challenges in life with grit and live up to their full potentials.” There was a sense of belonging and companionship
Boys’ Golf
Season under new head coach ends after team fails to advance in CIF By WILLIAM SEYMOUR
The boys’ golf team sent three players to the Mission League Individuals tournament and qualified for the CIF Team Divisional tournament, despite not advancing past the first round in either one. The squad finished with an overall record of 6-4 under new head coach Scott Wood. Some members of the team said that switching head coaches was a small distraction that contributed to their average season. “It’s been a chaotic year with the new coach,” Dean Barkin ’20 said. “It’s also been ADVERTISEMENT
stressful for me personally playing in my junior year.” This year, Wood said he hoped to change the culture of the team. He provided the team with memberships to Urban Golf Performance, a golf-specific training facility for weight lifting. Team members reflected on this new addition to the program. “I’m glad that our coach has gotten us Urban Golf because I do think that working out golf-specific parts of our body is definitely helpful,” Lyon Chung ’21 said.The team is losing two seniors to
graduation, Alex Hong ’19 and Anthony Khaiat ’19. While looking for ways to improve for next year, members of the team said that more time together next year will help. “We’ve only had a couple of practices this year, so I think next year, having a weekly practice or more times for the team to bond would be helpful,” Barkin said. “The only time that we’re really together is during matches, so more fun times with the team in less stressful environments would be nice.” Barkin also said that each
when he was around his teammates, Zhang said. “I thought the team environment was especially great this year,” Zhang said. “All the members really had a strong bond, and that helped us reach our high level of competition.” Swimmers said that they are optimistic for the future
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and hope for a good season next year. “I’m keeping in shape during summer by swimming every now and then, so that I do not have to start entirely from scratch in swimming next year,” Santiago Salazar ’21 said. “I want to make sure that we have a great season next year as well.”
We are looking to stay dialed in during the off-season. Everyone is making sure to practice and play in tournaments over the summer and fall so that we can all come back playing like we did at the end of the season.” — Dean Barkin ’20
individual player should make sure to heavily practice during the off-season. “We are looking to stay dialed in during the off-season,” Barkin said. “Everyone is making sure to practice and play in tournaments over the summer and fall so that we can all come back playing like we did at the end of the season.” Wood said that he is proud of how the team has come to-
WHITE’S
gether, form stronger bonds and improved this year. “I think that everyone is starting to come together as a team,” Wood said. “Every single person on our team has contributed in a match, and every single person has gotten better, one through nine. That’s really how I measure our success. We have gotten better every week. Here we are at the end of a tough season, as good as we have been.”
May 30, 2019
hwchronicle.com/sports
Sports D7
Boys’ Volleyball
Track & Field
Boys and girls travel to state •Continued from D1
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KISS MY ACE: Defensive specialist Farid Adibi ’19 prepares to serve in the 3-0 win against Chaminade High School on March 12. The team went on to beat Cathedral High School 3-1 March 14 and Van Nuys High School 2-0 in the Dos Pueblos Tournament on March 16.
Squad bonds despite defeat in CIF playoffs
By Lee Nichols
to last season, the team still faced ample adversity during Despite a loss in the decid- the season, opposite Rafa Caring fifth set of the first round bonell ’20 and Adibi said. “We had a very injury ridof the CIF Division III Playoffs, the boys’ volleyball team con- dled season,” Adibi said. “Our cluded its season with an over- team wasn’t able to reach its all record of 17-15 and a league full potential.” Looking forward to next record of 2-4. Although playing in the CIF season, several players said they are conPlayoffs this cerned about season was a losing many of good opporPlaying for your the taller setunity for the niors, such as team, defenbrothers everyday is middle blockers sive specialist something that I will Griffin York ’19, Farid Adibi ’19 genuinely miss in the Cole Welch ’19 said that he and Jacob Lapin values most future.” ’19 to graduthe memories they built with —Farid Adibi ’19 ation, but will harder to each other. Defensive Specialist work advance past the “I will first round of the definitely miss the brotherhood that we CIF Playoffs. formed this year.” Adibi said. “I “Establishing that chemisknow this answer is cliché, but try will be crucial to our sucplaying for your brothers ev- cess next season.” Carbonell eryday is something that I will said. “The team was really close genuinely miss in the future.” by the end of the season. HavAlthough the team was able ing those kind of relationships to make it farther in the CIF between players really helped Playoffs this season compared us come back from losing in
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some games.” worked on establishing an enThrough these connections, joyable environment throughthe players were able to build out the season. a support system for the team “Everyone from the freshand help each other through men to the seniors tried to the physical and mental blocks make it as fun as possible.” they faced, libero Nick Platt ’19 Platt said. “That’s really been said. Carbonell also stressed able to bring us closer together the importance of the rela- as a team and make playoffs tionship between players and for the third straight year.” coaches, which helped After the season, rebuild the team moAssistant Sports rale and work ethic beEditor and setter fore important games. Will Mallory ’20 was “We could also tell elected to the Miswhen someone was sion League First playing off their game Team, while middle or was in their head,” blocker Ben Shelby Carbonell said. “I think ‘20 was chosen as a we did a good job of member of the Mishelping eliminate a lot sion League Second ’ of that.” Team. Rafa Despite losing sevAs the team Carbonell ’20 en seniors to graduaworks to fill the void tion, several of the five current of the graduating seniors, opjuniors said that the squad’s posite Gautam Natarajan ’20 athleticism will play a large role said that it looks to be more in the team’s success. consistent in the coming sea“I think we have a lot of son, finding confidence in its good talent and athleticism go- hitting ability and passing. ing into next year,” outside hit“We are looking forward to ter Jasper Richards ’20 said. challenge for a ring next year,” Platt said that the team Natarajan said. white s
champion in girls’ high jump. When asked about what she was left to work on heading into state, she said that keeping a positive mindset is the most important thing to do in order to garner a positive outcome. “Well, a huge part of it is mental, because not only is everyone tired physically, but they’re also all tired mentally,” Kaufman said. “It’s hard to keep going for so long, so just getting in the right mindset to really bring it in during this final stretch is hard but necessary.” Kaufman spoke from CIF and State Playoff experience, as she also made it to the championship in the season prior. Ref lecting on the emotions of making it to CIF and state for the second consecutive season, Kaufman said that while she feels happy to get to this point, she is conf licted about being one of the few Harvard Westlake athletes to make it as far she has. “It feels good, Kaufman said. “I’m definitely relieved because there are just so many rounds before you get to State [Playoffs]. There’s always a bit of a transition period into the postseason because the team shrinks a lot. It’s a little sad but, after a bit, you really focus on your event and hone in on everything. We have a good group going this year too, which will be a lot of fun.” Borquez, who won the CIF champion in 300 meter hurdles, n addition he ran in the 400 meter dash at state. As his four year career at Harvard-Westlake comes to a close, Borquez said his cardinal goal lies within the record books. “I want to solidify a spot as one of the best 300 meter hurdles and 400 meter runners in California State History.”
D8 SPORTS
THE CHRONICLE
WOLVERINES ONLY
MAY 30, 2019
BY
TIERNI KAUFMAN
I
was hanging out with James [Chung '19] one day after practice, and we were just talking about track and the team, when I realized how different my life would be without high jump. I actually came upon it totally by accident. I’d never even heard of it in the first twelve-ish years of my life. Basically, when I was in sixth grade, I had the option of going to a debate tournament or a track meet. My dad wanted me to do debate, but anyone who knows me well knows I can’t debate for my life. I jumped for the very first time during a school practice about a week before, and, surprisingly, that went pretty well. My family isn’t super into athletics, but we are all blessed with being quite tall, which helps a bit for this event. It was an easy choice for me to make, and I finally convinced my dad to let me skip that debate tournament. Little did I know that the high jump would eventually become such a big part of who I am today. At my first track meet in sixth grade, I ended up tying the school record, so when I came to Harvard-Westlake the next
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year, I decided to join the team. I mostly joined for fun because I hadn’t jumped since that first track meet a year earlier. Some people find their sport when they’re young, but, for me, this niche field event I’d only recently come to realize existed ended up fitting perfectly into my life. Part of why I love the event so much is because the goal is super simple: you want to jump over the bar without knocking it over. But, there is so much more that goes into it. It only takes a few seconds, and professionals make it look super easy, but there are so many little technical things that all have to go right. Obviously, this can be frustrating, but as you practice it over and over again, those seconds start to slow down, you become more aware of all the minutiae in what you are doing. I’m very detail-oriented, so it seems natural that I would be drawn to a technique-driven event. I never expected to find high jump in the first place, and once I joined the team, I didn’t really expect to become so close to the whole track community. Even though my event isn’t a team
sport like basketball or soccer, over the years I’ve become friends with a lot of people who I wouldn’t have gotten to know at all otherwise. I’ll often say that the lowerclassmen (even some of the upperclassmen too) are like my kids, and I really do feel like their mom sometimes. At CIF State last year, Brayden [Borquez '19], Tiber [Seireeni '20] and I were getting dinner, and while we were waiting [Borqeuz] jokingly said that we could pass as siblings since we are all half-Asian. The funny thing is that even though we are very different people, they kind of are my brothers. Track is our common ground, and the team really has become my extended family. As my high school track career comes to an end, it’s weird when I look back and realize that going to that track meet in sixth grade so dramatically shaped my future. It sounds like an exaggeration, but in all seriousness, track was probably one of the best decisions I’ve made in my whole life.