V35 Issue 7

Eagle

dallas [Summer] bucket

list Eagle Edition • Episcopal School of Dallas • May 21, 2018 • Vol. 35 • Issue 7 Gray Malin ‘04 chosen as commencement speaker for graduation, Page 4

Ten local activities to make the most out of summer break, Pages 10-11

Upcoming Senate election sparks discussion, Page 14

Womens lacrosse moves past the semi-quarter finals, Page 16

2 • Eagle Edition • May 21, 2018

NEWS

Honors assembly undergoes change

Fewer upperclassmen awards handed out, more attention given to underclassmen Story and graphic by Jiaying Fu

T

“

We hadn’t

looked at [the

awards ceremony] deeply in a while.

It was time for us to take a deep look at it and see if it was the kind of awards ceremony that we wanted.

”

— Assistant Head of Upper School Jeff Laba

he Honors Assembly on May 21 featured a few changes that were planned by administration months before.

The Honors Assembly is a long-standing tradition that celebrates student achievements during the school year, where 60 individual awards are given out across all grade levels with the majority going to juniors and seniors.

Generally, 20 awards are handed out with multiple winners for each one. This year, the ceremony has undergone several changes in order to better honor the meaning of the awards and the school’s mission.

“We’ve been doing the awards assembly the same way, mostly because that’s the way we’ve always done it,” Junior Class Dean Claire Mrozek said. “We made a concerted effort to be thoughtful and deliberate so that awards are fair.”

Changes were made in order to better embody community values.

“We always like to think that the awards are something the students keep in mind, that they might want to work toward as a goal,” Assistant Head of Upper School Jeff Laba said.

“With some of these changes, now that there’s more alignment with the Founding Tenets and Hallmarks, it might give a more accurate goal for students to work toward and is a way to recognize those students that have done a fine job at meeting the mission of this school.”

Certain awards have been removed and others added. There will continue to be around 60 awards given, with an equal number removed and added.

“We tried to group the awards a little differently so that they were in better categories,” Mrozek said. “We tried to make sure that we wouldn’t have kids winning multiple awards. There was sort of an attempt to share the wealth. We pared down some of the awards so that there weren’t so many book awards that were all kind of the same thing.”

Attention was placed on making sure that some awards would have one boy and one girl recipient.

“This year—and I think it’s very fair— awards are given to one boy and one girl,” Spanish teacher Marcela Garcini said. “Now, everybody has the same opportunity when we talk about genders.”

Less emphasis was placed on junior and senior awards this year. However, there is no

specific grade that was drastically affected.

“There [are] changes across all levels,” Laba said. “There were more awards added for freshmen and sophomores, and they were clarified a little bit.”

Faculty believe that these changes will positively impact students.

“It is very hard to pick and choose awards because there are so many talented kids,” Garcini said.

“Decreasing the number [of awards] and concentrating on the ones that reflect our Tenets and who we are as a school is much better because if you give an award to everyone, what is the award, really? We have to make a distinction.”

Student opinions vary across grade levels.

Many juniors do not appreciate the possibility of fewer upperclassmen awards.

“I don’t think the new changes being made are a good idea,” junior Will Minnis said. “The point of the assembly is to give juniors awards

News to Use May 21 Honors Assembly, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.

June 1 Faculty and Staff Release

May 22-24 US Exams

June 11 Summer School Session One Begins

May 25 US Make-Up Exams

July 2 Summer School Session Two Begins

May 25 Baccalaureate, 5-6 p.m.

July 27-28 Alumni Musical

May 26 Graduation, 7:30 p.m.

August 22 Classes Resume

for their resume.”

Many freshmen and sophomores appreciate that underclassmen have the chance to receive recognition as well.

“Because the upperclassmen have been here longer and have done much more, they deserve a lot more respect than [an underclassman], who has not had to endure as much,” freshman Sumner Wooldridge said. “However, because the juniors and seniors already do get a lot of attention and respect, I am glad that they are stepping back and allowing younger students to take some responsibility for their commendations.”

These changes were made in hopes of creating an awards ceremony that could honor all equally.

“We hadn’t looked at [the awards ceremony] deeply in a while,” Laba said. “It was time for us to take a deep look at it and see if it was the kind of awards ceremony that we wanted.”

“We’ve been doing the awards assembly the same way, mostly because that’s the way we’ve always done it.

We made a concerted effort to be thoughtful and deliberate so that the awards are fair.“ – Junior Class Dean Claire Mrozek

Summer classes to begin June 11 Students have the option to take economics, ethics, film and other classes during the summer to help create room in their schedules for the next school year.

“Summer health class will ease my schedule in order to leave time to study for honors classes and complete fine arts requirements,” freshman Sam Lindsey said.

Summer school courses will start on June 11and run through July 27.

Sophomore Caroline Massey will take ethics this summer to make room for yearbook.

“I took health going into freshman year as well,” Massey said. “It freed up time for me take more of what I’m interested in.”

NEWS

May 21, 2018 • Eagle Edition • 3

Construction on new Lower School to begin in late May

After graduation, the construction crew will break ground and begin the process of building the new Lower School.

“Construction will affect all of us, and next year won’t be easy to live with,” Assistant Head of School Ruth Burke said. “We will have to make some adjustments in how we learn, work and play around the construction area. However, in the midst of all the noise and dirt, there will be many learning opportunities.”

Once the construction area fence is put up on May 17 or 18, noise, traffic and inconvenient travel through campus are problems that will ensue.

“This won’t be easy or convenient,” Burke said. “We need to be prepared for all the headaches and feelings of loss that come with the excitement and vision for the future.”

With an open relationship between the faculty and students, the school will work to decrease future problems that might arise before construction ends in the summer of 2019.

“Our community and culture will be strengthened by this,” Burke said. “Those of us who are here living through this change will play a really important role in that history.”

–By Luke McCabe

Band, strings end school year with performance

Band and strings performed for the final time on April 30 and May 14, completing the school year.

“Every performance that they do shows a lot of improvement,” Band Director Cary Porter said. “Previous experience always helps to build on the next performance.”

This was Porter’s second full year at the school teaching Middle School as well as Upper School band.

“They played a traditional band piece and two jazz standards, one of which was to honor Jodie Trumble’s past band director,” Porter said. “The final piece was a performance with a video that we produced at Universal Studios earlier this year.”

Band and strings took a class trip to Orlando, Florida in February to perform.

“I wasn’t nervous for the performance because we all practiced a lot outside of school,” freshman Kenneth Borders said. “Mr. Porter really prepared us well.”

Strings also performed on May 14 for their final concert.

“We prepared a lot for this concert, and it was all worth it,” freshman Ali Sparrow said. “Strings has been really amazing, and Dr. Demian has been a great teacher to all of us.”

–By Gardiner Vose

Senior traditions end year, build excitement for future

Seniors closed the year with several traditions in anticipation of their graduation, ranging from bringing their dogs to school to the annual senior prank and uniform decorating.

Decorating their uniforms on their last day of school with the colors of the college they will be attending served as a way to both show the community their college plans and their excitement for the future.

Senior Matt Jones found uniform decoration day symbolic of the journey that all seniors have taken.

“It is always an exciting event to do because it symbolizes moving on to the next chapter in our lives and what all the hard work has paid off for,” Jones said.

The senior dog day on Thursday, May 3 was a way for seniors to liven up one of their final days of school. The halls filled with all from labs and golden retrievers to chihuahuas and dachshunds.

“People love dogs, and it initiates conversation and just changes the atmosphere of school for a day,” Jones said. “It is always a fun time.”

–By Sohaib Raza

New Arabic language class offers cultural insight, widens students’ course options

By Blair Batson Graphic by Grace Knudson

A

fter 11 years of teaching French, Laila Kharrat will start teaching Arabic next school year.

Arabic is Kharrat’s first language, and she grew up speaking it at home, along with spending many summers in the Middle East.

“I am personally interested in finally teaching my own native tongue to others,” Kharrat said. “I will really get to know my own culture and learn more about other countries that speak Arabic, as well as their cultures.”

The school decided to start offering the course in order to increase the students’ options for language choices.

“We have, as part of our mission, a focus on global studies, so learning a second language is essential,” Academic Dean Dr. Eric Boberg said. “We want to make sure that the courses we offer are actually global in perspective.”

In the class, students will not only learn the Arabic language, but also practices, perspectives and products of the Arabic world, such as calligraphy, music, dance, film, cuisine and literature.

“When you learn any language, culture is so important because that’s the thing that connects us as humans— we all share family, food, work, school and common experiences around the world,” Kharrat said. “I want [the class] to be fun and cool for everybody, including myself, so I definitely plan to include a lot of music, film, culture and food. To really be fluent in a language or to understand it, you have to know the things that go with it.”

Next year, only Arabic I will be offered, but in the years to follow, Arabic II will also be an option as the program grows. A full-year course, Arabic I will focus on teaching students to confidently learn the alphabet.

“All the other schools are saying it takes a whole year to do the alphabet alone, so it definitely needs to be a full year,” Kharrat said. “Then, for those who wish to continue and get in deeper, it will go a second year as well.”

Next year, the class will only be offered to juniors and seniors in order to give students time to complete the credit for the language they are currently taking.

“We are not trying to be exclusive, like you have to be a junior or senior to be in it, but we just want to make sure that it does not interfere with what they are already taking just because we are rolling out a new language,” Kharrat said.

“We have to see how it does. If it thrives and flourishes, and we see that the demand is there, and the numbers are there, then it may grow. If not, it may stay a junior-senior thing.”

Kharrat already speaks Arabic daily to her friends and family, and over the summer, she plans to brush up on grammar intricacies and build the curriculum.

“I will get to know my own language, history and culture,” Kharrat said. “I plan to do a lot of gathering music videos and seeing what the coolest thing people are listening to right now is, and I will be watching a lot of movies and just building my media base.”

Kharrat has already had students express interest in the class.

“I am projecting or expecting probably four to six in the first year,” Kharrat said. “I will be really shocked if it’s big enough for two sections in the first year—that would be amazing and awesome—but I don’t expect that. I have a feeling that as that first year starts, it won’t seem as weird or different, and people will be more interested over time.”

Kharrat believes any student who is open-minded and curious about things that are exotic or burnt out on their previous language should take the class.

“The Middle East is a really far away place, and the media is not very friendly,” Kharrat said. “The only coverage we ever hear is negative things, so my hope is that people will see past that and think, ‘Oh there are some really nice people who are Middle Eastern—I wonder what that is all about.’”

After taking Latin since sixth grade, sophomore Alexander Konradi is signed up for Arabic next year.

“I thought it would be cool to learn about cultures I have never really been introduced to,” Konradi said. “I am most excited to learn about and experience something new.”

Junior Emma Viquez, who is fluent in Spanish, took German throughout middle school and French since she was a freshman, plans to add Arabic I to her schedule next year.

“I am looking forward to the challenge of taking French IV honors and learning Arabic my senior year,” Viquez said.

“Hopefully, it won’t be that hard, but more of a mix of the languages I already know.”

The Arabic language benefits students in various areas for their future careers, such as the oil and gas industry, international trade and export and banking.

“When you learn a language—and this goes for any language—it is a mirror on yourself, and it’s a window to the world,” Kharrat said. “You learn about a whole other group of people, their customs, traditions, foods, rituals and geography, so it’s definitely a way to expand our knowledge on the world and to be the twenty-first century global citizens that we say we are going to be.”

“I will really get to know my own culture and learn more about other countries that speak Arabic, as well as their cultures.”

– French teacher Laila Kharrat

NEWS

4 • Eagle Edition • May 21, 2018

Alum Gray Malin to speak at graduation Photographer, CEO selected by senior and approved by Head of School Meredyth Cole

By Grace Knudson & Victoria Willox

A

lum Gray Malin ’04 will address the class Malin took his first steps into the of 2018 at their May 26 graduation. photography field by interning at Paramount Malin is a successful fine-art Studios straight out of college and creating photographer, CEO and a New York Times his photo series “Prada Marfa.” Malin has best-selling author. maintained his franchise by selling prints, The process of choosing the 2018 speaker phone cases and books. started in December 2017 with Head of School “​ Since I graduated, ESD has been very Meredyth Cole asking seniors supportive of my who they thought was the career,” Malin said. best candidate. Before Spring “I feel like students today “It is important, as an Break, senior Carly Weisberg to cherish the are doing jobs that make alum, was notified that the person community that you she had suggested was, in a lot of money and not came from and look for fact, chosen. ways to stay in touch “At first, I didn’t think I something they truly with your roots. Even was going to offer an opinion love. It’s very inspiring though I do not live for a speaker,” Weisberg said. in Dallas anymore, I “But then I remembered and unique that Malin still make sure to come about Malin, and it was so does something he cares home and connect with exciting that Meredyth Cole people in the larger about, and he is making a community every year.” chose my idea for a speaker.”

After discovering his As the year ends, profit.” passion for photography Malin looks to share during his junior year in — Senior Carly Weisberg about the importance high school, Malin pursued of alumni and how the a career in it, which led him upcoming graduates to the successful business he runs today. Malin should move forward in their careers and their hopes to set an example for his audience. overall lifestyles.

“I thought he would be a good speaker “I [want to] advise the Class of 2018 t​ o t​ ake​​ because he is an ESD alum who has created the tenets of ESD with them ​and remember a career doing something he loves,” Weisberg to ​not only k​ eep serving others, but to also said. “I feel like students today are doing jobs stay involved with one another as well as that make a lot of money and not something the community that helped get them where they truly love. It’s very inspiring and unique they are today,” Malin said. “I would love for that Malin does something he cares about, and students graduating from ESD to follow in my he is making a profit.” footsteps.”

SNAPSHOT: Inside his office, Gray Malin prepares to work on his photography. Malin graduated in 2004 and started his own business. “Typically, an idea pops into my mind, and then I just keep thinking about it until it evolves into reality,” Malin said. “I swear, every single day a new piece is coming and going.” Photo courtesy of Gray Malin

UP, UP, AWAY: Using a helicopter to capture aerial images, Malin photographs scenic views beneath him. Malin took photography when he was in high school. “From above, the people with their umbrellas and towels create patterns that are eye-catching and unique,” Malin said. “It began with the beaches above Miami... I was hooked.” Photo courtesy of Gray Malin

graduations homecomings parties

6 • Eagle Edition • May 21, 2018

LIFE

Final farewell

Three faculty members reflect on time at ESD

By Emily Delgado

Mary Ellen n Daviso

“

A lot of times, I tell people she’s like my second mom because she always pushes me to do my best.

”

— Senior Stefanie Melgar

After working for five years as the Upper School Counselor, Mary Ellen Davison will leave to work at a private practice next school year.

Before coming to ESD in 2013, Davison worked for seven years as a mental health provider to mentally ill adults in low-income families and opened a clinic in Grand Prairie where she provided therapy to families.

“I loved doing it, but it just honestly got really sad,” Davison said. “It’s really hard working with people who don’t have a lot of resources, especially when the state just keeps cutting services for people that need the most help. I needed a change, but I do miss it because I learned so much.”

Davison worked as a counselor at Ursuline for six years afterwards. She then joined ESD. “I feel like over the course of time that I’ve been here, I’ve been impressed on how open the students are and willing to just say, ‘Can I come in and see you?’ or ‘I’m worried about a friend,’” she said.

Although unsure of plans for the future, World and U.S. History teacher Colleen Durkin is leaving after teaching at ESD for three years.

“I knew that I didn’t want to have a desk job anymore,” Durkin said. “I wanted to come back into the classroom, so I got online and saw that ESD had a position open. I came and taught—it just fit.”

Durkin plans on continuing to teach history to high school students.

“For whatever reason, I understand teenagers,” she said. “I feel like I get to know [the students] in a really different way when I see [them] every day than someone in an administrative position does.”

Durkin said she will miss her students.

“I can’t take my kids with me,” Durkin said.

“The good news is that [they will] all get to go on a new adventure, graduate from here and do something awesome that I will hopefully keep

Marta Milian

Today Social media influencer and YouTuber Jake Paul will come to Irving for the debut of the “Team 10 Tour.” The event will feature live music, merchandise and challenges.

Now - June 2 Scheduled on Saturdays from 10 to 11 a.m., the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum will offer guided Bluebonnet Tours.

seeing.”

Her junior advisory said that Durkin transformed their relationships with each other and made junior year bearable.

“To say she’s made an impact on our whole advisory is a huge understatement,” junior Elizabeth Konradi said. “Creating bonds with students is something that comes so naturally to her, so getting to know us on a personal level has helped us all grow closer as an advisory.”

Durkin is considering the possibility of returning to teach at a public high school.

“Independent schools have so many opportunities and expectations on students, and I don’t see why they aren’t available at public schools,” she said. “I want to take some resources to those public schools and help establish a rigorous environment in those places.”

Finishing her twenty-first year at ESD, Spanish teacher Marta Milian is retiring to spend more time with her husband, live in the countryside and travel.

“Though I have mixed feelings about leaving, I know that I can’t stay here forever,” she said. “The time has come for a new beginning.”

After graduate school, Milian worked to help adults receive their high school diplomas. She then became the director of an employment-training program and a teacher at Brookhaven Community College for six years before coming to ESD in 1997.

“I never had the picture of teaching at a private school for 21 years,” she said. “However, ESD is very similar to the school I went to in Cuba, so it was a natural transition for me to fit in.”

Milian’s best memories have been her involvement with admissions and diversity because of her goal to recruit more Hispanic students.

Davison hopes to be able to spend more time with her two small children since she will be able to control her schedule. “[My kids] spend a lot of time at school and aftercare,” Davison said. “I just needed some more flexibility to make sure I get to see my kids and they get to see their mom.”

Davison said she will miss her freshman advisory the most when she leaves.

“It was hard to tell them,” Davison said. “They’re just a really sweet group and get along well. It was nice to get to know kids in a casual, comfortable environment.”

She promises to visit them occasionally at lunch and support them at their games.

“She has been the best advisor,” freshman Ava Thompson said. “She has created a safe space within our advisory that has allowed us to grow so close.

ESD won’t be the same without her.”

Colleen Durkin

“We want more qualified Hispanic students to have the same opportunities,” she said. “Working with those students and their families has been something I’ll never forget.”

She is known by her students to have formed close relationships with each of them.

“She’s very supportive and gives the best advice,” senior Stefanie Melgar said. “A lot of times, I tell people she’s like my second mom because she always pushes me to do my best.”

Milian believes she learns something new from her students every day.

“The biggest thrill that I get from teaching is when the student realizes that something makes sense and they have learned something,” she said. “And when students come back and tell me that my class had an impact on them, that makes it all worthwhile.”

Main Events

June 9 Experience the ultimate three-day foodie festival, the Taste of Dallas, in Fair Park. Try delicious bites from more than 60 of Dallas’ best restaurants, dabbling in various cuisines ranging from Tex-Mex to barbecue. Tickets start at $20 and can be bought online at http://tasteofdallas. org/tickets.html.

June 14 Post Malone and 21 Savage will perform at the Toyota Music Factory at 7:30 p.m. The tour will promote Now - June 30 Post Malone’s new album “Beerbongs and Bentleys” With delicious desserts and surprises behind and 21 Savage’s album “21XXX.” Ticket prices range every door, Sweet Tooth Hotel delivers five sugar- from $228 to $614 and can be found online at www. themed interactive rooms based on popular treats. ticketmaster.com.

Sweet Tooth Hotel gives interactive experience Art meets dessert at the Sweet Tooth Hotel, which opened May 18 and closes June 30.

Located at 2316 Victory Park Lane, Sweet Tooth Hotel brings together works by some of Dallas’s most innovative artists and a curated selection of sweets to purchase. Ticket prices range from $20 to $40 and can be found at http://sweettoothhotel. com/pages/tickets.

“It seems really interesting and kind of bizarre,” freshman Cleo Neuhoff said. “I’ve never heard of anything similar to this, and it’s not something you see every day.”

LIFE

May 21, 2018 • Eagle Edition • 7

THE LIST

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

10

Not so famous. Kanye West’s music is banned from many radio stations in protest of his recent comment about how “slavery was a choice.”

Blast at the beach. Hawaii island Kilauea erupts on May 3, taking out lavish beach homes.

NRA: Yay or nay? President Trump speaks about recent proposals for tougher gun control at an NRA convention in Dallas.

Unbreakable? “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt” is set to be canceled after a season four finale that will be released in late 2018.

Put a ring on it. Meghan Markle and Prince Harry tied the knot on May 19 at Windsor Castle.

Witten in history. Jason Witten, 15-year tight end for the Dallas Cowboys, officially retired on May 3.

To infinity and beyond.

Marvel’s “Avengers: Infinity War” destroys box office records and joins the billiondollar box office club.

Shape of you. Kim Kardashian releases a scandalous new KKW Body Fragrance bottle shaped like her nude body.

Going solo. “Solo: A Star Wars Story” arrives in theaters on May 25, which tells the lifestory of Han Solo.

Jumbo-lineup. On May 4, JMBLYA, an annual Texas music festival, featured an array of famous hip-hop stars including Migos, Trippie Redd, J. Cole and others.

THE

INTERN

WORX program assigns summer internships to rising seniors

Story by Evelyn Zhao

Graphic by Evelyn Zhao & Victoria Willox

A

n envelope clutched in her hand, junior Karenna Traylor anxiously opens it, hoping to receive her dream internship.

The wait is over. As she glances at the letter describing the summer internship she was assigned through the WORX internship program, she eagerly runs to tell her friends the news: Traylor was matched with her top choice­, KOCH. That same day, 86 other juniors received their matched internship as applicants through the WORX program, which provides students with opportunities for personal development, career awareness and exposure to their fields of interest. During these summer internships, students work in real-world job environments from two weeks to a month, ruling out or confirming career possibilities.

Traylor, who is interested in majoring in business, she was matched to work at KOCH, a fashion clothing line in the Dallas Design District, where she will help with behind-the-scenes photoshoots, plan events and manage KOCH’s social media account.

“I was really excited to get this [internship] because I’ll be working with [both] business and fashion, which is something I’m really interested in,” Traylor said. “I’m excited to do something other than sitting in an office. Mostly, I’m looking forward to seeing [the designer’s] sketches come to life and seeing what it’s like behind the scenes, especially with photoshoots, because I’ve never been to or been able to help with anything like that.”

Matched with his top choice at the FBI unit in Dallas, junior John Heldman will shadow the communications and social media staff of the FBI, work on solving a wide range of cases, help write detailed reports and use social media to find evidence regarding cases.

“FBI special agents came to speak to our class about what they do, and I thought it was so cool, which kind of got me interested in criminal justice and law enforcement,” Heldman said. “I watched NCIS and a bunch of criminal shows, and

I want to see if [the FBI] lives up to the TV shows. My goal is to learn as much as I can about the FBI and really grow my interest in the field to help me in my decision of what to study in college.”

Junior Emma Viquez was also successfully matched with her desired internship and looks to pursue a future in communications. Interning at the Dallas Cowboys Stadium, she will experience working with the stadium’s broadcasting team for two weeks.

“I want to work in international communications in college and international studies,” Viquez said. “I’m not quite sure if I want to use that in either the sports field or in a political role, [but] either way, the internship will help me learn how it works in the real world.”

Before receiving their internships, all juniors were required to submit an application through the college guidance office, identifying the fields they were interested in pursuing.

The final step included students participating in a 30-minute interview with parents of the Dad’s Partnership Board in order to simulate the real-world experience of applying for a job.

“Going through the application process, doing an interview and discussing your future career and college major options are very valuable for students,” WORX founder Robert Shive said. “It is one thing to research and read about careers, but to actually work in an office or in the field is a wonderful opportunity for real-world experience.”

Founded six years ago, the WORX Program was created when Shive, along with other members of the Dad’s Partnership Board, discussed ideas that

would allow parents to become more involved with Upper School students. One member came up with the idea of summer internships, which Shive further developed, and after the school’s approval, WORX was officially implemented in the summer of 2013. “[This program] reflects very well on your college application and your resume after college graduation,” Shive said. “Showing a prospective employer that you have this experience sets you apart from other applicants.”

Behind the scenes, the successful matches are not by chance. A committee of parents from the Fine Arts Network and the Dad’s Partnership Board meet to discuss each student’s WORX application, notes from their WORX interview and their academic progress in order to match them with the internship that best fits their interests and the career they are interested in pursuing.

“It is a very difficult process, considering student and partner calendar schedules, the ranking of careers and the very subjective nature of what students and partners are looking for,” Shive said.

“Students should definitely carve out as much of their summer as possible to spend with their WORX partner.”

Starting with 28 students in 2013, the WORX program is constantly growing in the number of applications it receives each year. This summer alone, 86 students applied, partly because of the benefits of character development, mentoring and lifeskills that the program boasts. “[Internships are] a great opportunity for juniors because the best way to learn is through experience, and [it’s a great opportunity] getting to be where you might actually work in the future,” Heldman said.

“It’s just such a great opportunity that a lot of kids don’t have.”

“It is one thing to research and read about careers, but to actually work in an office or in the field is a wonderful opportunity for realworld experience.”

— WORX founder Robert Shive

LIFE

8 • Eagle Edition • May 21, 2018

Finals fails

By Melissa Rivera

From taking the wrong exam to getting in a car wreck, students share their worst exam experiences

POPTOPIC

Autumn Neurohr, Senior “I pulled an all-nighter for Mr. Salz’s World History exam the night before, so I was super tired and was leaving school to get food before my next exam. I made a left turn on Montwood. This giant truck was speeding and T-boned my car. I heard this loud honk, and everything went white. I somehow ended up safely in someone’s driveway. I later found out that the truck driver was an undercover cop.”

Judah Powell, Freshman “Right before our math exam, my calculator died, and I started freaking out. I went to the Eagles Nest looking for batteries, but they didn’t have any, so I asked my friends if they had a spare calculator. No one did, so I got really stressed.

Once the exam started, I spent the whole time sorting out problems requiring a calculator. I later got a C on the exam and was informed they had spare calculators. Not one of my finest moments.”

Walker Lay, Junior “On the day of my math exam, I walked into the extended time room as one of the first people there, and I looked around for my test. I couldn’t find my test, so I asked a proctor, and she led me to an Algebra II test. The only problem was that I was in Honors Algebra II. I couldn’t find my teacher either, so I took the wrong exam. I ended up having to take my exam on the make-up day.”

Sabrina Gies, Sophomore “I was taking my Spanish exam when I suddenly noticed a drop of blood on my paper. I realized my nose was bleeding. I grabbed a wad of tissues and walked to the bathroom. It was so embarrassing because I had to walk across the gym in front of whole school. Señora Garcini saw me and was really confused, so she followed me out of the room and I had to explain the situation to her. I ended up having to finish the exam in the extended time room.”

LIFE

May 21, 2018 • Eagle Edition • 9

Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt This American sitcom follows the life of w fun, loving adult Kimmy, who was raised underground in a religious cult for 15 years. Once she was found, she made a move to The Big Apple. Kimmy finds a flamboyant roommate, Titus, who at first uses her for money. The duo ends up bonding with each other and their upstairs landlord, Lillian. This series displays adult hardships in a satirical way and currently has three seasons with the fourth coming out May 30.

The Blacklist

This thriller series leads with prison escapee Raymond “Red” Reddington forced to join the FBI to hunt down the world’s most wanted criminals on his “blacklist.” As the story unfolds through the seasons, Reddington progresses from being a criminal to a tragic hero.

Reddington’s secret motives and relationship with FBI agent Elizabeth Keen cause dramatic plot twists and character development. This show displays a true bingewatching experience with four seasons, and the fifth season is currently airing. We recommend “The Blacklist” to anyone intrigued with the human psyche or anyone in search of a “killer” storyline.

beach-side bingeing

Westworld

From science fiction to musicals, the five best TV shows for the summer

This up-and-coming sci-fi will leave your heart pounding. The story takes place in a futuristic theme park, where guests act out Western storylines with robot “hosts” who appear human but are incapable of understanding that they are not like the park visitors.

The first season came out in 2016, and season two aired its first episode on April 22, with more to come throughout the summer. We recommend this series to anyone who loves intriguing plots, non-stop adventure and all things sci-fi.

By Grace Knudson & Victoria Willox

Crazy Ex-Girlfriend

This musical comedy captures the story of Rebecca Bunch, a successful lawyer with mental health challenges. She quits her job after having a breakdown and moves to a small, unappealing town in pursuit of her childhood boyfriend.

Throughout the three seasons, the characters break out in song sporadically, often about random events, which adds to the episodes’ comedic value. The show premiered in October 2015 and is renewed for a fourth and final season coming in the fall. This show is definitely for bingers who like cheesy dramas, jokes and more. Get up-todate on Netflix.

New Girl

This classic comedy follows quirky Jessica Day, a young teacher searching for a new home after breaking up with her longtime boyfriend. After an unusual introduction via a Craigslist ad, she finds herself living in an apartment with three single men her age. Together, the roommates embark on a journey, forming close friendships, love and a greater understanding of themselves. This series includes seven seasons, with the seventh and final season having ended May 15. If you want to know whether or not Jess gets her happy ending, or if you are in need of a lighthearted comedy, this show is a solid choice. Find it on Netflix.

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‘s the Senior Class

1

10 • Eagle Edition • May 21, 2018

CENTER SPREAD

[SUMMER]

checklist

Goat Yoga Richardson 446 Highland Blvd, Richardson 75081

Goat Yoga Richardson offers outdoor yoga classes with mini goats who jump and

wander around. The goats are known to

scratch, nudge, step and jump on those

who attend the class. Ten goats and one

mini-horse reside on the property. Classes are an hour long, and online reservations

must be made before attending. Tickets are $25 per person.

2

3

ESCAPE THE ROOM

11661 Preston Road #184, Dallas 75230 Starting at $28 per person, Escape The Room offers four

challenging rooms to attempt to escape in under 60

minutes: “The Agency,” inspired by James Bond; “Western Bank Heist,” Wild West themed; the “Dig,” inspired by Indiana Jones and the Da Vinci Code; and the most

popular, “The Apartment.” Rooms are rented out to groups, who can team up with other groups that have the same

room. There is no minimum number of participants to start, but there is a maximum for each room.

IFLY INDOOR SKYDIVING

8380 S.H. 121, Frisco 75034 IFly Indoor Skydiving offers people, even those as young

as three-years-old, the opportunity to experience the thrill

of skydiving without having to leap from a plane. After completing the necessary paperwork, a flight training

lesson is given before anyone is allowed to suit up into

the necessary equipment and head to the flying chamber.

A certified flight instructor in the flying chamber assists

through the entire experience. IFly does not offer one flight per person, but rather packages of two to five. A package of two flights is $79.95 per person.

5

4

USA Volleyball Open National Championships

650 S Griffin St, Dallas 75202 The 89th annual USA Volleyball Open National

Championships will be held at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center from May 25 to May 30. The Open usually has around 500 teams competing with over

6,000 players between the ages of 18 to 80. The first

match is scheduled for 8 a.m. and the last is scheduled for 8 p.m. This event is free.

CENTER SPREAD

]

May 21, 2018 • Eagle Edition • 11

8

Nine quirky, local activities to help beat summer boredom

mesquite rodeo

1818 Rodeo Drive, Mesquite 75149 The Mesquite Rodeo takes place every Saturday night at 7:30 p.m. in the summer from June 2 to Aug. 25. The rodeo consists of two

Story and graphics by Emily Delgado

types of competitions: roughstock and timed events. Roughstock events include bull riding, bareback and saddle bronc while

the timed events consist of team roping, tie down roping, steer wrestling and barrel racing. Concerts and laser shows are also

included in the experience. Tickets depend on seating and usually range between $10 to $38.

Casual cat cafe

7264 Glenview Drive, Richland Hills 76180 The Casual Cat Cafe allows people to spend time

with cats in need of adoption while having coffee or

participating in activities. The cafe offers yoga, painting and crafting classes with their adorable cats. Prices are $10 for two hours or $15 for a whole day. Every cat is

eligible for adoption and 100 percent of adoption fees are given to the shelter of the adopted cat.

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7

Lone star fencing center 13701 Dallas Parkway, Dallas 75240

The Lone Star Fencing Center offers fencing lessons

to children and adults without any prior experience or

knowledge of the sport. Classes are taught by coaches

certified by the United States Fencing Association and

are based on level of difficulty: musketeer, junior, junior elite and

9

elite. Prices depend on the level of difficulty, and membership starts at $65 per month.

Horseback riding at river ranch at Texas horse park

811 Pemberton Hill Road, Dallas 7517 The Texas Horse Park at River Ranch offers hour-long guided

horse rides through the Trinity Forest. The park is open all year

round but is closed on Tuesdays. The park also offers $15 pony rides for children under the age of nine. The prices for adults

depend on the level of difficulty of the trail, the beginner trail ride going at $40 per person, the intermediate trail ride $50 and the advanced trail ride $60.

Ropes course at trinity forest adventure park

1820 Dowdy Ferry Road, Dallas 75217

The Trinity Forest Adventure Park is a high ropes course park that offers military-style obstacle courses varying in difficulty, such

as ziplines, tightropes, cargo nets and wobble bridges. All of the park’s obstacle courses are self-guided, allowing participants to challenge themselves at their own pace. General admission for adults is $54.95 for three hours at the park.

May 21, 2018 • Eagle Edition • 12

OPINIONS STAFF STANCE

AP classes need to focus on more than passing a test

T

he decision to take an AP class is a route that many students choose to take. It shows that they are willing to challenge themselves by taking a course with a rigorous curriculum, and they expect to learn more about a topic than they would have if they had taken a regular class. While it is true that AP classes typically cover more material than a regular class would, there is one major downside to taking these classes: Most are completely geared toward taking a single AP exam in the Spring.

In a school filled with students eager to learn, most don’t mind putting in the extra work to get a lot out of a class. Looking back, we feel many students have been placed at a disadvantage. Instead of focusing on gaining a deeper understanding of the material they are covering, many just gain a deeper understanding of how to take yet another standardized test. For many, they walk into the class at the beginning of the year with one goal: to pass the final exam for college credit.

Throughout our sophomore and junior years, our classes had timed, in-class essays to simulate the AP exam, where we had to include very specific analysis of certain details to fulfill the requirements of the rubric that teachers would use to score our exams.

There was nothing profound about the content in many of the essays we were writing, even if we got a perfect score. We were simply getting all of the required elements into one quickly drafted, sloppily-written essay. Most students feel prepared for the exam but miss out on a lot of the information that they had to skim through because there wasn’t enough time to

cover the complete College Board curriculum.

Simply preparing for a test by memorizing material until you feel comfortable for the final exam and forgetting everything you learned as soon as you walk out of the door is not learning.

According to a New York Times article titled “Rethinking Advanced Placement” by Christopher Drew, “The College Board created the first exams at the behest of elite preparatory schools, which wanted to convince colleges that their best students could dart right into advanced work.” The exams were designed to test students on what they would be expected to know as a college freshman, but instead of teaching a more difficult class with more material, schools began to offer classes that taught students how to take the test rather than how to understand the content.

It’s more of a struggle when multiple teachers teach the same AP class, causing portions of the grade level to learn to pass the test versus another portion to delve deep into the information. This can cause blatant unfairness as some students are forced to learn more information than others. A lack of extra information like this can make the final exam much more difficult for some.

Students cannot possibly absorb and understand all of the information on these tests.

There is just too much of it, so they resort to memorization instead of trying to understand the subject. As a school that prides itself in preparing students for the real world, relying upon memorization isn’t the only skill we should encourage. The idea that grades are the only component that matters to a college is outdated thinking. Now, colleges are looking for what

59

41

percent of students believe less emphasis should be placed on AP tests*

percent of students believe doing well on the test is most important* *according to a May 13 poll of 51 juniors

makes a student different. They want students to have career interests, community involvement internships and developmental experiences.

While grades are still important, they are not the main factor that determine what school a student can get into.

Students panic when they don’t understand a subject and resort to memorization, thinking that they just need the grade, then forget what they “learned.” If classes are geared toward the

understanding of a subject, grades should display how well the student is comprehending.

Memorization may be beneficial for taking a test, but understanding the material is better for students in the long run. Students are more than a test score.

We hope to foster a conversation among teachers about moving away from taking practice tests and steering toward meaningful writing and deep subject understanding.

On the

EDGE

Do you think that AP classes should be geared more

toward doing very well on the test or just learning?

EDITORS-IN-CHIEF Anastasia Sotiropoulos Madison Willox

SPORTS EDITORS Lauren Egger Lauren Weber

COPY EDITORS Jiaying Fu Evelyn Zhao

BUSINESS MANAGER John Calvert

DESIGN/PHOTO EDITORS Melissa Rivera Victoria Willox NEWS EDITOR Grace Knudson OPINIONS EDITOR Alan Benítez LIFE EDITORS Emily Delgado Sydney Rezaie

DIGITAL RELATIONS Blair Batson STAFF WRITERS Zander Knight, Luke McCabe, Sohaib Raza, Gardiner Vose ADVISER DiAngelea Millar

Clay Watson, ‘21 “Students should both learn the material and understand it, but with certain AP classes, the kids just try to pass at the end of the year.

Some classes don’t prepare you enough for the final, so it’s hard to do either. I believe that it is good to actually learn the material, but also important to pass.”

Davis Sutter, ‘19

Meera Gangasani, ‘20 “AP classes should be aligned with learning and taking the test because part of taking the class is developing a passion about what you are interested in.

If you’re just strictly trying to pass the test, you might not get as much out of the class as you should be.”

“AP classes should be about learning to take the test and what is going to be on it and how to prepare for that, but there needs to be a balance between just having some fun classes where we learn and having classes where we strenuously prepare for the AP exam.”

Tarushi Mittal, ‘18 “From personal experience, spending the whole year learning how an AP exam will be structured and how to structure your own responses to get a higher score is more useful in the short term. In the long term, learning about a subject as a whole is more beneficial.”

Eagle Edition MISSION STATEMENT The Eagle Edition is a student-produced newspaper published seven times a year with the intent to educate in a professional manner and provide a voice for the Community. The Eagle Edition earned Gold and Silver Crowns from the Columbia Scholastic Press Association, Pacemaker Awards from the National Scholastic Press Association and Gold Stars from the Interscholastic League Press Conference. Circulation is 1000 copies, and the student population is 667.

EDITORIAL POLICY The staff abides by the Society of Professional Journalists’ Code of Ethics. The opinions expressed in this newspaper do not necessarily reflect the views of the adviser, faculty or staff.

This is a student-run publication and a forum for student voices. All images in the Eagle Edition are student produced, republished with permission, are in the public domain or fall within fair- use practices for criticism and news reporting.

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Please contact the Business Manager: calvertj @esdallas.org.

BYLINE POLICY All articles, graphics, photos, art, columns, page design, reviews or other material produced by Advanced Journalism students carry the creator’s byline with the exception of the Staff Stance, which is the official, collective voice of Eagle Edition.

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The school address is 4100 Merrell Road, Dallas, TX 75229. Subscriptions to any continental US street address are $25 per year.

FOLLOW US ONLINE Twitter: @eagleeditionesd Instagram: @theeagleedition

OPINIONS

13 • Eagle Edition • May 21, 2018

Kanye for President?

LETTER FROM THE EDITORS

Our entry into our new roles of editors-inchief was unique to say the least. We found out our positions from two different states, Anastasia running up the stairs at the end of a March school day, Madison on FaceTime from her dorm in New York City. We screamed when we saw our names under “v36 Editorsin-Chief” on the positions list plastered on the J-Lab’s door.

As cliché as it may sound, it was a dream come true for the both of us.

We’ve come a long way since our first day of J1 class. Two advisers, countless interviews and hundreds of late-night and weekend deadline hours later, the moment we’ve been working toward is finally here. And we could not be more ecstatic.

But as we look to the future of the paper, we cannot help but thank the graduating seniors for their dedication and irreplaceable vibe.

Taylor, you’re a real trooper with those hundred senior headshots. We were impressed on day one when you pulled through with that cupcake review, proving that you can join staff second semester senior year and still rock it.

Amanda, you’re an MVP. Although it was your first year, you shook us with your impressive designs. We’ll miss your in-depth, passionate sports stories—but it’s OK, we’ll be reading you in Sports Illustrated one day.

John, we don’t know how Millar will ever forgive you for missing that all-denim photoshoot at the quarry, but thank you for surviving as the only senior guy on staff. You always came through no matter your story, whether it be a Mexican burger review or indie song run-down.

Gwyneth, we will have to learn how to survive without your incredible ability to copp us Torchy’s—night or day. You leave behind your beloved plastic dinosaurs, but more than that, you leave behind a legacy of what it means to have fun on staff. From cookie-decorating with Gumdrop to changing our desktop backgrounds, you made our deadlines hilarious.

Gillian, although you had some questionable font choices (ie: the iconic bacon font), we’ll miss your uniqueness. Who will we have to run the Instagram? We know you love us, somewhere deep down in that FBI-agent seriousness, and we love you, too. Just don’t call any coaches at Sewanee.

Margaret, you were a ray of senioritis sunshine. Although you never knew quite what to write for your column, your constant positive energy and facemasks were much appreciated.

Meredith, you are our favorite troll. Your British accent became truly ~iconic~ (too iconic...Millar picked it up), and we won’t be able to drink Diet Coke without thinking of you and your addiction. Not to get too tender, but we’ll miss you so much. Rawr XD. Julia, you are our beloved bad cop. The J-Lab will be eerily silent without your Broadway singing and dramatic gossip tangents. We will always remember you for your multitasking (“parallel processing”), but more than that, we’ll remember everything you taught us. To say we’ll miss you would be an understatement.

Kathleen, you’re the GOAT. We know we will fail to make you cry, no matter how sentimental we get, but here goes: You and Julia were our role models. We watched you two when we were sophomores as you were doing more than any juniors should have to.

Kathleen, you were compassionate with the right tinge of sassy. Also, the best sleepover host, hands-down.

We hope to make you proud.

To v36, Anastasia Sotiropoulos & Madison Willox, Editors-in-Chief

Rapper’s potential 2024 campaign puts celebrities’ role in politics into question

A

s absurd as it may sound, according to the Constitution, I, 16-year-old Anastasia Sotiropoulos, meet all the official qualifications to rule on the nation’s highest court: as a Supreme Court Justice, there are none. All I’m missing is a presidential appointment and Senate approval, neither of which I see myself getting anytime soon.

Becoming President, on the other hand, has a few more qualifications, but not many: be at least 35, a resident of the U.S. for 14 years and a natural born citizen.

And these are all qualifications rapper Kanye West fulfills. Yikes.

Last month, West tweeted out an ominous “2024,” a cryptic reference to what we all presume is his plan to run in the 2024 presidential election. He sent this out to his 28 million followers a day before tweeting the infamous “We are both dragon energy” statement about his relationship with President Trump.

“I sit in clubs and I’m like, ‘Wow, I’ve got five years before I go and run for office and I’ve got a lot of research to do,’” Kanye said in a 2015 Q-and-A with Vanity Fair.

He’s funny but can’t be serious, I thought.

It’ll blow over, I thought.

This must be some kind of publicity stunt or attempt to become (or solidify his status) as a living meme, I thought.

And yet, three years later, here we are.

Like I said, there are only three qualifications to run for president. According to our Constitution, nothing is stopping him.

Take Trump—he was a businessman and TV personality with no political experience, but still managed to outnumber a former First Lady, senator and Secretary of State by 74 electoral college votes.

The impossible is possible.

Kanye himself used Trump as an example when explaining his presidential aspirations.

“Rappers are philosophers of our now, celebrities are the influencers of our now,” he

explained in 2016. “Just look at the president.

[Trump] wasn’t in politics and won.”

I find his logic incredibly, inexplicably flawed.

Although there’s nothing wrong with having respect for the self-proclaimed “LeBron of Rhyme” as an artist, fashion designer, entrepreneur and as someone who’s made a name for himself, associating the ability to influence the public with the ability to be Commander in Chief of our armed forces, veto Congress’ laws, enact an executive order, push a legislative agenda and conduct foreign policy is absolutely insane.

When did being able to spit a beat become synonymous with being able to send troops without a declaration of war?

I know, I know. He’s Yeezy. The same man whose, “I’m [turning] the Grammys into the Yammys”received 17,000 retweets. The same individual who tweeted, “I leave my emojis Bart Simpson color” and garnered over

154,000 likes—the population of a Dallas suburb. Let’s not forget that he called 400 years of slavery a choice. He’s a pop culture icon, but an out-there one at that, and a vast majority of the population isn’t taking the “Ye vs. The People” campaign seriously.

However, what I find alarming is our tendency to take celebrities’ political opinions as seriously as we do. Knowing what lyric fits a beat best doesn’t equate to knowing what political stance fits our nation best, so a celebrity’s choice to promote their opinions shouldn’t be as newsworthy as it is.

Although “Keeping Up with the Kardashians: White House Edition” would be entertaining to say the least, this is Kanye just being Kanye… I hope.

Until 2024, let’s all focus on musicians’ music and politicians’ politics.

–Anastasia Sotiropoulos

YouTubers deserve the public’s respect

Media stereotypes create assumptions, harm YouTubers’ way of life

N

early everyone has seen the hundreds of thousands of people, who put themselves out there on the platform known as YouTube.

You would be hard-pressed in today’s society to find someone who

By Zander Knight has never heard of Pewdiepie, Logan Paul or someone similar.

For those content creators, YouTube is everything from their personal lives, to their main income, to an outlet for their emotions.

Some people pour hours upon hours of labor and love to cultivate their channels into something that reflects their beliefs.

For the most part, YouTube is a realm of creators who care deeply about their content because they are passionate about their work.

But everyone slips up from time to time, and when YouTubers do, it is out there for everyone to see, right on millions of screens.

And as soon as those mistakes happen, they spread like wildfire across every corner of the internet, degrading the individual and YouTube as a whole.

But why? Why does this happen? And how

can YouTube stop being an outlet for blame and disgrace amongst the community?

When Logan Paul had his “incident” with his video featuring a dead body, unsurprisingly, the media was all over it.

And why shouldn’t they? After all, it is a journalist’s job to report the news accurately.

But here is where the problem arises.

The average, everyday person does not have an intimate knowledge of YouTube and how it works, but when they hear about a 22-year-old man making upwards of 13 million dollars a year vlogging a dead body, the common person will begin to, of course, do as all uninformed people do: make assumptions.

If all anyone hears about YouTube is that it is a place for conceited brats to flaunt their wealth and new watches or a place for wildly inappropriate and disturbing videos, all people will think about YouTube is that it’s simply: an outlet for conceited brats to flaunt their wealth. This notion completely disregards the other 46 million creators.

These assumptions, as generalizing and degrading as they might seem, take their toll on content creators the most.

After notorious YouTuber Pewdiepie casually let a racial slur slip in September of 2017, public outcry from not only the media, but the viewers themselves, caused YouTube

to roll out ad regulations so strict and so wildly unpredictable, that creators have only given it one name: The Adpocalypse.

Regulations such as these have destroyed much of the trust that YouTubers once had for the platform. The company has caused many smaller-scale YouTubers to fear for their livelihood if their videos happen to become demonetized.

If anything is to change in the way YouTube is portrayed in the media, then people need to start realizing that YouTube is not only a job, but a way of life. Nearly every other occupation has at least some sort of respect associated with it, yet YouTubers have none. Nearly every single job, no matter what the job is, has some respect built around it, but YouTubers don’t get to enjoy that luxury.

Instead of people viewing their job as legitimate, they are repeatedly berated by the media and portrayed in poor lighting time and time again. We are all taught at a very young age to always respect each other and never judge a book by its cover. Why can’t we give that same respect to YouTubers?

A few poor decisions made by select individuals shouldn’t have sweeping repercussions to the entire community.

It is the least we can do to treat these content creators with the respect that they deserve.

OPINIONS

May 21, 2018 • Eagle Edition • 14

Graphic by Luke McCabe and Anastasia Sotiropoulos

Senate showdown

BETO O’ROURKE: Fights for education, TED CRUZ: Appeals to the far-right voter with supports DREAMers and immigrant families tax reform policies, social conservatism Democrat Beto O’Rourke stands for two issues of paramount importance that I strongly believe in: immigration and education reform. Hot-button issues in late 2017 mainly involved the President’s controversial remarks about specific immigration statuses, including Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals and Temporary Protected Status. I deeply believe O’Rourke’s statement about the United States depending on immigrants to contribute their competence to our society as America grows and evolves.

There are endless problems with immigration in the United States, as well as education in public school systems. Our current Secretary

By Alan Benítez of Education has a vendetta against public schools and only wants to institute charter schools. I am inspired by O’Rourke’s perspective on education.

He believes that every student deserves a quality education in order to reach their full potential and find their path to individual success. O’Rourke seeks to ensure that public tax dollars are not given to private schools in order to increase public funding for low-income communities.

O’Rourke seems to make the best impression on citizens in the state of Texas. The most recent polls from the Texas Tribune recorded a 46 to 44 percent ratio of people who approve of him versus those who do not.

Devastating current events such as the school shooting in Parkland, Florida demonstrate our Senate’s need for candidates such as O’Rourke who advocate for victims. As a current member of the House Committee for Armed Services, he has all of the experience to make real progress in enforcing limitations on gun ownership to defending the students of both Texas and the rest of the nation. High schoolers fear the possibility of a school shooter entering their campus. Considering the lackluster response our government gave Parkland students after the tragedy, we need someone who will acknowledge the views of our youngest and most vulnerable citizens.

The future of our nation depends on citizens voting for candidates who actively seek reform over tradition. Although Cruz is the son of a Cuban immigrant, he does not prioritize immigration. If Cruz is elected, we should expect him to do everything to fight against the DREAM Act and prevent the modernization of the visa system.

This lack of support would prevent immigrants from having the opportunity for employment—something that would benefit both those individuals and the general economy.

If O’Rourke makes it to the U.S. Senate, I hope to see him accomplish his progressive goals regarding education, immigration and equity for all people.

This election season, Ted Cruz is facing a new challenge in the form of Beto O’Rourke, a Democrat with more funding than any other from his party in Texas history. The race for Texas senator is a tight one, and many people believe that Cruz is the better candidate. I am not saying that I personally would vote for him—I most likely would not. However, some of his policies may appeal to the far-right voter.

Cruz has strong policies on tax reform, including slashing the income tax and the Internal Revenue Service and replacing it with Fair Tax. This new tax plan, which would end the capital gains tax, social security tax, estate tax, inheritance tax and others, seems like a good idea. However,

By Luke McCabe there would be a 23 percent sales tax to make up for the difference that such other taxes would create. This tax reform would benefit the economy as a whole since more money would go back to the working class, decreasing government spending on the IRS. This increase in working class revenue and decrease in taxes would lead to a higher gross domestic product, therefore increasing cash flow.

Some of his social stances appeal greatly to the traditional right-wing Republican.

Cruz is opposed to abortion and has claimed that he wishes to prosecute organizations that carry out these procedures, including Planned Parenthood and others.

Like many other red voters and some moderate voters, Cruz believes that the liberal government is "coming for our guns," and he opposed most of the gun control regulations proposed by the Obama administration. He has stated multiple times that the Second Amendment serves not only as a protector of hunting rights, but serves as the final checks and balance system against possible government tyranny. However, Cruz realizes that guns need to be kept out of the wrong hands, and he has proposed the Grassley-Cruz bill, which would give $50 million to the creation of a special force that prosecutes those selling and buying guns illegally. Also, this bill would grant $45 million to increase gun prosecution in the most affected cities of gun violence.

Obviously, like most Republicans, Cruz also opposes big government and wants to eliminate many trade regulations, the Departments of Commerce and Energy and supports small businesses in order to create a central and "greater" economy.

Overall, Cruz’s policies fall in the extremely Republican category of the political spectrum, and this may appeal to many Texan voters, considering Texas has been a major red state for approximately two decades.

Although this election may not seem like a big deal by not being the presidential one, I encourage every person of age to go out and vote.

Americans need to grow up, stop insulting President Trump The press, the Democrats, the leftists and the cat ladies have, at this point, been #resisting Donald Trump for quite some time now with nasty replies to his Tweets, mass demonstrations and malicious falsehoods shoddily

By John Calvert passed off as “news.”

At first, it was, for me at least, entertaining and enjoyable to be able to derive a sort of cathartic smugness from these people’s profound distress at the results of the election.

Yet, much like a favorite movie that becomes dull after many subsequent viewings, their hostility toward the President grew tiring.

Absurd statements once met with a laugh are now met with a jaded sigh. Perhaps it is the result of overexposure, or maybe a

realization that their vitriol—their fervent hatred—for everything involving Trump and his supporters is an expression of actual indignation and not a sort of “Million Man” Andy Kaufman skit.

Perusing social media uncovers an innumerable amount of threats against Trump’s life, and calls for his impeachment and frothing insults aimed at those who voted him in. I am sure you all remember the CBS executive who said that the victims of the Vegas shooting didn’t deserve sympathy because “country music fans often are Republican gun toters,” or the photo in which Kathy Griffin held up a bloody facsimile of Donald Trump’s head.

How many times have you read an article on CNN or the Washington Post or some other “neutral” news organization with a headline claiming that the President committed some grievous sin, yet, three paragraphs in, admit that their only source

for such a claim was anonymous (meaning nonexistent) and offer a quote that outright invalidates the story.

These people, through their actions, show that they care more about spiting Trump and Republicans than the lives of their fellow citizens and the well-being of their country.

Those who have spent the last year complaining about and disparaging everyone even somewhat favorable of the president are people whose identity rests on this petty “resistance.” They are children–malicious idiots with the emotional maturity of a fiveyear-old.

Political disagreements and debate are the lifeblood of American democracy, but the toxic, downright dangerous form it has taken is killing it. With the rift between Republicans and Democrats as wide as it is, the media-sponsored degradation of all red politicians and voters is abhorrent, and the legions of people who participate in such

activities are worthy of both scorn and shame.

Nobody should wish death on those they oppose politically, and nobody should desire the impeachment or killing of their country’s leader.

For those who hate Trump and for those who disagree with him on policy and find his general mannerisms to be distasteful, please learn to act as loyal opposition. Don’t disregard the suffering of your countrymen because they disagree with you politically and don’t try to topple the American government because the president wants to enforce immigration laws.

Instead, engage in a polite debate with them and if you feel that your ideas are correct or that your favored ideology works best, try to convince us of such via rational conversation—not by telling us that we are wicked, uneducated, oppressive monsters.

Because if you don’t, the future of the United States will be a dark one, indeed.

OPINIONS

15 • Eagle Edition • May 21, 2018

Moments with Young Republicans seek reform

I

used to spend my weekends watching Harry Potter and playing Wii and my idea of fun was walking around the mall with my friends.

There were never any parties or hanging out with boys. I wore knee-length khaki shorts and Tyler’s t-shirts, had braces, didn’t own makeup and was still not allowed to watch PG-13 movies.

But this was normal—I was only in middle school at the time.

When I compare the middle schoolers my friends and I were to the middle schoolers I see now, it’s shocking to see how much has changed. Scrolling through Instagram, it’s astounding to see middle schoolers posting pictures looking like 20-year-olds, wearing full faces of makeup. Social media has changed the way younger people see themselves, pressuring them into looking and acting much older.

Social media praises and obsesses over celebrities who seem to keep getting younger and younger. Jacob Sartorius, a 15-year-old singer, and Millie Bobby Brown, a 14-yearold Emmy award-winning actress, are known as a “power couple,” and what’s worse is they were a few years younger when they started becoming famous. Brown has 16.4 million followers on Instagram and posts pictures that portray her as an adult. She and Sartorius claim they are in love, but how can you be in love with someone when you were in elementary school just a few years before?

A few days ago, my middle school sister sent me an Instagram video of a nine-year-old girl known as Lil Tay throwing $100 bills in the air, screaming curse words and wearing designer clothes. She is verified, which means that Instagram confirmed her account as a public figure. As if middle school isn’t early enough, now social media is encouraging children to act twice their age before the age of 10.

Instagram is one of the most powerful platforms that negatively affects the mental health of young people, having been proven to cause feelings of inadequacy to those struggling with body image and self-esteem.

Social media in general has been linked to decreased social skills and higher levels of anxiety, loneliness, envy, depression and narcissism. Thankfully, it didn’t have a large presence when I was younger, but it certainly does now.

Having Instagram as a senior is stressful enough, because your social media identity is surprisingly important, especially if you want to participate in Greek life in college.

Nothing you post on social media ever goes away because of screenshots and your online footprint. Getting blacklisted from sororities is a real thing, and social media plays a role in that, but most with social media don’t understand that yet.

It’s been said before but I’ll say it again: We need to learn to better communicate in person rather than online. Sometimes it feels like people forget how to talk in real life, and for the youngest members of our community, this fact is detrimental to a healthy childhood and a healthy development.

–Margaret Smith

I

am a supporter of the Republican party.

But with the social and cultural norms of the twenty-first century rapidly changing, I believe that the party needs to adapt in their social ideals, while keeping their fiscal and economic views the same. If the party begins to move in a different direction with some of their social views while reinforcing their economic stances, more young people will rally with the party.

Entire citizen demographics struggle to relate to the Republican party because of seemingly strict views surrounding subjects such as abortion, gay rights, immigration and government-religion affiliation.

Some of these out-dated stances on hot-button issues like abortion and gay rights seem idiotic to me, given that Republicans believe in small government, yet put laws in place that dictate whether or

not a woman should be able to control her own body and whether two gay people should be able to have the same benefits as any other couple. This directly contradicts their belief in limited government control.

It seems that the more Republicans and Democrats argue about social ideals, the more defensive each party’s members become and the more invested their followers get in their party’s ideals. If the two parties were to take a step back and look at the nation’s problems without deeply-rooted biases, then we could find solutions more effectively.

The idea of a privatized economy and lower taxes is what is appealing to me because a privatized industry provides more jobs, a thriving economy, smoother management and smaller government.

When laid out and reinforced, these ideas would be appealing to the

graphic by Anastasia Sotiropoulos

HIT OR MISS

working class of America. These economic changes would directly benefit everyday citizens, but many have trouble understanding and acknowledging them when there are other strict, political norms in place, losing potential voters for the party every year.

If Republicans and Democrats can agree on social issues and move past futile arguments, they could focus on issues that would benefit both parties’ constituents.

Countries like Russia are exploiting our weaknesses by playing on our disagreements. Recently, Russian trolls have been plaguing social media platforms with radical views on social issues. These posts disrupt the internet and only polarize our population more, distracting from solutions that we should be working together on.

Other nations are noticing how divided our country is right now and are choosing to play us, which is dangerous to citizens and democracy.

However, social media can be a stimulus for political change in the future. As children grow up, they are now exposed to a wide variety of views, thanks to the internet—not just those of their parents—allowing kids the opportunity to form their own opinions, different from those of their household environment.

This could eventually lead to the merging of America’s youth’s, and over time, bridge the gap that is polarizing our country.

Although it would be an enormous struggle to revert such deeply embedded opinions and ideas, this is how I see the Republican party surviving and thriving in the future. I am not suggesting that they change all of their ideals overnight, but there needs to be a gradual change of some of these limiting policies.

–Gardiner Vose

Staffers take on school issues, local events that were either successful or need improvement

Dog days of summer Seniors brought dogs to school, gifting the campus with cute, furry friends. A few got a free bath, thanks to the rain.

Survival of the fittest This year’s Student Council election had several endless run-offs. These types of campaigns are always very competitive, considering some of the same candidates re-run every year.

The year in review The yearbook featured beautiful designs and students received it sooner than usual, giving them the chance to sign.

Slippery slope The school should find a solution for having Chapel on days when it’s pouring rain. Many of us got drenched and dirtied the pews.

Espresso yourself Itinerary’s staff unveiled their literary magazine, making for a night of singing and readings. Hosted by an emcee, the Coffee House event filled the Bray.

MISS

Social media is corrupting young children, access should be limited

Conservative priorities need to change to appeal to younger voters through policy shifts on social issues

HIT

Margaret

Loud house Several AP tests were held in areas of senior hall.

Some seniors were a little too excited about the end of the year, their loud chatter interrupting testers.

May 21, 2018 • Eagle Edition • 16

SPORTS

DEFENDING THE LEAD: In an April 3 game against Flower Mound High School, junior Annie Sawers plays defense. The Eagles beat Flower Mound, 12-9. “Next year, we’re going to work more on tightening up our offensive and defensive plays, as well as executing in these pressured situations,” Sawers said.

Photo by Anastasia Sotiropoulos

Womens lacrosse season ends at state After loss to Hockaday in the semifinals, team finishes, 15-6

By Lauren Weber

“

We knew we needed to start the game strong to prevent Hockaday from getting a lead on us. If there would have been more time left, we might have been able to tie it.

”

DOUBLE TROUBLE

– Junior Annie Sawers

D

espite being plagued by injuries throughout the season, the womens varsity lacrosse team ended the season with a 15-6 record after making it to the State semifinals.

Since the beginning of the season, many of the team’s most influential players on both offense and defense have suffered injuries. These continuous setbacks contributed to the team’s loss to Hockaday in both the Southwest Preparatory Conference game and in the semifinals of the State tournament.

Although they trailed by four goals with only 30 seconds left in the semi-finals, the Eagles fought back and managed to score three goals in the closing seconds, losing the game, 12-11.

“We knew we needed to start the game strong to prevent Hockaday from getting a lead on us,” junior Annie Sawers said. “We had some turnovers and lost possession, which allowed them to score a lot in the second half, but we were able to close the gap at the end. If there would have been more time left, we might have been able to tie it.”

During both tournaments, the team was forced to adjust because many players had just recovered from injuries.

“The SPC and State tournaments were some of the first times that the whole team was together after

everyone recovered from their injuries,” junior Anna Winkeler said. “So we were all still figuring out how to play together. During the semifinal game, our energy was great and we were doing a lot of the small things right. What got us was getting down by five at the beginning of the second half, and then after that, there were some calls that broke our momentum a bit.”

Junior captain Jay Browne sprained her ankle in the second game of the season against Greenhill.

Browne continued to play but couldn’t play midfield, her preferred position. The team struggled to play without Browne, who is a key player.

Senior Lily Charnes, juniors Caroline Cheetham, Story Langston, Gianna Pope, sophomore Tori Greenberg and freshman Emma Jerrier were also injured over the course of the season.

Even with several starting players on the sidelines, the team still persevered and won district in April, defeating Highland Park, 12-8, in the championship game.

“We’ve had so many players out throughout the season,” coach Maggie Koch said. “But the healthy players have come out and played to the best of their abilities, and when the injured players were able to come back, they did, too, and people have just gradually gotten healthier.”

Additionally, with upperclassmen

and key players out, underclassmen and several other non-starters stepped up to fill their roles.

“When Jay [Browne], Tori [Greenberg] and Lily [Charnes] were all out, it was kind of scary because Jay is kind of like the glue of our team,” Langston said. “But once we realized we would have to deal without her being in and without Caroline [Cheetham] being in, it made other middies step up. It let a lot of people have independent glory rather than depending on the four [college] commits: Caroline, Jay, Anna and Lily.”

The team’s ability to adjust and perform in the midst of these setbacks led them to several victories over highly ranked opponents, including Highland Park, Kinkaid and Hockaday. Their win at district secured their rank going into State, second only to Kinkaid, although they defeated them during SPC, 14-7.

In the SPC championship game, the team lost to Hockaday, 16-8, which did not affect their rank going into State.

“[During SPC], Hockaday played very well, like almost nothing went wrong for them, and they won almost every single draw, so we barely had the ball on our offensive end,” Browne said. “We also had to play Kinkaid the day before, and they are a very aggressive team, so we were pretty beat up on top of all of our returning injuries.”

Looking forward to next season, the team will be losing only two starters, seniors Charnes and Amelia Danklef.

“My primary goal for next season is the same as every season: to run a program the players enjoy dedicating their spring to and are proud to be a part of,” Koch said. “[Coach] Ali and I will need to take some time to evaluate what we did well this season and designate the main areas where we see the need for improvement.

Every year is different, but the one constant is the need to build chemistry. We will have a very large senior class next spring who have played through the highs and lows.”

“My primary goal for next season is the same as every season: to run a program the players enjoy dedicating their spring to and are proud to be a part of.”

— Coach Maggie Koch

Last updated on 05/15/18

Second doubles player Neely Krispin

Varsity lacrosse player Drew Wasserman

contributed to the team’s win against

has accumulated 43 goals and 11 assists

Greenhill with a tie breaker of 12-10.

this season.

Krispin has moved from playing first doubles to third singles.

“Neely is one of the strongest players

“Drew is a great lacrosse player and teammate,” freshman midfielder Jake Griffin said. “He is someone who

on the team,” sophomore doubles player

understands the offense well enough that

Allie Warnecke said. “Even though she is a

when I have a question, I can ask him.”

freshman, she isn’t afraid to speak up and play her hardest on the court.”

Neely Krispin, freshman

Drew Wasserman, sophomore

SPORTS

17 • Eagle Edition • May 21, 2018

EAGLE EYE

LACROSSE

NOTEABLE: Mens lacrosse loss in the semi-finals to long-standing rival St. Marks, 11-7. The Eagles were down by one at the beginning of the fourth quarter, but the Lions eventually pulled a four-point lead and won.

"The loss has been difficult to handle," sophomore attack Drew Wasserman said.

"But for the players returning next year, this loss will be used as motivation for us to play our best game, every game."

CREW NOTEABLE: Two ESD rowers earned spots at the Youth National Championship held in California in June. Juniors Will Beck and Mason Gosslee will compete against other rowers from across the country.

"We’re competing in the varsity double, so it’s in one of the smaller boats,” Gosslee said. “We joke around a lot but really come together and get things done the second we have work to do.”

GOLF

NOTEABLE: On April 30, the varsity mens golf team competed in SPC, taking second place with senior Jack Beck chipping in a birdie at the 18 to complete the season.

“The guys were pumped about placing second,” freshman John Vassallo said. "Now it's time to get back to work for next season."

TENNIS

NOTEABLE: Seniors Matt Jones and John Hamlin each won matches in their final SPC tournament after playing for ESD mens tennis for six years. Jones is committed to play at Villanova beginning this fall and played first singles.

Hamlin played first doubles.

“SPC was a great experience to get better by playing against competitive opponents and learning how to tackle adversity,” player Brooks Butler said.

TRACK

NOTEABLE: Winning third place for All North Zone, freshman Denae Williams discovered a love for the high jump on the track team this year.

“Throughout the season, I have really improved my form, which has helped in my recent success,” Williams said. “I am excited to keep running over the summer in preparation for next year.”

BASEBALL

NOTEABLE: On May 12, ESD baseball alumni came back to their old field for a game against the current varsity team. The final score was 8-7, alumni.

“I liked seeing and getting to know graduated players that played on the same field at one point in their lives and have been in the same situation as us,” sophomore center fielder Ty Johnson said.

By Lauren Egger

Last updated on 05/15 /18

Photo illustration by Sydney Rezaie

Demystifying college recruitment Athletes sign to play, lengthy process involves time and initiative

By Sydney Rezaie

J

unior soccer player Lauren Marks committed to Yale in the February of her sophomore year.

Because of a commitment from Hockaday womens soccer team to Harvard, varsity women’s head coach Mike Renshaw emailed the Yale traveling coach, Todd Plourde, to come visit ESD. After a day of touring the campus, Plourde attended the Eagles’ game against Hockaday to watch.

“After the game ended, the traveling coach approached me and told me that he was impressed with my skills,” Marks said. “He told me that he would be in contact with me and emailed Mike shortly after.”

However, because of the National Collegiate Athletic Association, N.C.A.A, restrictions, Yale’s coach could not directly contact Marks before the fall of her junior year. Marks had to call the coach repeatedly until he responded.

“It was frustrating during some parts of the commitment process because I couldn’t really tell if the schools were interested,” Marks said.

“I had to call and email them repeatedly until they responded, since I had to be the first one to contact them.”

After an exchange of emails with the Yale coaches, Marks flew to the university on an unofficial visit, meeting with the team, the head coach and taking a guided tour through the campus.

“When I visited Yale, I immediately knew it

was the school for me,” Marks said. “All of the players were so welcoming, and I felt a part of the team right away.”

Before junior lacrosse player Scott Bower started high school, he had already been in contact with colleges in the recruitment process. Bower was already deciding between Syracuse, the University of North Carolina and the University of Virginia.

On Sept. 5, during the first month of his freshman year, Bower verbally committed to the University of Virginia.

“It definitely felt stressful because I didn’t know if I was going to like a college three years later, so I had to really make sure it was the right choice,” Bower said. “But at the same time, it felt weird because none of the seniors even knew where they were going and I already chose a few weeks into freshman year.”

Unlike Bower, senior rower Izzy Harrington started the recruiting process very late because she was not nearly as fast as she need to be to get recruited at a Division I school. She practiced for four hours a day during the summer with a club team.

“I transferred over to a club team, Dallas United Crew, this past summer and I got a lot faster over the course of a few months,” Harrington said. “I was able to pull it all together

"It was frustrating during some parts of the commitment process because I couldn’t really tell if the schools were interested."

— Junior Lauren Marks

in time and gain interest from schools.”

Harrington contacted the majority of her prospective schools through email and questionnaires on the team’s websites. After that, she had phone calls with coaches and then in-person interviews. She sat in on classes and ultimately decided to go to the University of Pennsylvania at the end of October during the fall of her senior year.

“The best part about the process was going on the official visits to the different schools,” Harrington said. “The worst part about the process was the uncertainty of it all. At the beginning of senior year, it was very nerve-wracking when coaches wouldn’t respond when I first reached out to them, since I was coming into the process so late.

But at the end of the day, I get to spend the next four years at an amazing school with great opportunities.”

Head Athletic Director Dan Gill recognizes the accomplishments of the student-athletes in the ESD community.

“Being a collegiate student-athlete is one of the best things a young person can accomplish,” Gill said.

“All of the student-athletes that have the opportunity to participate at the collegiate level are less than one percent. Whether you’re a scholarship, Division III or junior college athlete, it is huge accomplishment to be recognized by a college at any level. We are really proud of the students who continue our athletic excellence at ESD.”

"Whether you’re a scholarship, Division III or junior college athlete, it is huge accomplishment to be recognized by a college at any level."

— Head Athletic Director Dan Gill

SPORTS

18 • Eagle Edition • May 21, 2018

Baseball, softball finish season, fall short of SPC Programs prepare for expansion in upcoming years, encourage more players to join

By Alan Benítez

T

he varsity womens softball and varsity mens brought something new to the team.” baseball teams did not qualify for this year’s Varsity mens baseball lost their last game of annual Southwest Preparatory Conference the season, 2-0, on April 27 to Cistercian, failtournament but are continuing to focus on ex- ing to qualify for SPC. panding their programs.

“It was bad overall,” sophomore right fieldAs head coach of the varsity softball team er Jesús De Santiago said. “If we had subs, we for the past four years, Mindi Sacco has imple- could have moved more players around. Our mented daily routines conlast game was almost a guaranteed sisting of defense practice win, then we just lost.” to ensure the girls can catch “Our ultimate goal The team had beat Cistercian in and throw the ball correctly. is to have fun while a previous game and was anticipatThe team also practices stealing another victory. In their earlier seeing progress and game against the Hawks, the Eaing bases.

“Some things we can im- success, so we have gles were losing by seven, but De prove next season to have a Santiago walked to first base, stole shot at SPC are support and to stay positive.” second, ran home and scored. He accountability,” Sacco said. — Softball coach secured a win for the team with a “The girls need to keep each final score of 12-1, their highest other accountable [for] prac- Mindi score of the season. tices, lifts and games. They “I have learned from my coaches do a fantastic job of encourthat you can always get better, and aging and motivating each other during games there is always room for improvement,” De and practices. Our ultimate goal is to have fun Santiago said. while seeing progress and success, so we have Normally, the day before games, the team to stay positive and never give up, even if we hits baseballs to practice batting. Sometimes, are down several runs in a game.” practices can run for three hours, which means Junior center outfielder Brenda Baez started that the boys have to stay longer than usual. noticing the team’s improvement after practic- Now that the season is over, they know what ing constantly. In the last half of the season, to focus on for next year. they began hitting the ball more.

“We played well with what we had,” first “The new training routine was the best de- baseman sophomore Brodie Burke said. “We cision [Sacco] made,” Baez said. “Everyone on made progress, but not as much as we thought the team began hitting the ball and making we would. As a team, we are progressing and runs. We have definitely improved because working hard as a unit and holding everyone there were newcomers this year, and they each accountable.”

PITCH PERFECT: Sophomore Jesús De Santiago steps up to bat during a game against St. Marks. The Eagles lost to the Lions, 8-5, on April 5. “I learned from my teammates and coaches that the game would help me improve, and that every game, I had to play the best I could,“ De Santiago said. Photo by Anastasia Sotiropoulos

Sacco

EYE ON THE BALL: Freshman Alison Stutzman prepares to catch the ball from an Oakridge player. The Eagles lost to Oakridge, 26-3, on April 24. “This season may not have gone as planned with the scores,” Stutzman said. “But we had a lot of determination to win our last game against Oakridge. The catch I made in the last game showed this determination we had to try and make it to SPC.” Photo by Katelin Gildersleeve

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SPORTS

May 21, 2018 • Eagle Edition • 19

Q&A:

Triple threat

BECK AND CALL: Freshmen Eleanor Beck, Jack Beck and junior Will Beck assemble their boat at the Central Youth Championship regatta in Oklahoma City on May 6. They enjoy traveling together and often compete alongside each other. “It went very well,” Will Beck said. “Almost every boat that got into the finals medaled, and my boat qualified for the Youth Nationals in California in June.”

Photo by Evelyn Zhao

Beck siblings strengthen relationship through crew practices, regattas

By Melissa Rivera

How did you start getting into crew?

Freshman Eleanor Beck: I started to get interested in crew when my brother Will started. I saw how much he enjoyed the sport, so I decided to try it for myself.

Freshman Jack Beck: I was introduced to crew when my brother started crew in the spring of his freshman year, but I didn’t really start thinking about joining crew until before my freshman year, when I learned to row over the summer.

Junior Will Beck: I first learned about the crew team in eighth grade and looked forward to trying it out all year, but I got injured the summer before, so I wasn’t able to officially start until the spring of my freshman year.

What is it like being on the team with your siblings?

Eleanor: Being together on the same team has been really fun so far. We were close before crew started, but being on the same crew team, we have been able to become closer and have something in common. We had things to share before, but we now have a common interest that we can all talk about. Being together is also very interesting because it is the first thing that we all do together.

Jack: Being in the same sport as my brother and sister has been a fun experience. We always ride together to and from practice,

and I am sometimes called “little Beck” as it is confusing to have three Becks on the same team when calling names. Many people on our team thought I was the youngest.

Will: It has definitely been an experience.

This has been the first time we have actually done something that spends so much time together, but it has been going pretty well so far. Rowing has bonded us together a little bit more because it gives us one more thing that we are all involved in to talk about.

What’s your favorite thing about crew?

Eleanor: My favorite part of crew is being able to be out on the water rowing. On certain days, when the water is nice, it can be very calm and relaxing. It is also fun to work out with your friends and bond with your team through the many practices and regattas.

Jack: Crew for me has its good and bad days— more good than bad. The reason I like crew is because not many people do it. Our team isn’t very big, and it is getting to learn from the more experienced teammates and learn together with your fellow novi as you form a bond with your boatmates that makes crew fun.

Will: I have always said that rowing is not only an insanely active sport but also a mental one, and that is one of the reasons why I enjoy it so much. When I am halfway into a

long erg work out, I get to give my mind a break and just let it flow between the music and my thoughts. Another reason I enjoy rowing is because you can row in some really amazing places, such as lakes in Colorado with mountains surrounding you.

What are your favorite races?

Eleanor: My favorite races are when we do fast sprints, like a 1k or 2k. Before you race, you feel the rush of adrenalin e that gets you energized to go all out. I also love these races because the whole team will come next to the water and cheer you on when you race next to them, pushing us to give it all we have at the end of the race.

Jack: My favorite race would be the 1000m. I have only ever rowed in the 1k and 2k races as

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a novice, but the 1k is quick, and you have to give your all in a short amount of time. It can be very stressful, but it feels more like a race because you are right next the boats that you are competing against, which gives you that extra motivation to push a little harder.

Will: My favorite race was at the Texas State Regatta, where Mason and I placed second.

Do you plan on rowing throughout high school?

Jack: Crew can definitely be time consuming as the amount of practices increase in the spring and when you reach varsity, but I am planning on doing crew throughout high school.

Will: I plan on rowing through the rest of high school and am going to try to row in college.

20 • Eagle Edition • May 21, 2018

INDIVIS18LE

Around Campus

Ali Adatia | Texas A&M University Braden Allen | Texas Tech University Lauren Aronowitz | University of Texas Brody Baird | University of Denver Wesley Banks | Occidental College Sam Bass | Wake Forest University Shae Bass | Texas Christian University Jack Beck | Texas Tech University Julia Beckel | Rhodes College Samantha Brosler | University of Pennsylvania Rowen Brown | Texas A&M University Emma Cabrales | Southern Methodist University Gillian Campbell | The University of the South Jake Charnes | Southern Methodist University Lily Charnes | University of Oregon Caitlin Cho | University of Texas Grant Connelly | Texas Christian University William Cooper | University of Denver Elizabeth Grace Crenshaw | University of Texas Luke Crowe | University of Texas Amelia Danklef | University of Georgia Brenda Diaz | Rice University Patrick Duffner | Chapman University Maddie Esping | Tulane University Sarah Kate Farmer | Auburn University Barron Fletcher | University of Texas Leta Flores | University of Arkansas Ryan Franks | Texas Christian University Harrison Frazar | Auburn University Cierra Gordon | Texas Christian University Nick Greenberg | Washington and Lee University John Hamlin | University of Virginia Jack Hardage | Washington and Lee University Izzy Harrington | University of Pennsylvania Caleb Harris | University of Miami Hector Hernandez | Texas A&M University Jackson Hobbs | Southern Methodist University Trevor Hobbs | Vanderbilt University Kathleen Hobson | Duke University Sophie Holland | University of Southern California Peyton Jeter | Washington and Lee University Harrison Jin | University of Texas Cameron Johnson | Jackson State University Matthew Jones | Villanova University Gracie Kaiser | University of Oklahoma Izzy Keene | University of Alabama Ella Kelly | University of Texas Prescott King | Southern Methodist University John Kuehne | Texas Tech University Lauchlin Langston | Washington and Lee University Antonio Lapeyrolerie | Clark University Kristen Leland | University of Virginia Lauren Levy | Tulane University Alexa Lutz | Loyola Marymount University Quincy Lynch | University of Colorado Boulder Michael Mahoney | Texas Tech University Ellery Marshall | University of Southern California Sarah Kate Massey | Wake Forest University Thomas May | University of Texas Cameron McGee | University of Texas Brianna McLarty | New York University Brandon Meaux | Georgetown University Stefanie Melgar | Texas Tech University Alec Miledi | Syracuse University Mary Crow Miller | University of Mississippi Mark Minissale | Southern Methodist University Tarushi Mittal | Rice University Aly Molubhoy | University of Texas Meredith Moran | University of Richmond Autumn Neurohr | University of Denver Sabrina Nuth | Baylor University Blair Oden | University of Texas Emilie Owens | University of Texas Murphy Pressley | St. John’s University Braden Rhone | Washington and Lee University Pearson Riley | Baylor University Taylor Robertson | Hampton University Sophie Saland | Johns Hopkins University Michelle Shen | Wellesley College Landry Shive | Texas A&M University Isabella Siragusa | George Washington University Patrick Skalniak | United States Naval Academy Campbell Smith | University of South Carolina Kathryn Smith | Loyola Marymount University Margaret Smith | Elon University Katie Smythe | Stanford University Ellery Spencer | University of Oklahoma Shelby Stansbury | University of North Carolina Sophia Stener | Columbia University Benjamin Taber | Colorado State University Sara Madeline TaCito | University of Mississippi David Talbot | University of Texas Saxon Thompson | Wilbraham Monson Academy Robert Tolbert | Indiana University Tyla Tolbert | Arizona State University Chase Toledo | University of Utah Caitlyn Tong | Reed College Savannah Troutt | University of Texas Amanda Warren | Auburn University Jack Webb | University of Texas Carly Weisberg | Indiana University James West | University of Texas Emma Grace White | University of Texas Hudson Woods | Wake Forest University Ken Zhang | University of Texas Gwyneth Zogg | University of Texas