THE MESSENGER | 1
EDITORS-IN-CHIEF Mira Sydow Jennifer Xia
MANAGING EDITOR Alex Perry
COPY EDITOR Melissa Liu
NEWS EDITOR Grace Peng
SPORTS EDITOR
Nikki Skyer
FEATURES EDITOR Meghana Ramineni
OPINIONS EDITOR Noelle Reid
PHOTO EDITOR Upasna Kotakonda
BUSINESS MANAGER Jennah Sooknanan
ADVISER
Meredith Evans
STAFF Kristina Carlson Selena DiBiase Dylan Duque Rachel Everett Ripley Simone Kennebrew Siddharth Kolichala Suhani Mahajan Reetu Maran Daniel Martinez Grace Nguyen Sean O’Neal
Tanner Owens Bedansh Pandey Manasa Premanand Adiva Puttnam Zainab Qadri Isha Rastogi Megan Serfontein Rayyah Shakur Delaney Shear Erin Shin Caleb Smith Anshi Vajpayee
CONTACT US (770) 497-3828 nhsmessenger@gmail.com 10625 Parsons Rd Johns Creek, GA 30097 nhsmessenger.org
PUBLICATION The Messenger is a student publication published for and distributed to the Northview community. The statements and opinions expressed in this publication are those of the individual writers and do not necessarily reflect those of the entire staff or those of Northview High School, its students, faculty, staff, or administration. Content is edited and controlled by staff editors. The staff will publish only legally protected speech, adhering to the legal definitions of libel, obscenity, and the invasion of privacy.
ADVERTISING The Messenger publishes ads with signed contracts provided that they are deemed appropriate by the staff for the intended audience.
LETTERS TO THE EDITORS The Messenger staff welcomes letters to the editors but reserves the right to edit all submissions for length, grammar, libel, obscenity, and invasion of privacy.
Cover design: Mira Sydow Graphics: Vecteezy
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CONTENTS 03 05 08 15 26
EDITOR’S LETTER MIRA SYDOW
RITES OF PASSAGE
NOELLE REID
SENIOR SUPERLATIVES
MEGHANA RAMINENI UPASNA KOTAKONDA MIRA SYDOW
SENIOR TIME CAPSULES
BEDANSH PANDEY MANASA PREMANAND MEGAN SERFONTEIN ANSHI VAJPAYEE
MESSAGES TO THE SENIOR CLASS ALEX PERRY MIRA SYDOW
04 06 12 20 30
LONG DISTANCE FRIENDSHIPS RIPLEY SIMONE KENNEBREW
SPRING SPORTS REFLECTION NIKKI SKYER
SENIOR ADVICE ALEX PERRY
2020 COLLEGE LIST MELISSA LIU GRACE PENG JENNIFER XIA
GALLERY
UPASNA KOTAKONDA
This month’s magazine is interactive. Use the QR codes throughout to access digital content on The Messenger Online. This issue of The Messenger is dedicated to Principal Brian Downey. Mr. Downey, thank you for all of the work you do for this publication and this school.
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
Unanswered Questions
T
his is my last leditor. My final foray into editorial expression. That’s a good bit of alliteration; maybe funky literary devices will mask the pain of not being able to write this in a cushy chair in the journalism lab as Jennifer stands over my shoulder lightly scolding me because I should’ve finished it a week ago. In my non-cushy chair in my non-journalism-lab room, but still writing this a week after I should’ve finished it, I miss Court Case Monday. I contemplate age-old questions: would Downey support Bong Hits 4 Jesus? How many innuendos can possibly fit into a student-council debate speech? Can anyone read said innuendo-ridden student council debate speech better than Bedansh? More unanswered questions come to mind as I reflect upon four years of journalism: Does Mr. Y’s wife bake for a new staff of eager student-reporters? Does each graduated staffer still remember countless painful deadline nights? Do Northview’s rats recall the boisterous, food-toting kids who used to play badminton with rolled-up magazines and race each other in rolly-chairs? Where is Joe Ni now? I look back on my final year: What will happen to our hot sauces? (I would kill for some Sriracha right now. Or Frank’s Red Hot.) Is there a future for New York Fashion Week? Will our shrine—four cutouts of Downey’s face representing the four pillars and four horsemen—still be tacked to the edges of our crowded bulletin board in the Fall? Will Jennifer survive without me?
(probably not) I consider Northview’s impact upon me as a student: Will I face repercussions for the amount of non-teacher food I stored in Vegas this year? How is lunch detention the closest I’ve come to an earthly purgatory? Do the four pillars out-cult the seven habits? Can it really always be a great day to be a Titan? I reflect on my time in Johns Creek. It’s been ten years now. How will I continue to exist without being constantly submerged in an Asian cultural bubble? Is it pronounced one-four-one or one-forty-one? Why is it easier to emotionally connect with Waffle House employees than my therapist? I reminisce about my childhood in Georgia. Will white people jokes ever get old? Will I still be allowed to make them up north? Can I construct my own identity without an oppressive system to rail against? Will I find another home? Looking back on this piece, I suppose it’s only fitting that in my last work ever printed in my favorite little magazine, I commit a classic journalistic sin: an excessive amount of rhetorical questions. But, witty remarks aside, I’m really going to miss my Messenger family, and I don’t know how I’m going to muster the strength to leave them. For now, I’ll just keep contemplating my extensive list of unanswered questions, because I guess searching for answers is a good (if not a little flimsy) excuse to stick around.
Mira Sydow, Editor-in-Chief
THE MESSENGER | 3
NEWS
A gap year student’s guide to long-distance friendships Friends plan their futures on different continents RIPLEY SIMONE KENNEBREW, STAFF WRITER
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hile most high school seniors dream about their next year at college, Abby Strickland and Carly Shindler are thinking about the next big step in their lives: a gap year. The two are using their time to travel the world and volunteer in schools to help children in need. Shindler was first introduced to the idea of a gap year through her best friend’s mother. Once her idea was solidified, she made plans to room with another student from Atlanta. Together the girls will travel around the world starting in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv with possible travel to Ethiopia, China, and Thailand. “I am doing a gap year because I know that I will never have another year to just travel, and I think it’s a good opportunity,” Shindler said. Shindler, who has experience maintaining long-distance relationships with people in different time zones, acknowledges that while it will be tough; she will stay in contact with her friends because she greatly values their relationships. “I do think long-distance friendships work. I love my friends and I know we can make it work. Finding my friends junior year of high school was the best thing that ever happened to me,” Shindler said. “They mean the world to me and I am excited to see what we all do in the future.” Strickland, who has also had to maintain long-distance friendships because she moved around often during her childhood, shares a similar perspective. “Friendships are very possible because all you need is a willing heart and the determination to pursue your friend in ways you’ve never pursued them before,” Strickland said. “Long-distance friendship is all about the mindset. A mindset that says, “This is my friend and I love them. Because I have a love for them, I’m going to make it a priority to reach out to them
and not let them slip into a figure of the past.” Strickland realizes that friends tend to drift apart after not seeing each other for long periods of time; she embraces the way it will change her life. “It’ll be hard, challenging, and an adventure, but it will be so worth it. There will be some friendships that drift away until all I know about them will be what they post on social media, but that’s okay,” Strickland said. “Because the ones who stick around and stay in touch for the first two years after high school will be the ones who will be in my life for the rest of it. I’m so excited to see who those people are going to be and excited to share the rest of my life with them.” During her gap year, Strickland plans on writing to her friends through the postal system when communicating via phone calls or text messages becomes challenging, returning to the days before cell phones and iMessage. “Everyone has their own way to communicate and a way that they prefer over others. I’m just going to have to wait and see what each individual likes the best. I have a feeling that the majority of them will be through 30-minute to an hour calls with them whenever we can sneak in the time in both of our schedules. For me that’s going to be when I have access to cell service,” Strickland said. “But I’ll definitely be sending everyone some snail mail, and they’ll be hearing from me in the old fashioned way of pen and paper.” After the two seniors return from their gap year, with their lives transformed for the better, they are going to attend college. While Shindler plans on attending the University of Wisconsin, Strickland is unsure of where life will take her yet. What she does knows is that she wants to pursue a job in the medical missionary field and help teach children on the weekend.
NORTHVIEW’S
Rites of Passage Reflecting on staples of the Northview experience
NOELLE REID, OPINIONS EDITOR
The H Mart Stroll
M
aking the half-mile walk from the Northview parking lot to the beloved Super H-mart in the nearby plaza is an experience that most Northview students share, whether it be before a home football game, after a club meeting or rehearsal, or simply because you have some extra time and an empty stomach. Often, you develop a habit of ordering the same thing every time you visit the small restaurants in the food court. You may be particularly fond of one of the snacks from the section in the back that resides between the mini fish-market and the refrigerated goods. You have definitely sustained either a grass burn, rolled ankle, or an ant bite making your way down the steep hill in front of
Taste of Cultures
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nternational Night, the show that Kaleidoscope Club puts on every January to celebrate the variety of cultures present at Northview, is undoubtedly the biggest night for Northview students. The performance comes at the end of a chaotic week of waiting in long, crowded lines in the hopes of getting a coveted ticket for the B-show, that is if they do not get sold out mere seconds after the ticket booth opens. The entirety of International Night is chock-full of anticipation, from the few minutes before the 3:30 bell rings to the long-awaited performance in the auditorium. While looking around the school on a daily basis can give you a decent understanding of Northview’s diversity, International Night showcases it with the talent of its students for an altogether spectacular experience.
Northview so you can get to H-mart. It was worth the pain, however, so you kept repeating this mistake time and time again. What is so special about walking from school to H-mart may remain a mystery, but what you do know is that you are going to miss spilling secrets with your friends while you all pick at a plate of chicken lo-mein.
In the Courtyard
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f it is around 8 a.m. on Friday, and Northview is hosting a home football game, the Titan Drumline is most likely playing a round of cadences in the courtyard. The procession starts just before 8 a.m. with the ominous, yet rhythmic pulse of one bass drum coming from the band room and progresses with the rest of the basses, snares, and tenors joining in. Depending on where you are in the school, it can sound like the drumline is playing in the walls as it snakes its way through the halls. Excited students follow the drummers until they finally land in the courtyard, surrounded by cell phone cameras and dancing students.
A Dip in the Pool
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here is nothing better on a hot Georgia day than putting on a swimsuit and slathering on some sunscreen before going for a swim. Luckily, since around 2005, Northview’s roof has been equipped with its very own pool that students can use for recreational or athletic purposes. Many Northview students find it important for rising freshmen and other new students to be aware of such a luxury, so we take it upon ourselves to inform them.
THE MESSENGER | 5
SPORTS
Remembering Spring Sports Northview’s spring sports teams reflect on their short seasons NIKKI SKYER, SPORTS EDITOR
Track
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he track team, especially its seniors, were looking forward to a successful season when it abruptly came to an
end. “I was definitely looking forward to my last season with lots of different people and breaking my own personal goals,” senior Tyler Cato said. Although they, who have made bonding and mentorship a priority for the team, are sad to leave Northview’s track program, the seniors are thankful for what they gained from the experience and are eager to see what the future holds. They hope the younger runners will continue their legacy by working hard in the years to come.
Senior Alexander Byman runs at track practice. UPASNA KOTAKONDA, PHOTO EDITOR
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Tennis
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he tennis team, whose players were hoping to see their hard work pay off this season, was disappointed when the season was cut short. While the seniors wish the season did not have to end this way, they have chosen to look on the bright side, reflecting on the moments they have enjoyed most during their time on the team. “When we found out that spring sports were being cancelled, we were all devastated,” senior Daniela Rincón said. “I’ve gotten super close to all these kids through tennis, and it’s just an amazing group of friends, and to have that suddenly ripped away from me was tough.” The younger tennis players, who are thankful for everything the seniors have taught them over the years, will go into their next season with the same dedicated mindset that the seniors always had.
Senior Daniela Rincón serves a ball. JENNIFER XIA, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
JUSTINE ULRICH, SPECIAL
Varsity Baseball plays at a home game.
Soccer
N
orthview soccer’s seniors are leaving the program with a bittersweet feeling, as they missed out on six region games. While they were unable to experience those nights, the players are ending the season with a positive mindset. “Although the season was cut short, I am still so proud of all of my girls and how much we have improved,” senior Elizabeth Nichols said. “I love my team so much and I hope when this is all over I will have a chance to walk down the field one last time.” The seniors on the boys’ team share a similar perspective as Nichols. Instead of giving into their disappointment, they chose to reflect on the countless memories they made throughout their soccer careers. “I’m glad I had the honor of being part of this program for four years,” senior Carter Clough said. “There were a lot of memories to be had that we worked hard for but won’t get to experience, but I appreciate everything that Northview has done for me and for the senior class.”
Baseball Lacrosse
D
ue to all its hard work, the Northview baseball team felt very optimistic about their prospects this season. The seniors were hoping to make the playoffs this year and help their younger teammates improve, but unfortunately, the season ended early. “I believe we had a playoff-contending team. I was really looking forward to seeing the younger kids get better throughout the season, so we could count on them in big moments,” senior Michael Izzi said. Although their season was cut short by about 16 games, the players are thankful for the time they spent together and the relationships they made. The seniors are excited to see what the team will accomplish in the future, leaving the baseball team with messages of strength and perseverance that will no doubt influence the team for years to come.
Senior Elizabeth Nichols passes the ball in a soccer game. CORY HOLZ, SPECIAL
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orthview’s lacrosse players deeply regrets having to say goodbye to its seniors this way. They looked forward to the nights and bonding opportunities once promised by the now-canceled games, but are grateful for the time they were able to spend together. “Game days are usually a very energetic and happy atmosphere for the team. I definitely wish I had more time with my teammates. We have gotten so close in such a short amount of time and we were all so excited for this season,” senior Morgan Johnson said. Johnson, along with the rest of the lacrosse seniors, is trying her best to focus on the lessons she learned duuring her time on the team. The seniors are sad to leave their teammates early, but have high hopes for the future of the team.
Senior Dana Hoffman catches a ball. ANIKA DAHIYA, MNEMOSYNE STAFF
THE MESSENGER | 7
r o i sen superlatives superlatives
FEATURES
most most athletic athletic CHLOE BROWN
SAMUEL BABADELE
I enjoy playing tennis, hiking, water skiing, and singing. I am inspired by my parents, coaches, and strong women. I would like to thank my friends for supporting and believing in me.
I enjoy football, working out, and hanging with friends. I would like to thank my mom, who has been an inspiration to me, for everything she does and my family for being there when I need them the most.
most most artistic artistic PAMELA ALATRISTA
TYLER CATO
I enjoy hanging out with my friends and family, art, karate and going to the gym. I am inspired by my wonderful family and friends and would like to thank anyone who voted because I know there are very talented people in this grade that deserve this just as much or more than I do.
My hobbies include art and music. My inspirations are Kanye West, Dominic Fike, Takashi Murakami, and Andy Warhol. I would like to thank my flaming Vans, my trusty ae-1, my camcorder, trees, tattoos, and “The Life of Pablo.” Art is art. Love is love. Be nice to each other.
best best aesthetic aesthetic TORRI BYRD I enjoy art, fashion, and philosophy. I am inspired by the world, mostly the nature and energy I experience on a day-to-day basis. I would like to thank my family for being weird because it made me weird, and no one is really proud of that like the Byrds. Shoutout to my dog Able.
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RYAN MINTER I really enjoy French-inspired fashion, as well as Andy Warhol. He’s a cool guy. I would like to thank my mom for being supportive of essentially everything I do and letting me be free to express myself. I would also like to thank my friends who surround me with creativity and inspiration every day. Everyone stop being boring. Please do something while you still can.
pillars student student of of the the month month 44 pillars DANA HOFFMAN
I enjoy hanging with friends and watching movies. I am inspired by my mom, teachers, and friends. I would like to thank my 2020 classmates for being amazing people to go through high school with and keeping a smile on my face even though it was cut short.
ANISH YENNAM My inspiration is Shakira and her hit single “Hips Don’t Lie.” Chinese philosopher Laozi once said, “When the student is ready, the teacher will appear. When the student is truly ready, the teacher will disappear.” I would like to take this opportunity to thank Aanjan Raj Sikal for introducing me to my main in Super Smash Bros, King K Rool. #launchangle
most most likely likely to to cause cause aa zombie zombie apocalypse apocalypse MAITRAIYEE MOHAN
MICHAEL IZZI
My hobbies include creating mass hysteria. I am inspired by my classmates who fight with me on the 2020 class GroupMe and whoever came up with this because I do not even know what it means to start a zombie apocalypse. I would like to thank Ira Kourtney Chandra and Kris. ~bomboclaat
I enjoy playing baseball, working out, and hanging with friends. My father inspires me because he is a hard worker and always pushed me in school and baseball when I was younger. I would like to thank Anish Yennam for being a role model for me since a young age. He has always pushed me in baseball and in school, and I can not thank him enough.
most likely to trip at graduation CAMRYN GARLAND
BRIAN MENETRE
My hobbies include hanging with friends, going on adventures, playing softball, and just goofing off. My mother and, of course, TikTok are my biggest inspirations. I would like to thank my parents and brother for making me who I am.
My hobbies include semi-pro croquet, train spotting, and pie-making. My inspiration is Matthew McConaughey. I want to thank everyone who voted for me, as I have aspired to earn this award since freshman year. I also want to thank TJ Brown. I will do my best to live up to these expectations.
next next kardashian kardashian
KRISTINA CARLSON
My hobbies include taking pictures, painting, hanging out with friends, and watching movies. My parents inspire me.
KULP DHRU I am inspired by Paris Hilton. I would like to thank my parents for not only providing everything for me, but for keeping our cable TV so I can watch all the KUWTK I want, as well as my friends and their unconditional love and support, and, of course, my dog, whom I love so much. Kim Kardashian once said, “There’s a lot of baggage that comes with me. But it’s like Louis Vuitton baggage. You always want it.”
THE MESSENGER | 9
future future late late night night host host CARLY SHINDLER
I do musical theater, but I am not a theater kid, teach in the CBI class, and a special-needs art class, and I like steak and pandas. Smoothies are my jam, and I like paint mixing videos. My inspirations include my mom and dad, but also one of the CBI teachers, Crystal Kehres, because she is the best. I would like to thank the academy, the Starbucks in Johns Creek Village, and mostly math teacher Steven Bombard for getting me to this point in my life. Something funny -- I thought titan was spelled titian until junior year. Something serious -- It is a damn good day to be a Titan.
ms. simply simply southern southern ABBY STRICKLAND
I enjoy reading, picnics, watching the sunrise and sunset, supporting friends at sporting events, serving the community, getting to know people, and hanging with my family. People, in general, inspire me, but specifically, my friends inspire me when I see their hearts and how willing they are to love each other. I would like to thank my mom and dad because they have loved me so well my entire life and have always urged me to chase after my dreams. I would also like to thank Coach Clifton Morgan and Coach James Young for their willingness to listen as I poured out my heart that was full of confusion, sadness, and, at times, anger. Thank you both so much for always pointing me back to the bigger picture and encouraging me. Also, Graham crackers paired with cheese are the absolute best combo ever, and everyone should try it at least once before they die.
ARYA VAJPAYEE
I like to watch, read, play, and collect things. I am inspired by MS Dhoni, George Lucas, and Eiichiro Oda. I would like to thank Megan Hart and all my other teachers. I want to give a shoutout to my dog Po. I would also like to thank Anish M., Aanjan, Abdu, Anish Y., Kapish, Tejas, Nathan Y., Alex B., Pranay, Ruhan, Arish, Kevin S., Sharavanan, Samay, Ameya, Binayak, Dev, Ritij, Hrishi, Neel, Apaar, Albert, Jason Z., Sam X. and Aidan S. I want to give a special thanks to Beta Club and Troupe 6577.
mr. vineyard vines LOGAN TOLNAI I enjoy spending time with friends and family, and I am inspired by Joey Chestnut.
biggest boomer ELIZABETH NICHOLS
JARED PALEFSKI
My interests include nutrition, soccer, painting, coloring, hiking, snowboarding, dancing, and legit, anything with my friends. My friends and family inspire me. I would just like to thank my friends for always being there for me, and I cannot imagine my life without them.
My family and friends inspire me. I am motivated by my losses and mistakes. I strive to make everyone smile. I would like to thank the class of 2020, my friends, family, teachers, and anyone that has pushed me to become the person I am today. If you have to walk over someone to get somewhere, you are going the wrong way. Change people’s lives one smile at a time.
part time student Piper Baylor and Apaar Bhatnagar were the winners of “Part Time Student” also known as “Most ‘Excused’ Absences”. Unfortunately, but not surprisingly, Piper and Apaar both failed to submit photos and bios. We can’t make this stuff up.
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best best shoe shoe game game RIPLEY SIMONE KENNEBREW
DANNY DESILVA I love playing pick-up basketball
with the boys, and I love lacrosse. I enjoy collecting sneakers because I have to keep looking fresh. My dad and mom inspire me greatly, and so does my friend Cooper, who passed away from cancer back when I was in middle school. Every year I get custom cleats with his initials, CO, all over them. I would like to thank my mom and dad for always being there for me and never giving up on me. It is a great day to be a Titan, and add me on Snapchat @ danny_desilva8.
I enjoy baking, watching Netflix, hanging out with friends and family, reading, and practicing photography. My parents, my friends, and the kids in my small group all inspire me. I would like to thank my mami for buying all of my shoes and clothes. Thank you to all of the shoe designers whose shoes I wear and to all of the people who give me compliments on my outfits because they make my day.
mr. mr. & & ms. ms. class class of of 2020 2020
GABBY MITROVICH
ZAC MITHANI
My interests are anything creative. I like to study film, create movies, draw or paint in my sketchbook, and listen to new music. My biggest inspiration would probably be Tyler the Creator because he puts passion into everything he does and does not care what people say about him. I would like to thank Zac because he has been by my side through thick and thin, and he constantly makes me happy.
class class clown clown KYLE WARMACK I like to take long walks along the sidewalk while listening to Shakira. My dog inspires me. I would like to thank anyone that owns a Honda. I hope I made this year a funny one.
best best all all around around SAMANTHA IZZI
My hobbies are hanging out with my friends, shopping, and watching Netflix. My mom inspires me because she cares so much about others and always puts her family first. I would like to thank the entire class of 2020 for being the best group of people and making the past four years so fun.
My interests include playing video games, coding, playing basketball, and listening to music. I would like to thank Gabby and my mom for always being there for me.
CATHERINE SHIH
I love baking and leaving the dirty dishes for my mom to clean. I am inspired by the teachers at Northview who let me say the riskiest, weirdest things in their classes and laughed and by people who are always happy and supportive no matter what. I would like to thank my homies and my teachers for being the best and getting me this far in life. Thanks to my parents for birthing me, too. This is kind of funny, but one of my teachers talked about a quesadilla in my recommendation letter, and I got into college! I will miss singing and yelling at school. Also, follow my TikTok @911pickupnow.
TRAVIS BUCHANAN
I enjoy taking candlelit bubble baths and braiding hair. My inspirations are AP Physics and Officer Brian Collins. I would like to thank Principal Brian Downey for guiding me down the path of success and making me always obey PBIS. Thank you Northview, and thank you to all my outstanding teachers.
THE MESSENGER | 11
i e n o S v r e c i d
The Messenger’s seniors offer their high school wisdom
Erin Shin
Upasna Kotakonda Just have fun during high school. Go to football games, pep rallies, homecoming, prom, and everything else you possibly can. Trust me, those will be the memories you will remember for the rest of your life. Treat every day like it’s your last because you never know when the next pandemic will happen. And it is always a great day to be a Titan.
Try to have as much fun as you can. Enjoy everything as much as you can. Especially in your senior year, because who knows what might happen, a worldwide pandemic could happen and take it away from you.
RipLey Simone Kennebrew
Take advantage of and enjoy every opportunity that is presented to you. Life is too short to have regrets, especially in the short time period when you’re in high school. Don’t be afraid to raise your hand, ask that guy or girl to the dance, sign up for a club, or play a sport. Chances and opportunities aren’t going to knock on your door, you have to find them yourself so be afraid and do it anyway.
Daniel Martinez
Most things don’t matter in the long run; that is, besides the things that do. Pick your battles, and definitely don’t waste your time by worrying about things beyond your control. Stay focused, but not too focused to appreciate and enjoy all that you have around you.
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FEATURES
Mira Sydow
Make a list. As conceited as you are, your premature brain cannot possibly recall the countless tasks thrust upon you continuously over the course of eight hours every day. Make. A damn. List. And always have a few landmark Supreme Court cases handy; for some reason, I end up using those fairly often.
There’s a natural balance to everything. Look at the planets: they manage to rotate, revolve, and maintain constant arcs even though they’re miles away from each other. Sure, some have craters, some move a bit wonky, others have to constantly validate their planet-ness. But ultimately, they just go with the flow. Be a planet. Also, be punctual.
Your grades aren’t everything, Corona taught me that. Sitting at home, I don’t think about how I wish I did better on that test or how I wish I took an AP class. All I think about is how I wish I hugged my friends more, told my teachers how much I appreciate them, and actually tried to enjoy the morning. Be excited that you have years left of high school and don’t waste your time wishing it was going faster.
Zainab Qadri Don’t let school consume you because part of the high school experience is the memories you make. That being said, on those late nights when you’re ready to give up studying at midnight, putting in the extra hour will go a long way. Sleep is for the weak.
Alex Perry
Jennah Sooknanan
Sean O’Neal
Everyone is so worried about what others think of them, that they’re oftentimes too busy to judge you. Everybody is human. Do whatever you like, talk with whoever you want to, make friends with anybody who you’d like to get to know. You’ll only be around them a short while - it’s worth it to take any chance you have to make a good friend.
THE MESSENGER | 13
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times change FEATURES
MIRA SYDOW, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
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THE MESSENGER | 15
*nathan yoo
This year, for the senior issue, The Messenger interviewed four students twice: in their first semester of senior year, and in their second semester. First semester, the seniors expressed their dreams and expectations. Second semester took everyone by surprise.
MEGAN SERFONTEIN, STAFF WRITER
Use the QR code below to read interviews with Class Council Vice President Albert Zhang and Northview Morning host Michael Alton.
april T
hroughout high school, senior Nathan Yoo has been actively involved in sports and multiple clubs. He played varsity lacrosse all four years, took on the role of class council treasurer during his sophomore and junior years and student council president during senior year, and was involved in Spanish Honors Society, HOSA, and National Honors Society. Now, he looks forward to his future as his senior year comes to its untimely end. Yoo has not changed much since the beginning of the year. He is still not sure what his major will ultimately be, but he wants to go down the pre-med track. Yoo leans towards a science major, possibly in biophysics, as he found his passion for physics in teacher Anu Bhardwaj’s AP physics I class and further pursued his interest in physics by taking AP physics C the year after. College is a fast-approaching next step in his life. At the beginning of his senior year, Yoo was uncertain as to where he would end up going, but he knew he wanted to apply to Emory University and the University of Georgia. He
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november
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enior Nathan Yoo is currently balancing homework, college applications, a parttime job, extracurriculars, and his social life. In addition to being on the varsity lacrosse team, he is the president of the student council. Yoo’s favorite subject is biophysics. He discovered this passion while taking a physics class junior year. “It’s not something I’ve always wanted to do, but I found out how much I enjoyed physics in Mrs. Bhardwaj’s class last year taking AP Physics I,” Yoo said. This year, Yoo hopes to continue pursuing his interest in biophysics by taking AP Physics C and is considering a major in the subject, possibly at the University of Georgia or Emory University. Although he is currently unsure which school he wants to attend, Yoo feels that the financial burden created by some colleges
will play a large role in his decision. Though many aspects of his future are uncertain, Yoo wants to contribute to society through his work, as demonstrated by the impact of his leadership in the student council. His current goal is to obtain an internship or research position in which he will be able to apply his skills. Yoo sees himself visiting developing countries and trying to make a difference in the lives of the people there through volunteer work. He believes experiences like these will not only contribute to a good cause but also expand his knowledge. Yoo hopes that as he works towards his goals, he will be able to discover who he is. “Even this year alone, I found out the things I suck at and the things I enjoy,” Yoo said. “I will get to know myself better.”
ended up applying to both schools and a couple of others, opting to stay in-state for college for personal and financial reasons. Yoo will be attending Emory come fall. His future is not yet in stone, but one year from now he wants to be working in a research lab. Yoo endeavors to help people by means of science and medicine. He has always had a knack for leadership and helping people. In school, he used his skills in the class council. In the future, he hopes to use them to find breakthroughs in science and research. Yoo plans on pursuing internships and research positions so he can apply the information he learns as an undergraduate. He also wants to travel the world to visit developing nations and use his expertise in leadership and science to help the people there with achieving technological advancement. Yoo hopes that by volunteering in developing nations, he will not only be contributing to a good cause but also increasing his hands-on experience, which will set him ahead as he goes on to medical school. Yoo is not sure what he will do in medical school or whether or not he will even end up in medical
school, but he wants to get as far in his chosen career as possible so he can help more people. “In my future, I want to be working at a research lab, meeting new people, and seeking new opportunities that will help me become a better person, so that I can better give back to others,” Yoo said. No matter what the future entails for him, Yoo wants to become the best version of himself by learning more about himself, as he thinks it will make him more successful when helping others. He has made sure to learn how to best wield his strengths and how to overcome his weaknesses. Yoo’s mother inspires him, as she raised him and his brother as a single mother and never gave up, despite how challenging her situation was. This year, Yoo thinks he has grown as a person by learning the fleeting nature of life during the COVID-19 pandemic, which caused his senior year to get cut short. “I was always looking ahead to the future wishfully thinking about my ideal scenario,” Yoo said. “But I realize now that I should appreciate everything a lot more.”
Nathan Yoo poses for lacrosse photos MICHAEL MIXON, SPECIAL
Northview’s stadium, abandoned at sunset MIRA SYDOW, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
THE MESSENGER | 17
A sign made by parents to honor the senior class on the fence of Northview’s senior parking lot MIRA SYDOW, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Ann Philip poses for a professional photo for Student Leadership of Johns Creek SPECIAL
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*ann philip
For more interviews with Senior Class Vice President and Salutatorian Albert Zhang and Northview Morning host Michael Alton, use the QR code on the previous page, or visit nhsmessenger.org/times-change.
BEDANSH PANDEY, STAFF WRITER
november
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rom being senior class president to tutoring kids in Dunwoody, Ann Philip loves to get involved. Although she believes being a senior is very different from being an underclassman with the added stress of things like college applications to worry about, Philip enjoys the privileges, which seem especially rewarding after being an underclassman for so long. “There’s so many advantages that you have as a senior. A lot of special things we get to do, from football games to pep rallies to class
pictures or senior treats and stuff like that,” Philip said. She plans to attend college after Northview, hoping to attend a school with good programs for public policy and political science, such as Duke, Stanford, or American University. Philip prefers these majors because she wants to use her career to help people. She currently tutors students in Dunwoody, specifically within a low-income community. Philip enjoys doing this because she feels that the students she works with have a lot of potential.
Philip first took up an interest in helping others because of her mother. “I first started tutoring kids with my mom,” Philip said. “She has a true passion for service, and I’ve definitely been exposed to a lot of that through her.” As senior class president, Philip wants to be the bridge between what students want and what they get. Even though the job is quite busy at times, she would not trade it for anything. Philip especially enjoys this role because it allows her to connect with different people in her grade.
in underprivileged communities reach their goals. Now, at the end of the year, her passion remains undimmed. For the entirety of her high school career, Phillip has even helped volunteer at Cross-Cultural Ministries, an organization located on the outskirts of Dunwoody. Her exposure to the organization is exactly what drives her love for community service. As a matter of fact, it has played such a big role in her life that one of the reasons she is choosing to stay in-state for college is to continue helping those children that she has worked with through high school. “What I’ve realized (not just this year, but over the span of years), is that Cross-Cultural Ministries deals with a lot of issues,” Phillip said. “And a lot of these issues, whether it’s financial or educational, can be bandaged. But what would really change the lives of these kids and families is policy.” Indeed, Philip believes that government policy is the ultimate key to unlocking opportunities for those in low-income communities. She put her faith so firmly in it that at the beginning of the year, she saw herself studying public policy in college and was considering Georgia State University as a potential option. “As far as in-state goes, Georgia State...is just an awesome place to be because you’re just a
block away from the capitol,” Philip said. “I think that it is the closest that you can get to hands-on experience.” Now, almost seven months later, her vision has become a reality––she is now committed to Georgia State University, majoring in public policy. Somewhere down the line, Philip sees herself working in public office and devoting her career to assisting communities no matter where it takes her. Overall, Philip feels that senior year has not changed her as much as one would expect. “Honestly, I feel like the same person–– someone who still has really big ambitions and a constant passion for a lot of what I do. But I will say that senior year has tested me and a lot of other people in a way that I think no other year has,” Philip said. “I’ve learned so much from the start of the year to now that has just affected the way that I handle situations.” At the end of the day, the lessons that she has learned from her experience at Northview will remain unparalleled by any others. Though the school year is coming to a close, and it is the end of this chapter in Philip’s life, Northview High School will forever remember this Titan. “Going to high school, that’s one thing,” Philip said. “But going to Northview, that’s something completely different.”
april A
s the senior class president, Ann Philip had hoped that the senior year experience would be comprised of two phases: the stressful part in which people apply to college, and then the relaxing part, where people could enjoy the remainder of their careers as high school students. This is what a traditional senior year would look like, but, the outbreak of COVID-19 and closing of Northview for the rest of the school year has changed that. In a cruel twist of fate, Philip’s prediction of a relaxing second semester has come true to some degree. “At least now, the seniors can be relaxed knowing that they don’t have that much to do. But at the same time, I think it’s definitely another type of relaxation because it’s not that traditional second semester that we wanted,” Philip said. “The one thing that I can tell the seniors the most is just to take this time to–– even though it’s so hard with the given situation––celebrate and be proud of everything they’ve accomplished.” Notwithstanding the traditional senior experience, there are certain things that Philip will not let the circumstances rob her of––her passion for service being amongst them. At the very beginning of the year, Philip held an avid interest in poverty alleviation, helping kids
THE MESSENGER | 19
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FEATURES
senior
messages
Teachers leave a few messages to the Class of 2020. They want to wish the seniors well in their future endeavors.
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Class of 2020 @nhsseniors
Congrats to Northview’s senior class! Joined August 2016
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Brian P Downey @briandowney15 . 1h The memory and legacy of this class will live forever in the story of Northview High School. You have left your mark here. Now, go change the world! As you go out into that world, just remember that "it's a great day to be a Titan!"
THE MESSENGER | 27
. 1h
@kbrown
Congratulations Seniors! Class of 2020, I have always been fond of telling you that you're a historic class and one of the greatest groups to ever pass through Northview High School. Certainly, that is true even now, as you graduate in this monumental era. I have taught many of you over all four years, since I had you as a freshman in Gov, sophomore in World, junior in U.S. History, and senior in APHG. I've watched you "grow up" before my eyes. I share an extraordinary bond with so many of you and love you all so much! Over the years, I got to create many special memories with your class, from awesome food days and rice Krispy treaties to Hamilton the Musical, Harlem Renaissance poems, and fun, creative group work. Throughout all the smiles, laughter, mischief, music, and learning our authentic connection and respect for each other has only grown. I hope these next few days find you able to celebrate your friendships and admiration for each other, along with your unique place in history now, as you reach this notable graduation benchmark. In two decades of teaching, I count my years with all of you as one of the distinct honors I have attained. It has been a true privilege to be your teacher. Love, Ms. B.
Meredith Evans
@MrsEedu
. 1h
You did it! I am so proud of ALL of you.
Iris Muck-Batticks @muchbatticksi . 1h Congratulations Class of 2020! Alles Gute fĂźr die Zukunft! Frau Muck
Valerie Moyer @moyerv
. 1h
Congrats Grad! You finally did it. Every late night study session, all those exams, and everything in between has led to this moment. The work was worth it! Here is to you, your success, and new beginnings.
Ashley Ulrich @ulrichlit
. 1h
congrats
Kalan Brownthwaite
You're a resilient and dynamic group of people, and you each have strength that will help you achieve your dreams. I wish you all the best, and I'm so proud of all you've accomplished! I'll miss you kids! Special shoutout to Sean O'Neal -- the best teacher assistant ever! Thank you for being such a special part of our second period AP Lang class this year. 28
Use the QR code to see more well wishes from friends and family.
Class of 2020
. 1h
Stephanie McCall @mccall
May you be as fascinating as a slap bracelet May you keep the chaos and the clutter off your desk May you have unquestionable health and less stress Having no possessions though immeasurable wealth May you get a gold star on your next test May your educated guesses always be correct And may you win prizes shining like diamonds May you really own it each moment to the next And may the best of your todays be the worst of your tomorrows And may the road less paved be the road that you follow Jason Mraz says it best. I want you to have it all.
. 1h
Megan Hart Sekman @hartlit
From the moment you all walked into the building in August 2016, I knew you were special. All four years, you have brought me so much joy, laughter -- and some struggles, too. I am honored that I was able to be a part of your lives. I cannot wait to hear about your adventures in the great beyond. I wish you happiness and strength to deal to with the bad days. So much love to you all!
Chris Kemp
. 1h
@kempc
Congratulations - best of luck in your future! Hard work pays off!
Laurie Rogers
@rogers
. 1h
Congratulations! To those of you who survived my Honors Chemistry/APES/Chemistry class or attended HOSA in ninth or tenth grade or performed in International Night: please continue to work hard, be kind, dance, live sustainably, make the world a better place, and have a wonderful life!
Andy Alhade
@andy_alhadeff
. 1h
Class of 2020: It has been a joy to watch y’all grow. Congrats on graduating. Strive for greatness as you move on! THE MESSENGER | 29
gallery
UPASNA KOTAKONDA, PHOTO EDITOR Alexander Byman and Dana Hoffman cheer at the Homecoming pep rally.
A group of senior girls pose at Sadies on Valentine’s Day. MNEMOSYNE STAFF, SPECIAL
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UPASNA KOTAKONDA, PHOTO EDITOR Students cheer in red, white, and blue at a football game.
Seniors grin in all black for a pep rally. UPASNA KOTAKONDA, PHOTO EDITOR
COLUMNS
UPASNA KOTAKONDA, PHOTO EDITOR A group of senior boys face off against teachers at the spring pep rally.
Students celebrate a touchdown with a powder toss. JENNIFER XIA, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
ISHA RASTOGI, STAFF WRITER Seniors smile at the annual Willstock music festival.
Rani Patel and Kulp Dhru dance at International Night. UPASNA KOTAKONDA, PHOTO EDITOR
THE MESSENGER | 31
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