Devil's Advocate (Volume 30, Issue 5 | 2013 2014)

devil’s advocate stanton college preparatory school

your stories. your school. your voice.

THE

NEXT STEP:

Real Life

After four years of tests, pep rallies, and hard work, 361 Stanton seniors prepare to recieve their diplomas, leave behind the bonds of friendship, and embark on the

By DESIRAE LEE, Features Reporter

no. 5 | june 2014 devilsadvocatepaper.com

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Lost & F o u n d

The thought of leaving Stanton is something that commonly crosses the minds of students. Although very few actually take the leap, some leave in search of a better high school experience. As the 2014 Senior class prepares to graduate, we reconnect with four students who left Stanton and may have been forgotten.

By ZOE REYES, Features Reporter

Joshua Bonsell

Alyssa Figueroa

Grant White

Grant White transferred to Fletcher High School after his academics began to slip due to being overburdened with sports and transportation issues. nitely struggling. All during the year, I struggled to get to and from school on time, get all the homework done, and still juggle playing on the basketball team, I might have even stayed if it weren’t for the lack of busing provided in the next school year,” said White. ible environment of Fletcher allowed White to put more focus on his grades and sports.

“In terms of academics, I was able to get organized and raise my weighted GPA above a 4.0. Socially, I was exposed to more kids who didn’t really care about school, but that just motivated me to do even better,” said White. “The environment is much more lax, but I was able to work with that.”

White is planning on attending University of North Florida and majoring in Mechanical Engineering with hopes of going to medical school afterwards to become an orthopedic surgeon.

Joshua Bonsell transferred to First Coast after his sophomore year at Stanton, “I felt like I was able to succeed in a different environment and I was more accessible to opportunities that would better my future,” both sports and academics contributed to his decision. “Whether it be a less rigorous form of education where teachers still cared and were willing to help students one on one or a more prominent athletic program, First Coast seemed to sit well with me as a student overall.”

Bonsell noticed differences between Stanton and First Coast, but they only contributed to his development as a person, “I was exposed to different things going to both a neighborhood school and a magnet school and I think they shaped my point of view as a person.”

After leaving Stanton, Bonsell noticed positive changes in his life that many Stanton students sometimes wish they could achieve by leaving, “I honestly don’t regret leaving Stanton, actually I wish I left earlier. Everything in my life shifted for the better whether it was my grades or socially speaking.I was overall happier as a person which I think has to do with the relief that came from not being so stressed.”

Next year he will be attending Florida International University.

Caroline Joseph

Another student who decided to change her path is Alyssa Figueroa who transferred to First Coast after her freshman year. Figueroa left after she was unable to change her academic track and switch from International Baccalaureate to Honors.

According to Figueroa, leaving Stanton gave her more opportunities than if she were to have continued her education at Stanton.

“I was able to have a thriving social life. By going to my neighborhood school I was able to participate in Dual Enrollment and will now be graduating with my Associates degree an school,” said Figueroa.

She looks upon her decision with pure contentment.

“Leaving Stanton was the best decision I have ever made,” said Figueroa. “My only regret about transferring was losing time with the friends I made there.”

Figueroa received the full support of her parents which helped make her transition easier.

“They couldn’t possibly be more proud of me and they agreed with my decision,” said Figueroa.

In the fall, she will attend the University of Florida and major in nursing.

“Eventually, I’ll become a nurse practitioner,” said Figueroa.

4 | devil’s advocate

Caroline Joseph is currently a senior at Episcopal School of Jacksonville, she left Stanton in the 2010-2011 school year when she was a freshman because she believed at the time it was the best decision for her.

“It is something I learned from and grew from, I don’t think about leaving as a regret,” said Joseph.

In the beginning however, her decision seemed to have little payoff. when I look back on those three years, I realize I was very happy,” said Joseph.She is most grateful for the lesson that leaving Stanton taught her.

“When I left, I was forced to step out of my comfort zone and adapt... which is a life lesson I will cherish forever,” said Joseph. Her future plan is to attend University of South Carolina and major in Communications.

june 2014

to COLLEGE OFF Numbers

By The

498

Students enrolled into Stanton the start of freshman year.

The senior class has decreased by more than

15% since the start of freshman year.

363

Students will be a part of the 2014 graduating class.

18

Seniors who plan to attend college still remain undecided.

4

Seniors will not be attending college after graduation. june 2014

Seniors Attending College After Graduation Fall Term Summer Term Not Attending

1% 24%

74%

There are over 50 different colleges that seniors have chosen to attend, some outside of the United States.

Boston University Cornell University American University University of California, Berkeley Vanderbilt Trinity Baptist College Wofford College Florida International University Flager College Tallahassee Community College Washington College Clemson University Auburn University McGill University Point University Miami University Manhattan College Tulane University Roosevelt University Baylor University St. Leo University Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Carson Newman Jacksonville University Santa Fe College Florida Atlantic University Mercer University Florida A& M University University of North Florida Valencia Community College College of The Holy Cross Jacksonville University University of Notre Dame University of Puget Sound University of Pennsylvania University of Alabama University of Florida University of South Florida University of Maryland University of Central Florida Florida State University Florida Institute of Technology University of West Florida Florida Gulf Goast University Florida State College at Jax Georgia Institute of Technology University of North Carolina Worchester Polytechnic Institute Vassar College Florida International University The Citadel Grinnell College Stetson University University of Cincinnati University of Alabama (Birmingham)

Top Five Colleges

1 University of North Florida 2 University of Florida 3 University of Central Florida 4 Florida State University 5 Florida State College at Jacksonville

What Seniors will Be In-State For College?

Female

Male

300

225

150

75

0 Florida

Outside of Fl

Undecided

Not Going

* This data does not completely represent the entire senior class, only 295 seniors were surveyed. devil’s advocate | 5

The Split: Maternity Room to College Dorm

Lance and Meghan Pouralifazel will be staying together like the Emersons and the Genners’ as they attend the University of Central Florida in the fall. Like most twins, Meghan and Lance are subjected to constant comparison, but Lance is unbothered by this.

“The comparison doesn’t bother me because we are not the same person. We have different goals and dreams, so to hold myself to the same standards as my sister is illogical,” said Lance.

Meghan continues this, by stating that her

I can share secrets with and experience life with, but there are still some degree of separation that comes with being being different genders. I’m able to have my own experiences whereas if I had a twin sister we’d most likely be attached at the hip,” said Meghan They will not be immensely separated as compared to if they were attending different schools, but they no longer will be as physically close as living in the same house together.

I’ll miss the the availability of her. We’ve grown up side by side, she’s as much of a part of my life as I am apart of hers. We can talk about anything. She’s my other half,”

Ryan and Kevin Shih, like the Storys will be attending different schools. Ryan will be attending the University of California, Berkley, while Kevin is committed to the University of California, Los Angeles. They have been together throughout their entire school journey and have a close brotherly bond.

“It’s a joy [having a twin brother]. You always have someone around you that you can talk to, but it can be challenging at times because they know everything about you, they experience the same things as you, but we’re always compared which is the biggest downside,” said Kevin.

Ryan accounts the differences between them, “he’s a visual person, while I’m more analytical,” and “he’s more extroverted than I am”, but “we complement each other. He’s the Yin to my Yang.” cope with as Kevin explains that, “He’s a big there without him to identify him and remind me of who I am.”

Both Kevin and Ryan admit that they will go through withdrawal without having their other half around them constantly, but they promise to keep in touch and believes this separation will strengthen their bond.

photo by Sanaa Belkaich

The baseball siblings Paul and Adam Genners signed together with Manhattan College for baseball. Paul and Adam have been playing baseball together since age six and have continued up until high school. This constant connection to a sibling would seem annoying, but this is not the case for Adam.

“One reason we picked Manhattan College is because we would get to go together; we’re pretty close,” said Adam. He further explains the love for his brother by describing what it is like to have a twin.

“It’s like having a best friend to experience life with,” said Adam. Paul complements this referring to his brother as his “best friend.”

Their future plans are the same as they plan to be professional baseball players, but Paul plans to major in business and Adam plans to major in mechanical engineering. They will not be sharing a dorm room and Paul exclaims that “I’ll miss the way we remind each other of everything and that he won’t be readily available for me to talk to as he is now. Their brotherly bond will not be hindered as Adam foreshadows that the move to New York together will cause them to be closer.

Unlike the Emersons, the Storys will be attending different schools. Alex Story will be attending Florida State University, while Jack Story will be attending the University of Florida. They don’t have the closest brotherly bond, but they have a bond unique to them.

“We’re close, we’re not best friends, but we get along and we work together,” said Jack. They admire qualities about each other that they will miss due to this separation.

“I’ll miss his sense of humor. He can lighten up the day. If there is trouble in the family, he’ll make a joke and everything will be better,” said Jack. Alex admires his brother’s responsibility and admits that he’ll miss “having someone to talk to.” Coincidentally they both won’t miss the constant comparison made between them and the competition between them.

“We both want to be our own person and it’s hard for twins to establish individuality.” explains Alex. They also admit that the competition between them has affected their lives drastically.

“If I didn’t have a twin brother then I wouldn’t be as competitive as I am now,” said Jack. They plan to stay connected electronically, but will appreciate the distance from each other.

photo by Sanaa Belkaich

photo by Devon Leasure

By SHANICE SKYERS, Reporter

photo by Ashley Hagins

Graduation day is quickly approaching and many seniors are anticipating their college experience. There are many siblings that enter Stanton together after middle school and a portion of these siblings are twins. With college in the near future, these Stanton twins will either continue their journey together or be separated as they attend different schools.

Upon graduating from Stanton David Emerson and his sisters, Brittany Emerson and

“I didn’t want to say in Jacksonville, but there are three of us and college would be very expensive.”

They have attended the same school, most years, and their close bond is a result of this.

“We’ve been together since the original journey; I haven’t thought of being apart from them,” said David. Lindsey furthers this by hypothesizing that their separation would be different because she wouldn’t “have someone to always have her back.”

Their life will be different however, because unlike residing at home, David, Brittany, and Lindsey will not see each other as often, as they will not be rooming together.

“I won’t see them all the time, but at least I know they will be there in case I need

photo by Ashley Hagins

miss them.”

According to David, the struggles of the ‘triplet life’ is stressful because “nothing is solely yours, you’re sharing everything,” but he commends his mother for achieving “three births with one stone.”

Their future plans will end this streak as David plans to major in business, and Lind-

6 | devilsadvocatepaper.com

“I’m going to have to learn how to be on my own at some point in life,” said Brittany.

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the class of 2014 has evolved from having a reputation lective unit. The class of 2014 will forever have a footprint cemented in Stanton’s history.

Teachers and administrators, particularly the class sponsors, have witnessed the growth of these students. of 2014. During their sophomore year, Mrs. Amanda Rodriguez cosponsored with Ms. Norah Betancourt. Dr. Joel Adams sponsored the class as juniors and Mrs. Diana Glendinning along with Ms. Shirley Sacks are the current senior class sponsors.

Although Ms. Simmons admits she does not like to categorize students by class, she still notices a general trend in how the students change in personality from freshman to senior year.

“They come in as timid little freshmen who say very little, and then suddenly viduals who have something to say about everything. It’s always cool to see them grow and assert their position in the world,” said Ms. Simmons.

It is clear that from performances in pep rallies to participation in Homecoming week, the class of 2014 has always been full of enthusiasm. Incidents such as the double dis-

on Stanton. Hopefully I have encouraged younger athletes to excel in their academics and in athletics.”

Being a part of the Stanton athletic tradition has changed this class for the better. By applying school efforts into their athletic regime, class of 2014 students have become successful on many levels.

“Being at Stanton has created a stronger work ethic for me and my team,” said senior and varsity basketball team captain Miguel Delacruz. “When we work hard at school, we work hard on the court by trying to be the best at everything we do.”

In addition to athletics, the class of 2014 has taken advantage of leadership roles and has participated in countless activities such as the Leadership Exchange Program, the Stanton Marching Band, the Devil’s Advocate Newspaper staff, the Phoenix Yearbook staff, Multicultural Extravaganza, and Club Unity. These opportunities contribute to the well-rounded and diverse mindset they possess.

“Being a part of Stanton and a part of the class of 2014 has opened me up to what the real world has to offer. One major,” said senior Jowie Papa.

Having a social life, taking on a leadership role, and maintaining good grades is a balancing act that most Stanton students master by the time they graduate. Members of the class of 2014 have perfected this skill which has given them opportunities to grow as leaders.

“Stanton is a school that opens up your horizons and pushes you as a student.

I can proudly say that I’m not the same shy, apprehensive boy I once was,” said senior Renardo Gilmore. “As step team president, I would like to think that I have successfully inspired some of my peers and continued Stanton’s legacy as a school with no limits.”

Members of the class of 2014 have found ways to impact Stanton just by doing what they love.

“We were always able to bring spirit to the campus and I also found a group of people that share the same love for dancing as me,” said senior and dance team co-captain, Kaila Lariviere. “By participating, I gained a new family here at Stanton.”

Students from the class of 2014 have not only affected

Being at Stanton has been the most challenging and enlightening four years I’ve ever experienced.

–Kanupriya Gupta

is part of their legacy however, it has molded and trained the zealous personalities of these seniors.

“The class of 2014 is one of the most creative and passionate groups I’ve ever had the privilege to teach at Stanton,” said Dr. Adams, junior class sponsor.

This is a class like no other at a school like no other.

Stanton provides a unique, rigorous, high school experience that these seniors have come to embrace wholeheartedly. No wonder Stanton was named the number two school in the state with the class of 2014 in charge.

“Being at Stanton has been the most challenging and enlightening four years I’ve ever experienced,” said senior and valedictorian Kanupriya Gupta. “I could not have been successful here without the help of my peers, teachers, counselors, and family. I really hope I was able to have a positive impact here at Stanton.”

This commitment to academics has not only affected them positively as individuals but has allowed for the class of 2014 to change Stanton forever. Even with such high academic expectations, these seniors are enthusiastic about recollecting eventful memories, the experiences that changed them forever, and in return how they have changed Stanton.

A Lasting Footprint

to make Stanton one of the best Latin programs in the tamen,” said senior and Latin Club President Mark Kizer.

“This experience at Stanton has encouraged me to pursue collegiate level Latin courses and revealed my aptitude for teaching.”

Not only does this senior class have impressive academic accomplishments, several of the class of 2014 members have contributed to the athletic aspect of Stanton athletics.

“Stanton has encouraged me to set goals on and off

After 1383 days as Stanton students, the Class of 2014 tests, pep rallies, football games, and each other. photo by Taylor Galloway

By DESIRAE LEE, Features Reporter

10 | june 2014

cross country team to win districts in Stanton history,” said senior Kayla Thomas. “I’m glad to say I have left my mark

seen all over the world.

“As vice president of class of 2014 I have experienced so many different cultures. One of my favorite memories is going to Singapore for an international leadership exchange program,” said senior Rona Akbari. “I got to see a new culture that actually has a lot in common with us.”

The journey from freshman year to senior year has changed the class as a whole. This growth has become apparent as many of them move on to college and pursue their dreams.

“I’ve seen everyone become more ambitious. Everyone is focused on the steps to get where they really want to go,” said senior and 2013-2014 Miss Stanton Alexus Williamson.

Stanton students, especially the class of 2014 seniors, hold a great sense of school pride. Together they are the fun-loving, spirited group that will be remembered for generations at Stanton. Although graduation means many students will move away, the compradore and school spirit that held this group together will always remain.

“The variety of students in this school has allowed me to meet such wonderful people and has given me the opportunity to create friendships that will last a lifetime,” said senior and National Honor Society President Yena Choi. years later, I will always be a Stanton Blue Devil.”

Never again will Stanton College Preparatory School encounter such an array of superstars. The class of 2014 consists of all-star athletes, ivy-league scholars, renowned musicians, diverse dancers, and so much more. As innovators of the future, the class of 2014 has left their mark on Stanton and will go on to change the world.

The Mark of Red Nation

Within four short years, Stanton College Preparatory School’s graduating class of 2014 has become a class like no other. Time after time, this group of students has displayed unity and camaraderie in ways that set them apart from previous senior classes. A class that began as 498 freshmen has dwindled to 363 seniors.

However, as one of the slightly larger senior classes to graduate in recent history, this group not only holds outstanding academic records, but has a variety of talents that adds to their uniqueness.

11 | devilsadvocatepaper.com

the class of 2014 has evolved from having a reputation lective unit. The class of 2014 will forever have a footprint cemented in Stanton’s history.

Teachers and administrators, particularly the class sponsors, have witnessed the growth of these students. of 2014. During their sophomore year, Mrs. Amanda Rodriguez cosponsored with Ms. Norah Betancourt. Dr. Joel Adams sponsored the class as juniors and Mrs. Diana Glendinning along with Ms. Shirley Sacks are the current senior class sponsors.

Although Ms. Simmons admits she does not like to categorize students by class, she still notices a general trend in how the students change in personality from freshman to senior year.

“They come in as timid little freshmen who say very little, and then suddenly viduals who have something to say about everything. It’s always cool to see them grow and assert their position in the world,” said Ms. Simmons.

It is clear that from performances in pep rallies to participation in Homecoming week, the class of 2014 has always been full of enthusiasm. Incidents such as the double dis-

on Stanton. Hopefully I have encouraged younger athletes to excel in their academics and in athletics.”

Being a part of the Stanton athletic tradition has changed this class for the better. By applying school efforts into their athletic regime, class of 2014 students have become successful on many levels.

“Being at Stanton has created a stronger work ethic for me and my team,” said senior and varsity basketball team captain Miguel Delacruz. “When we work hard at school, we work hard on the court by trying to be the best at everything we do.”

In addition to athletics, the class of 2014 has taken advantage of leadership roles and has participated in countless activities such as the Leadership Exchange Program, the Stanton Marching Band, the Devil’s Advocate Newspaper staff, the Phoenix Yearbook staff, Multicultural Extravaganza, and Club Unity. These opportunities contribute to the well-rounded and diverse mindset they possess.

“Being a part of Stanton and a part of the class of 2014 has opened me up to what the real world has to offer. One major,” said senior Jowie Papa.

Having a social life, taking on a leadership role, and maintaining good grades is a balancing act that most Stanton students master by the time they graduate. Members of the class of 2014 have perfected this skill which has given them opportunities to grow as leaders.

“Stanton is a school that opens up your horizons and pushes you as a student.

I can proudly say that I’m not the same shy, apprehensive boy I once was,” said senior Renardo Gilmore. “As step team president, I would like to think that I have successfully inspired some of my peers and continued Stanton’s legacy as a school with no limits.”

Members of the class of 2014 have found ways to impact Stanton just by doing what they love.

“We were always able to bring spirit to the campus and I also found a group of people that share the same love for dancing as me,” said senior and dance team co-captain, Kaila Lariviere. “By participating, I gained a new family here at Stanton.”

Students from the class of 2014 have not only affected

Being at Stanton has been the most challenging and enlightening four years I’ve ever experienced.

–Kanupriya Gupta

is part of their legacy however, it has molded and trained the zealous personalities of these seniors.

“The class of 2014 is one of the most creative and passionate groups I’ve ever had the privilege to teach at Stanton,” said Dr. Adams, junior class sponsor.

This is a class like no other at a school like no other.

Stanton provides a unique, rigorous, high school experience that these seniors have come to embrace wholeheartedly. No wonder Stanton was named the number two school in the state with the class of 2014 in charge.

“Being at Stanton has been the most challenging and enlightening four years I’ve ever experienced,” said senior and valedictorian Kanupriya Gupta. “I could not have been successful here without the help of my peers, teachers, counselors, and family. I really hope I was able to have a positive impact here at Stanton.”

This commitment to academics has not only affected them positively as individuals but has allowed for the class of 2014 to change Stanton forever. Even with such high academic expectations, these seniors are enthusiastic about recollecting eventful memories, the experiences that changed them forever, and in return how they have changed Stanton.

A Lasting Footprint

to make Stanton one of the best Latin programs in the tamen,” said senior and Latin Club President Mark Kizer.

“This experience at Stanton has encouraged me to pursue collegiate level Latin courses and revealed my aptitude for teaching.”

Not only does this senior class have impressive academic accomplishments, several of the class of 2014 members have contributed to the athletic aspect of Stanton athletics.

“Stanton has encouraged me to set goals on and off

After 1383 days as Stanton students, the Class of 2014 tests, pep rallies, football games, and each other. photo by Taylor Galloway

By DESIRAE LEE, Features Reporter

10 | june 2014

cross country team to win districts in Stanton history,” said senior Kayla Thomas. “I’m glad to say I have left my mark

seen all over the world.

“As vice president of class of 2014 I have experienced so many different cultures. One of my favorite memories is going to Singapore for an international leadership exchange program,” said senior Rona Akbari. “I got to see a new culture that actually has a lot in common with us.”

The journey from freshman year to senior year has changed the class as a whole. This growth has become apparent as many of them move on to college and pursue their dreams.

“I’ve seen everyone become more ambitious. Everyone is focused on the steps to get where they really want to go,” said senior and 2013-2014 Miss Stanton Alexus Williamson.

Stanton students, especially the class of 2014 seniors, hold a great sense of school pride. Together they are the fun-loving, spirited group that will be remembered for generations at Stanton. Although graduation means many students will move away, the compradore and school spirit that held this group together will always remain.

“The variety of students in this school has allowed me to meet such wonderful people and has given me the opportunity to create friendships that will last a lifetime,” said senior and National Honor Society President Yena Choi. years later, I will always be a Stanton Blue Devil.”

Never again will Stanton College Preparatory School encounter such an array of superstars. The class of 2014 consists of all-star athletes, ivy-league scholars, renowned musicians, diverse dancers, and so much more. As innovators of the future, the class of 2014 has left their mark on Stanton and will go on to change the world.

The Mark of Red Nation

Within four short years, Stanton College Preparatory School’s graduating class of 2014 has become a class like no other. Time after time, this group of students has displayed unity and camaraderie in ways that set them apart from previous senior classes. A class that began as 498 freshmen has dwindled to 363 seniors.

However, as one of the slightly larger senior classes to graduate in recent history, this group not only holds outstanding academic records, but has a variety of talents that adds to their uniqueness.

11 | devilsadvocatepaper.com

photos by Devon Leasure, Kathryn McMullen, Sanaa Belkaich, Ashley Hagins

MOST WANTED taking selfies at awkward moments

drawing a picture of Dr. Raj on his test

escaping a zombie apocalypse

breaking dress code

murdering their twin for a science fair title

breaking into Beyonce’s house

chaining herself to a tree

being “too fye”

having an illegal calculator

yo-yoing during a symphony

putting laxatives in brownies

to be on The Bachelor

bringing a dead animal to school

having too many science credits

MISSING

taking Miss Stanton’s crown

MISSING

breaking out of twitter jail

If found please contact the attendance office at stanton college preparatory school. students were last seen August 19, 2013. going in the girls bathroom

stealing an Oscar

Flashback

“My junior year during one of the football games I introduced the speedo run at Stanton. The football team scored a touchdown so in tradition all the boys were painted up went down and started running down the track to pump up the crowd. BUT as we came back I had stripped down to my speedo (practically naked)

“When two cats mated on the roof.”

—Sean Cavins

the entire crowd’s jaws drop and become completely silent. It was ments.”

—Joshua Barnhart

“One of the funniest things I can remember is spirit week when Magnus climbed into the drain in the middle of the courtyard and pulled out Mr.Lewis’ turtle.”

—Sydney Moore

“My favorite memory at the in school basketball game against Paxon. If only I was playing but getting out of class for sports is good.”

—Nikhil Venkatesh

“I was walking up stairs and I tripped and fell up the stairs.”

—Signy Moreland

“When Tamla Simmons said ‘bike’” —Sharvan Chhabria “Getting into Filipino and trying new dances” —Shridi Oesni “The New York trip” —Robbie Battinelli

“I dropped 8 beakers and broke them freshphoto by Devon Leasure

wore a bright purple shirt instead of red and everyone yelled at me! I never forgot again!”

—Allison Cassada

“Going on a trip to Singapore with Mrs. O’ Connor and Mrs. Majova” —Kayla Lovett

“As a freshman I slid down the stairs on my butt and two seniors ran over to help” —Dalia Elmelige

SENIOR SHOUT OUTS 14 | devilsadvocatepaper.com

can top that?”

—Andrew Catone

“Shoutout to Ms. T. Simmons for being an awesome AP Bio teacher, and always keeping us laughing.”

—Emily Poston

Sharpe” —Anonymous

“Shoutout to Mr. Sims for making math my favorite subject for once in my life.”

—Jon Walls

“Shoutout to Mrs. Feierstein for being the best teacher ever.”

—David Li

june 2014

Senior Quotes

“‘I am a God.’ Kanye West” —Tristan Beasley Painter

“‘I scrong you scrong! We scrong then, leggo!!’ Jameis Winston” —Joshua Barnhart “Get this money, take over the world.”

—Ahsan Shareef

“Do you want to build a snowman.”

—Justin Brinkley

“‘Go as far as you can see, and when you get there you’ll be able to see farther.’ Thomas Carlyle” —Chelsea Claverie “OMG (shocked cat emoji)(prayer hands) I’ve been waiting to have a senior quote all my life! Here it goes...”

—Rona Akbari “Don’t let your personal distraction become your professional downfall.”

—Dominque Snowden “‘How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.’

Winnie the Pooh” —Kishan Patel “Shoutout to Mr. Jackson for always being around to help for the quick clean-ups, inspirational speeches provided to the football team, and just working hard without reward.”

—Joseph Dioso

june 2014

“When she jumped, she probably —Justina Foster —Magnus Ponson

“‘I’m not really good at goodbyes so that’ll do pig.’ Zombieland” —Allie Ragland

“No ragrets.”

—Angela Udongwo

“Thank you Based God.” —Hamza Ajmal

“Excuses are tools of incompetent they build monuments of nothingness.”

—Brianna Edmond

“‘Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them.’ William Shakespeare” “Enjoy it while you can, it —Leighton Baruch goes by so slow.”

—Brianna George “Don’t underestimate the power of senioritis.”

—Joshua Mitchell

“Shoutout to Dr. Adams for literally being amazing.”

—Sammy Spencer

“Shoutout to ‘Mrs. Sikes’ for being my second mom, I love you!”

—Netta Walker

“Shoutout to Ms. Migues... I love cats.”

—Allie Ragland

devil’s advocate | 15

High School Sweethearts

By GABI PRIOLEAU, Reporter

There are certain couples known around school for the long-lasting nature of their relationships. As high school comes to a close, these individuals have to High school is the time to make new friends, discover who you are, and build relationships with people. A romantic relationship, especially the ones in high school, is a type of relationship

16 | devilsadvocatepaper.com

Kaila Menard and Cody Ragland are seniors who have been dating for over three years. With Menard heading off to the University of Central Florida in the fall and Ragland staying in Jacksonville to attend Trinity Baptist College, the couple sat down with us to discuss their relationship and share some valuable advice.

Cody Ragland: I began seeing her around school a lot and asked my friends who she was. Once I found someone who knew her, I got on Facebook, added her as a friend, sent her a message, and that’s how it all began.

others. Some couples believe that they are strong enough to withstand the hardships and the stigmas that they are plagued with and plan to stay together beyond high school. Age and especially distance do not deter these couples from the path that they want to take in their relationship for the future.

Kiana Negron and John Walls have experienced the social stigmas of dating the same person for an extended amount of time. After dating for over two years, they are used to receiving questions such as, “You guys are still together?” and, “Geez, will you guys ever break up?” While Walls is going to be attending Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University in the fall and Negron is going to be attending Florida State University, they believe that their relationship will last.

“Anybody can say that their relationship will last and that they are the right match for each other,” said Walls, “but I see us as

If they weren’t to go to the same college, Westberry said that it wouldn’t make a huge difference in their relationship.

“He’s my best friend,” said Westberry. “We can Skype all the time; we’ll make it work.”

After dating for a year, Westberry and Schoonmaker have experienced some rough points in their relationship. Jealousy, misunderstandings, and miscommunication are typical reasons why arguments can start between a couple.

“We’ve had some downs in our relationship,” said Schoonmaker. “Jealousy was one, but it was just a misunderstanding.”

These past few weeks of senior year have been especially trying for their relationship. Just recently, Westberry was in a soccer accident that required her to have reconstructive surgery on the right side of her face. Because she was recovering from the surgery, she had to miss prom and Grad Bash, two of the most important events during senior year.

“I went through stages while I was recovering and I was depressed; I was missing all these events and everyone else was out having fun,” said Westberry.

A misunderstanding in their relationship took place when Schoonmaker’s phone was broken and he had no way of contacting Westberry while she was in the hospital.

“While I was busy being upset, I was mad that he wasn’t talking to me,” said Westberry. “ In actuality, his phone was

With Kaila Menard and Cody Ragland

Devil’s Advocate: To start off, how did you two meet?

attending Stanton, there is the added stress of trying to maintain grades, playing a sport, joining clubs, and participating in any other extracurricular activities.

When embarking on the new chapter of going to college, most people believe that high school relationships are destined to end; they use the fact that they are going to college as an

DA: Was your relationship a determining

photo by Sanaa Belkaich

another obstacle that we are going to have to overcome.”

But what happens if a couple goes to the same college?

What does that mean for their relationship? Ashley Westberry and Robby Schoonmaker may have to make these decisions come next fall.

Schoonmaker will attend Auburn University to study civil engineering; Westberry will either attend Florida International University to play soccer or attend Auburn University and study Pre-Med. With the possibility of them going to the same college, they have had to put their relationship in perspective.

“Our relationship wasn’t necessarily a determining factor in

Q&A

everything okay.”

Because high school relationships are plagued with the stigma that they won’t or can’t last, having a relationship that lasts all four years of high school is special. Cody Ragland and Kaila Menard started dating their freshman year. It all started with a simple Facebook message.

“I started seeing her around school a lot,” said Ragland.

“Once I found someone that knew her, I added her on Facebook, sent her a message, and that’s how it all began.”

Their relationship has lasted longer than a typical high school relationship. Both Ragland and Menard attribute their “We focus our relationship around Christ and being more Godly in the relationship,” said Ragland. “It doesn’t mean that we are perfect, but it helps us make every moment count and keeps us from doing things we might regret.”

Both Ragland and Menard believe that the fact that Christ plays a major role in both their personal lives and their relationship is what helps them have a successful relationship.

“Well, as Christians, we pray together, go to church together, and study the Bible together,” said Menard. “It helps us to know how to have a relationship like God tells us to.”

With Menard attending the University of Central Florida in the fall and Ragland attending Trinity Baptist College to play baseball, their relationship is expected to undergo some changes. But because of their strong faith, both in Christ and in their relationship, they don’t have any worries.

“I honestly have no idea where we’ll be in a year or two,” said Menard. “ All I can do is trust in the Lord that whatever happens is for the best.”

Having a relationship while in high school can be tough.

Trying to maintain a long-lasting relationship may seem even

Kaila Menard: If you are asking if we planned college around each other, the answer is no.

We established from the beginning of our relationship that Cody wanted to play baseball and he was going to do everything he could to live that dream. I support him 100 percent and could never ask him to give that up just to be at UCF with me. Similarly, I have goals and plans for my future that he wouldn’t ask me to give up. We just agreed to not let our relationship determine that.

DA: To what extent do you think being apart will bring added stress to your relationship?

CR: I think that being separated won’t be the easiest thing, but what we do is different than most. Instead of focusing everything on one another, we focus our relationship around Christ and being more Godly through our relationship. It doesn’t necessarily mean that we are going to be perfect, but it helps us make every moment count and it keeps us from doing anything we regret. I personally feel that it helps me respect her more than anything, causing her to stay with me even if I do make mistakes. So stress will happen but we will be able to control and handle it because of the way we love each other through Christ.

DA: Do you have any advice to share with our readers?

KM: My advice is to always be honest with each other and don’t give up your own lifewhether it’s your friends or dreams- for a relationship with someone.

CR: You’ve got to be your own person- even in a relationship.

that you can connect with on a special level, they’re worth it.

june 2014

Opinions

Looking Back...

A Senior Farewell Senior Class Co-Sponsor

Contributing Writer

Dearest Seniors of the Class of 2014, I have sincerely enjoyed, alongside Diana Glendinning, serving

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smiled and laughed more this year than I have in a very long, long

that I read and the movies and television shows that I watched. My

days with sunshine, love, pride, joy, and for that I am forever in your

sanctity of youth. leads me to something I am going to share with you from the famous author, Kurt Vonnegut.

“Practice any art, music, singing, dancing, acting, drawing, crafting, painting, sculptyour soul grow. Seriously! I mean starting right now, do art and do it for the rest of your lives. Draw a funny or nice picture of your teacher, and give it to her/him. Dance home -

that you have to trudge through the vast, mysterious puddle that always seems to form in statistic applies to Stanton when it rains.

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ming Pool” (Shout out to 10th grader Dominique Herreros for this one).

The feeling of togetherness is ever-present. I have never not felt connected and loved

soul grow.”

If you truly understand that the only limitations you have are those you put on yourself, then you can go anywhere you want and do anything your heart desires. The law of at-

gifts and talents you have shared with our school and our Stanton family, and always

Journey on!

1. #TPCASTT lifestyle).

2.

most talented, loving, and supportive group of people.

4.

Dance and dancing the night away with my friends.

Taylor Galloway Jonathan Kemp

5.

Editor-in-Chief Managing Editor

of life through my traveling and volunteering.

Discovering The Smiths, whose music has helped me pull through the angst-ridden years of high school.

Manya Goldstein Kathryn McMullen The Devil’s Advocate

Senior Photography Editor Sports Editor

class. I also learned the importance of organization and time-coding. I am inspired

9.

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mar, length, and accuracy.

The Devil’s Advocate newspaper are not necessarily those of the newspaper adviser, school administra-

10.

The Devil’s Advocate

18 | devilsadvocatepaper.com

june 2014

Opinions A Pause to Reminisce

A Word of Advice

By KISHAN PATEL, Senior Class President

By SAMMY SPENCER, Contributing Writer

It’s already over. The past four years seem like a blur in hindsight.

Devil’s Advocate, I was prompted

group. I remember the pep ralliesor more so the auditorium talks in

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years. I keep telling myself that I will see everyone here and there after June 6 but I know that graduation is the last time now we will part our separate ways. thing I’ll never forget. I still tell people I hate running and that it’s the people on that team that got me through it.

plishment for them as they prepare for retirement.

stressing. Stop staying up all night freaking out

leading up to the show, the time spent preparing for the I’ll remember. I made some of the most unforgettable the people that were in my group, aside from just their -

more than deserving of the Silver Star award and a true blessing to have at Stanton.

Without the students at Stanton, the work would seem overwhelming and unbearable. Knowing that you are all going through the same mental beating makes

A Moment of Thanks

the top minds in the nation is so motivating. However,

By NETTA WALKER, Contributing Writer

Copeland and Mr. Knight.

I’ll forever miss walking into pep rallies together as photo by Ashley Hagins

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triple overtime basketball game against Paxon. I’ll miss the Golden Phoenix. I’ll miss the time when everybody whatever random name popped into his head. I’ll miss pore with two of my favorite people, Ms. Majova and Ms.

Without Mrs. Heggood, I wouldn’t be half as honest or blunt as I am. Without Dr. Adams, I wouldn’t feel as supported as I

wouldn’t have gotten through these last four years alive. So thank you to every single person that made this long, bumpy

thanks to Stanton.

ever seen.

But most of all, I’ll miss this time right now.

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