Issuu

BLUEPRINTS GRANVILLE HIGH SCHOOL • GRANVILLE, OHIO • MAY 2017 • VOL. 7 ISSUE 5

The Senior Edition Class of 2017

Inside:

Is “13 Reasons Why” a dangerous influence for students? Choosing the Gap Year 10 grads, 10 years later blueprintsonline.org

Letter from the Editor

BLUEPRINTS STAFF

editor in chief Anna Minton

management editor Morgan Prachar

news editor Hannah Dear

sports editor Justin Thompson

opinion editor Carsten Savage

t has been a pleasure to work with the creative and hardworking BluePrints staff for the past 3 years. I am proud of our high school journalism program that has consistently strived to be unbiased and insightful. Granville’s journalism program has not only developed our staff’s basic writing, reporting, coding and design/layout skill sets; we have also consistently promoted problem solving, flexibility and team work. It has been an important goal that the BluePrints staff foster an environment of independence, responsibility and has encouraged the expression of all opinions. While the administration plays a significant part in making GHS an open community, it is important to acknowledge our adviser who supervises our publication. Mrs. Amy Tolbert supports our program with knowledge, guidance, accountability and fun. She encourages the staff to operate in an autonomous manner to ensure our development both professionally and personally. She has always nurtured our creativity and has valued our ideas, no matter how eccentric they may be. And then there is there is the school and students themselves. I’m sure we all would agree that Granville High School is a community like no other. The amount of opportunities for our student involvement is vast. There are so many different clubs, teams and activities that it is mind-boggling. I assure you that our school is an abundant source for amazing stories to tell. Over the years, I cannot think of a

(BluePrints Photo/Megan Coffey)

time we had nothing to report or write. Each person and event in this school is interesting and deserves to be heard. It is obvious that Granville High School’s student body not only aspires to achieve great things, but more importantly, they have the capability to truly make a difference in this world. Although I know we were only able to tap just the tip of the iceberg of your stories, I am personally grateful for the privilege to produce many of your amazing tales. So as finals are completed and things are wrapped up for 2016-2017, all of the staff at BluePrints would like to thank you for another successful year. No matter where our next steps may take us, we would like to thank you for allowing us the opportunity to tell your stories, and for making an impact on our GHS community. As always, all of us here at BluePrints would love to hear what you think and learn of any recommendations for improvement. Please drop us an email at ghsblueprints@gmail.com. Or, talk to us through one of our social media sites. You can follow us on Instagram, @granvilleblueprints; Facebook at GHS Blueprints; or on Twitter, @GHSBluePrints.

entertainment editor Emma Naille

features editor Daniel Brnjic

social media editor Megan Coffey

photography editor Dustin Braden

staff

Sydney Bednarski Ashlyn Brockway Mackenzie Chesrown Sam Dunham Mackenna Finley Jordan Gummere Karissa Harris Ava Kunar Lexi Marelli Hannah Musick Jake Purdy Elijah Smith Chris Volzke Riley Vradenburg Cortez Yannie

adviser Mrs. Amy Tolbert

online

blueprintsonline.org

GHS BluePrints GHSBluePrints @granvilleblueprints @ghsblueprints

2 May 2017

CONTENTS BLUEPRINTS • MAY 2017

OPINION

4 Is “13 Reasons Why” a dangerous influence on students? 5 The art of college recomendations 5 Implications of President Trump’s foreign policy 5 Prom tickets prices must be revised

NEWS 6 Teachers move on to new ventures 6 Underclassmen aid in the beginning of new clubs 7 Energy-saving motion sensors invade the school 7 Youth Leadership Council serves in Licking County

SPORTS

8 Tennis team concludes another successful season 8 Softball team hits for power while sustaining success 9 Girls’ lacrosse steps up to the challenge against stout competition

FEATURES

10 Choosing the gap year 11 Time to “Bon Voyage” as students prepare to study abroad 12 10 grads, 10 years later 18 Try to spot the differences 19 Last words

ENTERTAINMENT 20 Dreaming of summer ON OUR COVER

Is “13 Reasons Why a dangerous influence on students? 4 Choosing the gap year 10 10 grads, 10 years later 12

blueprintsonline.org

Opinion

Is “13 Reasons Why” a dangerous influence on students? BY MORGAN PRACHAR (‘17) he newest Netflix craze is “13 Reasons Why” but people are missing the true dangers of the show. Many teens across the country are binge-watching this show, but many are missing the true dangers the show can hold. The series follows the conversation of rape, self-harm and suicide within the thirteen episodes. The show holds many dangers, first being the graphic display of self-harm and suicide. For those who have battled mental illnesses, seeing the graphic reality can be extremely triggering. The series does not hide any detail of Hannah Baker’s suicide. Although a couple episodes do include trigger warnings before the episode begins, no one is ever truly prepared for the graphic detail they share. Other episodes do not include a trigger warning but still include graphic scenes of self-harm. Secondly, the show describes the cause of Hannah Baker’s suicide was bullying. Although bullying can contribute to a suicide, mental illness can be another factor. The show never talks about the chance of mental illness being a factor. The series illustrates that suicide is the answer to escape the bad in someone’s life, and not ways to get help before it reaches that point. Overall, “13 Reasons Why” includes many dangerous scenes, and each person may react differently when watching, but the graphic scenes of self-harm and suicide are not depicted correctly according to many mental health advisers. For many viewers the show can trigger thoughts and cause mental harm. The Hollywood series advertises that suicide is the only answer to escape problems when help is always available to those who need it. “13 Reasons Why” does not show that it’s okay to ask for help but instead that hiding feelings is okay until it is too late. For young viewers who may look up to Katherine Langford, seeing someone whom they look up to commit suicide may cause questions or ideas to rise in their minds. Those watching “13 Reasons Why” should watch with caution. The series is graphic, triggering and dangerous to those suffering from mental illness and for those who aren’t.

BY LEXI MARELLI (‘18) here has been a lot of talk surrounding the Netflix original series “13 Reasons Why” based on the novel by Jay Asher. The show has a lot of mature and vivid content including rape and suicide. These scenes are included to show the severity of the issue of suicide, and the reasons it can happen. Sugar coating these events would not have had the same effect on viewers as it did the way they were. I do not think this series is a “guide to suicide” as most parents are saying it is. They believe that the gruesome scene of Hannah slitting her wrists is “showing kids how to kill themselves.” That is one way to view it; however, I think it brings awareness to the issues of suicide and bullying and teaches high school kids how not to act towards others, teaching them to avoid suicide. Whether parents realize it or not, some of the things that happen to Hannah Baker in the show are happening in schools. Things like gossiping, note passing and name calling all happen in high schools. It is simply naïve for people to think that they aren’t. It is better to address the situation head-on and have kids learn from the example set by the characters on the show, than shelter kids from real issues. This kind of awareness could even save a child’s life. Knowing the warning signs is a great way to be educated about suicide prevention. “13 Reasons Why” can either be viewed as a danger to students or a tool for them to help themselves, and it would be a shame to take away awareness of such a serious issue.

Yes

4 May 2017

EDITORIAL POLICY BluePrints, Granville High School’s newsmagazine, is published by students in Journalism. As a forum of student expression, the goal of BluePrints is to provide the high school students’ perspective on relevant issues concerning the school, the community and the world. Editorial decisions are based on timeliness, relevance and appropriateness. Opinions expressed in the newspaper are not necessarily that of the entire staff, student body or school. Letters to the editor will be published as space allows. BluePrints does accept advertisements; however, the staff reserves the right to withdraw ads.

The art of college recommendations

etters of recommendation are an incredibly important component of a college application. Although a bad recommendation is usually not the deciding factor that sentences a student to rejection, applicants must be careful about whom to ask for a recommendation and the way in which they go about doing it. THE SAVAGE’S Which teachers should we ask, and how? JUDGMENT We should ask for recommendations from our junior year teachers. Since we have finished these teachers’ classes, they have seen us grow academically throughout the year. We may have struggled in their classes in the beginning of the year, but by the end we have reached our potential and have succeeded. If we ask our senior teachers for recommendations, we must keep in mind that they have only seen us during our ‘struggling’ phase. In addition, we may not have formed the personal connections with these teachers by the time we need recommendations. For Early Decision 1 and Early Action candidates, who must usually turn in applications around Nov. 1, it is best to ask teachers for recommendations in September or the beginning of October. If we ask for them the May of our junior year—expecting that teachers will do them over the summer—teachers may forget about the recommendations completely or will save them until school starts in Autumn. Early Decision II and Regular

Decision applicants, whose deadline is usually Jan. 1, can ask for recommendations up until December (teachers are usually busy in December with midterms and holiday break). Even if Early Decision II and Regular Decision students ask for recommendations in May of their junior year, however, Early Decision I and Early Action students will often be prioritized The recommendation form must be filled out to the fullest extent possible. Junior year teachers may have forgotten the activities in which we participate, our personalities or our performance in their class. Thus, we must make sure to give teachers as much information as possible on the form so that they can write the most fleshed-out recommendations possible that comprehensively explain our abilities as students. Thanking teachers for recommendations is an essentiality, but how should we do so? A simple “thank you” will suffice upon confirmation that a teacher will do the recommendation; I would not recommend giving them a “thank you” gift before they have written the recommendation, as this suggests that it can be ‘bought.’ Once the teacher has finished the recommendation, however, a card or gift is completely appropriate. Letters of recommendation can make wonderful assets for college applications, but asking for them can be tricky. We must be courteous, and we must always remember that they are sacrificing their time for our sake. There is nothing more that you could ever ask for from a teacher.

blueprintsonline.org

News

Teachers move on to new ventures BY CORTEZ YANNIE (‘17) his upcoming school year we will be losing two highly regarded faculty members. Ann Gilsdorf, who is one of the school counselors, and Christine Quinter, who is one of the geometry teachers, will both be leaving the school after this school year. Gilsdorf is leaving because she recently had a son, and wants to spend time with him. Although she is leaving she will be missing the students she helped and talked to through her time. “I love the students here, but I love my kid more. I just want to be there for him while he’s at this young age,” said Gilsdorf. Although she will be leaving, she still will be doing some type of guidance work on the side.

“ You will see me once in awhile students here, but I also love my son more, running around the school during testing that’s why I have to go,” said Gilsdorf. weeks” said Gilsdorf. Quinter will be leaving to pursue computer science and new adventures outside of teaching. “I have a friend who does coding, and has offered to help me with pursuing this,” said Quinter. Both these facility members love the students here, but want to participate in different aspects of life and Math teacher Christine Quinter and school counselor Ann Gilsfamily activities. dorf move on to new adventures after this school year. (Blue“I really love the Prints Photo/Dustin Braden)

Underclassmen aid in the beginning of new clubs BY AVA KUNAR (‘18) hough the school year is coming to a close, new clubs are emerging left and right. Two new clubs, specifically, are being introduced to the student body: The Book Club and The Fishing Club. The Book Club that has recently started at school can be attributed freshmen Anna Mialky and Tori Bergstrom. “We love to read and discuss books with our friends,” Mialky said. Mialky and Bergstrom explained that they started the club in March of this year. “Yeah, there was a book club in middle school so we thought ‘Oh, we should do this in high school too,’” Bergstrom said. They explained that when they first entered high school they forgot about their book club idea, but by this time of year they remembered what they wanted to do and got the ball rolling. Librarian Sally Gummere helped them get started. She’s their adviser and they attribute some of their success in starting The Book Club to her. Starting the club was not without challenges. “Getting the books is our biggest challenge in starting the club because we have 15 or so people in our club,” Mialky said. “We have to make sure we can get the right amount of books for everyone to

6 May 2017

use.” Selecting a book is a fun part of a book club, but it can also be a challenge. “Everyone has a different taste in books, so it’s hard to get one that’s appropriate for everyone, and everyone will be willing to read,” Bergstrom said. Right now the book that they are reading is “Six of Crows,” but they are still deciding on the book that they will be reading for next month. They plan on reading more books, but they are also considering doing some movie watching for books that they have read. If there are movies that go along with the books that they are reading then they might watch the movies of those books after they read them. “We are most excited to share our love of reading!” they said. All of their current members are freshmen that they are close with, so they encourage others to reach out and be a part of their club. Other than The Book Club, The Fishing Club is now at the high school. The two co-founders are sophomore Evan Noth and freshman Jason Reding. The two freshmen boys started this club in early February. “[We started this club to] teach white-collar kids how to be redneck,” Noth said.

Environmental science teacher Jim Reding doubles as Jason’s dad and the teacher who helped the club start up. Noth explained that there is currently no adviser for the fishing club as they are an “illegitimate club right now.” He said that in the future they plan on having Steve Noth and Jim Reding be their advisers. “A bunch of seniors think that it’s a joke,” Noth said. He did not want to give names. For the future of the fishing club, the advisers plan on teaching the uninformed how to fish, but the most exciting part of this club’s future is the “bass boat.” He said that far in the future they will buy this boat but “not while I’m here,” as the plans for this are far away. Noth, Reding and the other 21 members of this club are currently mid-tournament, but Noth had a lax attitude about it. The fishing club in general produces a fun and relaxed atmosphere. Mialky spoke of her attitude towards the reading club that summarizes the new clubs well. “We’re overall just super excited to see what happens,” Mialky said.

Energy-saving motion sensors Youth Leadership Council serves in Licking County invade the school BY CARSTEN SAVAGE (‘17) he conspicuous, white camera-like machines peer down at the students below like telescreens in George Orwell’s “1984.” Their bright green lights flash off and on sporadically as if sensing something, but—for many students—the devices’ purpose is unknown. Are they recording curse words from students through hidden speakers or making sure that teachers stay on task or looking for intruders? Can they spy on students and function as smoke detectors at the same time? Actually, the sensors were installed in order to make the schools’ light fixtures automatically turn on and off. “If there is no one in the room, they’re supposed to turn the lights off,” STAR student Jacob Hubert said. Hubert stated that the STAR students have not been taught how to install or fix the sensors, and head of the STAR program Evan McCullough does not maintain the sensors either. “The lighting project is actually being led by the facilities department,” McCullough said. The new school sensors save the school “At the district level, money and the teachers time. (BluePrints the supervisor for Photo/ Carsten Savage) the project is Tanya Sherburne, our Director of Operations.” McCullough also said that head of the Maintenance department Frank Fahner works with the sensors. The white sensors are supposed to decrease the school’s environmental footprint by saving energy. The new sensors and lights were purchased in one of the school’s energy-saving initiatives called the Energy Saving Program. Although the district has fallen under fire for failing to adequately recycle, it has striven to improve its environmental impact since. For many teachers, no longer having to worry about shutting off the lights is incredibly useful; it’s one less task they have to worry about. “I don’t have to feel guilty about leaving the lights on when I leave,” math teacher Renee Runyan said. “I walk out of the room and don’t even think about them.” Yet, the sensors do not come without a few hiccups. The sensor has not turned the lights off during Algebra 1 and Calculus AB/ ABC teacher Janie Zawacki’s class, and it has proved to be somewhat unpredictable. “They don’t seem to work when I leave one light off and one on,” Zawacki said. She also stated that she turns the switch off when she leaves for home. “I don’t trust them enough,” Zawacki said. “Once when I left for lunch and came back, they were still on.”

Five Granville students serve throughout Licking County and learn the importance of leadership and community service. (BluePrints Photo/Morgan Pracher) BY SYDNEY BEDNARSKI (‘18) ranville students who are involved with YLC have been making changes for the better in our community for years. Youth Leadership Council was established in 2011, in order to teach young adults in Licking County about leadership, communication and problem solving. All the students come from different schools in Licking County and each and everyone of them help contribute to keep Licking County a drug free, safe and enjoyable place. Emily Kauchak has been apart of YLC for one year and really recommends joining. “You apply online and then you’ll get an interview session over the phone after that,” said Kauchak, “It’s really not that difficult.” Five students are involved in YLC from Granville this year, and the numbers are growing every year. “It’s growing in “Five students are inpopularity every volved in YLC from year. Anyone who is a sophomore, junior Granville this year, and or senior can apply,” the numbers are growsaid Kauchak. ing every year.” This year the group attended the Sandy Hook Training. “It was really cool to sit in on that seminar, all the information was really valuable,” said Emily Kauchuk who attended the training. “We also go to the Youth Leadership Summit. About 8-9 of us from Granville go, and there are about 300 students there. It’s really fun and we get to do lots of activities,” said Kauchak. “We do lots of small projects around the community, and a lot involve recycling and drug prevention,” said Kauchak. Aside from gaining life long skills while doing various training with YLC, it is also a very good organization to be affiliated with when applying for colleges. When asked for a quote describing what the group really stands for, “Youth Leading Youth,” is what Kauchak says.

blueprintsonline.org

Sports

Tennis team concludes another successful season

Nine seniors contributed to the tennis teams third straight season of increased wins. The team won all five courts against Teays Valley on senior night. (Photo courtesy of Traci Thompson)

BY CORTEZ YANNIE (‘17) he boys’ tennis team finished an impressive season with a record of 10-3, with all three losses coming against quality opponents. Many players on the team had successful seasons. Brothers Addison and Raleigh Conway excelled in big moments and helped propel the program to its third straight season of increased wins. “Addison Conway has been a nice addition to the team, with his quality play

this year for being somewhat new to the team,” said Will Dickson. If Addison’s success was a welcomed surprise, other senior leaders were expectedly dominant. Future Denison tennis team member John Purnode breezed through most of his opponents, proving to be vital in matches agsinst talented competition. Last season, an Italian exhange student from Watkins defeated Jackson Terry in the deciding match, leading Watkins

to a vicotry. In a strange twist of fate, Elia Martinelli, another Italian exchange student, was a vital part of the team this season. Elia had not played tennis for three years leading up to his exchange and decided to join the team to make friends and get a feel for American interscholastic sports. Jackson Terry and Duncan Penland also developed into a fearsome doubles team and senior Jack Bain proved to be invaluable due to his flexibility and consistency. “Jackson Terry came back for his senior year looking sharper and has improved on most of his weaknesses from the prior year,” said Purnode. Sophomore Nick Havill showed flashes of potential as the season progressed, and will be counted on for production in the coming years. Many matches often came down to sophomore Scott Sharp holding down the third singles court. Most of his matches took longer than the other players and were vital to the team’s overall success. Although the regular season has come to a close, district, regional and state competitions lie ahead for the top seven players. All seven have a realistic chances of advancing deep into the tournament.

Softball team hits for power while sustaining success BY ASHLYN BROCKWAY (‘17) he softball team started the season by playing a tournament at Myrtle Beach. The varsity girls played four games, while the JV only played one. Varsity lost their first game, 11-10, in a high scoring shootout, but went on to win their next three games. JV won their only game, 11-10. The varsity team has the capability of scoring runs quickly, they hit six home runs while on the trip and overwhelmed their opponents with power hitting. After returning from the trip, the team played perennial power and arch-rival Lakewood. Despite the team’s best efforts, Lakewood emerged with a victory. They have had games almost every day this week and the girls are trying their hardest to make this a successful season. Hannah Cox is a freshman on the JV softball team this year and has loved be-

Varsity won 3 out of their 4 games at the start of their season. (Photo courtesy of Michael Brockway)

8 May 2017

ing part of such a close-knit group. “This is my first year playing softball on the high school level and I think overall it’s been a wonderful experience,” Cox said. Sophia Ehlers is a senior on varsity this year and is trying to rewrite the record books before she graduates. “I have had a great time this season and everyone on the team is getting along perfectly. I am currently working towards beating a few of the school’s records, one of them being how many home runs I’ve hit.” The softball season still has two weeks remaining and some very important games are left on the schedule.

Girls lacrosse steps up to the challenge against stout competition

The girls lacrosse team has excelled all season thanks to senior leadership and talented underclassmen. (BluePrints Photo/ Emma Naille) to Parsley. However, with some injuries, BY EMMA NAILLE (‘18) players of all ages have been getting playhe girls’ lacrosse team has had ing time and showing growth that “will six games so far against some provide a nice base as they develop.” tough opponents. They won Zehnal thinks the team has “done well against Pickerington Central, Westerville with double teaming on defense and quick and recently Bishop Watterson but lost to shooting on offense” and that the goalies Columbus Academy, Bexley and Dublin are doing well also. Jerome. Head Coach Tara Parsley still Sophomore Audrey Smith feels that the feels good about the season so far, as the attitude of the team has been one of their team sits at a 3-3 record. strong points. “We are in a Columbus league since “Everyone seems to be very positive there are no teams from Licking County and proactive on what we need to change and have lost to Columbus Academy and especially on the defense because we’re Bexley who are considered top contenders learning how to do zone defense right in our league,” said Parsley. now,” Smith said. Sophomore Kristen Zehnal also feels But there is certainly room for improvethat the team has done well considering ment, specifically on defense. the talent of their opponents. “We need to continue to attack the goal “Our only losses have been to Columon offense and need to develop confidence bus Academy and Bexley, two very talentand grit on defense. The coaching staff ed schools,” Zehnal said. “Varsity and JV needs to provide the framework for the both have two wins under their belts, and defense, and then we will practice and we expect to get some more! Central Ohio practice it till we execute it effectively, we is such a competitive area when it comes are not there yet,” Parsley said. to lacrosse, but we have been keeping up However, the team also wants to work all the way from Licking County.” on maintaining possession through ground Though the team lost 11 seniors last balls, draws, and the midfield transition year, making this a “rebuilding year,” because, according to Zehnal, “whichevthey have relied on current seniors who er team has the most possession time is have the “fundamentals and experience to typically winning.” provide stability on the team,” according Parsley said in that in the game against

Bexley, the opponent controlled the draw, which proved to be a problem for the Aces. “In lacrosse, whoever can control the draw typically will win the game,” Parsley said. “Sophie Shaw does an excellent job of initiating the draw, but she needs help from her team.” Smith said improving the midfield transition will also be a focus because it “is probably the most important part of the game considering it’s a lot of running” and that working on it would save time and energy. Looking to future games, the team will continue to practice the basics. “We need to focus on defense, the draw, and throwing and catching. If you can not throw and catch with consistency, then all the other philosophies are irrelevant,” said Parsley. They are also preparing some zone defense and offensive plays. “They take lots of practice time to master though, and we haven’t been able to really execute them well in a game yet. Other than that, we are just keeping our heart rates up, passing, and practicing until perfect!” said Zehnal. On senior night they played Centennial, a “new team that was still in the developmental stages,” according to Parsley, leading to an easy win. During the game, they put some players on attack that usually play defense like Grace Steele, Olivia Bellofatto and Carly Barrett, which led to all of the seniors except goalie Hannah Kiernan to score during this game. “We were able to all team members that night in a variety of places. It was nice to have 13 different scorers in one game, including all the senior field players. Goalie Hannah Kiernan had a great game against Centennial, blocking all of their shots but one with ease. As for the season as a whole, Parsley said, “We are currently 3-3 and that is something to be proud of with the strength of schedule we have and the competition we have faced. We will continue to focus on executing our offense and playing better in our midfield.”

blueprintsonline.org

Features

Choosing the

GAP

YEAR

Former Granville student Alaina McPherson took her gap year in Australia (Photo courtesy of Alania McPherson)

More and more students are choosing to forgo college right after high school. BluePrints reporter Mckenna Finley, finds out more about the new trend called a “gap year.” BY MACKENNA FINLEY (‘17) or many, senior year has become the epicenter of stressful planning, dorm shopping, roommate searches and the bitter crawl for scholarships. Although this is clearly the norm, not all of these soon to be adults are absorbed in the quick transition to college. Taking a year off between college and high school and college is gaining popularity amongst high school seniors. This year has come to be known as a gap year. Although most students are still opting to take the traditional route, the practice of waiting to attend college straight after high school is not new, but is definitely gaining not only popularity, but approval. “It’s become more accepted as a plausible option for students, but I still wouldn’t call it a popular choice,” school counselor Brandi Cooper said. “We usually have a couple [students] each year, maybe two or three.” The more students choosing to take this time between college and high school, administrators are seeing gap years take on more forms. “There are different reasons students choose to take gap years,” Cooper said.

10 May 2017

“Maybe they feel like they’re not quite ready for the transition to college. They want to have an experience, whether that be a service project, and internship, or travel.” Although these students are opting not to further their education through enrollment in college, they are not necessarily choosing to take a break from their educational career. Studying abroad is a popular option for those taking a gap year.

“They’re grown and more mature because of their experiences” “Students will study abroad and then come back and apply for college,” Cooper said. “That can make a difference even in their admissions.” Colleges might look closer at students who have taken a gap year because of the way their experiences rounded them. These students are more likely to be confident in their plans and the direction they’re taking, and of course, their

experiences can make for an impressive admissions essay. “Now they’re grown and more mature because of their experiences,” Cooper said. Students like senior Cecilia Reinhardt choose to study abroad not only to enrich their understanding of the world, but also to satisfy to drive to travel. “I’ll repeat my senior year in Hungary,” Reinhardt said. “I’ve always wanted to travel, and this is a great way to do that and experience a new culture.” Reinhardt is being joined by more and more students every year who decide to take the gap year plunge to enrich not only their educational experience, but their lives. Although a gap year is not the right option for every student, or even most, taking a year to experience the world in life changing ways can be exactly what some students want and need. Between all the college options, and now the possibility of a gap year. Its easy for high school students to feel lost or overwhelmed. Through it all, the best way to navigate all the new choices is to talk to your guidance counselor today.

Time to say “Bon Voyage” as prepare to study abroad

Anna Baltisberger

CC Reinhardt

Sydney Bednarski

1. Where are you studying? “The city of Pirituba, located in São Paulo, Brazil.” 2. What are you most excited for? “Eating tons of great food and immersing myself in a new culture.” 3. What are you most nervous for? “Becoming fluent and understanding the language (Portugese) while also attending high school.” 4. Do you have any activities planned yet? “Not yet but hopefully I will have some opportunities to travel Brazil.” 5. What will you miss most about home? “[My] family, friends and my dog.”

1. Where are you studying? “Hungary.” 2. What made you decide to study abroad? “I enjoy traveling, I realy wanted to see the world and I figured it would be a good experience before college.” 3. What are you most excited for? “I’m really excited to meet the new people and see a different culture.” 4. What are you most nervous for? “I’m nervous that I’m not going to be ready for the language.” 5. Do you have any activities planned yet? “I don’y have anything planned but I would love to go to Budapest and there is a Euro tour at the end.” 6. What will you miss most about home?

1. Where are you studying? “Slovakia.” 2. What made you decide to study abroad? “I like traveling a lot, and the foreign exchange students in the past made it sound fun.” 3. What are you most excited for? “Meeting a bunch of new people and the culture shock.” 4. What are you most nervous for? “I’m not nervous yet, but I should be.” 5. Do you have any activities planned yet? “They do a Euro tour at the end for about 14 days.” 6. What will you miss most about home? “My pets.” 7. How will graduation work? “I won’t be here to graduate but I’ll graduate with my class. I’m taking English and history online.”

Anna also encourages anyone to apply for the Rye Scholarship, information can be found at rye6690.com

“My mother’s food and peanut butter.

blueprintsonline.org

10 Graduates, 10 Years Later Granville graduates span the world

Granville graduate Elizabeth Boyd on her trip to Egypt. (Photo courtesy of Elizabeth Boyd)

veryone talks about what they want to do, where they are going, or that they havenâ€™t even decided what they want senior year. But no one ever really stays in touch with seniors to see exactly how their lives pan out. Life is a roller coaster with a million different directions to go. Class of 2007 graduates Ol12 May 2017

ivia Combe, Tanner Field, Jeffrey Dunifon, Elizabeth Boyd, Mariah Koons, Mike Thompson, Emily Matula, Kelly Swope, Tim Moehring and Cassidy Hunkler all share their stories and what exactly life has thrown at them. Take a look at all the possibilities the world can offer for those big life decisions.

1 Olivia Combe BY JAKE PURDY (‘17) livia Combe is one of Granville’s finest graduates who grew up like the rest of us in this beautiful small town with a love for Whit’s but upon graduating college moved for her career. Combe is a writer, editor and editorial producer in San Francisco, California. She works for Instagram and is on a community team that runs the largest social media account in the world, @Instagram, that has 219 Million followers. Combe went to Oberlin College in Ohio and double majored in French and comparative literature. Combe pursued higher education after graduation as she went to Oberlin College in Ohio. She double majored in French and Comparative Literature. “Going to a good school with good teachers and classes definitely helped me on my way,” Combesaid. Students now may complain about how hard their classes are compared to other schools and how hard their teachers are on them but many students like Combegrow to appreciate how our village has shaped generations of students. When asked if she would move back to Granville she said she would not move anywhere east of the Rocky Mountains but that does not mean she doesn’t appreciate her hometown.

In high school, Combe was very involved, writing for the student newspaper, being captain of the cross country team, running track, playing soccer and basketball. Like many athletes from Granville who are involved in other clubs, she was a member of both the French and Latin clubs where she grew to like French and she went on to major in it. Combe is one of the many successful graduates from our high school and she acknowledges that Granville helped with her success. It is graduates like her that make us all here want to make a name for ourselves like she has.

TANNER FIELD

BY CHRIS VOLZKE (‘17) anner Field graduated from Granville High School in 2007. Since high school he knew he wanted to do something in film. His favorite teacher, Mr. Mullins, left a lasting impression on Field and encouraged him to pursue a career in film. “Great guy, a fellow film buff, and a talented writer- I tried to soak up everything I could from him, and would love to collaborate with him down the road” said Field about Mullins. After graduating high school Field went to DePaul University in Chicago to pursue a degree in film. Tanner graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Digital Cinema. Field said, “some say film school’s a waste- I’d disagree, it’s a great place to screw up.” After living in Chicago for 7 years, Tanner moved to Los Angeles, where he still lives today. While working for a company called Keslow Camera, Field had the opportunity to work on several projects, including some Oscar nominated films such as “The Revenant” and “Steve Jobs.”

(Photo courtesy of Olivia Combe)

Field also worked on several TV shows as well as commercials. “Granville embraced me when I began to focus on my chosen career path. The teachers at the school were always very encouraging when I wanted to make visual- based projects for their class,” said Field.

(Photo Courtesy of Tanner Field)

blueprintsonline.org

Jeffrey Dunifon BY LEXI MARELLI (‘18) he question of what to do after graduating high school can be very intimidating. The possibilities are endless. There are many career paths to choose from, and each one takes a very different direction. Ten former students from Granville were chosen from the class of 2007 to see what daily life looks like for them. Jeffrey Dunifon is one of these individuals who took up a career in law. “I’ve always been interested in the law and politics, but decided to go to law school after working for the Sierra Club during college,” Dunifon said. To get a degree in law, a further education after high school was needed for him. “I went to the Ohio State University for undergrad, and the University of Chicago for law school,” Dunifon said.

(Photo courtesy of Jeffrey Dunifon)

Sometimes students struggle to see the use of some of the subjects learned in school in daily life, however it is clear that a solid high school education is used in professional careers. “Obviously you write a lot as a lawyer, so English is important, but I have also found math and science to be helpful too,” Dunifon said. “Granville is definitely more rigorous than some other schools so it prepares you for college really well.” Overall it is important to choose a career path after high school that makes you happy. “I am very happy as a lawyer, and enjoy my area of practice, so I will probably continue doing this, and would like to spend more of my time on pro-bono cases,” Dunifon said.

Elizabeth Boyd

BY JORDAN GUMMERE (‘17) ooking back ten years after they have graduated, many graduates are surprised with how they actually turned out. As a senior, Elizabeth Boyd had envisioned mostly about what school she wanted to go to or what she had wanted to be. “I originally planned on being a political science major and saw myself going to law school. I never thought I would be a teacher living in the Middle East and traveling the world,” Boyd said.. Elizabeth Boyd is currently living and teaching in Cairo, Egypt. She is the fourth grade lead teacher at the American International School in Egypt. “A majority of my students are Egyptians, however, I do have students from Syria, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, Boyd said. “All content is taught in English, but students are required to attend daily Arabic classes and a weekly religion course. My work week is Sunday to Thursday with Friday and Saturday being my weekend.” After graduating from Granville, she attended college in North Carolina at

14 May 2017

High Point University and upon graduation, stayed in North Carolina and began her teaching career. After four years of teaching in North Carolina, she moved to Guangzhou, China, where she taught with

"Immerse yourself in different cultures and have an open mind." Disney English as an English teacher and then moved to Egypt. “Moving abroad has allowed me to travel the world and visit now 34 countries,” Boyd said. “As an expat in the Middle East, I am able to travel easily to Europe, Asia and Africa. I’ve met the most amazing people and experienced cultures that have shaped me into a better person. I’ve stayed with a Sapa villager while traveling to a remote town in northern Vietnam and have been welcomed into a Masaai Mara village in Kenya. I would not be able to learn and appreciate other cultures and lives had I not moved abroad.” Boyd tells that the best part about what

she does now is “witnessing everyday the amazing qualities of Egyptians. Unfortunately, many people have negative opinions about the Middle East. Since arriving in Egypt, I have experienced only amazing interactions with the locals. I speak very little Arabic and often times struggle to communicate. No one has ever gotten frustrated with me or refused to help me; they will do everything they can to help. It makes me wonder if foreigners came to the USA, would Americans be as patient and kind with them as Egyptians are with me?” explained Boyd. Boyd gives seniors some advice to current graduates. “Do not worry about what you want to be right now,” she said. “It is okay to be unsure and change your mind. Do not be afraid to do something crazy and move across the world! Immerse yourself in different cultures and have an open mind.”

(Photo courtesy of Mariah Koons)

5 Mariah Koons

BY JORDAN GUMMERE (‘17) ears later, 9 to be specific, Mariah Koons returns to her own high school to teach. “If you would have asked me ten years ago, I never would have thought that I would return to Granville; I wanted to get away from the bubble,” Koons said. One of the biggest mysteries is what graduates end up doing after they have graduated high school. 10 years later, Mariah Koons is now the Granville School District psychologist, “My main role is evaluating students to determine educational needs. I work one-on-one to complete extensive testing with students, and we use that information to determine how students learn best” Koons said. She also works at the nonpublic schools in Granville, Welsh Hills School and Granville Christian Academy. Her life now is much different than as a high schooler. “I am now married with a one-year-old son, and I’m working in a wonderful school district, which just happens to be back in my hometown!” said Koons. “In many ways, I’m the same person I was ten years ago, but I would say I’ve grown into who I am, learned what’s important, and seen more of the “real world.” However, I still have a lot left to learn!” Many people do or do not see themselves in certain places as they are graduating high school. For Mariah Koons, she had different ideas about her future. “As a senior in high school, I planned to go to college for journalism, with the intent to become a professional journalist or writer,” Koons said. “During my freshman year of college, I realized that I was much more interested in the field of psychology, so I changed my major.” Koons had started to consider careers such as social work, clinical psychology and school psychology. School psychology was her decision and she ended up going to graduate school at Ohio State. Koons has told her favorite part of her job. “I enjoy working directly with students and watching them grow, succeed, and overcome obstacles!” Koons said. “I also enjoy the perks of having a school schedule, with somewhat shorter days, breaks, and summers off to spend time with my family.” Koons hAs some words of advice for current seniors. “The world is much bigger than you know,” Koons said. “Take chances, challenge yourself, and do something that scares you. Go where you feel led, and don’t be afraid of stepping stones. You may not understand why you are in a certain season of life, but you will look back one day and realize that each of your experiences has shaped you into the person you’re supposed to become.”

6 Mike Thompson BY RILEY VRADENBURG (‘18) ike Thompson always knew he wanted to pursue radio deejaying after his high school career ended. Thompson had many positive influences and experiences throughout high school that helped teach him lessons he still lives by today. “I saw the movie “Private Parts” and was absolutely blown away by how much fun radio looked,” Thompson said. “Also I knew I wanted to do something that helped people and I didn’t have the stomach to be a police officer or a firefighter or a doctor.” Although he knew what he wanted to do professionally, it did not pay off at first. “ I only went to college because it seemed like the thing you’re supposed to do after high school” Thompson said. Thompson tried to pursue the typical college life most expect to have following high school, but it was not the path meant for him. “ I went to OU for a year but it was a mistake. I worked for a couple years then went to COTC and got my associates of business management.” Thompson said. After struggling with his journey through college, Thompson does not even use the degree he worked so hard for. However, he has worked his original dream job, with new surprises everyday. “ The best thing about radio is the unpredictability.” Thompson said. Thompson worked so hard to work his dream job, working at many stations to get to where he is now. “I’ve worked at WCLT T-100 in Newark and at KWOX K101, KMZE Z92 and KZZW 104.5 all in Woodward Oklahoma” Thompson said. It takes a long time to make it to the top of the radio broadcasting business. With all of that hard work, everyone deserves a break sometimes. “I’m taking a little break from radio after six years of going nonstop, but I want to get back in at some point and keep making people laugh and keep them up to date on the weather, news and everything else happening in the world.” Thompson said.

(Photo courtesy of Mike Thompson) blueprintsonline.org

EMILY MATULA

kelly swope

BY DANIEL BRNJIC (’17) elly Swope currently graces the campus of Vanderbilt University where he is both a student and teacher. He graduated from Granville in 2007, where he spent time in multiple AP classes and spent four years in the band. Now he is teaching and is working on his doctorate in Philosophy from Vanderbilt. Along with his work at Vanderbilt, Kelly has spent time at Granville as a substitute teacher. This experience has given him the chance to see the Granville education system from two different angles. “The biggest advantage that I feel Granville gave me was in college English class,” said Kelly. “The English Department "We graduated at Granville narrows the gap a decade ago, between high school and college writing. Most college freshman but we are all struggle and suffer trying to figinvolved with ure out how to write in college, but that was not an issue for me, each other's and I thank the English Departlives" ment for that,” Kelly Swope also enjoyed his time at Granville outside of academics, he played in the band and also started his own band out of his garage. He still is connected with most of his core friends. “I had my core group of friends in high school, and I stay in touch with all of them,” said Kelly. “We graduated a decade ago, but we are all involved with each other’s lives and I attribute that to the small atmosphere and classes at Granville.”

K (Photo courtesy of Emily Matula) BY HANNAH MUSICK (‘18) mily Matula is a graduate from our very own school 10 years ago, and she scored a job that is out of this world. Right now she has graduated with her PhD at the University of Colorado, and is working in their Bioastronautics program in the Aerospace Engineering Department. “This means that I research all aspects of supporting life in space (aka how to keep astronauts alive),” Matula said. “My research is currently being funded by NASA (NASA Space Technology Research Fellowship), and it’s looking at using algae to ‘clean’ the air for astronauts and also cool the spacecraft cabin.” However, during her studies she has been fortunate enough to work at different NASA locations doing research and support of projects. “Some of my duties have included designing medical devices for the International Space Station, and seeing if I could use algae to purify urine into drinking water. I’ve also been able to work for the Boeing Company where I did work on making their manufacturing plans for the new SLS (Space Launch System),” Matula said. Matula credits the education she received at Granville for schools’ education her much of her success. “Attending GHS made me realize my passion for engineering, and especially the hands-on aspect,” she said. “One of my most defining classes was IAP (Integrated Analysis and Physics), where I first connected the relationship between math and science. Understanding how I could predict certain physics outcomes with simple math equations was like magic and really exciting! (for me anyway, haha). I was able to use approaches learned in IAP in some of my preliminary classes in college, which helped me succeed in those course.” College was the next step in her education stepping stones. For her Bachelor’s and Master’s she attended the University of Michigan. Her Bachelor’s was in Mechanical Engineering and her Master’s was in Space Engineering. Matula really loves what she does and hopes to continue her NASA career in the near future. “I hope that after I graduate that I can continue to work in the space industry, either for NASA or SpaceX,” she said. “I’d like to design and test technologies that would help send our astronauts further into space. Maybe further in the future I’d like to teach either middle or high school math/science because I’d like to be able to encourage other students to go into the STEM fields.”

16 May 2017

(Photo courtesy of Kelly Swope)

To see future plans for the class of 2017, visit our interactive map at http://wp.me/p5Iwdn-1TF

Tim Moehring

BY JUSTIN THOMPSON (‘17) fter graduating from high school, Tim Moehring didn’t have a clear picture of what he wanted to do. He enlisted in the Navy and immediately started taking classes at Florida State College in Jacksonville. His career forced him to be flexible and he moved often, taking classes at different colleges. He decided to pursue a career as a diver, a choice that changed Tim’s life and has led him to great success. “I've traveled to eleven countries, finished Ironman New Zealand, saved two people from drowning, given dozens of hyperbaric oxygen treatments, survived an Arterial Gas Embolism and have developed more discipline and commitment than I ever thought possible,” said Moehring. Despite his many travels and devotion to his career, Moehring has found time to start a family and pursue his hobbies. “I live minutes away from the beach in Florida, have an amazing wife and a son on the way, two pets and I thoroughly enjoy cooking every chance I get,” said Moehring. Although his career in the Navy has sent Moehring around the globe, he remains grounded in his Granville roots. His favorite teachers were Mr. Haven, Mrs. Simmons and Mr. Spence. “I didn't realize just how high quality of an education that Granville High School was providing until I took my first few college classes,” he said. “The paper requirements and homework load were similar to that of my sophomore year! I couldn't believe it.”

After being out of high school for so long, Moehring has a unique take on the high school education system and its flaws. “Schools could use a class on personal financial management,” Moehring said. “I'm not talking about a macro-economics class that discusses the big picture. I'm talking about a class that gets into the nitty gritty of credit cards, debt to income ratios, budgeting, student loans and credit scores.” He believes that a class like this could put students ahead of their peers once they graduate. Moehring’s life has taken him to places he would never have imagined when he was in school. Being able to look retrospectively on his ten years since graduation, he believes that “life always feels like a pinball machine bouncing you around while you're moving forward. It isn't until you stop to look back that you realize you've traveled in a straight line from the start.”

Cassidi Hunkler

BY SYDNEY BEDNARSKI (‘18) assidi Hunkler has lived in Granville her whole life. After she graduated, she attended the University of Kentucky for her undergraduate degree, where she majored in Spanish and Linguistics. After that she attended Ohio University for her Master’s degree in Applied Linguistics and is now pursuing a Ph.D in Instructional Technology. Hunkler was able to teach abroad for a year in Honduras and another year in Thailand. Doing this made her realize how much she wanted to be a teacher, but it didn’t start like that. Her main goal was to travel, until she ended up loving the job. During her MA program, she was teaching international students in an intensive English program. Hunkler says that is what has really inspired her to pursue a Ph.D so that she can teach in a university setting. She says her interest in education began while in high school.

(Photo courtesy of Tim Moehring)

“I think Granville really prepared me in terms of promoting an appreciation of education,” Hunkler said. Hunkler said that Granville also helped her with her work ethic. “I went into college with a strong work ethic and even though I wasn't certain of where my education would lead me professionally at the time,” Hunkler said. “I think GHS set my standards for myself very high which is important when pursuing higher education.” In high school, Hunkler was involved with several extracurriculars. “I was a swimmer in high school and the years spent with the team were always so much fun,” Hunkler said. “ I will definitely never forget those experiences.” Hunkler looks back fondly on her high school experience, especially big events such as proms and graduation, but what she appreciates most are the friends she made. “Granville is such a tight community

(Photo courtesy of Cassidi Hunkler) and I had known almost all of my graduating class since kindergarten,”she said. “Some of my best friends were from Granville, we still have relationships today. I think friends made in Granville tend to last more than I've notice other people's high school friends do.” Hunkler’s future plans are to pursue a PhD and hopefully find a job teaching in a university. blueprintsonline.org

Answer Key 1. Chris Volzskie’s shirt changed. 2. Jordan Gummere’s dress changed colors. changed.

5. A beard.

6. Jonathan Nieto vanished!

on the gym floor dissappeared!

18 May 2017 3. Nick Foster’s shirt changed colors.

7. Alex Chisolm’s shirt got an ace.

4. Thomas Krock’s shirt

8. Carsten Savage’s shirt turned green!

9. The stripe

10. There were 6 Wyatts in the picture (including the original): 3 on each side.

Photo Courtesy of Liz Argyle * 10th difference: Find the 6 Wyatts (including the original)

* Changes: Keep Score!

Look at the two pictures of the senior class of 2017 and try to spot the 10 differences!

Class of ‘17

Double Take: Spot the 10 Differences in the Picture!

DOUBLE TAKE

“I am half girl, half sleep.”

NATALIE HOUSER Attending Villanova University.

“If you can’t “Mamma, find the sun- I made it!” FRAHN shine, be the KELSEY Attending BGSU. sunshine.” HALEY RUSSELL Attending Otterbein University for vocal performance.

“Thank you GHS for teaching me to right good” JUSTIN THOMPSON Attending Ohio University.

(BluePrints Photo/Dustin Braden)

“Enjoy the little things in life, because one day you will look back, and realize they were the big things.”

“Never Give Up” VICTOR ZIGERT Serving in Americorps.

“GHS: stay classy and caffeinated.” MADISON TRACY Attending OSU.

“My mind says college but my heart says isolated sheep herder in Iceland.”

Photo Courtesy of Spencer Kruse-Melfie

MARIAH SOHOVICH Studying to be a veterinarian.

“Be fearless, life is more rewarding”

“This was nothing like ‘High School Musical.’” EMMA DONALDSON Attending OSUN for a year to figure out what she wants to do.

“No Shave November is amateur month.”

CHRIS VOLZKE Studying commercial music and music technology at Belmont University.

RACHAEL SHOEMAKER Attending Miami University.

To read all the senior profiles, go to http://wp.me/ p5Iwdn-1Tv

(BluePrints Photo/Dustin Braden)

Last Words

WHAT THE SENIORS SAID

(BluePrints Photo/Dustin Braden)

REILLY WELLES Attending Butler University. blueprintsonline.org

Entertainment

Dreaming of summer Summer movies coming to theaters near you

“Spider-Man: Homecoming” comes out in theaters on July 7. The movie features British actor Tom Holland, who is the third actor to play spider-man. (Photo: Sony Pictures) BY KARISSA HARRIS (‘17) very year summer movies are highly anticipated because it is such a popular time for moviegoers. 1. “The Fate of the Furious” (April 14) As the crew tries to settle into a “normal” life, a new, mysterious woman intrigues Dom and he abandons them. The group is thrown into a whirlwind of trouble with the help of both Mr. Nobody and Deckard Shaw, traveling from New York City to the icy plains of the Berring Sea to find Dom and bring him home 2. “Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales” (May 26) After Captain Salazar escapes from the Devil’s Triangle, he is set on killing every pirate in the sea. Anti-hero, Captain Jack Sparrow’s fate lies in Poseidon’s Trident, so he teams up with an astronomer and a young sailor in the Royal Navy to find the trident despite the odds against him. 3. “Alien: Covenant” (May 19) A colony ship by the name of Covenant travels to a far away galaxy and arrive at a mysterious planet, where they must plan

20 May 2017

an escape before they are killed by the threats they encounter. 4. “Baywatch” (May 26) A group of lifeguards work and live together on the beach saving lives and helping to fight crime. Starring Dwayne Johnson and Zac Efron, the group of lifeguards must put aside their personal differences to help fight a criminal’s drug trafficking scheme. 5. “Wonder Woman” (June 2) Diana, the princess of the Amazons, leaves home after a plane crash on the island of Themyscira. A military pilot Steve Trevor, tells Diana of the issues of World War 1, forcing Diana to leave in hopes of ending the war. 6. “The Book of Henry” (June 16) Henry and Peter, the two sons of a single mother live in a small suburban town, with a mysterious family next door. Henry, a genius, writes a book devising a plan on how to help the little girl Christina. 7. “Spider-Man: Homecoming” (July 7) After helping the gang in “Captain America: Civil War”, Peter Parker must relax into regular high school life while

maintaining his superhero life. 8. “Dunkirk” (July 21) During World War II, the German soldiers bombard the beaches of France, trapping Allied soldiers, and starts to execute them. The soldier’s face impossible circumstances and the movie follows the turmoil of the war and the evacuation of Dunkirk. 9. “Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets” (July 21) Valerian and Laureline must work together to save Alpha, a huge hub of a thousand planets, from a dark threat that not only will destroy Alpha, but the whole universe. 10. “The Dark Tower” (July 28) Based on the book written by Stephen King, an eleven-year-old boy goes on an adventure to find dimension called MidWorld. In this new world, he encounters a knight who is in search of the “Dark Tower.” The two band together in hopes of saving Mid-World from extinction.