Westlake Arrow Senior Issue 2021

the

Arrow 100 Lakeview Canyon Rd. Westlake Village, CA 91362 Volume XLIII | Issue 5 | June 1, 2021

Senior Issue Class of 2021 Senior reflections pages 4–5

Senior map pages 8–9

Four–year recap pages 12–13

2

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SY

OF

AM JAS ON BRANH

In this issue ...

3 Valedictorians 4 Senior reflections

E RT OU C TO PHO

Principal Branham bids farewell to Class of 2021

6 Senior activities 7 Roommate guide

WHS Graduating Class of 2021: It seems like just a short time ago when you all joined the Warrior family in the summer of 2017 as bright–eyed freshmen, nervous and excited about what the next four years were going to bring for you individually and as a class. During these years, your class has endured and overcome some of the biggest challenges and hurdles that any class has seen. I am proud to say that not only have you endured and overcome, but you have used the lessons learned to propel you to great success in the future while being aware of how your actions can leave a positive impact for those around you. Whether your path leads you into higher education, trade school, military or the workforce, I am confident that you will be successful in whatever you choose.

One of the biggest goals that I have for each of you as you come upon your graduation day is that you have learned that life is not about what others do for you but instead what you do for others. Always think about what you can do to make your school, city, community and world a better place for others. Others will not see many of these actions, and you may not be recognized for your efforts; however, the positive impact you will make in a person’s life or community is what leads the change in our world.

Always remember that as a graduate from WHS you will always be a part of the Warrior Family. It has been my honor and privilege to be your principal for the last four years, and I wish you all the ability to take the lessons learned at WHS and reach all of your goals in life.

Sincerely,

8 Senior map 10 Senior athletes 11 Senior favorites 12 Four–year recap 14 Senior wills 16 ASG graduates

Jason Branham Principal

PHOTOS COURTESY OF PUBLIC DOMAIN

theArrow

www.westlakearrow.net

westlakearrow@gmail.com @westlakearrow

co–editors–in–chief

co–web editors–in–chief

songhee lee, lauren pak & lindsey romano

news section editors

kyra berg & abigail thompson

feature section editor soumya monga

angela ling & allan tieu 100 N. Lakeview Canyon Road Westlake Village, CA 91362 (805) 497-6711 ext. 4225 The Arrow is written, designed and run by the students of the Advanced Journalism and Journalism 1CP classes at Westlake High School. The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the writers and do not necessarily represent those of the Conejo Valley Unified School District, Westlake High School administration, faculty or student body. We welcome feedback. Letters must be signed by the writer.

Cover design by Lauren Pak

arts & entertainment section editor

opinion section editor sophie robson

abigail thompson

sports section editor

graphics editor owen kobett

photo editor

angela ling

business manager alyssa rice

staff writers olivia delgrosso, nadia grdodian, makenna norman, juliana rendon, vivian stein, roman walker & harrison weinberg

margaret teegarden

adviser karie lynch

3

VALEDICTORIANS

Class of 2021 valedictorians Yusuf Alvi USC

Kaitlyn Bateman

UCLA

Ajay Bhargava UC Berkeley

Ellie Carta Ohio State

Brayden Cassar

Ryan Chu USC

Anna Chung UC Berkeley

Kylie Chung Stanford

Celeste Elkort UCLA

Eric Fang UCSD

Trevor Gadsby

UCLA

Arjun Gutta UCLA

Sebastien Harrison

Adam Hassan UC Berkeley

Hillary Hsu Duke

Kavya Jayapalan

Ethan Kao UC Berkeley

Sanya Khattar USC

Katie Kulvinskas

USC

Hannah Jun UCSD

UCSB

Isabella Lake UC Berkeley

Isabella Launais

UCSD

Alex Lim UCSB

George Washington University

Noah Lunn

Antoine Moats USC

U of Pittsburgh

Sam Mostofi

Jessica Nial LMU

USC, Hong Kong University & Bocconi University

Maeve O’Connor

Sruthi Rangarajan

Annalise Rommelfanger

Jerry Shi UCLA

Jeremy Shiu UCLA

Ruby Sirota–Foster

UCSD

Elina Vaidya Cornell

UCLA

Joshua West UC Irvine

About school ...

“Make time to get enough sleep.”

– Ellie Carta

“Hard work always surmounts talent.”

– Joshua West

UCSB

Jennifer Yin UC Berkeley

UC Berkeley

Cindy Zhang UC Berkeley

Mathew Zilberman

Bucknell

UCSB

UCSB

“Treat yourself once in a while; you deserve it!”

– Ethan Kao

“When in doubt, order kids’ mac and cheese from CPK.” – Ajay Bhargava

Amy Song UC Berkeley

Adera Craig – University of Chicago Carolina De Los Rios – UC Berkeley Celia Grant – Baylor University Sunoo Jeong – UC Berkeley Samarth Kadaba – Harvard College Gregory Levesque – Georgetown Jade Li – USC Nicholas Sukeforth – University of Miami Emma Victor – UC Berkeley Shannon Yeh – UCSD

Valedictorians’ words of wisdom About life ...

Ethan Noell

About college admissions ...

“Spreadsheets, “Don’t get too hung up spreadsheets, on a specific school.” spreadsheets!”

– Jeremy Shiu – Sanya Khattar

Quotes to live by ...

“Every moment is a fresh beginning.”

“It’s not a life ‘til you – T.S. Eliot live it.”

– Mac Miller

Compiled by Soumya Monga

4

REFLECTIONS

The great eight KYRA not Kyyyyyra by kyra berg co–web editor–in–chief Wow, high school is over. Part of me did not think it would happen so fast. I still remember switching into the district freshman year and walking in like I knew everybody. I was very confident ... No idea why.

Just a few months in, I got my first fake tan for the dance team #blessed. You know, the one that makes you look like you go outside and are not practicing all the time? Yeah, that one.

Shoutout to morning dance practices for my iconic sophomore year outfit: old dance convention sweatshirt, white sweatpants, grey Ugg slippers and my messy high bun. I looked so good that I had to repeat it. Duh. And if you smelled my peppermint mocha coffee, you are welcome.

Since spending all my time dancing was not stressful enough, I took Journalism too.

I will never forget when Lindsey Romano ‘21 and I looked through the senior map, and she said Kansas University would be fun.

Or when Mrs. Lynch eavesdropped and said she had never heard “Kansas” and “fun” in the same sentence. And, how could I forget about when Abby Thompson ‘21 “ruined” our electricity? There was also the time we huddled in the back of the class and looked up photos

of Chad Michael Murray. Alright, fine. We were obsessed with him because of Riverdale and One Tree Hill. Whatever.

Outside of school, I think about the summer beach trip before junior year, our fake homecoming senior year and Water Assassins.

A year ago, I wanted to stay in California for college. I was planning on only applying to some UCs and state schools. My big Common App essay and personal insight questions were ready to be submitted. Plot twist, what I wanted changed.

I realized going to a social school out of California would give me the college experience I need. I could not have made this decision without you, COVID–19. You helped me realize I am ready to go. I am SO ready to go.

University of Arizona Honors College, here I come! Go me for making a college decision in August and for only applying to two schools. Legend status.

Anyways, some parts of my high school experience were positive, and others felt like a joke. But, I would not change any of it because I grew as a person. I learned my stress capacity. I stopped doing things that hurt my mental health.

I survived all my classes tutor–free. Peace out, Math Analysis. I got my driver’s license against all odds. The third time’s a charm.

Leaving seems insane, but it is time for me to take on Arizona!

Cultivating my TEE–garden by margaret teegarden business manager Throughout my four years at WHS, my purpose has changed drastically.

First, it was to excel. I took the best classes I could and strived for perfect grades. I actually enjoyed school; I looked forward to coming each day.

The steam died down quickly — I got my first bad grade and missed a homework assignment. I wasn’t used to this strange pit of dread that now permanently resided in my stomach, so I tried to ignore it instead of addressing it when it was still manageable.

The next year, I changed up my plan. Scratch the whole “excel” thing, my new goal was to simply exist: try for good grades but not get too caught up over them.

I took some classes I found interesting and tried to enjoy myself again.

This worked for a while, until I realized that even with this slack loosened, I was still struggling; I was missing more assignments and doing worse in classes. I felt hopeless!

Junior year was the worst. My previous plan of “existing” had failed miserably; so, as I stumbled my way through the days, a final purpose arose: I just wanted to survive. I just wanted to make it through this period that felt never ending, I just wanted to see a light at the

end of this tunnel that felt as if it were growing smaller every second.

During my freshman year, I was diagnosed with depression and anxiety. I was always aware of my anxiety but didn’t learn about my depression until it was suddenly very apparent.

My future was blank, my goals nonexistent. I was taking an extreme amount of “sick” days, and things were still building, still getting worse.

I felt like I was about to explode.

Then COVID–19 hit, and I got this year to reflect. I tried to visualize a future where I’d be happy, where all this suffering would have finally paid off.

I applied to colleges and got a therapist. Sometimes it felt like everything was working out, and sometimes it felt like I had truly hit rock bottom.

But, I made it through. And, now I’m here … things are still bad.

I’m not claiming that recognizing I have a mental illness cured that mental illness. But I do see a light at the end of the tunnel, as small, dim and flickering as it may be.

What I beg for you to realize is that you are the most important thing in your life. School will come and go, friends will come and go, even your parents won’t be with you forever. But you will remain. Seek help when you need it, and recognize when you need it. Fight for yourself; things will get better. I believe in you, and I hope you believe in yourself, too.

My happi–LEE ever after by songhee lee co–editor–in–chief I’m a proud believer in the motto “live life without regrets,” (cheesy, I know). Though my will to hold onto that motto cracked as I wallowed in tears from college rejections, I think I’ve done a pretty good job these past four years by following this wise proverb.

I remember during our first freshman rally I told myself that these four years would go by so quickly, and boy was I right. One moment I was your FUN–SIZED (not short), way too energetic and happy freshman, and now I’m still fun–sized, but slightly less energetic and a mature senior — take mature with a grain of salt. I may be the same person, who knows.

Looking back, my high school experience was as lively as Elizabeth Bennet’s desire for Mr. Darcy in the first half or so of Pride and Prejudice.

With that being said, I wouldn’t change anything about it. The endless migration my friend group underwent to find the best spot to eat lunch, the insightful FaceTime calls with my Big Brain Boys, the countless hours spent just staring off into space instead of studying and the lunches spent in Mrs. Fischer’s room with Elina Vaidya ‘21 trying to understand biology … the list goes on and on, but I have come to appreciate the friendships and memories I’ve made during these past four years.

Though I want to say four years, I can’t forget about the huge obstacle we’re all facing right now that has and hasn’t diminished my high school experience, COVID–19.

I can’t lie that I wasn’t upset that many of our senior traditions had to be canceled and that our entire senior year would be much different than the past years. However, I do have to thank COVID–19 for providing me time to relax, giving me the ability to spend more time with my family and enabling senioritis to hit even harder.

Rather than spending the majority of my day cooped up at my desk, I’ve spent my days with my family playing in our semi–weekly badminton tournaments, enjoying our weekly movie tradition and my senioritis has gotten to the point that I use my family as an excuse to procrastinate (way to go Songhee).

But, I’ve learned a lot about myself such as my new found love for true crime that will unquestionably never go away.

To close this reflection of mine, I want to say to take the time to breathe. Find a balance between maintaining that stellar GPA of yours and spending your time doing whatever makes you happy.

I’ll miss high school, but it’s time to move onto the next chapter of my life. And I’ll make sure to live happi–LEE, honest–LEE, righteous– LEE, diligent–LEE … I think you get the point.

My philo–SOPHIE by sophie robson opinion section editor To say these past four years have been wild is an understatement. Sophie–four–years–ago had just barely been in California for a year, moving from the East Coast and the many other places she’d lived to the West Coast and learning the lessons of a lifetime. So, to the freshmen and others who still feel like they haven’t quite found their footing, here are some morals of my high school experience: 1. Don’t be afraid of the upperclassmen; they aren’t all looking at you and making fun of you and laughing at you (okay, maybe some of them are, but that’s their crime of choice and criminals are bad, so don’t worry about it).

2. You’ll only ever be as happy as you allow yourself to be, so allow yourself to be exactly who you are.

3. You have to be uncomfortable sometimes if you’re ever going to have fun in high school. Don’t restrict yourself to the teeny– tiny privileged bubble that we live in.

That’s all for the advice, folks! Now it’s time for the nitty–gritty emotional stuff… you’ve been warned.

If there’s one thing I regret most in high school, it’s ever having been self–conscious or afraid to cause a ripple in the sea that is WHS.

Here’s the thing: your life is all about you. And I know it sounds selfish to say this, but it really is true. You can’t live your high school years being afraid of what other people think because you’ll only be wasting your time.

Before we go, I just need to make a few shoutouts. Here’s to never going to a single sporting event until the second semester of senior year (lacrosse games all the way), gaining the best friends I’ve ever had (the Lake herself and many more), being one of the earliest cars in the student parking lot most of junior year (yes, the blue Mini), missing more classes freshman year than all other years combined (I had what they call “backwards senioritis”) and spending countless lunch periods holed up in the journalism room perfecting the opinion section for each issue (as my predecessor wished me, good luck Alyssa!).

And as for life beyond this point, after repeatedly changing my mind — the South, the UK, the Northeast!? — I finally settled on Cal Poly SLO (two days before commitment day, but let’s not talk about that).

And while I never did find my locker over these four years (curse you #2176 supposedly in the North Quad past the mural), I definitely found the friends of a lifetime and — hate to be cheesy, but — myself along the way.

5

REFLECTIONS

PAK–ing my bags by lauren pak co–editor–in–chief High school consisted of a few constant things for me: an unhealthy heart rhythm before in–class essays and during popcorn reading, every single friend of mine desperately trying to figure out my middle name (only successful for Lindsey Romano ‘21), receiving pre–annotated books from Avery and eating gourmet lunches from my Lululemon bag.

Let’s begin with freshman year …

I entered as a vertically challenged individual with a backpack that weighed more than me and whose homework limit was 8 p.m. From reading very possibly the worst book in existence, The Odyssey, to not being able to do geometry proofs for the life of me or participating (or barely) in one too many socratic seminars, I can say that freshman year was rough.

Not to mention, I was not fond of CP Journalism. I didn’t like taking Cornell notes, I was completely disengaged from All the President’s Men and I considered the codes and ethics unit common sense.

But three years later, now as the co–editor– in–chief of the paper, I realize that my opinion of journalism has well evolved. I now enjoy interviewing people and writing articles. I found my passion in using my creativity for page designs and graphics and most shockingly, I enjoy being a leader.

But beyond the realm of journalism, I

have grown in many other ways: I embrace my niche for environmental awareness, aesthetics, the creative field and science. And most importantly, I embrace the fact that I have and always will have a child’s palate (as much as I may be ridiculed by friends and family).

However, this growth may not have been possible without COVID–19. With an entirely remote year and only two and–a–half hour school days, I was able to prioritize friends and pastimes over grades and GPAs. Thank goodness for the pandemic because it taught me what it means to have genuine friends (shoutout to switch gang, Ruby, spray’s anatomy and more).

That’s not to say online school is a win, because I am SO lazy and unmotivated it’s not even funny. I signed up for six AP tests, and guess how many I’m taking? Zero! Not to mention, Songhee and I are forced against our will by Lindsey to write our editorials (every single issue). After college apps were done, I did the BARE minimum to say the least.

Anyways, as much as I want to leave high school, I will definitely miss my friends, classmates, teachers and all of the memories associated with them.

I won’t forget laughing uncontrollably with Tilly, Emma and Catie about grey charcoal or all the words that end with “ism;” or the good (yet strange) conversations with Mrs. Bush, Mrs. Denchfield and Ms. Jones; or asking my teachers to go to the “bathroom’’ only to circle around the school twice, simply because I was bored.

But now it’s time for me to PAK my bags for college (woo UCSD).

Flowin’ with OWEN by owen kobett sports section editor These last four years have been quite the experience, dominated by a number of different activities, chief among them my time on The Arrow staff. When I joined sophomore year, I sought to get experience with different types of writing and computer programs, but I ended up learning far more than that.

Journalism taught me the importance of each individual in a project as large as the newspaper.

It also taught me the need for time management. Although stressful, our deadlines helped us to craft more balanced and thought out plans for our daily lives. When our paper finally came to print, we truly appreciated the hard work that went into the final product.

In my first year as a member of the advanced staff, one of the biggest questions I had was what section to take on as a senior.

I started my interest with the news section, as I had always enjoyed collecting interviews and reporting on local events. However, when I underwent the interview process, I also professed an interest in sports journalism.

Subsequently, I became responsible for bringing life to the sports section. I sought to accomplish this by getting the sports writers for each issue to cover everything from personality features to news stories about various sporting events.

Besides journalism, my WHS experience was enhanced by Green Alliance which expanded my love for the environment. During

my time in the club, I became more conscious of my impact on the planet and what I could do to make an impact.

Cross country and track have boosted my leadership skills through my time on the varsity squad and as a team captain. My team captain responsibilities were organizing practices, creating fun activities and attempting to set the best example possible for the new athletes in the program.

Boys Team Charity is another commitment that began during my time in middle school. It involved a large amount of hours devoted to bettering other’s lives by volunteering at a number of local philanthropies. This time volunteering gave me useful experience interacting with different people, and I felt at home knowing I was making a difference in my community.

Last but not least, Youth and Government greatly shaped my future plans. It was a statewide model government program where teens interested in political science, debate and government policy could thrive. We practiced fine tuning our argument skills and deciding what issue area we wanted to be in, whether it was the courts, the legislative houses or others. It culminated in the spring when we headed out to Sacramento and debated in the actual houses of government!

Over my four years I was exposed to a number of diverse and interesting activities, each of them leaving a lasting impression. As I head on to the next chapter of my life, I know that I will always remember my high school years as being some of the best.

ROMANO’s rollercoaster ride by lindsey romano co–editor–in–chief You’re strapped in, and yet, there’s butterflies in your stomach. The machine ticks forward and begins its ascent. With every inch, the butterflies grow and before you know it, you’ve reached the top. Your cart drops and you are thrown through endless twists and turns.

This is the experience of a rollercoaster ride, but it is a perfect example of what high school has felt like.

I prepped meticulously for my first day, agonizing over my outfit (I’ve definitely come a long way as far as fashion goes) and wondering how scary it would be. It felt not unlike waiting in line for a rollercoaster (my nerves sure felt the same).

But then my freshman year — the rollercoaster ride — began. I entered my first journalism class and made some of my best friends, attended football games and homecoming and got intimidated by the pressure of high school classes.

Sophomore year rolled around, and I was starting to get the hang of it, the butterflies were subsiding. I took my first AP class and finally got to join Advanced Journalism (that class was so fun but so loud). And we reached the first of many unexpected turns: a series of devastations in our community followed by two weeks off of school. As scary as the time was, I learned a lot when it came to checking in on those I love.

Just when sophomore year seemed to twist my stomach in a knot, junior year began. I had

my first position as co–feature section editor, and the stress of junior year APs and the beginning of the college process kicked in. It was a year of stress and excitement. Then March 13 rolled around.

The end of my junior year was spent largely in fear. I wondered when I would be back to normal, but I was strapped in and there was no getting off now. My entire life switched online in an instant, but I made the most of it. The new school schedule meant more free time, I explored dance in a new way (try dancing with a blanket or a pillow, it’s harder than it looks) and I picked up many new hobbies, specifically many, many puzzles.

My senior year was spent in liberation, like the last stretch of the rollercoaster.

Senior year has been calm in many ways. With remote school, less interactions and many senior events taken away, this year has been a completely different pace. But on the other hand, I couldn’t imagine spending my senior year any other way. I made memories in unique ways I never thought possible and had more time than I planned to really think about where I want to spend my next four years.

So even though the rollercoaster ride of high school is nearly over, I look back at what have been some of the craziest but happiest four years of my life. In the chaos, time seems to go so fast as you fly through the twists and turns. But now, the ride is nearly over, and I see it so much clearer now. I see all the lifelong memories, and I know I would jump at the chance to ride again.

Here’s hoping for a college experience that is unlike any other, but maybe minus a global pandemic.

THOMPSON’s (not–so) tearful tribute by abigail thompson a&e section editor & co–web editor–in–chief

How do you sum up a slightly chaotic, long but also short, somewhat non–existent, wild ride of a high school career? You can’t really, though I’m going to try.

My high school experience was quite average at the start — I kicked off my freshman year walking into the wrong class on the first day. I was involved in choir and journalism at school, and, outside of my studies, I could be found taking classes at my dance studio each week, volunteering around the community for National Charity League or working hard at rehearsals for ballet or musical productions.

I might’ve developed senioritis within those first few months of my freshman year as well as an unhealthy obsession with college dorm tours on Youtube, but we won’t get too much in depth on that subject.

The point is that I had a very good idea of how my high school career would go, and right from the start, I was already thinking about my next academic adventure.

I regret that I didn’t take the time to fully absorb what I was experiencing in the present.

However, the COVID–19 pandemic was a wake up call, and although it was (and still is) a social drag, I am really grateful for the perspective it has given me: 1. Life is short, and I am busy. However, I’m never too busy to make time for those I love. I’ve spent this pandemic connecting and

reconnecting with friends and family that I hadn’t spoken to in a while, and I’ve learned to value the fact that they’re in my life at all and that I have the pleasure of knowing them.

2. The pandemic has opened my eyes to all that I’ve been missing while obsessing over a college experience that is yet to happen. It has reminded me that, one day, I will look back at my high school career and be glad that I didn’t spend its entirety only watching The Office and writing practice college essays.

3. Although the COVID–19 pandemic put a damper on the second half of my high school experience, I can’t help but notice all of the wonderful things it has given me. I now spend every Saturday with my friends at a backyard movie night, I have gotten to brush up on my piano skills and I’ve even become a dance teacher!

So yes, it makes me sad that I won’t get a traditional prom, graduation or grad night, that I can’t plan a trip to Europe after graduation and that I can still never seem to remember to grab my mask until I’ve turned out of my cul– de–sac, but I’ve dedicated the remainder of my time at home to using this as fuel for a better outlook on everything.

High school’s a mess, a crazy, wonderful (and sometimes virtual) mess that’s both terrifying and exhilarating at the same time.

However, in the end, I’m so grateful for every experience I’ve had at WHS. I can confidently say that I’m ready to conquer whatever college tries to throw at me, and without even watching any more YouTube videos!

6

SENIOR SUNSET

by margaret teegarden business manager

PHOTO BY LAUREN PAK PHOTO COURTESY OF JOSH LAVIN

PHOTO BY LINDSEY ROMANO

On May 22, seniors were honored with a Senior Sunset Celebration where they could gather safely at the WHS football stadium and spend much–needed time with one another after a year of distance learning.

Usually, a senior’s year would be full of activities to celebrate their last year at WHS, but this year was not the same.

“In a typical school year, seniors celebrate the end of the year with an off–campus senior picnic, Grad Nite at an amusement park and an off–campus prom,” said Assistant Principal of Activities Vicky Torossian. “This year, due to state, county and district protocols, WHS and our other CVUSD high schools were unfortunately not able to achieve these events.”

To make sure the activities were safe for the students, the Activities Committee had to work hard to provide a safe environment. Staff took students’ temperatures at the front gate, and once inside, students could not go back outside for added safety measures.

Considering many students were remote for the year, being able to see their friends and acquaintances again was a relief.

Additionally, the fencing around the stadium was covered with handmade posters including students’ names and the colleges they will be attending­to honor and celebrate all of the their hardwork these past four years.

“It was great to see my friends again after a year of online school,” said Caroline Yu ‘21.

“It was cool to see where everyone was going [to college].”

As a token of appreciation for the Class of 2021, free WHS blankets were given out to every senior who attended.

Also, many seniors enjoyed being able to celebrate their unique senior years in a more “normal” way, finally in–person instead of virtually. The celebration began with some awkward interactions (since it has been nearly a year since seeing one another), but students quickly warmed up and began enjoying the many activities, including a senior slideshow, valedictorian video, a photo and tattoo booth, Tommy’s Burger truck and more.

“The event was really nice,” said Joy Collins ‘21. “I liked how they had different games everywhere and a little tattoo area.”

Following the senior slideshow, which displayed students’ photos from their senior year, seniors were allowed to take down their college posters and take photos with friends.

Because many of the students had not seen each other in a long time, after the sunset celebration, several friend groups continued their hang out at places like BJ’s and Yogurtland.

As the end of the school year approaches, all that’s left for seniors are finals and graduation, which will be taking place in–person. For seniors, finals will be on June 3 and 4. Graduation will be on June 9. Seniors will be expected to report for the graduation ceremony at 3:45 p.m.

“I can’t wait for graduation and seeing everyone,” said Yu. “[It’s] going to be really bittersweet seeing everyone from middle school and high school for the last time.”

PHOTO BY LAUREN PAK

Sunset Celebration brings seniors together

GATHERINGS (top left): After receiving their free burgers, WHS students sit on their blankets, a gift to all seniors.

ENJOYING THE VIEW (top right): Isabella Sanner ‘21, Eleanor Mashkovich ‘21 and Isabella Launais ‘21 (left to right) savor their last moments as seniors.

COLLEGE POSTERS (bottom left): WHS students walk around to find their college posters, designed by ASG. CELEBRATING FRIENDS (bottom right): A group of seniors pose in front of one of the many photo spots provided.

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Check out The Arrow

7

ROOMMATE GUIDE

Senior snapshots As the WHS seniors prepare to graduate, they reflect on the last four years at WHS, offering advice to the underclassmen on how to make the most of their high school years.

“My biggest regret is psyching myself out a lot. My fear would stop me from going to events, meeting new people and forming

new connections.

Even if you think you won’t succeed, it is a great learning experience.”

– Jenna Lacoste

College roommate guide 101: How to find your new best friend commentary by kyra berg co–web editor–in–chief

“Make sure [the

underclassmen] take

the time to enjoy

where they are and

don’t always rush

through what is

happening. I was a

freshman like five minutes ago and now I am leaving for college in two months. Don’t always think about the future. Sometimes it is good to live in the present.”

– Celia Grant

“Get involved in a school program.

Whether it is choir, sports, theatre, a club, anything.

Anything that is involved at school, [underclassmen] should 100% become a part of.”

– Weston Ginoza “There are so many people at school that you are only friends with at school. I wish I

made the most out

of those relationships

and those times in class. I look back and wish I had more conversations with people and got to know them better.”

– Chloe Klaas PHOTO COURTESY OF CHLOE KLAAS

PHOTO COURTESY OF WESTON GINOZA

future school uses other social media apps like Facebook, Patio, Loopchat, Zeemee or Group Me, join those too. It may feel overwhelming, but taking steps to meet people now will make the transition into college less intimidating.

Knowing you have friends will make you more confident and excited for college to start.

Although there are many positive aspects of social media, be mindful of who you are talking to and always trust your instincts. Unfortunately, some people have poor intentions. Be smart and remember, you are allowed to block and ghost people. Do whatever it takes to stay safe and feel comfortable. Talk to your parents and friends to get advice too.

Besides using social media, several colleges offer a website where you can talk to potential roommates. For the University of Arizona, there was an undergraduate housing portal where I filled out a questionnaire and wrote a short bio about myself. I was able to look through other female Honors students’ questionnaire answers and bios. I could also message them. I had an ID number to stay anonymous and introduced myself in my messages. It was a great tool to meet new people and make friends.

I found my roommate on Instagram. I saw her post on an Arizona Instagram page and reached out. We had lots in common and started talking all the time. About two months later, I was confident that I wanted us to be roommates.

We FaceTimed, and it just fell into place.

It is a relief to be done with the roommate search, but I am happy I did it my way. I did not pressure myself to pick someone right after committing, and I turned some people down.

It was stressful and felt like a full–time job.

Unfortunately, I did not get paid. But, my hard work was worth it.

I know this sounds cheesy, but trust the process. If there is anything you should take away from this, remember to be patient with yourself, and trust your judgment. After talking to many prospective roommates, you will have a gut instinct of who you want to pick. You got this.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CELIA GRANT

The summer before senior year, I spent my days researching colleges. I watched virtual tours, spent hours on college websites and even made spreadsheets to compare schools. It was intense.

I looked into schools known for being social and fun. I wanted a school with a journalism major and a strong Honors college.

I also wanted to move out of California. I found a school that checked off all of my boxes. I committed to the University of Arizona in August but knew the stress was not over yet. It was just the beginning.

Since many people only talk about admissions stress, I am here to tell you about ROOMMATE stress. You are welcome current freshmen, sophomores and juniors.

If you are brave enough to get randomly paired with a roommate, I am impressed. Go for it! For the rest of you who want to pick your roommate, get ready for a long few weeks or months. Finding a roommate takes lots of time, motivation and effort. As a student who survived this process and now has a roommate, I am here to help you navigate this journey.

Before I get into all the things you should do, here are some things you want to avoid. Do not pressure anyone into being your roommate before getting to know them. I got DMs from people asking me to be their roommate before I even knew their name. It was weird. Please also PICK a college before looking for roommates or suitemates. It is rude to lead people on when you have no idea where you are going. Just commit to a school first.

Now that I got that covered, I would recommend getting on Instagram and Snapchat. Even if you do not like social media, using these apps will make it much easier to meet new people. On Instagram, follow all of the freshman class pages. Current students at the school or incoming students run the

accounts. Most schools have multiple accounts that you can DM, and they will post the photos and bio you submit. Some Instagram accounts will feature you for free, but others may cost you a few dollars. If an account will let you skip the line for $5 to get posted immediately, do it.

Waiting a few months to get posted for free is not worth it.

Before sending in a DM, make sure that your bio is authentic. Trying to be someone else is not fair to you or anyone else. There is no right or wrong. Take off the pressure, write a few things about yourself and pick photos of yourself that you like. Don’t overthink it.

Be yourself, and own it. Going off of that, using photos of you partying or wearing something revealing may not be in your best interest. But if that is how you want to portray yourself, then you do you.

Along with getting featured on pages, stay current on who else is getting posted. If you have something in common with another person, reach out to them. If they ignore you, that is their problem — there are plenty of other students.

Many people will be thrilled to get a DM from you! When you reach out, introduce yourself, say what social media platform you saw them on, what you have in common and say that you would love to get to know them. It is that easy.

In the beginning, it may seem scary, but over time it will feel natural. If you do not know where to start, I recommend asking each person you are talking to some simple questions: where are you from, what are you majoring in, where are you planning to live (dorm/apartment), what do you like to do for fun, are you thinking about rushing and do you have any friends going to the school too? The conversation will hopefully flow after.

You should also join the Instagram and Snapchat group chats. Your notifications will be out of control, but you will meet people.

Use a group chat to start making connections.

Consider reaching out to some people from each group chat individually too. If your

“I wish I went out and

hung out with my

friends more. The

time just flies by so

fast. The years just pass

by, and there is so

much time wasted

that you could be going out with friends, having fun [and] going to the beach. You should still have fun [junior year] even though it is supposedly the hardest year for school.”

– Zack Howard PHOTO COURTESY OF ZACk HOWARD

GRAPHIC BY KYRA BERG

PHOTO COURTESY OF JENNA LACOSTE

GRAPHIC BY ALYSSA RICE

10

SPORTS

WHS student athletes journey into college

High school sports are known to take time and dedication, and these 12 WHS student athletes have decided to take their sport to the next level.

Arielle Hayon

Swimming – Rice University PHOTO COURTESY OF ARIELLE HAYON

PHOTO COURTESY OF OLIVER STEELE

PHOTO COURTESY OF SOPHIA SCHALK

Oliver Steele

Baseball – University of New Mexico

Why are you playing baseball in college?

“It has always been my dream to play big league baseball. My favorite team is the Yankees, and I would always watch them on television. I would just be really inspired [watching them play] and this is the next step after high school. It is definitely a dream come true to play baseball in college, especially to go D1. It’s crazy.”

Where are you going to college?

Why were you interested in this school?

“Honestly, I’m really grateful that those two other schools told me that they couldn’t support my application anymore because I would have probably never come across Rice if that didn’t happen to me. Rice felt like home to me, and I had a gut feeling that I belonged there.”

Sophia Schalk

Rowing – University of Texas

Anderson Macdonald Lacrosse – College of Wooster

Where are you going to college? Why were you interested in this school?

“I got interested in The College of Wooster because I was talking to a few other schools in their conference, and I scrolled with my mom through different schools that were at the D3 level in the area, and I just happened to be interested in Wooster. I guess [its] coach was the main driving factor. I picked the school because of the program he’s building there. I chose D3 because they really focus on student athletes, and education comes first at the D3 level. You can get a great education and still play sports, and it’s more of a balance compared to D1 and D2.”

“You have to focus a lot on discipline ...

When you are not motivated, you have to force yourself to do things so you will get motivated. That is what it is all about, looking at the end goal when you start things.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF KYLIE CHUNG

PHOTO COURTESY OF CAROLINE OATES

PHOTO COURTESY OF ANDERSON MACDONALD

What is your advice about sports?

Kyle Chambers

Caroline Oates

Why did you choose to play your water polo in college?

“Around last October, I got to go out and see the schools, and I saw Bucknell. I really loved the campus. I got to see the pool, and it was gorgeous. After my senior game at WHS, I was so sad imagining not playing water polo ever again, so now I’m so glad that I have an extra four years to go out and play.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF KYLE CHAMBERS

Water Polo – Wagner College

Water Polo – Bucknell University

What are you looking to do in the future in your career?

“In the future, I am looking to be a therapist or maybe a sports psychologist because when I play sports, when I mess up or [when I] do something, [it] affects the team in a big way. If it’s bad, then I get in my own head, and I start overthinking things. It can really bring you down during a game, so I want to be able to [help] athletes talk through their mental blocks or maybe just be a therapist and just talk to people about their issues [by asking myself] how I can help them, or how I can be an escape for them from the real world.“

Kylie Chung

Softball – Stanford University

What are you looking to do in the future in your career?

“I’m going in undecided. I know that getting a degree from there is really big in setting me up for the rest of life, but I don’t know [my major]. I really want to impact other people’s lives, and I’m not sure how I’m going to do that yet, but that’s what I want to do.”

Daryn Siegel

Ja’seem Reed

Softball – UCSB

Why did you choose to play your sport in college?

“My dad played professional baseball.

Growing up, I always knew I wanted to be like him and play softball. My grades are pretty average, so I knew it would be a good tool to get me into the school I wanted to go to. I just love softball, so I want to keep doing it.”

Nate Rosen

PHOTO COURTESY OF JA’SEEM REED

PHOTO COURTESY OF DARYN SIEGEL

PHOTO COURTESY OF PAIGE SOMMERS

Paige Sommers

Football – University of San Diego

What is your advice about sports?

“The one piece of advice I would give is that you can do anything you put your mind to, but with that has to come hard work and dedication. If you are willing to do that, you can do anything you want in this world.”

Jack Johnson

Baseball – Baylor University

What is your advice about sports?

Where are you going to college? Why were you interested in this school?

What are you looking to do in the future in your career?

“It’d probably be to never stop trying because if you hit a bad spot within the sport, you can find ways around it. That’s important especially to pole vaulting. There are a lot of challenges that come [such as a mental block], but you just kind of have to push through it and find different ways to manage it.”

“I am going to Kenyon College. This school really interested me because they have great academics as well as getting to play baseball. I really liked the conversations I had with the coach and visiting the campus as well. It was the best overall fit for me.”

“I hope to be able to play baseball as long as possible. Obviously with any sport, time is a factor, and you are not guaranteed to play forever. I am going to study business at Baylor, and hopefully, I will be able to continue to be involved in sports after I graduate. Whether it is playing or working in sports, that is where I want to be.”

PHOTO BY ABBY THOMPSON

Baseball – Kenyon College PHOTO COURTESY OF NATE ROSEN

Track – Duke University

Compiled by Owen Kobett & Alyssa Rice

11

SENIOR FAVORITES

Senior favorites!

Favorite radio song: 32.8%

“Good Days”

by SZA

31.3%

“Save Your Tears”

by The Weekend

Favorite TV series: 29.9%

12.9% Grey’s Anatomy

“Montero (Call Me 20.9% By Your Name)”

by Lil Nas X

15%

The Office

Other

8%

Friends

49.2%

Other

Favorite place to eat: Chick-fil-A

41%

“Sheeeeesh”

18.9%

Chipotle

29.3%

“Sus”

10.9%

East Coast Bagels

14.1%

“It’s bussin, respectfully”

13%

Other

15.6%

Other

Favorite teacher:

Mrs. Boyd

Prom

Tie: Ms. Dale and Mr. Freed

208 seniors surveyed

3) 3)

PHOTO COURTESY OF DOUG FREED

Grad Nite/senior trip to Disneyland

2)

PHOTO BY OLIVIA DELGROSSO

Mr. Holloway

1)

PHOTO COURTESY OF EMILY DALE

Winning senior year rallies

PHOTOS COURTESY OF PUBLIC DOMAIN

57.2%

PHOTO BY OLIVIA DELGROSSO

Favorite memory that never happened:

Favorite phrase:

Compiled by Abigail Thompson

14

SENIOR WILLS A

To the Class of 2021:

I, Campbell Davidson, of smiley mind and cheer body, will my cheer kicks, stunting skills and dance moves to Megan Zide, and my detailed homework answers and footnotes to Jack Davidson.

I, Dominik Davila, of strong mind and capable body, will to accomplish anything I set myself to do in the future.

I, Hailey Davis, of strange mind and short body, will my ability to laugh at failures and to encourage myself from successes.

I, Bridgette Diaz, of spiritual mind and calm body, will to preserve, love and protect all because I was created to do so.

E I, Cameron Eickhoff, of epic gamer mind and Dorito body, will the swim team distance group to Jackson Williams and Julia Erwin, the knowledge of how to correctly reel lane lines to TJ Vels and Tim Shen, the remainder of my polo–swim hybrid energy to Josh Brown and Austin Majus and my electric pink tech suit to Jackson Williams.

I, Celeste Elkort, of determined mind and weary body, will my incurable case of senioritis to Charisse Chua.

H I, Sebastien Harrison, of massive mind and skinny body, will my vague understanding of physics to Sean Jung.

I, Luke Hiday, of pristine mind and graceful body, will my dye toss to Gabe and Patrick.

I, Julianne Hua, of questionable mind and minuscule body, will my collection of mothers to Vanessa Pare and Jessie Gereige.

J

I, Aminah Jamal, of open mind and strong body, will my perseverance and grit to the

Seniors of WHS

K I, Sam Kadaba, of eccentric mind and short (but sweet) body, will my zipper binder and Crocs to Abhinav Pomalapally.

I, Ethan Kao, of big mind and small body, will the language center to Arwen Louie.

I, Maxwell Kearney, of slagged mind and tired body, will to attempt to sleep properly for once.

I, Sanya Khattar, of dazed mind and flimsy body, will my AP Calculus score to Kaylee Yang, my 2 a.m. clown hours to Rachel and Randy Xu and my perseverance through the turbulence of college admissions to Soumya Monga.

I, Ryan King, of brilliant mind and long body, will to challenge youngins to care about the environment.

I, Ema Kirksey, of peaceful mind and rockin’ body, will my daily choice of slippers, my free–spirited energy and my ability to never get stressed to Lily Kirksey, Addision Donati, Ximena Gomez and Amy Kirksey.

I, Owen Kobett, of creative mind and speedy body, will my leadership of the Cross Country team to Ben Hefner, KC Barber and Sophie Atkins, my enjoyment of funny and nerdy memes to Carter Cox and Richard Hoffmann and my passion for journalism to Allan Tieu and Alyssa Rice.

I, Hunter Koenen, of able mind and large body, will to try my hardest to make my future bright.

I, Kendall Kraft, of anxious mind and weak body, will my inability to make a decision to Jamison Farris.

I, Molly Kreitman, of creative mind and plump

OF

OF

– Kaitlyn Bateman

E PH OTOGRAPHY CO

body, will that aliens will finally come down to earth and wow us with their mind control.

L I, Isabella Lake, of feeble mind and feebler body, will my Decathlete–corralling abilities to Emma Fishman and my tattered AP Literature books to Jenny Liu. I, Isabella Launais, of intelligent mind and athletic body, will my intelligence skills and swimming abilities to Alexandra Launais.

I, Songhee Lee, of optimistic mind and bone– cracking body, will my amazing tutoring skills to Jasmine Xu and Emmy Adler, my ability to procrastinate writing editorials to Soumya Monga and Angela Ling and my wise and humble mind to Yumin Kim. I, Alex Lim, of exhausted mind and half– living body, will 01000110 01001001 01001110 01000100 00100000 01000001 00100000 01001000 01001111 01000010 01000010 01011001 to future coding students drinking Peet’s coffee to get them through the long nights.

I, Noah Lunn, of ambiguous mind and certain body, will my student store debt to the future generations of Westlake High School. 123 no trade–backs.

M I, Jonathan Macias, of inspiring mind and immaculate body, will my social skills to take off in college.

I, Talia Marx, of chaotic mind and tall body, will to tell the underclassman that George kills Lenny, Macbeth dies, Hamlet dies, Gatsby dies and Darcy marries Elizabeth.

I, Sam Mazzuca, of interesting mind and tall body, will my hope for the near future.

I, Griffin Minor, of intuitive mind and slim thicc body, will the release of taking things personally and the practice of gratitude.

I, Antoine Moats, of one mind and multiple bodies, will my rat tail to the great Allan Tieu.

“I would say that mom has given me the best advice throughout my life. Specifically, I remember her telling that one must truly be themself.”

– Eugene Larson

EU GENE LARSON

KAI N TLYN BATEMA

“I would say my mom has given me the best advice. I don’t quite remember word for word what she said, [but] she encourages me to follow my passions as hard as ES RT possible. ” U O

workload and set of challenges yet to come.

I, Ethan Javid, of high mind and perfect body, will to go crazy in any future endeavors.

I, Hannah Jun, of affectionate mind and healthy body, will my first chair flute to Jason Lee as it will give you a lot of confidence, and my class notes to Rachel Sherrill as my notes are the neatest.

I, Sean Jung, of tired mind and tired body, will my napping powers to Kyle Ashamallah.

F YO

Q: Who has given you the best advice, and what did they say?

ES RT OU

Y

Y

OC PHOT

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S RTE PHOTO COU

D

C I, Joey Cacciarelli, of elastic mind and lanky body, will a tidal wave of enthusiasm upon the future graduating classes.

I, Madelyn Campana, of open mind and tall body, will my impressive geo–guessing skills to those yet to come.

I, Vincent Candela, of godly mind and shredded body, will to devote my life to kingly actions.

I, Ellie Carta, of fabulous mind and average body, will my excellent study skills and awesome parking ability.

I, Paris Chang, of good mind and groovy body, will my swaggy dance moves to Savannah Arevalo and Paris Gill.

I, Katelyn Chen, of discombobulated mind and accident prone and deteriorating body, will my love of Krispy Kreme donut deals to Allan Tieu, my blue hair to Delaney Vega and my adoration for Timothee Chalamet to me, myself and I. I, Lily Chen, of scattered mind and weary body, will to astral project all my remaining high school survival skills onto the underclassmen.

I, Emily Chow, of unbalanced mind and poor–postured body, will the apparition of my presence to Jasmine Xu and Kaylee Yang.

I, Joy Collins, of curious mind and slightly above average height body, will the powers of God and anime by my side to overcome any opposition.

R NE RS

Ivy Schlosser Senior Class President

MA LL DELYN PANNE

I, Charlotte Barnett, of dauntless mind and strong body, will my hope and wisdom to the younger classmen who deserve to see the power and potential we see in them.

I, Addison Barton, of dazzling mind and crazy body, will my superstar grades and fame to my sweeties Addison Donati and Lily Kirksey.

I, Kyra Berg, of stressed mind and strong body, will my bomb dance advice and song recommendations to Anya Alksnina.

I, Claudia Bertagna, of wandering mind and clumsy body, will my musical abilities and ideal finness to the children as they embark on their journey through immature adulthood.

I, Ajay Bhargava, of colossal mind and Zion– esque body, will my elite driving skills to Abhinav Pomalapally and my pet alpaca to Saivee Ahuja.

I, Jillian Boser, of inquisitive mind and plant–based body, will my ability to succeed in the future.

OC PHOT

OF

B

Congratulations! We made it to the end of a relentlessly challenging senior year.

Our high school experience has tested each of us more than any class before. Together and apart, we persevered through four years of ups and downs. We have built lasting friendships and been made better by teachers who have supported us through each step of high school. We leave this community, not just older, but wiser and ready to take on the next chapter. As we prepare to leave WHS, we carry with us the strength our experiences have instilled in all of us. It was an honor serving as your senior class president. I know the future is bright for all of us!

S TE UR O C

Y

I, Cecilia Alamillo, of strong mind and tired body, will my ability to make it through whatever life throws at me.

I, Samantha Altounian, of brilliant mind and 5’4” body, will to do my best to always make people smile.

O PHOT

“My mom has given me the best advice, and that is to always remember to smile and treat everyday like it’s your last!”

– Madelyn Pannell

15

SENIOR WILLS N I, Payton Nekovar, of spectacular mind and amazing body, will my creativity and kindness to all the challenges of the future.

I, Jessie Nial, of overworked mind and vertically challenged body, will my leadership skills and ability to pull all–nighters to Victoria Dority and Saivee Ahuja.

I, Ashley Novelo, of big brain mind and short body, will my indecisiveness to Madison Louie, my intelligence to Oliver Previde and my curiosity to Kenneth Farfan.

O I, Maeve O’Connor, of whimsical mind and lanky body, will my Harry Potter obsession to Allan Tieu and Jillian Beer.

P I, Lauren Pak, of innovative mind and restless body, will my mole enchiladas to Bronwen Guy and my brutally honest story critiques and superb stylebook expertise to Angela Ling and Soumya Monga.

I, Madelyn Pannell, of intelligent mind and short body, will Hailey Valladares, Sofia Startz and Megan Zide my school notes and intelligence.

I, Emily Posner, of cheery mind and kind body, will my hard work and motivation.

I, Nisha Prahsittipab, of chaotic mind and exhausted body, will my outstanding procrastination skills, inconsistent work ethic and extreme sleep deprivation to Elisa Coccioli, Nour Rayes and Archit Goyal.

R

I, Sruthi Rangarajan, of brilliant mind and short body, will my amazing CS skills to Sanajana Chandrasekar.

I, Sophie Robson, of contented mind and ailing body, will my journalism skills and lack thereof to Allan Tieu.

I, Quinci Rocca, will the pencil I dropped on the floor in geometry to Presley Davis.

I, Lindsey Romano, of chaotic mind and awkward body, will my extreme column aligning skills to Angela Ling and Soumya Monga and my daily chores to Ryan Romano.

S I, Caitlyn San, of late–to–English–everyday mind and cheese–full body, will my correct fried rice opinions to Randy Xu, my job and advice against taking Physics 2 to Saivee and scioly medals that I never got the chance to give to Robert Liu. I, Joaquin Sanchez, of intelligent mind and 5’11” body, will my big brain to every challenge that is yet to come.

I, Olivia Sanner, of over–complicated mind and stressed body, will my yearbook knowledge to Saivee Ahuja and Victoria Dority.

I, Matty Schwartz, of indecisive mind and shlumped body, will full custody of the box to Dylan Robinson and Soumya Monga, my pessimistic overconfidence to Aviv Stabinsky and my ability to be normal to Roman Walker and Luke Jones.

I, Ivy Schlosser, of superior mind and vertically challenged body, will my pile of WHS parking tickets to Mia Schlosser, my infamous ASG TikToks to Alison Steckel and my spot–on left bench to Kelsey Farhit.

I, Luke Severino, of of laid–back mind and strong body, will to be the best I can be.

I, Bella Shahidi, of spirited mind and muscular

body, will my strength for cheer conditioning to Katie Tasker.

I, Jerry Shi, of lugubrious mind and energetic body, will my op music taste, big body post moves and kick serves to Abhi Pomalapally and Abhi Nandury.

I, Jeremy Shiu, of unstable mind and unfortunate body, will my work ethic to my little brother Joshua.

I, Ruby Sirota–Foster, of overthinking mind and sore body, will my useful procrastinating skills to Arlo and Micky Sirota–Foster, my love for running to the entire XC team and my hummingbird fascination to Mrs. Boyd.

I, Mackenzie Smith, of British mind and American body, advise all underclassmen to take advantage of the moments you have because you never know when the next pandemic will hit.

I, Amy Song, of try–hard mind and caffeinated body, will my knowledge of tangents to Abhinav Pomalapally, my slight coffee addiction to Avrey Tokuyama, the constant Science Olympiad cramming to Yumin Kim, my emoji overwhelming @whsasg captions to Jillian Beer and Sammy Wildman and lacrosse field naps to Ava Garaway, Catherine Xu, Jennifer Quintero and Anjelly Cruz.

I, Emily Steckel, of dyslexic mind and superb body, will my golf miniskirts and excellent parking jobs to Alison Steckel.

I, Connor Udolph, of huge mind and swole body, will my outside shot and lefty ripper to the WHS lacrosse underclassmen.

T

I, Cindy Zhang, of apologetic mind and full–of– back problems body, will my K–Pop fangirling, impeccable music taste and amazing driving skills to Rachel Sherill, my obsession with 2D men to Kate Chier, my uncontrollable boba intake to Kyra Victor and my top–notch doubles skills to Abby Flamer.

I, Mathew Zilberman, of big brain mind and muscular body, will my Soundtrap music skills to Brendan Faulkner.

I, Margaret Teegarden, of valuable mind and meaningful body, will my power to those who feel like they cannot go on another day.

I, Abigail Thompson, of creative mind and nimble body, will my habitual overthinking and impressive DJ skills to Lilly Thompson.

U

V I, Elina Vaidya, of crazy mind and tired body, will Coach’s unsafe driving habits to Abby Flamer, Anisa Vaidya and Kyra Victor.

I, Emma Victor, of indecisive mind and ungainly body, will my superb procrastination skills, Coach’s preoccupied driving methods and my indifference towards most matters of importance to Rachel Sherrill, Kyra Victor, Abby Flamer, Anisa Vaidya, Kaylynn Winter, Stella Chudleigh and Kate Chier.

I, Danielle Villari, of sans kinny mind and catgirl body, will my mediocre drumming skills, annoying dolphin laugh and undying love for Eren Yeager (seasons 1–3) to Faif, Charlie, Jackson and the dew bois.

Y I, Jennifer Yin, of preoccupied mind and penniless body, will my procrastination skills to all your worst enemies.

Z

Compiled by Songhee Lee

T UR

– Sebastien Harrison

AD A B A

KHATTAR

SAM K

SAN YA

OF

OF

ES RT OU C O PHOT

Y

OF

ES Y

P

O OC HOT

“I’m not sure exactly what I’ll be doing in 10 years. I want to use my college years to explore different fields and find some that I’m interested in.”

S

“In 10 years, I see myself creating products for the haptic technology industry, continuing work as an artist and hopefully just happy.”

Y

“In 10 years, I hope to have finished my college degree in chemistry with either a bachelors or masters and have a job involved with chemical research or pharmacology.”

I SO RR SEBASTIEN HA

N

Seniors of WHS

Q: Where do you imagine yourself in 10 years?

– Sanya Khattar

OC PHOT

E RT OU

– Sam Kadaba

Q: What is your biggest instance of senioritis?

RT OU

– Jerry Shi

SAI VE

E AHUJA

R ELLA SANNE

ES RT OU C O PHOT

Y

Y

ES RT OU C O PHOT

OF

ISA B OF

JE R

OF

Y

OC PHOT

“I once joined an Art History Zoom call while I was driving to Popeye’s.”

“My biggest instance of senioritis is that I am a huge procrastinator on all my assignments and [that I] do them all last minute [while] I get coffee constantly.”

RY SHI

“Senioritis definitely hit this year, especially with the addition of the online environment.

There were times where the Santa Ana winds caused power outages and attending school was difficult.”

ES

– Isabella Sanner

– Arjun Gutta

Compiled by Nadia Grdodian & Songhee Lee

16

ASG SENIORS

Congratulations ASG Seniors!

Class of 2021

Eddie Nash UCLA

Isabella Shahidi UC Berkeley

Not pictured: Liliana Rodriguez – Cal State San Marcos, Iverson Hernandez Rodriguez

PHOTO COURTSEY OF EMILY STECKEL

PHOTO COURTSEY OF ISABELLA SHAHIDI

PHOTO COURTSEY OF AMY SONG

Amy Song UC Berkeley

PHOTO COURTSEY OF EDDIE NASH

Lauren Mareno Moorpark College

PHOTO COURTSEY OF IVY SCHLOSSER

Ivy Schlosser UC Davis

Celeste Elkort UCLA

PHOTO COURTSEY OF LAUREN MARENO

PHOTO COURTSEY OF ZAHAMIT KISSOON

Zahamit Kissoon Ventura College

PHOTO COURTSEY OF CELESTE ELKORT

PHOTO COURTSEY OF COOPER CLEMONS

PHOTO COURTSEY OF JOEY CACCIARELLI

Cooper Clemons Moorpark College

Joey Cacciarelli Pitzer College

Emily Steckel

University of Tennessee, Knoxville

Compiled by Allan Tieu