Panorama February 2017

panorama LADUE HORTON WATKINS HIGH SCHOOL v 1201 S. WARSON ROAD ST. LOUIS, MO 63124 v VOLUME 65, ISSUE 6 2/15/2017

(Photo by Michael Burke)

How students give back through

VOLUNTEERING Read more on pgs. 8-9

Table of Contents 3 News

6 Features

The Staff Editors-in-Chief Copy Editors News Editor Features Editor In-Depth Editor Sports Editors Photo Editors

(Photo by Michael Burke)

8 In-Depth

(Photo by Michael Burke)

12 Sports

(Photo courtesy of Aly Francone)

11 A&E

Art Editors Business Manager Webmaster Writers

(Photo by Hannah Suffian)

14 Opinions

Photographers (Photo by Madi Ward)

audrey wang w ART EDITOR

Our Policy Panorama is a monthly newspaper that strives to inform and entertain students, staff and community members and to uphold professional standards of accuracy and fairness. The publication hopes to engage the student body by eliciting dialogue among our readers. It aims to reflect the diversity of the population it serves and observes the journalistic principle of doing no harm.

Panorama is produced nine times per school year by the journalism class of Ladue Horton Watkins High School at 1201 S. Warson Rd., St. Louis, Missouri 63124. The publication lab is located in Room 216, (314)-993-6447 ext. 5844.

Artists Adviser

Isabella Fu Aaron Greenberg Julia Biest Sasha Rice Sophia Li Lily Hauptman Katie Bry Glen Morgenstern Sam Shevitz Michael Burke Sophia Garland Audrey Wang Annie Zheng Michael Burke Max Baker Jackson Bry Connie Chen Ope Falako Alex Fu Mackenzie HinesWilson Joel Hsieh Felix Hu Anik Jain Grace Kim Parris King-Levine Malavika Kumaran Albert Liu Adam Rush Hope Shimony Bradford Siwak Hannah Suffian Anya Tullman Cindy Wang Carolina Alisio Jess Matson Rhiannon Rhoads Madi Ward Jack Glon Simon Nguyen Aleesha Shi Sarah Semmel

Read more online at www.laduelead.com Follow @laduepanorama

Panorama welcomes and encourages letters to the editor. Please bring signed letters to Room 216.

Panorama reserves the right to revise submissions as long as original intent remains unaltered.

3 'Little Women' takes the stage this spring panorama

NEWS

Ladue theater department practices for the musical isabella FU

editor-in-chief

2. OOPS! w Junior Katie Bohnert unintentionally finds sophomore Will Carr sleeping at Annie Moffat's Valentine's Day ball. Carr plays Theodore Laurence, the Marches' neighbor. (Photo by Michael Burke)

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1. A FAMILY AFFAIR w Senior Jamie Tao, juniors Katie Bohnert and Annie Heartney and freshman Tori Campos gather around senior Emily Barrett as she reads a letter. The letter is from Mr. March, the girls' father. (Photo by Rhiannon Rhoads)

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dicament includes letting people know what they need to do for the musical.

“It’s always a challenge to communicate with everybody and make sure everybody knows what’s going on [and] when things are due,” Pecka said. “When you get a bunch of creative students together and you present them with a problem, [they] just start to brainstorm and come up with different ideas.”

The cast and the production team work together in order to find solutions for problems.

These resolutions enable them to work more efficiently.

“Especially for technology, we have a [Google Calendar], and that has helped a lot this year because we can put all of the dates [on it],” Kennedy said. “Say like, crew has to meet here on Tuesday. Then, everyone is aware that crew is coming.”

As a result of the musical, students are able to meet new people and work together. They understand that teamwork is critical for strong performances. “[My favorite parts of being in the musical are] probably just working with such a fun cast and being able to make new friends of all different ages,” Kennedy said. “It’s fun putting on a show and seeing the final product.”h

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“Rehearsals go through several different stages,” theater connie CHEN director Michael Pecka said. news writer “Early on, we do what are called he Ladue theater troupe blocking rehearsals, where we began its practice for go through the script one page at "Little Women." The official a time. Then we go to working performances will be Feb. rehearsals, polishing rehearsals 23-25. [and] technical rehearsals. Then we get into full dress rehears“[Little Women] is about four als where we have everything: sisters, and the main sister is costumes, makeup, etc.” named Jo. Jo is a writer, and Jo is The cast and crew work trying to sell her stories to people together during practice. The in New York,” senior and student cast acts out scenes while the director Julia Kennedy said. “It’s production crews take care of the kind of about Jo and her strugrest. For example, crews prepare gling to get these stories out and props and costumes as well as inher realizing things about herself crease publicity about the spring as she goes musical. Each along.” crew has a It's fun putting on a show and student head Because seeing the final product. the musical is who leads the upcoming, the group. senior Julia Kennedy cast practices “You will everyday for have students two and a half hours. Rehearsals in charge of, say, the light crew, consist of planning scenes. and then have five or six students “We [practice] our scenes, on the light crew,” Pecka said. and mostly we’re running lines,” “We also have [band teacher freshman Tori Campos said.

Aaron] Lehde conducting the pit, Moreover, rehearsals prepare [in] which there are probably 20 cast members and enable them to 25 students involved.” to practice with costumes and Because of the number of props. These rehearsals allow the people involved in the musical cast and crew to get a sense of and the things students have to what the real performance will work on, there are also many be like. challenges. One particular pre-

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(Photos by Rhiannon Rhoads)

panorama NEWS 4 Students launch a new literary magazine

‘The Catalyst’ publishes student submissions bradford SIWAK

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news writer

adue High School’s online literary magazine, “The Catalyst,” started this school year. Founded by juniors Grace Wallace, Paige Overton and Emily Lesorogol, “The Catalyst” staff meets every Tuesday after school in English teacher and sponsor Janet Duckham’s room: 280B. All students are encouraged to submit their works of creativity. These may include poetry, opinion pieces, personal experiences, photographs, physical art and more.

Although “The Catalyst” was new this school year, there had been a previous poetry and prose booklet called “Crescendo.” A significant difference between the two, however, is that “The Catalyst” has an online presence, a vital part of most modern publications.

“In my high school and at Ladue previously, when you have only the print version of a literary magazine, sometimes the perception [is] that it’s just for a limited group of students, whereas this at least has that openness

and opportunity that seems more available to students,” Duckham said.

Wallace came up with the original idea of an online place for students to express themselves in a creative forum for all to enjoy. Not only would students be able to share their thoughts with the world, they would also get inspired from others’ creations.

“I thought of the idea of something like this because I was thinking it would be good to have a place where people can just talk about what they’re interested in and get people doing things like reading and writing,” Wallace said.

Usually the process of starting a group or club is a difficult one.

One might face a lot of skepticism from family and friends in relation to the success of the idea. But often the most difficult obstacles to face are one’s own opinions and self-doubt.

“There’s a certain level of ‘Will people be interested?’”

Lesorogol said. “Just knowing realistically what high school students are capable of and will be willing to do, [is] hard.”

In addition to interested students, an after-school group must

have an school staff member to act as a sponsor. Duckham was eager to lend her support.

“I just think it’s wonderful for a high school to have some opportunity for students to express themselves and to share experiences with one and other.

I think that can only enhance the environment of the school,” Duckham said.

Students have the option of anonymously submitting their creative work. Anonymity is particularly useful for a public website, where anything can be seen by strangers.

“Even if it’s not something too deep or personal, it’s tough to put your work on a public website, and we wanted to make sure everyone feels comfortable,” Overton said.

Getting involved with the staff members is as easy as sending an email with one’s creative work or attending one of the staff meetings. “The Catalyst” members are not required to attend every meeting.

“When a lot of people seem divided within the school and within the country, we want to make one more place available where people can come together,” Lesorogol said.h

In Love with the Spring Sun

by Stella Horton

in love with the spring sun knowing that i am not just unforgiving ice but the chance to rain and contribute to life, too i come to terms with the flowers who sprout through my heart listen to them croon when he rises i yearn for him with them arms wide open in love with the spring sun knowing that there is only so much he can heal is heartbreaking eyes so kind and hands worn to hell and back he internalizes what he can’t melt away and resigns behind the horizon dejected he fell for the winter with stars in his eyes only to find himself chasing away polar vortexes that are bound to come any day now i say to him my love they follow me not heat seeking missiles rather disaster seeking winds it’s not your fault cold hands clutching onto his back sway with me while i melt in your arms we are the reason the sun shines when it rains Excerpted from an issue of the January “The Catalyst” Read ‘The Catalyst’ at http://theladuecatalyst.weebly.com or submit your work to catalyst@ladueschools.net

Math curriculum to include new STEM class The class will introduce students to computer coding

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ext school year, math teacher Garrett White will be teaching a new class, Computer Science Principles, for both semesters. The course, which has been in the planning stages for more than two years, is meant to be a transition into AP Computer Science.

Computer Science Principles will be available to sophomores, juniors and seniors and will cover the basics of computer programming. While the class isn’t a prerequisite to taking AP Computer Science, Computer Science Principles was created specifically for the students who weren't comfortable taking an AP course in the subject.

if you have a good idea. That’s what is important about this: [the need] to expose more students to [computer science].”

Junior Ben Avigad has had White as a teacher for more than two years.

He decided to take Computer Science Principles because of his hesitations regarding the AP course. Despite not having much of a uy ng n coding background, Avio sim gad wants to be able to code for his own benefit.

“To some extent, I took the coding class in middle school and have done some online classes, but nothing major,” Avigad said. “I decided to take the class because it seemed a good alternative to AP w

news writer

“[This class is important because] of the way technology is headed,” White said. “It’s going to be around forever, and

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adam RUSH

“I heard that there were some [people] who were intimidated about taking an AP computer science course,” White said. “[This] is why it’s [an] important class.

A ton of people don’t have the confidence to take it. They don’t even try because they haven't coded in the past, and this is a bridge to get more people to take a more rigorous AP Computer Science course.”

White was chosen to teach the class because he feels strongly about the subject and has a computer science background.

Upon hearing about the new class, White quickly signed up to teach the course. The engineering class he currently teaches will be similar to the new coding class in the sense that problem solving and rational thinking will be crucial.

we need to have more training in that area for some of the kids. One website [or application] can change the world

Computer Science. My schedule was already quite busy for next year, and so adding a fifth AP gave me hesitations.”

Computer Science Principles will cover programming in Java and basic script along with creating applications. The class is designed to help students better understand the logic of computer programming and gain a practical coding experience.

“I decided to take this class because I want to become an engineer or something that involves math and computer science,” sophomore Grace Hardester said. “[I took] this class over AP Computer Science [even though] I was on the robotics team and programmed the robot. It’s a lot easier, and I don’t feel like I am experienced enough to take an AP [coding] class.”h

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panorama

NEWS

Capture the moment: cindy WANG news writer

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icture Perfect has joined the ranks of Ladue’s new clubs. It meets on the second and fourth Monday of each month after school in West Balcony 5.

Created this semester by freshman Connie Chen, Picture Perfect aims to teach students how to use a camera. Chen has always been interested in photography. When she realized that there wasn’t a photography club at Ladue, she seized the opportunity to start one.

“I had an interest in photography in the first place,” Chen said. “Since no one had created a photography club, I was like, ‘Why don’t I just start one?’”

With this idea, Chen headed to the activities office and filled out the paperwork. Then there was only one missing component: the students. Recruiting members and spreading the word proved to be a challenge.

Freshman launches Picture Perfect club for all students

“It was [hard to get a club Most people appreciate phostarted in the middle of the tography, although they may not year],” Chen said. “At the begin- be an expert at the art of taking ning of the year, especially with photos. The timeless quality of the activities fair, people are photography seems to intrigue generally more willing to join people of all ages. clubs than they are now.”

“It's fascinating that by taking Despite the difficult task bea well-placed photo I can capture fore her, Chen gathered enough an entire memory in an instant,” students for her first meeting by sophomore Aishwarya Kumar persuading her friends and writsaid. ing morning announcements. By Chen believes that many the first meeting on Jan. 23, Chen students like Kumar may have had gathered a sizeable number an interest in photography, but of students neither the time eager to Like a window into an artist’s nor skills to take expand their soul, a photograph can show high quality love for phophotos. Picture tography. At a part of the world from a Perfect provides this meeting, particular point of view. a place for sponsor Christine Warner students to learn Chen and her fellow phomore about photography lovers compiled a list of tography and improve their skills skills they wanted to learn. without the time commitment of “We have a good group with taking a photography class. lots of excitement about us“Whether the pictures are of ing the darkroom, the digital nature or photos from a family cameras, pinhole cameras [and] vacation, I love being behind the Photoshop,” fine arts teacher and camera,” Kumar said.

Picture Perfect sponsor Christine Photography is also a promiWarner said. nent and accessible feature in

many people’s daily lives.

Whether through selfies or group pictures, people often reach for their cameras to preserve their memories. Thus, learning to take professional photos can be useful. “[Photography] is a fun, creative outlet and something I can do at any time,” freshman Madeline Stoces said.

Although the club only started recently, Picture Perfect members have high hopes for the future. Chen believes that Picture Perfect will expand as she thinks photography serves as a natural stress reliever. She hopes that students will join Picture Perfect to relax.

“I joined Picture Perfect so that I could learn more about photography and practice around the school with friends,” Stoces said.

simon nguyen w ARTIST

Picture Perfect also aims to preserve the memories of high school life. As a result of the stress of college and school, many students may not have the time to appreciate high school.

With Picture Perfect, Warner and Chen encourage students to take an hour of their time every other week and devote it to remembering their high school experience.

“Photography can capture a particular moment of time and give it new meaning just for existing as a photograph,” Warner said. “Like a window into an artist's soul, a photograph can show a part of the world from a particular point of view.” h

What in the world? Looking at big news PARIS, FRANCEParis mayor Anne Hidalgo proposed Feb. 9 to build a protective glass wall around the Eiffel Tower to protect it from terrorist attacks.

WASHINGTON, D.C.Betsy DeVos was confirmed Feb. 8 as the new Education Secretary.

BENGALURU, INDIAAirplane company Boeing announced its plans Feb. 9 to establish a factory.

MOGADISHU, SOMALIAThe country’s Parliament elected Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo as president of Somalia Feb. 9.

SANTA CRUZ, BOLIVIAThe government deemed the local locust problem an emergency Feb. 9. The insects have been destroying crops. audrey wang and simon nguyenw ARTISTS

panorama 6 FEATURES Laughing and learning across the world Ladue student describes her foreign exchange experience hope SHIMONY features writer

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or five months, junior Aly Francone lived 4,548 miles away from home. While studying abroad in Pori Finland, Francone enjoyed late classes and daily lunches in the city. She decided to study overseas because of her interest in culture and linguistics. “[Finland is] just really pretty, and it’s peaceful,” Francone said. “It’s just a nice country. I miss it so much, and I’ve only been back a couple weeks.”

Francone’s desire to study abroad stemmed from her interest in different languages and her love for travel. She has always wanted to branch out and explore different cultures around the world. For Francone, traveling abroad seemed like the perfect opportunity to dive into her passion headfirst.

“I know that she wants to study linguistics,” friend of Francone and junior Mahima Gunapooti said. “She really likes traveling and learning about different cultures, which is why she applied for the program to begin with.”

Francone’s interest in language is not only shown in her decision to study abroad, but also in her course load.

While in Finland, Francone took mostly language courses rather than the typical core classes.

“I took four language classes,” Francone said. “I didn’t take any math and science. I took English, Finnish, Swedish and French.”

High school in Finland is very different than how it is in the U.S. With fewer required courses, Finnish high school students have more flexibility with their schedules, which allows them to take more interest-focused courses.

However, high schools in Finland are set up similarly to American colleges in that students have only a few classes every day.

“There would be days I’d [only] have three classes or two classes,” Francone said. “I would come in at 8:30 or 10:15. It [was] really nice.”

AROUND THE WORLD IN 5 MONTHS w

Top left: A street scene in Pori, Finland. Top right: Pori, Finland at sunset. Bottom: Proudly displaying the Finnish flag, junior Aly Francone smiles with her newly-found friends.

“I was actually supposed to go to France,” Francone said.

“Last year [with] all the attacks, my mom was worried so I switched to [Finland].” (Photos courtesy of Aly Francone)

The rest was history:

Student’s job encourages the discovery of her love of history

interesting to listen to,” Wu said.

“In APUSH, document-based anya TULLMAN questions and analyzing docufeatures writer ments were a big component of the class, and I realized that I hree times a week, senior loved to analyze history from Sophia Wu leaves school primary and secondary sources. and heads straight for I realized that since I loved to work, where she can pursue her learn history in class, I wanted passion while gaining a valuable to explore more outside of the hands-on experience. Wu has classroom, which led me to apply worked at the Missouri History for a job at the Missouri History Museum for a year and a half, Museum.” and she works in the Exhibitions Saxton recognizes many and Research department character traits that Wu with professional historians. [Wu] is an amazing student, and “I help with making exher interest and passion for history possesses that make her an exceptional addition to the hibits, researching, catalogis amazing. museum. He believes that ing, brainstorming project history is an active subject, ideas for the museum, social studies teacher Christopher Saxton and he hopes Wu will continmaintaining the archives, ue to be passionate about it. enhancing visitor experience, Christopher Saxton’s AP U.S. “[Wu] is an amazing student giving tours to the public and and her interest and passion for conducting oral history projects,” History class. Wu says that it is her favorite class in high school, history is amazing,” Saxton said.

Wu said. and the one that inspired her to “[Wu’s] interest in history went Wu fell in love with history take the job at the museum. way beyond APUSH, and her during United States Studies in “Mr. Saxton made history commitment to not only studying social studies teacher Robert fun and a passion for me, and history, but [experiencing] it by Good’s class. She felt captivated his lectures were intriguing and working at the Missouri Historiby the idea that social studies is

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not just the process of memorizing facts and dates but more of the study of how people across different cultures work together to change and shape society.

“Dr. Good also mentioned that history is an argument of the past, and since I love to debate and talk about contentious issues, history was just for me,” Wu said.

Wu has also been greatly influenced by social studies teacher

Finland also differs from the U.S. in terms of populace and way of life. In Finland, most people enjoy a calm and subdued life, whereas Americans are known for their busyness and volume.

“People in Finland are a lot shyer,” Francone said. “[They are] a lot quieter, more reserved. Everyone keeps to themselves.”

Francone’s friends also agreed Francone liked the more laid-back Finnish lifestyle. By immersing herself in the culture, she truly understood the quality of life there.

“I can tell she prefers that more low-key, close, downto-earth, more natural lifestyle,” Gunapooti said. “She definitely prefers the lifestyle there [compared to the lifestyle] over here.”

Studying abroad has allowed Francone to step outside of her comfort zone and learn about herself and the world around her. Francone’s former AP World History teacher Eric Hahn agrees that there is an astounding amount of advantages to studying abroad. He believes that experiencing life overseas helps kids see the world from a different point of view and enhances the learning process.

“Beyond learning another language, learning other customs and eating different foods [are also important],” Hahn said. “The advantages of making new friends and forming new relationships [that] may turn into lifelong bonds [come with studying abroad as well].”

Francone believes her experience has changed her for the better. Traveling alone in a completely foreign area forced Francone to become independent and outgoing, and it showed her the larger picture of the world.

“I gained a different outlook on the world,” Francone said. “I’m more patient, more independent and more confident.” h

cal Society has hopefully made an example to other students who share the same passion for the discipline as she does.”

Wu thinks that the best job at the museum is handling the collections and researching the origins of every object in the museum’s inventory. She has been exposed to St. Louis’s interesting history as a prosperous trading site along the Mississippi River and as a host for the World’s Fair in 1904.

“I love being one of the first people to touch objects from donors and [include] it in our collection that could be used for future exhibits,” Wu said. “Some of my favorite objects ranged from a 150-year-old cookie to a buffalo’s bladder from a Native American reservation that was donated.”

Wu’s friends are extremely supportive and motivated by her hard work and dedication. Senior Bibi Schindler believes that the job at the museum fits Wu

extraordinarily well because it applies to her interests. “[Wu] loves history,” Schindler said. “She went to the Inauguration and the Women’s March [on Washington] because she knew she was witnessing really important historic events.”

Wu has been an integral part in producing many phenomenal exhibits at the museum. However, her favorite display is one that focuses on Route 66, one of the original U.S. highways that passed through St. Louis. “[Route 66] touches many themes and issues that people encountered when traveling on the route such as themes of family, isolation, traveling, gender roles, racial issues and achieving the American dream,” Wu said.

“The exhibit is a prime example of how you can look at history through varying experiences of people who traveled on the highway. Everyone had his or her own experience, and that’s what made the exhibit so special.” h

FEATURES

Taking a leap of faith: malavika KUMARAN features writer

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t isn’t often that a person falls so much in love with a foreign place that she wants to spend the rest of her life there.

Senior Naomi Oberlander plans on moving to Israel directly after high school because she feels a strong connection to the Middle Eastern country. Oberlander will be moving there by herself in the fall of 2017, and she intends to live there permanently after her gap year.

“I am planning on studying in a gap year program, then I will do national service for a year,” Oberlander said. “Every Israeli citizen must either complete national service or army service.”

This gap year program is called Nishmat and is based in Jerusalem. Oberlander will be completely immersed in Israeli culture and language during her gap year.

“A gap year program can vary from program to program,” Oberlander said. “In Israel alone, there are programs that focus on volunteering, to seeing the land through hikes and tours, to spending all day learning Torah in a classroom.”

After her gap year and her year of national service, Oberlander plans to attend college in Israel and continue her education there. Though she is not sure what college she wants to attend, Oberlander said that she got a taste of the U.S. college application process because of her application to Nishmat.

“The process of applying to these programs is a lot like applying to college,” Oberlander said. “It’s very competitive, and the programs are very selective.

My friends in New York would have upwards of 50 girls from their class applying to one program, and these programs typically only accept one or two girls from each high school, if any. I definitely had an advantage being from a smaller town.”

Oberlander said that she would like to attend Bar Ilan University, a college in Israel

audrey wang w ART EDITOR

that many Americans and people she knew attended. Oberlander also found out about Nishmat through close family friends.

“I had family friends who went on this program, and currently one of my best friends is on it,” Oberlander said. “This program is dominantly an Israeli program with a small American program. The Americans live with Israelis and take all of their classes in Hebrew with the Israelis. This will really help me integrate into Israeli society.”

Oberlander has known she wanted to move since she was very young, though she started thinking seriously about it as a sophomore. She hopes to become accustomed to living in Israel through this gap year program.

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Senior decides to continue her life and education in Israel next year

“Ever since my first time in Israel when I was eight, I had an overwhelming feeling of belonging,” Oberlander said.

“I’m really looking forward to making lifelong connections and strengthening my Jewish identity.”

Oberlander’s friends and family, including her mother, science teacher Sima Oberlander, were very supportive of her decision to move to Israel. In fact, Oberlander’s entire family intends to move there eventually.

“We’ve known she’s wanted to do [a gap year program] for a long time,” Sima Oberlander said. “I hope Naomi will be able to gain a better understanding of who she is and where she fits in the world.”

One of Naomi Oberlander’s close friends, senior Lindsay Goeler, has known about Oberlander’s dream to move to Israel for a long time. She is very encouraging of and happy for her.

“It has always been her plan, but with it being senior year, she has talked about it more,” said Goeler. “I was of course sad that one of my closest friends will be so far away, but I’m also incredibly happy and proud of her. She has always seen this as her future and takes such pride in Israel.”

By moving to Israel, Naomi Oberlander will fulfill a dream she has had throughout her life.

Turning a lifelong goal for the future into a reality is an experience many hope to have.

“When my friends started talking about colleges and the future, I couldn’t picture myself any [place] other than Israel,” Naomi Oberlander said. h

Teacher spotlight: Michael Pecka Lily Hauptman: What is the most difficult part of your job?

Michael Pecka: I think just trying to manage classes with doing the productions. I manage the theater also. When we get into the productions, it’s extremely busy– a lot of 13 or 14 hour days.

(Photo by Lily Hauptman)

LH: What is a fun fact about you?

Michael Pecka: I’ve restored cars [and] rebuilt engines. My daughter and I just bought a 1969 VW Microbus.

LH: What is the most rewarding part of your job?

Michael Pecka: Working with the students. When I work with the theater students, I get to know them pretty well. Some of these students I’ve spent many hours working [with], day and night for several years. It’s fun to get to know students that well.

@humansofladue Everyone in this school has a story to tell.

Follow us on Instagram to see more.

“What makes you happy?”

“I’d say spending time with people I like and just being in the moment and enjoying life makes me happy.”

(Photo by Lily Hauptman)

double takes: ‘The Bachelor’ Edition freshman Callista Cox

“The Bachelor” contestant Taylor Nolan

teacher Jesse McGlaughlin

“The Bachelor” host Chris Harrison

junior Olivia Smith

“The Bachelor” contestant Whitney Fransway

(Student photos by Lily Hauptman and courtesy of Shirley Gelman. Celebrity photos courtesy of eonline.com, tvgcdn.net, abc.go.com)

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Almost a home away from home katie BRY

in-depth editor

IN-DEPTH

Community contr

Ladue students share their volunte Amish Mahay Junior hospital voluntee

Katie Bry: Where did you volunteer?

AM: I volunteered for Missouri Baptist Hospital over the summer as a junior volun

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hile most high school students spend their weekends catching up on sleep or homework, junior Riley Majzun utilizes the opportunity to give back to her community.

“I volunteer at Almost Home, a home that is downtown for homeless pregnant teenagers or women who have babies,” Majzun said.

“I volunteer at the front desk and I sign people in, help visitors and open the door and answer the phone.”

The mission of Almost Home is to empower young moms to become selfsufficient and create a better future for themselves and their children, according to the organization’s website.

Additionally, they hope to end poverty by assisting two generations at a time.

Majzun started volunteering after she heard about it from her father, a donor to the home. He suggested that she begin volunteering there, and she decided to tryed it.

“It is important to volunteer,” she said. “I think that everyone should volunteer outside of school because it really adds perspective that you probably never would have [otherwise].”

According to a voluntary Google Forms poll conducted among 276 Ladue students,

panorama

(Photo by Katie Bry)

80 percent of Ladue students volunteer or have volunteered outside of school. Majzun appreciates the opportunity she gets from volunteering at Almost Home as she gets to be in a different environment than she is used to.

“I think it is really important to be in such a raw but supportive environment because it is something that I am just not very familiar with,” Majzun said. “Because I have never had to struggle in that way, it has definitely helped me empathize more with people that are in different situations than I am.

It has also shown me how I am just like these people too, and it really opens my eyes to different struggles that people have.”

Additionally, Majzun likes to help people. This positive aspect adds to her enjoyment of volunteering at the home.

“Even though I only do small stuff, being in that environment is fun for me because I want to be someone who can offer support to anyone no matter their background,” Majzun said. h

I volunteered at Gateway Regional Medical Center as a junior volunteer as well.

KB: How did you get involved with the junior hospital volunteer program?

AM: Well, I heard about it from doctors and other students and decided to do it be help people and I want to be a cardiologist.

KB: Why is it important to volunteer?

AM: There is always a way to help people even if you are just a student.

Gracie Cohen Challenger Baseball

Katie Bry: Where d0 you volunteer?

GC: I volunteer over the summer at Challeng-

er Baseball, and I play baseball with kids of all abilities, including kids with mental or physical disabilities.

KB: How did you get involved with the organization?

GC: In middle school I helped out in adapted PE with coach O’Neal, and I was looking over the summer to do stuff around that area. I found [Challenger Baseball] and thought it was perfect.

KB: What is your favorite part of volunteering at Challenger Baseball?

GC: My favorite part is probably making a relationship with some [of the] kids because then you come back the next week and they totally remember you and give you a hug.

(Photo by Katie Bry)

(Photo courtesy of Courvaun Hill)

Lilly Tung

HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS w

Located at 3200 St. Vincent Avenue St. Louis, MO 63104, Almost Home provides housing for 16 to 20-year-old single, pregnant or parenting young women in need of housing. (Photo courtesy of almosthome.com)

(Photo courtesy of Gracie Cohen)

(Photo by Katie Bry)

ributions

eering experience

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panorama

IN-DEPTH

Evan Mutic

Salem United Methodist Youth

er

nteer. And then

ecause I love to

(Photo by Katie Bry)

Katie Bry: Where did you volunteer?

EM: I have volunteered with my church youth group.

In the past we have gone on mission trips to Kansas City, Omaha, Nashville, Joplin, Missoruri and Indianapolis.

KB: What is your favorite part about volunteering?

EM: My favorite part about volunteering is seeing smiles on people’s faces; it is really fulfilling too.

(Photo by Katie Bry) KB: What do you do when you volunteer?

EM: One thing that people don’t realize that we do is we talk to people and see what is going on with their lives and tell them what we are doing and how they can get through what they are going through.

Courvaun Hill Black History Camp Katie Bry: Where did you volunteer?

CH: When I was younger I went to a camp that was all about Black

History. When I aged out of the camp I still wanted to be really active in it, so I went back and I started volunteering there and working with the kids.

KB: What did you do there?

CH: When I volunteered there, we made healthy snacks for the kids and then I would help out in teaching various lessons. I would also help lead group activities, or I would be in charge of a group of fiveyear-olds.

KB: Why is this cause important to you personally?

CH: I am African-American, and I think it is important for everyone to know their own history. That being said, I think for me, it was because I wanted these kids to understand where we come from, the things that we have been through as a community and where we still have to go.

Munira Durakovic St. Louis County Pet Adoption Center

Katie Bry: Where do you volunteer?

MD: I volunteer for the St. Louis County Pet Adoption

Center. I just walk the dogs and play with the cats, and I also fill their water bowls and usually inform prospective owners on what kinds of dogs and cats we have.

KB: What is your favorite part about volunteering?

MD: I think my favorite part is seeing a dog that has been there for a long time get a new home. It is pretty cool to know that they are going to be in a safe home and not in the shelter.

KB: How did you get involved in with this shelter?

MD: I saw my brother volunteering when I was in 8th grade, and because I didn’t have a dog myself and I wasn’t allowed to have one, that made me want to volunteer with animals.

St. Louis County Library Katie Bry: Where did you volunteer?

LT: I volunteered at the St. Louis County Library for the Summer

Reading Club.

KB: What did you do there?

LT: It was actually really fun. I got to help kids sign up for the club and give them prizes, tell them what to do and basically give them the information that they needed to know.

KB: Why do you think it is important to volunteer?

LT: It is just a way to give back to your community. I feel like it is important to be appreciative of what you have and do great things for other people who may need it.

(Photos by Michael Burke)

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panorama

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11 One girl’s quest for the best of the burgers panorama

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT

A review of popular hamburger restaurants in the St. Louis area hannah SUFFIAN

(All photos by Hannah Suffian)

a&e writer

5 Star Burgers

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o start, I went to 5 Star Burgers. 5 Star has locations in Clayton and Kirkwood, and it has a menu with many options. At the Clayton location, the restaurant was cozy and crowded. I ordered a simple “5 Star burger” with lettuce, tomato, onion, cheese and pickles. With an order of fries on the side, the total came to $14.39. The burger seemed expensive, so I anticipated an absolutely delicious burger. While it was certainly not bad in any way, I found the taste to be only fair; there was nothing special about the flavor. This burger did not meet my high expectations.

I liked this burger the least of the three I tried. The restaurant had a fun ambience, but service was a little slow.

With a high price and fair taste and service, I gave 5 Star Burgers three stars out of a possible five. h

Picture this: parris KING-LEVINE

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a&e writer

very year, performers and producers from all around the globe wait in anticipation for the famous Academy Awards–also known as the Oscars–ceremony. It airs Feb. 26 on ABC at 7:30 p.m. CT and will be hosted by Jimmy Kimmel. The Best Picture award is regarded as one of the highlights of the evening.

Here are the nominees.

1. “Arrival” is a dramatic science fiction movie starring Amy Adams, who is also up for the Best Actress award, and Jeremy Renner. It premiered in theaters Nov. 11. In the movie, an alien UFO lands on Earth, and linguistics professor Louise Banks, played by Adams, is asked to learn the aliens’ language in order to communicate with them.

Hi-Pointe Drive-In

Five Guys

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ext, I visited Five Guys. Five Guys has locations throughout our region, including sites at the Galleria and in Des Peres and Creve Coeur.

Although the menu at Five Guys is basic, every item is tasty. I tried a cheeseburger with lettuce, onion, tomatoes and pickles. I also ordered a side of fries. The total came to $10.68.

The burger was delicious. It had great flavor, and it tasted fresh. The service was extremely quick, and the employees were kind. While the restaurant lacked the energy and charm of the other two options, the food made up for it. I was pleased with the quality of the burger and the price created a terrific value. I would recommend Five Guys to anyone who wants a great burger for a low cost and fast service. I gave Five Guys four stars. h

M

y best and last trip was to the newest of the burger hotspots in St. Louis. Hi-Pointe DriveIn recently opened on the corner of Highway 40 and McCausland Avenue. Hi-Pointe offers a basic menu with a few fun additions, such as a Strange Donuts milkshake and a taco burger. Once again, I ordered a cheeseburger with lettuce, onion, tomatoes and pickles.

Including the side of fries, the total was $9.24.

This was my first trip to Hi-Pointe, and it will definitely not be my last. The burger was delicious; the value was great. The meat was cooked perfectly and reminded me somewhat of the famed In-N-Out Burger. The service was fantastic, and the workers were energetic and amiable. In the end, Hi-Pointe was the clear winner for me; I gave it five stars. h

Read below for plots and synopses of the Best Picture nominees of the 89th Academy Awards

She teams up with Renner’s character Ian Donnelly, a theoretical physicist, and together they race to understand the aliens before violence and war break out across the globe.

2. Based on the Pulitzer Prize winning play, “Fences” is a drama that premiered Dec. 25 and stars Viola Davis, Denzel Washington and Stephen Henderson.

The movie takes place in 1950s Pittsburgh where Troy Maxson, played by Washington, makes a living as a sanitation worker.

Troy, bitter from not being able to play on a professional baseball league, lets his frustration harm his relationship with his son.

3. “Hacksaw Ridge” tells the true story of Desmond T. Doss, a pacifist who fought during World War II. Doss saved 75 people at the Battle of Okinawa and never used a weapon. He risked his own life and was the first receiver of the Medal of Honor.

The movie stars Andrew Gar-

field, Sam Worthington and Luke Bracey and was released Nov. 2.

4. Starring Dale Dickey, Ben Foster and Chris Pine, “Hell or High Water” is a Western drama film that centers around brothers Toby and Tanner whose family ranch faces foreclosure. In order

annie zheng w ART EDITOR

to save the property, the two men rob branches of the bank that threatens their ranch. While on their raid, soon-to-be-retired ranger Marcus Hamilton, played

by Jeff Bridges, hears of the rob-

beries and begins to track them down. “Hell or High Water” came to theaters Aug. 12.

5. Based on a nonfiction novel about Katherine G. Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan and Mary Jackson, “Hidden Figures” premiered Dec. 25 and stars Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer and Janelle Monáe. The film tells the story of three African-American women working at NASA in the 1960s. The women battle racism and sexism in the workplace.

6. Tied for the record of 14 Oscar nominations, “La La Land” is a musical romantic comedy starring Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling that came out Dec. 9. The movie follows the story of a jazz pianist named Sebastian and a struggling actress named Mia. They bond over encounters of dreams and rejection.

As they gain success, however, their relationship falters.

7. Released Nov. 25, “Lion,” which stars Dev Patel, Nicole

Kidman and Rooney Mara, is the story of Saroo Brierly. After he was separated from his family in India and adopted by a family when he was 5 years old, Brierly looks for his biological brother and mother as an adult using only Google Earth and his memories.

8. “Manchester by the Sea” stars Casey Affleck and Michelle Williams and came to theaters Nov. 18. In the movie, Affleck’s character Lee Chandler, a lonely handyman, is named guardian of his teen nephew when his brother suddenly dies. He moves back to his hometown to care for his brother’s son.

9. “Moonlight,” a drama film released Oct. 21, follows Chiron, an African-American man who grows up in a dangerous area of Miami, through stages of his life: his childhood, his adolescence and his young adult years. Actors Alex Hibbert, Ashton Sanders and Trevante Rhodes each play Chiron at a certain age. h

12

Senior Sit Down Each month, Panorama sits down with a senior athlete.

This month’s featured player is rower Charlotte Taylor.

panorama SPORTS Precise on ice: Ladue seeks the cup Hockey team’s season record sets it up for a deep playoff run jackson BRY

T

sports writer

he sun glimmers off the boards and onto the ice, illuminating blue-and-white jerseys and shiny helmets. The light reveals a team overflowing with self-confidence, trust and most of all, goals.

Glen Morgenstern: What got you interested in rowing at first?

Charlotte Taylor: I saw that a lot of people were going to college for it, and my mom said to me, “You’d be good at rowing.”

GM: Do you enjoy traveling for regattas?

CT: I love regattas. They’re my favorite part of rowing.

I get to meet a lot of people from around the country. A lot of my best friends are from other cities.

GM: What are you looking forward to in your final year of high school rowing?

CT: I’m hoping to go to nationals again this year and hopefully get in the top five.

I’ve been training really hard.

GM: Who are your role models?

CT: My friend Sarah who rows at Clemson. She had an injury, but she pushed through it, and now she’s rowing DI. She was on the varsity team when I was on novice, so I always looked up to her.

GM: Who is your favorite musical artist?

CT: I like the Chainsmokers a lot.

(Photos courtesy of Charlotte Taylor)

With a regular season record of 18-1-2, the Ladue varsity hockey team earned its best regular-season record in the school’s history this year. The team improved in almost every area, leading to dominant victories throughout the season.

“Not only are we more talented this year, but everybody just kind of knows how to play with each other,” senior captain Jordan Stern said. “We have a lot of chemistry this year.”

One of the team’s top scorers, junior Zach Levy, believes that the team’s improvements are because of the team’s ability to work together. The entire team can cooperate at all times.

“The team has gotten closer with each other, which means we’re playing better on the ice and we’re closer off the ice,” Levy said. “When we work together I think we can beat almost every team in the league.”

ment they all have,” Tackes said.

“As a team sport, where you work together and put in a lot of hours practicing, it helps show a commitment to something that they love.”

With the level of commitment the team puts in, it is obvious the players are very serious about hockey. Every game, regardless of the level of the opponent, matters to the team.

“No game is a joke,” Levy said.

“Even if you’re playing the worst team in the league, you can still lose.

Anybody can win on any DEKED OUT w Sliding the puck around the given night. defender, junior Zach Levy leads Ladue to a 7-0 exhibition victory over Clayton in the high school You just have Winter Classic Jan. 28. (Photo by Carolina Alisio) to have the mindset that The commitment a team puts you are the best and you won’t in decides the fate of its season, be beat.” regardless of raw talent. That is The team has momentum after why the team practiced exwinning all three of its first playtremely hard from the beginning off games against Lafayette, Fort of the season. Hockey parent Zumwalt South and Eureka. The John Tackes was a witness to the Rams will face off against the team’s work ethic.

John Burroughs Bombers in the “It’s truly amazing, as a parnext round of the team’s quest to ent, to see the level of commitmake Ladue history. •

Senior Signings

The team’s success rides on the performance of every line.

Luckily, some unexpected team members are contributing.

“Everybody’s playing really well, even our underclassmen,” Stern said. “It’s an all around good performance.”

Teamwork isn’t the only thing that led to the team’s success.

(Photo by Madi Ward)

• Zach AbuAwad– Delaware, Rowing • Reilly Ahearn– UMSL, Golf • Ty Buckner– MO State, Baseball • Zach Bush– Garden City Community College, Football • Chino Davis– Truman State, Football • Nathan DeGraw– Southern Virginia, Football • Kinder Jones– Transylvania, Golf • Olivia Jones– Cleveland State, Softball • Taylor Korte– Tufts, Swimming • Neely Lochmoeller– Miami of Ohio, Field Hockey • Tyler Love– McKendree, Football • Melissa Melnick– Northwestern, Swimming • Jordan Neier– Culver-Stockton, Football • Charlotte Taylor– Clemson, Rowing • Shawe Watkins– GWU, Rowing

NCAA Tournament Lookouts Watch out for these teams to make a run in the NCAA tournament

Duke

Kansas

Northwestern

Florida

UCLA

Duke has a fantastic combination of experienced players and top-ranked freshmen. Sophomore Luke Kennard leads the team, scoring 20 points per game and Chaminade alumnus Jayson Tatum has heated up. The Blue Devils have a good shot to cut down the nets.

Once again, Kansas is at the forefront of college basketball. The Jayhawks are led by seasoned senior guard Frank Mason III, a top candidate for the National Player of the Year Award. Kansas will again be a safe choice to have deep in your tournament bracket.

The Wildcats are no joke this year. Though the team has never made an NCAA tournament, they look to be well on their way. With an 18-6 record, they are a top team in the Big Ten. Even though they probably won’t make a deep run, they will be fun to watch.

Florida is one of the hottest teams in the country.

They have won their last five games, including a big win over powerhouse Kentucky. Led by senior guards Kasey Hill and Canyon Barry, Florida has four players averaging in double figures. UF could bust your bracket.

They’re balling. Lonzo Ball, one of the nation’s top freshmen, averages eight assists per game.

The Bruins have one of the most explosive offenses in the country, averaging over 90 points per game. However, their 276th-ranked defense may hold them back.

Prediction: Champion

Prediction: Elite Eight

Prediction: Round of 32

Prediction: Final Four

Prediction: Elite Eight

(Photos courtesy of Wikimedia Commons and (Photos byuclabruins.com) Sam Shevitz)

panorama

SPORTS

Mitchell makes major moves at Mizzou Sophomore Paige Mitchell sets two meet records at Mizzou Invite, sets sights on future swimming career anik JAIN

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sports writer

ot many high school student athletes get to say they hold a record, but for sophomore swimmer Paige Mitchell, it was almost a guarantee. Mitchell broke the 50-yard and 200-yard individual freestyle records at the Mizzou Invite Jan. 7.

With future aspirations such as swimming for a Division I college team, Mitchell has worked hard to improve each of her strokes. In addition to swimming for Ladue, she swims with a club team in the offseason to stay sharp. The intense preparation makes swimming different from other sports. “[Work ethic] is pretty important,” Mitchell said. “I’m really dedicated to swimming, and it’s cool when the hard work pays off because it shows that the more work you put in, the better your chances of succeeding.”

Hard work doesn’t come easy.

Mitchell has had to sacrifice portions of her social life.

“I have had to skip out on things like hanging out with

Date

friends, but being able to see that your sacrifices pay off is cool,” Mitchell said.

With the dedication Mitchell has brought to her swimming, she has been able to surprise not only her friends and fellow peers,

I have met so many new friends through it.”

Forming such relationships is crucial to a team’s success, and it’s been no problem for Mitchell. She has proved her leadership ability time and time again.

BREATHE IN w Surging through the water, sophomore swimmer Paige Mitchell breast strokes her way to a Jan. 24 Ladue victory over Clayton. (Photo by Madi Ward) but also herself. Swimming itself means more to her than winning shiny medals.

“Swimming has had a pretty big impact on my life,” Mitchell said. “It provides organization and taught me the skill of time management. It has also made an impact on my social life because

“Paige is a great teammate,” junior and teammate Riley Deutsch said. “She is an awesome training buddy and is always motivating. She is a great team leader, and everyone looks up to her.”

Mitchell will likely continue to set swimming records at La-

due and lead her team to higher rankings. Her unrelenting drive inspires her friends and teammates and sets a high standard.

Coach Hap Gentry believes that her humbleness is a major factor in her continued success.

“I was proud to hear her say to the team that she attributes much of her success [at the Mizzou Invite] to the overwhelming support she received before, during and after the race,” Gentry said. “It was the sense of belonging and camaraderie that relaxed her before facing such stiff competition.”

While Mitchell maintains humility, she also keeps careful tabs on her own progress. She keeps a detailed plan of where she will go with her swimming career after graduating from Ladue. Her goals will require a lot of hard work, but that’s feasible for Mitchell.

“My near future goal is to make the junior nationals,” Mitchell said. “In the long run, I want to swim in Division I and earn a scholarship for swimming.

My end goal is to make the 2020 Olympic Trials and represent the United States in the 2024 Olympics.” •

13

Noteworthy Number

16

The number of points the varsity boys’ basketball team came back from in their 63-59 victory over Westminster Jan. 24. Ladue trailed 33-17 at halftime but rallied in the next two quarters to win by four.

This year, the Rams are 14-7 as of Feb. 9 and are looking to make an impact at the district tournament starting Feb. 25.

“We were getting embarrassed on our own home court, and we couldn’t let that happen,” junior guard Trent Stiebler said. “At halftime, we dug down deep... We were more patient, played harder, focused more on their two star players and got the win.”

Mark Your Calendar Time

Sport

Opponent

Location

2/15

7:30 p.m.

Varsity Boys’ Basketball

Whitfield High School

Whitfield High School

2/17-18

TBA

Varsity Girls’ Swimming

State Meet; Various

St. Peters Rec Plex

2/19

1:00 p.m.

JCC Boys’ Basketball

Baker vs. Graham

JCC (Chesterfield)

2/21

5:30 p.m.

Varsity Girls’ Basketball

Visitation Academy

Visitation Academy

2/22

5:00 p.m.

JV Boys’ Basketball

DeSmet Jesuit High School

DeSmet High School

2/25

1:00 p.m.

JCC Boys’ Basketball

Baker vs. Lucier

JCC (Creve Coeur)

3/24

5:00 p.m.

Girls’ Soccer

Hinsdale South

Quincy High School

3/25

8:00 a.m.

Girls’ Soccer

Plainfield Central High

Quincy High School

3/25

9:00 a.m.

Boys’ and Girls’ Track

Ft. Zumwalt West

Ft. Zumwalt West

14

Single but in love

panorama

OPINIONS

Staff Editorial

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Students should choose their own career paths

wang w ART E DI

sophia LI

news editor

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he reason why I don’t care about romantic love is also why I don’t do cardio— I’m pretty sure it requires a heart. As Valentine’s Day approaches, I find myself surrounded by people complaining about being single. However, I remain unbothered. Instead of wasting time searching for a significant other, I invest it in myself.

Many teenagers think of self-love as cliché or laughable. It’s often belittled as something social pariahs depend upon because they have nothing else. Thus, self-love tends to take a backseat when it comes to emotional priorities.

But here’s my thought process: if I don’t love myself, how can I expect someone else to love me?

I’ll even go as far as to say self-love is a prerequisite for a successful romantic relationship.

Self-love requires self-reflection and the development of internal principles to abide by, and these two measures can be useful in the conflicts and compromises that accompany romantic relationships.

“Personal principles” sound obnoxious, but they can be as simple as the mental pledge to keep promises or to listen before speaking. Other individual dogmas don’t have to be serious or pertain to a particular skill. For example, I dislike Uggs, and you’ll sooner find me in a casket than in a pair. Cultivating a sense of self prevents the loss of identity in a relationship.

Similarly, another aspect and useful result of selflove is recognizing and accepting personal behaviors and characteristics. Are you assertive or passiveaggressive? Extroverted or introverted? Stubborn or flexible? On the surface, I’m stoic and polite, but behind the façade is a wry, blunt creature. I never use cute nicknames without underlying sarcasm and, as a friend, I’ll challenge you because I want you to grow from it. I express myself through fashion and often dwell in the sleepy-sultry realm of musical artists like Banks or Broods. Such self-actualization helps one find people who bring out the best in oneself.

Another beneficial component to self-love lies in self-awareness and acceptance. Everyone has flaws, and people often spend their teenage years obsessing over them. These insecurities may range from physical attributes like thigh gaps or big muscles to less tangible characteristics like confidence or attractiveness. Honestly, I’m here to say that these traits aren’t necessary to be a valid, complete human. The path to self-love inevitably leads to more opportunities to meet new people.

I hope to have inspired some change in mindset now that I’ve given my two cents on romantic love.

But if my words haven’t hit home yet, then consider this. There are roughly 1,300 students in this high school, and according to the 2010 census, there are more than 21 million teenagers in the U.S. That means only 0.006 percent of all the teenagers in the U.S. attend Ladue. That’s a pretty small sample size here. So, if you were single this Valentine’s Day, don’t feel bitter. Are you going to keep complaining or take action? Your move, babe.h

(This column represents the opinion of the writer)

What do you want to be when you grow up? When we were children, answers like “princess,” “astronaut” and “rockstar” rolled easily off our tongues. As we’ve grown older, however, our responses have become less and less certain as we’ve begun to consider the realistic limitations that bind our possible vocations. How much schooling would I have to complete? How much money would I make? What would my parents think?

Whether or not we want to believe it, our guardians have a significant influence on our career inclinations, according to research by Southern Methodist University psychologist George Holden. Many people are the third or fourth generation of their families to work in the same profession because it’s easier to break into an industry when you have an idea of what you’re getting yourself into. While the familiarity with a certain field may be comforting, we should be wary of confining ourselves to the professions of our predecessors. You may want to follow in your parents’ footsteps; you may want to go in a completely different direction. In the end, you are you and your parents are your parents, so make your own decisions. Careers in which parents excel may not be appropriate for their children. This is why kids should use high school and college as opportunities to explore themselves, identify their strengths and weaknesses and learn what professions may suit them.

Of course, this doesn’t mean that people should completely ignore their families’ suggestions concerning their futures. In fact, family members can be helpful resources when exploring career options. They can use their personal experience to advise you on careers in which

you’re interested, but they can also be realistic with you about the successes and setbacks that may occur along the way or as a result of a particular career path. Even if they can’t, they can introduce you to friends, colleagues or other associates who do have relevant experience, allowing you to better determine which field you might enjoy most and what schools are best.

These recommendations are valid and worthy of consideration, but they should be interpreted as guidelines, not verdicts. If you’re uncomfortable with a career that your parents heavily recommend, communicate with them about it. Explain your reasoning, listen to theirs and work together to plan out your steps for the future. The last thing you want is to be stuck in a job you’re unhappy with, a situation to which 52.3 percent of Americans can relate, according to a 2014 report by the Conference Board, a nonprofit research group.

While it’s important to appreciate your family’s genuine interest and support for your career plans, give yourself time to discover who you are on your own. In the end, parents are simply facilitators in your professional journey, and following independent career choices marks your first real step into adulthood. Therefore, enjoy high school. Take a variety of classes, regardless of whether or not they pertain to your envisioned career, join clubs, talk to different teachers and peers–and who knows? You might find the career that’s perfect for you. h

Corrections from 1/19 Pg. 13– Jacob Orsay is a junior, not a senior.

(Unsigned editorials reflect the majority opinion of the Editorial Board.)

aleesha shi w ARTIST

Is local volunteering the best kind?

YES

Communities at home require attention too alex FU

opinions writer

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or many students, volunteering serves as an advantage over other applicants when applying for choice colleges. However, it also allows them to give back to their communities under the combined effort of an organization. Global volunteering has students traveling abroad on a volunteer vacation to help in third-world countries such as Yemen or Uganda.

Although some believe there is a more noble sentiment when volunteering abroad, this trend detracts from local volunteering where the community directly in front of the students needs support.

Children’s Home Society of Missouri is a nationally accredited organization that specializes in child and family services. It has had several programs where students could participate and spend time with disabled children or seniors in order to make a difference in their lives.

The fact that many local students choose to volunteer in places thousands of miles away hinders organizations such as Children’s Home Society, who are desperate to acquire more volunteers, from helping people in need who live right around the corner.

In addition, global volunteering doesn’t guarantee noticeable change in the community during a student’s time there. According to Global Volunteers, a vast international non-governmental organization, volunteering in third-world countries isn’t the “quick fix some people crave.” It takes a lot of time to support local leaders, families, students and teachers to leave any impact. The

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dedication required of students volunteering abroad could be better used to make a direct and immediate change to their own community by cleaning up public areas, caring for disabled children or tutoring and coaching youth in order to give them opportunities for their future.

Critics may argue that global volunteering serves a much larger cause that could potentially cultivate a stronger sense of independence and global awareness.

The reality is that most students have been living with the support of their own community. Tax money, public projects and public fundraisers all contribute to the opportunities made available to students, such as better technology in schools and even the current Ladue High School renovation. It’s only natural that students should focus more on returning the favor by participating in those very same projects and outreach programs so as to enable future generations to have the same quality of life.

In addition, because of their proximity to local charity work, students have a better chance of truly becoming invested in the cause they serve and thus gaining satisfaction from succeeding in their work.

Though it’s ultimately up to the student to decide whether to volunteer abroad or locally, the idea of going on an international adventure and helping foreign communities decreases the support that is needed within the students’ immediate surroundings. Students may also underestimate the work required in these volunteer vacations to change the lives of people in still-developing countries. Instead, students should endeavor to help their local communities as tutors, speakers, coaches and volunteer workers in order to reinforce the foundation of support for us and future generations. h

Volunteer service benefits people everywhere ryan MILLER opinions writer

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OPINIONS

extbooks, tests and lectures aren’t the only parts of education. There are important lessons that can’t be found in books or classrooms. In order for a student to truly be well-rounded, he must have an understanding of the world around him, and how can a student expect to develop an understanding of the world if all he ever does is stay at home? Mark Twain said it best: “Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry and narrowmindedness, and many of our people need it sorely on these accounts. Broad, wholesome, charitable views of men and things cannot be acquired by vegetating in one little corner of the earth all one’s lifetime.”

From food distribution and vaccination programs to large construction projects, volunteering can take many forms. In addition to these programs’ clear benefits to others, volunteering abroad is invaluable in developing a student’s worldview. The realization that the vast majority of the world doesn’t have access to electricity, clean water or plentiful food can be transformative. Even the poorest of Americans can be considered wealthy in comparison to people in other parts of the world. According to economist Branko Milanovic, the typical person in the bottom five percent of America’s income distribution is still richer than 68 percent of the world, and even the poorest group in America has an income equal to that of the richest group in India.

Furthermore, when our students travel to foreign countries and build irrigation systems, educate children

and take care of the sick, they do more than simply help the communities in which they volunteer. Rather, these students play a significant role in spreading American values and democratic ideals across the globe. In essence, they are citizen ambassadors, contributing to our reputation as a humane and active global power. These volunteering opportunities also provide students with a sense of fulfillment. They can return home knowing that they made a difference and that they changed someone’s life for the better.

Despite the importance of global volunteering, critics at home have arisen. Many argue that by traveling to foreign countries and giving aid to non-Americans, students are not spending enough time addressing poverty in their own backyards. Although poverty within our own country is an active issue students should care about, this does not have to come at the expense of experiences abroad.

In fact, students who volunteer abroad often return with a renewed motivation to participate in the local community.

By interacting firsthand with people who have endured poverty and hardship for many generations, students develop an understanding and newfound sympathy for less fortunate Americans.

Everyone has a duty to contribute to his community, and volunteering at the local level is something that we all should support and participate in throughout our lives.

However, people in need in other countries are people too, and they also deserve our compassion. If we discourage our youth from traveling abroad, we deprive them of the satisfaction of doing something impactful for humanity; people in need will be forgotten and the world will drift further apart in generations to come. h

Polls of the People Who do you think should win best actor or actress in a leading role?

Read more about the Oscars on pg. 11.

- Ryan Gosling 57% - Andrew Garfield 10% - Casey Affleck 8% - Denzel Washington 21% - Viggo Mortenson 4%

Natalie Portman 25%Isabelle Huppert 4% Ruth Negga 4% Meryl Streep 12% Emma Stone 55% -

Do you feel pressured by your parents to choose a certain career?

Read more about parental pressures on pg. 14.

50

50% 40

33%

30

15%

20

17% 10

0

No

Yes

Ocassionally

How often do you volunteer your time to the community?

Read more about volunteering on pgs. 8 and 9.

35%

of students said ‘I have once or twice’

38% 20%

of students said ‘monthly’

of students said ‘weekly’

7%

of students said ‘never’

(First and second surveys based on 209 people sampled. Third survey based on 276 people sampled.)

16

panorama

Destination: D.C. AP US History students have unforgettable experiences in Washington

PHOTO michael BURKE photo editor

Check out LadueLead.com for more stories online.

BACKPACKIN' w

very four years since the birth of our nation, the President-elect is sworn in with a traditional ceremony known as the inauguration. Social studies teachers Mike Hill and Chris Saxton and Principal Brad Griffith accompanied nearly 40 students to our nation's capital from Jan. 18-22 to witness history. “The intention was to have the Inauguration as the centerpiece, but we wanted to pack in as much other stuff as we could,” Hill said. Students also had the opportunity to attend another historic event: the Women’s March on Washington. “I think their energy levels spiked at that moment,” Hill said.h

E

Seniors Sam Shevitz, Ellie Richmond and Elena Pulos look out over the Tidal Basin after an exciting first day of exploring D.C. near the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial.

IN MEMORIAM w (Photo by Michael Burke)

A man uses a crayon to retrieve the name of a fallen soldier engraved into the Vietnam War Memorial.

(Photo by Michael Burke)

(Photo courtesy of Brad Griffith)

HISTORY GROUPIES w

(Above) Ladue students pose for a group photo at the start of their trip in front of the Jefferson Memorial.

LOUD AND PROUD w

(Right) “Not just women were marching; there were men there too that empathized with us and came to support us as equals. It was a powerful moment that I will aways remember,” senior Julia Kennedy said of the Women’s March.

GIVE ME A SIGN w (Right) Signs raised, thousands of citizens marched on Washington Jan. 21.

(Photo by Jess Matson) (Photo by Michael Burke)

(Photo by Jess Matson)

“YES, WE CAN” TO “NO, HE CAN’T” w

(Above right) Three women join hands, chanting as they march. “All the subways were totally full. When we got off the subway, everyone was singing. For us, it was like the march started then and there,” junior Sana Mahmood said. Junior Pardes Lyons-Warren added, “We were chanting in the platform. Everyone was there together; so many causes were represented.”

MUSIC AT THE MALL w (Right) After a visit

(Photo by Michael Burke)

to the World War II Memorial, Ladue tourists watched Three Doors Down perform at the inaugural concert Jan. 19 before heading to downtown D.C. for dinner.

CAPITOL SNAP w (Far right) Julia Kennedy takes (Photo by Jess Matson)

YA NASTY! w (Above) Senior

Jamie Tao marches as she proudly displays her sign. “I wanted to make a sign that had a funny message but was also visually appealing so that it’d catch more attention,” Tao said.

a Snapchat of the Capitol Building during Trump’s Inauguration. “I mostly shared pictures on Snapchat because it is so quick,” senior Nisha Naseer said. “It was fun to use the filters that were unique to D.C.”

KODAK MOMENT w (Bottom right) A woman

documents her inaugural experience Jan. 20 amidst a crowd of onlookers. “I liked the inauguration because it was cool to experience anyone being inaugurated, no matter who was elected,” junior Alex Kemppainen said.

(Photo by Michael Burke)

(Photo by Jess Matson)