Seniors 2021 KEQ by Knight Errant

KEQ Seniors 2021 COVER_BACK.indd 2

4/6/21 3:04 PM

Writer Jacob Runman Designer Emily Barron

how seniors have changed.indd 2

4/6/21 3:02 PM

ince the class of 2021 first arrived on campus, there have been plenty of changes to BSM as a whole. New areas of the school were built, such as the Atrium and the Cube, and the entire school system had to change due to the pandemic. Despite this, the most important changes are not visible at first glance. The most significant change was in the maturity and character of this resilient senior class. It is safe to say that the class of 2021 was impacted the most by the pandemic. Getting half of their junior year taken away and having hybrid classes during their senior year, it would be easy to be cynical. But, when asked about the situation, most seniors stay optimistic and look forward to a better future. “Yeah, COVID is tough, and I’ll never get my senior year back... I learned a valuable lesson that anything can be taken away; I learned I have to deal with that. I’m sure it will help me in the future,” senior Simon Goodmanson said. With the school year coming to an end, many seniors have their plans for the next year set. Most feel confident and eager to take the next step in their journey. They were not always this ready. In fact, most seniors were uneasy about going off to college until recently. “College is such a great opportunity, but it will be hard leaving everyone I know...As I got older the less I worried about it, and now I’m just ready to go,” senior Alexis Brixius said. While BSM itself played a large role in preparing the class of 2021 for life, it was their own classmates that really helped them grow as people. Having good friends is vital to a good high school experience. They either push peers towards trouble or keep them away from it. “I feel like I got so lucky [going to BSM]...I love my friends, and we help each other be better people,” senior Sarah McGurl said. Through their four years together, the senior class overcame hardships successfully by working together. They kept each other in check and grew up as a family. BSM is proud and excited to see the great things they accomplish next.

how seniors have changed.indd 3

4/6/21 3:02 PM

RED-STYLE

LEARNING

WRITTEN BY CONNOR RAHILL WITH REPORTING BY FLINT FROHMAN, JACKIE BUCARO, JAMES CALLAHAN, JOSH SULLIVAN, NATE CHARLES, GRACE EIGNER, COLIN STRAUSS, BRADY WINE, SAM DECKER, CHARLIE DAMBERG, MEGAN CORNELL, ALLI VOSS, AND JULIA SCHWARTZ DESIGNER EMILY BARRON

his year, students were given the opportunity to take a unique new class in BSM’s curriculum: RED Capstone. RED stands for Research, Entrepreneurship, and Design. Students who took the class were provided with time and resources to work on any kind of productive project they desire, whether it’s forming a study, creating technological innovations, or kick-starting a business. In RED Capstone, students are not taught in the traditional classroom structure. The teachers do not lecture and no notes are taken; students work their way through their respective projects with limited guidance or assistance. The intention of this class is to help students grow in their ability to work by themselves without needing to follow an instructor. “Students get to follow their curiosity and passion, and that’s usually quite inspiring to witness,” RED teacher Ms. Anne Dougherty said. Because RED Capstone is such an open-ended class, students end up working on totally different projects, which brings a lot of diversity to the course’s subjects. “No two engineering students will ever have the same experience because no two students in our program are the same,” Dougherty said. Senior Tom Worrell has decided to create a shredder that shreds 3D prints and recycles them so they can be used again by the 3D printer. As 3D prints occasionally break or become unusable, this shredder gives them a new purpose and allows them to be used to create a new print. Worrell wanted to create this design to make BSM’s engineering department more efficient and self-sustainable. “Because we have so many prints that don’t end up working … being able to recycle our own film sounded like a good thing to save money and plastic,” Worrell said. Speaking of sustainability, senior Ryan Kraemer utilized resources from RED Capstone to build a windmill to help power BSM. He plans on placing it on the roof of the school, which would provide wind power to something minor, such as cameras. Through this project, Kraemer has not only learned how to create an energy source, but he has also pitched the idea to BSM’s administration and worked with the city and neighborhood to ensure legal permission to set up a windmill. Another student trying to be more eco-friendly is senior Sage Waymire-Rozman. According to Waymire-Rozman, the world produced 13 million tons of textile waste annually, and 95% of that waste can be recycled or reused. The fashion industry is one of the biggest contributors to global pollution; in response, Waymire-Rozman has started to make bags

Red Compilation.indd 2

4/6/21 3:31 PM

out of recycled clothing. Waymire-Rozman lacks sewing experience, which makes it difficult for her to create these bags; nevertheless, she has accepted this challenge and hopes to carry on the project through college. “I am excited to see where this goes and how much I am able to sell. I want to bring awareness to this issue so that people can learn the importance of recycling their used clothing,” Waymire-Rozman said. Senior Oriana Sampson has opted to take a different route and conduct a research study. Sampson utilized software to analyze speech patterns to see if it could figure out if someone was lying about something. Using clips of online content creators playing the video game Among Us, Sampson analyzed the similarities and differences between samples of the gamers lying to one another in-game. Sampson wanted to perform this study because researchers rarely study this kind of lying behavior. “Most studies on lying are centered around pathological liars, so I wanted to see the behaviors of people who don’t lie as regularly,” Sampson said. Like Sampson, senior Matthew Virginia is also conducting his own study. Virginia is researching the effect that COVID-19 and distanced learning has on students’ mental health. To carry out the study, Virginia has sent a short survey to BSM students as well as other schools in the area. Virginia hopes that the result of his study will help the administration of BSM and these other schools take measures to make sure their students aren’t too stressed out by school and are in a healthy mental state. “When you notice that your students are stressed, hopefully … there will be some incentive to change and to make things easier for students. To help the general student base out was my main motivation,” Virginia said. Training for soccer can be not only difficult and tiring, but also expensive. Senior Hans Backes decided that he wanted to find a cost effective way to practice free kicks. On Amazon, a free kick practice wall generally costs over $100. Backes, who

Red Compilation.indd 3

has played for BSM’s varsity soccer team for three years, would rather keep it under $30. To do so, Backes is designing a wall using commonly found cheap materials like PVC piping and sand bags. The wall has to be sturdy enough to stand when struck by a speeding soccer ball, yet light enough to move around, and still be affordable. “My aim is to keep my product under $30 so that people of all incomes are able to effectively practice,” Backes said. Seniors Andrew Forby and Max Hoffman are designing and building an exoskeleton for their project. The exoskeleton is planned to be a kind of suit that helps the wearer carry and move heavy objects. Their design would increase the maximum weight a person can carry and also allow them to work for longer periods of time. The exoskeleton would increase efficiency in physical labor and allow the human body to exceed its current limits. The pair has found success in working together as they each are working in different fields to achieve their goal and create the exoskeleton. “We work together on the overall design and concepts of how it will work, but we each have areas we are in charge of. Max is in charge of most of the physical design, things like the frame and how the pieces we make will fit together. I’m handling the sensors, electrical components, and code,” Forby said. Two other seniors, Hampton Weber and Alex Bronkala, have joined up to complete their RED project. Weber and Bronkala are designing a website called Hatch that is designed to help young people who want to start up a business. Weber and Bronkala are both interested in starting their own businesses, so they understand how difficult the start-up process is for a student. Hatch would help aspiring business people understand networking, among other things, and provide them with the resources for getting their business off the ground. “Students who have the intention of starting a business but don’t have the tools to do it can get help on our website and simplify what is usually a complicated

process,” Weber said. Another aspiring entrepreneur, senior Nate Charles, has taken advantage of RED Capstone’s resources to start his own business: Minne-soda Beverage Bikes. Charles had already begun the process of starting up his business when BSM introduced RED Capstone into the curriculum, and he knew the class would help him with his ambitions. For his business, Charles plans on riding his bike around local lakes and parks and selling cold beverages. Naturally, Minnesota’s chilling fall and winter put Charles’s business at a temporary standstill, but he’s hopeful for booming business coming soon. “The weather and the lack of awareness of the business made it less than ideal, but I am very optimistic about this spring and summer,” Charles said. RED Capstone can also be used as a support structure to help students publish their literary work. Senior Mimi Wendorf is writing a fantasy novel with the help from RED Capstone’s resources. Dougherty helps Wendorf by giving her writing advice as well as connecting her with authors and publishers who give her professional advice. The class also motivates Wendorf to work harder and write more. “I would’ve written this either way. The RED Capstone just gave me class time to do it, and it gives me more motivation because it is a class, so I think ‘Oh, I need to write today…’ otherwise I would’ve procrastinated,” Wendorf said. Wendorf isn’t the only writer taking RED Capstone. Senior Alana Kabaka is publishing a poetry book she’s been compiling for years. She uses RED Capstone to have class time to write poems, design her book, and do research on publishing. Kabaka has submitted her poetry to contests in the past and her success in these competitions has inspired her to continue writing. Kabaka’s poems touch on subjects such as current social justice issues, mental health, and toxic relationships. “I write poetry on the topics that I talk about because I feel like they are important and a lot of people shy away from them,” Kabaka said.

4/6/21 3:31 PM

Special events.indd 2

4/6/21 3:48 PM

he pandemic has split the class of 2021 into two cohorts, so it has been difficult for them to spend time together. But in the coming months, BSM’s administration and student council are working to implement activities that will give seniors a chance to create memories as a full group. On March 1, the senior class gathered at Oak Hill park for a two hour winter activity, organized by BSM’s administration. The park offers many fun activities and gave seniors a chance to enjoy the winter weather. “There [was] sledding, two different rinks for them to skate, and... hot chocolate,” Assistant Principal Cami Dahlstrom said. In the spring, BSM’s administration will continue to implement new activities for the class of 2021. Traditionally, BSM seniors gather together before graduation to practice the ceremony. This year, BSM’s administration is hopeful that they can extend the practice into a fun event. “We are looking at extending [the practice] into more of an event. Just to have seniors on campus for one last time, they can sign yearbooks and just have a fun time,” Dahlstrom said. As well as these new additions, BSM’s student council is adapting traditional activities to fit with COVID guidelines. One such activity is prom; the class of 2021’s junior prom was canceled last year, so BSM is taking important steps to ensure that it will not be canceled again. This year, prom will be held outside. “ For prom, we have selected the St. Louis Park Rec Center outdoor rink to host the dance. We plan to have food trucks and possibly a grand march (walking down a stage with your date),” Student Council Executive Treasurer Lauren Hawkinson said in an email interview. Another activity seniors typically look forward to is decision day. In early May, students submit their final decisions to their future college, and they come to school wearing apparel from their school. Typically, seniors listen to speakers, have lunch, and take photos with peers who are attending the same school. This year, the student council is working to emulate a normal decision day experience, while still adhering to public safety guidelines. “Decision day has a set date; we are just in the works of figuring out who will speak, other activities, and how we will take pictures as a group/with the people we are going to college with,” Hawkinson said. Later in the year, the administration will release details for graduation and baccalaureate mass. In prior years, graduations have been held outdoors; this year will be no different. Like the student council, BSM’s administration is working to move as many senior events outdoors as possible. “We just want to make sure that if things ramp up, we don’t have to shut it down and cancel any more events. The more things we get outside, the more that will actually be able to happen,” Dahlstrom said. BSM hopes that the coming spring quarter will give seniors a chance to strengthen their bond as a class and create memories together. “Our main hope is to create some memorable events for the seniors to be together as a class since they haven’t had the opportunity to do so in a year,” Dahlstrom said.

Special events.indd 3

4/6/21 3:48 PM

THREE SENIORS REFLECT ON THEIR EXPERIENCES AT BSM AS STUDENTS OF COLOR WRITER JACKIE BUCARO DESIGNER EMILY BARRON

poc experience @ bsm.indd 2

4/6/21 3:12 PM

tudents of color have spoken about their difficult experiences at BSM in years past, with published accounts of their struggles at a majority-white school appearing in 2012, 2015, and 2020. This year, as BSM makes more strides towards racial equity within our school, three seniors reflect on their experiences as students of color at BSM. At BSM, racism or racial insensitivity doesn’t generally appear as bold-faced racial slurs and race-based bullying; it is more often found in racially insensitive jokes. Comments considered borderline are often brushed off as jokes rather than genuine sentiments. “[Students] know when to be sly and sneaky and put those comments in, where the teacher won’t hear… Their timing is just perfect… the names, and stuff like that. And people saying things and calling it a joke or saying it’s not a big deal,” senior Xela Gunvalson said. These insensitive comments may come from a place of racism, but often, students find that they come from a place of apathy. Some white students do not feel they have any obligation to understand the experiences of their person of color (POC) peers. “There are [some] students who don’t care, and they make it known that they don’t care and think the whole idea of discussing diversity is stupid. I heard students during our Black History Month speeches last year whining to their classmates… that dismissal of the POC experience, I’ve heard that a lot,” senior Sophie Coleman said. Of course, not every white student at BSM is apathetic to understanding the student of color experience. Many demonstrate their support by involving themselves in groups designed to discuss societal issues, often touching on racial problems in the nation and beyond. “A group of younger students has started the Red Knights for Human Rights Club, which is awesome, [and] that also encompasses other disenfranchised and oppressed groups, like the LGBTQ+ community,” Coleman said. BSM’s Affinity Group, which is entering its sixth year, has traditionally been a place for BSM’s students of color to spend time with other POC students around BSM. The club has been a place for self-expression, mentorship, and development for

poc experience @ bsm.indd 3

its members. “[Affinity Group] was… one of the few places at Benilde that I felt like I belonged. It helped me in my true development. The teachers in Affinity helped me get back on track when I was falling behind. They gave me many opportunities to develop as a person but also to help me with my own identity,” senior Johan Dominguez-Lopez said. This year, Affinity Group is shifting its focus from purely a student of color group to become a group dedicated to community-wide dialogue about racial issues at BSM. “Based on student feedback… there’s a desire to bring the conversation to the larger community. We’re hoping that one Tuesday a month will be a community-wide conversation… [to] understand everyone’s point of view,” Affinity Group coordinator and Spanish teacher Matthew McMerty-Brummer said. Expanding the dialogue about race to the entire community is the goal for many students of color at BSM, not just the goal of a single club. In fact, some feel that breaking apathetic white students out of their echo chambers is the first step towards true racial equity at BSM. “[Some students] shelter themselves, cut themselves off. They’re not willing to listen, that’s the thing. They kind of just joke around, make fun… Some of them… create their own narrative on people like me, which is completely opposite to what I am,” Dominguez-Lopez said. Although some students are unwilling to engage in discussions about race, students of color have found great support in many teachers and faculty members around BSM. “I know a teacher in every single department I can go and talk to. It’s not, like, every single teacher. It’s the ones that you’ve built up relationships with, the teachers that you’ve talked to… they’ll just listen, which I appreciate,” Dominguez-Lopez said. In the past, students of color have felt frustrated about their time at BSM. The general perception of the administration in years past has been of a system that sides with white students in nearly every incident. “I don’t want to drag BSM through the mud here, but I also need to make sure my words aren’t misconstrued. BSM’s past reactions, I do think have been very poor… and BSM recognizes that. Especially regarding disciplinary action… an example needs to be set. They dealt with it quietly, which I understand, but at the same time, people of color needed to know that you’re on their side,” Coleman said. The new 2020 DEI Plan is a major step for students of color at BSM. The updated inclusion efforts began over the summer, with discussions between students of color and DEI consultant Ms. Kendra Dodd. These discussions later expanded into community-wide discussions, including white students. As the plan kicks into action, the only regret of students of color is that it didn’t happen sooner. “Right now, they’re going on decent progress. I was part of the group interviewing certain candidates, like Kendra Dodd… At this point, we’re making good progress, but I feel like it could’ve happened sooner, one hundred percent,” Dominguez-Lopez said. BSM’s students of color have had both positive and negative experiences at BSM, but as these three seniors prepare to graduate, they each offer words of encouragement to future generations. Some remind younger students to hold onto their identities. “Do not be afraid of who you are. Just because you may be excluded by other groups of students … for [your mannerisms], for slang, your skin color, or your culture… it’s not strange, it’s your identity, so do not forget that,” Dominguez-Lopez said. Others encourage future students of color to remember the upsides of a BSM education, especially at a time when BSM is actively working to support its students of color. “I would say that the opportunities are really great… there are so many options that you can do, the education is so advanced, stuff like that. I would say, building relationships with your teacher… They’re very understanding when you get to know them, and they can help you with anything you need,” Gunvalson said. Still others remind students of color that although their experience may be spotted with struggles and setbacks, they are by no means invisible or alone at BSM. “Understand that you don’t have to do it alone. There are other students of color you can talk to, there are upperclassmen of color, there are teachers and faculty members who are one hundred percent willing to talk with you and help you. Use your voice… If you see something that needs to change, go for it; don’t be shy about it… As students of color, it is our job to leave [BSM] much better than we found it,” Coleman said.

4/6/21 3:12 PM

POSITIVE E WRITER NICHOLAS MARINARO DESIGNER EMILY BARRON

2020 HAS BEEN A NIGHTMARE. FROM ITS DAWN WITH THE CO PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION, FEW DAYS PASSED WITHOUT UNREST. HO YEAR. HERE IS AN OPTIMISTIC VIEW OF

Family Bonding A large part of the worldwide state of lockdown was that households were together for long periods of time. With the closings of school, work, restaurants, and many other destinations, families were forced to spend their days together. For some , being cooped up with the whole family for months on end served only to strike a divide in their relationships. However, many families were able to connect on a level impossible before this forced union. Increased conversations, meals enjoyed together, and family game nights strengthened many family relationships.

Pet Adoption During the prolonged periods of time spent at home, many individuals and families felt the longing for a new furry companion. Many turned to animal shelters to find a pet with whom to spend their time in quarantine. As the result is grim for animals who are unable to be placed in homes, this uptick in pet adoptions has saved countless animals from euthanasia. Some pet shelters have reported as much as 100% increases in adoptions this year over 2019. Although it may have been a rough year for mankind, it was not so for man’s best friend!

positive.indd 2

4/6/21 3:18 PM

E EVENTS

THE COVID PANDEMIC TO ITS CONCLUSION WITH A CONTENTIOUS EST. HOWEVER, THERE WERE CERTAINLY POSITIVE ASPECTS OF THE VIEW OF 2020 AS A GLASS HALF FULL.

Voter Turnout The 2020 presidential election was, as has been the theme for the past several elections, brutal. Insults, tweets, and controversy seemed to rule. However, although not nearly as publicized, what really ruled this year was the strength of our democracy. A presidency that is designed to be representative of the people was decided by the most people ever. Atop the list of high percentages of voter turnout was Minnesota, with 74% of the voting eligible population choosing to vote. Nationally, as well, the number of people showing up to vote topped historical lists.

Vaccine Advancements Once the COVID pandemic began, one of the most pertinent questions has been: “How long until we have a vaccine?” In the case of COVID, 5-10 years before a vaccine would likely have meant millions of deaths and unimaginable economic losses. However, due to the diligence of scientists across the globe and the use of a different type of vaccine, mRNA, three different companies made vaccines available to the American public in well under a year. This accomplishment is not only important to the global recovery prognosis from COVID but future infectious diseases, too.

positive.indd 3

4/6/21 3:18 PM

Writer Charlie Juckniess Designer Emily Barron

The Story Behind Matthew Souka’s Marvelous Mane “”[Souka] hides all

of his homework in his hair that’’s why it’’’s missing.” - Jack Dougherty

Hair.indd 2

4/9/21 12:27 PM

enilde-St. Margaret’s: a Catholic high school in which 1,173 students dwell, all of which are unique from each other in some way or another. One student in particular is distinct from his classmates for multiple reasons because he has one trait that literally sticks out from amongst the rest. That trait would be his luscious locks. “I love my afro, simple as that. All of the compliments I get from the people I pass by is definitely a bonus. I also enjoyed the super powers it provides and the warmth it gives me during the winter. I also like the fact that it adheres to my personality—unique and bubbly. Finally, I enjoy the way my afro is low maintenance,” senior hair-phenom Matthew Souka said. Souka touched base on the fact that his hair holds powers far beyond anything the average human being could perform, let alone even fathom. “My afro has many different powers. For one, I can store snacks for the school day and other necessities within the follicles of my hair. My hair also gives me super strength and makes me incredibly light on my feet. My hair can do really whatever I’d like it to,” Souka said. This mane has become a school wide phenomenon where classmates of Souka have come up with their own inquiries as to what sort of things Souka’s hair is capable of and what it may be hiding. “I think Souka’s hair gives him super strength or the telekinesis,” senior classmate Sam Decker said. “I think Souka hair turns into a disco ball when he’s happy,” senior Parker Skelton said. Longtime friend and classmate Jack Dougherty has his own theory. “He hides all of his homework in his hair that’s why it’s missing,” Dougherty said. And these are only a few of the hypotheses regarding Souka’s hairstyle. In all seriousness, though, Souka’s hair has become a “can’t miss” staple of Benilde-St. Margaret’s hallways. Throughout Souka’s early high school journey his hair didn’t change too much. Souka rocked the “buzz cut” his freshman year, sophomore year, and the majority of his junior year until Governor Tim Walz initiated the “stay at home act” in late March 2020. “With the barber shops being closed for coronavirus, growing my hair out to this length and style seemed perfect,” Souka said. Quarantine wasn’t the only thing that influenced Souka’s sudden hair change. Souka says a particular celebrity sparked his interest in the revolutionary hairstyle. “I’d like to say I’m a basketball fanatic and after seeing some old Dr. J [Julius Irving] highlights, I thought his signature afro was rad,” Souka said. Julius Irving was the primary source of inspiration, though Souka says celebrities like Quest Love, Redfoo (the main guy in LMFAO), and most notably Bob Ross influenced his decision in growing out his scrumptious hairstyle. “I love Bob Ross, don’t get it twisted, but I don’t enjoy being compared to him because his hair is FAKE,” Souka said. Many students fear Souka may cut his hair in the coming months due to its rapid growth and vision obscuring nature, but Souka was quick to calm the press in this short statement. “I know my hair is long; I’d say it is about 6 or 7 inches and still growing, but don’t worry I don’t plan to cut it anytime soon,” Souka said.

Hair.indd 3

4/9/21 12:27 PM

WRITER GEORGE WOLFE DESIGNER EMILY BARRON

Senior Sliding.indd 2

4/6/21 3:37 PM

he infamous “senior slide” is a time joy and freedom; teachers fear it and students long for it. It’s a time when seniors can finally release the stresses that high school gave them over the long three and a half years. They can relax as they watch their grades plummet with very little repercussions. With the strange COVID times and mixed-up schedule, BSM students are experiencing a variety of different slides this year. Senior Alex Bronkala is committing to the traditional slide of shooting for a C and turning in no assignments, while fellow senior Lucy Hanson has chosen to check out in class and just turn in subpar “completed ” assignments. Hanson looked forward to the senior slide along with the senior benefits.“I have been looking forward to the senior slide since freshman year because I was jealous of all the seniors that got to leave school early, come in late after sleeping in a little bit, or leave to get lunch and come back,” Hanson said. With becoming a senior Hanson has also dropped her course load drastically, easing up on the amount of work she’s had to endure. “I’ve only taken three classes every quarter,” Hanson said. While Hanson’s approach to senior sliding may be about looking forward to benefits and lack of effort and commitment, fellow classmate Bronkala has a little different approach to this

Senior Sliding.indd 3

year. “Since getting accepted to college I do the bare minimum to pass classes, just enough to not get my admission revoked,” Bronkala said. The stresses of school are no longer an issue for Bronkala. “I no longer have the patience to stress and busy work of high school, it’s time to sit back and relax,” Bronkala said. They may view this year differently, and both may be sliding in their own way, but they found common ground when it came to the effects of COVID on their school year. “COVID has made the senior slide more slidey. On virtual days, when you have access to your couch and TV, the senior slide really kicks in,” Hanson said. Bronkala found himself getting more and more unmotivated as the year has gone on because of hybrid learning. “[It has] definitely has made the senior slide worse cause I can get unmotivated a lot and find myself losing interest in school even more while at home,” Bronkala said. The spring semester is mostly about joy and relaxation as seniors wind down their final classes at BSM; however, teachers don’t necessarily share in those great feelings. Whether they are anti-slide or not, BSM teachers still give it their all to provide the best experience for their students regardless of the students’ efforts. “I don’t see why I should put in all this hard work and effort when the seniors don’t seem to care or put in any effort, but I still will because I care,” math teacher Mr. Sam Fulco said.

4/6/21 3:37 PM

WRITER LAUREN HAWKINSON

facebook groups.indd 2

DESIGNER EMILY BARRON

4/6/21 2:58 PM

“

Hey everyone my name is Lauren Hawkinson, and my hobbies include exercising, hanging out with friends, etc.” As college decisions roll around, seniors begin to join their chosen college’s Facebook group to meet and share interests with other students; most use this opportunity to find a potential roommate for their first year at college. For the first time, these students are downloading and using Facebook. Most teens and young adults use Instagram and Snapchat, while Facebook gets pushed aside and labeled as the “old person” app. Therefore, it has come as a shock that the most common way to reach out to other students attending the same college is Facebook. To start off, students search for their chosen school and request to be added to the group. Most groups are private and are not affiliated with the university. Once students get their bearings, they click on “post” to share pictures and a short, or long, intro about themselves. Not only is the group a place to find a roommate, it is also a place to ask questions about the school and about its courses, although most students refer to the university’s website as a general guide. “I’m finding people through the Facebook group and

facebook groups.indd 3

Instagram. I think it’s super helpful to be a part of a social media group before going to college. It’s nice to just chat to people and find some common interests before being on campus in the fall,” senior Grace Bauer said. Facebook is not the only way to find a roommate. Many students decide to room with a current friend, or choose to use another social media platform. “I don’t think Facebook is very helpful. I found most of my friends and a roommate over Instagram and Snapchat groups since that is what more people are used to,” senior Myka Field said. Some students go through their university to search for a roommate. “I have not found a roommate yet, but most people find their roommate through the university’s website. They have you create profiles and you can search for people with similar interests who you could room with. As for social media groups, I think it could be helpful but if I’m being honest, I would only look on social media after finding someone I might want to room with on the university’s website. I think social media would be a good secondary source to find roommates,” senior Daniel McCoy said. Otherwise, students can play the lottery and get a random assignment from their school. The lottery system was the

norm when current BSM Spanish teacher Ms. Alison Terrell attended college. “I did not find my roommate like most do nowadays. I had no choice in the matter and was assigned two roommates at Boston College freshman year. They had a housing shortage at the time and for the first semester we had to fit three girls in a dorm room meant for two,” Terrell said. Though “blind” roommate assignments can seem daunting, the luck of the draw can work in your favor, not excluding the occasional roommate horror story. “I had an excellent roommate. For some reason we got only one TV station to display (and we were too cheap to pay for cable), but I remember we got to watch Iowa State University games and we both appreciated that sport,” science teacher Mr. Porisch said. When choosing a roommate, it is important to self reflect and determine what will work best. If students need any help, they can follow these guidelines from BSM math teacher Mr. John Groess. “Pick someone who you match with when it comes to sharing or not sharing food, sleep times/routines, and about having people in the room or not (do you want to have tons of friends over or not all the time). After that everything else works out,” Groess said.

4/7/21 3:06 PM

WRITERS CHARLIE DAMBERG AND GEORGE WOLFE DESIGNER EMILY BARRON

igh school sports have brought joy, tears, success, and honor to students for decades; the class of 2021 is not apart from the rest. State championship wins, state championship losses, section championships, section champion losses––this class has had its fair share of extraordinary experiences, none of which would be possible without the great leadership and talent of these student athletes. Great student athletes often get a chance to continue their athletic career in college. Cultivating a collegiate athlete is a great source of pride for a school, so we are happy to showcase these student-athletes and their college commitments.

Disclaimer: The Knight Errant is reporting from lists provided by head coaches to the Athletic Department; this story does not necessarily include every collegiate athlete––as some either opted out of being featured or were not made known to us. PATRICK BURNS – LACROSSE

ALLISON VOSS - SOCCER

MYKA FIELD - DANCE

atrick (Paddy) Burns has been a star for the BSM lacrosse team since freshman year. He plays forward for both BSM as well as the Under Armour All-American Team. Burns will attend the University of Providence in Rhode Island next year and has a bright future ahead of him, both on the pitch and in the classroom.

llison (Alli) Voss started for three straight years for the Benilde-St.-Margaret’s girls’ soccer team. She was a dominant forward as well as a two-year team captain. She was a finalist for Ms. Soccer this year and will take her superior talents to the next level at St. Ben’s University this coming fall.

he only collegiate dancer this year, Myka Field brings a great addition to BSM’s 2021 class of collegiate athletes. She has been dancing with BSM on the fall dance team since freshman year and has been a leader on varsity kick and jazz since she joined winter dance junior year. Field will be attending the SMU Meadows School of Arts as a dance major.

CARLY GREENE - HOCKEY

JONAH GORDON - FOOTBALL

OLIVIA HAAG - HOCKEY

arly Greene, a Red Knight goaltender, has been instrumental in the hockey team’s success, putting up one of the best save percentages in the state. Her keen awareness and quick reflexes dominate shots from all over the ice. Greene will be attending and playing for the Sacred Heart University Pioneers in Connecticut next fall.

Athlete Commits.indd 2

onah Gordon was a beast on the football field this year; a dominating left tackle and a powerful backup nose guard, Gordon helped lead a young BSM football team to a stellar season. With his leadership, effort, and commitment to the game, Concordia College, Moorhead, MN is getting an excellent local stud.

livia Haag has been a dominant forward and a stellar leader for the BSM hockey team. She graciously accepted an amazing offer from Boston University to continue her athletic career with the Terriers. She will go on to give it her all on the ice and in the classroom for the next four years.

4/7/21 3:22 PM

ABIGAIL HANCOCK – HOCKEY

bigail (Abby) Hancock is a hockey, defensive superstar for the Red Knights. Committing to the Brown University, her freshman year not only rewards her talents on the ice but in the classroom as well.

MAYA JONES - HOCKEY

aya Jones has been an anchor on the hockey team for the past four years. Jones has been a key defenseman for the Red Knights, and she will be playing hockey and attending Union College for the Dutchmen in New York next fall.

JACKSON LEISCHOW - LACROSSE

COURTNEY KALLAS - TENNIS

ourtney Kallas has been on varsity tennis since her days in junior high– –a most impressive accomplishment. Her agility and technique attracted the eyes of College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Massachusetts. The Crusaders are getting an elite addition to their squad next year in Kallas.

TAYLOR WILLIAMS - SWIMMING

ackson Leischow has been a lacrosse player since 8th grade. The longest-tenured player on the team, he was blessed with the title of captain this spring. An Under Armour All-American, his talents did not go unnoticed. He accepted an offer to play college lacrosse at the Duke University in the fall of 2022. Next year he will attend Taft Prep School in Watertown, Connecticut.

aylor Williams has been a star for the swim team since she joined the Red Knights as a freshman. Williams set school records in the 100 and 200 freestyle and earned All-American and All-American consideration, respectively. Williams is going to be spending the next four years swimming for the University of Missouri Tigers.

PARKER (PK) SKELTON – FOOTBALL

NICK MARINARO - FOOTBALL

grinder on and off the field for the past three years on varsity, Parker (PK) Skelton grew into an elite cornerback for the BSM football team last fall. Skelton is a hard worker, and colleges realized that this year as he will be taking his talents to the next level and will attend UW Stout next fall.

MASON WORDELMAN - LACROSSE

ason Wordelman transferred to BSM from Blake after sophomore year and has been a stud defenseman for the Red Knights since. His leadership qualities led Coach Horn to elect him captain of the lacrosse team this year. Wordelman will be attending and playing for the Fighting Irish at Notre Dame next year.

Athlete Commits.indd 3

ick Marinaro has blossomed from a five-foottwo-inch, 160-pound fledging to a six-foottwo-inch, 260-pound behemoth for the Red Knights, playing guard, center, and tackle. This past fall he led as a captain and committed to Dartmouth College to continue his academic and athletic career.

MATT DOWDEN - LACROSSE

att Dowden will be scoring goals for the St. Lawrence Saints next fall. The sharpshooter has been putting up points for the Red Knights since freshman year and will be wearing a ‘C’ on his jersey this spring, with aspirations of leading the team to that elusive state title.

4/7/21 3:22 PM

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR H I EVERYONE, I JUST WANTED TO DEDICATE THIS KEQ MAGAZINE TO THE CLASS OF 2021 AND THEIR AMAZING ACCOMPLISHMENTS OVER THESE PAST 4 YEARS. HAPPY READING! EMILY BARRON, KNIGHT ERRANT VISUAL EDITOR

CONTRIBUTING STAFF MEMBERS: EMILY BARRON JACKIE BUCARO MEGAN CORNELL CHARLIE DAMBERG LAUREN HAWKINSON NICK MARINARO CHARLIE JUCKNIESS CONNOR RAHILL JACOB RUNMAN GEORGE WOLFE ADVISERS: KARI KOSHIOL AND TIFFANY JOSEPH EDITORIAL STAFF: EMILY BARRON, JACKIE BUCARO, GRACE COCHRANE, FLINT FROHMAN, AVA KRUEGER, MASON MCGONIGLE, ANDREW LYONS, CONNOR RAHILL, AND CLAUDIA SCHERER. PUBLICATION POLICY THE ROLE AND GOAL OF THE KNIGHT ERRANT STAFF IS TO INFORM AND ENTERTAIN THEIR READERS THROUGH ACCURATE AND FACTUAL REPORTS. THE KEQ MAGAZINES ARE DISTRIBUTED THROUGHOUT THE SCHOOL FOR FREE. THE KNIGHT ERRANT AIMS TO BE ACCURATE, FAIR, AND IMPARTIAL IN ITS COVERAGE OF ALL ISSUES. THE STAFF STRIVES TO REPORT ALL ISSUES IN A LEGAL, OBJECTIVE, ACCURATE, AND ETHICAL MANNER, ACCORDING TO THE NSPA CODE OF ETHICS FOR HIGH SCHOOL JOURNALISTS. KEQ IS WRITTEN AND PRODUCED BY JOURNALISM STUDENTS AT BENILDE- ST. MARGARET’S SCHOOL. THE VIEWS EXPRESSED IN THIS MAGAZINE ARE THE OPINIONS OF THE WRITERS AND NOT NECESSARILY THESE OF THE KNIGHT ERRANT STAFF , ADVISERS, OR BSM ADMINISTRATORS. THE KNIGHT ERRANT WELCOMES LETTERS TO THE EDITORS AND GENERAL COMMENTARIES AND EXPRESSLY RESERVES THE RIGHT TO EDIT THOSE LETTERS DUE TO SPACE LIMITATIONS, COPYRIGHT LAWS, OR JOURNALISTIC ETHICS. LETTERS SHOULD ADHERE TO THE SAME REQUIREMENTS AS FOUND IN THE ONLINE COMMENT POLICY. TO CONTACT THE STAFF, PLEASE EMAIL KNIGHTERRANT@BSMSCHOOL.ORG.

KEQ Seniors 2021 COVER_BACK.indd 3

4/7/21 3:08 PM