Vol. 19, Issue 2

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THE MESSENGER VOL 19/ISS 2

COLLEGE LIST

The Messenger’s annual list of future plans

pg. 22

SENIOR SUPERLATIVES

pg. 10

SENIOR ISSUE

THE NEXT STEP

THE MESSENGER | 1

staff CONTACT US

EDITORS-IN-CHIEF

(770) 497-3828 nhsmessenger@gmail.com 10625 Parsons Rd Johns Creek, GA 30097 nhsmessenger.org

Meghana Ramineni Jennifer Xia

PUBLICATION The Messenger is a student publication published for and distributed to the Northview High School community. The Messenger’s intent is to inform, entertain, and educate its readers; to provide a forum for the Northview community; to express attitudes and opinions; to provide an educational opportunity for both the students who produce The Messenger and those who read it, and to provide a medium for commercial messages.

ADVERTISING The Messenger publishes advertisements with signed contracts provided that they are deemed appropriate by the staff for the intended audience.

Businesses and organizations may advertise with The Messenger by filling out an advertisement order form. More information can be found on The Messenger Online.

THE MESSENGER ONLINE Find us on The Messenger Online (nhsmessenger.org) for our policies and more coverage.

SCAN ME IN THIS ISSUE

Cover Photo: Jennifer Xia

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MANAGING PRINT AND DESIGN EDITOR Melissa Liu

MANAGING ONLINE AND SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR Grace Peng

COPY EDITOR Megan Serfontein

NEWS EDITOR Bedansh Pandey

SPORTS EDITOR Nikki Skyer

FEATURES EDITOR Manasa Premanand

OPINIONS EDITOR Anshi Vajpayee

ADVISER

Meredith Evans

STAFF

Sameeksha Agarwal Abhay Bethur Cameron Chappell Ria Dubey Rachel Everett Sanjana Gopu Reagan Horne Disha Kumar Suhani Mahajan Sofia Mang Noelle Reid Juliette Salah Madisyn Signal Caleb Smith Brandon Tung Krystal Wu

contents 04

14

STAFF

GRACE PENG

DEAR DOWNEY

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EDITOR’S LETTER MEGHANA RAMINENI

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SPORTS HIGHLIGHTS DISHA KUMAR NIKKI SKYER

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SENIOR SUPERLATIVES

JENNIFER XIA

SENIOR ADVICE

15

*

SENIOR TIME CAPSULES MEGAN SERFONTEIN MANASA PREMANAND

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NHS MEMORIES BEDANSH PANDEY SUHANI MAHAJAN

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EDITOR’S LETTER

JENNIFER XIA

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MESSAGES TO THE SENIOR CLASS

GRACE PENG

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GALLERY JENNIFER XIA

22

2021 COLLEGE LIST

MELISSA LIU

THE MESSENGER | 3

DEAR DOWNEY

JENNIFER XIA, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

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It's about time we got up on our own soapbox.

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his year has not been the easiest transition for any of us, but The Messenger is grateful to have had your continued support. Although our lunch time press conferences have turned virtual, the quality of that time is unchanged. We are so lucky to be a part of your monthly calendar to talk about some uncomfortable topics. We thank you for allowing us to do our part as student journalists and dig deeper with all the resources you can provide. It truly is one of the highlights of each month.Your support not only helped us to pull through the challenges, but it also allowed us the room to improve and grow as a publication and staff.

This year especially, we appreciate your reassuring outlook and constant updates on the many uncertainties of the year. You have played such a major part in helping us establish our identity as Northview’s main news source for the student body. We’d like to think you were part of the reason our social media following has grown from a measly 200 to over 900 just on one platform.

In particular, we would like to thank you for making this year’s senior issue possible. Our final issue of the year aims to be representative of our seniors as a gift to highlight their accomplishments and memories of high school; we are extremely grateful for your involvement in allowing us to print and distribute this special issue to all of our seniors. It is even more meaningful that this is the only issue we are able to print this year.

From the seniors, specifically, we all remember sitting with you (and possibly being scared of you) as freshmen in the 700 hall not knowing how much of an impact you would have on the next four years. We couldn’t have asked for a better principal to represent our high school for a major chapter of our lives.

Even with this school year coming to an end and our seniors on staff graduating, with the help of your constant support, we are optimistic and confident that The Messenger will be able to continue to grow and succeed. Thank you.

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Word Cookies!

U nlike many others, I joined journalism with no knowledge of what it meant or a passion for journalistic endeavors. So, my first day four years ago was incredibly terrifying. It didn’t help that I was only able to attend the class after two weeks due to schedule changes; at that point, the other new staffers were already instructed on the workings of a publication, and I felt like Elle Woods during her first Harvard class: unaware and extremely out-of-place.

The weeks passed, and with Jennifer guiding me through almost everything, I was able to learn what “dubby” means, how to transcribe interviews, and how to open an InDesign file, along with many other daunting aspects of the class. It feels unreal that a small interest in writing led me to taking journalism, and what started out as a small interest has grown into a passion for writing and reporting on events in our school and community. However, I’ve realized that it’s not only the journalistic aspect of the class that has helped me grow, but also the individuals I’ve connected with that brighten my experience everyday.

Word Cookies. The addictive and stimulating word game that many of us love to play. With the challenges, the daily spinner to win coins, and multiple levels, who wouldn’t love endlessly

playing this game? Although I didn’t know what to expect from journalism, I definitely didn’t imagine Jennifer and I bonding for an entire year by playing Word Cookies. I didn’t imagine embarrassing paper plate awards, endless laughs and photos on our NSPA trips, or the joy of eating pizza on deadline nights. I didn’t imagine becoming a meme for eating grilled cheese everyday, decorating an entire case with magazines, getting excited over fuzzy socks for Secret Santa, or making Valentine’s Day waffles in the lab.

Interacting with such a diverse group of people is such a special experience that I hope to find myself in again in the future. The Messenger staff and publication have made my time in high school so much more enriching and exciting. I look up to the staffers that have positively impacted my life and, as I think back, I hope that I have done the same for others. I am confident that Mrs. Evans will continue to lead a great staff and the ideas, personalities, and skills of new and continuing staffers will help The Messenger continue to shine; and so, I am incredibly grateful for my time on staff and will miss every aspect of it (I do however request our memes be taken off the wall, since I would prefer not to be remembered as the “grilled cheese girl”).

Meghana Ramineni, Editor-in-Chief

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sports in REview Northview’s sports teams reflect on their successful seasons

DISHA KUMAR, STAFF WRITER NIKKI SKYER, SPORTS EDITOR

FOOTBALL

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he football program played a great fall season and experienced lots of team bonding. Although the boys would have liked to win more games, they feel that they have made real improvements in skill and group dynamics.

“I think we are in another rebuilding season for our football team, our new coach brought a different dimension to the program, along with hope for a bright future,” Junior Patrick Hester said.

The team plans on working harder than ever during the offseason, in hopes that they will see their hard work pay off in games. They have experienced several big changes this year, as a new coach and young players join them, as well as adjustments due to COVID-19. Despite their hardships, this group shows great potential and is determined to continue improving each day.

ones. They ended in fourth place regionally and qualified for state playoffs.

“Our performance this year was much better than last,” senior Shrey Bhatia said.

“The team’s goal for next year is to host a playoff game, achieved by ending first or second in the region.”

The boys have maintained their driven work ethic and their seniors feel good about the place they will leave the team in as they move on to college. The senior girls also have great confidence in their team’s future and are grateful for how special their teammates have

JENNIFER XIA, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

BASKETBALL

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SOCCER

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orthview soccer has made great strides this year, overcoming struggles, and working hard to improve each team’s dynamic. The boys’ varsity team got off to a slightly shaky start but did not let that stop them from gaining new skills and refining old

Senior Caden Dickey looks for a teamate to pass the ball JENNIFER XIA, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Senior Lily Logan prevents an opponent from getting the ball JENNIFER XIA, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

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Senior Alahna Richards reaches for the ball

made their final season feel. The girls’ varsity team has had their fair share of hardships, having practices very early in the morning each week and even having to quarantine twice during the season. The girls do not let these things hold them back and are always working on their skills and group cohesion.

“We are a young team, especially in our new region, but I see plenty of success in the Northview Titans soccer program’s future,” senior Lily Logan said.

The soccer program plans to continue its efforts and reach the playoffs again next year.

These athletes make it clearer each day that their futures are bright and that their hard work is paying off.

he entirety of Northview’s basketball program has faced many highs and lows throughout this season. The girls’ varsity team feels proud of the work they have produced, having gone from only one win to six. They saw lots of changes, welcoming new members to the team and pushing past the barriers that the pandemic placed in front of them.

“We definitely went through times of hardships, as COVID-19 was not on our side this season,” Sophomore Ty Hicken said. “We were hoping to win more games than we did, and those losses weren’t easy, but we made it through and made great memories.”

The girls shared constant laughter and loved dedicating time to growing closer as a group. The positive mindsets that they have developed will guide them into next season as they lose two key players and work to prepare themselves for what comes their way.

The boys’ basketball team has also had a season filled with complications and learning curves but is in a great place as the year comes to a close. The group is highly pleased with this season and looks forward to making more memories, like the excitement the players shared when senior Logan Ricks scored a game-tying three-pointer in their 16-point comeback win against Decatur High School.

Many sophomores and juniors are preparing to step up next season as senior leaders leave

SPORTS

Senior David Shriner reaches first base GRACE PENG, MANAGING EDITOR

the program, and they plan to expand on the successes of this past year.

“This season for the team as a whole was just short of extraordinary. We were one game away from taking the team to the state playoffs, which was bittersweet, but we have a lot of people who are ready to step up next year,” junior Parker Gonzalez said. “I think it will be a rewarding senior season for me and other seniors.”

and positive attitudes. As the next season approaches, the girls are working hard to improve their skills and are looking forward to having seven seniors who will play. The team recognizes that certain areas need improvement but have plans to achieve goals and overcome struggles. The girls enjoyed spending time together and strengthening their bonds this year.

“Some memorable moments for me this season were our bus rides; while we didn’t get to go out or get food together, I’m glad that we were at least able to have fun bus rides and get closer,” junior and catcher Hana Cobia said.

Younger girls stepped up as emerging leaders this year to fill the spots left by past seniors. As the season comes to a close, the team feels confident about its place and looks forward to exciting moments in the future.

BASEBALL

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orthview’s baseball players worked hard this season and reached new goals that they have long been in the works. The boys made lots of memories and especially enjoyed a victory in their second game against Southwest Dekalb after losing to them previously. The team is very young, possessing lots of strong skills among its underclassmen players. The team’s future is quite promising, as the boys are continuously building on their abilities.

“I get along well with my teammates and we had a really good group of guys this year.

We did extremely well in comparison to previous seasons, and I think we’re in a good spot and should be playoff contenders next year as well,” right fielder Kush Santosh said.

The baseball program has seen impacts of COVID-19 for a while, as they are a spring sport and had their season cut short at the very beginning of the pandemic. Despite past issues and adversity, the boys have productive mindsets, help build each other up, and have big plans for the future of their program.

SOFTBALL

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he Northview softball team faced roadblocks this year but is an undoubtedly strong group filled with perseverance

Senior Jake Caylor blocks an opponent from obtaining the ball JENNIFER XIA, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

LACROSSE

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oth the boys’ and girls’ lacrosse teams worked hard this year to shake off the rust from their time off and jump back into their busy seasons. The girls’ varsity team qualified for playoffs for the first time in several years. They have played several away games this season and especially enjoyed bus rides together talking, playing games, listening to music, and generally improving team relationships off the field.

“I could not be happier with the place the team is in. We have improved so much not only over the course of this season, but over the past four years,” senior Eleanor Virag said.

The boys’ program has utilized strong team chemistry and effort in order to do their best in each game and place themselves closer to personal and team goals each time they step onto the field. Seniors, like Eric Caceres,

who has played for Northview since freshman year, are optimistic about the future of boys’ lacrosse and how younger players will use what they have learned this year.

“Since we have less players than that of past years, we have to be much more motivated to win, and every player has to do their part to lead the team to a successful season and win,” Caceres said.

Based on this season’s accomplishments, Northview lacrosse continues to hold high expectations for future seasons, which includes making and succeeding in the playoffs. The abundance of talent and motivation throughout the program are sure to aid players in the rest of their lacrosse careers.

CHEER

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he cheer program’s season consisted of fun moments and memory-making. The season lasted three months longer than usual due to the pandemic, resulting in extended practices that brought on new challenges. Although the players faced long practices each day for over six months, they have experienced a new connection amongst each other that prepares them for next year. New team members fit in well with the group, bringing new personalities and serving different roles.

“Right now, we have such talent and skill on the team that I haven’t seen in so long. I really do think that this next season, my senior season, will be one of the best that cheer will have,” junior Selena Dibiase said.

The group enjoyed special moments at practice, laughing, hanging out together, and talking to old and new teammates. As next year approaches and many of the girls enter their senior season, the strength of the team is showing and a clear path to victory lies ahead for the Northview cheer program.

Senior Emily McCormick participates in a cheer routine GRACE PENG, MANAGING EDITOR

THE MESSENGER | 7

VOLLEYBALL

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Senior Kamal Korrapati kicks the ball away from an opponent JENNIFER XIA, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

orthview’s volleyball program had an exceptional season, working to incorporate new players and honor the 6 senior members of the varsity team. The team enjoyed practicing together and utilizing teamwork to win games and work toward goals. The girls celebrating making the “Sweet 16” level of the state tournament by beating Jackson County, left them with a feeling of pride and satisfaction.

“Our team went out stronger than ever this year and our two captains, Emma Wisham and Mallory Free, made sure of that. I’m excited to see where the team goes in the next season when new players join the team,” freshman Katherine Marshall said.

SWIMMING

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ith their largest number of swimmers qualifying for state, Northview swimming broke records from previous years. There were several new members on the team this year who qualified in both individual events and relays.

“I’m so proud of the success that our team has accomplished this year despite the obstacles that we’ve had,” senior Susie Pan said.

“From my four years on the team, I would say that regarding the results, this is likely the best we’ve been overall.”

Although the pandemic imposed restrictions on full-team practices, the swimmers utilized this time to cultivate their skills with extra coaching. The state qualifications from this year’s first meet alone surpassed the total number of qualifications from last year.

“The results we’ve achieved at meets this year have gone beyond what I’ve expected, with personal bests for many of us,” Pan said.

“We’re so proud of each other.”

WRESTLING

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mall but mighty, Northview’s wrestling team finished off another great season. Both of the wrestlers on the team, sophomore Ansh Misra and junior Naeema Qureshi, qualified for and competed in the state tournament.

“We both owe all of the success we had this year to the coaches at Morris Fitness, Coach Charlie and Coach Khalil,” Misra said. “They pushed us to become better wrestlers and better humans.”

Although there were fewer matches this year because of the pandemic, the wrestlers feel that their hard work, from 5:30 a.m. practices to evening drills, was well worth it.

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The volleyball team celebrates its qualification for state playoffs JENNIFER XIA, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

The senior players are sad to be leaving their teammates soon but have confidence that the program will continue to grow and succeed because of the potential they see in younger players.

“The team is full of talent and I have very high hopes for them. Their energy and motivation to succeed are so high, I can only see them going up from here,” senior Kate Holland said.

The team hopes to participate in the state playoffs again and go even further in future seasons. The talent and drive throughout the volleyball program are clear and the players and coaches are excited to see what they achieve moving forward.

inaugural Johns Creek Cricket Association high school tournament, placing first. While some team members have found it difficult to develop chemistry and meet the high standards they set for themselves, they are still hopeful about winning the state title with their 1-2 record.

“We approach every game with the same attitude and mindset, bearing in mind we represent our school and what the four pillars stand for,” sophomore Ateendra Subramanian said.

The team has also seen strong individual performances this season. Junior Akhil Swarna won his first match as a captain, and team captain Viraj Vaghela scored a 100. In this same match, the team put up an astonishing total of 225 runs, the highest score in league history. While Subramanian believes that every member of the team was instrumental to the success of the season, he owes his gratitude to two people in particular: one a leader, the other a mentor.

“Viraj’s captaincy style is like no other; his passion and drive for the sport are unmatched,” Subramanian said. “He holds high standards for his players, whom he doesn’t just see as teammates, but as family.”

The second person is Northview’s cricket coach, John McCombe. McCombe has helped the players master the sport at a young age, and now that the Johns Creek Cricket Association has made the sport more accessible to the youth of this area, Subramanian cannot wait to see what lies ahead for the members of his team.

“Northview cricket truly represents what cricket is all about,” Subramanian said. “Enjoying the small improvements we make at practices, collaborating as a team, and being cooperative with each other.”

CRICKET

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ith injuries and unavailable numbers, Northview’s cricket team was off to a rocky start. Despite these odds, the team had an exceptional performance at the

Senior Erica Scutt swings her club ALLISON CLOUGH, SPECIAL

SPORTS

GOLF

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orthview’s golf team encountered several achievements while swinging through the season. In addition to higher scores from previous seasons, the girls’ team had four consecutive wins and one runner-up finish, earning hardware at almost every tournament. There were individual successes as well, with senior Erica Scutt, the team captain, and junior Alice Choi both earning low medalist titles and a team pair win.

“Even though golf is an individual sport, my teammates want me to play my best game, and I want my teammates to play their best game,” Choi said. “There is less pressure when your teammates are with you because you know they can lift you up whether the shot was good or bad.”

Having fun on and off the course, the team has worked hard this year and hopes to place at the state tournament. The boys’ team also made many improvements this year despite having its good and bad days. With the boys finishing as the runner-up team in the region, both of the teams are now headed to the state championship in Columbus, “It was very discouraging to see my balls constantly flying into the woods and landing nowhere close to the hole, but soon my old skills came back, and I was able to break a 50, qualifying me for multiple tournaments,” junior Andrew Park said.

ous year graduated and the team had to work with a new coach. However, despite these changes, girls’ tennis is ready to embrace the new circumstances to win the state title.

“Every member places the team before herself, and that’s the team spirit that has carried us through this season,” junior Tina Dong said.

The boys’ tennis team has also improved, playing in a new conference this year. Although tough rounds prevented the team from winning the region title, the players had strong individual performances.

“Things don’t always go the way you want them to, and you’ve just got to live with that and move on to the next match,” Philip said.

Philip credits the team’s success to the entire roster, and with the championship trophy within arm’s reach, he hopes that the team can attain the coveted state title.

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JENNIFER XIA, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

during a race with your friends encouraging you from the sidelines,” McCloud said.

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Joseph Cunningham and Andrew Skeens run during practice CHRISTAIN DOZIER, MNEMOSYNE STAFF

CROSS COUNTRY AND TRACK

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Senior Christopher Yu prepares to hit the ball

JENNIFER XIA, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

E-SPORTS

TENNIS

orthview’s tennis teams are also making great strides toward the end of a successful season. As of now, the girls’ team has an undefeated 6-0 record and will head to the state tournament as the second seed team.

Several of the varsity players from the previ-

Senior Tyler Zhang attacks in a game of League of Legends

he cross country and track teams both wrapped up another successful year. The varsity teams qualified for state, and several athletes qualified for playoffs.

“Everybody worked hard at practices which paid off in the meets,” junior Eliza McCloud said. “I am confident about our upcoming season.”

Even though there are several seniors on the team who will graduate this year, there are also strong, younger runners who will step up and take their places. McCloud recalls that the most memorable moments from this season involved cheering on her teammates.

“Everybody is really supportive of one another, and it feels really good to be running

ationally ranked in multiple leagues, Northview’s esports team a series of unprecedented achievements during its first full season. With its experienced players, all divisions of the team made playoffs in their respective leagues.

“I feel that we are a stronger and better team than we were last year,” sophomore Grace Yang said. “I’m extremely proud of how well we’ve done.”

So far, the JV team is undefeated and placed second in a national tournament consisting of 16 high school teams. It also placed first in the eastern region, and Yang says that the members of her team look forward to going up against harder competition during the playoffs.

“I enjoy video games because they provide a mental challenge; you really have to think about every move you make in the game,” Yang said. “I think this sets esports apart from physical sports, and it is part of the reason I chose to participate in it.”

The varsity team outperformed expectations this year, placing as the state runner-up during the fall semester. It is currently ranked fourth in the state, while the JV team is ranked first in the country, and the freshman team is ranked third in its league. Two of the teams participated in the 2021 Bulldog Invitational, winning second and third place.

“My favorite moment was during playoffs of fall semester when the entire team worked together to win against difficult opponents for four straight days until finals,” senior Tyler Zhang said. “The team is like a family; everyone is close and comfortable with each other.”

THE MESSENGER | 9

senior superlatives

PHOTOS: JENNIFER XIA, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Lily Logan Well, I didn’t make my recreational Johns Creek United Methodist team, but Michael Jordan didn’t make his high school basketball team. Am I saying I’m Michael Jordan? Maybe? Keep doing your best, keep grinding, keep slaying, get big in the weight room, and succeed! These are life lessons people! Thanks for all of the love and support my fellow Titans!

Ethan Sassine

From drinking Capri-Sun at halftime while complaining about my cleats hurting to having to choose between different D1 scholarships, my soccer journey has come a long way. I want to thank my brothers who would always make fun of me after a loss, my friends who were always there to cheer me on, my coaches who pushed me to be the best version of myself, and my teammates. Finally I want to thank the most important people in my life, my parents who have always had faith in me and sacrificed everything for me to be here.

MOST ATHLETIC William shi My favorite memories of making art at Northview were homecoming decorations and the art classes I took. I would like to thank my parents and my friends for all the care and support they have given me. I am also very thankful for all my teachers, but especially Ms. Hart and Ms. Clawson, for everything they’ve taught me over the years.

julia ouyang I would just like to thank my friends, parents, and teachers for constantly supporting me. Thank you Claw for always encouraging me and guiding me to find who I am as an artist. Who knew that painting dinosaurs for homecoming week three years ago would get me here?

MOST Artistic Suraj Singareddy I’d like to thank my mom for my sense of style through sophomore year; the colors blue and yellow for carrying me these last 2 years; the fantasy section of the library for my still unrequited love for capes, boots, and ruffled, white blouses with balloon sleeves; and finally the powers that be for letting me move beyond the phase where I adjusted “fade” to 100 on each post.

Noreen Ali

I’d like to thank my fashion icon grandma, Pinterest, and Bestdressed Ashley on YouTube for inspiring me. Northview, you gave me some of the best quick outfit decision making skills with that 8:20 am start time pre-quarantine, and I’ll miss only getting ready for my 5th period class (s/o to Ms. Hart) this year when I turned my camera on.

best aesthetic

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Chandler Stevenson

FEATURES

One of the first nicknames my family gave me as a child was ‘Mr. President’, so shout out to them for seeing 17 years into the future. I’d like to thank my parents, my fellow Americans, the patriotic voters of Northview High School, and my friends who’ve supported me to be the person I am today and encouraging me to accomplish the unthinkable. With that said... Stevenson 2052?

Anoushka Misra

First and foremost, I would like to thank my parents for everything that I am today.

They pushed me to continue fighting for justice, equality, and human rights for all.

A big thank you to Northview High School Democrats. It has been the pleasure of a lifetime to serve as your Co-President. I will continue to advocate for the betterment of humanity...and who knows, maybe one day this Northview Titan will be President.

most likely

to be president ojas sharma

“Here’s to my day one bhootha. Fir, despite your first words to me (‘Who the hell are you?’), I always felt you were something special. So did Wickson. So did Mendoza. So did Brown and his 4th period. Can’t wait to see where we go next, laddie. Shout-out to the fam, the Bunker, and the many friends and teachers along the way. You all made this trip worthwhile, no codswallop. 878!”

Firas Osmani Ojas first met me as a shy, awkward seventh grader who knew nothing but polo shirts and wearing too much cologne. Since then, we’ve bonded over late night gaming sessions on Destiny and Overwatch, inside jokes like “TAAVDE” and “Cool!”, and even our iconic (often public) back-andforths. He’s made me into who I am today, whether it be by helping me with my confidence or making sure I stay grounded in the morals we both share and hold close to our hearts. And for that, I’ll always be grateful. This one’s for you, BUYD... I luh ya! More Life.

best bromance Eric Caceres

I’m very thankful for my friends and family, but also my coaches, especially McCall because without him I would probably not be graduating this year. I’ll never forget all the memories I’ve made, especially the time when the teachers cheated on the last students vs teachers basketball game, but that’s in the past. At the end of the day, it’s been a great 4 years, even better when we beat Hooch, Go Titans!

Janice Nam

This sounds SO cheesy, but I owe it all to my family, friends, teachers, coaches, counselor (Mr. Alhadeff!!!), and honorary counselor (Ms. Lee!!!). You guys deserve all of the fudge brownies in the world (and then some). I’d also like to thank Trader Joe’s for being the best grocery store, salmon for being the best fish, and most importantly, Northview for being the best school. Much love.

BEST all around Kate Holland First off I would like to thank Coach James for continuously letting me sit with Jack in 9th grade AP Gov. Much appreciated, dawg. Next I would like to thank Meggie Poo for being her special self. Also thanks Ms Hart for getting Jack into my Lit class this year. Its a great day to be a titan!

Jack Spencer She’s why I’m broke.

MR. & MS.

class of 2021

THE MESSENGER | 11

Trevor Xie uhhhhh. I’m not very good at attending classes. hahaha. Thank you for your time.

justine boice First and foremost, I’d like to thank my first period class for making this achievement possible. I’d like to thank the roaches (bug or human) for making the act of getting out of bed at 8am that much harder! I cant wait until the last “it’s a great day to be a titan!” Now for the people I actually appreciate: The lunch ladies, Ms. Reilly, my therapist, Brian Rawlin, Mrs. Deis, Mrs. Evans, pretty much the entire lit department, Mr. Pinto, Mrs. Janess, and the custodians. ya.

part time student Arnest Uddin

yo what’s up guys its ya boi arny the donut. shoutout to all my teachers being awesome this year but especially Mr. Brown and Ms. Ulrich for being literally the best teachers ever.

I’m gonna miss walking around the hallways with the boys in between class and last minute studying during b lunch. Don’t think I would have made it without my friends by my side, love you guys, that’s all. cy@

Elaine Wang Personally I don’t think this superlative fits me very well because if I DID win the lottery I wouldn’t lose the ticket like a literal loser since my memory is infallible. I’m like a god, you could say. But when I did spend five of my hard earned $1 bills on lottery tickets at 2 in the morning at QT, I didn’t win anything so the winning the lottery part of the superlative is also incorrect. But Georgia Lottery, if you’re reading this, I’d love to test this superlative further.

Just hmu with a winning ticket for at least $50 million; thanks!

most likely to win the lottery &

lose the ticket Benjamin Jin My name is Benjamin Jin. My birthday is May 7, 2003. I like to play basketball, watch tv shows/movies, and go out. My favorite color is pink. Finally, I’m not really sure how I got this title but shout out to Jamie for voting my name on the ballot.

Megan Rosenberg

I would like to thank my friends for nominating me for this superlative, seeing as it’s my biggest accomplishment thus far. Everyone that knows me well, knows that I can trip over air, especially at Shoe Gallery. On a real note, I am grateful for everything that Northview has given me. It’s been a fun trip.

most likely to trip

At Graduation Emily Benelli I dedicate this quote to the first chair on the first row in the theater. I stuck a bunch of pieces of paper down a hole in its leg my sophomore year. May those pieces of paper exist long after I am gone. May they be a reminder to all that a chair leg is a fantastic place to hide contraband confetti.

Kamal Korrapati I’d like to thank those closest to home for making me the person I am today. My inspirations include Steve Ells (founder of Chipotle) for his brilliant idea of providing fast-food in a healthy, tasty manner and Tyler the Creator for his ideals in always being true to yourself and others.

Tyler the Creator once said, “ I’m not hip-hop. I’m Tyler!” This quote still resonates with me today. Lub y’all.

future

12

late night host

Jamie Chong I wore sweatpants and no makeup to school 99% of the time so I’m honestly not sure how I got here, especially as a 5’3” Chinese girl. Anyways, Eurocentric beauty standards suck and everyone deserves to see themselves represented on the cover of Vogue. I’d like to thank my parents for my genes, the harsh modeling industry for giving me thick skin, my friends for keeping me sane, and my mirror for showing me what resilience looks like.

Ethan charles

Hey I’m Ethan, but you already knew that. High school was easier than I thought, minus sophomore year, but wasn’t that year awful for everyone?! I deeply value the connections I’ve made over these past four years, and cannot wait to take what I’ve learned from Northview into the new chapter of my life. All jokes aside, thank you to everyone who made this year the best it could be, though we were online, and I hope you all take care. Oh! And don’t forget me when I’m on that Golden Globes stage, ok?

most likely to be on the

cover of vogue Eleanor Virag Thank you to all of my friends, teachers, and coaches for helping me get through these long four years.

Brennan Smith In the beginning, God created us to be in perfect relationship with Him for His glory and for our benefit. Yet in our pride we fell into temptation, believing we knew better than a perfectly loving God and as a result we were doomed to be separated from our Lord for all eternity. God, however, was not content with this reality and chose to lay down His life as payment for our sins and rise again 3 days later to prove his authority over sin and death.

Because of this payment that we did not deserve, we have the choice to follow His plan.

Most changed since

freshmen year ibrahima barry

First and foremost I would like to thank my mom and dad who raised me to be the person I am today. I know I’m goofy and I love to laugh but that’s just my personality. Since I was a young kid I’ve always liked to make people laugh. I’m proud to be the person chosen to start a zombie apocalypse; that said, I will be remembered by my peers. I enjoyed these four years at Northview; it was a blast. Go Titans.

Ella Ma

Mildly concerning I got voted for this, since that means if I ever do want to start some sort of societal mass disaster, I apparently have vibes that lend suspicion in this regard. Didn’t know enough people knew I existed to end up here, so gaze upon my awkward standing. Fun story time; I accidentally finished off a carton of eggs once - I was frying and eating them right off the pan, and forgot to keep count, then we had no more eggs for the rest of the week. It was a sad, eggless week.

most likely to cause a

zombie apocalypse Rohan Mathew We all want things.

CLASS clown

THE MESSENGER | 13

Senior Advice The Messenger’s seniors offers their words of wisdom for high school

PHOTOS: MAGGIE XIA, SPECIAL

Meghana Ramineni High school flies by so fast! It’s insane to me how much I’ve grown since entering as a hesitant, awkward freshman and graduating as a more mature and expressive (still awkward) senior. I will definitely miss the little moments spent with friends and family, so don’t let stress get in the way of you making memories and instead cherish those around you the most!

Jennifer Xia

Be open-minded to changes; it may be the best change of your life. Take these four years to try everything. Who knows? You may love it. Don’t leave this place regretting anything. Also, if you have short term memory loss like Dory and I, I suggest religiously using a calendar.

Noelle Reid

14

You will be fine. I know things are super hectic right now, and you probably have a million things to worry about. But, you have to trust that things will turn out just the way that they are supposed to. If you spend all your time stressing about the unknowns of the future or past “what could have beens” you will never fully and truly enjoy life. The present is the most important and you won’t want it to pass you by. Slow down and enjoy what is right in front of you.

THE NEXT STEP

FEATURES

The Messenger revisits four seniors to see if their goals and aspirations have changed since last September MANASA PREMANAND, FEATURES EDITOR MEGAN SERFONTEIN, COPY EDITOR PHOTO: JENNIFER XIA, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

TO READ THEIR STORIES FROM SEPTEMBER, SCAN THE QR CODE. TO READ ABOUT SENIOR SIR PRICE II, SCAN THE QR CODE OR VISIT NHSMESSENGER. ORG/FEATURES/ALL.

THE MESSENGER | 15

E

mbracing all aspects of oneself can be difficult- especially during turbulent times like high school. However, Senior Suraj Singareddy embraces his identity as the end of his high school experience approaches, leaving behind a lasting legacy for all to see.

Singareddy is involved in a variety of clubs that are reflective of his many interests. He is the vice president of Thespian Society and president of the Gender-Sexuality Alliance (GSA) at Northview. Outside of school, he is a part of GLSEN’s National Student Council and is also the founder of Asians in Arts, a nonprofit organization that advocates for Asian representation in artistic fields.

For Singareddy, advocating for the LGBTQIA+ community and the Asian community is a must. As someone who identifies with both, Singareddy aspires to create an inclusive environment where fellow Asian and LGBTQIA+ youth can gather. During his time as the president of the Gender-Sexuality Alliance and a member of GLSEN, a nonprofit that works towards stopping the harassment and bullying of LGBTQIA+ students, Singareddy has been able to foster a safe community for LGBTQIA+ youths.

“We educate on a lot of LGBTQ-centered topics and it’s been really fulfilling as it’s very personal [to me], but also, it’s great to meet this whole community that identifies under the same label,” Singareddy said.

Singareddy is also heavily involved in activism for the Asian community. To Singareddy, as someone whose race has heavily impacted his identity, seeing people like him represented in the media is a topic that he is extremely passionate about. By starting Asians in Arts, Singareddy wanted to erase the stigma surrounding careers in the arts in the Asian community and views proper representation in media as the solution to that.

“Representation is something that I care about a lot, especially in the media because I think it really shapes how we see ourselves,” Singareddy said. “Seeing your own stories on screens, it’s really amazing, and it really makes you feel like you belong and encourages you to accept your identity.”

Quarantine provided Singareddy with an ideal environment to explore his own identity and interests. Although having his senior year held in such an unconventional manner was often inconvenient, Singareddy was able

SURAJ SINGAREDDY

sits on the stairs in front of Northview 1Singareddy 6 JENNIFER XIA, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

to learn more about himself and discover new hobbies. At the beginning of the school year, Singareddy was not too keen on reading for pleasure, nor had he anticipated how much his working in a remote setting would impact his work ethic.

“I don’t know what happened, but suddenly something clicked on, and I started enjoying the work I was doing,” Singareddy said.

“I’ve also gotten to read for fun more; I have a huge stack of books on my nightstand that’s very close to falling over.”

However, the biggest realization Singareddy made this year, one that has helped him learn and grow as a person, is that making assumptions based on people’s appearances, or basing one’s self-worth on his or her achievements, is an unhealthy mindset to hold. As the middle of senior year brought with it the climax of the college admissions process, Singareddy began to realize that the schools people attend, the grades they receive, and the achievements they make are not indicative of their personalities or their worth as people.

“In the college admissions process, when you hear that this person got into a certain school, it’s really easy to assume that they’re a certain kind of person—they’ve achieved everything, they’re perfect,” Singareddy said.

“That’s a really dangerous mindset to have when you think, ‘Oh, this school determines a person’s value’, which is not true at all.”

However, due to Northview’s competitive, academic-focused environment, more often than not, Singareddy found himself internalizing these misconceptions, all while being aware of how illogical they were. He understands the difficulties many may face in an environment like Northview and encourages people struggling with it to distance themselves from people with these toxic mindsets.

“Make sure your friends are ones who aren’t comparing themselves to others,” Singareddy said. “Surround yourself with people who are affirming and don’t always feel the need to declare themselves.”

Through his interactions with several positive-minded individuals, Singareddy has been able to thrive at Northview and leave behind an impactful legacy.

While Singareddy does have a variety of passions he holds close to his heart, he is still unsure of what career he would like to pursue in the future. Currently, he has committed to Yale University.

“I don’t know who I will be in five or 10 years, and trying to stay as [kind of ] one person will only be harmful,” Singareddy said.

“I’m going to keep doing things I’m interested in like theater, but I’m also open to a lot of other things coming way.”

TOFUN

ABIMBOLA

T

ofunmi Abimbola is a devoted and energetic student, friend, soccer player, and class council president. In whatever Abimbola is trying to accomplish, she is determined to do it to the best of her abilities— including her past four years at Northview.

Now, she reflects on them as years of growth and self-discovery.

Abimbola regards her senior year as especially different from any other she has experienced or any other that she has expected, but she thinks fondly upon this year, calling it one of progress and perseverance.

“One word that would really sum up the year for me is growth,” Abimbola said.

Despite the challenges of the pandemic, Abimbola has had many highlights this year, including the achievements of Northview’s girls’ soccer team, which she captains, which includes currently heading to playoffs. She reflects on their standing as a way to show the team’s hard work this season. Other highlights for her include being on the homecoming court and simple things like her interactions with teachers and having a closer relationship with them.

“Just having that interaction with my teachers every day has been a huge highlight of my senior year and it makes me look forward to coming to school every day,” Abimbola said.

She is still looking forward to graduation, especially seeing all her friends and classmates go to college and out into the world since she knows that they will do good for the world no matter where they are or what they are doing. Despite not getting into her top choice of school, New York University, she is still excited and hopeful for her college years and is instead looking at other options including Pennsylvania State University, Michigan State University, and some in-state schools. No matter where Abimbola chooses to attend, she is planning to major in psychology. In the next year of her life, she hopes to be happier and make the people around her happier. She hopes for continued growth and that she never stops evolving as a person. Abimbola is excited for a new pace of life and new opportunities and experiences.

Abimbola and Singareddy discuss bagels JENNIFER XIA, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

She is really excited to find happiness in whatever new city she ends up in and hopes that she can cultivate rewarding new friendships wherever she is.

“I hope I am in a place that I am at peace with,” Abimbola said. “I want to be at a point where I am not comparing myself and I am content with what I am doing and who I am.”

In the future, Abimbola plans to become a psychiatrist and hopes to participate in internships this summer before she starts college to gain experience and connections. In whatever profession she is in, Abimbola hopes she can flourish in happiness and spread that happiness to everyone in her life. In September, her advice to her freshman and current senior self was that it is good to be selfish sometimes and that it is healthy to take care of yourself before you take care of the whole world. Abimbola has really been trying to live by this in the pandemic. She regards it as an airplane in that you

have to put on your own mask before you can help others. She says that everyone’s including her own world has been rocked by COVID-19 and she has been trying to build up her own foundation and then trying to help the people around her build theirs too.

“This year has really been one where you need to take care of yourself first or you won’t have the energy to take care of others,” Abimbola said.

Her final reflections are on talking to herself before the first day of senior year. She would go back and make sure that she knows to savor and live in every moment since she won’t get these experiences twice and one day it will get her through her homesickness.

“I would tell myself this is going to be a year of change and prepare for that but also embrace it,” Abimbola said. “It’s going to throw you off your feet at first, but you will find your footing again so love every moment.”

THE MESSENGER | 17

NAM T

Nam describes her future career prospects JENNIFER XIA, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

18

hroughout high school, Janice Nam has been an involved and active student. As her time at Northview comes to a close, she reflects on the last four years and all that they have brought her—especially her senior year, which she has made the most of, despite the challenges of the pandemic.

Nam has regarded this year as vastly different than her past three, but she still really appreciated this year and all of its up and downs. It taught her how to appreciate all the small things in life that she previously took for granted.

“Even just the simple things like a conversation with a teacher or a friend, or being able to see a friend, those were givens, but now, I really cherish those interactions,” Nam said.

She also holds this year as a year of growth, but not in the traditional sense. Rather than typical growth which starts at one point and ends at another, Nam has seen herself grow in the sense of being able to recognize other people’s struggles and be more sensitive to their situations. She has also grown to actively want to pursue change in the community.

Nam considers the highlight of her senior year to be every time she has been able to see her friends. Nam won homecoming queen in February, which was a really special moment for her. She still looks forward to special events like the senior movie night, senior carnival, and graduation. Nam is also very thankful to the teachers and staff for putting all of it together in an effort to make their final months of high school special.

“Getting to walk across the stage with my diploma in hand at graduation is really a manifestation of the work I, as well as the other students, have put in these past four years,” Nam said.

Post high school, Nam is attending Harvard University. She has already made some friends who will be going to Harvard as well next year, and she says she cannot wait to meet them in person in the fall. Nam feels blessed and excited to see what the next four years have to offer.

“I cannot thank all my teachers, friends, and family enough for their support, and it’s just very surreal, but I am so excited,” Nam said.

She is going to start out at Harvard with a major in neuroscience but is unsure if she

Nam, Singareddy, and Amimbola reflect on their senior year JENNIFER XIA, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

will change her major or not as she has many interests that she wants to explore. However, she knows that no matter what she does, she hopes she can help people. Nam is not quite sure what she wants to do as a profession, but she wants her work, whether as a neurosurgeon or a lawyer or any other profession, to give back to the communities that poured so much into her.

“I like to base my passions on the content I consume. I recently read the book ‘When Breath Becomes Air’ by Paul Kalanithi, which is about a neurosurgeon in his battle against lung cancer,” Nam said. “Reading the book, I realized like ‘oh my god, I want to be a neurosurgeon,’ but now, I am reading a new book about a lawyer who helps inmates on death row, and I am like ‘well maybe I want to be a lawyer.’”

Nam wants to be a happier and healthier version of herself and hopes that she can expand on her happiness every year from now.

She also wants to stay in touch with the people from Northview and Johns Creek and really remember where she came from. Nam also

hopes that she can be less stressed about the pandemic and that it will be safe enough for her to go to concerts in a year.

Nam is thankful to all of her teachers not only for the education they provided for her

“

ences not only prepared her for college but also taught her what it means to be well-rounded, well-read and someone who is always seeking more. While thanking all her teachers, she also highlighted their accomplishments and recent celebrations—both professional and personal—like Meredith Evans on her teacher of the year award and Raymond Brown on the birth of his son.

In August, Nam’s advice to her May self was to enjoy the time she has to spend at home with her family. She has really taken this to heart and has tried to enjoy all the little moments with her parents and brother such as watching movies together or even family dinners.

Nam’s final reflection on this year is the advice that she would have given to herself on her first day of senior year.

“Hindsight’s always 20/20, so if I could talk to myself on my first day of senior year, I would say to breathe and slow down,” Nam said. “I thought these four years would be very slow, but they’ve gone in a breeze, and you just need to enjoy the moments because one day, they will be memories.”

I th ou g h t th e se fo u r ye a rs woul d b e ve ry sl o w, b u t they’ ve go ne i n a b re e z e , and yo u j u s t ne e d to e nj oy the mo m e nts b e c a u s e o ne day, they w i l l b e m e m o ri e s .

”

JANICE NAM but also for their book and recipe recommendations, providing her lessons in more than just literature. She is also thankful for her volleyball coach, Christopher James, for always supporting her and instilling a belief in herself that she can do anything if she works hard enough at it, she is also grateful that her experi-

THE MESSENGER | 19

FEATURES

Memories for a lifetime

W

Graduating seniors reminisce on their favorite high school memories

BEDANSH PANDEY, NEWS EDITOR SUHANI MAHAJAN, STAFF WRITER

illstock

W

illstock Music Festival is an event that has become a Northview tradition and is even attended by students from other schools. Held during an early September weekend, the Will to Live 5K and Willstock are a time of celebration, a relaxed way to settle into the new school year.

The Will to Live club organizes several events and fundraisers, but the most popular is Willstock. Senior Kate Holland, who joined her freshman year, is part of the club’s leadership team this year.

“I joined because all my friends joined— that’s really why I did at first—but looking at it now, it’s just so important, especially during COVID-19. Everyone is going through their own thing, and you don’t really know what they’re going through, but it’s just nice to know that you have someone that’s there for you,” Holland said. “It’s over time that I realized it is really important to just be there for your friends and be one of those people they go to.”

The Will to Live club has held Willstock, a fundraiser for suicide awareness and prevention, for the past 10 years. The event features food, games, and live music at and around the Northview football field where the community is free to mill about.

20

Holland and her friends will miss this annual tradition of raising funds for a good cause PHOTO COURTESY OF KATE HOLLAND, SPECIAL

“People in the club get everything together for other people to come and enjoy,” senior Zoey Schwartz, another member of the Will to Live club, said. “When you’re there you just hang out. You watch and listen to music, you play games, you just talk with friends and family. Willstock is a great time to celebrate life itself surrounded by friends and family. It’s a day of fun.”

While the event itself is an experience that Northview students tend to enjoy, Holland and Schwartz especially cherish the memories since they have been in the Will to Live club, working behind the scenes for Willstock, their entire high school careers.

“I am gonna miss being a part of this and volunteering,” Holland said. “I hope I can come back during college.”

P

laced neatly on the intersection between Abbotts Bridge Road and Medlock Bridge Road, there is a collection of restaurants and stores that is often frequented by Northview students. But at the center of this shopping complex, there is a certain grocery store, in particular, that is a haven for the comforts of after-school enjoyment––H Mart.

Any Northview student can say without question that, in the hours before a home football game, H Mart is teeming with students who are a part of the school’s marching band.

Sarah Thangamani, another senior, has been part of the marching band since her freshman year, and to her, the visits to H Mart are more than just a quick snack run to a store. To her, it is a now sacred tradition that she has grown fond of.

“We always have the time to go [to H Mart] so it became a tradition, or routine where we always, always go, no matter what.

It was like an unspoken rule––let’s go down to H Mart,” Thangamani said. “It was a time where you know, you’d have a weird dynamic with AP classes and honors and just everything going on in your life. But no matter what was happening, that was one constant [tradition], which to me was really really helpful because I needed some consistency in my life throughout high school.”

Chandler Stevenson, also a senior, agrees with Thangamani wholeheartedly. He, too, is a member of the marching band and will miss the experiences surrounding his visits to the store more than anything he used to buy from it.

“It’s a special place because we never used to hang out outside of marching band just because we were all very busy,” Stevenson said.

“I got to see a side of some people that I don’t normally see at school or when we’re regularly doing things. H Mart was just the hub for us to create those experiences and memories. It’s

going to be different now with all of us scattered all over the U.S.” When asked about their single favorite memory at the store, both Stevenson and Thangamni struggled to find one. They said this was not because H Mart was an unmemorable place for them––it was quite the contrary. It was because there were just so many to choose from that one singular experience could not do it justice.

“I have so many [memories] of going to H Mart that they’re all mushed up. It would always be us going down to H Mart first, and then after we were done, we would hit up Snow Mountain and then we’d walk back,” Thangamani said. “So, I wouldn’t say I have one specific favorite memory [because] I do

have memories of every single time I would go there.”

Looking back, these were moments that marching band kids like Stevenson and Thangamni cherished in the fall of all four of their years at the school, and their trips to H Mart were a staple of their Northview experience.

But as that experience comes to a close in the final days of their senior year, they are somber as to the tradition ending starting next fall.

“No matter what, it’s gonna be weird in the fall when we’re not going there,” Thangamani said. “I’m really gonna miss it a lot. It was one of those things where it’s like, those are friends you can meet up with at H Mart and that no matter what happens, you can always rely on them to go on this short trip with you.”

Hmart For Stevenson and Thangamani, their traditions at H-Mart were priceless

SARAH THANGAMANI, SPECIAL

THE MESSENGER | 21

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA ALABAMA ARKANSAS University of American Auburn University Taylor Ho Bushra Keramane Isabella Levitt Joshua Paulsen

Arkansas

Ashlen Wilson

CALIFORNIA

Chapman Samford University University Virginia Shack Brennan Smith

University of Alabama Alana Mendicino Mia Rackley Sophia Rivers McKenna Schmidt Connor Simmons Morgan Woodard

University of Alabama at Birmingham Jungeun Lee Anoushka Misra Rahul Nakkina

22

Sarah Thangamani

University

Sriman Thangaraj

Howard University Sir Price II

FLORIDA

Flagler College

Ryan Coco University of California, Berkeley Florida State University Meghana Ramineni

COLORADO United States Air Force Academy Triston Robertson Kayleigh Yun-Thayer

CONNECTICUT Yale University Suraj Singareddy

Susie Browder

University of Central Florida Audrey Bolander

University of Florida Kelsie Young

University of Miami Matthew Sperry

FEATURES

GEORGIA

Augusta University Tori Esposito Xinyao Li Samad Shaikh

Emory University Aaron Wei

Georgia College and State University Abigail Ammons Jake Caylor Mallory Free Grayson Gregg Kate Holland Emily McCormick Megan Rosenberg

Georgia Institute of Technology Khushi Afre Kiran Balakrishnan Shrey Bhatia Aditya Bhattacharya Raka Chakraborty Hilary Chen Kristin Hsu Anoop Jalla Ananya Kumar Jason (Sanghyun) Lee Shreya Malpani Pooja Manekar Reetu Maran Berkan Ottlik Srivya Sabbella Sneha Sharma Alan Tao Ishita Vaish Elaine Wang

Georgia Southern University Payton Wright

Georgia State University Janice Adegbie Semira Adegbie Tess Alexander Zain Ali Eric Caceres Jackie Chen Sharon Emmanuel Matt Gerami Sreekar Gundala Marzooq Husain Eduard Karpoev Kamal Korrapati Laasya Lagu Lisha Ling Nayef Masum Anish Nair Nancy Nguyen Pearl Nguyen Gayatri Pandiri Noelle Reid Alahna Richards Ethan Sassine Supraja Satuluru Saumini Shah Maanav Shingala Srinidhi Thangaraj Marissa Turk Arnest Uddin Esther Waldman Fida Wehbe Trevor Xie Kevin Yin

Justine Boice Madison LeLoup Videll Lunnandy Devin Mauldin Janiyah Newberry Sejal Patel Christian Pumphrey Koen Su Keegan Thottam Akash Umashankar

Mercer University Jenna Barnes

Oglethorpe University Maddie Bernard

Savannah College of Art and Design Seung Joo Lee

University of Georgia

Noreen Ali Tejal Chadha Jamie Chong Gabriela Conde Borrés Anna Hu

Gwinnett Technical College Javonte Carn

Kennesaw State University Jenna Barnes Gabriel Batcho

THE MESSENGER | 23

Eshita Jain Arjun Kavungal Shubhangi Khanna Minwoo Kim Alex Lan Bettina Lin Ella Ma Rohan Matthew Sandhya Muthukumar Siya Patel Anvi Rao Kritika Rao Aria Sikal Angela Sun Krishi Tripuraneni Srisneha Vallabhajosyula Eleanor Virag Jennifer Xia Soniya Yalamanchili

University of North Georgia Saara Anam Joshua Baker Michael Bryan Collin Myers Andrew Tenbrink Brandon White

ILLINOIS

MASSACHUSETTS

Yasmin Shalim

Janice Nam William Shi

Boston University School of the Art Emily Kim Institute of Chicago Susie Pan Siya Kadam Harvard University University of Chicago University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Sreyaash Das Forrest Liu Shiv Trivedi

INDIANA

Purdue University Aniruddha Gokhale Shreya Senthil Luke Tucker

KENTUCKY University of Kentucky Zoey Schwartz

LOUISIANA University of New Orleans Cole Hartman

MARYLAND

University of Michigan Ramsai Kandepu Yena Kwon

MISSISSIPPI University of Mississippi

Brennen Henderson Lily Logan

NEW YORK New York University

Nicole Davison Pamela Esquivel Tyler Zhang

Parsons School of Design Julie Wu

Johns Hopkins University

Sarah Lawrence College

United States Naval Academy

Stony Brook University

Abhignya Panatula

Danny Kim

24

MICHIGAN

Danae Troupe

Pranav Ganesh

NORTH CAROLINA Wake Forest University Lily Brock

Duke University Richard Kim

OHIO

Ohio State University

Gabriella Valentino

Case Western Reserve University Michelle Lee Anuhya Kanchibhatla

PENNSYLVANIA Carnegie Mellon University Michelle Heo Sarah Yang

University of Pennsylvania Johnny Jeong

SOUTH CAROLINA University of South Carolina Mia Massie

TENNESSEE Tennessee State University Kayla Landry

University of Pittsburgh

University of Tennessee

Grace Zheng

Maha Zubairi

RHODE ISLAND

TEXAS

Christine Baek Chandler Stevenson

Somya Mittal Yimo Wang

Brown University

Rhode Island School of Design

Julia Ouyang (Brown-RISD)

VERMONT

Norwich University Emily Benelli

INTERNATIONAL Hogere Hotelschool Leeuwarden Emma Naarding

Institut Polytechnique des Sciences Avancées Hugo Huet

Maynooth University

Azareel Theo Olali

Rice University

Sophia University

University of Texas at Austin

ALTERNATE PATH

Sameer Kataria

Mana Ueda

Charlotte Crenshaw

THE MESSENGER | 25

CLASS OF 2021

12%

will receive need-based scholarships

49%

will receive merit-based scholarships

26

Humanities or Social Sciences

19%

STEM

54% Business

16% Undecided

3.5%

99% will attend a 4-year university

Arts

7.6% *This is based solely on information submitted to The Messenger by the Class of 2021. We cannot account for students who did not offer information.

end a t t a l l i 77% w niversity u public

23% will attend a private university THE MESSENGER | 27

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

I

To everyone

was 4 feet 5 inches tall when I stood on my tippy toes to direct the teleprompter towards our anchors for the Shakerag Sharks morning news. Unfortunately, I only got to 5 feet tall as I opened the heavy box of freshly printed Messengers. It’s been eight years in the making, and the more journalism experience I got somehow parallels the increase in short jokes.

From that ugly box, however, I opened more than just a stack of flimsy magazines. I opened Word Cookies!® marathons, peeling boiled eggs, standing awkwardly on the sidelines of every school event, PBIS Downey, a lack of ability to sit in a chair, and a lost Melissa. Obviously, I gained photojournalism experience and how to balance a scarce budget, but what I want to take away most from this class and this place are the people.

Journalism class reminds me of middle school health classes. We were so randomly put together and not your average group of friends, but for some reason we just fit. I sound a bit too sentimental for even my liking, but I do love you all even when you get on my last nerve. I will miss the countless jokes and the incredible work we have done in the past few years. I will not, however, miss the deadlines that never seemed to be met for some of us.

As I reflect on my years on staff, I also think about the people of Northview and Johns Creek in general. I’m not going very far away for the next chapter of my life, but it will still be a pretty big change. This year, especially, I have talked to and seen less people than usual, so it makes it harder to reminisce on how much we have done for each other. I even forgot some people who were in my elementary school as we talked about the Shakerag graduation walk. It’s kind of crazy to me that I will probably never see most of the people I have gone to school with for 18 years again. However, I will definitely be making many visits back to my favorite group of student journalists, so Mrs. Evans, please keep the lab doors unlocked.

To every staffer, every editor, every advisor that has walked through our seemingly everchanging classroom, I hope whatever you’re doing or whatever you’re going to do is exactly what you imagined yourself to be doing. I have no doubts that old staffers are reaching their dreams and living their best lives, and I know Mrs. Evans will continue to lead this amazing group to excellence in years to come. Of course, I still have one worry for next year: how much will Melissa scare the new staffers?

Jennifer Xia, Editor-in-Chief

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FEATURES

JENNIFER XIA, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

to the class of 2021 THE MESSENGER | 29

senior messages A farewell from the Northview community to the class of 2021

It has been an interesting journey. You were freshman my first year at Northview- seems like the end of an era so to speak. I look forward to hearing about all of your World changing accomplishments in the future. You have proved over and over during the last year and a half how resilient and adaptable you can be. You have overcome obstacles no one could have antici pated in August 2017 when you entered High School.

Congratulations on your graduation!

Blessings for your future endeavors and challenges. I am thankful that I had the opportunity to navigate this road with many of you!

Candy Alexander Class of 2021, teachers and staff - you are a picture of perseverance! I have nothing but the upmost admiration and confidence in you! Congratulations!

Julie Barnes Congratulations Class of 2021! You are HISTORIC in so MANY ways & I hope that your “Roaring ‘20s” will be as fun, exciting & progressive as the “OG” 1920s! Good luck, Ms. B.

Kalan Brownthwaite Y’all were some real funny ones....

Ethan Charles

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I hope everyone had a good senior year and I hope y’all do good in your future good luck to all the seniors

Be your biggest cheerleader. Believe in your ideas and creativity.

Mekai Matia

Javonte Carn Class of 2021, you did it! I am so incredibly proud of all of you. The road ahead will have plenty of challenges and chances, never forget your dreams, your passion or your resilience. Nothing can stop you now; you are capable of GREAT things.

“YOU have brains in your head. YOU have feet in your shoes. YOU can steer yourself any direction you choose.

YOU’re on your own and YOU know what you know. YOU are the one who’ll decide where to go...”

“YOU’re off to Great Places! Today is

Meredith Evans YOUR day! YOUR mountain is waiting.

So... get on YOUR way!!!!!!!!!”

- Dr. Seuss,Oh,the Places You’ll Go! Your resilience throughout these times, will prove to be an asset to your future and an attribute of your abilities!!! Con- Wishing you happiness……..

Mrs. McCall gratulations 2021!!!!

Camille Janess Congratulations on making it through a tough year. On a positive note,I hope this year teaches you how to persevere when times are tough and that there is always light at the end of the dark tunnel. Best whishes for your future.

Paul Platt The future is not for the faint-hearted.

You’re the bravest senior class who have dealt with one of the hardest school years in recent history. The future is all yours!

Tania Pope

Stephanie McCall

Congrats Grads! Some might refer to you as Pandemic Grads or was that last years’ graduating class and you are Pandemic Grads 2,the sequel? Hopefully that’s the last in this series. Although your senior year has been uniquely shadowed by a global phenomenon, you have made through it and are getting ready for the next phase of your life. After all, what doesn’t kill you makes your stronger. And all of us can use that extra dose of resilience. Wish you all the best in your next life chapter. Go Titans!

Shuchi Mittal

COLUMNS

JENNIFER XIA, EDIT OR-IN-CHIEF

JENNIFER XIA, EDIT OR-IN-CHIEF

-CHIEF

ITOR-IN IFER XIA, ED

JENN

Congratulations Seniors! Best wishes for a happy and fulfilling life. And to everyone who partici pated in International Night in the past: may you always dance and sing like nobody is watching!

Laurel Rogers

Congratulations to the Class of 2021!

Your future is bright and we are so proud of all of you!

Ashley Ulrich

You made it! Go forth. Do good.

Jonathan Waters

for more senior messages,scan the QR code below to view on The Messenger Online

It’s funny how day by day it seems like nothing changes, but when you look back everything is different. Make the most of each changing day!

Señora Wilson Thank you for an amazing, fun and sometimes frustrating year. It was not an ideal year with the school being half empty but we got through it together.

I will miss you all more than you know.

On my worst days I always knew when I walked on that field one of you would make me smile and forget all about it.

I’m so proud to have coached you all.

Good Luck with all your future endeavors!

Coach McCall

THE MESSENGER | 31

gallery Drum Major Aaron Wei waves pompoms at a home game JENNIFER XIA, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Senior boys show up on the first day decked out in jerseys ELEANOR VIRAG, MNEMOSYNE STAFF

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Seniors Jamie Chong and Chandler Stevenson are crowned Prom Queen and Prom King JENNIFER XIA, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

The stadium sign is lit to honor the Class of 2021 on Senior Movie Night JENNIFER XIA, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

COLUMNS

The student section throws powder in celebration ELEANOR VIRAG, MNEMOSYNE STAFF

JENNIFER XIA, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Class and Student Council presidents Tofunmi Abimbola and Janice Nam share a celebratory handshake

Seniors Hilary Chen and Elaine Wang grin to each other JENNIFER XIA, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

SUHANI MAHAJAN, STAFF WRITER Senior Benjamin Jin plays laser tag at the senior carnival

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gallery Senior Eric Caceres poses with his mother after being crowned Homecoming King JENNIFER XIA, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

ELEANOR VIRAG, MNEMOSYNE STAFF Senior girls pose in traditional white dresses in front of the senior sign

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Seniors slide down the inflatables at the senior carnival SUHANI MAHAJAN, STAFF WRITER

BRANDON TUNG, STAFF WRITER Quarterback Caden Dickey discusses the next play with Coach Thompson

COLUMNS

Senior Janice Nam walks with her father after being announced as Homecoming Queen

Seniors Emily Kim and Michelle Lee smile at Senior Movie Night JENNIFER XIA, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

JENNIFER XIA, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

SAMEEKSHA AGARWAL, STAFF WRITER Seniors Aayush Umesh and Danae Troupe pose as they enjoy the senior carnival

JENNIFER XIA, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Senior Kristin Hsu paints her parking space in the Senior Parking Lot

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