Senior Edition 2017 by The Highlander

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SENIOR EDITION

Volume LXI • Issue 7 • June 2017 • McLean High School thehighlandernews.com • @MHSHighlander

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highlander CONTENTS

Volume LXI • Issue 7 • June 2017 • McLean High School thehighlandernews.com • @MHSHighlander 1633 Davidson Road McLean, Virginia 22101

Letter from the Senior Editors

Remembering Mike Zook

Graduation speaker Steve Scully and Q&A with class sponsors

6-13

Highlander senior staff bios

Advice from seniors

Where seniors see themselves in 10-20 years

Senior highs & lows

Senior superlatives

Throwback pictures

Dear Seniors, It’s with simultaneously heavy and light hearts that we write this final letter. This year has been a roller coaster from our last first day of high school to our last day of finals. Thank you for reading The Highlander—we’d be nothing without our loyal readers. We hope this final issue is a fitting tribute to the senior class. Nearly every senior worked with our class administrator, Mr. Zook, in some capacity during high school. We’re incredibly grateful for his contributions to our school and our lives, and are proud to recognize his life in this issue. Be sure to read about our graduation speaker Steve Scully, senior executive producer and political editor for C-SPAN. Check out our famed college map, which spans a whopping four pages. Although our class may be spreading across the globe next year, our time as journalists at McLean will always live fondly in our memories. It’s been a privilege to cover such an accomplished student body.

Teacher fashion

Retro reviews

Catch you on the flip side (of the magazine),

22-23

Senior survey

24-27

College map

28-29

Class of 2017 college athletes

Melanie Pincus, Ingrid Morse & Carlyn Kranking

Editorial Policy: The Highlander is a designated public forum in which students can express themselves, discuss issues and exchange ideas. School officials do not exercise prior review on this publication or its online counterpart, and student editors are in charge of all final content decisions. Advertising Policy: The Highlander sells ad space on each page of the paper except on the front cover, Opinions section and In-Depth article. The staff reserves the right to reject any ads it deems libelous, obscene, disruptive or otherwise inappropriate. To Submit a Letter to the Editors: Please e-mail it to thehighlanderstaff@gmail.com or bring it to room R133. The staff reserves the right to edit letters for grammar and clarity, and all letters are subject to laws concerning obscenity, libel, privacy and disruption of the school process.

Cover photo illustration by Shanzeh Umerani

Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.

PROUD SUPPORTERS OF THE McLEAN HIGHLANDERS Bring in your student or faculty ID for a 10% discount on your check

Mylo’s Grill 6238 Old Dominion Dr. McLean, VA 22101

“Nothing says loving like cooking from our oven!”

Phone: 703-533-5880 Fax: 703-533-7768 www.mylosgrill.com

MICHAEL

“MIKE” ZOOK

More than an educator

ssistant Principal Mike Zook was an emblem for many of the values McLean works to instill in its students, among them compassion, acceptance and hard work. Zook passed away in May following complications from neck surgery. Zook spent 26 years as a teacher and administrator in Fairfax County. “[Zook’s] unwavering dedecation to the school and its students is truly inspirational,” junior Philena Sun said. “I think that that kind of passion and commitment is one of the ingredients of finding meaningful work for the rest of your life.” Sun worked with Zook to found McMatics, a math tutoring club. Students and faculty alike concur that it was Zook’s compassion that made him stand out. “[Zook] genuinely cared about what we thought about, what was going on in McLean and our lives... He would go to any sporting event and would just always talk to you,” senior Maddie Scherer said. This dedication to his students was just one of Zook’s many celebrated attributes. “Mike was just a really good builder of relationships. Really kind, outgoing, personable, got along well with students and faculty,” Director of Student Services Paul Stansbery said. “I think that was probably his greatest strength, just being able to build bridges between people.” Zook also served as the class administrator for the Class of 2017. “Mr. Zook was the best class administrator we could have hoped for. He was diligent and worked tirelessly for our class, as exemplified by his hours-long grilling marathon in the rain to provide food for all the seniors on indoor recess day,” senior class president Olivia McAuliffe said. “So much of what we have accomplished as a senior class council we owe to him, and we will miss him dearly.” What many may not know is that Zook did not take the path of the average educator. “I don’t think a lot of people realize it... Reporting by Ingrid Morse & Anna Murphy

JUNE

(1952-2017) but he has not always been involved with education. As a matter of fact, in his first year of college, he flunked out,” School Security Specialist Buddy Sekely said. “His dad, who was a career military officer, told him he had to get a job...so he got involved with training to be a plumber... Zook realized he did not want to be a plumber all of his life. So he went back to school and finished school.” Zook pursued a great variety of interests in his life. He was a professional musician for upwards of 25 years, owned a recording studio for 12 years and eventually made his way to becoming a beloved school teacher and finally a celebrated administrator. These life experiences helped shape Zook into an invaluable mentor for students and fellow faculty. “When I came [to McLean], it was my first job as an administrator, and because he had been a veteran administrator he was assigned to me as a mentor,” Stansbery said.

Photo courtesy of Cindy Zook

“He was really patient and knowledgeable and helpful when I first started.” In his time at McLean, Zook was dedicated to making sure that as many seniors as possible graduated. “It wasn’t just a job to him. He was heavily involved with the students, anything with the seniors. He was the go-to guy for senior activities,” Sekely said. “As a matter of fact, one of the seniors who graduated about three or four years ago...when she heard the news, she called me and said, ‘If it wasn’t for Mr. Zook, I wouldn’t have graduated.’ She is just finishing up college now.” It was through this unique series of adventures that Zook developed his seemingly innate ability to foster connections with others. “For him it wasn’t about fighting, it was about getting things done together, which I think a lot of students appreciated,” senior Zoe Dobson said. Page design by Bryan Chung

Highlander Patrons As a student-run program, The Highlander would like to thank all of our generous supporters who make it possible to print our newsmagazine. Listed below are this year’s contributors. We would also like to thank all of our anonymous supporters.

Gold ($200+)

Silver ($100+)

The Zeya/O’Grady The Abedi Family Family The Mizusawa Bronze ($50+) Family Susie & David Venkat & Sadhna French Shankar Brian Wilkerson If you would like to become a patron, please send a check to: The Highlander McLean High School 1633 Davidson Rd. McLean, VA 22101

Register your teen for our real road skills and defensive driving course. Because your teen’s life matters! Our two-day safe teen driving course takes place at the Virginia International Raceway near Danville, Virginia. It teaches teens and their parents driving fundamentals including sound judgment, good decision making, and physical control of ANY vehicle in real-life road and traffic conditions. It includes hands-on behind-the-wheel instruction in a safe, controlled environment, and classroom curriculum centered on preparing students mentally.

Upcoming Courses – July 29-30, September 30-October 1, November 18-19 For more information and to register go to www.teendrivingsolutions.org info@teendrivingsolutions.org || 919.552.5775.

Steve Scully to speak at graduation Anjalie Chauhan & Young In Seo Features Editor & Managing Editor

ften referred to as “The Most Patient Man on Television,” senior executive producer and political editor for C-SPAN Steve Scully will speak at graduation on June 15. Scully’s career in media has taken him to the presidential debates, where he had the role of alternate moderator. He was previously the president of the White House Correspondent’s Association, and he is currently serving as the regular Sunday host of Washington Journal. “It’s great that [Scully is] going to come here and share his experiences and how he got to the position that he’s in today,” senior class council member Bobby Trono said. “I think we’re all going to learn a lot from him.” Principal Ellen Reilly was able to reach out to Scully through her prior connections to him. “I used to be a sign language interpreter [for Scully’s niece and nephew]...so at all of their family functions and stuff like that, I got to know him,” Reilly said. Reilly believes that Scully’s life and political experiences make him an inspirational graduation speaker. “He just gets a broader sense of what life is going to [be like], what you all are going to be facing, because no one’s going to prepare you for those kinds of hardships or those kinds of joys,” Reilly said. “I think he’s going to keep it in perspective.” Scully himself hopes to convey the message of embracing change. “As the students of McLean High School embark on the next exciting chapter in their lives, they need to realize that life is a constant learning process. Carry on with the thirst to take on new challenges, embrace new opportunities and live a life that also includes giving back to others,” Scully said. “I want to share that message to all of you.”

Emily Fifer

Steven Walker

Math teacher

Q&A with senior class sponsors Best compliment you’ve received as a teacher?

W: I can tell you the compliment I receive the most is that I look young. I don’t know if it’s a compliment though... ‘Thank you for making BC Calc so much fun, it’s a hard class, but we really enjoyed it.’ Like that kind of thing always makes me...feel good. Best thing about being class sponsor?

F: Well, I really like this graduating class. One, because I have taught most of them, especially two years in a row, so I know a lot of kids...it’s fun! You get to plan activities and act like a senior yourself. What is something that is really popular now, but in five years everyone will look back on and be embarrassed by?

W: Dabbing. You guys throwing your heads into your elbows and thinking it’s cool. You’re going to look back at that and think...‘I lost so many brain cells while doing that’ ...I’ve seen some pretty intense dabbing. Give a kid an A who normally doesn’t get an A and they’ll knock themselves out. What famous person do people tell you that you most resemble?

F: If I had to compare myself...Monica from Friends, Courteney Cox...I’m a little neurotic when it comes to organization. That’s actually a big problem at home—I have to have everything perfect before I go to bed, same with the classroom. And I’m a planner so I like to make sure things are done right and my way...like her character. What inanimate object do you wish you could eliminate from existence?

W: There’s this like—in my basement, the bottom steps extend a little too far, and I hit my toe on it every now and then so I guess I would eliminate that. Reporter: From existence. W: Yeah, from the face of the earth. If you could be any age for a week, what age would that be?

F: I would say 24 because at that point, I have graduated college, I have a job so I make my own money, and I’m still young...you’re at a good age where you can do things on your own. You have your own money. You don’t have to answer to anybody. If you were arrested with no explanation, what would your friends and family assume you had done?

W: Snapped on a student, I don’t know. Don’t quote me on that! Never mind, I take that back. Um, I don’t know. I don’t know, I can’t. Reporter: Can I keep that quote? W: I guess you can say that. Like, just lost it on a student. F: Probably something to do with my not-so-bubbly personality sometimes, so my attitude...when something doesn’t go my way, I don’t necessarily react in the most appropriate way so it’s probably like mouthing off to somebody. Photo by Shanzeh Umerani Page design by Anjalie Chauhan & Young In Seo

JUNE

Carlyn Kranking: Editor-in-Chief

nyone who knows Carlyn Kranking will probably tell you that she is a cat reincarnated as a human. Anyone, however, would definitely tell you that Carlyn is one of the most dedicated journalists in the school. Regardless of whether it’s 10:15 a.m. in class or 9 p.m. at school during late nights, Carlyn will give 100 percent. She is never complacent and will be one of the first to rush out to get more ads for The Highlander, or simply help someone with Photoshop. But one of Carlyn’s most stand-out qualities is her compassion. I have seriously never seen Carlyn speak or do anything with ill will, and her level of compassion and kindness is one I aspire to achieve. Above all, Carlyn has been a wonderful friend. My earliest memory of Carlyn was in seventh grade when I heard her and Aisha pronounce “baby” written on a giraffe pencil case as bah-bae and talk about an imaginary turtle by the lockers. From a few lockers down, I cracked a smile but also thought they were kind of weird. Little did I know that Carlyn would later be a part of some of my favorite memories in high school. From trying to complete our World Civilization project at 1 a.m. freshman year, to trying to split four servings of pasta at Noodles & Company among three people in Denver, and failing to learn from our mistakes again by getting too many donuts at Voodoo Donuts, to Carlyn trying to keep her laughter in as Aisha and I tragically fell asleep at a journalism convention in Seattle, Carlyn has been there. I am sorely going to miss hearing Carlyn’s random “meows” but I know that she’ll be right at home with the wildcats at Northwestern. -Young In Seo

“Best Laugh”

Aisha Singh: Managing Editor If ever there was someone who could change the entire dynamic of a room simply by walking in, it’s Aisha Singh. I’ve watched the journalism room light up when she enters and starts to tell stories about her day. She is always smiling and her carefree spirit draws people to her. Aisha gets excited by the smallest things, whether it’s a dog (which she affectionately calls “doggo”), a completed infographic, a good song, a Starbucks drink or dabbing in Seattle. Though we may disagree on many things, like which of us is taller, favorableness of mayonnaise and the correct pronunciation of “aluminum,” I am so grateful to have had a friend who shares many of my interests, my love for food and my woeful inability to make decisions. Aisha has been an enthusiastic cheerleader, comfort in hard times and hilarious comic relief over the years. She faithfully laughs at my jokes, even in the late hours of the night. She is a fun-loving person and amazing to be around! When I met Aisha six years ago, I would never have thought that we would together enter high school, procrastinate assignments then complain about the work we had to do last-minute, become even closer through journalism as we traveled to Denver, New York and Seattle and then help each other pick our colleges. I am so, so proud of her for ultimately choosing the University of Virginia, and it makes me excited to see how happy she is about going there! I am beyond glad that she walked into my seventh grade English classroom. Although we are going to be 754.3 miles away from each other next year (yes, I looked it up), I am NOT going to let her walk out of my life. -Carlyn Kranking 6

“Miss Sunshine” SENIOR EDITION

Young In Seo: Managing Editor

“Jack-of-all-trades”

he great philosopher Kendrick Lamar once said “be humble, sit down.” While Young In Seo is the epitome of the first part of the statement, she takes a backseat to no one. Sometime in the winter of our sophomore year, I discovered that Young In is an incredible artist. We had been friends for over two years, but it was only then that I found out about her artistic talent when a friend saw that one of her paintings had won an award. Yes, it’s possible that I’m simply too self-absorbed to notice what’s going on in my friends’ lives, but I prefer the alternative, that Young In is simply one of the most down-toearth human beings to grace this planet. To further prove my point, I found out that same week that Young In can also play piano and ice skate with considerable skill. However, Young In doesn’t hide her talents out of lack of confidence in her skills. She knows that she’s great, but she doesn’t believe the world revolves around her. She is an incredibly caring person, and would always let me ramble on about my life throughout calc and econ (sorry again to our teachers). But like any accomplished modern woman, she has more than just one virtue. Along with humility, she possesses the ability to make fantastic page designs, play the flute and most amazingly of all, sleep in class as much as I do. If you are lucky enough to be her friend, she will always put you before herself. She will treat you with kindness. She will never give you up. She will never let you down. She will also never run around and desert you, and that’s exactly what makes her so amazing. -Laura Opsahl-Ong

Sanskriti Neupane: Managing Editor

anskriti is your classmate. The one whose public speaking skills you wish you had. She is a friend who will always be ready to help you with an assignment. She has a shoulder to lean on when you’re not having the best day. But most importantly, Sanskriti is one of the most supportive friends I know. For better or for worse, Sanskriti is in a long term relationship with her phone. They’re attached at the hip. If you think you’ve uncovered some breaking news, she’s heard of it an hour before. Where you’ll benefit from this relationship is that Sanskriti will always be there to listen to your late night rants. She’ll even invite your apocalyptic epiphanies and have just the right amount of reality checks to snap you out of it. Sanskriti is one of the most dynamic people I’ve met and I wouldn’t ask her to change any aspect of her personality. The first time I met Sanskriti was like a scene straight out of Gossip Girl. The iconic scene on the steps of the Met where a group of elite girls stood out amongst their peers. It was mimicked by the upper gym bleachers—on it was a group of high school girls and there in the center was Sanskriti. She doesn’t have the same menace of Blair Waldorf, but her intimidation was all the same to me. Sanskriti has this aura of confidence that’s so evident you’ll literally be able to hear it from another room. Her voice is one of her greatest attributes. She’s a role model for public speaking and will leave every audience in awe at this skill. From coxing boats with almost frightening motivation, to standing out amongst a room of hundreds of Model United Nations delegates, Sanskriti’s skill cannot be overlooked by anyone. -Anjalie Chauhan

JUNE

“Blair Waldorf” 7

Melanie Pincus: Editor-in-Chief

“Mets Superfan”

hen Melanie’s name is mentioned in conversation, it is often in the context of her academic and extracurricular accomplishments. She is a motivated and incredibly smart student, a strong journalist, and a talented debater. And she is rightly recognized for it. But I think what separates Melanie most are the little things about her personality, all of which culminate to make her a great friend. Melanie is a quirky and smart conversationalist. This makes long car rides with her on traffic-ridden roads sources not of frustration, but of enjoyment. It also means that the late-night chicken wings we ordered after a debate tournament in Sacramento last year will live long and fondly in my memory, merely for the conversation we shared over them. It even means that our confusion about matrices during FaceTime conversations the night before a math test can turn not only to miraculous understanding, but to lightheartedness when Melanie makes a classic comment about the Mets or Mr. Kraner or Jack Antonoff’s latest stunts. Beyond the valuable insight and character she contributes to conversations, Melanie is a generous listener. Talk about anything with Melanie, and she will commiserate or celebrate with you in appropriately abundant doses. Her loyalty and conviction as a friend is something that all who know her should recognize and appreciate. Melanie and I have the same birthday, we’ve accidentally worn the same outfit to school multiple times this year, and we like a lot of the same music. Yet there are few people who have contributed such dynamic and diverse experiences to my time in high school as she has. Thank you for being a stellar debate partner and impressive classmate, but most importantly, thank you for being a superb friend. Whoever gets to be your friend next year at Brown should consider themselves lucky, because I definitely have. -Sri Medicherla

Sri Medicherla: Managing Editor

don’t particularly enjoy driving, mainly because I have a horrendous sense of direction. Luckily, Sri and I frequently have shared destinations, and she drives like she’s lived in McLean her whole life (she hasn’t, I have). Whether we’re picking up pizza or heading to Starbucks to do some last minute debate prep, our car rides tend to be representative of our friendship: they include good tunes and great conversations. I remember the day we realized we have eerily similar music tastes. Naturally, we were driving home from something. Since then, Sri’s become one of my most valuable sources for music recommendations, and I look forward to our frequent exchanges of new discoveries. Like Sri, the music she listens to is pleasant, insightful, and nuanced. While there are plenty of big things that make Sri easily one of the coolest people I know—her piano and debating skills come to mind—Sri’s love for the little things is what makes her truly special. I don’t know anyone else who gets so excited over the briskness of an autumn day or who can derive such precise meaning from the slight break in a singer’s voice at the climax of a dramatic song. I also feel very fortunate to have found a friend who will willingly engage in a heated text debate with me about the merits of the FDR administration, even (especially?) if it’s spring break. One of my few experiences flying to California was with Sri, and we spent most of the trip trying to think of elaborate analogies to explain the state of genetic engineering (join debate!). I wish you less stressful but equally enriching travels to Berkeley. Thanks for always pointing me in the right direction. I expect us to overcome the challenges posed by living on different coasts, because I would literally and figuratively be lost without you. -Melanie Pincus 8

“Best Hugger” SENIOR EDITION

Ingrid Morse: Editor-in-Chief

“Most Zest”

ands-down the coolest person you will ever meet, she is the dictionary definition of an enigma—mysterious and layered, like an onion or some other more interesting vegetable. An artichoke, perhaps? Ingrid, like an artichoke, isn’t her best self without a little zest. Every day she gives me another reason to be amazed by her. She somehow manages to go about everything in her life in the most quintessential way possible, always poised to deliver a witty quip with jargon that speaks of wisdom far beyond her 18 years. For three years, she has delighted and humbled me with her ability to manage 30 tasks at once, going above and beyond in each commitment. She is always able to translate the chaos of my AP-induced insanity into something ordered and of far higher quality than it otherwise would have been. I honestly believe that, had it not been for her, I would not have survived the past three years. She drives everyone around her to think harder and do better, as she effortlessly whips through weeks of homework and complex class discussions with a finesse that can only be described as “Morse-like.” Each person who has had the privilege of having her in their lives will attest that they are the person they are today because of her. I’m not sure how I will navigate the murky waters of higher education without her, but I am comforted by the knowledge that I can always bridge the 557.5 miles that will lie between us with a phone call. So thank you, Goose, for all the support, the chortles (and tears), and the late-night study sessions. Thank you, for letting me watch you change the life of myself and many others over these three years, and for making me proud to call you my best friend. -Helen Bloom

Helen Bloom:

Anna Murphy:

Opinions Editor

met Helen so long ago that I don’t think I could pinpoint our exact first encounter, and I will forever be grateful for her consistent presence in my life. I can honestly say she has been one of my best friends throughout all of high school, and has helped ensure that this journey was jam-packed with midnight adventures (and misadventures) and hour-long phone calls. It has been amazing traversing through high school with someone I know will genuinely always be there to support me, no matter the level of crazy either of us is sporting on a given day. Helen is an incredibly compassionate and considerate person. She never fails to do all she can to support those she cares for and in return has united a fabulously eclectic friend group which I am proud to be a part of, as she gives her all to everything she does whether it is an assignment, an article, or fostering friendships. Together we have gone from summer camp goobers to high school graduates and I still cannot wrap my head around the fact that in a few short weeks we will be parting ways, but I would not have gone on this journey with anyone else. -Ingrid Morse

“Almond Lover”

JUNE

Reporter

’m always one to harbor friend crushes. I hear people make a witty remark in class, and I am hooked. Anna Murphy was one of those people. Poised and warm, Anna glides easily into social interactions—armed with a smile so kind it could melt butter. She brings with her a kind of calm that makes even the most stressed out student take a sigh of relief. Not just that, but her quiet thoughtfulness allows her to command an instant respect from all who meet her. And, of course, in true Anna fashion, she operates completely unbeknownst to the immense admiration her peers hold for her. While I’m sad that a younger me didn’t have the courage to spark a conversation with Anna, I am immensely grateful for the friendship I have found with her this year. Thank you so much, Anna, for being the kind of person that you are. I can’t wait to see who you impress next. -Helen Bloom

“Friendliest”

Anjalie Chauhan:

Catherine Zysk:

njalie Chauhan has earned many titles over the years: stellar reporter, committed editor, boxing extraordinaire and, luckily for me, friend. Not only is she versatile in her interests, writing about anything from the dangers of sitting all day in class to creating a witty flow chart of who to vote for in the presidential primary, but she is also a devoted journalist. She has always amazed me with her creativity and excitement over every brainstorming session. Whether we were writing about sexism in the newest installment of the Bond franchise or brainstorming headline ideas to replace my often bland first attempts, Anjalie has always been quick to come up with a new and unique approach, always taking time to help better her section or lend a helping hand. I am lucky to have spent the past three years getting to know Anjalie Chauhan in all her forms and I am so excited to be going to University of Virginia with her in the fall. -Catherine Zysk

Christine Cheon:

Shanzeh Umerani:

Features Editor

Reporter

“Brains of the Operation”

News Editor

“Worst Parallel Parker”

Photo and A&E Editor

y first year at McLean, I joined The Highlander staff and soon became friends with a group of girls, but one quiet girl stood out—Christine (otherwise known as Cry-teen). Christine and I created a close bond starting our senior year, relating with dark humor and crippling anxiety over college apps (thank goodness that’s over). Although shy and relatively quiet, Christine is a sweet and very caring person who loves her K-pop, and her laugh brings a bubbly vibe to an entire room. To be considered one of her close friends makes me so happy because I know that she can lean on me and I on her. Her quiet behavior masks her incredible intelligence and I have no doubt in the world that she will amount to amazing things at George Mason University and become an even more beautiful person (if that’s even possible). I know that next year will be full of even more stupid jokes, licking the air and bubble tea runs! Thanks for the memories—we have plenty more to make. :) -Shanzeh Umerani

“Darkest Humor”

atherine, or as I like to call her, Cath, has been one of my closest friends throughout high school, starting with our very first journalism class. During freshman year, it was Catherine who convinced me to join crew, a decision I am sure she almost immediately regretted after hearing me cox for the first time. Cath is someone who works as hard as she can on her way to success, never putting anyone down. She is always the first one to help others and is one of the most compassionate and generous people who I am lucky enough to call my friend. Thank you for always keeping me grounded, and I hope we will always have our group chat to make sure that none of us do something crazy. Cath, you have helped me become not only a better writer, but also a better friend, and for that, I will be eternally grateful. -Sanskriti Neupane

hen I first saw Shanzeh on the first day we had journalism together, I was intrigued by her sense of style which consisted of a flannel paired with black leggings and boots. To this day, I’m still perplexed at how she manages to always look good with her simple yet sophisticated fashion sense. By the way, I still don’t know how many flannels the girl owns. One quality of Shanzeh that I’ve gotten to know is that she is extremely empathic and understanding—she has always offered me words of encouragement and has been there for me during stressful times. I always know I can go to her with any worries I have. Shanzeh’s welcoming and comforting presence is something I always look forward to when I spend time with her. I’m really proud of her accomplishments and I wish her luck on her future endeavors. She will definitely have a bright future wherever she goes—in fact, it’s almost blinding. -Christine Cheon

“Most Likely to Push the Red Button”

SENIOR EDITION

Sophie Mariam:

Eva Zarpas:

Web Editor-in-Chief

ophie and I immediately bonded over our love of food porn, throwback music and smashing the patriarchy. But our acquaintanceship grew into an everlasting friendship a few months into the school year when we decided to embark on a journey together: writing a food article. While we encountered many obstacles, such as almost running out of gas in the middle of D.C. and losing the SD card with all the food photos on it, I would not have changed any of it. All that time spent in D.C. together gave me an opportunity to get to know this amazing and talented girl. Sophie is someone who you always want around, not only because she is great at making you laugh so hard you almost pee your pants, but because she’s always there when you need the help of a friend. Without her, I would not have had the courage to take a risk and go to the college where she knew I belonged, even before I saw it myself. So thank you, Sophie, thank you for never failing to put a smile on my face, becoming my friend, and just being you. -Eva Zarpas

Reporter

“Biggest Foodie”

Kon Matheoudakis: Reporter

hen I first entered the world of high school journalism, I didn’t know what to expect from the new environment. Since the first day of journalism when we fervently discussed our favorite newspapers, Kon Matheoudakis has been one of my closest journalistic colleagues and an impeccable and crucial member of the staff. As a close ally, Kon is inhumanly dependable, polite, confident and entertaining to be around, whether we’re spending time together during class or writing our articles last minute during late nights. When Kon turns his sights towards completing an article, he’ll surgically manifest an article with laser-guided focus. In one particular instance, Kon wrote an efficiently depicted article about college visits and obtained detailed interviews with more than five people in a span of two classes. In all, Kon is a dynamic individual who is both a masterful journalist and an exceptional friend. Kon, I wish you the very best. -Tyler Grobman

“Secretly Batman”

JUNE

hen I first met Eva Zarpas, I was extremely intimidated. Was it her artsy vibe and free-flowing demeanor that made me feel like I was about to pee myself? Or it may have been my fear of being shamed for how my love of meat is killing animals and destroying the environment by a devout vegan and tree lover like Eva. I was also a bit taken aback by the inferiority of my Instagram feed in comparison to her sick collection of professional-quality artsy photography. Eva possesses a higher level of hipster artsiness than the majority of the human race—she will always know about the latest art exhibit or hipster food trend before you. She is down-to-earth and always willing to listen to what’s going on with you and just kick it to her Britney Spears throwbacks CD or her extremely fire mixtapes. Although she is probably more chill than you are, she is also the only person who will tell you to stop looking at memes and actually do your work. VCU is truly not prepared for this cool girl and her dope photography, vegan superiority, and wholesomely rad personality. -Sophie Mariam

“Artsiest Instagrammer”

Tyler Grobman: Reporter

ou know, every once in a while you come across certain individuals that you just can’t describe in words, individuals who are purely their own person and are following their own paths. One such being is Tyler Grobman. I met him during junior year in Journalism 1, and I have to admit I have never met a character as interesting as Tyler. His ability to make any topic entertaining and thoughtprovoking is unparalleled. His analysis of topics, particularly movies, is unmatched. His elegance in explaining his personal beliefs is impeccable. And the general vibe he gives off is awesome. There’s nothing more to say—Tyler is a person anybody can make conversation with and someone anybody can get along with. Whether through his love of all things nerdy, his political ideology or his general awesomeness, Tyler is a great person that everybody should know and love. -Kon Matheoudakis

“Most Likely to be in the Illuminati”

Anjali Kumar:

Amanda Laporte:

Reporter

njali Kumar, also known as “Mini Taco Bell.” What would McLean High School be without her amazing writing contributions to The Highlander or her bubbly personality? Although she may be small on the outside, her heart and love for animals as a vegetarian is anything but little. Her passion for journalism is almost as great as her love for Taco Bell, and Anjali loves her Taco Bell. She is anything but ordinary. She is a hard-working student, currently with two jobs while still managing time for seven other classes and The Highlander. Anyone who knows Anjali would only have positive things to say about her genuine and honest character. McLean High School was more than lucky to have a student like her. This fall, Concordia University will be gaining an intelligent, Taco Bell-loving, one-of-a-kind student, Anjali Kumar. -Amanda Laporte

“Most Bubbly”

Reporter

he pink fluffball on her keychain and Starbucks in her hand are the two items Amanda will never come to school without— even if it makes her late. I see Amanda every day and the various reasons she comes to school late continue to amaze me. But that’s just who she is. She is who she is and she lets people know. She values being happy so much that she got a smiley face tattooed on her hand. Using journalism as an excuse, Amanda introduced me to the world of Duck Donuts, and I have never looked back. We went almost every other day “for the article,” got donuts, and grew closer as friends. I gained a lot of weight working on that article. However, I also gained a new, happy and exciting friend. VCU is so lucky to get a girl with such a lively personality and genuine interest in how other people are doing. -Anjali Kumar

“Tardy for the Party”

John Roth:

Jiwon Kim:

Reporter

first met John in the rough playgrounds of kindergarten while playing a classic game of freeze tag. I was, of course, frozen at the time, but John heroically saved me from my paralyzed state and took me under his wing for the rest of the game. The next time I encountered John was third period of the first day of school this year when I sat down next to him and began my first year of journalism, not knowing how to do anything. Like kindergarten and as a three-year veteran of journalism, John guided me through this game that “they” call “journalism” and has taught me everything that I know in regard to life. His love for cars, memes and agar is unparalleled. John has been a blessing to be around this year and I have truly enjoyed procrastinating on every article that we have written together. His presence in The Highlander will be missed but Virginia Tech will be getting a good one. -Jiwon Kim

“Coolest Car”

iwon is one of the kindest people you will meet in your lifetime. With long, flowing, luscious hair, he is also one of the most relaxed and funniest people you will ever meet. As a superb lacrosse player, the hair helps strike fear into the hearts of his enemies. With roughly nine years of lacrosse experience under his belt, Jiwon will playing at Emerson College in the fall and he plans to study journalism. Jiwon can be the most serious journalist in the room, investigating the relationship between school spirit and academics, or he can be the silliest and write an article about water fountains. Jiwon and I go back, from kindergartner at Franklin Sherman to now, as seniors at McLean High School; now we go our separate ways off to college. Emerson is lucky to be getting such a good person. -John Roth

“Best Deadpan”

SENIOR EDITION

Olivia Mooney:

Kyuree Kim:

Features Editor

Reporter

livia Mooney may seem shy or quiet to the outside eye, but in reality, her dry wit and humor are clear to anyone who knows her well. She is also literally a genius—I’ve met few people who are as smart as her. In addition to that, Olivia is an extremely talented journalist and an editor who’s always ready to help anyone with their articles or page designs. Her patience and polite nature are definitely needed during the occasional crazy late nights we have in journalism! I’ll never forget her filming a bunch of journalism students dancing to the Macarena and the Wobble one late night, or joking with others about the loco nature of certain teachers. Olivia is an amazing person whose talent and humor will shine at William and Mary this fall. I can’t wait for her to do brilliant things! -Aisha Singh

“ “Secret Genius”

yuree Kim’s quiet persona actually hides the fact that she is extremely dedicated to all that she sets her mind to. In journalism, Kyuree is never one to miss a deadline, and has proved to be important to the production of The Highlander this year. All of her articles are well done and always finished on time. What I most admire about Kyuree is her quiet confidence as she walks into the room. Her sense of style is second to none, and I am a big fan of her music taste. In just two years with The Highlander, Kyuree has already made an incredible impact. I know that I, as well as the rest of The Highlander staff, will miss Kyuree next year. As she moves on to the next chapter of her life, I truly hope that Kyuree will continue on with journalism. No matter what it is that Kyuree pursues, she will definitely excel at it. -Sanskriti Neupane

“Most Determined”

Laura Opsahl-Ong: Reporter

“Most Likely to Get Sunburned at the North Pole”

JUNE

ver since I befriended the slightly hyper, extremely friendly, and very One Directionobsessed girl in my eighth grade English class, Laura Opsahl-Ong has been one of my closest friends. In these past five years, Laura’s become a nationally ranked debater, a fashion icon and, obviously, expanded her preferences from One Direction to one of the most varied music tastes I’ve ever seen. Even though Laura only joined the newsmagazine this year, as a senior, she’s quickly become a part of the journalism family and I don’t think any of us could imagine this year without her. From late-night prepping to seeing Muse live to video-chatting to eating whipped cream-topped snow out of a mug, some of my best memories are with this awesome girl, and even though I’ll miss her like crazy, I know that she’s going to absolutely slay when she heads to William and Mary this fall. -Aisha Singh

Seniors’ words of wisdom...

Graduates share their last bits of advice with underclassmen Kyuree Kim & Kon Matheoudakis Reporters

“Don’t stress out about every big test—they don’t all really matter.” - Nikki Bellini

“Pick the classes that are right for you, not just the ones that are at the highest level or that your friends are in.” - Meg Holland

“Put in the work now, because by senior year, you’re going to be tired, and you’ll want to have done enough to satisfy everyone.” - Alonso Flores “Take classes that challenge you but always make sure that you do them to help your GPA; if you know you can only get a B in AP World History, then don’t take it. Instead, get an A in World History Honors.” - Daniel Tran “An incomplete [assignment] is going to hurt you more than you think, especially if it results in a zero. For chemistry, this is unbelievably critical.” - Marcus Hill Getting all As for regular classes and for AP/Honor classes are different, so challenge yourself in hard classes and impress the colleges!” - Xiang Yi

“You should take advantage of the college essay help that your counselors and student services provide; talk it over with them, and ask them for revisions. They will improve your essays a lot.” - Yongjung Lee “Apply to more colleges than you think you need to because you never know which ones will offer you more money, accept or reject you. It is better to have a variety of options than not.” - Isabella Marku

“Do the work as it is assigned. You don’t have to do a million clubs—just a couple that you are really passionate about are enough. Don’t waste your time on what you are not passionate about.” - Annabell Lee “Your freshman grades do matter when you go to college; don’t think of it as a joke and do focus.” - Heejeong Jang “Don’t be stiff. Go crazy. Have fun. High school is not that strict.” - Alex Brunner

“Stop stressing out about grades. It’s not that serious. You’ll get in somewhere.” - Leslie Jackson

“Finish high school and don’t take classes just because of a GPA boost.” - Ryan Kantor

“Take as many extracurriculars as you can and find yourself in them.” -Moe Hassan Page design by Laura Opsahl-Ong

SENIOR EDITION

2017

Where do you see yourself in...

How seniors think their lives will be in the future

...10 years? “In 10 years I see myself working as a software developer for some kind of tech company.”

-Bella Marku

2027

“Does jail count?”

-Sibghatullah Hameed

“I see myself having a successful career in NYC.”

“Working on advanced education like a PhD or working for an aerospace company like NASA.”

-Alex Klenk

“In 10 years I see myself running my own business probably.”

-Rebecca Rice

“In 10 years I hope to be working somewhere in the psychiatric/criminology field. I [want to] focus more on helping struggling [people] rather than punishing them and praying I live somewhere with palm trees.”

- Amir McCormick “In 10 years I see myself working at a law firm or for a politician, and hopefully married.”

-Matt Shaheen

“The Senate.”

- Alex Brunner

2037

...20 years? “In 20 years I see myself at home working the grill with my family.”

- Amir McCormick

“The White House.”

- Alex Brunner

“I’d like to work my way up to becoming a software engineer...but I need lots of job experience first. Also I’d like to live somewhere warm year-Bella Marku round!” “Rehab.”

-Sibghatullah Hameed

“I’d still be in medical school probably.”

-Gina Vandivier

-Richard Lu

“In a hospital...working.”

- Annie Luo “I see myself moving around overseas with my family and traveling.”

“I haven’t thought that far ahead—just hoping I keep my good looks.”

- Rebecca Rice

“Working in a lab or running a private practice. Hopefully singing jazz on the side.”

-Tina Hashemi

- Matt Shaheen “I hope I’m a surgeon by then.” -Richard Lu “Married, established in my career path.”

- Sophie Roth-Douquet

“In 20 years I see myself working for the government, [a] law firm, or a non-profit organization, and hopefully having kids!”

-Gina Vandivier

Reporting & page design by Amanda Laporte & Olivia Mooney

JUNE

MCLEA

HOP RS

ARBE B N

1329 chain bridge rd mclean, virginia 22101 (703) 356-5599

“When we all escaped after the bomb threat and I threw a [party] at my house.” - Diana Suk

“We watched a video in psych that made me queasy, so I went to go get some water. I passed out in the hallway, and the security guard dragged me to the nurse and no one in my class ever knew.” - Libby Ulrich

“Beating Langley for the first time ever in a dance competition my senior year.” - Dana Schaumburg

“When I accidentally threw away my retainer with my lunch tray and had to spend 5th period in the dumpsters outside…but I found it!”

“The last show was really sentimental for every senior in marching band.” - Will Glembocki

“I manage varsity soccer and one day during practice, my sticky bra sweated off and fell on the ground, and Coach Bouchard saw and laughed at me.” - Rita Awad

“After the bomb threat we ran from the security guard who was driving in the Gator. We hopped the fence into the yard next to the school and ran away.” - Andrew Park

“Freshman year, the girl I tried to ask to homecoming ran away during my asking.” - PJ Campion

- Lani Perkuchin

“Winning homecoming court my senior year was pretty dope.”

“Winning my senior homecoming game.” - Solomon Onyejekwe

- Mariana Patterson

“Running into my teacher on a date and having him bring it up in class.” - Naomi Jaffe

Senior HIGHS & LOWS Sophie Mariam Web Editor-in-Chief

JUNE

Page design by Bryan Chung 17

Super superlatives

Two seniors imagine their classmatesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; futures Sri Medicherla & Melanie Pincus Managing Editor & Editor-in-Chief

Tashi Gyatso: Most likely to narrate a nature documentary

Claire Wolff: Most likely to win an Olympic decathlon

Alonso Flores-Saez: Most likely to have a metaphysical epiphany

Bobby Laird: Most likely to become the Philly Phanatic

Bridget Greenwood: Most likely to be the friendly owner of your local bakery

Maddie Scherer: Most likely to get a restraining order from the Washington Capitals

Nikki Bellini: Most likely to frontwoman a famous band

Alex Brunner: Most likely to disagree with you

Margaret Kim: Most likely to start an emu farm on Mars Page design by Melanie Pincus

SENIOR EDITION

Senior evolutions

The Class of 2017’s transformations from freshman year Helen Bloom Opinions Editor

Omar Allabadi & Ryan Nader “No matter how much you change in life, always remember to be silly and have as much fun as possible.” -Omar Allabadi

Jordan Schneier

“Always remember to wear socks, because some days are colder than others.” -Ryan Nader

Bobby Trono

“If your dad tells you that he’ll get you a phone if you shave your head, don’t listen.” -Bobby Trono

“Eyebrows are really important. Shoutout to the lady who dyes my eyebrows.” -Jordan Schneier

Rebecca Rice “You’re going to hear this a lot, but high school really does fly by, so make sure you enjoy it.” -Rebecca Rice

From crib to college

Guess the senior from their baby picture Laura Opsahl-Ong Reporter

Answers: A. Hana Kontrec, B. Nikki Bellini, C. Noah Huffman

JUNE

Photos courtesy of students pictured Page design by Sanskriti Neupane

“My style is kind of quirky and fun. I like dresses with lots of different kinds of prints, things that make me happy. So I like to wear things that represent who I am and what I like, and it’s just one way that I convey that to people.” -LB

“Two words: Hip Americana.” -DW

Teacher Style

Greg Olcott

Lindsay Benedict

“Monday is [formal] tie day, Tuesday is bowtie Tuesday, Wednesday is just straight-up tie, Thursday is collared shirt day, Friday is McLean day.” -GO

McLean teachers show off their unique fashion senses

Dylan Wedan

Sri Medicherla, Managing Editor

“Mrs. Fry’s style is like Claire Cleary from the movie The Wedding Crashers. She is Maryland, and Maryland does crab cakes and football.” -history teacher Cynthia Hawkins

Kerri Fry SENIOR EDITION

>>throwback tunes<< >>Freshman year<<

>>Sophomore year<<

Counting Stars—OneRepublic Safe and Sound—Capital Cities Roar—Katy Perry Sail—AWOLNATION Royals—Lorde See You Again—Charlie Puth Rude—MAGIC! Happy—Pharrell Williams Wrecking Ball—Miley Cyrus Die Young—Ke$ha

Uptown Funk—Mark Ronson Cheerleader—OMI Earned It—The Weeknd Watch Me—Silento Fancy—Iggy Azalea All of Me—John Legend Shut Up and Dance—WALK THE MOON Blank Space—Taylor Swift Sugar—Maroon 5 Problem—Ariana Grande

>>Junior year<<

>>Senior year<<

Stressed Out—Twenty One Pilots Hello—Adele Don’t Let Me Down—The Chainsmokers Lemonade—Beyoncé 7 Years—Lukas Graham Cake By The Ocean—DNCE Hotline Bling—Drake Panda—Desiigner Sorry—Justin Bieber One Dance—Drake

Shape of You—Ed Sheeran That’s What I Like—Bruno Mars Humble—Kendrick Lamar Closer—The Chainsmokers Bounce Back—Big Sean 24K Magic—Bruno Mars Can’t Stop the Feeling—Justin Timberlake Despacito—Luis Fonsi, Daddy Yankee Side to Side—Ariana Grande Black Beatles—Rae Sremmurd

>>Most Iconic Moment<<

IMDb

>>flashback films<< >>Most Iconic Moment<< Gabriella trips and spills her spaghetti on Sharpay.

Disney

Disney Channel

Hannah pulls off her wig and reveals herself as Miley.

>>Most Iconic Moment<<

“Raise your hand if you’ve ever been personally victimized by Regina George.”

Layla uses her power to fend off the cheerleaders. Reporting & page design by Anjali Kumar & Carlyn Kranking

JUNE

Worst part of senior year? 1. College stress

What's your favorite food?

1. Pasta 2. Sushi 3. Pizza 4. Burgers

2. Busy work/going to school after AP exams

I wouldn't have made it this far without... Google

Parents

My friends Teachers & counselors

3. Saying goodbye/leaving

On a scale of 1 to 10, how much will you miss high school?

Average answer:

5.27

Senior survey: When did senioritis set in? During second semester: 31

What's the most creative excuse you’ve used to get out of a homework assignment? “I ate my dog.”

During first semester: 16 Junior year: 11

Freshman year: 7

“Joke’s on you, I haven't done homework since sophomore year.” “I once got out of turning in a paper by going off campus during that class period to buy this teacher a smoothie.” “Forgot how to read.”

SENIOR EDITION

Favorite extracurriculars:

Best memory?

Soccer Crew Jazz band Debate MUN Chemnection Interact Theater

Pep rallies: yay or nay?

“Senior indoor recess.” “When boys lacrosse beat Langley in overtime our junior year.” “Going to DECA ICDC in Nashville with my best friends.” “Having 2,315,647,798 snow days in a row sophomore year.”

most used emojis:

Yay! 65.9%

“Skipping class.”

Featuring the best responses from the Class of 2017 Red or silver days?

Favorite McLean sport to watch?

Silver days 53% Red days 47%

What would your senior quote be? “High School Musical is a lie.”

“Sweatpants are the best pants.”

“Succeeding as a senior is learning how to manage the Ls you will inevitably take.”

“I HAVE NO IDEA

“I spent 12 years waiting in Azkaban.”

WHAT I’M DOING.”

“The sun never sets on a bada**.” “It always seems impossible until it is done.” —Nelson Mandela JUNE

"I really hope that I don't fall asleep at graduation."

Survey of 86 seniors Cartoons by Dasha Makarishcheva Reporting, graphics & page design by Carlyn Kranking & Aisha Singh

VIRGINIA Northern Virginia Community College Khwaja Ahmad Jana Alchoubassi John Dieguez Avery Madore Juan Martinez Morales Summer McCollough Jinni Pham Mian Qadiruddin George Rizk Jesus Rodriguez Gutierrez

Karla Santos I Gusti Ngurah Rio Aditya Suandika I Gusti Ngurah Ryan Aditama Suandika Shanzeh Umerani Sara Weston Aya Mutahar Ali Zabara Michelle Zambrana Alcocer

Samuel Nussbaum Laura Opsahl-Ong Douglas Palumbo Jonathan Palumbo Elizabeth Pottanat Luke Scarano Madeleine Scherer Madeleine Walker

Liberty University Abigail Prather Matthew Zwirb

Longwood University Natalya James Julia LeMunyon

Hampden-Sydney College Andrew Donelson

Old Dominion University Andersen Broom Ethan Cussatt Ashley Reynolds

Alexa Alatis Michael Bradley Miles Collins Grant Cormany Alex Dutt Panagiotis Lagos Robert Laird Hollis LeMunyon Ingrid Morse Samantha Peters

George Mason University

College of William and Mary Francis Chen Jae Won Chung William Clements Isabel Cooper Jordan DeFay William Glembocki Prateek Govindaraj Kaia Johnson Olivia Mooney

Christopher Newport University

Prasanna Basnet Gabriel Chavez Reyes Hee Young Cheon Daniel Elahian Matthew Gabriel Aavash Ghimire Ayanle Hashi Margaret Holland

Rosalinda Iames Sineen Jarrar Young Hwa Kim Christian Konstantinov Nicholas Reutemann Alejandro Ross Mariam Sarver Cristina Sorrels

James Madison University John Burke Matthew Cro Heidi Deger Robert Denton John Hartnett Sophia Keilholtz Victoria Lawrence Henry LeVasseur Alexander Minutoli

Dieter Nienstadt Solomon Onyejekwe Farah Schneider Jordan Schneier Carline Stockwell Diana Suk Emily Swett Ian Tansill

Randolph-Macon College John Kelly

Lynchburg College Samantha Milani

Marymount University Valerie Haviland

Virginia Commonwealth University Oscar Auza Suarez Rita Awad Kunkie Barshee Joseph Barth Katherine Clemente Rafael Dugayo Haley Duncan Alexa Ellis Christina Enriquez Kenneth Enriquez Elizabeth Gilmer Tarulata Khadka Jalal Khan

Muhammad Khan Evan Korade Amanda LaPorte Olivia Long Annie Luo Michael Mizusawa Molly O’Hare Mary Pottanat Nael Rehman Neeki Souri Rachel Weatherby Haydar Zalawar Evangeline Zarpas

University of Mary Washington Maura Celec Emily Eames Samantha Ferris Josuha Fordyce Michael Grady Margaret Holland Ryan Kohler Jacqueline Ludwick Mariana Patterson Saebyul Perez George Stifel Marissa Walia Lauren Wojcik

University of Virginia Vanessa Barlow Lane Burgess Anjalie Chauhan Katherine Covington Charles Fang Daniel Gong Tina Hashemi Charles Houghton Noah Huffman Julia Hunter Olivia James Johan Ketkar Margaret Kim William Kodama Hana Kontrec Sophia Lee Sophia Mariam

Radford University Michael Coopersmith

Virginia Tech

Joshua Callsen Kenneth Ding John Furth Daniel Gong Brendan Grammes Bridget Greenwood Bethany Grocock Tashi Gyatso David Haas Logan Horan Joshua Kaplan Natalie Khoury Kristen Kircher Bradley Lamkin Patrick Lethbridge Natalie Luu Shahzabe Mann Isabella Marku Joshua Mosier Dylan Myrick Sanskriti Neupane Josephine Nolan Jeffrey Peng Dana Peters

Other Plans

Alana McBane Lauren Ott Stephen Palathingal Minjoo Park Brian Parsa Rebecca Rice Elizabeth Schurman Young In Seo Aisha Singh Daniel Tran Thomas Vaccaro Jason Wang Alex Wassel Katie Winn Evan Yang Renee Zhang Catherine Zysk

Eric Petri Krishma Poudel Sophia Rademaker John Roth Alexander Rushenas London Russell Lillie Saba Zaid Salameh Landon Sawyer Peter Smith Ross Stadsklev Victor Tran Nicholas Trono Elizabeth Ulrich Daniela Vandivier Andrew Visocan Jing Waid Luke Williamson Rowan Wooldridge Margaret Xavier Lily Xie Joshua Yoon Anna Zeng Avy Zhao

Ivan Ballard—Universidad de Navarra Alexander Brunner—University of St. Andrews Geovanni Coto Vasquez—Enlistment in the Marines Zoe Dobson—University of Essex Summer Freeman—Mission work Mohammed Hassan—McMaster University Rebecca Hinsley—Gap year Ines Inacio—Non-US college Rachel Jaffe—Two year college Chaemin Jang—Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology James Katson—Naval Academy Foundation Prep School Anjali Kumar—Concordia University Anna Liu—Peking University Konstantinos Matheoudakis—University of Manchester Kevin Moore—Enlistment in the Marines John Poncy—College prep school Jack Reynolds—Enlistment in the Navy Nicholas Salinas—Travel Yeaseul Shin—Four year college Jie Yi Xu—American University of Paris Xiang Yi—University of Waterloo

Alabama

Auburn University at Montgomery Gabriel Small

University of Alabama Katherine Osborne Matthew Shaheen

Arizona

Colorado

Illinois

Adams State University Caleb Roderiques Regis University Joseph McCullough Univ. of Colorado Katia Lockwood-Shabat

Northwestern University Carlyn Kranking Principia College Hanna Farson School of the Art Institute of Chicago Nicole Burns Univ. of Chicago Sophia Roth-Douquet Univ. of Illinois Mustafa Tobah

Arizona State University Olivia Powell University of Arizona Eric Lawhead

Connecticut

California

Delaware

California Institute of the Arts Katherine Ohlson California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo William Hitchcock Sierra Spraker David Todd Chapman University Daniel Proctor San Diego State University Navid Bajoghli Stanford University Samuel Silverman Univ. of California, Berkeley Rebecca Bennett Srikari Medicherla Univ. of California, L.A. Ramneek Hazrah Deirdre Klena Henry Wu Univ. of California, San Diego Jack Hecker Univ. of California, Santa Barbara Nathaniel Lavoy Univ. of San Francisco Ellinor Stenzel Univ. of Southern California Emily Kong Madelyn Rosen Tatiana Vaz

Yale University Timothy Wu

University of Delaware Elizabeth McCulla Anna Murphy Jacob Wadle

Florida Barry University Ani Katcher Florida State University Shaan Malhotra Jacksonville University Gavin Legg Univ. of Central Florida Julia Kaufmann Univ. of Florida Alexander Gerhardt Univ. of Miami Christian Flocos Univ. of North Florida Amber Smith

Georgia Savannah College of Art & Design Andrew Park

Idaho Brigham Young University, Idaho Lorenzo Leme

Maryland (cont.) Univ. of Maryland Evan Jones Chloe Kim Laurel Rottman-Yang

Massachusetts

Indiana State University Camryn DeGrafft Indiana University Geoffrey Goldenhorn Grant Herzberg Meredith Jolly Vincent Lu Purdue University Gabor Turnage Univ. of Notre Dame Caroline Lewis

Berklee College of Music Nicole Bellini Boston College Alexa Liquori Annie Xie Emerson College Jiwon Kim Harvard University Thomas McCarthy Fatima Shahbaz Tufts University Lauren Hassi Williams College Alexander Simons Worcester Polytechnic Institute Laura Cintron Garcia Alexander Klenk

Louisiana

Michigan

Indiana

Tulane University Benjamin Turley

Maine Bowdoin College Claire Wolff

Maryland Capitol Technology Univ. William Wright United States Naval Academy Anna Duval Loyola University James Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Malley Stevenson University William Salt Hannah Sandler

Kalamazoo College Helen Pelak Michigan State University Hannah Smith Univ. of Michigan Jenna Lebowitz

Minnesota Carleton College Kaan Taskintuna St. Olaf College Larasati Kettner

Nevada

University of Nevada, Las Vegas Joshua Kwon

New Hampshire Dartmouth College ZoĂŤ Chandra Saint Anselm College Catherine Dolan

New Jersey Princeton University Braulio Romero Bakker

New Mexico New Mexico State University Troy Hudson

New York Colgate University Jared Lampal Cornell University Naomi Jaffe Rahul Mani Hobart and William Smith Colleges David Pratt Ithaca College Syona Ayyankeril Jessica Scarano New York University Jessica Boyer Crystal Cheung Natalia Gochez Da Hee Lee Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute John Hudson Joshua Peterson Rochester Institute of Technology Tyler Grobman Skidmore College Kathleen Oakley Syracuse University Ji Hyung Min Farren Shannon The New School Calen Chung Yujing Hao Avery Kang Hongji Shin

New York (cont.) United States Military Academy Daniel Park Lani Perkuchin University of Rochester Hugh Curran Marcus Hill

North Carolina Duke University Olivia McAuliffe Lucy Zheng Durham Technical Community College Samikshya Tiwari East Carolina University Robert Konnick Elon University Alexander Horenstein North Carolina State University Sarah Cottros

Ohio Bowling Green State University Michael Issa Case Western Reserve University Jared Jacknow Kenyon College Isabella Femia Ryan Nader Oberlin College Helen Bloom

Pennsylvania Carnegie Mellon University Maxwell Van Buskirk Drexel University Natalie Laborde Richard Lu Robert McCormick Gettysburg College Gabriella Gilpin Pennsylvania State University Kevin McCarthy Andrea Peabody

Pennsylvania (cont.) Temple University Kameron Bateman University of Pittsburgh Camille Brazell Peter Byman Alonso Flores-Saez Samantha Lawrence Villanova University Olivia Jessar Univ. of Scranton Jacob Sechler Widener University Asher Altman York College of Pennsylvania Sawyer Theisen

Rhode Island Brown University Melanie Pincus

South Carolina University of South Carolina Samantha Kidd

Tennessee University of Tennessee Torin Dunn

Texas Texas Christian University Hayden Camp Texas Tech University Matthew Gilliam

Utah Brigham Young University Jonathan Clayton Anna Evans Carter Flint Paige Harper Elizabeth Johnson Anna Osguthorpe Fernando Ramos Carazani Hyrum Schwab

Utah (cont.) Utah State University Spencer Johnson McCord Meyers

Vermont

Champlain College James Saunders University of Vermont Hannah Moss

Washington University of Washington Yongjung Lee

Washington, D.C. American University William Boinest Georgetown University Omar Allabadi Robert Arwood Emily Lu Viraj Sunderam Andrew Yang George Washington University Natalia Fernandez Michael Zhang

West Virginia West Virginia University Sophia Abi-Najm Sami Alsamarai Giorgio Ko Maxwell Kreeb Benjamin Zarazinski Wheeling Jesuit University Paul Campion

Wisconsin University of Wisconsin Alice Alexeeva Maya Cherry Katherine Hoskins

Special thanks to Laura Venos Page design by Christine Cheon, Young In Seo & Aisha Singh

Class of 2017 college commits Senior athletes take the next step into college sports Sanskriti Neupane & Catherine Zysk Managing Editor & Reporter

SOCCER Camryn DeGrafft Indiana State Midfield 12 years

Josh Fordyce

SOFTBALL Kate Covington University of Virginia Center Field 8 years

Carter Flint Brigham Young University

University of Mary Washington

CREW

Midfield 14 years

Ani Katcher Barry University

Naomi Jaffe

SWIM & DIVE

Coxswain 4 years

Breaststroke, IM & Free 11 years

Liddy McCulla

University of Delaware IM, Backstroke & Butterfly 10 years

Cornell University Midfield & Defender 12 years

Alexa Liquori Boston College Starboard 2 years

Hannah Sandler Stevenson University Forward 12 years

Claire Wolff Bowdoin College

Breaststroke & IM 13 years

Tim Wu

Yale University Breastroke & IM 7 years

SENIOR EDITION

FIELD HOCKEY Samantha Ferris

LACROSSE

University of Mary Washington

Midfield & Forward 8 years

CHEERLEADING Farren Shannon Syracuse University Backspot 10 years

Jiwon Kim

Emerson College LSM/D 9 years

PJ Campion Wheeling Jesuit University

FOOTBALL

Goalie 8 years

Miles Collins

McCord Meyers

Christopher Newport University Midfield 9 years

Caleb Roderiques Adams State University Attack 9 years

Gavin Legg

Jacksonville University LSM/D 12 years

Utah State University

TENNIS

Offensive Guard 8 years

Helen Pelak

Ryan Nader

Kalamazoo 11 years

Andrew Donelson

Kenyon College Linebacker 4 years

Hampden-Sydney College 6 years

Will Salt

Stevenson University Offensive Tackle 4 years

Page design by Bryan Chung & Sanskriti Neupane Photos by Shanzeh Umerani & Imani McCormick and courtesy of Kent Arnold, McLean Crew Club & Cathy Summers

JUNE