December 2023 Issue

Harvard-Westlake • Studio City • Volume 33 • Issue 4 • December 13, 2023 • hwchronicle.com

Remodeled library set to open

Club hosts Israeli survivor

Mudd Library will open to students for the first time since construction started over the summer Dec. 15. The library was initially set to be opened after Thanksgiving break but was pushed back due to construction delays. Faculty and staff will have the chance to tour the new space Thursday, and it will formally open to students Friday at lunch.

President Rick Commons said the library experienced a large transformation in terms of design and layout.

“The redesigned library is striking at every turn, both in terms of its form and functionality,” Commons said. “There are wonderful meeting rooms for students who want to study together, carrels for students who want to study alone and silent study carrels, which are elegant and really quiet. The Learning Center has got all different kinds of seating and ways for people to be comfortable. It’s the most exciting transformation of a space that I’ve seen in a long time.”

Head of Upper School Beth Slattery said the new library will allow students to be more productive while they work because of the various study areas.

“The idea was to have [the library] be a more useful space,” Slattery said. “[There are] study rooms that people can reserve if they want to work together and in groups, and silent study is much more pleasant. It goes from being louder and more social on one end, and then gradually gets quieter as you go through. It’ll just be a more comfortable place for people to do different kinds of work and actually get work done.”

Ava Hakakha ’25 said she managed to locate alternate places to work while the library was under renovation.

“Being on campus without access to a library wasn’t too difficult,” Hakakha said. “I was able to find areas like the quad and the lounge to get my work done.”

having brought to the Board of “[Munger] was smart enough Trustees a trio of his financial, to know that coming across [as business and social philosophies. the smartest person in the room] “What [Munger’s] Trustee col- wouldn’t do him any favors,” leagues will also remember are his Hudnut said. “The bottom line astonishingly nimble mind, his with [Munger], as with most encyclopedic erudition and his highly successful people, was that flair for unpretentious aphorisms he had impeccable judgment. revealing essential principles for He understood [which] people business and for to hire, he unlife,” Commons derstood what said. “[Munger] stocks to buy and He knew how to he knew how to never missed a Harvard-Westmake intelligent decisions make intelligent lake board about what to do and decisions about meeting, and what to do and was rarely wrong.” even at 99, he was rarely wrong.” somehow saw Throughout his — Thomas C. Hudnut the future more lifetime, Munger Former Head of School donated a total of clearly, understood key issues $74 million to the more quickly school, helping and expressed complex ideas with finance the Upper School’s scimore wit and simplicity than any- ence center, the Middle School’s one we have known or are likely to library, affordable and accessible encounter again.” housing for faculty and staff and Former President Thomas C. the school’s purchase and develHudnut, who was personally select- opment of the River Park campus. ed by Munger to serve as president Hudnut said in addition to of Harvard School, said Munger ap- Munger’s successful career and deproached his position on the board votion to the school, he was an enwith humility and sagacity. joyable person to spend time with.

Ella Shani, a 14-year-old Jewish survivor of the Oct. 7 attacks in Israel, spoke to students and faculty in Rugby Auditorium on Nov. 29 at an event organized by the Jewish Club.

The invasion of Kibbutz Be’eri — one of the small communities Shani is from — and several others along the Gazan border Oct. 7, was part of Islamic fundamentalist group Hamas’ terrorist attacks, which left over 1,200 Israelis killed and 240 taken hostage, 136 of which are currently being held in Gaza.

The massacre in Be’eri alone killed over 100 of its 1,200 residents, according to a briefing by the Israeli Foreign Ministry. In response, Israel declared war on Hamas days later, now resulting in the Palestinian death toll rising to over 17,000, according to Palestinian health authorities in Gaza. After a week-long ceasefire negotiated between Israel and Hamas was broken Dec. 1, the Israeli offensive has resumed, with a series of bombardments across Gaza and urban fighting on the ground in Khan Younis, a southern city in the enclave where Hamas is believed to be centralized.

Shani is a relative of Middle School Mathematics Teacher Mayan Benami and previously spoke at the Middle School in an all-school assembly Nov. 27.

During Shani’s presentation at the Upper School, she first recounted the arrival of Hamas militants in Kibbutz Be’eri. On Oct. 6, the day before the attacks, Shani invited 12 of her friends to her house for a Friday night dinner in celebration of Shabbat, the Jewish day of rest and prayer. The next morning, Shani awoke to the sound of rocket sirens, and rushed with her mother and 8-year-old brother Eyal to the safe room in their house. Looking at notifications from Red Alert, Israel’s security notification system, Shani initially believed the sirens were the result of the routine firing of rockets from the Gaza Strip.

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Passionate Performers: Jazz perfomers and instructors reflect on their winter concert performance, and what’s to come.

Soccer Star Signing: Gisele Thompson ’24 was signed by Angel City Football Club to play with her sister Alyssa Thompson ’23.

By Everett Lakey and Hannah Shahidi

By Connor Tang

HARVARD-WESTLAKE ARCHIVES

REMEMBERING: Charles (Charlie) Munger poses for a photo in 1995. Munger sat on the Board of Trustees for 54 years, sent five kids to the school and oversaw many institutional changs, showing unwavering dedication to the school.

Charlie Munger passes away after 54 years on the Board of Trustees

By Davis Marks and Nathan Wang

Trustee Charles (Charlie) Munger died on Nov. 28 at 99 years old after serving on the Board of Trustees for 54 years. The father of five graduates, Munger joined the Harvard School Board of Trustees in 1969 and witnessed the 1989 merger of Harvard School for Boys and Westlake School for Girls, campus renovations, land acquisitions and numerous financial and institutional decisions.

Munger was born in 1924 in Omaha, Nebraska. After serving in the military, Munger attended Harvard Law School and practiced law for 17 years. In the 1960s, Munger ended his law practice to pursue investment management. After meeting Warren Buffett, he became vice chairman of Berkshire Hathaway, the largest investment holding company in the world, according to Business Insider.

In an email sent to the school community, President Rick Commons said Munger had an unprecedented devotion to the school,

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IN THIS ISSUE

A4

A11

Winning Works of Art: Seven students were selected as YoungArts 2024 winners.

Claire Wu’s ’24 winning photograph is depicted.

Difficult Discussions: With the Presidential Election on the horizon, William Liu ’25 analyzes the school’s political environment.

B1-2 Dazed and Confused: Community members reflect on the culture and foundations of drug use at the school.

A2 News

The Chronicle

Dec. 13, 2023

Three alumni listed in Forbes’ 30 Under 30

By Nathan Wang

CONNOR TANG/CHRONICLE

A SURVIVOR OF TERROR: Ella Shani presents to students and faculty Nov. 29. She recounted the day of Oct. 7. when Hamas militants invaded her kibbutz, killing over 100 residents and taking several hostage back to Gaza.

14-year-old Israeli recounts escape from Hamas’ Oct. 7 terror attacks • Continued from A1

However, as she hid in her safe room and tried to communicate with other community members via WhatsApp, she learned that Hamas militants were shooting people on the streets and going door-to-door killing residents.

Throughout the early stages of the attack, Shani said she read disturbing texts from her 16-year-old cousin Amit, who lived separately from her but in the same kibbutz.

“I got messages from my cousin,” Shani said. “[He] said, ‘Someone send the [Israeli Defense Forces (IDF)] to my house quickly. They already broke in [and] they’re shooting at the house. It’s just me, my mother and two sisters. Please, someone send the IDF.’” Shani learned later that afternoon that both her grandparents were shot by militants and were alive but in critical condition. After being located by an IDF unit, Shani and her family were eventually told to run over a mile down a road leading out of the kibbutz, accompanied by another special unit. As she ran through the street, Shani said she remembered seeing the destruction around her.

“We saw all the houses on fire,” Shani said. “There were exploded cars on the side of the road. There were trails and pools of blood everywhere. It’s a huge kibbutz, and

it just shocked me to look in any direction and just see more blood.”

They ran until they reached an IDF bus which brought them north to Tel Aviv. Once there, Shani found out that Amit was captured by Hamas and taken back to Gaza, the only hostage taken from his family of four.

Before Nov. 29, he was held by Hamas for over 50 days, and only a couple hours after Shani spoke to the school, he was released in a deal with nine other hostages.

Five days after the attacks, Shani learned from her mother that her father, Itzhik Kozin, had been murdered by Hamas militants. Despite her complex relationship with her father, Shani said that his death impacted her deeply.

“I never called him dad,” Shani said. “A parent is so proud of being a parent, and he deserved more than hearing me call him by his name.

Only five hours before the attack, I was [telling] a friend, ‘I want to start calling him Dad. I feel like we made progress.’ I never imagined in any universe that 10 hours later he would be taken away.”

Shani received a standing ovation from the crowd following her presentation. Jackie Ghalili ’24, who attended the event, said that she admired Shani’s courage to tell her story to others given her extreme circumstances.

“The whole time we were watching her, I was thinking

about how much strength it must have taken for her to stand in front of a bunch of kids older than her, in another country, speaking a language that [wasn't] her first language and recounting an event so traumatic and so recent,” Ghalili said.

Shani currently lives in Los Angeles (LA) with the Benami family and is in their custody because her mother has remained in Israel. Benami, who is Jewish, said that the attacks from Oct. 7 were evocative of the trauma once experienced by Jews in the past. “[The attacks] opened up a wound in terms of our Holocaust education,” Benami said. “The stories that were coming out were very reminiscent of the Holocaust. Every day that went by, we heard stories more and more horrific, stuff of your worst nightmares. Things that you would have never believed.”

Shani said she is raising awareness about the attacks in honor of her friends that were killed and the hostages that were taken.

“People who went through these [horrors] deserve to be remembered,” Shani said. “Some of the people killed were my friends.

My other friends [that are alive] are in a bad mental state, and they can barely come out of their beds. I’m doing it for all of them and the people killed who cannot be here today.”

Forbes Magazine admitted three alumni to the Forbes North America Under 30 List on Nov. 28. Harry Gestetner ’18 and Simon Pompan ’18 were selected for social media, and Larry Zhang ’14 was selected for consumer technology.

The list recognized 600 leaders within 20 different industries, including art and style, media, entertainment, education and science.

Honorees were selected from a worldwide 20,000-nominee pool.

Zhang co-founded Bandana, a modern media search platform that aims to provide users with more transparent information regarding wage-based jobs. Now featuring a 50-thousand-user population, Zhang said Bandana was founded as a result of his personal struggles in finding a job.

Gestetner and Pompan founded Fanfix, a subscription-based social media platform for digital creators to monetize their content. After high school, Gestetner and Pompan founded Fanfix in their sophomore year of college and sold it to talent agency SuperOrdinar for an estimated 65 million dollars in their senior year, according to Forbes.

Gestetner said being recognized

by Forbes was the culmination of multiple years of hard work and dedication to entrepreneurship.

“There’s a lot of hard work behind the scenes,” Gestetner said.

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“[Forming a business] takes longer than you think. We’ve been doing this for three years now. It was very rewarding and amazing to see our achievements recognized because it was a representation of hard work over a multiyear period.”

Gestetner said the school’s Venture program helped prepare him for his career.

“I was very involved in Venture, and [it was] incredible to get exposure to Los Angeles (LA) based entrepreneurs [and] HarvardWestlake alumni entrepreneurs,” Gestetner said. “[Venture Advisor Rob Levin] and [Head of Communications and Venture Teacher Ari Engelberg ’89], in particular, were very important in showing us the path to being a successful entrepreneur.”

Head of External Relations Ed Hu said the fact that multiple alumni are selected yearly for the Forbes 30 Under 30 list serves as a testament to the school’s academic and social excellence.

“For the last six or seven years, multiple Harvard-Westlake alums have been on that list which is pretty astounding,” Hu said. “I think [that] speaks to the kind of people that we’re putting out in the world and [the kind of impact] they’re having in different areas. Whether it’s in media, technology or social media. It makes us proud of the kind of people that are graduating.”

ILLUSTRATION BY EVA PARK

Students give blood to UCLA drive

By Yuna Jeon

CONNOR TANG/CHRONICLE

BLOOD FOR A CAUSE: Banyan Kline ’25 prepares to donate blood. The drive, in partnership with the UCLA Blood Center, took place on Dec. 5.

The school hosted a blood drive in partnership with University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Blood and Platelet Center on Dec. 5. All students above the age of 16 whose parent or guardian signed the required form were allowed to donate.

Parent Blood Drive Committee Co-Chair Xian Li (Angela Ren ’26, Matthew Ren ’26 and Benjamin Ren ’24) said blood donations are essential and can play a big role in helping save lives.

“Regular blood donation plays a crucial role in preventing shortages of blood or blood products in hospitals,” Li said. “Donated blood is utilized in treating patients with certain medical conditions like anemia and cancer. In emergencies, such as accidents or natural

disasters, blood transfusions save lives for trauma victims.”

Li also said donating blood brings members of the community together for a good cause.

“Beyond its significance in public health, blood donation demonstrates strong community support,” Li said. “It fosters a sense of social responsibility, bringing people together to support one another in times of need.”

Fiona Kim ’24, who is a first time blood donor, said she hopes to make a contribution to the community and help others in need.

“I wanted to give back to my community, and this was a wonderful opportunity presented to me by the school,” Kim said.

“People often take good health for granted, and it’s important that I use whatever [I have] to help out other people who may not have

those same advantages.”

After a donor gave blood, the UCLA team gifted $10 Starbucks gift cards to students to show their appreciation. Donors were also given further information about receiving their blood type info two to three days following the drive.

Parent Blood Drive Committee Co-Chair Theresa Ta (Kai Do ‘24) said that the turnout was slightly lower this year due to students’ busy schedules.

“The blood drive had a turnout of 48 people in total, with 28 students and the rest being parents and some faculty and staff,” Ta said. “We learned that this week was a very busy week not only for the students and school, but also for the parents, so [there] were slightly less donations this year.”

The school will host a second blood drive in the spring of 2024.

Dec. 13, 2023

hwchronicle.com/news

News A3

Trustee and benefactor dies at 99 after decades of board advisory Munger, while never formally chairman of the Harvard-Westlake “When I [became President of Board, influenced the direction of Harvard School] in July of 1987, I the school’s finances and resources. thought I should meet [Munger] Munger encouraged the self-insurin person and thank him,” Hudnut ance of faculty and staff, saving said. “I thought he would be tak- billions of dollars, according to ing me somewhere nice for lunch. Chief Financial Officer Emeritus We walked out of his office, got Rob Levin. Weil, Levin’s successor in the elevator and [went] all the in the position, said Munger unway down to the basement of the derstood the extent to taking risks.

Arco Tower where there was a Mc“There were times when Donald’s. We got in separate lines, [Munger] would encourage [the [and] I paid for my own lunch. [It school] to take risks,” Weil said. was] not what I was ex“He encouraged us to pecting at all. He was a look at the River Park wonderful man, [and] campus. He encourhe was a funny man.” aged us to think about In addition to his self-insurance [and] he school affiliation, encouraged us to have Munger contributan investment portfolio. ed to Marlborough That is very unusual for School, Polytechnic a school or a university.

L. Wood School, Stanford UniBut none of those risks David versity, the University were going to undermine Weil ’93 of Michigan and the the quality of the school, University of Califorand that’s the type of risk nia, Santa Barbara. that he often helped us navigate.”

Chief Financial Officer David Levin said Munger’s leadership, Weil ’93 said Munger’s commit- philosophy and mentorship are enment to the school was unmatched, during and will continue to have being rooted in the pleasure he de- an impact past his death. rived seeing the tangible success of “I was Munger’s disciple, [and] the school as well as his continual Weil was mine,” Levin said. “Beresolve to improve. fore and after [Weil joined], the “His association with Har- school was still being run in the vard-Westlake was longer than any Munger way. People don’t realother organization that he was ever ize [that] Munger was a hell of a involved in during his life,” Weil teacher. The best teaching and the said. “He loved the school and felt best leadership is [one where] the that we do things the right way.” teacher [and leader] can leave, and • Continued from A1

[their legacy] endures.”

Munger’s annual and spontaneous donations to the school funded the construction of the Munger Science Center. The 39 thousand-square-foot “science teacher’s dream” was largely designed by Munger, according to the L.A. Times. In thinking about Munger’s impact on the school’s infrastructure, Hudnut said Munger’s legacy was intended to be long-lasting.

“He was a forward-thinking person,” Hudnut said. “In the Munger Science Center, the walls that separate the classrooms are not weight-bearing walls because when the building was being constructed, he said, ‘We don’t know what the future of education is going to look like.’ He wanted [us] to be able to knock the walls [down] if bigger classrooms [were ]needed or add new walls if smaller classrooms [were] needed.”

Munger was selected as the commencement speaker for the Harvard School Class of 1986. Andrew Jameson ’86 (Keira ’22 and Reese ’25) said Munger emboldened the class through his impactful message, despite being much older than the graduating class. “[From the start], it was clear that we were listening to someone who was incredibly accomplished and intelligent,” Jameson said. “He was an older guy [when he spoke to us], and I wasn’t sure how he was going to connect with the au-

PRINTED WITH PERMISSION OF HARVARD-WESTLAKE ARCHIVES

54 YEARS OF GUIDANCE: Charlie Munger speaks at Commencement in 1986. He passed at the age of 99 after decades of service as a board trustee. dience because we were all 18. He was in his 60s, but he managed to inspire us to think critically about what it was we wanted to do with our lives. Munger set [us] off into the world in the right way through the power of his words.”

Commons said Munger will be remembered as both the school’s most devoted trustee and a beacon of wisdom.

“What a mind, what a life and what a gift to have been guided by such wisdom and friendship,” Commons said. “For now we will mourn his passing with unending gratitude for Munger’s extraordinary devotion to Harvard-Westlake, whose culture and aspirations will continue to honor his belief in this school and in all of us.”

Council gives toys to families in need

By Lyla Kavanagh

ELLA YADEGAR/CHRONICLE

SEASON OF GIVING: Community Council members stand together during the toy drive Dec. 4. Donations were encouraged throughout the week.

Community Council partnered with New Directions for Youth (NDY) to host a toy drive on the Quad from Nov. 30 to Dec. 7. Students were encouraged to donate new, unwrapped toys for low-income families for a chance to take pictures with Santa and Hanukkah Harry, make snowballs and grab candy canes.

Established in 1975, NDY provides direct services and programs, such as counseling, General Educational Development (GED) preparation and after school programs, to at-risk families. The organization supports

individuals throughout North Hollywood, Van Nuys, Panorama City and contiguous areas, according to their website.

Community Council member Zoe Roth ’24 said NDY has a vital role in helping underserved communities, especially adolescents.

“NDY has provided critically needed services to more than 200 thousand youth,” Roth said. “The majority of [youth] come from very low income families residing in underserved geographic areas.”

Roth said in addition to the toy drive, Community Council decided to pay for one family’s holiday expenses through NDY. “Community Council has

[also] decided to ‘adopt’ a family,” Roth said. ‘We get a list of family members, and each gets a new pair of shoes [and] a jacket.

If they are still young enough, they can ask for a toy.”

Ellery Shapiro ’24, who donated to the drive, said the opportunity to do so was a rewarding experience for her.

“Giving back to the community felt great,” Shapiro said. “I know [that] if I were in need, I would appreciate it if others thought about me and cared enough to spend time, money and energy on me.

All kids should be able to experience the joy of opening their gifts on Christmas morning.”

Six selected students attend annual diversity conference for leadership

By Jayan Kandavel

The school selected six applicants to attend the Student Diversity Leadership Conference (SDLC) in St. Louis, Missouri from Nov. 29 to Dec. 2. The conference aims to help people of color in high schools support one another as well as build and sustain inclusive communities, according to an email from Assistant Head of School for Community and Belonging Janine Jones.

Jones said the SDLC is important because of the unique opportunity for students to meet from across the country. “[The conference] is important because participants are able to connect with other like-minded students,” Jones said. “Most stu-

dents share that it is a life changing experience for them. Students participate in general sessions with powerful keynote speakers and family groups where they can go in depth with learning around diversity and affinity groups, where deep connections are formed.”

Nikhil Sarvaiya ’26 said it was eye-opening to learn more about himself and other communities.

“It was an amazing opportunity to learn more about my own identity and the experiences of others,” Sarvaiya said. “SDLC was one of the most transformative experiences of my life, and it reshaped the way I look at my own identity and the constraints of the social structures around us.”

Dylan Wuo ’25 said his favorite experience from the conference

was discussing what he had learned each night with his classmates.

“We would get back to the hotel at 11 [p.m.] and we would talk until midnight about what we learned,” Wuo said. “What was special about this was that we would be discovering new things about ourselves and [our lives] while eating dinner at midnight.”

Wuo said he appreciated hearing experiences from other attendees from different communities.

“It was a great opportunity to get to know different perspectives of other students,” Wuo said. “Hearing others is important because so many ideas can be bounced around. There is so much that we can take back to [the school] to improve our campus life and make it more inclusive.”

PRINTED WITH PERMISSION OF LAUREN PARK

STUDENTS FOR INCLUSION: Six representatives from the school stand together at the annual SDLC conference, which was held in St. Louis.

News A4

Dec. 13, 2023

hwchronicle.com/news

Young Arts Winners Seven students received recognition in visual and performing arts in the annual Young Arts competition for high schoolers in the country.

By Jack Ryan And William Liu

In the Distinction category, Ian Kim ’24 was awarded for his documentary film, “My Seven students won awards Sisters In The Stars: The Story and recognition in the National of Lee Yong-soo,” a stop-moYoungArts Foundation’s annual tion animation depicting the competition for the 2023-2024 life of a Korean woman who school year. Submissions for fell victim to Japanese sexual YoungArts were open to 15-18 slavery during World War II. year olds in visual, literary and The short film was also selectperforming arts. The submis- ed to be shown as part of the sions were reviewed through a annual Westflix Film Festival last March. blind judging process Kim said the proby a panel of process of creating his film fessional artists, and took several months. nearly 700 awards “I spent around 18 were given out to months interviewing, students around the animating and editcountry. The founing before the film was dation provided each completed,” Kim said. winner with an award “I spent several months of $250. working with a homeCertain selected L. Wood made [polyvinyl chloride winners in the DisIan pipe] animation stand to Kim ’24 tinction category were turn the interview testialso invited to participate in the National YoungArts mony into a fully animated short.”

Kim said winning the award Week, to take place Jan. 7-13, 2024. Hosted at the New World made him further believe in his Center in Miami, they have the artistry and animation skills.

“Being selected as a Winner opportunity to participate in interdisciplinary classes and work- with Distinction in YoungArts shops, be mentored by leading gave me an extra layer of conartists in their fields and win fidence in this story’s ability to further cash prizes worth up to resonate with different audienc$10,000. The winners are also es both on a storytelling and on eligible to be nominated to be- a technical level,” Kim said. “As come United States Presidential someone who primarily does Scholars in the Arts, whose top animation, it also gave me conwinning works are selected by fidence in the medium’s ability to compete with live-action as a the White House Commission.

Winning Works

documentary medium.”

The winners in the regular category were Sabrina Liu ’24 in Classical Music, Abe Effress ’25 in Jazz Music and Claire Wu ’24, Laila Vasandani ’26, Samaya Sayana-Manchanda ’26 and Tehmina Malhotra ’26 in Photography.

Upper School Performing Arts Teacher Chris Sullivan said he did not assist Effress with his submission for this year’s competition, but looked forward to working more with the YoungArts organization in the future.

“I didn’t have any role whatsoever in [Effress’] YoungArts submission,” Sullivan said. “[Effress] pursued this all on his own — writing the music, hiring the musicians, recording and submitting. I put a lot of competitions on the yearly calendar, but YoungArts was not one of them.

It will be going forward.”

Wu said her winning photography project was meant to be a form of resistance to Asian beauty standards.

“My [photo series] is related to the beauty standard in Asian culture,” Wu said. “An increasing number of Asian girls are influenced by the intersection of Asian and Western beauty trends through social media, believing that beauty follows a fixed formula. These standards have a huge impact on young girls’ physical and mental health. As someone who has

been oppressed by this set of competition because of its exbeauty standards, I wanted to tensive resources for artists, voice my opposition.” from creative and professionSayana-Manchanda said her al development to funding for winning photography allowed personal projects,” Liu said. “I to connect better with her fam- believe organizations like Younily through her artwork. gArts are important to encour“I created a series, ‘Gen- age and support the next generational Women,’ based on eration of artists to pursue their my mother, grandmother and craft and passion.” great aunt’s lives,” Sayana-ManSara Segil ’25 said she is conchanda said. “Throughout stantly impressed by the work of this process I her classmates. deepened my “It’s so cool bond with my how students are Organizations grandmother able to create like YoungArts are and her sister, such impressive being a way to important to encourage works of art all connect. When while still beand support the next I learned I’d ing students and generation of artists.” won, I was exhaving other tremely graterequirements,” —Sabrina Liu ’24 Segil said. “It’s ful that my YoungArts winner always really exhard work had paid off.” citing to see the Liu, a flutist, final products of said she was thrilled to find out she people’s creative processes, espewon an award. cially since I didn’t know a lot of “This year was my first time them were actually artists.” competing in National YounSegil said YoungArts is a gArts,” Liu said. “I auditioned good opportunity for artists at with four technically and mu- the school to gain recognition. sically demanding pieces total“Everyone at the school has ing one hour. I was very excited such diverse passions,” Segil when I saw my name on the said. “I’m always in awe of the press release of winners.” work that people do and I’m so Apart from the award, Liu glad that people are being recalso said YoungArts helps sup- ognized for their hard work.” port and develop artists’ work.

Applications for the 2025 “While winning certain- YoungArts competition will ly feels nice, I also entered the open in June 2024.

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ILLUSTRATIONS BY AMELIA CHIARELLI

PRINTED WITH PERMISSION OF SAMAYA SAYANA-MANCHANDA AND CLAIRE WU

A5 News

The Chronicle

Dec. 13, 2023

Senior publishes crossword

By Everett Lakey

Aidan Deshong ’24 published his first crossword puzzle for USA Today on Dec. 12. Although Deshong has created crosswords for his personal blog for almost a year and for the Chronicle publication, this is only the second time that his puzzles have been used by a major newspaper, with the first being published in the Boston Globe. Deshong said he was able to pitch his crossword to USA Today because the publication recently opened up publication opportunities for external creators like himself.

“As soon as [the opportunity opened], anyone who wanted to could email them with a theme,” Deshong said.

“I came up with a theme idea, which I won’t spoil for people who want to do it, [and] sent it over. They said, ‘Looks good.

Let’s tweak it a little bit, make it a little simpler,’ because USA Today is supposed to be the easiest [crossword]. Then, I sent them a grid and that got approved. Then, I wrote clues and that got approved. The whole thing took about a week in about mid-October.”

Upper School Science Teacher Nate Cardin, who describes himself a crossword enthusiast, said he admires all that Deshong has accomplished so far as a crossword writer.

“I am quite proud of [Deshong] for being a published crossword constructor at such a young age,” Cardin said.

“It’s a rare feat, and I bet this is only the beginning for him.

I’ve watched his skills develop over the past year and have also gotten to write a few crosswords with him.”

Oren Hartstein ’24 said he enjoyed solving Deshong’s puzzle, which he thought was creatively written.

“The crossword was skillfully constructed and had a very creative theme,” Hartstein said. “I greatly enjoyed solving it.”

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DODGEBALL DUELS: Collin Caras ’25 and Otto Stothart ’25 discuss strategy prior to their match. Following 10 days of competition in Prefect Council’s annual dodgement tournament, team “Crespi Kreme” beat team “DAWGERS” in the final for the team’s third consecutive championship Dec. 8.

Prefect Council hosts the annual schoolwide dodgeball competition in Taper Gymasium

By Yuna Jeon

Prefect Council hosted the annual dodgeball tournament, with matches between teams starting Nov. 28 and the final Dec 8. All games took place during lunch in Taper Gymnasium.

Twelve teams competed this year, with each team consisting of up to eight players with an alternate and up to one faculty member. All games were refereed by the Head Fanatics.

Sophomore Prefect Sarah Anschell ’26 said the purpose of the tournament is to bring a fun element to the stressful weeks leading up to Winter Break.

“Especially because the time between the Thanksgiving and Winter breaks can be super stressful, the goal is for dodgeball to be something light hearted and fun for the community to look forward too,” Anschell said.

“Hopefully it is a good change of pace for people to take their minds off of classes and enjoy the competition.”

Anschell said Prefect Council worked on making the games smoother this year in hopes of making the tournament more enjoyable for players.

“This year, the Prefect Council tried to simplify the [dodgeball] tournament and relax some of the guidelines to make it easier for the teams playing,” Anschell said.

The dodgeball tournament is fairly new to the upper school campus and was adapted from the middle school’s version of the competition in 2021.

Dhara Jobrani ’26, a member of the team “Taiwan Tigers,” said he enjoys the tournament because he is able to connect with students from other grades.

“We had a team back in ninth grade and we wanted to mix it up a little bit this year,” Jobrani said. “We have some senior and junior players on the team which is a nice change, and hopefully we have a better chance of winning. I like how the tournament is a place for all students of all dif-

ferent grades to get together and play dodgeball.”

“Taiwan Tigers” lost to team “DAWGERS” in the quarterfinals, giving team “DAWGERS” a place in the semifinals.

In the semifinal rounds Dec. 5, team “Crespi Kreme” defeated “BigGuard University” 2-0 and team “DAWGERS” prevailed against “FCZF” with a score of 2-1.

The finals Dec. 8 was between team “DAWGERS” and team “Crespi Kreme.”

Jonah Benadon ’25, member of team “DAWGERS,” said the team was determined as they headed into the final game.

“So far we’ve breezed through the competition but we know it all comes down to this.”

Benadon said. “We didn’t come this far to lose, and we’re going in to win.”

Barron Linnekens ’26, who played on team “BigGuardUniversity,” said being able to form his own team emphasized a sense of community.

“The competition is something fun and stress-free I can do with my friends during the school day,” Linnekes said. “I like how we get to put together a team on our own, and it really brings the school community together because I got to meet new people through creating my team. I was able to get closer to people I’ve never really talked to before dodgeball.”

Team “Crespi Kreme” defeated team “DAWGERS” in the team’s third consecutive dodgeball tournament championship.

Adi Shokeen ’24, who played on team “Crespi Kreme,” said he felt more focused on winning the championship than having a fun time. “[It was huge] to secure a three peat,” Shokeen said. “I am super proud of the lads for getting it done. It’s been a pleasure sharing the court with the same guys since sophomore year. I think [it was] just as important to win as it was important to get the three peat.”

Model UN competes in tournament

By Sienna Dall’Olmo and Ella Jeon

JAKE LANCER/CHRONICLE

MUN MASTERY: The Model UN team competed in the Los Angeles Invitational Model United Nations in Manhattan Beach on Dec. 2.

The Model United Nations (MUN) team attended the Los Angeles Invitational Model United Nations (LAIMUN) at Mira Costa High School on Dec. 2.

Students engaged in special committees and discussed current events, including climate change, human trafficking and the ethics of space exploration.

Zoe Kramar ’24 and Hailey Kramar ’27 were awarded Outstanding Delegates for representing Germany in the Disarmament and International Security Committee.

Tanya Anand ’24 received an Outstanding Delegate and Research Award. Chase Mayer ’26 won a Research Award and a Commendation. Rex Grube ’25 and Dhara Jobrani ’26 also received Commendations for their speeches.

Anand said competing in MUN has taught her to emerge as a leader in large groups.

“[MUN] is a simulation of different nations trying to get what is best for them,” Anand said. “A lot of times, you have to establish yourself [as a leader] and start designating tasks. This requires you to understand how to make people listen to you, make sure your voice is heard and assert control over a situation.”

Jobrani said he felt more confident at the tournament because he knew what to expect.

“This was my second Model UN conference, so I came in feeling more prepared,” Jobrani said.

“I was able to use that readiness to speak [more clearly] and deliver my points [more] effectively. I ended up winning an award which is a great improvement from my last conference.”

Zoe Kramar ’24 said the conference was especially rewarding because it gave her a chance to collaborate with her sister.

“My partner was my younger sister, [and this] was the highlight

of the weekend,” Zoe Kramar said. “It was special to be able to [participate in an] activity that [is] meaningful to me with my best friend and win together.”

Zoe Kramar said she looks forward to traveling to Washington, D.C. in February 2024 to compete in the North American Invitational Model United Nations (NAIMUN), a large conference for high school students.

“Our annual trip to the East Coast is my favorite part of MUN,” Zoe Kramar said. “It’s a wonderful way to meet people with similar interests from all over the world and travel with friends from home.

Mia Ushiba ’26 said she gained familiarity with the debate format.

“A highlight was just being able to see how everything worked and experience the structure of debates,” Ushiba said. “By the second half, I understood more about MUN and was able to participate more.”

News A6

hwchronicle.com/news

Dec. 13, 2023

HWPA brings baked goods in festive-themed Senior Appreciation

By William Liu

Headley also said he enjoyed the cookies.

“The treats are well-baked and The Harvard-Westlake Parents’ Association (HWPA) handed delicious,” Headley said. “I think out free, home-baked cookies to it’s sweet that they were baked by celebrate the third Senior Appre- the parents because it makes the ciation event of the 2023-2024 events even more personal for [our] senior year.” school year Dec. 4.

Andrew Khachatourian ’24 During the first Senior Appreciation Day, seniors received said the event gave seniors a senior sweatshirts and popsicles chance to come together as a class Sept. 19. The second event of- amid the pressure that surrounds fered Halloween-themed gifts college admissions.

“I’ve been [at the Upper and caramel apples Oct. 30.

Chris Headley ’24 said he ap- School] since I was a sophomore, preciated the reward for his hard [and] it’s been awesome seeing the seniors get these special work throughout high school. days,” Khachatourian “I feel like we go to said. “Seniors are pretty a school where we must stressed and tight about work hard to get to this college admissions, so point,” Headley said. “It I’m glad this is a time feels nice when all [of ] where the class can be your hard work [over] seen as a community.” four or six years is recMass said she hopes ognized once and for the event reminded stuall. I lost a lot of sleep, dents to cherish their but I’m happy it was reL. Wood time as seniors. warded in the form of Chris “These events are a sugar and cookies.”

Headley ’24 great way to remind the HWPA volunteer Jane Mass (Annabelle ’24) said students and parents that senior these events can help students year is going quickly,” Mass said. pause and reflect on the signifi- “They should cherish the time they have, and I’m glad our parcance of the holiday season.

“My favorite thing is being ent community is open to doing on campus and getting to see the events like these. I don’t think that kids,” Mass said. “It’s a great com- we don’t have enough events, but munity builder and a nice break for there could always be more. The students to stop and remind them- current number is sufficing, but selves of the holidays and what this it’s never a bad idea to give the time of year is about. It’s a great students more opportunities to opportunity to bring them togeth- socialize and relax.”

Mass also said the event was er or sit down to have a cookie.”

Headley said these events can also a good opportunity for parhelp to alleviate the stress levels ents to socialize.

“One of the mom’s thought of of students.

“Events like these make me the event,” Mass said. “It was a rehappy, but I think students still ally good idea because it brought [feel pressure],” Headley said. the parents together to bake and “Going to these events and vari- organize a line of cookies for the kids to have.” ous senior celebrations can help.”

ALDEN DETMER/CHRONICLE

OBSERVING THE OCEAN: AP Environmental Science students collect data for a lab at Leo Carillo State Beach on Dec. 8. Students observed organisms commonly found in tidal zones such as anemones and kelp.

APES classes travel to the beach

By Alden Detmer

AP Environmental Studies (APES) classes traveled to Leo Carrillo State Beach for the annual intertidal biodiversity study.

Students either traveled to the beach Dec. 8 or Dec. 11, depending on their APES block.

In preparation for the trip, students learned about the conservation of biodiversity and ecology in class. Science Teacher Ryan Ellingson said the goal of the trip was to connect information from lectures to the real world.

“The trip is really just to try and connect those concepts that [students] have [learned] in class to something in real life,” Ellingson said. “When you learn about something in a classroom, you can know it and believe it, but [students often] have to stretch their brain to connect it to their everyday life. If we can bring stu-

dents out there and they can see organisms themselves, then when we analyze the data, everyone can better connect to the concepts.”

Ellingson said he hopes the trip will inspire more students to become invested in the environment.

“Just as important as the course content is getting students outside into the environment,” Ellingson said. “We’re learning about the environment, but we can’t just assume that everyone cares about the environment if they haven’t grown up going outside a lot.

Why should you care about these things that we’re teaching in class?

If we can bring students there and let them experience the interesting and beautiful parts of nature, then, hopefully, that inspires students to care a little bit more about those things.”

Max Dessner ’24 said he was surprised by how much he enjoyed seeing organisms in person.

“I thought the trip was actually pretty fun,” Dessner said. “I would much prefer [the trip] than going to a classroom, sitting there all day and listening to a lecture.

Since it was a very hands-on experience with biodiversity, I learned a lot. Instead of just reading about something and looking at a picture, I could see with my own two eyes, live and in-person. That’s really valuable for anybody learning [about] any subject.”

George Ma ’25 said seeing a beached sea lion provided additional perspective into how biodiversity loss is actually affecting a local beach.

“We saw a sea lion that was unfortunately sick, but still alive,” Ma said. “Even though it was kind of sad, it connected back to what we’re learning about humans’ impact on animals and the loss of biodiversity, which has been a big problem.”

HWSAA arranges first Thankathon of the year

By Colin Ho

PRINTED WITH PERMISSION OF IVY BUNNAK

GAINING FROM GRATITUDE : Lily Stambouli ’24 and Megan Kim ’24 pose with the two Erewhon gift cards they earned from writing 20 “thank you” letters to alumni who donated during the HWSAA event.

The Harvard-Westlake Student Alumni Association (HWSAA) hosted their first Alumni Thanka-thon event of the year in Ahmanson Lecture Hall on Dec. 4.

Last school year, HWSAA hosted two Thank-a-Thon events, where they provided the attendees with snacks, drinks and food as they wrote letters to alumni who made donations to the school.

According to an Instagram post created by HWSAA, Megan Kim ’24 and Lily Stambouli ’24 were each awarded Erewhon gift cards for writing 20 “thank you” letters to the alumni who donated. Kim said she started participating in the Thank-a-Thon because her friends encouraged her to and has returned every year since because she found the event to be an impactful way to connect with alumni.

“I’ve gone since 10th grade, and I really [appreciate] being able to reach out to alumni,” Kim said. “I [love] being able to thank our community, and it feels personal because we are able to talk about what we are doing at school [in the cards] and draw parallels with [alumni experiences].”

Like Kim, Stambouli said she has been going to Thank-a-Thons since 10th grade. Stambouli said

it is important for students to write “thank you” letters in order for alumni to see how their donations benefit students on a more personal level.

“The event is a really good excuse to chill with friends [while] giving back to the community,” Stambouli said. “It’s really good for alumni to see where their donations are going within the community. In the letters, we usually write a note thanking the alumni for their donations and explaining what [we] are interested in and [how we have] utilized the school’s resources to expand upon that interest.”

Glory Ho ’24 said student-alumni relationships can help students envision what their careers and lives may look like after graduating and allow them to fully appreciate the experiences and knowledge they gain from attending the school.

“Student-alumni relationships are definitely important to build because they [give] students the clearest and most realistic ideas of what their futures could look like,” Ho said. “They show students the ways that the school prepares you for the future beyond just [college], and they help build connections that could become vital for students on both a professional and personal level.”

Dec. 13, 2023

hwchronicle.com/news

News A7

VEX teams compete in school-run event

By Alex Lee and Maximus Nam

ERIN RYU/CHRONICLE

FELDMAN FESTIVITIES: Parent volunteers cook and serve traditional Indian and Japanese cuisine for school faculty to enjoy in front of the Feldman-Horn Gallery. The event was hosted by HW Parents, CHAI and JAG.

Cultural clubs host faculty lunch

By Erin Ryu

The Harvard-Westlake Parents (HWP) partnered with the Japanese-American Affinity Group (JAG) and Cultural Heritage and Arts of India (CHAI) to host the monthly Faculty and Staff Appreciation Luncheon in the Feldman-Horn Gallery on Dec. 1. JAG and CHAI provided a variety of traditional desserts. The foods emphasized the culture and heritage of the families at the school.

Upper School World Languages Teacher Marc Schuhl said the luncheon allowed him to take a break from teaching and connect with parents.

“Winter is a [busy] time of year, and it [was] the Friday

of a long week. Having people [do] something nice for me [is] something I appreciate, and it [helps] me be in a better mood,” Schuhl said. “[The luncheons] build a sense of community. A couple of the parents who were there are actually parents of my students, so it was nice to chat with them.”

Upper School History Teacher Michelle Martinez said she appreciated the array of foods provided as well as the tireless collaboration between the parents and affinity groups.

“What I liked about the luncheon was that I didn’t have to think about bringing something or going down to the cafeteria,” Martinez said. “[The] food has been really good, so that’s also

[enjoyable]. It’s really nice that the different [affinity] groups and parents [host] it. There’s involvement and community.”

Faculty Appreciation Committee Co-Chair Renata Salo (AJ ’26) said the luncheons are meant to acknowledge the effort the faculty and staff put in for students.

“The events are an incredible time for [parents] to thank the faculty for everything they do for all of our children on a daily basis,” Salo said. “It’s a way for us to say hello [and] to have them understand that we are their [partners] and we are so happy and appreciative of the time they give our kids [and our] families. We want to support them as much as we can.”

The FRC teams at least have practice spaces, but we don’t have any.”

Many of the school’s teams Thirty-six robotics teams from across California gathered at the were unable to place high Upper School from Dec. 1–3 to enough to move on to the state compete for the chance to qual- qualifiers tournament. Matthew ify for the 2023-2024 VEX sea- Ren ’26, member of team 62 Z, son state tournament. Six of the said the team needs to improve school’s teams competed. Of their programming abilities, these teams, 62 A was able to win but it will be difficult because fourth place. There were no oth- they do not have access to proper school teams that were able to er practicing facilities.

“We need to get better at proplace high enough to qualify for gramming to make our autonothe state tournament.

Team 62 H landed in 23rd mous routines more accurate,” place with six losses and three Ren said. “We also need more driver practice to imwins. 62 H member prove our driving more Gabrielle Carmy ’26 to win. Our robot right said she wishes the Upnow is slow, and we per School was more don’t have enough pracsupportive of VEX. tice. It’s hard for us to “I feel like [the practice as we need to upper school] doesn’t go to the Lower School invest enough in our to drive and program VEX teams,” Carmy our autonomous.” said. “We don’t even L. Wood For all four years have a lot of parts here.

Dru of its existence, the Sometimes, we have Reed ’24 tournament has been to get pieces from the Lower School, which can take a mostly staffed by student volwhile. While building a robot unteers. Dru Reed ‘24 said deis definitely important, I don’t spite the varying performances think it’s the only thing that the of the VEX teams at the tournament, the volunteers were able school could support better.”

Carmy said the Upper School to manage the event well.

“The tournament went really lacks the proper facilities to be smoothly,” Reed said. “While able practice VEX robotics.

“If you took away the foot- there were a few technical erball field and expected the team rors with devices not working, to just go out and play on game we were able to stay on schedday without practicing on the ule throughout the tournament. football field, it would be a Our middle school VEX teams mess,” Carmy said. “I’m not were able to learn a lot from our saying that the school should high school teams during the even support us as much as they tournament. Hopefully seeing do [First Robotics Competition their more experienced team(FRC)], but they should sup- mates competing successfully port us to the amount that they has inspired them to work harddo for the middle school teams. er on their own abilities.”

In-person visits held

By Hannah Shahidi

Student Ambassadors volunteered at a Family Visiting Day (FVD) hosted by the Admission Office for prospective seventh and ninth grade applicants Dec. 9. Student Ambassadors toured visiting families and led extracurricular workshops.

Associate Director of Admission Julia Kraft said the event is a way for applicants to learn more about the different clubs and extracurriculars that the school offers. “[FVDs] are another opportunity for applicants to see the school and hear about some clubs and activities from different adults,” Kraft said. “It’s nice for us to show families what we are proud of and love about the school.”

FVD events take place on the weekend as opposed to smaller individual tours that are held during the school day. Student Ambassador Co-Chair Natalie Ascorra ’24 said she is in charge of organizing the tour groups and making sure that Student Ambassadors stay on task throughout the day.

“I really like talking to applying families and helping applying students,” Ascorra said. “It’s great to be able to show them around Harvard-Westlake and all the different things they can do here.

My responsibilities are to split up the Student Ambassadors to send them off in their groups and

make sure every student is completing their responsibilities.”

Samaya Sayana-Nanchanda ’26 volunteered at the event and said the personal connection that FVDs provide often help make applicants more comfortable on campus.

“I decided to volunteer because I love being a student ambassador, and I’ve done it for the last three years,” Sayana-Nanchanda said. “It’s always fun to show the school to new people. Being able to tour just makes it so much better to understand the layout of the campus and know the people who go here.”

Jasiri Johnson ’27 said he decided to volunteer because he wanted to give people the same heartwarming tour experience he had during his own FVD. “It was a fun experience getting to meet people that are going to be in my grade next year,” Johnson said. “It’s different when you meet somebody in-person, one-on-one, versus on a zoom call or even in a large group. I want to serve as a beacon for someone else and let them have an impactful experience on the tour. When I came last year, there was a person I recognized, and I’m like, ‘Oh, I remember you toured me during my family visit.’ That made me feel so happy. So when I realized that I could do these tours, I said, ‘I’d love to tour.’”

HANNAH SHAHIDI/CHRONICLE

APPLICANTS AND ADMISSIONS: Parents of student applicants hear from Head of School Laura Ross and Head of Admission Chris Sanders in Saperstein Theater on a Family Visiting Day hosted by the admission office.

Merry Cross-mas!

ACROSS: 1. Word that means “no place” 7. Go-getter 11. Point of no return?

14. Meet cute movie genre 15. Palindromic boy’s name 16. Vase with a base 17. People unsure of the existence of two gods?

19. Danson of “The Good Place” 20. It’s near the funny bone

Dec. 13, 2023

The Chronicle

A8 News

21. They can be tough to crack 22. Bygone Apple products 24. Last name ironically added to the end of nouns 26. Slightly 27. Behave like similarly-charged particles 30. Crater that’s ten times larger than usual?

34. ___ Lingus 35. Orchestra member 38. Home of Emerald Golf Course

39. Got older three times?

41. Spearheaded a quadrillion times?

43. One, in German 44. Wicked ones 46. First lady?

47. Nick that’s onetenth as large as usual?

49. Big dos 51. Revise 52. Catherine of “Schitt’s Creek” 55. Boyle’s Law subjects 57. Verb heard a while

Chron-nections

Aidan Deshong ’24 concocted Volume 33’s fourth crossword. Do you have the expertise necessary to solve this massive mind-bender? Good luck to all!

before “Thank you for flying with Delta” 58. Dr. Frankenstein’s assistant 62. They cost millions at the Super Bowl 63. Do one-millionth of a captain’s work?

66. Earth 67. Fruit with an accent 68. Garb 69. Tire pressure unit, briefly 70. Piece of coal 71. Like matryoshka dollsfruits

• Answers on C4

DOWN: 1. Official language of Pakistan 2. Keep at it 3. Country whose flag contains a Khanjar 4. Steam purchase 5. H+ or F6. ___ Us (online video game) 7. Lowercase letter with a tittle 8. Inventor whose work had its ups and downs?

9. “..., you get the idea” 10. Bilingual Muppet 11. Person with a lot of wheels?

12. Street ____ 13. Concludes 18. Be litigious 23. “Top Chef ” host Lakshmi 25. Shoe named after a problem 26. Did a thing 27. Gave five stars, say 28. Spine-tingling 29. Royal who worked to destigmatize HIV, familiarly 31. Network that used to broadcast the World Series of Poker: abbr.

32. “¡Prospero Año ___!”

33. Oceans’ motions 36. Suit well 37. Wednesday’s namesake 40. Tangent 42. Winter Palace resident 45. Self-guided tour?

48. Wretched 50. Blacks out for a second 53. Sound after boo or yoo 54. “Darn it!”

55. [No way!]

56. Fusses 57. Many a URL in a YouTube comment (sigh) 59. Walking speed 60. Shrek, for one 61. College that Steve Jobs dropped out of 64. Hospital area that sounds like a sentence 65. Had some food

Sabrina Hamideh ’25 schemed up our second Chron-nections.

To play, find four groups of four words that share a common category. Each word belongs to only one category. Good luck!

Opinion The Chronicle • Dec. 13, 2023

Studio City • Vol. 33 • Issue 4 • Dec. 13, 2023 • hwchronicle.com

Editors-in-Chief: Averie Perrin, Ella Yadegar Print Managing Editors: Jade Harris, Iona Lee, Davis Marks

editorial

Presentation Managing Editors: Kriste An, Chloe Park, Tate Sheehy Executive Editors: Jackson Mayer, Grant Park News Editor: Sammy Glassman Assistant News Editors: Jayan Kandavel, Everett Lakey, Alex Lee, Hannah Shahidi, Jack Ryan Connor Tang, Nathan Wang Opinion Editor: Jackson Tanner Assistant Opinion Editors: Eden Conner, Sabrina Hamideh, William Liu, Hana Mehdi Williams, Olivia Phillips, Max Turetzky Features Editor: Dylan Graff Assistant Features Editors: Alden Detmer, Alex Dinh, Zoe Goor, Georgia Grad, Saisha Kumar, MeJo Liao A&E Editor: Caroline Plunkett Assistant A&E Editors: Sasha Aghnatios, Crista Kim, Katelyn Kim, Mia Morgan, Olivia So Sports Managing Editor: Jake Lancer Sports Editors: Karsten Cole, Christopher Mo Assistant Sports Editors: Hailey Cho, Justin Tang, Tiffany Wang Satire Editors: Jade Harris, Davis Marks Assistant Satire Editors: Zoe Goor, Hannah Shahidi Digital Editor: Casey Reims Business Managers: Grant Park, Tate Sheehy Art Director: Eva Park Illustrators: Amelia Chiarelli, Annabelle Cheung, Iris Chung, Ashley Ham, Ava Hakakha, Alexandria Liu, Juana Markman, Lucia Plata, Maiya Holly, Sabrina Simek, Siena Orwitz Executive Broadcast Producer: Jake Lancer Assistant Broadcast Producers: Rohan Amin, Alexa Benitez, Hunter Bridgett, Eric Chang, Hudson Chen, Grace Coleman, William Coleman, Jack Limor, Aaron Milburn Layout Assistants and Staff Writers: Annabelle Cheung, Iris Chung, Emma Cohen, Sienna Dall’Olmo, Wynne Davis, Kayla Graff, Lydia Gugsa, Colin Ho, Ella Jeon, Yuna Jeon, Lyla Kavanagh, Audrey Kim, Audrey Wage, Connor Merrihew, Max Nam, Analeigh Nava, Shiara Navarro, Alex Reisner, Andrea Ricabal, Olivia Roosa, Erin Ryu, Eila Shokravi, Aven Son, Celine Wang, Sophia Wiczyk Director of HW Media: Jen Bladen Chronicle Adviser: Billy Montgomery HWTV and Broadcast Adviser: Max Tash Assistant Adviser: James Lane

Publication Information: Founded in 1990, The Chronicle is the Harvard-Westlake Upper School’s student-led newspaper. Now in its 33rd year, The Chronicle strives to report stories accurately and to uphold its legacy of journalistic integrity. The newspaper is published eight times per year and distributed to students, parents, faculty and staff. The paper is affiliated with two school magazines, Big Red and Panorama. We are members of the California Newspaper Publishers Association and the Private School Journalism Association.

ILLUSTRATION BY AMELIA CHIARELLI

Eliminating Emphasis on EDs

Each year, a wall at the Harvard School for Boys was covered with sheets of paper, until the plaster underneath was barely visible. These sheets of paper were rejection letters received by students at the school, turning disappointment into a collective experience and in the process, creating a more lighthearted atmosphere surrounding the college admissions process. That tradition, known as the Wall of Shame, continued after Harvard became Harvard-Westlake but ended over a decade ago. In its absence, today’s students receive acceptances, deferrals and rejections, alike, with an attitude of apocalyptic seriousness.

This week, many students will receive their first batch of college decisions. Thinking about the college admissions process, early decision (ED) results often seem like the culmination of our high school experience. However, this singular moment does not define our entire academic future. It is normal for students to send applications to around 10 or 15 schools; ED results dictate the outcome from just one of these schools. Rejection from one school should not spark panic or fleeting decisions and does not mean students should start sending applications to schools that do not align with their goals.

College admissions officers, though diligent, operate under significant time constraints. Each application is given limited attention and read in just a few minutes. The decisions students receive are, thus, not personal. Rejections are not a reflection of an individual student’s worth but the outcome of a complex, subjective process affected by many factors.

Part of the stress surrounding ED applications stems from the competitive environment that the school fosters and students’

subsequent embarrassment of being rejected. Though reviving traditions like the Wall of Shame isn’t a practical solution, there is a benefit to approaching the college admissions process with a similar lighthearted attitude. The road to higher education should be characterized by learning and growth rather than pressure to get into a prestigious college.

In an attempt to shield students from the emotional rollercoaster of college decisions, the administration has discouraged teachers from discussing these matters in class. Though the intention is to create a supportive environment, the unintended consequence is a vacuum where students are left to grapple with their emotions in isolation. Open discussions about college decisions with educators can destigmatize the embarrassment that often follows a rejection and foster a sense of togetherness, allowing students to share their experiences, seek advice and find solace in shared challenges.

ED results are not life sentences but milestones in an education. The consequence of not gaining acceptance is a mere two to three weeks spent crafting applications — nothing compared to the hours we have spent as high school students. Students should view the college admissions process as an adventure rather than a source of dread. There is no singular “right” school, and the challenges we face contribute to our growth and resilience. In fact, most students who are rejected from their ED schools find a school that is just as much, if not better, suited for their goals.

In maintaining perspective, embracing humor and fostering open conversations, we can transform the narrative surrounding college admissions into one of exploration, self-growth and triumph.

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A10 Opinion

The Chronicle

Dec. 13, 2023

Rethink digital activism

By Hannah Shahidi

H

ealth insurance in the United States is bullsh*t.”

“Things you didn’t know were rape culture.” “What is genocide?" Painted in pastel colors, these phrases dominate our social media feeds. Numerous political activist accounts on Instagram share graphics adorned with such phrases, each followed up with additional slides featuring bullet points that dissect the current political issues.

Such infographics have become commonplace on social media platforms. With a single search, users can find hundreds of posts about abortion, systemic racism or ongoing international wars. Any polarizing issue in today’s American political landscape can be found online.

Though social media can help make information more accessible to the public, it poses significant harm due to its potential to spread misinformation. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram and X (formerly known as Twitter) prioritize attention-grabbing content that users will be prone to interact with, leading to clickbait and oversimplified narratives. Condensing complex issues into brief posts can also lead to oversimplification — as seen in posts covering recent conflict in Israel. It is impossible to sum up an inter-generational conflict into a few, short bullet points, and trying to do so only exacerbates polarization. Rather than prioritizing concision, social media should serve as a starting point for users to educate themselves whilst learning to form nuanced opinions.

One other issue that stems from social media activism is the lack of exposure to diverse and varied perspectives.

One other issue that stems from social media activism is the lack of exposure to diverse and varied perspectives. Social media platforms use specific algorithms that are de-

signed to provide users with content that is aligned with their existing views. This creates an echo chamber, resulting in the development of uninformed, one-sided opinions.

During the height of the pandemic, false theories regarding COVID-19 spread online, instilling fear in people, according to The National Library of Medicine. Several people refused to receive vaccinations and remain home in quarantine because of this. Exposure to one-sided and inaccurate information led to a fundamental undermining of public health efforts and exacerbation of the crisis.

It is also crucial to understand the motivations behind posting and reposting certain messages on social media. Though some users use their platform to help raise awareness, there are people who post because of social obligation or to exhibit a certain public image. Online virtue signaling often does not result in tangible change, and without the right motivations for posting, important issues become trivialized and are reduced to mere trends.

One cause that fell victim was the Black Lives Matter movement that received major attention on social media in 2020. On June 2, 2020, over 28 million people posted a black square on Instagram in honor of Blackout Tuesday, a collective action to protest police brutality against Black Americans, according to NBC. On the surface, this might resemble a spark for change. However, if most people posted because of a feeling of social obligation, there is no further promise that real change will come from it. 50% of all Americans consider themselves politically active on social media. Yet, only 19% reported having researched information on protests, rallies and other ways of advocating for change, according to the Pew Research Center. A few days after Blackout Tuesday, most posts were taken down, showing that many posters didn't actually care about the cause they were promoting — highlighting the problem of performative, temporary actions in the name of activism.

• Continued on hwchronicle.com

ILLUSTRATION BY EVA PARK

College isn't the end goal

By Eden Conner

I

t’s a Friday night, and the stands around Ted Slavin Field are empty. It's Wednesday, and the dinner table has an open spot as a computer keyboard clicks upstairs.

It’s winter of senior year, and someone's friendship is strained over an Early Decision (ED) application.

It’s a normal day, and students are so focused on getting into college that they forget how to be people.

Google describes the school as a

“co-educational college preparatory day school.” It is just a fancy way of describing co-educational high school, but it also serves as an image of what life at the Upper School can be: three years of eating, sleeping and breathing college admissions. Students enroll in the school with the aspiration of receiving a top-notch education and securing admission into a prestigious college. What becomes problematic,

ILLUSTRATION BY LUCIA PLATA

Ukraine should negotiate to end the war

By Jackson Tanner

O

ct. 7th has dethroned Feb. 24th. Since Hamas’ brutal attack upon Israel, it is news about Israel that has been grabbing attention — not Ukraine, relegated to yesterday’s paper. This waning interest is understandable for a war that the Chief of the Ukrainian General Staff recently described as a “stalemate” in a November interview with The Economist. Just six months ago, flashy headlines were being run by major Western newspapers about Ukraine’s upcoming counteroffensive. Ukraine and parts of the Western media were adamant that Ukraine would retake Crimea — effectively ending the conflict by restoring Ukraine’s 1991 borders.

The grim fact for Ukraine is that they are unlikely to get media attention or the massive levels of Western military and economic aid that have enabled them to remain a viable combatant against a determined and relentless Russian state. A Ukrainian force with the offensive military capabilities of the one deployed this summer is unlikely to be constructed again, due to exhausted Western stockpiles — and waning enthusiasm from North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) states.

Perhaps the best indicator of this is Ukrainian access to artil-

lery shells, the workhorses of combat in this conflict. The U.S. already is having to split deliveries for artillery shells between Israel and Ukraine, an effective admission that there are not enough for both. A September article in Business Insider reported that Russian manufacturers produced seven times more shells than the West. If the West doesn’t have the capacity to provide the Ukrainian military’s most basic need, as a litany of Ukrainian officials have publicly stated thus far, increasing production of far more advanced systems is out of the question.

though, is that students are willing to risk their mental health, friendships and personal morals to achieve academic perfection.

Football is often seen as a quintessential part of the high school experience in the U.S. Friday night games are a time where the students stand shoulder to shoulder, cheer on their peers and bond over chants for referees who seem to need to get their eyes checked. At our school, however, there is a common theme at most extracurricular events, no matter how successful the team is: a severe lack of attendance.

There is a common thought shared among high achievers at the school: “How will this help me get into college?” This lack of support for the greater student body is not limited to football games; we see similar patterns of mediocre attendance at all student performances.

The small attendance is not surprising –– why would one go to a boys’ soccer game or a student play when they could do their own homework or spend more time on their extracurricular activities? Though these activities might be fun and give students a chance to socialize, they won't contribute to their college ap-

plications or guarantee them an A on their next math test. Students don’t show up for each other because they are too busy showing up for themselves.

This is not a question of Western might, but one of Western will.

This is not a question of Western might, but rather one of Western will. The West has massive latent economic resources, which could be converted into heavy industry to fully supply the Ukrainians. But, this would be enormously costly. Western manufacturers may be the most technologically advanced, but they lack sheer numbers of workers and machine tools to gear up. To solve this problem, Western countries

Students don’t show up for each other because they are too busy showing up for themselves.

Though students might cheat themselves by focusing too much on their own activities, the real selfsabotage takes place with academic dishonesty, which many students feel is necessary in order to be competitive for selective colleges. Students' ethics are tested at a school so challenging that one can prepare for weeks on end and walk out of a test with a B. That is not to say that students at other schools don’t cheat, but the chances of it increase at a school like Harvard-Westlake.

Going to school isn’t just about getting a grade –– it’s about learning how to process information and how the world works. Success comes from fostering a deep under-

would have to do what Russia already has done: shift to a wartime economy and increase arms production. Russia certainly is taking attrition in its forces and continues to invest heavily in rearming, while Ukraine’s NATO suppliers have not.

This is an impossible choice for NATO leadership. While many voters may hang a blue-and-yellow flag on a bulletin board or say they care about Ukraine, there is not really the political willpower or enthusiasm to invest meaningful tax dollars away from local needs in their home economies. The supposedly limitless support of the Ukrainians seen at the outbreak of the war has become increasingly politically untenable, as seen most recently in the U.S. where factions of the Republican Party have blocked further aid. The switch to a wartime economy would be an enormously expensive task, when skilled workers and machine tools are already in short supply, and would be highly unpopular among a population that is already divided. More importantly, gearing up at this scale would be tantamount to declaring war on Russia, a questionable prospect. It is much easier to just continue giving trickling deliveries of haphazard systems to Ukraine, instead.

• Continued on hwchronicle.com standing and love for what one does and learning to propel these interests into something amazing. This does not come from looking up an answer –– it comes from grappling with the material and understanding it, even if this doesn't result in a perfect score. Students chose to attend a school with some of the greatest teachers and learning resources in the nation; the correct way to make use of these opportunities would be to tread down the difficult path that will encourage them to grow.

As difficult as it is to put aside the inherent competition that comes with attending an elite institution, students need to stop approaching their high school experiences as a stepping stone into college and begin seeing it as a chance to grow as individuals. That growth comes with learning to be a good friend and supporting peers, knowing how to read books and not Sparknotes and finding the grit in oneself to persevere. Going to a top 20 university may seem like the end all be all at 17, but taking the time to selfdevelop and learn good working habits will have greater implications on students' lives in the long run.

Dec. 13, 2023

hwchronicle.com/opinion

Accept peers' differing political views

By William Liu

W

ith the countdown to the presidential election ticking away, politics will inevitably be on everyone's mind. Disagreements are inevitable, but whether they're civil discussions that provide insight into nuanced beliefs or hostile mudslinging contests that devolve into personal slander is entirely dependent on us. What usually occurs is neither of these. However much political information is on people's radar, many are too hesitant to even bring it up.

Political debates allow individuals to have their ideas challenged and critiqued by others.

Listening and understanding are central components of classroom discussions, and they’re practiced in most conversations. But when we touch upon politics at school, students are unsure whether their beliefs won't be accepted or will be met with too much controversy. Members of the community avoid anything near politics when conversing

on the Quad because they fear that contradicting viewpoints will devolve into personal insults and accusations. According to a Chronicle poll, 67% of 115 students surveyed said they believed members of the community did not welcome a variety of political opinions. Only 47.8% said they could express their political opinion freely. With only half of the student body comfortable with sharing their opinions, students feel their ideas will be hastily criticized.

As a result, political discourse is either avoided entirely or engaged with shallowly — and when conversations do break out, they leave hard feelings and bitterness behind.

Students need to be more civil and understand each other’s views. In the face of political divisiveness and inevitable disagreement, we can’t surrender to our own beliefs and choose to never be open-minded with others. Whether these conversations take place in our history classrooms, on the Quad or in the real world, discourse is the only

By Erik C. Wade

I

was gone for two weeks.

Many didn’t notice. While away, I rediscovered what I call “the gap” and have consistently been queried about whether my father exists. He does.

I kissed my father’s bald head to make sure. He was a Navy mechanic from 1954, when he left rural Middlesboro, Ky., to escape a coal mining fate and traveled the world until 1975.

I wear his naval tags now because I committed to fight for him. Sadly, he, like so many others, has fallen into the gap.

More on that in a second.

After nearly a decade of estrangement, I became my father’s caregiver following his dementia diagnosis. Police found him roaming dark, morning streets. This wasn’t the first time.

The officers took him to the hospital for safety precautions.

What’s scarier than this is the shift from his home where he was no longer safe into “a system” that makes it challenging to find a new, peaceful place to call home. To avoid the gap.

The gap has at least two meanings. Neither has anything to do with commercial clothing but necessitates a courageous conversation about and a reckoning with capitalism. About how we choose our passions and pursuits and the people they impact. Re-

learning these meanings through the gap is reshaping my life’s purpose. Yet, this phenomenon reinforces how I have known the U.S. for much of my life.

From a gap — successes and all.

The first meaning of the gap defines someone who doesn’t earn enough money to pay directly for quality healthcare.

Or a person that makes (or accrued) too much money to qualify for Medicaid. My dad is wedged between these poles.

He’s also stuck with a family who can’t afford to pay for quality healthcare: retirees on tight budgets, some grappling with health issues; those paying mortgages; or like me, aspiring to have a mortgage to give property to my hypothetical family.

In so many ways, we are each stuck in the gap with my father.

The gap in its second meaning is a place and an idea for most. The Cumberland Gap, bordering rural Virginia, Tennessee and Kentucky, is home to earnest people and gorgeous countryside. Also residing where my dad was born and chose to retire is poverty, a lack of easily accessible healthy food options and a dearth of industries. Those that once afforded consistent living wages like coal mining.

I know places like this because of my mother's home-

STATS AND FACTS

way to test and develop our beliefs. As students become adults, they need to be prepared to defend their stances against various beliefs, knowing how to compromise and argue their proposals into tangible policy. If we continue to dodge conversation, we'll be left entrenched in a nation that's increasingly polarized and unsatisfied.

Moreover, this avoidance of genuine and civil discussion results in many removing themselves from politics altogether. Seniors might find themselves content to cast their ballot based on shallow impressions of political correctness or potentially inaccurate social media stories. With 67% of the student body believing that the community is politically unaware, a disproportionate amount of students do not think we are ready to make informed decisions in politics. With such little sensibility for issues and no deep discussions to foster our thinking skills, we leave ourselves with nothing but an uninformed and disengaged intellect.

Truthfully, politics is deeply personal — it has serious implications on how we identify with ourselves, live our lives freely and care for historically marginalized groups. Those issues will never be addressed if we are too fearful of engaging in conversation, and we can't expect ourselves to genuinely understand the backgrounds behind policies if we don't debate and learn about them. In other words, even if having a political conversation seems personal and potentially offensive, having genuine and productive discourse is necessary to truly create the world we want.

• Continued on hwchronicle.com

The value of recognizing societal gaps town, Eden, N.C. There, FieldCrest and Budweiser moved out.

Though Duke Power remains, allegedly poisoning the water supply with waste, causing cancer. When these industries departed, the rural working-class American Dream went in tow.

The people in these places are real and genuine, and their options, of no fault of their own, having been born and raised in the gap, are often lacking. They are stuck in some ways, too.

Oftentimes, we don’t think of Black people in these gaps.

Or about Black Vietnam veterans who contributed to and benefitted from a middle class economic boom during the 1980s, of which we may never see again. Who left Silicon Valley in its heyday to return home and found themselves stuck in the gap. Their stories are either not told, lost or ignored. Maybe this is a start to reclaim that loss somehow. To tell a story that sticks.

The gap is person-made. It is not a natural occurrence that wreaks havoc on people (though modern abnormal weather activities make me nervous and are person-made, too — I am certain the notion of the gap fits here as well). What I am writing, then, is that if the gap is person-made, there’s something we could do to

Opinion A11

Do you think you can freely express your political opinions at the school?

Yes: 52.2% No: 47.8%

Do you think the school welcomes a variety of political opinions?

Yes: 33.0% No: 67.0%

Do you know what carreer path you want to pursue?

Yes: 38.3% No: 61.7%

*115 students polled

History Teacher Erik C. Wade discussed "the gap" present in American society which he discovered after reconnecting with his father following years of estrangement. face it head on if we so choose.

Black activist-poet Gil Scott-Heron remarked in an oft-quoted poem of the same name that, “The Revolution Will Not be Televised” (1970).

This line is uttered so frequently but misses the essential point he makes near its end: “The revolution will put you in the driver’s seat.” My revolution is to resolve the gap in my father’s life — that is, if it doesn’t swallow him first. I plan to summon the energy thereafter to address the gap, however it manifests, in other people’s lives.

Maybe you could do the same.

For what I know is that to be seen by someone, to see them, is a revolutionary act, a choice.

We could choose to reckon with the gap that someone faces. I imagine, for instance, many unhoused people faced what my father currently finds in front of him. What I find in front of me.

To commit to something bigger than yourself addresses the gap. Gets you in the driver’s seat. You are needed for grander purposes more than you currently know. Hopefully, we as adults prepare you, our students, for such revolutionary choices. That’s my hope and my ask.

ILLUSTRATIONS BY ANNABELLE CHEUNG

Community The Chronicle • Dec. 13, 2023

Looking for holiday-themed beverages and snacks?

According to our staff, Studio City has them. Here are reviews of four of them just in time for winter.

By Colin Ho If you’re still longing for fall flavors during the Christmas season, you can head over to Erewhon’s Sportsmen’s Lodge location for their “Perfect Pumpkin Crumble” drink. Unfortunately, it falls short of its competitors in terms of taste and texture, especially considering its $17 price tag.

After you take your first sip, you are immediately overwhelmed with a strong, natural pumpkin flavor. Rather than tasting like a comforting and warm autumnal beverage, it’s as if someone just carved a pumpkin, blended the insides and poured it into an Erewhon cup.

However, the drink is topped with a pie graham cracker crumble with vegan granola, which does add a nice crunch to your sip. The crumble has a classic cinnamon flavor and dresses the top of the drink nicely. All things considered, the crumble is one of the better parts of the drink, seeing as the liquid portion could best be described as sour and earthy.

The drink boasts special health supplements such as tocos, which contains high levels of Vitamin E and is said to be beneficial for your skin, according to

yoursuper.com. It is served with smears of sweet organic coconut cream on the side of the cup, but it does little to counteract the overpowering pumpkin flavor and bitter aftertaste. Nevertheless, the coconut cream itself is not overly sweet and has a rich texture, a nice touch to an underwhelming drink.

If you’re trying to achieve the most Instagram-worthy beverage photo, this is not the drink to order. Its orange-y brown color gives off a dirt-esque vibe that makes the drink seem more organic than you bargained for. That being said, this pumpkin spice drink is made with all organic ingredients, an expected feature for Erewhon’s pricey smoothies, such as almond milk, pumpkin puree, sweet potatoes and coconut meat. Even so, if you really wanted to be healthy, you could just drink water, instead of paying $17 for this.

If you are looking for a fall drink, I would certainly not recommend the not-so “Perfect Pumpkin Crumble” unless you like the taste of mulch. I would advise those looking for a dependable and tasty drink to save your money and head to one of Studio City’s nearby coffee shops instead.

JAYAN KANDAVEL/CHRONICLE

GRANT PARK/CHRONICLE

After inquiring about the “best hot chocolate in Studio City” on Google, I was surprised to see Fatamorgana Gelato appear on numerous lists. Though it was an ice cream place, the Yelp image of the hot cocoa made me salivate. Creamy milk, rich chocolate, fluffy marshmallows and red sprinkles appeared to overflow out of a classy glass mug. Naturally, I walked in expecting to be inundated with the sensations of Christmas: glistening holiday lights, the smell of fallen pine needles and the warming sound of “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.”

Instead, I spotted a plastic pumpkin, an indication of the store’s lackluster efforts to spread the holiday spirit to the Studio City community. The shop had an overwhelming chemical smell, but nevertheless, I persisted.

Watching the barista whisk freshly steamed milk into the melted chocolate made me giddy. Indeed, this was not your average powdered Swiss Miss “hot chocolate” concoction.

Upon actually receiving the beverage, however, I was terribly and utterly

disappointed at the mediocrity. I had been catfished by an anonymous Yelp user: the foam was grainy, the liquid was thin, the taste was artificially sweet and indeed, there were no marshmallows or sprinkles to be found.

I felt dejected, but it was too early to throw in the towel on my journey. I trekked nearly 250 feet to Blue Bottle, and once again ordered a hot chocolate with oatmilk.

My disappointment was immeasurable. Hot chocolate is not supposed to be healthy.

I tossed my Blue Bottle drink away, slugging my original drink from Fatamorgana Gelato to try and rid my mouth of the organic taste. And that’s when it hit me: my original hot cocoa was delightful, and I had been overlooking its true value the whole time.

While my hot chocolate tasting experience was less than ideal, I am grateful for the important life lesson I learned that I will keep in the back of my mind as my high school experience nears its end. Appreciate what you have while you still have it, because one day you won’t.

By Ella Yadegar

By Alex Reisner Are you looking for delicious drinks for the holiday season? Stop by Alfred Coffee for the best hot chocolate and holiday drinks in the Valley.

The location on Coldwater Canyon Avenue and Ventura Boulevard and its close proximity to the school allows for an ideal place to grab a quick drink from the new holiday selection before or after school.

Alfred Coffee’s hot chocolate is the perfect harmony of flavors to create a superior drink. It is crafted to excellence and each sip unveils a decadent blend of smooth chocolate mixed with frothy milk. Their hot chocolate is the perfect balance of sweetness and smoothness.

This drink is a great way to warm you up on a cold winters day. They even offer a mint mocha as a part of their holiday drink menu. This drink is a mix of Alfred’s homemade organic peppermint syrup, dark cocoa mocha and any choice of milk. The mint mocha hot chocolate is the ideal mix of a minty flavor with creamy chocolate and encapsulates the spirit of the holiday season, keeping you warm throughout the cold morning be-

fore the school day.

Alfred Coffee also offers many delightful holiday flavors for a limited time. This includes Mint Cocoa Cold Foam, which is a whipped-up peppermint syrup with any choice of milk.

This topping is a delicious addition to any iced coffee. They also have Mint Mocha, a blend of dark cocoa mocha and peppermint syrup with a double shot of espresso. Their famous Oatnog latte has returned for the holidays as well. This drink is crafted from creamy oat and cashew milk blend mixed with delectable eggnog spices, topped off with a double shot of espresso. These new drinks are a great way to enjoy this holiday season.

Prefect Council has even provided a discount at Alfred Coffee. You can enjoy a 15% discount on your drink through Dec. 31 by showing your school ID to the cashier. This allows for great savings and becomes a more affordable option for the holiday season.

You can’t miss out this year on Alfred’s seasonal drink menu. With so many delicious drinks and affordable prices, it is truly the perfect place to spend your holiday season.

JAYAN KANDAVEL/CHRONICLE

JAYAN KANDAVEL/CHRONICLE

Starbucks is the definition of an oldie but a goodie. Only a three minute walk from campus, Starbucks once again has returned with new seasonal drinks. For this year’s holiday season, Starbucks is refreshing the menu with some new sips. The brand-new Iced Gingerbread Oatmilk Chai features a warm blend of cinnamon, ginger and black tea. The seasonal menu continues with the Oleato Gingerbread Oat Milk Latte, which is arabica coffee mixed with cold-pressed Partanna extra-virgin olive oil. As the first of the Oleato holiday drinks, the Oleato Latte features a blond espresso roast with a blend of Partanna olive oil, steamed oat milk and hints of gingerbread. To finish it off, the latte is topped with a sprinkle of ginger citrus to accentuate the holiday flavor.

Of course, beloved drinks are returning as well. If you’re still wondering what to try out, start with the Peppermint Mocha.

Back for the sixth year, it was first introduced in 2017 and is a reigning favorite.

Made with espresso, mocha sauce, milk and peppermint syrup, it also comes with whipped cream and dark chocolate curls

on top. Available in iced, hot or Frappuccino form, this drink is open to all kinds of customizations. The mocha sauce blends in perfectly with the mint, making the drink refreshing.

In addition, the Iced Sugar Cookie Almond Milk Latte is also returning. The drink is made with almond milk, sugar-cookie-flavored syrup, blonde espresso and red and green sprinkles on top.

It tastes just like a golden cookie, with a buttery and sweet undertone with little almond taste. The returning Caramel Brûlée latte is my personal favorite with a blend of espresso, steamed milk, caramel brûlée sauce and topped off with whipped creme and caramel brûlée bits. It is a rush of sweetness if you have a sweet tooth.

The Chestnut Praline Latte finishes off the list with its mix of espresso, steamed milk of choice and chestnut praline syrup.

This drink is topped off with spiced praline crumbs and whipped cream. Unlike the Caramel Brûlée, this latte is not very sweet and allows the chestnut flavor to come through. It is a comforting taste and perfect if you are looking for a cozy drink.

Along with drinks, there are holiday food items as well.

By Celine Wang

ILLUSTRATIONS BY MEJO LIAO AND JUANA MARKMAN

Features The Chronicle • Dec. 13, 2023

ILLUSTR ATION BY ALEX ANDR A LIU

• Continued on B2

B2 Features

The Chronicle

By Zoe Goor

Students reflect on the culture of substance use in the school community.

ILLUSTRATIONS BY IRIS CHUNG

A fluffy brown chick stands alone on a sandy beach. The calm British voice of natural historian David Attenborough reverberates out of the laptop’s speakers, and the students clustered around it draw closer: “This chick, six weeks old, will become a supreme long-distance traveler.” This is not a science class. This is a group of friends enjoying a nature documentary during a free period in the lounge while high on weed.

Albert*, one of the nature documentary watchers, said he and his friends get high at school regularly.

“Imagine this,” Albert said. “We go to In-N-Out for lunch and then [in the] car ride over [and] inside the In-N-Out, [we are] just tapping the f**k out of a pen. Then [we] get back to school, open up Our Planet II [and] give it a nice little watch. I’m just sitting there, really taking in nature.”

Because Albert’s free period is after lunch, he only has one more class left in the day. Albert said the effects of the marijuana mostly wear off before class starts.

“When I have class, I don’t get that high,” Albert said. “If I’m going to class, I’m always basically sober.”

Cannabis, also known colloquially as marijuana or weed, in addition to alcohol and nicotine, is the most prevalent drug among secondary school students and has been for nearly half a century, according to the Monitoring the Future Study, which tracks drug use among adolescents. Although the percentage of students who say marijuana is easily accessible has fallen significantly since 2020, the survey shows that 70% feel marijuana is obtainable.

Alana* said she smokes weed about two times a month. Alana said she uses cannabis because it casts the things she sees around her in a new light.

“You feel things on a deeper and more beautiful level,” Alana said. “I’ll be with friends, I’ll be high and [I’m] like, ‘I love you so much.’ It heightens everything and makes it so beautiful. It makes you really appreciate life. Obviously there [are] ways to appreciate life beyond being high.”

California was the fifth state to legalize recreational marijuana. Los Angeles (LA) has 238 approved cannabis dispensaries, according to the LA Department of Cannabis Regulation. Keri*, another student, said she thinks this atmosphere of marijuana use contributes to its popularity among students.

“The weed market is very concentrated in LA,” Keri said. “There’s a lot of different options and ways to go about getting weed. I also think it’s definitely a drug that isn’t as harmful as other drugs. It [is] easy to get, makes for a fun time and is more socially acceptable. It’s not every day that you see people snorting coke at parties, but I do see a couple people smoking joints. I think it’s [been] more popularized in the last few years especially because legalization made it a drug that was more attainable.”

Alana said the first time she used marijuana was with her older cousin.

“I took like two hits of her stiizzy and then coughed,” Alana said. “I took bad hits because I didn’t know how to smoke, and I coughed a bunch. My throat really hurt,

and I was convinced that I was overdosing on fentanyl and had a panic attack. Then, [my cousin] put on baby sensory videos, and I was fine.”

Fentanyl, a highly potent opioid, and other synthetic opioids are now the main driver of overdose-related deaths, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse.

Larissa Mooney, an addiction psychiatrist on the faculty of the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) said the opioid crisis and increased societal focus on fentanyl have resulted in shifts in trends around drug usage.

“We do know that when individuals perceive more risk or harm from use of a certain substance, they are more likely to avoid it,” Mooney said. “[That] doesn’t mean that rate goes down to zero, but there is much more media attention and public health awareness now around the dangers of opioids, fentanyl and even just using a pill that might have been prescribed for a medical cause. [There is more awareness] that there could be risk and that [that] pill may not contain what you think is in that pill.”

A commonly abused pill is Concerta, a prescription stimulant commonly used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. For brandname Concerta, one 36 mg tablet costs about $16.50 without insurance, according to GoodRX.com.

Before Thanksgiving break, Elaine*, a student who takes prescribed Concerta for her ADHD, said a friend offered her $100 for a single pill. Although Concerta and Adderall, another common ADHD prescription medication, are different drugs, Elaine said most people refer to the medication she takes as Adderall because they do not know the difference between the two stimulants. Prescription stimulants for ADHD are commonly abused for their effects, according to American Addiction Centers.

Elaine said although she is approached about selling her medication multiple times a week, usually by the same people, she would never sell a pill.

“I would never in a million years sell [my prescription],” she said. “I don’t want to be responsible for [someone] being hurt in any sort of way. Also, I don’t think it is morally correct to give someone drugs.”

Elaine said she thinks other students want to buy Concerta from her because of the rigorous school atmosphere and their perceptions of the stimulant’s potential positive impacts on their ability to focus.

“Think about the environment that we’re in,” Elaine said. “We’re expected to have great grades and keep up. I definitely don’t think I’d be able to work without [Concerta] just because I can’t concentrate. If kids had access to that, especially when they [don’t] need it, they would be addicted.”

Despite her personal experiences with Concerta, Elaine said she thinks weed is a far more common drug for students to use.

“Weed is something that is more accessible for kids,” Elaine said. “I don’t think they’re trying to get it through a friend because they’re going to a dispensary. I feel like [marijuana] is easier to get because it is not their own prescription. I think drugs

Dec. 13, 2023

like Adderall and anything you have to get over the counter are harder to access without being laced.”

Keri said she thinks concerns about fentanyl and laced drugs have resulted in more students purchasing their marijuana at dispensaries, rather than from suspicious sellers who could lace it.

“A lot of people have fake IDs and just go to dispensaries and, at the majority of them, the fake ID will scan and let you in,” Keri said. “Less people are getting [drugs] from drug dealers. I don’t really see that being a thing. Because also with [the dangers of] fentanyl, people are just wanting to be as safe as possible, even if that means getting a fake ID and risking getting in trouble for that.”

Although marijuana use among secondary school students increased in 2022, it remained far below pre-pandemic levels.

For amphetamines, like Adderall and Ritalin, and other prescription drugs, prevalence of student abuse has been declining since 2005. However, use of hallucinogens among 12th grade students is now the same as it was before COVID, according to the Monitoring the Future survey.

Felix*, a student who has smoked weed since seventh grade and used the hallucinogens psilocybin and salvia, said he noticed a stark difference in himself after trying magic mushrooms for the first time.

“It was kind of eye opening,” Felix said. “I know when we talk about drugs like that a lot of people just assume it’s bulls**t, but I went through a really dark period of my life, and I took mushrooms, and I kind of [went] down a better path.”

Felix has now taken psilocybin nine or 10 times but has only taken salvia, a more intense psychedelic than magic mushrooms, one time. While high on salvia, Felix said he felt like he had been transported to another world. “​​ I watch Midnight Gospel, a podcast show where they animate the podcast [with] silly cartoons, and they were talking about salvia,” Felix said. “I was like, ‘That sounds gnarly. I want to try it.’

I found out that it’s legal in California.

Within 20 minutes, [I] drove down to a smoke shop and bought some and did it, and it was insane.”

Felix said that while he would like to do salvia again, he has not yet because he is aware of the potentially damaging effects of intense psychedelics. He said he used his fake ID to purchase the salvia, and he obtained the magic mushrooms from a dealer.

“My plug is a friend of mine, and gets all their stuff [or] grows their own stuff,” Felix said. “I trust that person, so I wouldn’t ever be worried about [lacing], but obviously if I go to a different plug, I’ll be skeptical. I always ask around and make sure that multiple people have bought from one plug [and have] gotten good [stuff] from them. [I am] just doing my research.”

Felix said he is unable to describe the experience he had while under the influence of the psychedelics.

“To my friends, I was passed out on in my chair, but in my head, I was literally living another life,” Felix said. *Name has been changed.

Dec. 13, 2023

hwchronicle.com/features

Features B3

Students with multiple unique heritages reflect on how being multiracial affects their family’s holiday celebrations and traditions.

By Alex Dinh

then people expect you to act a certain way with white people,” Kadribegovic It is testing day for third graders said. “For me, since I’m racially ambigin California. Micah Parr ’25 sits in uous, people will tell me when I’m with a classroom full of students as he pre- my mom, I look exactly like her. Then, pares to take the Educational Records when I’m with my dad, people will say Bureau (ERB) test. Before the exam [I] look exactly like [my] dad. People begins, he fills out the personal in- expect me to act more white when I’m formation section of the test. Despite with my dad and more Indian when being part white, Asian and Black, I’m with my mom.”

However, for others in the multiraParr said he did not think twice about his answer to the question: “What is cial community, the holidays can be a your race?” Parr said growing up, he time to form deeper connections with never embraced the different parts of their family. Nilufer Mistry Sheasby ’24 said opening up to her family about her his identity.

“There [have] been times where I identity struggles relieved a lot of the [didn’t] feel like part of one race at disconnect that she felt.

“I’ve always been aware that my all,” Parr said. “When I was younger, mom’s side of the fambecause I was darkily is fully Parsi and I’m er, I just thought of myself as Black. I The couple times mixed,” Mistry Sheasby said. “Two years ago, did not see myself that one of the days of around the holidays, I as Asian [or] white. decided to read them Hanukkah has fallen I just saw myself as something that I wrote Black because that’s on Christmas, it’s been about being mixed. I’d what I was told to fun to celebrate both been thinking about my see. When I filled identity and struggling holidays at one time.” out the standardized testing papers, we - Ava Hakakah ’25 with it for some time, but I never mentioned would only [select] it because I didn’t think one race. I would my family would really understand. I think, ‘Okay, I’m just Black.’”

The multiracial population in the also didn’t want to bring something U.S. has increased by 276% from up have I was already worried nine million people in 2010 to 33.8 was a point of separation or million people, 10.2% of the coun- distinction between me and try’s population, in 2020, as per the the people I loved. For me, latest census. At the school, 18% of after I expressed myself, any the student body identifies as multi- anxiety I felt about how this racial, according to Assistant Head of might change or alter my School for Community and Belong- relationship with my family completely dissipated. ing Janine Jones.

For many in the school commu- What matters is that we nity, the holiday season gives them a care about each othchance to celebrate and spend more er and will always time with their families. However, honor experiences these celebrations can offer a unique that matter to any set of challenges for the multiracial one of us, even if population. Sarah Parmet ’25, who we don’t always is part Korean and part white, grew understand or up in Hong Kong, and as a result, share them.”

L i k e w is e , is fluent in Mandarin but not Korean. Parmet said it can be difficult to Parr said connect with her grandparents and spending her Korean heritage because she feels time with more Chinese than Korean.

“My grandparents speak English, but there still is a barrier,” Parmet said.

“It’s difficult because they wish I knew how to speak Korean, and I also wish I knew how to speak Korean. Then, I could better communicate with them.

I feel disconnected from the Korean part of my heritage. In a way, I feel more Chinese than I feel Korean, even though I’m not Chinese.”

Similar to Parmet, Riyan Kadribegovic ’25, who is part Indian and part white, said being half Indian sometimes makes it difficult to connect with her Indian heritage.

“My grandparents and uncle on my mom’s side are all in India, so we generally go every other year,” Kadribegovic said. “Being half Indian makes it harder for me to connect with some full Indian people because sometimes I feel that I don’t know as much of the culture as they do, or that I’m not as involved as I could be.”

Kadribegovic said she feels pressure to conform to a different set of cultural standards depending on the side of the family she is with.

“Being mixed is interesting because people expect you to act a certain way when you’re with Indian people, and

“

his family has helped him feel more super devout Catholic, we love celeconnected to his identity. brating. Usually, our traditions end “I used to not feel connected to my up being a weird fusion. For example, Japanese and Jamaican culture,” Parr my dad will make gingerbread cooksaid. “I’ve been slowly learning more ies for one course, and my grandand more about my cultures by con- mother will make tandoori chicken necting with my family and asking for the other course.” questions. That is how I’ve been able In addition to many students beto grow and start to feel more in touch ing multiracial, many also celebrate with my different cultures.” multiple winter holidays. For examAva Hakakah ’25, who is part Per- ple, Hakakha has celebrated both Hasian and part white, said she noticed nukkah and Christmas, ever since her that there are a lot of cultural differ- mom converted back to Catholicism. ences between her parents.

Since Hanukkah and Christmas ar“Being mixed is really interesting, en’t determined by the same calendar, especially when you have divorced they do not always coincide. Hakaparents, because there are different kah said she appreciates being able to cultures in different households,” celebrate both when Hanukkah and Hakakah said. “At my dad’s house- Christmas overlap. hold, especially because he’s Middle “The couple of times that one of Eastern, he’s really family-oriented. the days of Hanukkah has fallen on [During] the holiday season, that Christmas, it’s been fun to celebrate [value] comes out, and it becomes a both holidays at one time,” Hakakah main priority in our household. We said. “I spend the morning with my always have family over, and we’re al- mom, opening gifts and listening to ways spending time with each other. Christmas music. Then, I spend the On my mom’s side, even though we love evening with my dad, lighting the our family, we’re not as close together, so menorah and playing dreidel.” that’s felt more around the holBoth Hanukkah and idays. My mom’s side doesn’t Christmas have been celehave the same kind of commubrated for over one thousand nity that is prioritized in Midyears with drastically differdle Eastern culture.” ent religious messages. Over Beyond Mistry time, both holidays have Sheasby’s parents’ evolved to represent much ethnic differences, broader messages. Hakakah her dad is Catholic, said she enjoys celebrating and her mom is both holidays because they L. Wood Zoroastrian. Misspread a positive message and Micah try Sheasby said her create more time with family.

Parr ’25 family’s holiday “Both holidays have the celebrations honor a combi- same message,” Hakakah said. “For nation of different cultures me, Christmas is about spreading and religions. the message of joy and kindness, and “I love that it is not Hanukkah has been transformed to as much religiously spread the same message of holiday mixed as it is cultur- joy and family togetherness. Both ally mixed,” Mis- holidays allow me to spend more try Sheasby said. time with my family, and they’re both “Even though fun to celebrate.”

Zoroastrians Kadribegovic said her family celdon’t celebrate ebrates Christmas, despite following Christmas, Zoroastrianism as opposed to any and my form of Christianity. She said she sees dad isn’t a celebrating Christmas more as part of being an American rather than as part of a religion.

“Christmas is becoming more of a secular holiday,” Kadribegovic said. “It’s a national holiday. People get the day off, and it’s recognized as something prevalent in America, even though there isn’t a national religion.

We feel like celebrating Christmas is more of an American thing to do rather than a Christian thing. Since both of my parents immigrated to America and are now American citizens, it felt like a thing that we had to do to show that we’re American.”

Mistry Sheasby said the holidays are more about the ideals behind them as opposed to the actual traditions in America.

“I love that my family has been able to take something that’s culturally American, and not really ours, and make it into a celebration of family,” Mistry Sheasby. “It’s reflective of how in this particular country, concrete traditions matter less than the aspirations and values behind them.

Anyone, regardless of religious background or nationality, can celebrate the holidays in this country because it’s about caring for other people and love between families.”

ILLUSTRATIONS BY SABRINA SIMEK

The Chronicle

B4 Features

Dreading Members of the community discuss the emotional pressure connected with the release of early decision results and the differences in applying regular decision.

By Alden Detmer and Hannah Shahidi

into your ED hits so hard for people because this could be the end, and you’re almost at the point where you Walking onto the Quad on a De- need it to be over so badly. After I cember morning, Ava Weinrot ’23 didn’t get in, I was upset that I wasn’t could feel the tension among her done yet. If you really love a school, classmates. It was the day her early go ahead and apply early to it, but decision (ED) result would come out. don’t forget the fact that EDing is . Only two days away from winter not the only option.”

According to a Chronicle Poll of break, many seniors would be hearing back from colleges. In less than 111 students, only 50% of seniors twelve hours, Weinrot would be sitting feel like their teachers understand in front of her laptop, refreshing the the specific timeline of the college screen as she awaited her decision from process. Weinrot said her teachers the University of Pennsylvania. But did not acknowledge the tension surfor now, she headed to her first class. rounding ED decisions.

“Most of my teachers had no idea Weinrot said many seniors feel stressed that decisions were coming out that about getting into their ED school.

“Everyone was stressed about deci- day [nor] did they acknowledge it,” sions that day,” Weinrot said. “It was Weinrot said. “As much as they’re somewhat helpful because I was like, aware of the process going on for the ‘I’m not the only one going through seniors, they’re not as attuned to it as this.’ But at the same time, it didn’t you would think. I honestly liked that help to calm me down. A few of my they treated it as a normal day beclose friends’ decisions weren’t com- cause I didn’t want to have to think ing out the same day, so that was nice about it more than I already was. because they were a bit calmer. But Having my classes feel normal was you could definitely feel a lot of stress helpful in terms of trying to take my and tension at school among the se- mind off of it.”

In recent years, it has become comniors. In the moment, it feels like the stakes are so high when in reali- mon for students across the nation to ty, they’re actually not. Everyone feels film their reactions to opening their like they’re competing against each decisions and post them on social media, according to the Washington Post. other.”

Weinrot said she wanted Weinrot reto keep her results relaceived her decision on ThursI will probably fail tively private, only sharing them with her family day, Dec. 15, to eat breakfast because of and friends.

2022, around didn’t want to open the same time the stress. My notes will end my“Idecision with other that all eight people,” Weinrot said. “I Ivy League up covered in calligraphy. know people who open schools notified —Cayley theirs at school, but I their applicants.

Weinrot said Tolbert-Schwartz ’24 was absolutely not going to do that. Mine was she was uncoming out later in the able to take her mind off of the decision in the days day anyway, so I was able to go home which was nice. I originally didn’t leading up to it.

“For that whole week, the decision want to open it with other people, is all you’re thinking about,” Weinrot but I ended up opening it with my said. “The way that everyone frames parents. Later, I talked to my friends it and even the way that the deans about the whole situation. It wasn’t a frame it is that so much hangs in the fun day.”

Last year, there was an increase in balance with regards to this one decision. The collective mentality, that the number of reported absences for this holds so much weight in terms seniors the day after receiving deciof how the rest of your life is going sions, according to Student Disto play out, makes it hard to distract cipline and Attendance Coordinator Gabriel Preciado. Weinrot yourself.”

Since ED agreements between stu- said although she did not want dents and colleges are binding, when to go to school that morning, she a senior is accepted, they are required was glad that she got to be around to withdraw all other applications. her friends.

“When I woke up on Friday Weinrot said part of the stress surrounding ED decisions can be at- morning, I didn’t really want to tributed to the desire to be done with go to school,” Weinrot said.”But I also didn’t want to be that perapplications.

“Part of the stress comes from son who got rejected from a colwanting to be done [with the appli- lege and then didn’t go to school cation process],” Weinrot said. “I because they were so consumed didn’t want to have to spend my win- by that fact that they couldn’t ter break working on applications. It’s show their face at school the next really not fun. That’s why not getting day. The day was a little brutal

“

because everyone was talking about it. I think Stanford was coming out that night, so there were a bunch of more people who were stressed. Obviously, I was not happy, so being at school was a bit of an inconvenience, but at the same time, it was nice to be around my friends. I definitely wouldn’t have opened my laptop and started more applications if I had skipped school.”

Weinrot said many of her peers were surprised that she attended school the next day.

“Some people did say to me, like, ‘Oh my God, I can’t believe you came,’” Weinrot said. “But as opposed to what? Sitting at home by myself

and being sad? It’s very weird because you go to school the next day, and 50% of these people are absolutely overjoyed, and then

Dec. 13

3, 2023

hwchronicle.com/features

Features B5

Decision Day

50% of the people are devastated. It’s a polar opposite experience for everyone.”

When ED decisions are released in December, sophomores have not officially started the college process. However, Cayley Tolbert-Shwartz ’24 said when she was a sophomore, her brother, Everett Tolbert-Schwartz ’22, was in the midst of the ED process and could notice the tension between students on decision day.

“Every year, you walk into school, and the Quad is noticeably quieter,” Cayley Tolbert-Schwartz said. “[ED] day was the quietest I’d ever heard it when I was a sophomore. I had a brother applying that year, so I was personally invested. As a junior, I knew more about the process, and I knew more people who were applying.”

Everett Tolbert-Schwartz currently attends Yale University where he was accepted during the ED round of decisions. Cayley Tolbert-Schwartz said she still remembers her brother’s exact reaction to his acceptance.

“Did you get in?’” Cayley Tolbert-Schwartz said. “He just [looked] at me like his soul was just crushed. I was like, ‘What happened?’ He’s like,

‘I got in, but today was so stressful.’

I think the waiting had just hollowed his soul out. He was in complete shock. When we got home, he calmed down, and then he was happy for the rest of winter break.”

Typically, colleges release ED decisions to applicants sometime in the afternoon. Each school is different, but many will send their applicants an email, informing them that there is an update on their application, according to the College Board. Cayley Tolbert-Schwartz said she expects to be anxious throughout the day until she receives her decision.

“When I wake up, I’m gonna check my email, even though I know it won’t be out yet,” Cayley Tolbert-Schwartz said.

“Then, I probably will fail to eat breakfast because of the stress. I’ll listen to music in the car so that I don’t have to pay attention to anything going on. In the morning, I’m gonna get on the Quad, and I’m gonna go find my friends, and I’m going to be like, ‘I can’t do this anymore.’ I’m not going to pay attention [in class] at all.

My notes will end up covered in random calligraphy because that’s what I do when I’m stressed.”

The school that Cayley Tolbert-Schwartz applied ED to has already announced the date they will be releasing decisions: the Friday before winter break. Cayley Tolbert-Schwartz said she has a plan for how she will open her result and what she will do after.

“On December 15th, Friday, after school, it will probably come out during improv,” Cayley Tolbert-Schwartz said. “Once I see the email, I’m going to step outside and go to this little spot halfway down the stairs from the Drama Lab to Weiler.

I’ll just sit there and open it and then if I don’t get in, I’ll probably just leave school and go straight home. But if I get in, I’ll come back and do the rest of improv with a very restrained smile on my face.”

While early application deadlines for most schools are in early to mid-November, most regular applications are due throughout January, according to Coursera. Cayley Tolbert-Schwartz said she will spend her winter break working on applications if she is not accepted into her ED school.

“If I get accepted, I’m gonna go visit my grandparents who live in Colorado,” Cayley Tolbert-Schwartz said. “I’m gonna go skiing, and we’re gonna go shopping. They have this little mall called the Pearl Street Mall,

and it’s the cutest thing ever. If I don’t have financial responsibilities to fulfill, get in, I will be locking myself in my the cost of a school should not limit a room and writing college apps for two student’s potential. weeks straight.”

“Colleges at the end of the day must After Weinrot was rejected from operate like a business,” DeAngelis the University of Pennsylvania, she said. “They have a bottom line to meet spent her winter break writing essays because they have to pay hundreds or and perfecting her applications. With thousands of faculty and staff, build worries about not being accepted to dozens of new fancy facilities and supschools in the spring, Weinrot said port scholarship and research. ED alshe applied to many schools that she lows a college to secure ‘no-need,’ tuwasn’t interested in. ition paying families to support their “I had worked on a lot of essays bottom line. I was a full financial aid over the summer, but I went back to recipient in college, and I knew that my my applications and tweaked a little college needed other people to pay in bit of the storyline,” Weinrot said. “I order to support my need for full aid. also somewhat panicked [and] added I always advise that if financial aid is a bunch of schools to my list which I going to be a factor in your process, don’t recommend doing. I remember you should complete the online finanmeeting with my dean the day after cial aid calculators to determine if the my decision came out, and I decided projected aid you get matches up with I was just gonna add all these schools what your family expectations are.” because I needed to get into college.

In 2018, a survey by the College One was Cornell which I didn’t want Board and Seventeen magazine found to go at all. I [don’t] know why I wrote that 70% of high school students were a 650 word essay for it, but I felt like I stressed about the college process. Sara had to just because I was in this man- Segil ’25 said social media contributes ic state. I ended up applying to 22 to the high stress environment at the schools, so I had a lot of school concerning ED decisions. writing to do over break.

“Posting on Instagram for your I know that happens for friends’ acceptances just emphaa lot of people, but it is sizes the super competitive culture what it is.” we have here,” Segil said. “Looking When students are as a viewer, when someone posts, rejected from their they’re making a spectacle out of it.

ED schools, their dean Obviously, getting into any school works with them to deis a great accomplishment, but it velop a plan for their could make other people feel bad L. Wood regular applications. If and cause tension.”

Ava a student is deferred, Some students list the college Weinrot ’23 their dean will help name in their Instagram bio afthem improve their apter receiving their decision. Segil plication for regular decision. Upper said though she thinks seniors should School Dean Erik DeAngelis said the refrain from posting on their stories, deans are prepared to help students listing a school in their bio is less navigate the regular decision process harmful. if they are deferred.

“Since there’s still so much uncer“There’s a set of standard practic- tainty, people should try and keep it es most colleges expect from students more to themselves,” Segil said. “No [that are] deferred: write a letter of one wants to see an Instagram story continued interest, submit mid-year of someone else going to your dream grades and update the admission of- school 15 minutes after you were refice on any major accomplishments jected. Putting it in your bio is okay since you initially applied,” DeAnge- because it’s less in your face, but I lis said. “By the time a student finds think everyone could just be more out [that] they’re deferred, we’ve typ- considerate.” ically talked about a backup plan, so Weinrot is now a freshman at a student can pivot relatively quickly Dartmouth College. Weinrot said she to ED2 or regular decision. That’s is grateful for how the process turned our job as deans to counsel and advise out because she ended up at the right students and their families based on place for herself. our own experiences, access to good “I could not imagine going to information and lean on professional the school that I applied early to,” relationships with the colleges.”

Weinrot said. “I would hate it. I When applying ED to a school, stu- have friends who go there and are dents are unable to compare financial so happy, but I don’t think I would aid offers from a variety of schools. have a good experience. I’m exThough being unable to afford the tremely grateful, in retrospect, for school is one of the few reasons stu- the way that my process worked dents can back out of an ED offer out. I love where I ended up, and without a penalty, there is still a risk of it really does work out for everyone. being unable to afford college, accord- For the most part, when a school ing to U.S. News and World Report. doesn’t work out, you weren’t meant DeAngelis said though colleges do to go there.”

ILLUSTRATIONS BY EVA PARK

B6 Features

The Chronicle

Dec. 13, 2023

Watching the Scale Students and counselors discuss the causes and effects of body image and the rise in popularity of weight loss drugs.

By MeJo Liao Touching up her makeup, 16-year-old Liya* stepped back from the mirror and smiled at her own reflection. Out of options following years of failed diets and workouts, she turned to the weight loss drug Wegovy a year ago, and has since lost over thirty pounds. She said this night was the first party she had gone to in a while, and she was beyond excited.

“Taking [Wegovy] seemed like the most logical choice to make for me at the time,” Liya said. “Nothing was working for me, and I was beginning to lose hope.

I was desperate and really just felt horrible about my body. My confidence was at an all-time-low, so much that I even stopped hanging out as much as I used to. I talked about it with my parents, and they agreed to let me give this a shot.”

Wegovy, a drug similar to Ozempic, works slowly to make sure the user feels less hunger and full faster, resulting in weight loss. The medication, which is given through pre-filled injection pens on a weekly basis, comes with side effects like nausea, heartburn and fatigue, and rarely gallstones or acute pancreatitis, according to the Wegovy website.

Weight loss drugs have proven to be remarkably effective and has grown in popularity, with the number of prescriptions in the U.S. skyrocketing from none in 2018 to almost 3 million in 2023 for Wegovy and just over 2 million for Ozempic, according to Symphony Health.

The National Institute of Health (NIH) defines body image as the subjective picture of individuals of their own body, irrespective of how their body actually looks.

Upper School Psychologist Emily Joyner said body image encapsulates a universal experience of having mental distortions on how one views themself as a result of external experiences. “[Body image] is often developed through relationships with other people, or messages that we get about our bodies, [and] it builds on itself,” Joyner said. “Bodies in general, [and] the fact that we all have them, can be this very loaded topic. Often, we will learn about ourselves through other people almost like mirrors that we see. [Ideas about body image] start when we're so young that we don't even realize it affects us. We see our parents or a friend comment ‘I’m so fat,’ and it continues through our lifetimes.”

Negative body image has become incredibly prevalent in adolescents and adults. By the age of 13, 53 percent of American girls are unhappy with their bodies, and this number grows to 78 percent by the time they reach 17, according to the National Organization of Women (NOH). The same study reported that 66 percent of girls expressed the desire to lose weight, according to the NOH. Liya said the lack of representation on social media contributed to her negative body image.

“When I scroll through TikTok, I

often see these gorgeous, thin girls who look so different from me,” Liya said.

“And I know objectively they’re using touch-ups, but it still has an effect on me in the back of my mind. I would also see these transition videos where people ‘glowed-up’ by becoming thinner. I had tried to lose weight through so many different methods and none of them worked, so seeing it work for them and not me was incredibly discouraging. It got so bad that I had to delete the app for a while even after I started on weight loss drugs to get my mental health back on track.”

Teenagers who reduced their smartphone usage by 50 percent saw significant decreases in their concerns about their weight, according to the American Psychology Association (APA).

Joyner said that judging individuals' bodies and attractiveness based on their online presence can be detrimental to teenagers' body image.

“The images that we see all the time through social media are playing a significant role,” Joyner said. “There [are] particular standards of attractiveness, particular standards of what's acceptable [and] what's not, and that's often what we see on these apps. There are trends of taking a camera, moving back from it and trying to see what others see. It’s disturbing because we can't reduce ourselves to what our camera picks up two-dimensionally. We are such dynamic beings."

Besides negative effects from social media, daily experiences in certain extracurricular activities and cultures can have effects as well, according to the Mental Health Foundation. Sarah Parmet ’25 said she witnessed

peers struggle with body image as a ularly vulnerable dancer and cheerleader. place where people have “I’ve seen people quit dance because a lot of shame around.” of body image,” Parmet said. “When I Clara Berg '25 said that having ask them why [they] quit, part of the conversations with her friends has inreason is that it’s really installed a neg- creased her awareness of the unfair biative body image in them and they’ve ases of fashion. gotten really shaming comments. The “At school, I'm so lucky to have friends room is full of mirrors, and you’re very that are so open to talking about [body vulnerable, and the image],” Berg said. “I hear whole idea of ‘tuck them talk about how the your tummy in’ and industry is de[Body image] is fashion ‘look smaller’ can signed for [the thin] body often developed through type and pretty much no really affect you, especially in ballet. relationships with other one else's. Being around I’m pretty short, and people, or messages so many people with difI’ve been told ‘You’re ferent bodies and differthat we get about our ent experiences than me, short, so your lines bodies.” I've been able to be more won’t look great because you’re short.’

—Emily Joyner aware and make sure that Some of that should I'm not asking people to Upper School Psychologist do things that are pushchange because these comments can really ing their boundaries or affect people.” making them feel bad.”

Joyner said that she also observed Joyner said she feels that the that the fashion industry was often tai- school has a limited pool of body lored towards certain body types more types and was designed with advanthan others, which can send a negative tages given to those who are thinner. message to those who did not conform “I don’t observe a lot of diversity of to what was conventionally accepted as body size at the school,” Joyner said. the norm.

“There’s a thinness to the norm. Even “Expression is so cool, and I love with the stairs at school, what message thinking about the way trends shift, cy- does that send to ourselves when everycle and evolve over time,” Joyner said. day we’re struggling to go up the stairs?

“But, there are some styles like the low There can also be competitive comrise jeans that were very popular 13 years ponents to body size and athleticism ago that are coming back or crop tops in general, which is normal for high that make people think that they have to school but potentially really harmful fit a standard to wear the style. Particu- because it is such a pivotal time where larly, I feel that the stomach is a partic- we’re growing and developing. It can be a time where we're looking to others for affirmation, and body image is such a big part of that.”

Liya said that she felt judged by her peers as a result of her body, further lowering her self esteem.

“No one outright said that I looked fat or anything like that,” Liya said. “But when we’re getting food from the cafeteria, I felt very conscious reaching for the fries or chicken nuggets. I definitely also had the sense that my friends often assumed, ‘oh, she’s just unathletic,’ or ‘she must be lazy,’ neither of which were true.

I felt misunderstood.”

Liya said that when she first started using the drug, she felt hesitant to share it because she felt like she was cheating her way to thinness.

“I always had this mindset that I had to work to deserve a thin body,” Liya said. “So now that I’m taking this drug, I feel like I’m taking a shortcut, and one that not everyone is able to afford.”

Joyner said the expensiveness of the drug and the willingness of people to pay for it reveals a societal attitude towards body image.

“It reflects where our values are as a culture right now in terms of valuing thinness,” Joyner said.

ILLUSTRATIONS BY MEJO LIAO AND EVA PARK *Name has been changed

“

• Continued on hwchronicle.com

Dec. 13, 2023

hwchronicle.com/features

Features B7

UNWRAPPING PRIVILEGE Students and faculty reflect on how varying socioeconomic statuses affect members of the school community during the holiday season.

By Saisha Kumar and William Liu

Senior Prefect Elizabeth Johnstone ’24 receives financial aid and said that With the holiday season approach- although she often anticipates convering, Maylie Macias ’26 was excited sations about vacations following winfor her friend group’s annual Secret ter break, she doesn’t see those interacSanta. She and her friends would each tions as too awkward. exchange holiday gifts anonymously, “For my friends who are on financial drawing random names for their gifts aid, we always joke about how that’s and keeping their identities a secret. the big dreaded vacation question,” However, after hearing about the price Johnstone said. “When everyone comes of gifts from previous years, Macias back from break, it’s like, ‘Oh, where said her excitement turned into concern did you go over break?’ but it’s not that as she worried if she could afbig of an issue. No one cares ford a similar caliber of gifts. if you stay in or out.”

Macias said she decided not to Macias said she doesn’t participate in the Secret Santa think these interactions are because she knew she would uncomfortable, though she not be able to afford somesees differences in what she thing so expensive. does over break compared to “I got intimidated and other students. afraid that I wouldn’t be able “I know people who went Lacy Wood to provide the same highto Hawaii or London during Elizabeth er-end gifts that they were Thanksgiving break,” MaJohnstone ’24 giving, so I asked my friend cias said. “I don’t think it to take my name out of the affects me personally, aldraw,” Macias said. though it is really surprising to see Macias, who attends the school on how much people are able to travel. financial aid, said she felt self-con- Usually for vacations, I just visit my scious about her financial situation. hometown in Mexico. ” Feeling pressured, she said she decided Dylan Wuo ’25 said the extravanot to participate at all. gance of students’ vacations generally “People were getting really expensive do not bother him. gifts for everyone, and I knew I couldn’t “I have many experiences with othgive that,” Macias said. “In middle ers going on fancier vacations than school, I would always give little can- me, but I am okay with that,” Wuo dy gifts to my friends, which would’ve said. “To me, vacations don’t have to been enough then, but my own insecuri- be fancy in order for them to be memty about my socioeconomic status keeps orable. However, holiday celebrations me from participating now.” do seem to largely emphasize social Upper School Counselor Michelle status within our community. I love Bracken said socioeconomic differ- the celebrations, but I cannot help but ences tend to become more obvious think about social status when I parduring the holidays. ticipate in them.”

“There are certain things that Edward Ward ’25 said while he people talk aboutwhere somebody goes on vacations often, he recognizelse has a very different experience,” es that oversharing about holiday exBracken said. “A vacation to an aver- travagances on social media can create age person [could seem] very lavish, bitter feelings. but to [other] people, it’s just what “I am fortunate enough to be able they do. It’s not wrong, but I think to travel, but I don’t use social media,” it’s hard to talk about.”

Ward said. “I think people certainly post to show off what they are doing or how cool they are for going somewhere over break, and that

could lead to jealousy. The school can vard-Westlake student has, [but] we probably do something if a post is ex- can’t control the outside world.” Gonplicitly directed at someone, but there zalez said. “We can’t control how peoprobably isn’t a way to regulate what ple feel about their own socioeconomic people are posting altogether.” situation outside of our gates.”

In addition to vacations and holiday Bracken said she has noticed a shift celebrations, Macias said she is con- in the school environment as more scious of her financial status in day-to- and more people have begun to accept day activities. those of a lower socioeconomic status.

“I can’t spend as much money as “I do feel like [financial aid] is stigsome of my friends,” matized,” Bracken said.

Macias said. “I can’t “I don’t think other go to Starbucks evpeople always underI love the ery day and stuff like stand financial aid or celebrations, but I that. I do see the difwhat it means, but I ferences [in wealth], think friends are becannot help but think and I do see how some coming more aware of about social status when different situations and people flaunt their soI participate in them.” cioeconomic status, trying to be more senalthough I don’t think sitive. There’s certainly —Dylan Wuo ’25 people who aren’t selfit’s as much of a [problem] as it is in other aware enough to be able private schools.” to do that, but most Macias said she feels social pressure people have friends that try to make from her peers when seeing the kinds of those kinds of accommodations.” clothes fellow students wear to school.

Johnstone said navigating social inter“There’s definitely a certain style or actions regarding her financial situation way that people dress that is considered have not been difficult and that she has the norm,” Macias said. “Levi’s Jeans not experienced prejudice from her peers. cost like $100 which is crazy, and my “When it comes to students who family doesn’t buy jeans or clothes un- are on financial aid, if you want to talk til it goes on sale at Target. So, in terms about it, you can talk about it, and if of fashion, I do see that bar being set.” you don’t want to talk about it, you The school’s financial aid grants don’t have to talk about it,” Johnstone all books, required course materials, said. “I’ve been treated the same way required sports equipment, computer by friends whom I told and friends stipend and a $1,300 account for the whom I haven’t told.” cafeteria and bookstore to students.

Wuo said though he senses stigma Financial aid is need-based and de- surrounding financial aid at the school, termined by a family’s income and as- he tries to view people as separate from sets. The school supplies financial aid their financial situations. for about 20 percent of students, with “I have ran into a few times in [where] most grants being an average of 75 per- financial aid was brought up in convercent of tuition, according to hw.com. sation, and some were hesitant to speak Director of Financial Aid Greg on their social status,” Wuo said. “This Gonzalez said the school does every- kind of uncertainty does seem to suggest thing in its power to equalize what stu- an apparent stigma around financial aid. dents have academically, even if it can- Even though some have revealed where not do much in terms of how students they stand, this doesn’t really affect feel about their financial situation. how I view them as people.” “[The Financial Aid Office] works • Continued on hwchronicle.com hard to make sure that every student on aid has access to whatever other Har-

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ILLUSTR ATION BY EVA PARK

B8 Features

The Chronicle

Dec. 13, 2023

Students and faculty in the school community discuss the rising issues of social media dependence and taking breaks from platforms.

By Georgia Grad

very strict rules, which is the main reason why she doesn’t have social media in the It was tech week for the school mu- first place.

“When I used to constantly fight sical. Lights had to be set up. Costumes had to be fitted. Microphones needed their rule [that I couldn't have social meto be adjusted. As the days seemed end- dia until I was 18], they would explain less, Maya Ray ’25 was overwhelmed that they had done a lot of research and with a massive pile of work to complete. multiple studies show that being on soShe arrived home late every night of the cial media sites is risky for teens, who week, finding herself scrolling on social are more likely to develop depression, media despite her many assignments. among other things, if they are on these Ray said she realized social media was sites,” Rosenfeld said.

“My dad also worked at a social metaking up too much of her time, so she decided to simply delete it. She said dia company when social media was first that she felt very refreshed during her starting out and explained that privacy and algorithms were, and still are, probsocial media break.

“I stayed off of it for two weeks lems within the realm of social media, so but then eventually downloaded apps it is simply not worth the risk. For years, I again,” Ray said. “There was definitely would do my own research because I felt less to worry about [without social me- left out since I didn’t have social media. dia]. I just feel like there were less things I even found a Harvard study that said cluttering my mind, and I could actually that not having social media in a world focus on what was important. I still do where everyone does poses its own risks, this momentarily when I'm getting re- but eventually I realized that my parents ally stressed out. When school or other are right."

This school year, the middle school things in my life get really overwhelming I don't want the added burden of having deans sent out an email to parents about to keep up with everything on social the dangers of Snapchat. On Dec. 1, media. Removing it from my phone so Middle School Dean Matthew Cutler it’s out of sight and out of mind is the sent out an email to eighth grade parents best way for me because it takes a while asking them to monitor their child's use of social media. to download it again.”

"Let us be clear, in our opinion, soA social media cleanse or detox means taking a break from social media plat- cial media is one of, if not the single, forms. It’s up to the person how long they greatest threat to your child’s social and want to challenge themselves, according emotional well-being," Cutler said. "Our to Calm, a mental health app that helps recommendation is for you to have your with sleep, stress and meditation. Some child delete Snapchat from their phones. will do this for a day while others will do There is no positive function that Snapthis for many months at a time. Around chat performs that can’t be performed by seven out of 10 Americans use social me- other apps."

Maya Karsh ’25 has used social media dia. On average, teenagers use social media for around five hours a day, which has on and off during her adolescent years. increased mental health problems across Karsh said she uses Snapchat, Instagram the board, especially among younger and TikTok now but from October 2022 to this summer, she did not have TikTok. girls, according to Fortune.

Death scrolling, often referred to as Karsh said she originally deleted it when doom scrolling, is continuing to scroll everyone thought TikTok was getting banned by China. through bad news “After I deleted Tikeven though it may Tok, I just never got be upsetting, according to Wired. Jackson "There's no difference it back,” Karsh said.

I would travHollis ’25 took a break between someone “When el with my friends we from social media being a cocaine addict would have a lot of when he went on vacation in Hawaii and felt and someone being a downtime. I'd nevrefreshed during his social media addict," er want to just sit on our phones because I break. Hollis said he has an unhealthy ten—Tina McGraw ’01 couldn't relax. I'd aldency to “death scroll” Upper School Counselor ways want to go places and do other things. on social media.

They were like, ‘why is “It makes you depressed and psychologically, it makes it that you can't sit on your phone?’ I was your brain think that you're depressed,” like, ‘well I don't have TikTok,’ and they Hollis said. “I read two books while I were just laughing about how because I was in Hawaii, went to the beach and didn't have TikTok, what would I do on had a good time. I felt super happy, re- my phone. I would literally play Candy laxed and excited about life [when I de- Crush because when you don't have TikTok, you don't really have anything to leted social media].”

Not all students at the school have and do on your phone.”

Karsh said that although social meuse social platforms. Tess Rosenfeld ’25 said she limits her social media usage and dia can be very addicting for others, she only had an Instagram account over this does not feel that it affects her strongly in that sense. past summer.

“I've never really had a problem with “For the most part, I only have social media apps if they serve a specific pur- [social media],” Karsh said. “I definitely pose,” Rosenfeld said. “For example, I noticed I spend more time on my phone studied abroad this summer, and it was since having TikTok again because it easier to start an Instagram account with gives you something to do while you're a few friends and family than to send on your phone. I wouldn’t say TikTok has photos individually to people. I still did even kept me or distracted me from doing not follow anyone back or use it for any my work and nor do I think it is now. I other purpose. It was purely a tool that tried to be disciplined. Deleting and takhelped me because I was 7 thousand ing a break from social media is more of a personal decision I can make whenever miles away from home.”

Rosenfeld said that her parents have instead of needing to delete it immedi-

“

ately like others.” lot but my biggest app use is FaceJake Parker ’24 said he doesn’t use so- Time. I FaceTime people for at least cial media as much as his other friends four hours every night. Out of social and sees the addiction affecting the media apps, I use TikTok the most. I school environment. get distracted after watching one thir“When I eat lunch with my friends at ty second video and all of a sudden, it’s school, it can be really sad when every- been an hour." one is on their phones separately at the Peer Support Program Head Tina table,” Parker said. “Sometimes, we’ll McGraw ’01 said using social media just all be sitting on our phones eating activates dopamine in the brain which lunch without really talking about any- leads to addictive behavior. thing. Even if we are all sharing funny "There's no difference between videos at the same time with each other, someone being a cocaine addict and it’s not the same as talking face someone being a social meto face and being present in a dia addict," McGraw said. group setting.”

"It looks exactly the same Calla Fox ’25, like many in terms of the biological others at the school, uses change. You have dopamine social media frequently in your brain, and dopamine throughout the week. When is tied to a reward. Over time, Fox broke her phone this year, your brain doesn't like the she said waiting for a new one overstimulation and you're was somewhat hard. left with much fewer recepL. Wood “I broke my phone prettors which is called tolerance. ty badly because I dropped it You have to scroll on social Noa a lot,” Fox said. “I didn't snap media for about half an hour Blackman ’25 anyone from it, but, just to see just to stimulate those recepwho did snap me, I downloaded Snap- tors to get back to a baseline. That's chat on my computer. During that time, the underlying process of addiction, I probably asked my friends, ‘Can I see these biological changes that make us your phone for a second?’ I actually felt need to do that drug more and more so free, but then I got a new phone, and in order to feel normal because we bemy habits came back unfortunately. My come tolerant to it. That's a biological screen time is five hours a day and my change, not psychological." friends constantly tell me I'm on my Noa Blackman ’25 said McGraw phone too much. ” came to her psychology class this year to Fox said that by being on social me- discuss addiction, specifically in terms dia, most people want to receive likes of social media. and comments when they post, "I started to notice how social media including herself. affected my life in a greater way than I “The culture of instahad ever realized," Blackman said. "I felt gram and other social symptoms, like headaches, when I used media platforms has social media a lot so I decided to follow grown into postMcGraw's advice, and I put screen ing and then time limits on my social media receiving apps without knowing likes and the password to open c omments,” Fox said.

“By being a part of this toxic platform, I am wrapped into this negativity, but it’s hard to separate myself from it. While I do admit that I use Snapchat a lot, I usually only post on Instagram them back up." when I’m doAlthough some students ing something may be nervous to delete their interesting and social media because they could want people miss out on something, McGraw to see what I said they should keep remembering am experiencing.” the positives.

Zoe Roth ’24 "What helps is reminding yourself said she is on her that the day has a limited number of iPhone a lot and hours and every time you give more has a very high time to social media, you lose that screen time. time for other things," McGraw said.

"My daily screen "Those other things can be even bettime is seven hours," ter than being in on the TikTok joke.

Roth said. "I find myself If you have more time with friends, distracted by that can be more fulfilling and my iPhone a more meaningful than being in on some of the surface level stuff that is always changing and always updating."

ILLUSTRATION BY IRIS CHUNG

Arts &Entertainment The Chronicle • Dec. 13, 2023

Students discuss Erewhon Market’s branding and how it affects the school community’s overall perception of its food and the store itself.

By Sasha Aghnatios & Zoe Goor

activity at HW. I can’t even count how many times after school I went On her break from to Erewhon with my her job at ChaCha Mat- friends and saw half the cha on Abbott Kinney grade there.”

While Erewhon does Blvd. in Venice Beach, Katie Chambers ’25 sell produce and meat like walked a few blocks to the other grocery stores, their hot bar is the Erewhon Market subject of much (Erewhon) down student attenthe street to grab tion, according something to eat. to Chambers.

As she strolled the When she goes aisles, she was not to Erewhon, surprised by the Chambers said prices as she had she likes to get been the first time a hot bar combo she’d gone: ChamL. Wood plate, which inbers had become Lily cludes a protein accustomed to the Tamkin ’25 and two sides, relatively high food prices found at Erewhon. such as organic brown She also wasn’t shocked to rice balls and organic garlic see the different products sauteed green beans with Erewhon sold. Among melted tomatoes.

Chambers said that dethe standard grocery items were more niche ones: spite the high cost of prodraw whole milk ($19.99), ucts at Erewhon, she still blue pearl almond milk likes to get her lunch there ($15.00) and holi(mane) when she works.

“It’s obviously really exCollagen & Pearl Powder pensive,” Chambers said.

Hair Skin Nails ($99.00).

Erewhon’s Website’s “It’s just really convenient About Us section is re- because I don’t have that vealing of both the store’s much time to go to a sit driving ethos and its per- down restaurant. The hot ception of itself: “We are bar is really good, and more than your local gro- there’s also so much varicery store; we are a com- ety. The convenience and munity of people who quality of food definitely are united in our love for makes it more appealing pure products that pro- than other grocery stores. tect the health of people I just like the fact that I will get a well-balanced and our planet.”

Chambers said that in meal but not have to put addition to being a gro- that much effort into cery store, Erewhon is a thinking about it.”

The Balenciaga Fall popular hang-out spot for 2024 fashion show skystudents of the school.

“I probably go two rocketed the grocery store to three times a week,” to haute-couture fame, as Chambers said. “I one the show featured Kim hundred percent believe Kardashian and other that Erewhon is a social prominent models car-

rying Erewhon grocery bags, according to Hollywood Reporter. The Erewhon-Balenciaga partnership culminated in a limited juice that comes in a signature Balenciaga-style black jar.

Chambers said she purchased the Balenciaga-Erewhon juice, which was in very high demand, and was underwhelmed by its generic flavor.

“It tasted like a turmeric health shot,” Chambers said. “It wasn’t bad, but I would never buy it again. It was also $14 which is pretty expensive for juice. It was really hard to get. All morning we were on the phone with Erewhon, [asking], ‘When are you gonna restock the juice? Like we need this juice.” But, we finally got it. The bottle is super cool.”

Lily Tamkin ’25 said she feels this aesthetic is what draws students and A-listers to the market.

“Branding for sure [sets Erewhon apart from other supermarkets],” Tamkin said. “There are always celebrities there. I actually saw Ross Lynch there the other day. Going there feels like a social activity a lot of the time.”

Part of Erewhon’s appeal is its claim to health, which can be seen by looking on its website, where it says “at Erewhon, we believe that nutrition is the key to a radiant lifestyle.” Ben Boateng ’25 said he feels the food he purchases at Erewhon is always nutritious.

“I think it’s healthy,” Boateng said. “I don’t

think I’ve seen one thing foods are labeled ‘organat Erewhon that doesn’t ic’ or something like that, work wonders for you, and they’re presented reand I don’t second guess ally nicely, so it all feels Erewhon’s ability to say if really healthy.” something is healthy beBlackman said foods cause everything there is.” branded as healthy can Noa Blackman ’25 said actually be surprisingly the hot bar and promise of detrimental to somehealth are what draw her one’s general health. to Erewhon.

“I feel pretty knowledge“It’s so expensive, but able on what is unhealthy then you feel healthy,” and what is healthy,” BlackBlackman said. “The hot man said. “I love peanut bar is different from su- butter. But, peanut butpermarkets. It’s like hav- ter is not good for you. ing so many of the tasters It’s just so processed. Same from Trader Joe’s, but it’s with oat milk and oatmeal. so expensive.”

It’s been presented as a Blackman said she ac- healthy thing, but it just tively chooses to view Ere- raises your insulin and whon as a healthy super- makes you more hungry.” market, despite the fact that Tamkin said while she there are some unhealthy does think that Erewhon’s food options. food is healthy, society’s “I forced myself to think general view of the grothat it’s healthy,” Blackman cery store could contribsaid. “I feel like everything’s ute to that fact. super organic. I do believe “I think it’s pretty that evh e a l t h y, ” erything Ta m k i n is pretty said. “They All the foods organic, use good are labeled ‘organic’ or but if you quality inchoose something like that, and g re d i e n t s , but they only the they’re all presented could just stuff that really nicely, so it all be using is kind feels healthy.” their brandof uning to make healthy —Glory Ho ’24 unhealthy [then it’s foods seem not going to be healthy]. They healthy. I would say that do make these great sal- society has definitely deads, which are something fined what is ‘healthy’ I actually really look for- versus what is ‘unhealthy,’ ward to eating, though.” and society has decided Glory Ho ’24 said she that Erewhon is healthy. feels that Erewhon prod- I would feel healthy ucts are good for her be- walking around with an cause of their appearance. Erewhon smoothie but “I think the food is feel unhealthy with a Mcpretty healthy, at least Donald’s milkshake even it’s definitely marketed as though they have around such,” Ho said. “All the the same sugar content.”

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ILLUSTRATIONS BY ANNABELLE CHEUNG

C2 Arts & Entertainment

The Chronicle

Singers perform in showcase

Dec. 13, 2023

By Katelyn Kim

Singer-songwriter students performed in the Songwriter’s Showcase, hosted by the Songwriting Club, on Dec. 8.

Songwriting Club Leader Whitney Enenstein ’24 performed two original songs from her debut EP, “Trust Issues”: “You and Me” and “My Favorite Boy.” Enenstein said the songs were inspired by several of her past relationships.

“I was inspired to write ‘You and Me’ while observing a sports game, reflecting on past relationships and their emotional impact,” Enenstein said. “I aimed to convey feelings of hopelessness and longing through this piece.”

Enenstein said the lyrics in “You and Me” connect her emotions to different colors.

“My favorite lyrics draw a parallel between different colors, reflecting deeper emotions within the song,” Enenstein said. “I wrote ‘You and Me’ on a beautiful Thanksgiving morning while sitting on a dock in South Carolina. It was a very meaningful, memorable experience, as the song flowed out of me.”

Enenstein said she was glad

KATELYN KIM/CHRONICLE

A NOTABLE PERFORMANCE: Singer-songwriter Rheanna Vradiy ’25 captivates the audience members as she performs one of her original songs, “Places,” during the Songwriter’s Showcase. She also sang another original, “Window,” and covered “Dead Sea” by the Lumineers. the audience was able to connect with her pain and resonate with the song’s message.

“Many [members of the audience] told me that they were touched by my lyrics and related to the pain I felt,” Enenstein said.

Sarah Parmet ’25 presented two songs during the showcase. Parmet said she showcased songs from two different genres.

“The first was an intimate piano pop ballad, and the second was an EDM dance track,” Parmet said. “My first piece, ‘Helen,’ delves into Greek mythology from the perspective of Paris of

Troy, incorporated with many references throughout. The second track, ‘Wannabe,’ produced in Logic Pro, is an uplifting anthem about resilience and staying true to oneself despite any external pressures.”

Parmet said producing an EDM dance track is a meticulous process that requires a careful balance of soundtracks.

“Creating an EDM dance track is difficult,” Parmet said.

“It involves lots of layering. There are around 20 tracks in my song.

Balancing these tracks becomes crucial. Deciding what to bring

out and what to put aside is key.

Sometimes, if you try to make everything stand out, they all blend in together.”

Parmet said the audience’s enthusiastic response to her music made the performance an experience she will never forget.

“The audience was extremely receptive and supportive of my song,” Parmet said. “During a segment where I encouraged everyone to clap along, I was amazed by the volume of the applause. I could barely hear myself singing. Their enthusiasm truly made performing an enjoyable

experience. It wouldn’t have been the same without their presence.”

Micah Parr ’25 said watching the showcase inspired him to explore songwriting himself.

“I found this event to be incredibly inspiring,” Parr said.

“Witnessing these students come together and express themselves within such a supportive environment truly amazed me. While I haven’t written any songs yet, my passion lies in playing the drums and guitar. I aspire to create my own songs, and this event made me consider attempting [songwriting] in the future.”

Student singers perform in Winter Choral Concert

By Analeigh Nava

The Upper School Performing Arts Departments hosted its 2023 Winter Choral Concert, featuring performances from Bel Canto, Wolverine Chorus, Chamber Singers and Jazz Singers Dec. 7 in Rugby Theater.

The concert consisted of 24 choral pieces and was directed

by Upper School Performing Arts teacher Zanaida Robles.

Wolverine Chorus singerMaylie Macias ’26 said though she was nervous about performing at first, she is proud of the performance and that she thought she and her peers performed well.

“It was nerve-racking at past performances helped them first,” Macias said. ”I feel like get used to singing for a large a lot of the sophomores were crowd like the Choral Concert. feeling nervous about it being “Because I’ve been performour first concert at the Upper ing for so long, it’s gotten less School, and seniors difficult to perwere nervous about it form in front of big being their last Winter crowds,” Fireshein Concert before graduatsaid. “It’s still scary ing,” Macias said. sometimes, but it’s Macias said she was gotten a lot easier. proud of herself and her It’s also become a lot classmates’ perfomance. more enjoyable now “In the end, I feel like it that I’m not as nercame together,” Macias vous. Being in the l.wood said. “We were all proud spring musical last Isaac of each other and all of year taught me a lot Tiu ’24 our performances.” about performing Wolverine Chorus mem- and becoming more comfortber Cole Fireshein ’26 said their able on stage.”

Fireshein said they were excited to be singled out for their solo during the show.

“Performing a solo is a really interesting experience,” Fireshein said. “It’s scary but it’s also exciting because you get recognized for something you really love to do. But you’re also having to perform in front of your classmates, parents and teachers which can be scary.”

Jazz Singers Student Director and Chamber Singers member Isaac Tiu ’24 said he is glad that the time and effort he dedicated to the performance paid off.

“I was excited to be on stage to perform the works we worked on for so long,” Tiu said. “For

both Chamber Singers and Jazz Singers, we had gigs in the last few months that helped us prepare, [and] we’ve held lots of extra rehearsals to work on singing together as an ensemble. I’m amazed with the hard work, and the extra time we put in to create [this show].”

Zarah Colmenares-Cifuentes ’26, who attended the concert, said she was impressed with the caliber of performances.

“Everyone was in sync with one another,” Colemnares-Cifuentes said. “It made the songs sound smooth and beautiful.

[When] they were in sync, it made me feel relaxed. I really enjoyed watching them.”

Jazz students host winter concert

By Hailey Cho

CONNOR TANG/CHRONICLE

JAZZING THINGS UP: Manos Vourgourakis ’25 plays the bass in the Explorers Combo group that opened for the jazz band concert.

Members of the school’s four bands, Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Explorers, Studio Jazz Band and Jazz Band, gathered to perform for their winter concert Dec. 1.

Performing Arts Teacher Chris Sullivan directed the student jazz musicians.

The Jazz Explorers began the concert with the 1954 song “Mayreh” by Horace Silver.

Bassist Mano Vourgourakis ’25 said he felt proud to start the recital with his fellow band members and friends.

“Opening the show was a special moment,” Vourgourakis said. “We were the only combo [small group] to perform that night [and it] was my favorite part of that night. I felt the weight of our dedication and hard work paying off.”

Students learned pieces from famous composers, including Count Basie and Duke Ellington. Sullivan said he wanted to introduce students to a more ad-

vanced level of jazz.

“We are lucky to have many arrangers who simplify compositions to make them more accessible to high school groups,” Sullivan said. “[Though] this is an excellent way to introduce younger bands to iconic recordings, I wanted our students to play the exact arrangements [as] in the original recordings. It was a challenge, but our students did a wonderful job rising to the occasion and putting forth a fantastic show that reflected their hard work.”

Lorena Um Kim ’25, who attended the concert, said she was moved by their performance.

“The jazz concert gave me a sense of joy as I watched the hard work of the bands pay off during the show,” Kim said. “It inspired me to listen to more jazz music as I found that it calmed me.”

Saxophonist Eric Vartany ’24 has been in the band for almost three years and also plays an Armenian double reed instrument called a duduk. Varta-

ny said he has been playing the dudak from a young age.

“I have been playing duduk for nine years now,” Vartany said.“The duduk connects me to my Armenian heritage, and sharing my passion for the duduk with the Harvard-Westlake community was incredible.

Not many people know about Armenian culture, and even fewer know about the duduk. This concert was special because I could show others a piece of Armenian culture, and it allowed me to shed light on the beauty of the duduk.”

Sullivan acknowledged the deciation of his students and their successful performances.

“Preparing for these performances takes a lot of time, thought and effort.” Sullivan said. “Every group played well, and the crowd was fantastic. We will gather together to celebrate the great performance before setting our sights on the next performance, the Combos Concerts, on February 24 and 25.”

Dec. 13, 2023

hwchronicle.com/a&e

Arts & Entertainment C3

Se ason’s St re amings

“Diary of a Wimpy Kid Christmas: Cabin Fever”

By Ella Yadegar In 2019, when I first heard that Disney had acquired and would be rebooting the Diary of a Wimpy Kid franchise into a series of animated films on Disney+, I was elated. It’s no secret that I am a massive fan of the book series by my deity, Jeff Kinney, so to hear that the novels would finally be getting a proper adaptation in a medium that could do the source material justice was a dream come true.

But in December 2021, when the first installment of the new movie series dropped on streaming, my heart sank.

The film absolutely butchered

all of the iconic characters that audiences have come to love. Rowley, well-established in the live-action films as one of pop culture’s biggest heartthrobs, was reduced to a bumbling idiot with absolutely nothing to say about the socio-political state of the world.

Rodrick, once regarded as one of modern cinema’s most complex characters, was nothing but a shell of his former self. Crestfallen, I accepted that the series had hit a rough patch and prayed daily for it to see a return to glory.

While 2022’s animated “Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules” was a slight improvement over the original, it still hurt to see what Disney had done. Not

only did they murder the franchise, but now they were parading its cold, lifeless corpse around for the entire world to see. It made me want to say to Kinney himself, “Don’t call me.

Don’t come by my house.”

All this is to say that when I sat down to watch the most recent installment, “Diary of a Wimpy Kid Christmas: Cabin Fever,” my expectations were on the absolute floor. However, I was pleasantly surprised to find that the third film in the rebooted series was a vast improvement from its predecessors. Greg Heffley actually has some semblance of a character arc. It’s nothing revolutionary for a Christmas

special (the moral of the story is ultimately, “Christmas is about more than just presents”), but it nice to see that the series has evolved from being painfully awful to excruciatingly mediocre.

At the end of the day, mediocrity has become something to strive for. While many remember the days when passion was put into this franchise, it’s clear that these new films are not meant for those who watched the originals.

As long as there are those who remember what was, there will always be those who are unable to accept what is. It is our duty to hold art to a higher standard and cherish what actually pushes cinema forward. Zoo Wee Mama!

“Fruitcake” Holiday EP by Sabrina Carpenter

By Annabelle Cheung Sabrina Carpenter released her Christmas EP titled “Fruitcake” on Nov. 17, featuring five original songs. Swapping a traditional sound for a cheekier one, Carpenter’s unique take on Christmas carols is catchy, girly and witty, making for a fresh yet good take on holiday music.

The first track, “A Nonsense Christmas,” is a Christmas version of one of Carpenter’s most popular songs, “Nonsense.” This homage to “Nonsense” does not disappoint as the song is filled with suggestive wordplay. Carpenter brings her distinctive

touch of playfulness to the holidays, and this track is an excellent introduction to the EP. Track two, “buy me presents,” showcases a more classic Christmas sound with upbeat, bouncy beats and instrumentals reminiscent of Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You.” It features smooth adlibs during the chorus and a sax solo, making it arguably one of the best tracks on the EP. Track three, “santa doesn’t know you like i do” switches to a calmer, ballad-like sound that slowly progresses to an upbeat chorus. Although it is still more pop-oriented than tradition-

al Christmas music, it ditches the previous two songs’ level of playfulness, instead opting for a more mature concept.

The saddest song is “cindy lou who.” Referencing the character from Dr. Suess’s “The Grinch,” it adds a vulnerable level of dimension to the lineup by talking about heartbreak.

Next, “is it new years yet” does a complete 180 from “cindy lou who,” and returns to the EP’s upbeat sound. It is similar to the songs on Carpenter’s 2022 album “Emails I Can’t Send,” and has the dance-pop element that her songs “Feather” and “Read your Mind” have.

The staccato chorus is catchy and light, which is perfect for dancing with friends during the holiday season.

Closing out the album is a rendition of “White Christmas” with lyrics lifted from other famous Christmas songs. The song showcases Carpenter’s vocals and musicality and is a relaxed and casual closing with more simple production and a focus on vocals.

Although half the songs on the EP might be slightly forgettable on their own, all together, they make a very cohesive and versatile album that deserves to be on repeat this holiday season.

Staff members share their favorite holiday songs. Scan the code at the bottom of the page on Spotify to listen to the playlist.

“Let It Go - Frozen”

By Idina Menzel “I love Olaf.”

- Nathan Wang ’25

“All I Want for Christmas Is You”

By Mariah Carey

“I have a t-shirt of Mariah Carey. This song just gets me in the Christmas mood and makes me all giddy.”

- Jake Lancer ’24

“White Christmas”

By Bing Crosby

“Always a classic. This song brings back the chilly winter spirit of Christmastime wherever it plays, even if that be Studio City.”

- Averie Perrin ’24

“The Chanukah Song”

By Adam Sandler

“Adam Sandler writing and singing his own song, what could be better?”

- Georgia Grad ’25

“Last Christmas” “I Saw Mommy Kissing By Wham Santa Claus” “This song is my childhood”

By The Jackson 5 - Alden Detmer ’25 “Jackson 5 classic!”

- Eden Conner ’25

“Mistletoe”

By Justin Bieber

“Keep the Family Close”

By Drake

“The Christmas Song ”

By Nat King Cole

“I can smell the chestnuts.

YUM!” - Sasha Aghnatios ’25

“I am, and always have been, a Belieber. I’m actively rooting against Hailey. My name will be Kriste Bieber one day.”

- Kriste An ’24

“Main Title - Elf (Original Motion Picture Score)”

By John Debney

“Feliz Navidad”

By José Feliciano

“Santa Tell Me”

By Ariana Grande

“A wintertime classic by a generational talent. Chills, everytime. ” - Ella Yadegar ’24

“Elf is my favorite holiday movie.

Everytime the movie starts and I hear this song, it just makes me happy.”

- Tate Sheehy ’24

“This is Presentation Managing Editor Kriste An’s ’24 favorite holiday song, so it’s mine too.”

- Jade Harris ’24

“I am also a Belieber, but since that’s been taken, now is the time to announce I’m an Arianator.

This song is a perfect mixture of two things I love: Ariana and the spirit of Christmas.”

- William Liu ’25

“Jingle Bells”

By Frank Sinatra

“A melody all can enjoy.”

- Alex Dinh ’25

“Little Drummer Boy”

By Bing Crosby

“I could listen to this song in June. It’s a year-round song.”

- Caroline Plunkett ’24

“Holly Jolly Christmas”

By Michael Bublé

“An instant hit that always gets me in the holiday spirit.”

- Justin Tang ’25

“A Nonsense Christmas”

By Sabrina Carpenter

“Wonderful Christmastime” “‘Fruitcake’ is a masterpiece. Sa- By Paul McCartney brina Carpenter is anything but nonsense.”

- Hannah Shahidi ’25

“Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas”

By Frank Sinatra

“I can’t say I’m the biggest fan of British people, but Paul knew what he was doing with this one.

Underrated gem.”

- Davis Marks ’24

“Nothing evokes the non commercial spirit of the holidays quite like this song, which plays year round at the Grove.”

- Zoe Goor ’25

“Winter Wonderland”

By Michael Bublé

“A very nostalgic song that puts me in the holiday spirit.”

- Mia Morgan ’25

“Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree”

By Brenda Lee “Cheerful and nostalgic.”

- MeJo Liao ’25

ILLUSTRATIONS BY ANNABELLE CHEUNG

Satire The Chronicle • Dec. 13, 2023

New year, new me?

By Mejo Liao

work without crying.

Soon, 2023 will be over, and I would like to ring in the new year with some New Year’s resolutions. As a Harvard-Westlake student, there’s nothing more important to me than finding new ways to strive for perfection, so I’ve compiled a list of goals to meet in 2024. And don’t worry, I’ve kept them realistic this year.

5. Get through anything related to math without crying. It's really hard guys! The math office gives me bad vibes.

1. Be fit enough to hike up the stairs from the Quad to the library without breaking a sweat.

I’ve decided to use my gym’s StairMaster after school daily. If that doesn’t work, I’ll throw in the towel.

2. Get on a first name basis with President Rick Commons.

That awkward half-smile I make so that he knows I’m a student who joyfully pursues educational excellence is just not cutting it anymore.

3. Get through a meeting with my math teacher without crying.

4. Get through my math home-

6. Get over six hours of sleep on a school night. This might seem rather bold, but with enough Tylenol PM and a late start day not immediately followed by three tests, I believe it can be done.

7. Order every drink from the newly renovated Starbucks’s menu, starting with an Oleato Golden Foam Cold Brew. I’ve been scared to see what’s become of our beloved Starbucks on Ventura. What better way to start off the year than by taking some risks?

8. Actually have a good Spotify Wrapped. Honestly, my Wrapped this year was almost as embarrassing as the grade I received on my Honors United States History essay. Almost.

9. Actually get work done in the library. If it’s open before the end of the school year, that is.

ILLUSTRATION BY SIENA OROWITZ

PRETTY IN PINK: Super Princess Pop Star Sabrina Carpenter and Rick Caruso '76 sing on stage together as a dynamic duo. The pair will be perfomring a concert in Palisades Village this upcoming weekend, courtesy of Caruso.

Your holidays, my opinions

By Hannah Shahidi

more efficient on your end.

You’ve probably seen the fake — and poisonous — Community Council snow that sprinkled down the Quad earlier this month. You know what that means: the holiday season is officially upon us. Despite my usual positive and happy-golucky attitude, I’ve decided to become the Grinch and let you know what we’re not gonna be wasting time on during this holiday season.

Here’s the complete list:

3. Accepting that the library is closed. How dare the administration leave us to freeze without the warmth of the joyful pursuit of educational excellence? How do you expect me to pursue excellence if I was promised a library before Thanksgiving break, and it’s Dec. 13? I say we strike.

1. Selling something other than cookies at the Winter Market.

Get your entrepreneurialism out of here and take it to Venture. You don’t belong. Baked goods or bust.

ILLUSTRATION BY AMELIA CHIARELLI

2. Harassing seniors about their early decision (ED) applications.

C’mon, guys, don’t make them even more stressed than they already are. It’s not nice. Also, checking one of the many ED spreadsheets would probably be

New to Zillow: HW Edition

By Eden Conner

CHALMERS HALL:

WEILER HALL:

Former Editor in Chief Spencer Rascoff' ’93 founded Zillow, so to show support, we are uploading the school's buildings to the site.

Price: Can't put a price on those chats with Phariot at checkout.

Price: $1,000,000 (plus $300 for the next Chronicle Ralphs run).

Features: Ask a math teacher to count the number of rooms. Two bathrooms and the gender neutral bathroom which doubles as a couples retreat.

Features: Five rooms and one bathroom that no one knows about (keep it on the down low).

RUGBY HALL: Price: $3,000,000, or the amount of money it will take to make students read "Maurice" again.

Features: 11 Rooms (technically not bedrooms, but sleeping during Shakespeare units might suggest otherwise), two bathrooms and a square footage equivalent to the number of pages in a Homer novel.

Message from Seller: Welcome to Literature Lodgings, a lovely building conveniently nestled so far up campus that even Earl’s military-grade golf cart has trouble getting there. Feeling chilly in class? Enjoy a jacket you brought from home because the classroom thermostats are breathtaking displays of vintage charm. Unlike most nearby properties, Literature Lodgings features a bomb shelter below its main floor, built in the Cold War and currently used as a sick ward for students who miss class on test days.

Message from Seller: As you enter Chateau Chalmers, you are greeted by a stunning cafeteria with antique grilled chicken and Phariot (not included in the sale). The sophomore infestation of the cafeteria has not been resolved, but Prefect Council will eradicate it before any prospective showings. Upstairs, there are ten math classrooms, all of which can double as a Costco freezer section.

Walk down to the basement and you will find loud choir kids. Gross.

MUNGER LIBRARY: Price: Exponentially increasing, like the time spent in construction.

Message from Seller: Welcome to Journalism Jungle! Featuring a quintessential 1990s design and breathtaking unobstructed views of the faculty parking lot, this single story oasis is a testament to desktop computers that no one uses, enough food waste from layout to feed a medium sized nation and the security gun safe. While the large space in the Sports Room appeals to those who enjoy grand architecture, the smaller cubicles are perfect for prospective buyers who enjoy isolation within their home, or for staff writers who might need a place to cry after a senior tears apart their article on Friday night.

HAMILTON GYM:

Features: Read the series of articles about the library construction to find out.

Price: We will pay you.

Message from Seller: We finished before River Park!

Message from Seller: Musty.

Features: No air conditioning.

4. Using an umbrella at school.

It has never rained for more than an hour in Los Angeles — get over yourself. If you can’t handle the free shower, you’re probably just as useless as your umbrella.

5. Pretending that it’s normal for the sun to go down at 4:30 p.m.

There is no way that I’m the only one who’s seasonally depressed.

6. Getting sick and coming to school. Take the free day off. They can’t Honor Board you if you’re ACTUALLY sick.*

7. Standing by while Prefect Council ruins Winterfest. Seriously, they were too easily forgiven for whatever that Fanatic Fest was. Let Student Leaders for Inclusion, Diversity and Equity (SLIDE) plan it for once! It’s what the people want.

8. Going to the Grove and posting a picture of the Christmas tree.

What are you, a tourist?

9. Going to the Palisades Village.

What are you, a child? The only people allowed to go to Palisades village for the next six weeks are Rick Caruso and Palisades Charter High School freshmen.

10. Listening to Sabrina Carpenter's Christmas album. Like, why? *Head Prefect and Satire Editor Davis Marks '24 would like to clarify that the correct terminology is "brought before the Honor Board."

Crossword Puzzle Solutions

Chron-nections Solutions

1.) Movies: Love actually, The Grinch, Home Alone, Die Hard 2.) Reindeer: Rudolph, Prancer, Blitzen, Dasher 3.) Prefect Council: Winterfest, Wintermarket, Dodgeball, Coffeehouse 4.) Coffee shops: Civil, Starbucks, Alfreds, Coffee Bean

Sports The Chronicle • Dec. 13, 2023

GISELE THOMPSON | CUTTER EAST | GEORGE AVAKIAN | The engelbergs

REALEST IN

THE GAME ROBERT HINTON AND TRENT PERRY

• Continued on D2

ILLUSTRATION BY TATE SHEEHY

D2 Sports

hwchronicle.com/sports

Dec. 13, 2023

A BROTHER FROM ANOTHER MOTHER Senior guards Robert Hinton ’24 and Trent Perry ’24

reflect on their basketball journey at the school together with a chance to win back-to-back state titles.

By Justin Tang and Hana Mehdi Williams

we were going to kill middle school [basketball], and everything like that. From middle school to high school, we still kept the same bond, and it even grew from there.”

Hinton said playing basketball at a young age can be very challenging due to the prospects of recruiting.

As guard Trent Perry ’24 got into his defensive stance, he held a fixed gaze in the eyes of the opposing team’s point guard. Even while Perry heard the intense communication of his teammates behind him, he stayed focused on the player dribbling the ball in front of him. The point guard drove left with a crossover, trying to get past Perry — however, he wasn’t quick enough.

Perry poked the ball loose with ease, quickly regaining possession of the ball as he sprinted down the court.

As a defender arrived at Perry in an attempt to slow down the Wolverines’ fast break, s Perry knew exactly Champion e u g a e L ic what was about to /20: Delph happen. After throw- 2/13 ing the same bounce “Basketball is very pass that he had made for seven competitive in California startyears, Perry stood and watched ing from a very, very young as guard Robert Hinton ’24 el- age,” Hinton said. “Trent and I evated, brought the ball back never played on the same team and shook the rim. The crowd until we were in seventh grade erupted with cheer, as Per- at Harvard-Westlake, but we ry and Hinton celebrated on played in countless national their way back to defense. ranking camps since we were Perry said he and Hinton really young.” have developed a strong inPerry and Hinton are curgame connection over many rently ranked third and tenth years playing together. respectively among California’s “In high school, the top recruits in the class of chemistry was instant,” 2024, according to ESPN’s Perry said. “In middle recruiting database. Perschool, it was tough bery is also currently ranked cause Robert was still as the best point guard trying to get his buckets. in California, and But when it came to high 42nd among all school, I quickly adapted to high school recruits Robert’s game. in the United States.

In transition, Hinton said the two I always try to have expected the media find Robert attention that they have because he’s a received for a long time. great finisher, “I think Trent and I don’t and whenever get caught up in the [media attention] because we Robert has the ball, saw it coming,” Hinton I try to run down the said. “Obviously, now court because I know we’re ranked as fourhe’s going to find me. In star players, and we’re high school, we clicked committed to our for sure.” dream schools, Perry and Hinton both enrolled at the school but these are all in 7th grade, where they things played on the middle t h a t school boys’ basketball we’ve team, winning back-to-back b e e n Delphic League championtalking ships in 2019 and 2020.

Perry said he was able to easily become close friends with Hinton the moment they met each other.

“With me and about Robert, since sevwe knew enth grade, and even back even before then, it seemed so far down the season started in middle school that we were the path. I was like, ‘Trent, we best friends,” Perry said. “We need to do this. We need to do constantly talked about how that together. We need to play

at the [Nike Elite Youth Basketball League (EYBL) Peach Jam] together.’ And it all happened, so it’s not like it fell out of the sky. It’s something that we worked for and have been aiming for. Now that [the media attention] is happening, I don’t feel like it has a huge effect on us because we’ve been knowing that we’ve wanted to get to this spot for a long time.”

Perry said the two have endured several hardships and struggles to achieve their current level of success.

“I think I can speak for me and Robert when I say that our first two years of high school weren’t the prettiest,” Perry said. “We had high expectations of playing right away and playing a lot of big minutes, and [Basketball Program Head David Rebibo] did a good job of giving us a reality check that we still had a lot of work to do. Of course, when we waited our time and we got the minutes we wanted in our junior year, we still lost a couple of games. We had a loss in the championship game of [the Damien Classic] to Liberty High School.

We also lost to Corona Centennial and St. John Bosco to win the [California Interscholastic Federation Southern Section (CIF-SS) Open Division Championship]. Staying resilient and always pushing through adversity really helped us to get us to this point.”

Rebibo said Perry and Hinton were ultimately able to find their true identities by learning from older players in the program.

“When Trent and Robert came into the program, they were great workers,” Rebibo said. “They had expectations. They wanted to be great. But then they had to learn how to work and slowly learn from people like [Cameron Thrower ’22, Adam Hinton ’21, Brady Dunlap ’23, Jacob Huggins ’23 and Landon Lewis ’22].

As time went on, they developed their own work ethic, and they developed their own approach to try and get better. Seeing them better themselves every year has been really cool. They’re open to growth, they’re open to constructive criticism and they don’t shy away from it. They’re always eager to get better and learn. That was the standard that was set by the older guys, and now they’re doing that same thing. Our program is designed to help give you everything you need to improve.”

Perry said he and Hinton aspire to be positive yet critical leaders for the team as seniors.

“We’re always trying to encourage people and guide them the right way because with us being seniors, we know what Rebibo wants and what the system is like,” Perry said. “We always talk them through things and their mistakes. In my opinion, if they were at any school, they would have been the star players on

“I would want our legacy to be known as winners,” Perry said. “That is the most important thing. Winning back-to-back titles is even better than winning one. But an even bigger goal is just having zero losses this year. We had two losses last year, which were both games that we thought we definitely could’ve won.

Even though we won the state championship, Rebibo always reminds us that we didn’t win everything. Winning every single game this season is what’s on my mind.”

Next year, Perry will play Division I men’s basketball at the University of Southern California (USC), and Hinton will play Division I men’s basketball at Harvard University. Rebibo said both players are highly prepared to compete at the collegiate level.

“I think they’re both going to be well equipped for the college game,” Rebibo said.

“They know the daily rigors of understanding the training room, the weight room, the expectations, the management of your body, eating appropriately, working out, practicing, going to class and doing the things that are vital to their success. All of our seniors are going to be more equipped to understand the new environment, the new program, the new type of system and how to collaborate with new teammates. Trent and Robert are some of the greatest human beings that I’ve had the pleasure of coachI ing. think they are going to be just fine, and I expect them to have great careers.”

the team. Harvard-Westlake is so special because everybody here could have been the [best player] somewhere else, but everybody just wants to win here.”

Throughout the program’s history, very few players have transferred after ninth grade to play basketball at the school, the last player being Brady Dunlap ’23 who came in tenth grade. Hinton said being able to win without transfers requires players in the program to have confidence in their development.

“Players in our program need to trust the process,” Hinton said. “I feel like [trusting the process] is a huge thing at Harvard-Westlake because there aren’t transfers coming in senior year and taking the torch. Trent and I didn’t get a lot of on-court minutes until junior year, which was only [a] season ago. We trusted the process, we let the coaches teach us, and by keeping our heads down and working hard throughout our years of high school, it finally paid off.”

In the previous season, the team won their first California Interscho-

1/28/23

: Nike E

YBL Ex

Perry said his ultimate goal is to play in the National Basketball Association (NBA) one day.

lastic Federation (CIF) State Open Division championship in school history, defeating St. Joseph-Santa Maria High School 76-65 on March 11. This season, the Wolverines are currently undefeated with a record of 9-0 and are currently ranked as the best high school team in California according to MaxPreps.

Perry said winning a second consecutive title will naturally result from an approach to win every game possible.

“I’ve been dreaming nza about going to the league ever since I touched the basketball,” Perry said. “Of course, I’m always going to stay in the present and try to win all the games that I can in high school, and even in college, but the league is what drives me. I want to go to the league, and I’m working my best and working my hardest to pursue that goal.”

travaga

PRINTED WITH PERMISSION OF NICOLAS MONROE PRINTED WITH PERMISSION OF ROBERT HINTON AND TRENT PERRY

Dec. 13, 2023

hwchronicle.com/sports

D3 Sports

Girls’ soccer continues to improve

By William Liu

PRINTED WITH PERMISSION OF NICOLAS MONROE

IN HIS BAG: Wing Niccolo Kalischer-Stork ’24 drives through two defenders to the basket to score a layup. In a game against John Burroughs High School Nov. 29, the Wolverines beat the Bears 88-47 in Taper Gymnasium. The Wolverines are currently undefeated and ranked third in the state.

Boys’ basketball seeks back-to-back championships

By Hana Mehdi Williams The winter season is upon us and for students, that means our State Champions are back in the spotlight. Basketball at the school is arguably one of the most anticipated and high energy sports, and this upcoming season with Brady Dunlap and Jacob Huggins off to college, the big question that arises is – will we return home with the trophy once more?

The boys’ basketball team began its season at home against Palos Verdes High School and won 76-31 Nov. 14. The squad continued its streak for the next three games against Palisades High School, Carlsbad High

School and Polytechnic High School, winning all three games by 30 points or more. Head Coach David Rebibo said he initially expected the games to end with closer scores, and he is impressed by the way his team has competed so far.

“We scheduled these games hoping that they would be more competitive,” Rebibo said. “The standard is that improving is priority number one and we are constantly nit-picking at the details and evaluating, re-evaluating and challenging our guys to work hard, and that doesn’t change regardless of the score.”

While the team is on a winning streak, Forward Nik Khamenia ’25, said the team has to

stay resilient during challenges throughout the season and put in the same effort that they would for any other game.

“The biggest challenge for the season is probably staying consistent as a team,” Khamenia said. “A lot of factors play a role in that. We have to stay healthy and maintain the same level of focus even though we know there will be ups and downs.”

In the coming weeks, the team will face some of their closelyranked opponents, such as Sierra Canyon High School and Notre Dame High School. The team has also been invited to play in the Hoophall Classic in Massachusetts that same week, a prestigious tournament that

features some of the best high school basketball teams in the country, according to Rebibo.

Rebibo said he acknowledges that the team will have to start strategizing differently in light of upcoming travel games and highly competitive opponents in the future.

“For us, it is about managing bodies, making sure our guys are healthy and sound of mind, and our preparation has to be even more detailed, because we won’t be able to prepare at our normal rate,” Rebibo said. “Our guys are pretty resilient, and I don’t think there will be an issue for them to be up, excited and focused for all three of those games.”

• Continued on hwchronicle.com

The girls’ soccer team competed in the Best in the West Tournament on Dec. 9 at Newport Harbor High School. Following the team’s first 1-2 loss to Huntington Beach High School and subsequent 4 - 3 win to Temecula Valley High School, the team rose to an overall record of 3-2.

Defender Ashle Reese ’25 said her teammates have bonded well so far.

“I think the team chemistry is really good, especially for the start of the season,” Reese said. “I don’t think that there is as much separation between grade levels this year, and we are really trying to go out of our way to intermix ourselves during practices and gel together during games.”

Girls’ Soccer Program Head Richard Simms said he is optimistic that the team will be competitive although the early season has been tough.

“The first couple weeks are always a battle for us because we have kids who are finishing up their club commitments, so the first couple games for the season was all about waiting for everybody to get back,” Simms said. “Now that we have everybody back, we’re starting to get a rhythm, and the kids are playing well together.”

Midfielder Gemma Ozturk ’25 said she is excited to see her team develop throughout the season.

“I’m looking forward to building our team culture and finding our team style as we play,” Ozturk said. “We are successful when we are organized as a team defensively and [when] we are all on the same page throughout the game.”

Gisele Thompson signs deal with Angel City FC

By Eden Conner and Alex Dinh

Angel City Football Club (FC), Los Angeles’s National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) team, signed soccer player Gisele Thompson ’24 to a three-year contract Nov. 28.

The deal was signed days before Thompson’s 18th birthday on Dec. 2 so that Angel City FC could sign her without her entering the draft. Thompson will join her older sister Alyssa Thompson ’23 and Ali Riley ’06 on Angel City FC. In an interview with ESPN, Gisele Thompson said she is amazed that she will be playing professional soccer at such a young age.

“It feels surreal,” Thompson said. “I could have never imagined going pro at this young age. I’ve always thought, ‘Oh, I’m going to Stanford. I’m going to college.’

This was never even a thought in my mind that I would go pro this early, but I’m so excited.”

Gisele Thompson will finish her last semester of classes while playing for Angel City FC. Head of Athletics Terry

Barnum said the Thompson sisters’ early achievements are a testament to the school’s academic and athletic prowess.

“To be a professional athlete and compete at that level is difficult,” Barnum said. “It shows that if you are an elite athlete, and you want to try to compete at the highest level, we’re a place that can help you in that journey. The Thompsons saw that when they chose to send their daughters here, and more and more families are seeing that if you want a great athletic [and academic] experience, HarvardWestlake is a place that you should take a look at.”

Girls Soccer Program Head Richard Simms said he is confident in Gisele Thompson’s ability to play at the professional level given her mature play style and work ethic.

“Gisele [Thompson] is a very unselfish player and person,” Simms said. “She is an amazing playmaker and facilitator and makes other people look good. It is so much fun to watch her play because to be spectacular and unselfish is a fun combination.”

PRINTED WITH PERMISSION OF ANGEL CITY FC INSTAGRAM

RAISING IT HIGH: Gisele Thompson ’24 poses for a photo shoot with her new jersey following a historic three-year contract with Angel City FC, a Los-Angeles-based soccer club, joining her sister Alyssa Thompson ’23.

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The Chronicle

Water polo looks past recent loss

Dec. 13, 2023

By Sabrina Hamideh

The girls’ water polo team lost to Corona Del Mar High School Dec. 7. After winning their first game of the season, the team lost 13-16.

Jordan LaCour ’24 said the team's preseason training helped them prepare for the upcoming season and bond as a team.

“We were performing well, we were winning games that we were supposed to win and competing in games that were against really difficult teams,” said LaCour. “We built up how we were as a team, and we definitely developed like this family aspect which is really hard to get to with such a young team because they're coming in such a new environment.”

LaCour said her injury may have hindered the team's performance during the game.

“I had an injured left hand, so I think I [will] perform a lot better next time,” LaCour said.

LaCour said losing the recent game was important for the team to learn early on since the team consists of a lot of underclassmen.

“Losing that second game against a really good team, [is a] good learning experience,” LaCour said. “Because we are such a young team, it's like good to have both the winning and the losing early on in the season just to like, kind of get that different perspective and different experience.”

Lilah Mitchell ’25 said that although the loss was upsetting, she looks forward to playing Corona Del Mar again this season.

“Obviously, there's an initial reaction of disappointment because no one likes to lose a game, especially when we were up for the first quarter,” Mitchell said. “So it's just now more [exciting] to have the goal to not lose to [Corona Del Mar] twice.”

Mitchell said she sees the upcoming game as a chance to improve their plays in practice.

“The very small mistakes that kind of cost us the game, like passes or body position, [we] will be fixing those mistakes in practice,” Mitchell said.

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WRESTLING WINNERS: Adrian Drouin ’26, 144 pounds, fights to break free from his Chaminade opponent's grip. The Wolverines and the Eagles held a match in the wrestling room Dec. 6, following the Downey 32 Way Tournament. The team will compete in the Tournament of Champions on Dec. 16.

Wrestling team continues to improve following massive results in Downey 32 Way tournament

By Nathan Wang

younger wrestlers to achieve similar results in the future.

The varsity wrestling team com“I think we [have] some good peted at the in-season Downey young prospects,” East said. “I 32 Way tournament Dec. 1–2. think me winning really shows [the Team captain Cutter East ’24, 150 freshmen] how far [they] can go. pounds, brought home first place If [they] try hard, [they] can really in his weight group. go out there and be a reAlec Avedissian ’25, 138 ally good athlete like me pounds, placed second, and do really well. The followed by captain and program's getting better, Features Editor Dylan and we're getting betGraff ’24, 157 pounds, ter athletes. You have to who placed fourth in his keep wrestling and you weight group. have to do your best.”

East said he prioriNoah Shallman ’27, tized offensive tactics 126 pounds, said the L. Wood but maintained strong leadership of upperCutter defense to win his classmen encourages East ’24 weight class. him to be devoted to “I just tried to stay low, and I the program. tried to make sure I had good de“[Cutter and Graff] are definitefense and that I didn't make any ly role models because when they mistakes,” East said. “I just worked [win] in a tournament, it gives you inside, [and] I kept pushing them something to look forward to in outside the circle. I was being your high school career,” Shallman aggressive. I wasn't letting them said. “They're also role models in make the first move. I was making the practice room and [as wrestlers] the first move.” because they train really hard, and East said he hopes his own suc- it helps you [stay] motivated to be cess can set a positive example for like them and train that hard.”

East said his win at the Downey tournament was a major accomplishment for his high school wrestling career.

“I usually win JV tournaments and preseason [tournaments],” East said. “Usually, I will place and seed in in-season tournaments.

[This win was], for the first time, legitimately getting first place.”

Head Coach Junior Amazan said East’s win at the tournament was a culmination of his training and improvement.

“I think Cutter is a gutsy kid,” Amazan said. “There's nothing that kid fears. It's been a long [journey] of just building and adding technique and really training. It’s finally starting to click for him and come together. He went out there and wrestled phenomenally. Once he got to the finals, he felt like he belonged, so he was able to put it together.”

Amazan said the team’s overall improvement is its commitment to slow but impactful training.

“The big thing is that every day we get in the wrestling room, and we want to get one percent better,”

Amazan said. “We want to add one thing that's going to make us a little bit better every time, and I think we've been doing that. Because of our focus on the process, we're seeing the results that we want.”

Avedissian said the team’s wrestlers are more committed to the program this year than in previous years.

“I think this year out of all years, we've been doing well with getting a lot of people to commit yearround,” Avedissian said. “We're just getting better every week, and now that we're in season, we have a lot of matches with top teams.”

Avedissian said he is optimistic that their new level of dedication will yield even better results on the mat. “[Recently,] we beat Palisades [Charter High School], which we haven't done for a very long time,” Avedissian said. “They're a declining program, which is opposite of our program. We've been putting in the work yearround, and our young guys are going to be here for a while. I think we're in good hands.”

Boys' soccer loses 2-1 in first defeat

By Eden Conner

The boys' soccer team started their season 2-0 with wins against Cathedral High School on Dec. 2 and Palos Verdes High School on Dec. 5. Last season, the team won the Mission League Championship and made it to the second round of the California Interscholastic Federation Southern Section (CIF-SS) playoff. Though the group is missing a few juniors due to preseason injuries during these games, most of the squad returned and will compete for the remainder of the season.

The team’s leading scorer last season was Forward Theo Ottoson ’25, who scored 22 goals over the course of the season. Ottoson said he feels a greater responsibility to look out for younger players given his seniority.

“There is a bit more of an expectation for not just me but all of the older guys to make sure the younger guys on our team can succeed,” Ottoson said. “It’s

not just about [my] own performance. It’s about leading by example and explaining what needs to be done.”

A few members of the team were injured over the summer but expect to be back this season. Midfielder Micah Rossen ’25 suffered a shin injury during a penalty kick over the summer, but said he expects to be back by the middle of December and is excited to get back onto the field.

“I just want to play,” Rossen said. “This is the most I’ve wanted to play soccer in my entire life, and due to the injury, I think I’m going to be working a lot harder. The best piece of advice that I got from last season was to play 100% the entire game, so I’ll definitely take that with me this year.”

Most of the students who helped lead the team last season graduated. Forward Race Serota ’25 said though it is difficult to know if the group will be able to recreate their past success, he is

impressed with the camaraderie he’s seen so far.

“There is a lot more team morale this year,” Serota said. “The seniors and juniors are connected, and the juniors bring in the sophomores and the freshmen more than the seniors did last year.”

The squad is led by Defensemen JT Federman ’24, Nathan Casamassima ’24 and Spencer Casamassima ’24. Federman said he is not worried about injuries given the team’s past experience with them and is glad to be leading the team with his co-captains.

“We’ve dealt with injuries before, so we know how to handle them,” Federman said. “We’ve got a lot of depth on this team, so I’m confident we can overcome these injuries. Once we have our guys back, the team will be really strong. There’s more responsibility as a captain, but I’ve got the two Casamassimas with me as captains. We also have a good foundation with seniors who care about this team.”

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IN THE AIR: Theo Ottosson ’25 jumps above a Palos Verdes defender in a game against the Sea Kings Dec. 5. The Wolverines won the game 2-0.

hwchronicle.com/sports

Dec. 13, 2023

Sports D7

INSIDE THE LAIR: AVAKIAN’S NCAA LEGACY

PRINTED WITH PERMISSION OF GEORGE AVAKIAN

By Connor Tang and Justin Tang Boys’ water polo alumni George Avakian ’20, a senior on the University of California, Berkeley (Cal) men’s water polo team, won the NCAA Division 1 Water Polo Championship on Dec. 3. The Bears’ 13-10 victory over the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) marks Avakian’s third consecutive NCAA championship. In addition to starting in this year’s game, Avakian played in Cal’s past two championship games as a reserve center. Avakian said he was grateful to contribute to Cal’s numerous water polo achievements.

“I’m really lucky to be a part of a historic program with a lot of tradition,” Avakian said. “The biggest thing is that [Cal men’s water polo] is more than just a team. It’s a program. Once I’m a part of this program, I’m a part of it for life.”

Before Avakian transferred to the school in his sophomore year to compete for former Aquatics Program Head Brian Flacks ’06, he played at La Cañada High School, starting on varsity his freshman year. Avakian said that despite his skill set, he had to adjust his mentality to fit Flacks’ coaching style once he reached the higher level.

“I was quickly humbled at

Harvard-Westlake when [Flacks] started coaching me,” Avakian said. “He taught me discipline and what hard work actually was. He taught me that it took more than just talent to be the best player that I could be. It’s all about the extra work. It’s meeting with the coaches to watch film. It’s the time you put in the weight room.”

Avakian was a prominent player at the school, winning backto-back California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) Division 1 Titles in 2018 and 2019 as a junior and senior. Avakian said learning how to work hard during high school has continued to drive his mentality at the NCAA level.

“I went from one of the best high school programs ever to one of the best college programs ever,” Avakian said. “Going into college, I wasn’t an amateur to being successful or winning.

My purpose [now] is to keep training and keep that reputation

of winning and success like I did in high school. It’s an important thing for me to carry the [school tradition] up to the next level and remember where I started from.”

Current boys’ water polo program head Jack Grover played Division 1 water polo for UCLA from 2013 to 2017, winning back-to-back championships in 2014 and 2015. He returned to UCLA as an assistant coach in 2018 and won another championship in 2020. Grover said that being able to compete at the collegiate level requires a significant amount of dedication.

“If you’re playing water polo on the West Coast and you’re actually competing for championships, [training is] year-round,” Grover said. “You get two weeks off at the beginning of the summer and two at the end, sometimes. If you don’t have a basic understanding of how to train on a daily basis, it becomes very

hard to [be successful] in college.

Training hard is non-negotiable.”

Before going back to Cal to play for the 2023 season, Avakian returned to his high school program to assist Grover in off-season training. Grover said Avakian’s presence on the pool deck as a distinguished alumni was valuable to players.

“When [Avakian] was here, he’d get in with the centers or play on the perimeter, so he could get a little bit of fitness,” Grover said. “For someone who had already won two [titles] and was on the men’s national team, [Avakian] had every reason to be content. Yet [during the summer], he pushed himself in new ways in every practice that he was in and wanted to give back.

For our guys to have been with that [standard], it set a great example.”

Goalie James Peace III ’24, who recently committed to play Division 1 water polo at Cal, said Avakian was very receptive to the younger players.

“He’s more than just a great water polo player,” Peace said. “He’s also just a great person overall. One thing about [Avakian] is he’s 6’2 and 250 pounds, just absolutely massive and intimidating, but on the inside, he’s really smart, cares a lot about people and works very hard in and out of the pool.”

Although Avakian is a senior, NCAA rules allow some players

another year of eligibility because of the pandemic. He said that playing another year will allow him to continue developing his abilities both as an athlete and a leader. “[Being able to play] a fifth year is really special,” Avakian said. “I could win a [fourth straight championship]. Now that I have four years of college water polo under my belt, I could take that experience and be really good next year.”

Peace who will join Avakian next year in his fifth year, said he is eager for the opportunity to compete with him at Berkeley for a championship.

“When I was in eighth grade, I always wanted to watch him and the rest of his class play together,” Peace said. “I never expected to be possibly playing with [Avakian] because he was just so much older than me. It’s really special to get to play with [him], because [my teammates and I] have always looked up to him. Not only as a center, but as a leader of a championship team and a well-rounded person.”

Likewise, Avakian said he is looking forward to having another alumnus from the school join him in Berkeley.

“I love how excited [Peace] is to come to Cal,” Avakian said. “It’ll be cool to see someone where I’m from be with me at the next level.

It’s going to be fun.”

THE CHRONICLE’S WOLVERINES TO WATCH: Winter athlete SHOWCASE ALEC AVEDiSSIAN ’25

Boys’ Wrestling

Jaida pryor ’24

As one of the few seniors on the squad, Pryor is a leader on and off the pitch for the girls. She is a fouryear varsity defender that has played alongside star defenders throughout her high school career. With a young group of girls, her leadership will be fundamental in the Wolverines’ quest for another Mission League title.

Alec Avedissian ’25 brings ferocious intensity and passion to the mat when the squad needs him the most. He was dominant against Palisades High School, nailing a crucial pin to seal the Wolverines’ early season victory. He will be a key contributor to the developing group down the line at the 138 pound class.

DOM BENTHO ’26

Boys’ Basketball Dom Bentho ’26 has some big shoes to fill, replacing former center Jacob Huggins ’23, as the new squad tries to go for back-to-back championships. They like to play a fastpaced style of basketball that will clash with Bentho’s personal style of play, but he will be forced to adapt nevertheless as the new big.

Girls’ Soccer

PIPER FEDERMAN ’27

GIRLS’ Water Polo As a freshman with big minutes on a varsity squad, Piper Federman ’27 adds a ton of athleticism to the team. In addition to being the only left-handed attacker on the team, she is one of the tallest among the girls.

She is splitting time in the goal, but expect to see her playing on the right side of the pool as an attacker.

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D8 Sports

The Chronicle

Dec. 13, 2023

WOLVERINES ONLY

BY JOSH & ARI ENGELBERG

PRINTED WITH PERMISSION OF ARI ENGELBERG

I have been playing basketball for nearly my entire life, and throughout the whole journey, my dad has been there to coach me. When I was young, he was the head coach of my rec team at Balboa Park. He taught me the fundamentals of basketball, from shooting mechanics to dribbling moves. As I grew older and transitioned to elementary school, he helped coach Elite Sports Club, my club team, and was present at every one of my games at Curtis School during the winter.

My dad has been one of the varsity assistant coaches at the school for over 20 years. Ever since I was a kid, it was my goal to come to the school and, among other things, be on the varsity basketball team and win a State Championship with my dad as a coach. Attending so many games and seeing my dad as one of the coaches motivated me to work as hard as I could accomplish this dream.

As a freshman, I started on junior varisty (JV), learning the ins and

outs of our program’s offensive and defensive schemes. As a sophomore, I again began the year on JV. This time, I was more confident in my abilities to lead the team, mostly because of the training my dad helped me with all summer. Despite being frustrated with my situation, my dad explained that playing on JV would be a better overall experience for me both in terms of playing time and developing my skills.

Finally, about halfway through the year, I was called up to varsity and was once again playing under my dad. At first, it was a strange dynamic because I wasn’t sure how to communicate with him at practice.

Still, he was helpful in explaining things to me that I didn’t understand.

Fast forward, I achieved my goal of winning the Open Division State Championship last spring. Sharing that moment with all my teammates and my dad was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.

Walking into Taper Gymnasium every day and seeing our championship banner hanging with both my name and my dad’s name is truly special.

The only thing left is to do it again this year.

I began coaching basketball at the school 21 years ago. One year after I started teaching U.S. History, I walked into the Athletic Department and asked Greg Hillard, the then boys basketball coach, if I could be a part of his program.

He asked if I’d had any basketball coaching experience, and I said, "No." He then asked what level I wanted to coach at, and I said, “Varsity, of course.” For some reason, he agreed, and I became an assistant coach on a team that won the 2004 California Interscholastic Federation Championship. That year, I got to work with my first group of players and develop relationships that I still have to this day. I loved every minute of it.

After my second season coaching, my son Josh was born in the summer of 2005. I remember Jen, my wife, bringing Josh to the school basketball games as a baby. During Josh’s first few years of playing recreational basketball, I coached

his team and did my best to make sure he loved basketball as much as I did. But I think it's good for kids to experience different coaches — including coaches who are not your dad. When Josh decided to focus on basketball during seventh grade, I began to imagine a day when he might make it to varsity, and I’d have a chance to coach him again.

That time came early in his sophomore year when he was called up to varsity from JV. Last year, Josh spent the whole year on varsity, and we went 33-2 and won the Open Division State Championship. For a coach, a State Championship is the pinnacle of achievement. To be able to experience that run to the State title with Josh on the team was truly a gift that I know few coaches get to enjoy. It’s hard to describe the pride in seeing your son develop from the little kid shooting on the 4’ basket in our living room to the young man now part of one of the best teams in school history.

This year’s team is talented and off to a great start. Josh and I are enjoying one more season together and hope that the team can repeat last year’s success.