Issue 5 - March 2017

F RI DAY, M A RC H 3, 2017

The College Board exploits the education system

OPINIONS pages 4 & 5

Outdoor adventures

Bay Area bike culture

FEATURES pages 6 & 7

LIFESTYLES pages 8 & 9

Girls softball

SPORTS pages 10-11

COURTESY OF ALEX YUNERMAN

VOLUME 58 NO. 5

Lessons from blindness

FLIPSIDE page 12 JENN ZARATAN

The Prospector

CHSPROSPECTOR.COM

Student Newspaper of Cupertino High School

JENN ZARATAN

10100 FINCH AVENUE, CUPERTINO, CA 95014

Cupertino Actors Theatre wins Big New changes unveiled in CHS Annual School Plan PETER MARTIN opinions editor

COURTESY OF MYOUNG KANG

ETHAN QI news editor // copy editor

On Feb. 10-12, 2017, 18 members of Cupertino Actors Theatre (CAT) traveled to Folsom, Calif. to attend the Lenaea High School Theatre Festival. The annual festival is held “to advance the education of high school theatre arts students by offering opportunities to strengthen, promote and share artistic skills within an interactive and supportive educational environment.”

While there, the students attended workshops and participated in different competitions including monologues, duo scenes, musical theatre, one-acts and costume and set design. They had the unique opportunity of working with professionals in their field.

Said senior and Respondent’s Choice Award winner Roei Cohen, “It was a super great learning experience. After we competed, award or not, we were all super happy with what ended up happening with the feedback we got. The

improvement we saw in just 15 minutes of the respondent working with us was incredible.”

For many competitors, the learning experience was like no other. The judges were able to offer criticism specific to competitors and their fields of performance.

“I think a lot of us definitely learned how to become more honest actors because of it. It’s about coming from a place of humanity over a character. A lot of the times, people get caught up in playing some archetype over playing just a person. A lot of the feedback we got this time was catered towards just being more three-dimensional, which I think was really beneficial for all of us,” said senior and Gold Award honoree Amruta Talwalkar.

In addition to accepting feedback tailored to individual students, CAT was also able to receive valuable advice on broader functionings of the organization.

Said program director Arcadia Conrad, “I think that we understood this year some working methods which will al-

The 2016-2017 Cupertino High School Annual School Plan outlines the institution’s objectives and the programs designed to meet them.

The plan combines goals set by oversight organizations, the Fremont Union High School District (FUHSD) and CHS itself.

The Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) set specific targets with the school during the 2014-2015 school year for review over a six-year period. Further aims are formulated by the Local Control Accountability Plan (LCAP) and FUHSD. These objectives were then integrated with goals created by the CHS staff.

Said Principal Kami Tomberlain, “The staff was divided into focus groups. Each of us had a section of the last report that we were focused on ... There was a group on curriculum; there was a group on student climate life. There were different angles that different staff members took on the issues, and we built our goals and our action items from there.”

The report is divided into four sections with distinct topics.

Goals focus on academic performance, varied and practical curriculum and communication with the school community. The third objective in the report discusses student welfare, summarized by the statement: “every student will feel safe, cared about and both academically and socially engaged in school.”

In the 2014 student survey, only 57% of students felt that they had a trusted adult on campus. Said Tomberlain, “Our staff was really concerned about that. How are we going to communicate to kids successfully so that they understand that we’re here for them?

It is a matter of disconnect. The teacher knows they care, but the way that they are communicating that care is not something that the student values or understands.”

The 2016-2017 student survey showed an increase to 67% of students, attributed to efforts to “claim” the students lacking a “trusted adult” by coaching the staff on strategies to build stronger

Lenaea Festival, continued on page 3

CHS changes, continued on page 3

C u p er t i no D ha dk an per f or ms a t Lyn b r o o k S i l si l ay JUSTINE QIU photo assistant

On Feb. 11, Lynbrook High School held its annual Silsilay performance. Lights decorated the doorways, and decorations of all kinds added life to the colorful outfits worn by the dancers.

Dhadkan teams from a variety of schools came together on this day to perform their originallychoreographed pieces and to celebrate their culture.

Of course, Tino Dhadkan, CHS’ Bollywood team, was not about to miss the chance to perform and to represent their school. The team, formed last year under the Tino Indian Cultural Appreciation Association, incorporates American hip hop, Indian Classical and Bhangra dance styles into their Bollywood performances. This year, the group has been invited to perform at around five different shows, all of which raise money for nonprofit organizations, including Riyaaz, a show that they themselves are hosting in order to support the India Literacy Project. The team sometimes spends up to 10 hours a week together hosting auditions, making choreography, buying costumes and mixing their music. The team consistently welcomes new members.

“This year I finally got the chance to try out for the Bollywood team — and it seriously made junior year more bearable,” said junior Deepali Mittal. “Everyone on the team is extremely kind and they have amazing personalities that make you want to talk to them a lot.”

The show consisted of multiple dance team performances strung together with a storyline dialogue from the hosts. Following a breathtaking performance from Aandhii, a team of dancers from multiple schools, CHS Dhadkan took the stage. Dressed in gold sequins and red skirts, or red bowties and white shirts, Tino’s very own dancers conquered the audience with an exciting seven-minute performance, which consisted of a girls dance, a boy’s dance and dances involving the entire team. Every move performed served a catalyst for loud cheering from the audience, Silsilay Performance, continued on page 3

ALL PHOTOS BY JUSTINE QIU

TINO DHADKAN | In the style of Bollywood, Tino Dhadkan dancers end their show in a spectacular fashion, celebrating their Indian culture and heritage

News The Prospector

S TA F F 2016-2017

The Prospector

March 3, 2017

Enrolling in Middle College — a reflection CAROLINE GEE flipside assistant

Cupertino High School Established 1958 Vol LVIII, No. 5 | 2017 editors-in-chief melissa silva meilinda sun news editor ethan qi opinions editor peter martin features editor aishwarya laddha lifestyles editor allison lo sports editor erin song flip side editor amy zeng copy editors caroline gee sudarshan kannan ethan qi saagar sanghavi photo editors catherine seok jenn zaratan online editors lily rosen marvin josephine robinson business manager amy zeng

Students who feel constricted by the structured curriculum of high school courses may consider applying to the De Anza Middle College program to explore their diverse interests. Middle college presents the opportunity for high school juniors to take classes on the De Anza community college campus while also completing their high school course requirements.

“Socially, it’s a very friendly environment, like having a lot of cousins,” middle college junior Andrew Maxwell said. “The teachers tell us to use their first names. On the down side, you do have to leave existing friends to get in.”

Maxwell acknowledged the vague division between the high school and college students on the De Anza campus.

“The relationship with the rest of De Anza [students] outside the [middle college] program is odd,” Maxwell said.

“I don’t know anyone who’s formed close friendships with any of the older college students. It’s not awkward; it’s just not as close an environment as high school outside the program.”

While middle college classes have approximately the same difficulty level as high school classes, the De Anza professors have more opportunities to form personal connections with their students.

Said Maxwell, “The teachers are more accessible and closer because you get them for three hours instead of one period per day, and they expect more out of you but are also more understanding.”

On the other hand, middle college professors place less emphasis on appealing to students’ interests and more on establishing academic independence.

“Because it’s college, [the professors] don’t have to make group proj-

NEWS BRIEFS

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ects or fun activities for the students’ sakes,” middle college junior Elizabeth Kim said. “You could take a great, knowledgeable professor and sleep during his or her two-hour long, dry lecture.”

The newfound freedom that middle college students are allotted can backfire in some cases; as most classes give no daily homework but base the majority of the class grade on tests, students often struggle to effectively manage their workload.

Said middle college junior Jasper Edbrooke, “This [system] is nice because it gets rid of the ‘busy work’ that often bogs down high school students, but [it] often leads to procrastination and late nights of studying on the night before the test.”

Middle college students must also adjust to their schedules in order to attend all their classes.

Said Maxwell, “It’s not like high school where the classes are neatly clumped together in the middle of your day.”

Kim is one such student who must work around unfavorable hours; due to a calculus course in the morning and a physics lab late at night, her schedule is sometimes thinly spread out throughout the day.

Said Kim, “[On] Thursdays, I can end up at De Anza from 9 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., and I subsist on snacks until I can eat at 11 p.m.”

While the schedules can be a nuisance, the ability to practice independence and take a wide variety of college classes makes the middle college experience worthwhile to many students.

“Joining the middle college program was one of the best decisions I have made,” Edbrooke said. “Academically it gives me a strong transcript with many college credits before leaving high school.”

Apple has officially overtaken Samsung as the world’s largest smartphone provider. As of Feb. 16, Apple holds 17.9 percent of the smartphone market, compared to Samsung’s 17.8 percent.

The last time Apple was ahead of Samsung in smartphone sales was in 2014, when the release of the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus boosted the company’s sales.

The 59th annual Grammy Awards took place on Feb. 12. Hosted by James Corden, the show featured performances by Beyoncé, Adele, Bruno Mars, Alicia Keys and many more. Following the event some criticized the Grammys for “white-washing” the awards, citing Beyoncé’s “Lemonade” losing the title of “Album of the Year” to Adele’s “25.”

On Feb. 13, President Donald Trump’s National Security Advisor Michael Flynn, resigned following the discovery that he had discussed economic sanctions with the Russian Ambassador to the United States. General Keith Kellogg was named acting National Security Advisor until the President finds an adequate replacement.

On Feb. 14, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) sent 104 satellites into the sky aboard the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle. This launch broke the previous world record of 37 satellites, set by Russia in 2014. The launch featured India’s Cartosat-2 Earth observation satellite as well as 88 Triple-CubeSat miniature satellites.

Violent protests broke out around the outskirts of Paris and other major cities following reports of a police officer raping a 22-year-old AfricanAmerican man. Officers were sent to control the riots after protesters began attacking officers and looting stores. Following a hospital visit with the victim, French President François Hollande pleaded for the violence to end.

Following months of heavy rainfall, 53 percent of California is “officially out of drought” for the first time in four years. While parts of Los Angeles and San Bernardino Counties are still reporting “severe” drought, the combination of incoming rain and melting of the Sierra Nevada snowpack continue combat the drought.

news assistants

gene kim anshul rajwanshi

opinions assistants

esha radhakrishnan leo rassieur

features assistants

edward hsu santosh muralidaran

lifestyles assistants

nico chilla xinyi zhang

sports assistants

neerali shah christina shao

flip side assistant

elena chang

Vietnam War memorial to be restored and relocated

online assistants

michelle ma utkarsh tandon

AMY ZENG

photo crew

justine qiu

XINYI ZHANG

flipside editor // business manager lifestyles assistant

adviser ann peck Editorial Policy “The Prospector” is an open forum of expression for student editors to inform and educate their readers. It will not be reviewed by or restrained by school officials prior to publication or distribution. Advisors may and should coach and discuss content during the writing process.

The staff of “The Prospector” seeks to recognize individuals, events and ideas and bring news to the Cupertino community in an accurate, professional and unbiased manner. “The Prospector” will not avoid publishing a story solely on the basis of possible dissent or controversy.

If you believe an error has been made or wish to have your opinion expressed in “The Prospector,” please contact us via mail or email. Letters sent become the sole property of “The Prospector” and can be edited for length, clarity or accuracy.

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Contact Us The Prospector 10100 Finch Avenue Cupertino, CA 95014 prospector.chs@gmail.com

JENN ZARATAN

Cupertino High School’s Vietnam War Memorial lay on a section of elevated ground located in front of the 600s wing. It featured two white tablets engraved with the names of CHS alumni who have served and perished during or after the war. However, as designs for the new science complex did not account for the integration of the memorial, the memorial had to be dismantled and the two monuments were relocated to a barren patch of land behind the ASB office. Wes Morse, history teacher, ASB adviser and CHS alumnus, is currently working with the school and district administrations to restore the memorial to its former state, a goal he hopes to see complete by mid-April.

Established in 1970, the Vietnam War Memorial commemorates 12 CHS alumni who served the United States in the Vietnam War, 11 of whom died on the battlefield. The names of these students are engraved on the two tablets along with their years of graduation. It stands as a lasting tribute to

COMPILED BY LILY MARVIN

CHS’ involvement in a significant part of this nation’s history.

Said Morse, “We’ve got to do it right and make it look good. It’s a good reminder of our sacrifice and is necessary to respect our elders, those who were willing to go to war; those who were willing to stand up for our country.”

Morse has further plans to revamp the new site of the Vietnam War Memorial and to make it more visually appealing than it was in its previous location in the 600s wing. He envisions a fenced enclosure with various forms of vegetation, colored mulch and a small gate. Another notable change to the site will be the placement of rock pavers etched with the words “faith,” “courage” and “loyalty” leading up to the memorial. Although the district office has already placed an order for the new tree, a Chinese pistache, Morse is uncertain about the exact date of completion.

Said Morse, “We should complete the planting and footpath by spring break. Without these things in place, we cannot begin additional work.”

Additional work, in this case, means appending new features to the memorial. Morse wants to erect a display board near the monument with detailed information about those who served and a small gazebo to provide visitors with shade during the sunnier seasons.

Many students are supportive of the memorial’s renovation.

Said junior Pooja Rao, “I think it’s good that they’re honoring the soldiers by doing that. [The memorial] deserves more recognition, which can be attained by moving it to the front of the school and making it nicer.”

The Vietnam War Memorial has been part of Cupertino High School for more than 40 years.

Cicero's Pizza Through their comOPEN 7 DAYS! bined efforts, Morse and the rest of the 6138 Bollinger Road staff hope to preserve San Jose, California 95129 (At Miller next to Safeway) and extend the legacy Tel: (408) 777-0690 of Cupertino’s VietFax: (408) 777-0698 nam soldiers to newer "The Pizza with the Secret"® www.cicerospizza.com generations.

March 3, 2017

Lenaea Festival

News

The Prospector

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continued from page 1

CHS changes

low us to get better results overall; that we need to give the competition the space and time it deserves, have rigorous rehearsal schedules for everyone who’s competing and pick students to represent us that can not only compete at the high level expected of them but can also can effectively handle the feedback session.

There, it’s all about how your personality interacts with someone who is an artistic professional you’ve never met before.”

With tough competition hailing from over 60 schools, many of which are art schools, CAT performed exceptionally well, earning three best-in-class Gold Awards. Among the other awards obtained were Silver, Actor, Respondent’s Choice, Finalist and Outstanding Costume Design.

Said Conrad, “I am so proud of my students this year. We really focused and stayed in our lane in rehearsing and gave the rehearsals the integrity that we needed. We were able to focus on doing the best we could and it really paid off. Getting a gold in all three of those coveted categories and competing against some of the best schools in the nation was absolutely huge for us.”

relationships with students.

Another area of concern was student workload. “An area where we were really embarrassed was that there was a big percentage of kids who were spending more than four hours a night doing school-assigned homework.”

Tomberlain said. “Last year it was still a fifth of the school, and now it’s down to 12 percent.”

Tomberlain believes that working with teachers to introduce rigorous and engaging classroom material to students without assigning excessive homework explains the decline.

Said Tomberlain “Have we accomplished everything on our list? No, but I think we’re definitely making progress.”

The plan still requires approval by the FUHSD Board of Trustees, after which it will be posted on the Cupertino High School website.

and the dancers themselves reciprocated the enthusiasm.

Said junior Dhadkan officer Isha Shah, “I felt really hyped as we put on our costumes and makeup, and that led me to use all my energy while dancing on stage, leaving me exhausted but smiling and satisfied afterwards.”

The team agrees that the Silsilay performance brought them closer.

“For me, this performance was especially stressful, because the other officers and I spent many hours everyday perfecting the dance,” said Shah. “All of our effort definitely paid off on stage.”

Tino Dhadkan looks forward to a successful season this year, and performances such as Silsilay keep them determined to continue performing as a team.

“I’ve gotten so close to the team because they are so welcoming”, said Mittal. “Every time we meet for practice, I always have a new story to tell.”

lar computers comprise of billions of tiny transistors 500 times smaller than a red blood cell, which control the flow of electrons to make specific decisions. Due to their atomic size, a problem begins to surface when the quantum unpredictability of electrons prevents accurate control of flow. Regular computing simply cannot make sense of the quantum realm where regular physical concepts no longer apply (Heisenberg Uncertainty). This is why quantum computing introduces qubits that are always changing between the value zero or one compared to regular bits that have a defined value. This exponentially speeds up decision making since qubits allow for exponentially greater combinations due to their ever-changing values in the quantum realm.

Having incredibly fast computers can be good and bad at the same time. In research, quantum computers could be used to read datasets much faster than is currently done through binary search methods. This would be huge in the field of computer science where large datasets take days to read and interact with.

However, downsides exist as well, with hacking being made significantly easier. Normal computers would take years of trial and error to guess secret keys, whereas quantum computing would

make the task a breeze.

Google’s recent game-changing work with quantum computing to model a hydrogen molecule gives insight into the future projects that will be developed by the tech giants around us. By understanding the inherent chemical reactions involved in fields like medicine and agriculture, research like this could provide massive gains in optimizing efficiency. This, therefore, introduces competition between companies like Microsoft, Google and Intel, who want to be first to monopolize the new market. Their ambitious goals involving solar panels, batteries and materials further propel the field of research due to competition facilitating rapid advancements.

Although an incredibly exciting field, quantum computing is unlikely to directly affect consumers any time soon. The direct impact will probably come in the field of scientific research for modeling molecules and improving medicine. But even then, right now we do not know if quantum computers will be simply a specialized tool for lab-related studies or a big revolution for humanity leading to entirely new lifestyles. Either way, quantum computing is likely to have a positive impact on society.

Quantum computing tech breaks scientific barriers UTKARSH TANDON online assistant

Since it was first proposed by physicist Yuri Manin in 1980, quantum computing has been a hot topic for researchers all around the world. However, only in the past few years has theory been converted into actual machines that perform quantum-level tasks. And not until July 2016 did real scientific application actually arise from quantum computing; Google achieved this incredible feat when they accurately simulated a hydrogen molecule.

What quantum computing really is becomes a tough concept to explain due to its intricate complexities. However, during a process called supercomputing, quantum computers are exponentially faster than their regular counterparts. This is all due to the differences in their core technological makeups. Regu-

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Silsilay performance continued from page 1

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Opinions

March 3, 2017

LeaderShip is Overrated in Silicon Valley Culture SAAGAR SANGHAVI copy editor

“Don’t just join a startup. Create a new startup!” The idea of innovating, creating something new and being a pioneer in a new field has recently emerged as a dominant ideal in the Silicon Valley.

However, the idea of being a leader by creating something new often overlooks the fact that in order to take off, a successful product or business venture requires dedication and hard work from numerous individuals. Too often, startups and small businesses give experience to the people behind them but lack the commitment and longevity to be successful.

The beautiful part of the Silicon Valley culture is that it serves as an incubator for ideas — entrepreneurs are unafraid to take risks, and the relatively flat management structures, characteristic of most technol- o g y companies makes enterprises easily adaptable to a quickly changing world. In Silicon Valley, it is even considered a “badge of honor” to have led a failed tech startup; though it might seem like an individual or group has wasted time and effort, the ideas brought to the table and lessons learned along the way are highly valued. At the same time, this “go big or go home” mindset can lead some to create startups with little planning or vision.

Businesses exist to grow and make a profit. In the competitive environment of the Silicon Valley, this spurs the innovation and technological advancements that improve society. However, so many companies are so focused on short-term achievements and getting acquired that they lack the vision for growth in the future.

Everyone wants to be a leader. In the Silicon Valley, many individuals would rather be entrepreneurs than work for a

manager in a well-established business. This can often undermine the hard work and dedication it takes at all levels to be successful. What truly matters is not what position a person holds, but what he or she accomplishes in that position. Hard work and dedication are what drives a company to success, and creating a startup solely for the purpose of gaining leadership experience defeats the purpose.

Leadership exists at all levels. Even someone who may be a new recruit at a company and at the bottom of the hierarchy can demonstrate leadership i n their roles. However, most tech workers in the Silicon Valley fail to recognize this and associate leadership solely with a management position. This often leads to uncomfortable tensions between workers and their colleagues.

A leader is someone who can create a group vision and unite others under a common goal. Often, a leader may emerge from the crowd as someone who is likeable or inspires others, usually through leading by example.

This directly contrasts with what many people perceive as a leader — a “driver” who knows how to delegate tasks to pursue an agenda.

While many believe that leaders make decisions, the true power lies with those who work under them. Respect is earned by sacrificies made for the group and servant leadership. The idea of being a boss and giving orders which are executed upon, though valuable in some businesses, is somewhat archaic in the technology industry.

Leadership in the Silicon Valley is overrated.

The idea of starting something and being at the top can tend to overlook the hard work and dedication it takes to earn success, and companies in the Silicon Valley need less “leadership” in the conventional sense and more meaningful opportunities for employees on all positions on the corporate ladder.

E-waste dumping: Silicon Valley’s dirty secret

The United States should take responsibility for e-waste dumping in vulnerable countries LEO RASSIEUR opinions assistant

Living in Silicon Valley, we take immense pride in our innovation and drive to improve the world around us. Not a single person born here escapes the influence of tech giants like Apple or Google — companies which undoubtedly have a tremendous impact on the global economy. Many of these companies are our parents’ employers. So, in a sense, they are the ones ultimately responsible for putting dinner on the table.

Unfortunately, every bit of wealth we gain from their existence comes at a cost; not for us, but for nations across the Earth with weak or incompetent governments that are unable to stop the damage. Our fingers touch tablets, smartphones and laptops for just a few years at best before the devices are shipped off to China, India, the Philippines or West Africa as electronic waste, or e-waste. While the Environmental Protection Agency reports that 3.14 million tons of e-waste were produced domestically in 2013 alone, the United Nations Environment Programme estimates that the amount of global e-waste recycled by government-backed agencies is only 16 percent. American corporations are wholeheartedly responsible for the global e-waste black market, but the responsibility of enforcing the regulations necessary to counter it falls to the shoulders of the federal government.

A significant barrier to eliminating the ewaste black market is that each participant seems to believe in its benefits.

Tech manufacturers sidestep a potential concern, recycling centers

profit from selling to e-waste importers overseas, importers can scrounge for valuable component pieces and those living near the final dumping sites hope to discover shiny copper wires amidst the debris. Many impoverished families in developing countries sell this waste to put food on the table.

The problem is, dump sites pollute nearby water supplies, and locals often burn e-waste to recover valuable metals, exposing themselves to durable toxins like dioxins and furans. As a result, entire communities deteriorate; the World Health Organization’s list of dioxins’ effects on humans includes increased cancer risk, immune system impairment and skin lesions. Moreover, the inexorable masses of e-waste cripple local economies, preventing business development in the area by occupying previously usable land. This further exacerbates the issue of those nearby digging through the hazardous waste to make a living.

Despite the immediate threat e-waste poses to humanity, the United States, unlike other nations, has not taken action accordingly. The foremost international law regarding e-waste dumping is the U.N.’s Basel Convention, adopted in 1989 to prevent the trade of dangerous e-waste. However, of the convention’s more than 180 signatories, the United States is not one of them: Congress never ratified it. Even now, corporate influence on Congress from tech giants and so-called e-waste recycling centers will likely perpetuate America’s anachronistic stance on the issue. The challenge, then, is to shift the solution from being an economic burden to a potential boon — and the answer lies in replacing the e-waste black market with one that has government oversight.

The federal government must first put a firm stop to the export of e-waste by American recycling companies. This requires ratifying the Basel Convention or passing legislation prohibiting e-waste export, but more importantly, enforcement of this position throughout the country. Although an outright moratorium seems infeasible at the moment, a more workable solution is a tax on e-waste export. Then, recyclers will be economically incentivized not to ship their waste off to a developing nation; rather, they might invest in means to repurpose it domestically. Not only would this investment create new jobs, but it would also reduce the need for destructive extraction of the metals necessary for manufacturing Silicon Valley’s technology. Otherwise, recycling corporations’ claims to being “environmentally friendly” will remain what they are now: deceptions.

Entrepreneurs might recognize the demand for e-waste repurposing centers, creating an industry with immense growth potential as the world continues to crave Silicon Valley’s technology. For now, it is clear that a solution is desperately needed for the vulnerable populations impacted by e-waste dumping, those we seldom consider as we wield the devices that will one day poison them.

March 3, 2017

The Prospector

Opinions

5

Not so non-profit

How the College Board exploits the education system

costs. College Board follows none of these.

According to the Washington Post, the Chief Executive Officer of the College Board made $690,854 in 2013, while the CEO of the Educational Testing Service makes $1,307,314. Meanwhile the average compensation for the CEO of a nonprofit with a budget more than $50 million is $317,024. To put this amount in context, the CEO of the UNICEF, one of the largest nonprofits in the world and an intergovernmental organization with a tangible, daily and worldwide impact, makes $521,820, a whole $100,000 less than the man running College Board. While some of these CEO’s may claim incredible philanthropic and charitable work, the College Board can not even claim this moral salvation.

Furthermore, a nonprofit should try to keep a small profit margin to make sure each dollar given is used to its maximum potential. The average profit margin for large non profits is 2.7 percent.

College Board has a profit margin of 8.6 percent, 317 percent higher than the average. So not only does College Board pay obscene levels of money to its executives, it takes that money from making a profit of our education. While it may seem fine for an executive to take in large amounts of money, and it is, the question comes from where does that money come and how is it used. Through my research I have found no evidence of any large term project for the College Board that requires such a profit margin. The College Board itself has said that its reason for its profit is so that it can holdover its SAT program because of competition with the ACT. The reason College Board charges so much money is so it can compete for students to take its tests. This is a mockery of how education should work. Education is a policy framework, not a business, and the College Board should be ashamed of how it has exploited the education system for a 9 percent profit.

In the end this boils down to one argument. The College Board is not a nonprofit and not a charitable organization. It is a company shirking its social and professional responsibility by disguising itself as something it is not. While the idea of private investment and development in education is not problematic, the gross incompetence and profit-driven motive of the College Board is. Corporations work with the government to equalize the playing field for students nationwide. College Board has been a hinderance in the path to a solution.

ANSHUL RAJWANSHI news assistant

At one point or another, the specter of College Board has fallen on every high school student.

Either through Advanced Placement Tests, SATs, Subject SATs or CSS Profiles we have all paid our dues to the bogeyman, ever present and ever haunting. As a society we have accepted College Board as a pillar of American education, but rarely do we ponder what role this shadow organization should play in our never-ending stress. And while the College Board has no problem with releasing educational standards, we must question whether it is now the time to educate College Board about moral standards.

College Board claims the status as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. That means that it does not have to pay any taxes whatsoever to the federal government — a major money saver. The Internal Revenue Service even writes that 501(c)(3)s are commonly referred to as charitable organizations. College Board, however, is not a charitable organization. Tax breaks are given to groups that actively work in the public interest, helping those who cannot help themselves.

If anything, College Board has hampered the work of these organizations. Every income inequality debate leads to a discussion on AP tests and test preparation, how these exams, used to determine a student’s college acceptance, exclusively support those of a higher income level. According to a study by Claudia Buchmann of Ohio State University it was concluded that private test prep classes are the most effective way to prepare for the test and are used to increase the advantage of already wealthy students. The SAT does not test a student’s intelligence or capacity for analytical thinking. A study by the National Association for College Admission Counseling shows evidence suggesting that students have effectively no difference in performance if they submit SAT scores or not. The service that College Board provides is not only destructive but also unnecessary.

Generally a nonprofit is expected to maximize it helping potential as much as possible. That could mean lower salaries for employees, decreased profit margins and cheap access to goods. By definition, a nonprofit does not make a profit and uses the money donated or earned for overhead

$690,854

The salary of the Chief Executive Officer of the College Board in 2013, as reported by the Washington Post.

Passage 1, adapted from the IRS: (1) “The organization must not be organized or operated for the benefit of private (2) interests, and no part of a section 501(c)(3) organization’s net earnings may (3) inure to the benefit of any private shareholder or individual.”

Question 1. As used in line 1, “benefit” most nearly means (A) personal gain (B) outragous salaries (C) morally bankrupt (D) tax evasion

SUMMER PROGRAMS: ARE THEY really WORTH THE COST? MICHELLE MA online assistant

For many high school students, getting into a prestigious university is a top priority. What better opportunity than spending the summer at an Ivy League university — attending classes on Brown’s campus, staying in the Stanford dorms and eating in Yale’s dining halls.

Every summer, some of the best students in the world flock to these eminent universities with a variety of goals in mind. A couple of weeks or months away from home grants teenagers the chance to mature, both intellectually and personally. Living on campus offers a taste of college life, and the opportunity to explore one’s interests in a safe, encouraging environment. But what is unique about these programs is that because they are so illustrious, they, in fact, bring together some of the brightest minds in the world — renowned professors, professionals, college students and high-school students alike. Many who have attended programs at top universities claim that a summer spent at an Ivy is an eye-opening experience like no other.

As stated on its website, the Stanford Pre-Collegiate Summer Institutes “invite students from around the world to discover, study, and explore in small classes with instructors who are passionate about teaching and experts in their fields.” However, this comes at the steep price of $6,500

for three weeks, or over $300 a day. And those who spend up to hundreds of dollars applying to a pre-college program and up to tens of thousands of dollars attending it merely in hopes of gaining a competitive edge in the college admissions process may want to think again.

Said Dean of Admissions at Brown University, Jim Miller, “We don’t know who’s been to our summer school. Some tell us. Some don’t.” He says that the university does not favor those who have had the resources to attend their summer courses.

Additionally, according to Beth Heaton, private counselor and former admissions officer at the University of Pennsylvania, universities do not place much value on summer programs. In other words, parents can rest assured knowing that it is not necessary to stretch themselves financially to pay for elite programs that may only marginally (if at all) boost a student’s chances of gaining admission to the Ivy League of their choice.

It is imperative that students understand what they intend to procure from their summers.

After all, summer is a rare time of the year when students are granted a recess from homework, tests and school to pursue their interests — academic and otherwise — as well as further develop their talents.

A community college course could offer the same academic knowledge that, say, Summer at Brown offers, at a much lower price. A camping trip allows students to form friendships and spend time away from home; a summer job can teach valuable money management skills and provide high-schoolers with a taste of the “real world.”

Students who have the means to attend an elite program, recognize what they realistically desire to gain from it and are truly interested in the subjects they will study there should, by all means, have the time of their lives at the summer program of their choice. However, it is essential to consider other, more affordable options that may yield more value than a three-week quickie at Harvard.

Yes, these prestigious summer programs do deliver value. But there are also other ways to spend our dog days that could be less expensive and more meaningful. You could start that online shop that you have always been dreaming of, take a class at a community college or work at a local eatery. So, this summer, instead of shelling out thousands on a three-week summer program, why not put that money in your actual college fund? Remember, every experience is ultimately what each of us makes of it.

Features

6

kayshav prakash

cross-country skiier

CATHERINE SEOK

“It’s nice because, unlike running, it’s usually cold when you [ski]. And it feels really good, because . . . it’s . . . like you’re gliding on the snow.”

MELISSA SILVA editor-in-chief

For about five years, junior Kayshav Prakash participated in a sport unfamiliar to most Bay Area residents — cross country skiing. While he lived in Massachusetts, Prakash spent his winters practicing and competing. Having started downhill skiing in first grade, Prakash found his true passion in cross country skiing with the help of some friends in the Eastern Massachusetts Skiing League.

Cross country skiing is a form of skiing in which the athlete employs technique and endurance to cross large terrains. There are two skiing styles, classic style and skate-style skiing.

Said Prakash, “Classic style is when there’s grooves in the snow that they make for you; it’s more of a walking motion on your skiis, with gliding. And then there’s the skate-style skiing, which is more like skiing, where you go faster.”

During seventh and eighth grade, Prakash competed in meets around the Northeast. Races ranged from half a kilometer to 15 kilometers and were often held at a variety of locations, such as golf courses which had been adapted. Prakash once won a bronze medal at the Eastern Mass Bill Koch Ski festival.

“That [race] was fun. That was the first time I won something. I did not know how well I did, in the moment, because you can’t. There’s a hundred people going at staggered paces, so I had no idea how well I was doing. So I finished, and then [I had] to wait until the end of the whole festival, when they print out a list of the winners, and I won a bronze,” Prakash reminisced.

To Prakash, however, competitions were not as enjoyable as skiing on his own.

Said Prakash, “The competitions were a lot of waitin; a lot of standing around ... [They were] really stressful because there’s people trying to pass you. Ultimately, cross country skiing is almost a solitary activity, so I think I like skiing for myself better than competing.”

The skier’s passion for his sport is apparent.

“It’s nice because, unlike running, it’s usu-

A couple times a month, senior Steven Baldonado wakes up as early as 3:30 a.m. to go fishing with his father and brother.

With fishing gear tucked away in the trunk and warm breakfast sandwiches in hand, the three of them head to Campbell Percolation Pond, a fishing site near their house. There the Baldonados are greeted by other fishers and their families, waiting patiently for a catch as the sun rises above them in the chilly air.

To Baldonado, an unusually early wake-up time is no strange part of his weekend plans. Baldonado’s father first brought him fishing when he was seven years old, and he has been hooked ever since. His favorite fishing sites include Campbell Percolation Pond and Shadow Cliff Reservoir.

On certain weekends and over the summer, Baldonado and his family arrive at the fishing grounds in the morning hours, which is when fish are most likely to bite. Although the most enjoyable part about fishing is the activity itself, preparing for his fishing trip is the most exhausting process. The Baldonado family packs their car with fishing gear such as chairs, tackle boxes, blankets and fishing poles, to name a few.

Fishing is not just an individual experience, Baldonado says, but one that requires the effort and cooperation of many. The Baldonados’ approach to catching fish is likened to that of an assembly line.

Said Baldonado, “One person [reels] in the fish. [The] next person has the net, and the last person [makes] sure the fish doesn’t get tangled with other lines.”

Without his father and brother, Baldonado explains, the assembly line falls apart, and it becomes difficult to catch fish.

Baldonado’s fishing trips, however, do not always go without a hitch.

“Early in the morning my brother and I were on the dock

March 3, 2017

N O I T A E

ally cold when you [ski]. And it feels really good, because you go really fast, and it’s a good feeling. It feels like you’re gliding on the snow, and it’s just a good feeling,” Prakash said.

An obstacle Prakash encountered was being one of the few racial minority skiers.

Participating in this Eastern European-dominated sport presented him with an interesting perspective.

“A lot of people, when I told them that I cross country skied, wouldn’t believe me. I did get a couple racist comments from people on the team.”

Prakash has many memories from his cross country skiing days. He shared one of his favorite ones.

“One time, it was the middle of January. It was raining really hard, which sounds like it sucks, and it usually does, but we were going insane speeds in the snow. Usually with cross country skiing, it’s more like running, that speed, but we were going insanely fast downhill, and we were soaked by the end, and it was kind of a terrible experience in that at the end we were soaking and cold, but it was super fun.”

When Prakash moved to California in eighth grade, he had to adjust to his new lifestyle. Not only does Prakash miss his sport, but he also misses the winter season. “[Skiing] was the thing I did in the winter, and I knew it wouldn’t be feasible. I think I missed winter in general, and being around snow. Now, there’s none of that,” Prakash said.

Nowadays, Prakash enjoys going to Yosemite to cross country ski. Although skiing may not be as feasible in the Bay Area, he encourages others to try the sport.

“Hopefully you live in a place where you can [ski]. But I would say ‘go for it,’” Prakash said. “[Skiing is] really approachable for a lot of people.

The technique involved in racing is kind of tedious, but that’s not necessary to enjoy cross country skiing, and it’s a sport you can do casually. If you want to do it at the competitive level, know it’ll be a lot of technique and a lot of training, but there’s also a lot of ways to enjoy it without going to that level.”

R C E R

at Shadow Cliff Reservoir and I was reeling in an average-sized fish,” Baldonado recalled. “Out of nowhere, a gigantic largemouth bass swallowed my entire fish whole. It must have been an 11 to 15 pound fish. I had a hard fight [with it] for ten minutes before it snapped my line.”

Nevertheless, Baldonado feels special when he talks about fishing to his friends and classmates, because fishing is a rare hobby among Tino students. Throughout his high school career, Baldonado has always used fishing as a go-to for his presentations. In his Voices of Modern Culture class, for instance, Baldonado’s 30-second film project illustrated the life of a fisherman.

“No one else fishes at school, so it stands out to people who only do, for example, after-school sports,” EDWARD HSU Baldonado said.

In all of his years of fishing with features assistant his family, Baldonado has learned his favorite outdoor pastime is not all about catching the fish. Much like other activities, the shared bond that he has with those who fish with him has brought them closer together. “[Fishing] is really about who you are with,” Baldonado said. “It’s always nice knowing you have the company of others around you.

steven baldonado fisherman

“[Fishing] is really about who you are with. It’s always nice knowing you have the company of others around you.”

JENN ZARATAN

Without a doubt, fishing is a hobby that requires an immense amount of time and dedication. Looking back, Baldonado realizes the number of years it took for him to reach level of skill and dexterity that he possesses today.

“When you go fishing, don’t expect to catch everything on the first try,” Baldonado advised. “Know that you will get better eventually and that [fishing] takes time.”

AL PURS U IT se-

er rock

Features

The Prospector

March 3, 2017

From stretching on barres and pirouetting across a stage, nior Elizabeth Yunerman tried a new choreography three years ago — one that would take her to the top of mountains.

It was Yunerman’s older brothwho first introduced her to climbing.

Yunerman, “I tried really little, but or I didn’t fall in

ELIZABETH YUNERMAN rock climber

S

S a i d climbing when I was I didn’t get it that much, love with it.”

As a ballet dancer, much of Yunerman’s time and energy was devoted to the sport. However, a back injury forced Yunerman to quit ballet during her sophomore year. And although she had to give up a passion, a new one would soon form and grow to fill the void in her life that ballet had previously occupied.

“I had to quit ballet because my back just wasn’t equipped for it. My brother took me a couple more times [to rock climb], and I started to enjoy it. It was my outlet, and I kept climbing more and more.”

Yunerman began spending more and more time at the climbing gym, Planet Granite. In the beginning, Yunerman would go almost every other day, but now, with more responsibilities to juggle, she does her best to visit the gym at least twice a week.

“My friend and I would go everyday [in the summer], and we would spend entire days at the gym. We would climb, workout and watch other climbers because over the summer there were really good climbers there who would train.”

Rock climbing has become a part of Yunerman’s lifestyle — pushing her to be more active, be it through hiking, working out, yoga or seeking new places to climb.

“I always

JENN ZARATAN

boy scout

“Just going out with friends outdoor finding boulders and climbing them, it is just really nice when you get on top of a rock and look down and just see like ‘I just did that.’”

AISHWARYA LADDHA features editor

go on my birthday with my brother, and we go outdoors. The first place I climbed is at Castle Rock [in Saratoga]. I have climbed there a couple of times, both bouldering and top roping. I have also climbed — near San Francisco — it’s called Mount Tamalpais. And that was by far was my favorite climbing experience because it looked over all of the Bay Area.”

Yunerman describes the experience of climbing as one of reflective serenity.

“When you get on top of a rock and look down and just see like ‘I just did that’ … You are just on the rocks, just you and the rocks and the view — [there is just] something about that,” said Yunerman.

As much as rock climbing is a recreational activity, it is also a competitive endeavor. Yunerman’s first competition, called “Block Party,” took place at Planet Granite, where she ranked an impressive 10th place in her category.

Like most skills, taking the first step outside of a comfort zone is often the most difficult part.

Said Yunerman, “It’s been different throughout my whole climbing [experience,] but at first I just struggled with trying stuff … I was too afraid to try anything new, but [now] I got over that.”

Yunerman points out that regardless of how far she has gotten in rock climbing, she is constantly seeking to push herself and work on climbing more difficult levels.

Yunerman said, “At this point, the one thing that is holding me back is my strength. A lot of people have a misconception that climbing is all about arm strength. A lot of it is technique and placing your feet right, so you don’t have to use your arm strength. But when you start to get into the higher difficulties, you start to need to use that strength.”

For those looking to climb outside of their comfort zones and try something new, Yunerman encourages them and offers her advice.

“If you do want to start climbing, do it, because it really is worth it,“ said Yunerman. “Starting inside a climbing gym is the best way to begin climbing, because you can rent the shoes, the harness if you want and the top rope. And there are always people around you who can help you.”

becoming an adult. It promotes values such as liberty and other good moral values for boys and girls.”

During his three years as a Boy Scout, Swamy and his troop have met weekly and attended monthly trips. On their outings, the troop sets up tents, cooks food, hikes and swims.

Said Swamy, “[On trips], the most important life skill I learned “ [Boy scouts] isn’t just is leadership. In your troop, over about learning knots or first time, you are assigned leadership aid — although they are positions which teach you responreally important. It’s about sibility, because you pave the path for your peers.” how you conduct yourself, As members put in hard work, how you maintain yourself, they rise through the ranks, beginJENN ZARATAN and how you help others.” ning with Cub Scout and ending with Eagle Scout.

Beginning his journey as a CATHERING SEOK Scout scout in 2008, Swamy has photo editor worked towards becoming an Eagle Scout.

Since its establishment in 1910, the Boy Scouts of America Said Swamy, “Since I was a have promoted values such as trustworthiness, loyalty and brav- kid, my dream was to become an Eagle Scout. I was intrigued to ery. Of the 110 million Americans who have participated in Boy go through this program and to learn [new] skills.”

Scouts since over a century ago, approximately 2.4 million boys Swamy became an Eagle Scout, the highest rank in the Boy make up today’s Boy Scouts.

Scouts program, in January 2017. However, becoming one is Said freshman Jishnu Swamy, “Boy Scouts helps encourage no simple feat — although Swamy reached his goal a few years young boys during their transition through adolescence into early, he put in the same amount of dedication and work as the

jishnu swamy

7

other Eagle Scouts to reach the requirements. Scouts must earn merit badges, demonstrate leadership and conduct an extensive service project.

“It’s an honor that, unfortunately, many don’t receive,” said Swamy. “It takes a lot of effort and time commitment. It’s a new level of leadership and responsibility that you show. Basically, you learn to represent scouting itself, not just your own troop.”

While the program teaches adolescents basic survival skills, it also helps develop character and strong bonds. The sense of responsibility and leadership aspects help members gain independence and valuable experiences.

Said Swamy, “A lot of the experiences that I had in [the program] have directly taught me skills that relate to how I converse in everyday life. As a person, I’m more open, more confident, and I enjoy going out, networking with people, talking to others and really creating strong friendships. One thing everyone can get out of Boy Scouts are bonds that will last them throughout their entire lives.”

Furthermore, Swamy describes his troop as a family. Swamy credits the adult leaders and other Eagle Scouts as his role models. They show the other scouts that Boy Scouts is more than learning to tie knots and first aid; it’s about learning how to conduct oneself and being selfless in all situations.

Said Swamy, “[My first summer camp] was in 2013, and it was nothing like the camps I had done before; we had to stay with the troop for an entire week. The time I spent with [them] really strengthened our bond and made me feel like I was a part of the family. A lot of the experiences and things I’ve learned are things that I never would have had without Boy Scouts.”

As the Boy Scout’s motto says, they’re always prepared for whatever comes their way.

8

Lifestyles TODAY'S SPECIAL

March 3, 2017

secret menu items that won't stay secret for long

PIZZA HUT

STARBUCKS

BACON STUFFED CRUST

THIN MINT FRAPPUCCINO

HOT DOG STUFFED CRUST

COTTON CANDY FRAPPUCCINO

Double Chocolaty Chip Crème Frappuccino with mint syrup

Original pizza crust filled with bacon and three types of cheese

Pepperoni pizza with pretzel-dog crust

Vanilla Bean Crème Frappuccino with raspberry syrup

PASSION TEA LATTE

HEART-SHAPED PIZZA

Iced Passion Tango Tea with soy milk instead of water

Personalized pizza in a heart shape *Free on Valentine's Day

HONEY NUT MACCHIATO

Caramel Macchiato with chestnut praline syrup instead of vanilla syrup

CHIPOTLE

JAMBA JUICE

QUESADILLA

Tortilla, cheese and any burrito fillings

BLUE GUMMY

QUESARITO

Soy milk, raspberry juice, orange sherbet, pineapple sherbet, raspberry sherbet, mangoes, blueberries

Burrito with cheese quesadilla tortilla shell

BURRITODILLA

SOUR PATCH KID

Quesadilla with burrito fillings *Only available at select locations

Lemonade, orange sherbet, lime sherbet, pineapple sherbet, raspberry sherbet, blueberries

NACHOS

SKITTLES

Chipotle tortilla chips with any combination of meat, beans, vegetables, cheese or salsa

Peach lemonade, lime sherbet, frozen yogurt, strawberries

BUTTERFINGER

DOUBLE-WRAPPED BURRITO

Carrot juice, chocolate, peanut butter, frozen yogurt

Extra layer of tortilla shell in any burrito *Free of charge

COMPILED BY SANTOSH MURALIDARAN AND JOSEPHINE ROBINSON

stevens canyon road, cupertino

san tomas aquino trail, santa clara

big basin way, saratoga

BIKING IN THE BAY

SUDARSHAN KANNAN copy editor

Drive down Foothill Expressway on any weekend morning, and the bike traffic is equivalent to car traffic. With easy access to climbs of various difficulties and fair weather, the Silicon Valley has lent itself to being a stomping ground for competitive and recreational cyclists.

Right behind the Stevens Creek Reservoir, one can always find cyclists spinning up and down Stevens Canyon Road on their way to more challenging climbs.

For the 11th time, the city of San Jose is hosting Stage Two of the Amgen Tour of California, and other Bay Area cities such as Woodside have hosted stages in years prior.

While riding a bicycle may not come to mind as a popular sport, the cycling community in Silicon Valley is teeming with activity on roads and social media networks, most notably Strava.

Best described as “Instagram for Cyclists,” the app allows cyclists and runners to record and map their activities while connecting with fellow athletes.

Said Homestead High School senior and avid cyclist Lucas Bandarkar, “The satisfaction you get from putting in so much effort to complete a ride is unparalleled, especially at the top of a climb. The sport is accessible and social, and in the Bay Area you have so many cool roads

and climbs to explore.”

Naturally, various bike clubs and cycling groups have popped up around Silicon Valley, with riders of diverse skill levels meeting at various coffee shops and landmarks to embark on group rides. For instance, every weekday at noon, cyclists meet up at the Los Altos Peet’s Coffee to ride up Page Mill Road and other Los Altos and Palo Alto cycling hotspots on the “Noon Ride.”

Similarly titled group rides can be found at the Los Altos Peet’s Coffee, such as the Spectrum Ride and Alto Velo Club rides. While the cycling community is primarily comprised of adults, there are a few teams that cater to youth riders, such as the San Jose Bike Club and the Team Fremont.

Said senior and competitive cyclist Daniel Hii, “Youth cycling in this area is centered around San Jose because of the Hellyer Velodrome.

There, they use track bikes, which appeal to many youths, because fixies tend to be popular among many people of this age group.”

Unlike other parts of the world where cycling is popular, the Bay Area does not have a high-stakes and competitive cycling culture, regardless of the numerous teams and groups in the area.

Said Hii, “We all have to deal with the same problems such as bad drivers, and we share really good routes. There is that not much competitiveness out there, barring races.”

The Prospector

March 3, 2017

FAST FASHION

and its impacts on the environment

ALLISON LO lifestyles editor

CHRISTINA SHAO sports assistant

Fast-fashion retailers have always been popular — clothing stores such as Forever 21, H&M and Zara have bridged the gap between designer brands and common manufacturers for decades, making trendy styles accessible for all shoppers. But fewer consumers are taking into consideration the impacts of their “hauls” on the environment.

“Out with the old, and in with the new” is the new mantra for many shoppers, who quickly and eagerly replace last season’s

fashions with the next season’s. Environmental consciousness is rapidly becoming buried beneath an ever-growing pile of clothes for Goodwill as shoppers consume increasing amounts of clothing each year.

The overproduction of clothing has serious repercussions on the environment. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, 13 million tons of clothing are thrown away every year, most of which are made from synthetic fabrics like polyester, acrylic and nylon. These man-made fibers are not biodegradable and may stay in landfills for over a hundred years. The discarded items also release gas emissions over time, and the chemicals used in the manufacturing process leach into and damage soil.

Multiplied by the amount of clothing consumed per person each year, the magnitude of environmental risk is increasing at an

A LIFELONG SUBSCRIBER

what I learned from Asian-American Youtubers MEILINDA SUN editor-in-chief

I grew up watching Nigahiga with my siblings. The three of us, crowded around a small computer monitor, watched and rewatched the infamous “How to be a Ninja” and “How to be a Gangster” sketches. I spent hours devouring lookbooks and makeup tutorials by bubzbeauty and ilikeweylie and fangirled with my friends over miniachilles’ music.

While I hadn’t known it in elementary and middle school, I was witnessing an unprecedented explosion of Asian-American YouTube content creators. This ragtag group of entertainers — a teenager filming with a webcam in her bedroom, a college student recording music using a home-brewed sound setup in his living room, a group of friends enlisting their family members to act in their sketches — was fundamentally transforming the portrayal of Asian Americans in media in the United States.

Newscaster for CNN Ted Rowlands explained that the core audience of Wong Fu Productions consisted of “young Asian Americans who often [couldn’t] find accurate depictions of themselves in mainstream media.”

YouTube democratized the entertainment industry. Unlike in Hollywood and in mainstream media, YouTube presents no barrier to entry; there are no designated movie characters and roles, casting calls or directors.

This “flatness” facilitated the prominence of Asian American YouTubers, which, in turn, has led to their numerous career successes.

Michelle Phan, who began her career posting makeup tutorials on Xanga under the username ricebunny, was named to Forbes’

30 Under 30 list, retains nearly 9 million subscribers and has founded her own beauty subscription box company, ipsy. Several years after Arden Cho began filming song covers for her YouTube channel, she secured the role of Kira Yukimura on the show “Teen Wolf.”

The film group Wong Fu Productions, whose members met as college students attending UC San Diego, has created films that were featured at the Los Angeles Asian Pacific and Cannes Film Festivals. YouTube was a stepping stone for Asian Americans in the beauty, fashion and entertainment industries; this diversity of content creators has had an especially profound impact on minority viewers — particularly in preventing them from internalizing the stereotypes widely perpetuated by the entertainment industry.

Over the years, I have come to realize just how important these entertainers were to shaping my Asian American identity. It was on YouTube that I saw, for the first time, an Asian American who wasn’t a “nerd” or a token minority. In a day and age when tall blondehaired and blue-eyed models were the cover girls of every beauty magazine, short girls with black hair and dark brown eyes — girls who looked like me — were considered fashionistas and beauty gurus in the YouTube community; they were considered beautiful. I laughed alongside vloggers as they poked gentle fun at their families’ saran-wrapped television remotes and the piles of shoes at the doorway of their homes during gatherings with friends.

I learned that I could be “cool” and “Asian” at the same time; I didn’t need to choose between my ethnicity and my identity outside of it.

The Asian-American YouTube community taught me what it means to embrace my cultural identity — saran-wrap and all.

Lifestyles

9

alarming rate.

Donating clothes is often a convenient solution to having a cluttered wardrobe, but stores that normally take and sell used clothing sometimes reject clothing from fast-fashion retailers due to the clothing’s low value. According to a Newsweek article from 2016, only 0.1 percent of the clothing collected by charities and take-back programs is recycled into new fabrics. The massproduced, affordable clothing found in many wardrobes is typically made from textiles of relatively poor quality, deeming them unsellable. In many cases, there is also too much clothing from these retailers for nonprofit organizations like Goodwill to process.

However, retailers are beginning to offer alternatives to encourage purchasing higher-quality clothes that are better for the environment. In 2016, Urban Outfitters released a clothing line called Urban Renewal, which recreated trends using surplus or vintage materials. Online retailers such as ModCloth and Etsy also offer eco-friendly clothing and accessories created by independent designers with the specific purpose of upcycling.

There are many simple and ways to extend the lives of clothing. Some YouTubers have recently popularized exchanging clothes to experiment with new styles. Smartphone apps like Poshmark and Tradesy allow users to buy and sell used clothing. Even DIY recycling projects at home can help lessen the environmental impact of clothing production, as well as help recreate a wardrobe.

Clothing from fastfashion retailers not only has lower quality and goes out of style quickly but also leaves a scar on the environment that takes generations to fade away. Choosing environmentally-friendly alternatives will help both ease the load on the planet and introduce new styles for your everyday outfit.

five free thrifty apps:

poshmark threadflip tradesy thredUP vinted

10

Sports

RIGHT OFF THE BAT: A CLOSER LOOK AT CHS GIRLS SOFTBALL

s

March 3, 2017

changes to student athlete award criteria ESHA RADHAKRISHNAN opinions assistant

JENN ZARATAN

GIRLS SOFTBALL | Freshman Alyssa Hoeke positions herself to catch a ball from the outfield

JENN ZARATAN photo editor

Often simply cast off as baseball’s less covered female counterpart, softball rarely gets its place in the limelight; although similar, but hardly interchangeable, to baseball, there are a number of dissimilarities in dynamic, rules and strategy that distinguish softball from other sports. Seeking recognition for a relatively low-profile sport and a better record for the new season, Tino’s varsity softball team has already begun to see new changes from the previous year.

In the 2016 season, Cupertino’s softball team finished with an unfavorable record of 6-21; according to the players, the disappointing record can be attributed to issues related to teamwork and mutual trust.

“Last year was a struggle, but I’m really optimistic about our team this year. The key thing we need to work on is communicating together, and so far, we’re doing great at that; I think this year we were just able to get a lot closer and be more open with each other,” junior and team captain Leina Pada said. “Softball is a collective sport — we all have to work together to get one thing done.”

As one of the few sports involving minimal contact, players tend to focus more on how their own team functions rather than on how to combat their opponents, emphasizing the importance of collaboration even further.

Said senior Nishita Bhatt, “Although softball is kind of an individual sport with batting and fielding, I think teamwork is still very important because you need to be able to trust your team to catch the ball and have your back, and that no matter what happens, they’re not going to put you down regardless of any mistakes you make.”

The team has struggled to garner many players in the past, and with the varsity roster currently at ten players, there are just enough girls to make a team.

“I think softball is a really underrated sport. It involves running and throwing and all parts of your body, so you’re not just working one muscle or thing,” Pada said. “On the field, you’re really close with each other — no more than ten feet apart — so you’re always talking to someone and you’re always communicating. Coming into freshmen year, I was really shy, but now I’m very vocal.

You have to learn to be loud and speak up.”

Among softball’s many differences from baseball’s, the major question surrounding gender persists — when and why exactly did softball become distinctly for women? Tino and most other high schools offer an exclusively all-girls softball team; yet, when the sport was founded in 1887, it was originally played by men. As for baseball, women have played the sport for over a century, so the notion that softball was created specifically to be a female version of baseball falls flat as well.

“I do think one of the reasons softball isn’t as popular [as baseball] is because it’s an all-girls sport. When you think about basketball, you don’t automatically think of the women’s league, and I think it’s the same thing for softball and baseball, ” Bhatt said. “[Women’s sports are] not very emphasized in the media or in our culture.”

Student athletes are typically faced with the strenuous task of balancing exhausting after school practices, piles of never-ending homework and sleep, usually without any appreciation or acknowledgement. Unprecedented in the district, Cupertino High School practices the distinctive tradition of honoring their most exceptional student-athletes in an award ceremony after each season ends.

Said ASB advisor Wes Morse, “Our sports awards assembly is the only one of its kind in the district. I don’t think any other school put on this kind of event. We try to celebrate our athletes collectively within the season.”

Morse cited the hectic schedules of Cupertino students as a primary reason for sparse attendance to sports games. Because most students hold various other commitments after school, Morse explains, they often lack the time to attend events that do not necessarily belong in their own extracurricular agendas, leading to a lack of attendance.

“A lot of our athletes sometimes feel that they don’t get recognized enough for their sacrifices, success and the effort they put in,” Morse said. “And I think that depending on who you talk to, they’re going to disagree or agree to that. But based on the turnout for games, that one could argue that the support really isn’t there. But over the years our sports awards ceremonies have been really successful and fun. We just really want to recognize our athlete for their achievements and participation ... We do also have the big culminating one at the end of the year in May where we try to re-recognize some of the athletes from earlier years and then pick an Athlete of the Year and a Coach of the Year.”

Previously, plaques were given to athletes who were able to maintain a 4.0 GPA along with their chosen sport. However, now, certificates are given to four students from each grade who possess the highest GPA and are participating in two or more sport.

Said Morse, “We don’t give out plaques anymore, because that’s going to bankrupt the school. The rise in the number of 4.0s and the decline in ASB card sales really led to this decision.”

Although the medium of recognition has changed, Cupertino High School takes pride in ensuring that all its student-athletes are appropriately valued.

Tania Kabiraj, ASB sports commissioner and an athlete herself, plays on the Cupertino High School girls varsity tennis team. The long hours at practice and tournaments allow Kabiraj to understand the sizeable commitment that athletes must have in order to participate in athletic and academic activities.

Said Kabiraj, “We still want to continue this tradition because our athletes work really hard and make our school proud. I believe that they deserve to be appreciated.”

HITTING THE GROUND RUNNING boys baseball adopts rigorous training regimen for new season NICO CHILLA lifestyles assistant

When I organized an interview with Pete Hernandez, student conduct specialist and head coach of Cupertino’s varsity baseball team, I was met on the field with a surprising sight: almost the entire 15-player team was practicing passes, doing running exercises and setting up equipment before seventh period was even halfway through.

“We call it early work,” Coach Hernandez said. “None of the varsity baseball players have seventh periods, so they voluntarily come out and work on things that they are having trouble with.

The kids understand that seventh period is an opportunity to get better.”

Under Coach Hernandez, the varsity baseball team partakes in long and arduous practices six days a week to improve their technical skills, communication abilities, strength and agility. The team has three additional assistant coaches that work with the players in small groups.

“Baseball is the kind of sport where you have to want it and work for it,” senior and catcher Connor Shiomoto said. “Some guys have talent, but that only gets a player so far. If you do not practice and are not able to repeat good performance, you are never going to reach your full potential.”

For the past two years, the team’s commitment has paid off. In 2015, the varsity baseball team won the El Camino Division (the lower of two leagues) in the SCVAL tournament and made their first appearance at CCS in 15 years. This achievement helped Cupertino springboard into the De Anza Division in 2016, where they played at a higher level of competition.

“Last year we were in the De Anza League and competed very well, but we were on the younger side, so we did not place high in the division,” Coach Hernandez said. “Now we are back down in

COURTESY OF BILL WALSTROM

the El Camino League with a lot of returning players, so the hope and anticipation we have is that we’ll win Leagues and go to CCS.” Baseball, “America’s national pastime,” is surprisingly inconspicuous at Cupertino compared to its fall and winter counterparts, football and basketball. The explanation for this is quite simple; baseball moves at a relatively slow and deliberate pace, remaining quiet, save for the occasional home run.

“I think the reason it is not as popular is that if you do not understand baseball, you do not want to watch it ... You have to be able to follow it,” junior Ben Townsend, who plays pitcher, catcher and shortstop for the varsity team said.

Despite receiving relatively less attention from the student body compared to other sports groups, the Cupertino High School baseball team displays admirable passion and commitment to their sport.

Said Shiomoto, “I like the mental aspect of the game. Something is going on in every play.

There is always somewhere you have to be and something you have to be thinking about. You have to be ready for different situations.”

Sports

The Prospector

March 3, 2017

student-athletes by the numbers:

3.5 hours

average length of practices

9 teams

playing in the spring season COMPILED BY ERIN SONG

11

portfolio preparation class the portfolio preparation class: provides fundamental knowl edge and understandings of art and design processes training invisualcommunication andself-expression skills development ofportfolios for artcolleges and universities for: high school students dates: every saturday 10:15am-1:15pm location: 2905 homesteadroad santa clara, ca 95051 contact: (408) 244-8311 | artclass70@ gmail.com | www.sjaart.com

MONTHLY SCOREBOARD BOYS BASKETBALL: 14-10-0

BOYS TENNIS: 1-0-0

SOFTBALL: 0-0-0

BOYS SOCCER: 7-12-2

BOYS VOLLEYBALL: 0-0-0

GIRLS SOCCER: 7-11-1

BOYS GOLF: 0-0-0

GYMNASTICS: 0-0-0

GIRLS BASKETBALL: 20-4-0 COURTESY OF MAXPREPS

s potli ght :

chs dance team NEERALI SHAH sports assistant

ELENA CHANG flipside assistant

Nearly everyone has seen the Golden Spurs’ choreographed numbers at rallys and kick lines at football games. While the dance team is highly visible at sports games and spirit events, few are aware of the various routines they learn for competitions.

The Cupertino High School Golden Spurs is a 13-member audition dance team, coached by Kim Caldwell, with Alyssa Dargert and Juni Cha as the officers. To join the team, each dancer must learn pieces with three different dance styles. Eighth grade students audition the April before entering high school to ensure they receive sufficient practice and are ready for the next year.

“Contrary to popular belief, dance team is time-consuming. It is a significant part of your school life, especially if you take dance classes outside of class too. It is your entire afternoon,” senior Aska Fujimori-Smith said.

Before dance competition season starts, the team performs for Cupertino’s football games, basketball games and rallies. While making routines for each of these events, they continue to create and practice their competition pieces. Although they only have four competition routines, each performance is never the same, as they continue to change costumes every time.

“Dance team is a big team spirit type of activity. We are at lots of school events and are involved in school spirit and culture,” freshman Marie-Claire Norins said.

At competitions, they compete in four different routine types: lyrical, jazz, character and pom.

The jazz and lyrical routines are performed by smaller specialty teams, while the majority of the team performs pom and character. Character dance is where the team chooses a character to embody, with this year’s theme being “1920s bathing beauties.” A jazz dance is often sassy, while a lyrical dance can be sad and emotional. Pom routines are sharp dances that are based heavily on synchronized choreography.

Every year, at the end of February, the dance team travels to Florida to perform in the ESPNsponsored National Dance Team Championship. While in Florida, the dance team competes for two days and visits Disney World for three days. The Golden Spurs have performed well at the event in recent years, even placing in two routines in 2016.

“For team bonding, we go on a mystery trip and have a dance team sleepover. [For the mystery trip] our coach takes us different places, and last year we watched a dance competition and got dinner afterward,” junior Alyssa Dargert said.

In the past few years, the dance team has evolved as members come and go, but the qualities that have never changed are the supportive dynamic between the dancers and their love for the sport and their team.

“I enjoy the team environment. Since there are only 13 of us, we are tightly knit and it is everyone trying to make each other the best we can be,” Norins said.

Flip Side

March 3, 2017

12

FEBRUARY IN PHOTOS

a

JENN ZARATAN

CATHERINE SEOK

CATHERINE SEOK

CAREER FAIR | A speaker presents about his job to students during the fourth annual CHS career fair

1

fact

WORLD HIJAB DAY | Sophomore Tamara Zafer helps sophomore Emmanuel Muriuki put on a hijab

Beeswax can be used to waterproof shoes.

Although this method might not be as effective for shoes with more expensive surfaces or rough textures, beeswax serves as a cheaper alternative for waterproofing canvas shoes. Cover the canvas on your shoe with storebought beeswax and use a blowdryer to work the wax into the fabric. The beeswax will become invisible once heat has been applied to it.

2

Dryer sheets can help manage static on hair.

3

Cooked carrots are more healthy than raw carrots.

4

BAKING SODA MAKES BOILING EGGS EASIER.

Rub a dryer sheet on a brush or comb before using it to brush your hair. Dryer sheets contain positively charged ingredients released by heat and movement. The material on the dryer sheet minimizes static and de-clings flyaway hairs.

Cooking carrots actually increases their nutritional content. The process of cooking them breaks down the tough cellular walls that encase the beta-carotene. Beta-carotene is a highly beneficial antioxidant that aids in the production of vitamin A.

Adding baking soda to water when boiling eggs increases the alkalinity of the cooking water, which makes the eggs easier to peel. Add a half spoon of baking soda per one quart of water for the optimal ratio of baking soda and water. The egg peel can then be easily removed in large pieces. Using baking soda also preserves cooking time as it requires no extra time to preparing the egg for boiling.

1

ETHAN QI

ESHA RADHAKRISHNAN

FBLA | Senior Sanika Mahajan gives an award to junior David Tung at the Bay Section Leadership Conference

CHOIR SERENADES | History POWDERPUFF | The Senior teacher Kelly Roush is sere- Stingrays cheer during their naded by the boys of Cappella game against the Sophomore Choir during class Superheroes

fiction

Apply lemon juice to your skin to clear your acne.

Contrary to the old wive’s tale, pure lemon juice actually aggravates the skin. The acidic nature of lemon can easily irritate the skin, especially when it is difficult to determine the acidity of a lemon fruit. Lemons are also phototoxic, meaning that going into the sun after applying it to one’s face might cause chemical burns.

2

When cooking, add salt to water to make it boil faster.

3

Energy drinks are the best way to stay hydrated during a workout.

4

people are either left- or right- brained.

As anyone who has taken a CHS chemistry class might know, adding salt to water actually increases the liquid’s boiling point. The amount of salt added to water when cooking, however, is too low to create a discernable difference in the water’s boiling point. Salt is primarily added to water in order to enhance a dish’s flavor.

The hype behind energy drinks can be largely attributed to mass media advertising in the athletic industry.

Although energy drinks offer quick replenishment of glucose, water is just as effective an alternative.

A popular misconception is that people think with either their left side (associated with logical and analytical thought) or right side (associated with creativity and intuition) of their brain. Although certain parts of the brain seem to be more active during some activities, there is no scientific evidence that people are dominated by either their left or right side of their brains.

COMPILED BY ERIN SONG

March

Winter Sports Awards Night

Junior Prom

Masterwork Concert

Spring Play Debut

Tino Gives Rally

International Week

Monday, March 6

Wednesday, March 8 Friday, March 10

JENN ZARATAN

Saturday, March 18 Friday, March 24

Monday, March 27 - Friday, March 31 COURTESY OF QUENTIN REY

*Correction: March 4, 2017 The print edition of this calendar indicated that Junior Prom would occur on March 17. It will take place on March 18.

Legally blind: trials and triumphs GENE KIM news assistant

I see something black on the kitchen table, resting on a convex white shape. My first thought is that my parents had left me a small slice of chocolate cake to enjoy after a long day back at school. When I get closer and touch, however, I realize that my parents had actually left their black cell phone which happened to be lying on a piece of paper.

Moments like this sometimes make me wonder if the risky eye operation 14 years ago was really worth it. The attempt to remove the retinal scar tissue only ended up damaging the rest of the eye more, and the scar tissue eventually returned, making my vision worse than it could have been. Aside from having to perform simple tasks like conversing, walking and homework without being able to see fully, visual impairment has caused many social and interpersonal interactions to be more difficult. When I was in seventh grade, I was running errands at a nearby grocery store. Unsure of where the purchasing line was, I asked a man who was passing by for directions. He gave a confused yes and pulled me over to what I presumed was a waiting line. As I began to realize I was standing at the counter, a judgemental “um” came from behind me and I felt a hand grab mine and hoist the gallon of milk onto the table for me. It was not that I did not understand how to purchase an item at a convenient store or that I did not know what to do at a register, but that I was not able to see well enough to conclude that I was standing in front of one. Often my visual disability was misunderstood for a psychological one, and the respective actions that followed the notion left a sense of deep isolation that I couldn’t overcome until recently. It was difficult to connect with others, because I felt that their interactions with me were more rooted from pity or a false idea of me, rather than genuine concern. Extreme politeness seemed to be specifically and near universally directed towards me, and I knew it was because of my physical distinction from nearly everyone that I knew.

It took many years until I finally realized that my peers meant the best for me, and that they had no intention of antagonizing me in the slightest. I realized that the generalizations I had made about my peers being misunderstanding and ingenuine prevented me from investing in relationships that could have grown, if I had trusted the people around me more.

In retrospect, despite all of the initial physical and emotional difficulties, visual impairment has been the source of many enduring benefits. Memories relating to mistakes made because of a lack of vision have become an idiosyncratic aspect of life that are even amusing to look back on. The social misunderstandings allowed me to become more pensive in communicating how I truly feel and understanding why people act a certain way; to not hold anything against them, but to come to know their intent and respond accordingly. And ultimately, my struggles allow more empathy with those who have struggled with isolation, misunderstanding and mistrust. Visual impairment has taught me that the beatings of life are initially painful, but occur to shape and build character.