Voyager-online.org
Volume LII
Senior Edition 2019
Eastern Regional High School
1401 Laurel Oak Road
Seventh Edition
Voorhees, NJ 08043
Photo by Maanasi Natarajan ‘19 Edited by Laura Frantz ‘20
2 The Voyager
Senior Edition
June 2019
Let’s meet the valedictorian and salutatorian Geoffrey Brandt ‘19 University of Pennsylvania
Alexa Grabelle ‘19 University of Pennsylvania
By ANTHONY CUTRERA ‘19 Sports Editor
By MAANASI NATARAJAN ‘19 Editor-in-Chief
Have you always been at the top of your class? Yeah I guess so. I was always in the enrichment program amd stuff in elementary school and middle school so I would say so.
How does it feel to be awarded valedictorian? I am truly honored to be awarded valedictorian. It is incredibly rewarding to see my hard work pay off in this way. Do you have an idea of what your graduation speech will be about? I have some ideas. I am still in the early brainstorming stage. I am trying to put all my ideas together to say something impactful and hopefully entertaining too! How have you been preparing to give your speech? I listened to the speeches of the last three Eastern valedictorians, as well as some others I found on YouTube. I’m trying to listen to at least one a day hoping they will spark some ideas. Who has been the most influential person from your time at Eastern? Mrs. Palmer -- I have had her Gifted and Talented class for four years in a row, and she is my Model United Nations coach. Through GT, I have developed writing, speaking, and presentation skills which I can apply to every other class. Most importantly, Mrs. Palmer has encouraged me to develop and follow my academic passions, and many GT projects have led me to focus in on my future pursuits. What are your plans for after graduation (college/career-wise)? I will be studying Behavioral Economics at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. I hope to obtain a wellrounded business education so I am prepared for a wide-range of careers. As of now, I hope to hone in on behavioral economics through utilizing business insights alongside behavioral science in order to create policies and programs through collaboration with nonprofits and governments. Where do you want to see yourself in 10 years? I’d like to see myself abroad somewhere working on a behavioral economics impact project, directly improving
At what point did you realize that you had a shot at being salutatorian? Beginning of senior year, I found out I was in the running.
Photo by Maanasi Natarajan ‘19
education in a third-world country. What was your favorite part about Eastern? My favorite part about Eastern was the extracurriculars in which I involved myself, including Key Club, Academic Challenge, Rho Kappa History Honor Society, and Model United Nations. Through each activity, I made incredible friends, developed leadership skills, and encountered challenges. The memories I have made over the years through my involvement in Eastern’s clubs are certainly ones that will last forever. What is one piece of advice you would give to underclassmen? Don’t get upset over the little things in school and in life. For example, there were so many individual bad quiz and assignment grades over the years. There were positions I sought and didn’t obtain. They don’t matter in the end. Always keep the big picture in mind, and stay focused on your long-term goals. What is one thing you would like to change about the world? I believe that all children should have access to a personal library of books to read at home. I am working to help reach this goal through my literacy service organization, Bags of Books. I hope to get involved with social entrepreneurship organizations in college to further my community service impact in the realm of global education.
Farewell from Dr. Tull The Principal encourages The Class of 2019 to persevere through obstacles and make positive changes to society It is hard to believe that your academic and social experience at Eastern Regional High School now gives way to higher educational pursuits. Soon, most of you will enter a college, a university, a trade school, the military, or the work force. Whichever is your chosen endeavor, there is no doubt that your impact on society has the potential to bepositive and purposeful. You have persevered through changes and developed the character and attitude that will enable you to become successful. Keep in mind that there will be a multitude of challenges that you will face, just understand that every action you undertake impacts others and that enthusiasm can be a contagious and powerful catalyst to all who surround you. Robert M. Tull, Jr., Ed.D. Principal
Was becoming the salutatorian (or valedictorian) a goal of yours? Not at first, but when I realized it was achievable, I got excited about the idea of being either valedictorian or salutatorian.
How often do you study? If I’m being honest, rarely.
To what or to whom do you credit your academic success? I grew up in an environment where my parents pushed academics. Also my dad is a huge history buff and loves visiting historical sites and bringing up history facts.
What are you most excited for at Penn? The student culture and everything that comes with being a Quaker. I’m really excited to watch basketball games at the Palestra.
How do you balance three sports and still maintain high grades? I used good time management and always stay in-tune during class. I never
What class at Eastern did you find most difficult? AP Physics C was a challenging class, especially the electromagnetism unit in the second half of the year.
A Class President’s Farewell Dear Friends,
In high school, we count down the days until it is over. And then, as we grow, we beg for another day back. It’s the best of times and the worst of times, cliche as that may sound. Yes, sometimes we don’t always enjoy our time here, but regardless, we have learnt so much. We have learnt the meaning of hard work, the meaning of trusting our peers, the meaning of passion and determination, and most importantly, how to find ourselves. Once we find confidence in knowing who we are, our value, and where we Photo by Lauren Casole ‘19 belong, we can find our place to contribute in our communities. Some may stay local, some may travel far, but nonetheless we are all on a mission to make a difference. As we grow and continue to mature, we will look fondly back on our high school memories, the moments in which we found ourselves. It is not up to me to tell you when those moments are. For me, it was being involved in the community through class office, and representing a greater whole through sports. In these moments, I discovered that in my life I would strive to continue to focus on being a part of a team that is tenacious in accomplishing good service for others. Everyone had that a-ha moment -- whatever they were doing, it just felt right. As we take these next steps in our lives, I would like for everyone to remember the moments they cherished most in their high school careers. Let that same passion fuel your journey throughout life. We are all very fortunate to have been exposed to the teachings of Eastern High School. Let us all remember our roots, remember our fortune, and forever and always remind others of theirs. We all made it through high school, so nothing’s impossible. Get out there and do what you were meant to do. Your President, Eric Greenwald
Photo by Maanasi Natarajan ‘19
Photo by Maanasi Natarajan ‘19
really nod off or play games when the teacher is teaching.
June 2019
Senior Edition
Activities after high school By LAUREN CASOLE ‘19 Editor-in-Chief
W
hen high school comes to an end, in many cases, so do the activities that students have participated in during their high school years. Some go on to pursue these activities in college such as sports, Model UN, and DECA. However, many say goodbye to these activities after graduation. In my case, I will say goodbye to dancing competitively after 8 years of dedication. For many of my friends, they will say goodbye to tennis, lacrosse, and soccer. However, I still want to dance in college, it will just be in a different way. It’s definitely going to be a big adjustment not having a structured activity after school and I am going to have to learn how to manage my time in different ways. “Club lacrosse in college will still have structure, but it will be weird not being with the same group of guys,” said Ethan Shacket. He will be attending the Ohio State University in the fall.
College offers many opportunities to still be involved with the sport or activity students have dedicated their high school years too, but it will be a completely new experience. “I want to try and play club soccer at Temple,” said Praneel Trivedy, “but I am not sure yet.” Trivedy has been playing soccer since he was four and he even played varsity at Eastern. Ali Karpousis, who will be doing gymnastics at the University of Pennsylvania said that even if she was not on Penn’s official gymnastics team she still would want to be involved with the sport somehow. “It’s hard to say goodbye to something after all of these years,” she said. When you get to college it’s really up to you if you wish to continue your extracurricular activities or leave them in high school. The biggest challenge for me is leaving my team behind. I know it’s going to be strange not dancing with my girls from Jazz Unlimited, but I am excited for a change. The best way to describe it is bittersweet.
What Are Seniors’ Favorite Childhood Memories? By JONATHAN COSTA ‘19 Staff Reporter
A
s we graduate high school, it’s fun to look back on our younger days because of all the memories we made along the way. As we get further and further removed from elementary school, more and more of those memories are forgotten. However, that makes the ones that you do remember that much more special as they were important enough to stick with you over all this time. For a lot of us, those elementary memories come from school activities. Elementary school featured a lot of perks that students remember fondly when reminiscing back on those playful days. Andrew Tang remembers a certain one fondly. “My favorite field trip was the Franklin Institute,” said Tang, “I enjoyed the tours and activities there.” When asked what made the Franklin Institute special, Andrew said, “As a kid I was very curious, so going to a place like the Franklin Institute was fascinating and awesome.” Andrew Pham also remembered an elementary school field trip, although it was a different one. “My favorite memory in elementary school was going to the zoo,” said Tang, “the dinosaur exhibit where you could sit inside the eggs was the best thing ever.” Elementary school memories were more than just field trips, though. Ayaz Mahmood remembers a certain academic game that made everyone involved very competitive. “I got second in the math 24 competition in 4th grade,” said Mahmood, “I’m still disappointed I couldn’t win but it was a
The Voyager 3
Teacher Farewells
Farewell to the Class of 2019. Your resilience and kindness to each other will not be forgotten! Special shout out to my AP Psych students from last year.
-Love, Ms. M. Walker.
Dear Class of 2019, Your broadmindedness and kindheartedness has affirmed my faith in the human spirit. Your brilliance and work ethic has assured me that there will be good people to take care of me when I’m old(er). You have been bright spots in my life and I will miss you dearly. Do good; be good. Do well; be well.
-Fondly, Mrs. Pomerantz
Dear Class of 2019, I would like to congratulate you on successfully graduating from EHS. The time has gone by so quickly and now you are about to venture out into a whole new world. I would like to leave you with a few little quotes to always remember, “You only get out of Life what you put into it,” “You can only control what you can control,” and last but not least, “DON’T TALK ABOUT IT, BE ABOUT IT!” Good luck and stay grounded. PEACE!!!
-WORTH
lot of fun.” Back in elementary school, each day your class would take a “special” class that was different from regular classroom learning. Ivan Nikolaev misses one of these specific classes. “In art class we would make these clay models,” said Nikolaev, “they were really cool and it was something different from what we normally would do every day.” Not everyone’s memory was school related. Jacob Vozzi’s memory was one a memory many wishful children could only dream of. “My favorite memory was getting my dog on Christmas Eve,” said Vozzi, “I wasn’t expecting a dog and was totally caught by surprise. I stayed up all night just getting to know and playing with Bobby. I was eight or nine and he was three months old. The whole family was thrilled.” Elementary school overall was much less stressful than what students go through. Many aspects of school back then made it so much easier to cope with. Although there are several different things you could pinpoint as to why elementary school made our early childhoods that much easier, Shivam Patel misses something most students can agree on. “I miss recess,” said Patel, “I miss the playground at Osage.”
To the class of 2019: As you move forward with your lives, I pause to reflect (in a statistical way) about getting to know you over the past couple of years. As a class, your standard deviation is extremely high (you are diverse) , your p-value is also very high (I fail to reject you), and your histogram would be bimodal (we’ve had our ups and downs). Overall, you have been a pleasure to teach and I wish each of you a happy, healthy, and productive life! You are all statistically significant to me :)
-Mrs. Vaccaro
My Honors English IV students this year were one for the books! They were fun, mature, and dedicated. Despite how abstract an assignment would be, they were willing to give it 100%. As a special shoutout - My Class 3 students were especially fun to teach, even though they loved to get me off track! And to Akhil Kundu, I will definitely miss teaching you even though you said some of the craziest things!
-Mrs. Mancinelli
I have just posted a new essay assignment on Google Classroom. Please write a personal narrative on “All of the Places You’ll Go.” It is worth 500 points primary points. Please record yourself and critique your speaking on the attached rubric and upload for YouTube. Seriously, though, it is due the night after Project Graduation. It’s been a blast and an honor. Loved your plays! Shout outs to so many, I don’t have room for all the names. Keep in touch. Come back and talk to my classes! Door to 605 is always open. I may never leave. My body may be taxidermied and encased in glass in the corner of the room with a button, that, when pressed, uses all my catchphrases, like “Cut the fat” and “I snort pure poetry.”
-Mr. Bowne
Photos by Nancy Bowne ‘19 and Maanasi Natarajan ‘19
Senior Edition
4 The Voyager The University of Alabama Jon Chiavacci-Kahn American University Gabriela Innamorato Maanasi Natarajan The University of Arizona Soominh Joo Kyleigh Masterson Arizona State University Rachael Strassler Baylor University Michael Carrington Binghamton University Sophia Sloves Bloomfield College Raelyn D’Onofrio Brandeis University Zachary Boroda Brigham Young University Kayle Grabenstein University of British Columbia Esther Oortgiesen Broward College Nicolas Rizzo University of California, Berkeley Dana Ramadan California State University Yotam Barkan Camden County College Christine Anasco Jessica Bonamassa Julia Bonamassa Maninder Biling Jake Bogardus Katelyn Bondi Thomas Booth Francesca Bowers Laura Breslin Alexander Brown Bryan Butler Teagan Charles Cailynne Cherill Jalen Corry Jose Defeo Stephanie Dicicco Daniya Dixon Christopher Esposito Deja Hicks Stephanie Hovell Nicole Lafalce Naquacia Larrea Joseph Leonard William Lewellen Makayla Ludwick Ryan Lynch Ayanna Marrero Victoria Marzullo Michael McGee Tressa Medina Donald Miller Christopher Millevoix Taylor Nocon I’tiana Norman Luis Ochoa Iglesias Anna Pietrzyk Elizabeth Pope James Tiedge Julie Wells Cecelia Wilkinson Nicolas Zugaib Catholic University Lindsay Kleeman Central Connecticut State Madison Cowdin University of Cincinnati Victoria Accardo Danielle Mlkvy
Clemson University Kelsey Piatkowski
Mikala Zuber
The College of New Jersey Nancy Bowne Denise Dacanay Joshua Goldstein Joanne Im Owen Soler Trinity Vargas
Jefferson University Harrison Chow Sophia Ferguson Zoe Goldberg Mckenna Henry Amish Malli Christina Pape Sonam Patel Tara Tobin
CO School of Mines Joshua Barbell
Kean University Jada Powell
CT School of Broadcasting Joseph Destefano Kevin Maldonado
La Salle University Emily Carey
University of Delaware Vanessa Bein Michael Belko Mehak Bhasin Madeline Gryskiewicz Isaiah Howton Aislinn McCourt Hailey Rosenblum Shaina Rosenblum Aidan Spence Drexel University Daniel Damiano Jaydeep Dave Nicholas Dill Bryan Eichen Jaisal Khatiwala Michael Ricca Katelyn Shinkle Catherine Stagliano Jacob Vozzi East Carolina University Karly Santora Eckerd College Casey Walenda Embry-Riddle Aeronautical Nikolaos Kontorousis
Lafayette College Dean Carnival Sydney Woolston Lehigh University Renali Patel LIM College Tamara Walters Long Island University Anthony Franden Loyola University Maryland Meredythe Bond Colin Seybold University of Mary Washington Gabriel Francesconi University of Maryland Michaela Elfant Emma Gubman Michael Padula Ronak Thakur University of Massachusetts Jacob Brocious Ashley Pietrafitta
June 2019 NJ Institute of Technology Marc Fayad Hayder Khan Dylan Lederman New York University Hannah Dasta Aayush Kaneria North Carolina Wesleyan Allison Wichrowski Northeastern University Kareem Abdelkader Sophia Hernandez Justin Kwon Julia Lenhart Norwich University Edward Capozzolo Nova Southeastern Janu Selvam The Ohio State University Ethan Shacket Pace University Mahsheed Askari Palm Beach Atlantic University Bryn Pagenkopf Palm Beach State College Kelley Foley University of Pennsylvania Alexander Andrews Geoffrey Brandt Sheil Desai Alexa Grabelle Alexandra Karpousis Pennsylvania State University Jacob Findley Tanner Koch Michelle Litvak Lindsay Schoeffler
Mass College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences Leah Zykh
University of Pittsburgh Gabriella Payne Sophia Sable Christopher Sullivan
University of Michigan Serena Patel
Princeton University Gabriela Bourla
Florida International Jimmy Benalcazar
Michigan State University Cloeda Lowell
Quinnipiac University Dariyah Corbett-Collier
Fordham University Isabella Staiger Reeya Vasisht
Millersville University Tyler Altringer
Ramapo College of New Jersey Kaira McNeil Carly Wolinsky
Fairleigh Dickinson Stephen Hanscom University of Florida Lauren Casole Samantha Sawka
GA Institute of Technology Petra Arinze Georgian Court University Kristaileen Quinones Gettysburg College John Fulleylove Hampton University Grace Council Howard University Krysten Henley Logan Ritter Indiana University Marissa Feltoon Isaac Fendrick Alec Funari Madison Guyer Alex Jacobs Noah Pearson James Madison University Hailey Miller Ta’mya Ross Peyton Somers
Monmouth University Dante Kiett Rachel Snyder Samuel Vaturi Montclair State University Linsey Champa Jordan Edmondson Akhil Kundu Dominick Parungao Dominic Stella Montgomery CCC Kaya McIver Moore College of ArtDesign Vasiliki Tsilikas Moravian College Adrian Condes Muhlenberg College Jenna Greenwald Neumann University Rebecca Spence University of New Haven Anya Dougherty
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Joyce Fang University of Rhode Island Molly Greenblatt Rider University Andrew Engel Nichole Hall David Holland Hilary Sponagle Jack Winsett University of Rochester Ryan Lombardi Dylan Stezzi Rochester Institute of Technology Jonathan Costa Robert Gagnon Rowan College at Burlington County Alyssa Capriotti Erika Davis Jamie Gontowski Shannon Lydic
Senior Edition
June 2019 Abigail Schwartz Samantha Tishgart Rowan College at Gloucester County Megan Borie Kaitlin Deterding Lauren Devlin Sirc Fernandez Devin Hunt Maria Sundstrom Alexis Swanholm Jordon Womack Christina Wynne Julia Ziegler Rowan University Ava Berenato Hiro Bernardo Anthony Bui Laquan Burroughs Bryanna Choi Olivia Covington Ryan Crossin Ariana David Antonio Dicolandrea Gianna Dina Michael Fehrenback Joseph Frasca Joseph Heckman Evan Holgado Clarke Horowitz Kealy Huder John Huynh Jenna Janco Isha Kalola Mikayla Kearse Jade Kenny Yazhini Kumaravadivelan Manoj Kuntamukkula Anthony Lafferty Jake LaRosa Dylan Lorrilliere Sajiv Maharaj Ayaz Mahmood Meghna Mathews Jacob Meeks Alyssa Middleton Sarah Morgan Deklin Parker Marissa Pavorsky Isabella Quimby Benjamin Sperling Alec Sutherland Andrew Tang Rutgers University - Camden Michaela Boyan Hailey Dadi Berra Demirkan Dev Depani Gabrielle Devakos Jesica Dhanoa Julia Dodd Valentina Fajardo Myles Johnson-Arline Joshua Katilus Niki Kokolis Sarah Lamon Alexondria McMillan Drew Naphys Lisa Traczyk Erdogan Yucel Rutgers University - New Brunswick Layla Ahmed Emmanuel Azuonwu Maggie Chen Anthony Cutrera Zachary Cyrelson Aakriti Das Rylee Evans Ron Fireman Brandon Goldstein Eric Horn Julia Kirk Ryne Kremer Abhijit Kulkarni Kiran Kumar Charine Leuterio Jeff Lin Pridhau Manohar Tristan Meier Sherveer Pannu
Jainit Patel Gabrielle Ross Caleb Schneider Jaspreet Singh Sharan Sivakumar Stephanie Smith Thomas Swider Kelvin Tai Meet Trivedi Bobby Weil Yewon Yang Saint Joseph’s University Julianna Colontonio Danielle Dwyer San Diego State University Gemma Spina The University of Scranton Ryan Ems Elizabeth Flewelling Seton Hall University Terrell Collins Gabrielle Kuper Shimoli Parikh Skidmore College Matthew Karpousis University of South Carolina Shane Bakley Jack Lee University of South Florida Amanda Jakuboski Southern New Hampshire University Dale Council St. Louis University Andrew Pham State University of New York Philip Varner Stockton University Samantha Adams Joseph Arlotta Rebecca Browne Isabelle Hillegass Danielle Hoppenfeld Nikki Le Ashley Mazzagatti Grace McGlinchey Amanda Missigman Nicholette Morris Alyssa Reavy Christopher Scott Ryann Werner Syracuse University Jenna Bresalier Adam Chazin Temple University Jermaine Donaldson McKenzie Gorham Shreya Gowda Aleeha Khan Emilie Lee Moaz Mumtaz Kena Patel Shivam Patel Srishti Ramesh Madeline Redfern Rashi Sanghavi Praneel Trivedy Towson University Ruthie Douglass Harry Jelesiewicz Jacqueline Kistler Jennifer Lanter Gabrielle Stuart Dara Zeitz Tulane University Max Abrams Emma Coyne Washington University in St. Louis
The Voyager 5
Angelina Le West Chester Univ. Jacob Goldsborough Lauren Joyce Olivia Kahn West Virginia University Andrew Cohen Connor Tracey Widener University Journei Hutchings Madison Murphy University of Wisconsin, Madison Jamie Schulman Worcester Polytechnic Institute Gabrielle Healey Ursinus College Jordan Casseus Matthew Chaves Eric Greenwald Andrew Heck Virginia Tech Anna Accardo Rizzieri Aveda School Sydney Cavarocchi Military Taivonn Battle Anna Friedman Giovanni Innaurato-Moss Colin Krause Noam Margalit Myles Slocum Colton Worrell Collin Yoder College Prep School Nicholas Ciampoli Kevin Lynch Employment/Other Plans Ashawn Brewer Jade Captan Addison Clark Amir Cleghorn Domenic Forte Ryan Goldstein Christopher Hernandez Max Kouznetsov Matthew McGuckin Hannah Newman Isabel Rinaldi Gerard Slack Daniel Teran
Viking Art Award Bobby Weil Nancy Bowne
Viking Scholar Athlete Award Geoffrey Brandt Angie Le
Viking Athlete Award TJ Franden Sydney Woolston
SENIOR
6 Senior Edition 2019 By SHREYA GOWDA ‘19 Managing Editor
By LAUREN CASOLE ‘19 Editor-in-Chief
Although the Greenwald twins s never got to switch places or play pranks on people around them, they got to experience all the other great things about being twins. They have twin telepathy, finishing each other’s sentences or singing the same song. People even thought they were dating freshman and sophomore year. They have similar personalities, both competitive and active. They have a large shared friend group. Twins run on their mom’s side, so it was a little more predictable. Although sometimes it hard to have their own identity, they enjoy that they always have someone going through the same thing. Although being a twin has its disadvantages, the Greenwalds love it because it keeps life interesting. They will be going to different colleges next year and will miss each other greatly, but are glad to be starting new lives.
In the words of Ali and Matt, they are “very different” in personality, but their love for sports and competitive nat identical. The twins are fraternal with Ali being 42 minutes both say twins run in the family. When asked about what some of the pros are about bei responded by saying, “It’s nice to save someone around,” a mented after saying, “It helps for homework.” Regardless, they will miss each other when they go their s in college next year. “We are studying very different thin and it’s going to be weird not having him around next year Hopefully, their connection will only grow stronger afte Matt said that they always get vibes from each other and so “twin telepathy” kicks in. “When I call her for dinner some singing the same song,” he said.
Jenna and Eric Greenwald By JULIA DODD ‘19 Online Editor-in-Chief Being a twin is already rare enough. Imagine being a twin who goes to a school of only 30 students per class. The Hovell twins—Julia and Stephanie—were born on February 16th, 2001 (also the birthday of the Accardo twins) with Stephanie born 6 minutes before Julia. They were adopted by Mrs. Hovell, their current mom who lives in Gibbsboro. They have an older brother, two older sisters, and two younger brothers all former or current Eastern students. They are fraternal twins with obvious physical differences, because Julia is much taller that Stephanie. They said that they do experience twin telepathy where they think the same thing and finish each other’s sentences. College will be the first time they are separated, because Stephanie is going to Camden County College; whereas, Julia is taking a year off.
Julia and Stephanie Hovell
Anna and Victoria Acc By NICHOLE HALL ‘19 Staff Reporter Seniors Jessica and Julia Bonamassa swear their minds are somehow on the same wavelength. “We are unconsciously on the same schedule.” Julia said. “One has a thought and the other expresses that thought.” Jessica said. Julia is the older of the identical twins by eight minutes. They look strikingly similar—the only physical differences they could think of were Julia’s rounder head and her fading beauty mark (she joked at the idea of tattooing it back). Though they may appear similar, their personalities define them from one another. “It only happened once or twice, but when I looked at her, I saw me.” Jessica said. Their mother, upon hearing she was pregnant with twins, cried her eyes out. She was frightened at the idea of twins, and no one in her family had ever had them before. The twins aren’t sure if their mother decided on names with matching first letters or if it was just an accident. In fourth grade, Julia and Jessica switched into each oth-
ers’ classrooms for a harmless prank on Jessica’s teacher. Since their days in elementary school though, no more switcharoos have taken place. Jessica claims they don’t have the creativity for any more elaborate ruses. The Bonamassas share everything. From clothes, mentality, friends, interests, and their car, the Bonamassas agree that there are pros and cons to being a twin. While mostly positive, they both agree on one thing in particular. “You never get time away from [your twin].” Jessica said. After graduation, both will be heading to Camden County College. While Julia is going for legal studies and Jessica is going to pursue Communication, the girls won’t be too far apart. They purposely set up their class schedules to mirror one another’s. Julia and Jess don’t know what they’d do without each other. They found the idea of life without their twin quite terrifying. Jessica believes that without Julia, she’d be lost. “I feel like she’s a sister that’s the same age as me.” Julia said. Not just twins. Sisters.
Jessica and Julia Bonamassa Dale and Grace Council By OLIVIA COVINGTON ‘19 Features Editor
By JULIA KIRK ‘19 Staff Reporter Serena and Renali Patel are fraternal twin sisters. Though they look similar, people are able to differentiate between the two because Serena has a scar on her cheek. They share clothes, jewelry, and even a car. Renali said, “the weirdest twin related question someone has asked her was, ‘If I hit you, will it hurt Serena?’” They find it beneficial to always have a person to hang out with, but it’s annoying to never be alone. Next year, Serena will be attending the University of Michigan and Renali will be going to Lehigh University. Although they’ll be apart, the experience will allow them to be more independent.
Renali and Serena Patel
“I wouldn’t know who to go to when I need to talk with someone and I would feel lonely and lost without him.” Grace said when asked how different life would be without a twin. “Pretty lonely.” Dale elaborates. Grace and Dale are the only twins in their family, they are fraternal and Dale is older. They are very different people, Grace is more athletic and serious, while Dale is more goofy and prefers hanging out with his friends. “We share nothing, but the same phone bill.” Grace jokes. They are also going their separate ways in terms of colleges, Grace is attending Hampton University to study accounting, and Dale is attending Southern New Hampshire University to study game design. Although they are glad to have some time apart, they will miss each other. Even though they don’t always agree on everything and have to share the same birthday, they look out for each other, and know they have a best friend for life.
For frat can be ha they are s as can be “alpha” w “Brand his little g get away ments tha And pe every now “He tal which Jos UN const Anothe son. Josh better at a relationsh strengths are often the case.
TWINS
The Voyager 7 Hailey and Nathan Dadi By JESSICA BONAMASSA ‘19 Opinion Editor
terms of their ture is nearly s younger and
Twins Nathan and Hailey Dadi are just one of the 13 sets of twins in the senior class. They love having one another to share all of life’s experiences together. Separated by just two minutes, their relationship is ambiguous and different every day. Both Hailey and Nathan have largely different personalities. Luckily, both twins are reassured to have each other in college, as they plan to attend Rutgers Camden together.
ing twins, Ali and Matt com-
separate ways ngs in college r,” said Ali. er high school. ometimes their etimes, we are
Ali and Matt Karpousis By SRISHTI RAMESH ‘19 Online Editor-in-Chief
cardo
Hailey and Shaina Rosenblum
Shaina and Hailey Rosenblum are rarely seen apart. They share similar interests, classes, and friend groups, and are going to the same college--University of Delaware--in the fall. “People don’t really differentiate between us,” Hailey said. At Eastern, the two of them are considered a package deal, which they consider both a pro and a con. Being twins, they always have the other to rely on for help in classes and other situations. But for them, it can also get annoying, as the pair spending time without each other is seen as odd. “Although we do similar things, we do have different personalities,” Shaina said, pointing out that they often have different reactions to stressful situations. When they’re at college, however, they think things will change. They’re not rooming together, and they plan to branch out to make their own friend groups. But, of course, they’ll still have each other. “It’ll be nice to know that I have someone to talk to, if I need to,” Hailey said. While they’re both interested in the sciences, the two of them are not sure what paths they’re going to pursue, whether they will be separate or together. “I feel like it would be weird if we ended up going to different places,” Shaina said, since they’ve been so close for all their lives. There are many twins at Eastern, but none as inseparable as the Rosenblums. “A lot of people ask ‘what’s it like being a twin’ but I don’t know anything different,” Shaina said.
By AHMED ABDOU ‘19 and JULIA DODD ‘19 Staff Reporter Haille and Tressa Medina are identical twins (Tressa is older than three minutes) with no previous twins in the family. They are physically distinguished by hair, but personalitywise some people think Tressa is the quiet one, while others think Haille is. They used to pull pranks by switching classes in grade school and did it once or twice in middle and high school. They consider always having a best friend for their whole life as a perk of being a twin. They couldn’t imagine their life without their twin. They share clothes, a car, and used to share a room. They are going in separate directions after Eastern so it will be the first time they are separated.
By MAANASI NATARAJAN Editor-in-Chief
ternal twins Brandon and Josh Goldstein, it ard to tell at times that they are twins. Although similar in physical traits, they are as different e personality-wise, as Brandon is considered the while Josh the “beta.” don is always taking charge and wants me to be guinea pig,” Josh said, laughing. “I also let him with arguments a lot, but there are a few arguat I choose to win.” erhaps the reason why they get into arguments w and again is because they are so different. lks about camp constantly,” Brandon said (to sh responded with “Well, you talk about Model tantly!”) er downside to being a twin is constant comparih explained that while Brandon has always been academics, he has always thrived in making hips with others -- they each have their own s. Furthermore, Brandon said that as twins, they construed as dependent -- and that’s not always
“It’s good to have someone, but at some point, it gets annoying because people think you’re perennially attached to that person.” While they are opposites, both Brandon and Josh admit that they are especially good at knowing how the other is feeling and reading the other’s body language -to them, it’s one of the best parts of being a twin. “You always have a friend by your side -- someone to study with, to always have a little brain trust,” Brandon said. Josh added that it’s nice to have someone that’s easy to talk to and to share the parts of your day with, something they will miss when going to different colleges. Brandon will be studying International and Political Economics at the Rutgers Honors College, while Josh will be doing the Masters in Education Program at The College of New Jersey. Although their twin experience has not been “conventional,” they could not imagine their lives without each other. “Brandon’s been an amazing brother and influenced me in so many ways. My life would not be the same without him,” Josh said fondly.
Hailee and Tressa Medina
Brandon and Josh Goldstein
8 The Voyager
What I’ve learned from four years with “The Voyager”
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Senior Edition
First Generation college students face extra obstacles
By SRISHTI RAMESH ‘19 Online Editor-in-Chief
igh school has been a world of change, but the one constant throughout my four years has been Room 605: known to some as their AP English III classroom, known to me as Journalism. Taking a class for four years in a row is special in a way that’s hard to describe. Because high school has been such a formative experience for me, being in journalism throughout it all gave me a way to view my change. As a freshman, I was a little bit fearful and a lot stupid. As a senior, I am a lot more confident, but still have so much to learn. That’s okay, though, because journalism class has taught me that you don’t need to be perfect at everything to be worth something. In this class, I’ve learned to cut the fat in my writing, learned to coexist with technology, learned to search for the truth, learned to work hard through obstacles. I’ve learned to form connections and talk to people even if it terrifies me. I’ve learned that just one teacher could change my entire perspective on life, but that’s a story for another time. Since I was young, writing always had a place in my future, but finding my passion for journalism through this
Senior editors Shreya Gowda, Srishti Ramesh, Nancy Bowne, and Lauren Casole go all in for “The Voyager” back in September during the Activities Fair. Photo by W. Bowne class gave me a purpose and a goal to strive for. I still have to grow so much more, but there’s a spark that keeps burning and igniting my love for this field. I haven’t loved much about high school, but I can say for a fact that I loved being a journalism student. I loved walking into 605 every morning. Even though it was difficult and tiring at times, I knew it would be worth it. I loved--and I still do--seeing my name in black print on a finished paper that I put my heart and soul into creating. Mr. Bowne inspires all of his students, and I am absolutely honored to be one of the first people to be inspired every day for four years in a row. I haven’t loved much about high school, but because of journalism, I have found the thing that I want to love for the rest of my life. Maybe that’s more than enough.
A few suggestions about graduation ceremonies By NANCY BOWNE ‘19 Copy Editor
Speeches
The valedictorian and salutatorian present the speeches, representing the student body. The class president also gives a speech. However, this doesn’t always guarantee the best quality speech for the occasion. Instead, Eastern should consider holding a contest amongst seniors. This happens at Cherry Hill East. Contestants write and present their own speech to a board of teachers and administrators, of whom will select the best speech. This way, it is not a “phone in” and everyone has the opportunity to speak at graduation. This spreads the honor to other people not already “distinguished.”
Project Graduation Support
An ongoing issue with project graduation is not having enough parent volunteers and funding. Take a survey amongst seniors on how they would like their project graduation. Make them fundraise and get involved. Project graduation could even be the responsibility Student Council. This would increase interest as well as class morale.
More teachers should attend
Several schools, such as Cherry Hill West, have a big tradition of teachers actively participating in the commencement ceremonies, such as gathered together to shake each senior’s hand. Whether it requires to adjust the grading deadlines or communication, more teachers should be encouraged to attend graduation. It is a school spirit booster as well as encouraging for students to see all parts of their high school experience at play.
Procession to the field
Students should walk in alphabetical order; not by choice of the students. Such “student choice” causes unnecessary drama and disorganization on an important day. Think about it: would you be able to pick “one” friend from high school? Rather than have students feel awkward about asking or being excluded, the students should be arranged in alphabetical order. Even though they do not receive their diploma on the field, alphabetical order provides a neutral, non-conflict solution. Alphabetical order would also make it easier for family members to listen for their child’s name, rather than a ‘random assortment.’
June 2019
Wonderful Graduation Traditions Participation of the music department is a very welcoming way to present student talent as well as morale. Eastern’s band plays Pomp and Circumstance and the choir of seniors sing a special song. Decorated caps add a personal touch for each graduate. Time of commencement and setting of football stadium allow for families to be present as well as set at the school Honoring retiring staff members and Teacher of the Year.
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By JULIA KIRK ‘19 Staff Reporter
pplying to college is difficult. But for those with parents that never endured the application process themselves, it’s a lot harder. A first-generation college student is someone whose legal guardians have not received a degree from a four year institution. Oftentimes, a firstgeneration student is the first one in their family to attend college. There’s the issue of financing tuition costs, making sure all of the criteria for their submission is completed, and managing to stand out among a wide applicant pool. Having experience with these situations gives an advantage to those following in the footsteps of their parents to pursue college degrees. In today’s job market, having a degree could be the deciding factor regarding employment. Attending college isn’t always a choice, but rather a necessity for some families. Senior Rylee Evans is a first-generation student whose parents took a few classes at Camden County College prior to entering the workforce. She said, “I decided that I want to do more in my life than office work and I want to make an impact on the world.” Attending a four-year college will offer more opportunities to her and a degree will set her up for success in the future. Mr. Walter Bowne said, “I went to college because I attended Eastern and it’s what my friends were doing.” However, he wasn’t initially sure of “It’s important to carve whether he would a niche and develop attend a university. people skills, especially Bowne entertained at a big university. the idea of attending Don’t be a number, be a a trade or vocational name,” said Bowne. school, or even joining the military. He was a firstgeneration college student whose mother completed two years at a community college and his father had learned the printing trade. He did not have anyone at home to offer tips and suggestions about networking and finding internships, and working while balancing his classes was a struggle. Over time, he was able to improve his grades and he is now familiar with the process and encourages his daughters to get involved. A guidance counselor said, “Colleges will support firstgeneration students one on one to help them navigate the new environment.” There are resources built in for students if they just look in the right places. Utilizing internships and forging relationships with professors are just a couple of ways students can make the most of their time in college. Evans said, “Colleges should make the process for first generation students a little bit more personal since the process is intimidating.” She suggested sending emails and offering help to incoming students. She added that having real representatives reach out would make the entire process seem less daunting. While the admissions process offers its own inherent difficulties, first-generation students are ideal applicants that have academic merit and the drive to persevere through their studies. “It’s important to carve a niche and develop people skills, especially at a big university. Don’t be a number, be a name,” said Bowne.
Jordan Edmondson wins New Jersey Best of the Class Performing Arts
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By NICHOLE HALL ‘19 Staff Reporter
ordan Edmondson got his start in Osage’s production of Goin’ Buggy. Thirteen plays later, Edmondson was on stage at the state’s high school award ceremony. Out of the thousands of theatre kids across north and south Jersey, Edmonson had won for Performing Arts. Edmondson has been in many plays and musicals throughout his young life, and has held many different roles. Some of his favorite characters to play over the years were Drew from Rock of Ages and his role in the Barbershop Quartet this year in The Music Man. His all time favorite role was playing The Beast in Beauty and the Beast in 7th grade.
“I want to be in a Disney film.” Edmondson said. “That’s my dream. To turn my passion into what I do.” His plan to do that? Start at the bottom and make his way up. He hopes to be at the start of that journey in the next ten years. He also hope to be fully independent by then, citing his wish to own an apartment or house by then as well. Edmondson’s biggest inspiration is Lin Manuel Miranda of Hamtilton fame. Edmondson cites Miranda’s insurmountable love for performing as why. “He’s so talented and he’s always so content with whatever role he’s playing.” Edmondson said. “Even when he only had one little voice line, he was so excited for it.” Edmondson will be attending Montclair State University to study Musical Theatre. He plans to minor in something film related, such as camera work.
June 2019
Senior Edition
The Voyager 9
Leaving the Nest: Grads soon grow their flight feathers By CAMERON DAVIS ‘19 Staff Reporter
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eaving your parent or guardian’s household, a place that has kept you safe and fed for all of your life, is a difficult leap to make. Whether you’re going to college or not, all of us will try to jump out of the nest or receive an encouraging kick in the rear end eventually. It’s the final and hardest step of becoming an adult. Packing up and leaving can be emotional, and that pain can be even worse for our parents watching the joy of their life abandon the room they sheltered you in; leaving a void and throwing off the whole household dynamic. Many graduates share different stories about their transition to an independent adult. The truth is everyone takes on their own journey after high school. “My transition was different honestly” said my neighbor Sean Bukhari. “I still didn’t know what I wanted to do after high school. You don’t realize how little your problems are compared to when you get older.” Asking your parents about their experience and advice is very helpful. My mom has always told me she didn’t make the right decisions coming straight out of high school given her circumstances. She pushes me not only to pursue something worthwhile but to use the time I have to travel and enjoy life. Regardless of what your parents wish for you, you have to be eye to eye with them. If you want to go off to college and study something they’re
not a fan of then you need to get them behind you every step of the way. Our parents are supposed to help guide us, not dictate our every action up to college graduation or whatever lies in your future. Dylan Hoffman, a 20-year-old coworker of mine, said “Don’t rush into anything and just take it all one day at a time, always live for the moment and don’t spend all your time stressing over the future.” When asked about whether or not he was nervous about graduating, Dylan said “[I wasn’t] nervous, but after I graduated I missed high school and still miss it.” Dylan described high school as a time where he was young, free and had no care in the world. After graduating, he bought an apartment for himself and lived alone for a short while. “It can be lonely and you can find yourself struggling with money and basic necessities.” Many students will not have the same struggles Dylan had if they’re going off to college; but his experience is a testament to how hard it can be to take up full responsibility for yourself after you leave home. “Living with others is really important to me, only because living by yourself is boring and you put yourself into your own thoughts a lot.” I also took to Reddit to find what adults around the world had to say about the struggles of living alone. The
What will seniors miss about high school? Maecy James:
I’m really going to miss a lot of things at Eastern like the formal events, spirit week, etc. I’m really going to miss Mr. Anderson and Mrs. Walker, they always helped me out and you can tell they really care about your future and they want you to succeed.
Bryan Eichen:
In Mrs. Praesel’s class, we went to a creek to catch bugs and fish which was pretty cool I guess, overall just had a lot of fun in her class.
Alexondria McMillan:
I would miss Dr. Tull and Mrs. Palmer because they were always there for me to vent and gave me a place to do work and release any stress. I would also miss Mrs. Spinogatti, because she always made me feel comfortable when at guidance and was a mother-figure at school. Lastly, I would miss being a part of a sports team and having that second family.
Alexa Grabelle:
I’ll miss Mrs. Palmer, she was my Model UN advisor as well as the teacher of GT, which I took all 4 years of high
Artwork by Srishti Ramesh ‘19
overwhelming response was struggling with money and meal prep. “Anything money related,” said one user. “I’m too proud to ask for help so I’ve had LONG weeks of eating a pack of ramen a day or less.” Another user said, “Someone to cook and meal prep every day. It is such a mental drain and time consuming, and my mom handled it like a champ, with 3 boys in the house.” Our parents provide us with more than we may realize on a daily basis. Leaving for college or moving out into an apartment means your mom or dad won’t be there to do your laundry or cook breakfast, lunch and dinner as many parents do.
When reality sinks in
school. She helped me to develop my academic passions which I will pursue in college.
Taylor Thompson:
Last year Mrs. Walker would always encourage us and strive for us to do our best as students. In an AP class the coursework is hard, but thanks to her help I ended the year with a 100. She cares about her student’s well-being and is always checking in on us and helping us wherever needed.
Petra Arinze:
I’ll miss Mr. McAleer because he always made me excited to go to class and made history interesting and fun.
Dariyah Corbett-Collier:
I’ll miss all the track coaches and teachers (Fulton, Malone, Butler). I’ll miss track and the track family so much.
Kelly Foley:
I’ll definitely miss the friends I’ve made in high school, the teachers that really cared about my education, and leaving early to go get Chick-fil-a with my friends.
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By JULIA KIRK ‘19 Staff Reporter
t was so weird. I stood in centerfield, but my mind wasn’t focused on the game. I kept pondering the idea of how it would be my last time playing with my teammates; it would be the last time I ever stepped onto the diamond. I knew heading into senior year I would be leaving a lot of things behind, but it never really clicked until it was happening right in front of me. Joni Mitchell sings, “you don’t know what you’ve got ‘till it’s gone” and it’s just that. Our whole elementary to middle to high school careers have built off of one another and, for the most part, we have maintained contact with the same people. And the realization that this is going to dramatically change postgraduation is just beginning to hit. I won’t see the same faces I passed in the halls for the last four years. I won’t have three classes a day with my best friend. And I won’t be able to make a quick stop at home to do laundry. All of us will be out in the real world. We’ll have bills to pay and responsibilities to fulfill. There are plenty of firsts to be had, and plenty of lasts to cherish. Despite the sadness that accompanies moving on, we need to take the step into adulthood and gain our own independence. We will pursue careers based on our interests. We will lead successful lives. And we will grow into mature individuals with the capability of making a difference in the world. As the batter whiffed at an inside fastball, the umpire called the third strike, and so my softball career was retired...but my life was just beginning.
10 The Voyager
Senior Edition
June 2019
Staying close to home for college
economics--is offered at only a few places across the nation, Penn being one of them. “I see being close to home as an added benefit,” Grabelle said. She’ll be able to ollege: a time of come home if she wants to switch out independence, when you outfits for her wardrobe, or see family for can get away from your a holiday. parents and your hometown However, she stated that she likes the and become something new. idea of moving far away and getting a And yet, many choose to fresh start for college, and won’t get to stay fairly close to home for their further experience that. “I think I’m far enough education. Why? away that they [her family] won’t infringe Well, it often depends on personal upon my experience, though,” she added. situations. Some people may want to move Ultimately, the reason she chose Penn was far away--and will thrive in that situationfor educational reasons rather than the -but others may decide fact that it was not far away that they’re better off Staying close to home from Voorhees. closer to home, where for college isn’t the Additionally, students they can come home easiest decision to may stay close to home for meals or for support make, especially because of a specific from their family. since flying across the program at a certain school, Senior Sapna Modi, country to go to school as in Meghna Mathews’ who is attending Rowan is heavily romanticized. case. She was admitted into next fall and commuting Rowan’s BS-MD program, from home, decided to which gives her guaranteed stay at home mostly track into medical school after undergrad. because she did not want to move away Rowan wasn’t her first choice in her from family. medical program applications, but it was “You do save a lot for tuition, and the one she ended up getting into, so it was you know the area,” she said. The only just chance that it was so close to home. negative side she found was that she However, she still appreciates being able may not get the full college experience, to come home if she’s homesick. due to not staying in a dorm or having a Staying close to home for college isn’t roommate. the easiest decision to make, especially However, that isn’t the only reason that since flying across the country to go to students stay close to home. Senior Alexa school is heavily romanticized. However, Grabelle, who is attending the University it’s clear that there are pros and cons to of Pennsylvania next year, wasn’t even the scenario, and the reasoning is often considering distance while applying dependent on the student’s particular to schools. She inevitably chose Penn circumstances. because the major she wanted--behavioral By SRISHTI RAMESH ‘19 Online Editor-in-Chief
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Seniors Julia Lenhart (top left), Jade Kenny (top right), Aakriti Das (bottom left), and Rashi Sanghavi (bottom right) smile as they showcase their college acceptances. Photo by Priya Modi ‘19
Decorating a dorm room on a budget Making a cramped space look good can be hard and it’s even harder on a college students budget. Here are some tips to make this process easier. By SOPHIE FERGUSON ‘19 Staff Reporter
than most Amazon options and comes in solid colors or trendy patterns like constellations or peaches. College students need to keep magine living in a dorm room. their desk organized, so creating a A small, dull space in desperate magnetic makeup board from a dry need of a touch up. With a tight erase board will keep messy makeup budget and a little creativity off of the desk and off books. At a that same, boring dorm can be craft store, pick up small magnets and transformed into a chic living space. a glue gun. Hot Since the bed takes glue the magnets up most of the dorm, it Having an accent wall onto the back should be the basis for Phoro by Sophie Ferguson ‘19. in a dorm brings out of the makeup An easy way to organize make-up and jewelry products. the room’s decor. After on the desk need a place to go. Using the color theme bring a warm feeling to the individual personality. containers, and coordinating colors then place the makeup same magnets and glue gun, take any kind dorm. Soft rugs are fun at first, but they with roommates, the up on the board. Grab of small container and hot glue magnets become hard to maintain. The more bed needs sheets, a magnetic locker mirror, which are onto the back of it. I recommend using old practical the rug the better. pillows, and other blankets. Although the available on Amazon, and place it in the tea bag tins for a colorful look. Then stick Having an accent wall in a dorm brings most common size dorm bed is a twin or center of the board. The board can be the containers on the dry erase board or out individual personality. Using washi extra long twin bed, check the size of the decorated with stickers or cute magnets. on the mini fridge. They can be filled up tape, hang up posters in a pattern to keep bed that the school provides. Five Below Besides makeup, the pens and pencils with anything from pencils to bobby pins. the wall organized but artsy. Photos can sells bedding for $5.00 which is cheaper A great way to hang up be hung up using twinkle light strings, pictures or other items on only $9.00 at Target, and old clothespins. the wall is on a cork board. Using clothespins allows for easy rotation Get creative using washi of the photos. tape to decorate the board. Keep in mind that spacing is important If the desk is running out when decorating your dorm. Take an old of room use push pins as waste basket, spray paint it a color that pegs on the board to hang matches the room’s theme, and flip it up scissors or binder clips. upside down to use as a night stand. Space To add flare, use decorative is hard to come by, so get a cushioned push pins which can be seating cube which has a liftable lid. This found on Etsy. creates more storage space in the room A bland room can easily while adding extra seating for guests. be spruced up using colors Besides decorating, maintaining and prints. Dorm rugs organization will make the dorm look its available on www.dormco. best. Keep in mind that decorating a dorm com that match the room’s can be done on a budget.
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Senior Edition
June 2019
The Voyager 11
Will “Assassin” become new senior tradition?
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By MAANASI NATARAJAN ‘19 Editor-in-Chief
s the school year comes to a close, seniors have a lot on their minds. They’re moving onto the next chapter of life, preparing to move away for college or work in the real world while simultaneously attempting to balance all the end of year events: Senior Banquet, Graduation, graduation parties, and...water guns. This year, seniors have added a twist to end of year festivities with an intense game of Senior Assassin -- a game that no one has taken lightly. Senior Assassin has gained popularity among many local area high schools as being a thrilling end-of-year activity. The rules of the game are simple: each player is assigned a “target,” or a person they have to shoot with a water gun before each 7-day long round is over. The goal is to assassinate your target using tips sent out through the “Assassin Twitter” about their locations and lives in general to find them when they least expect it, all while avoiding your own assassin and watching your back
Alyssa Middleton gets Serena Patel out.
with every step you take. If you fail to assassinate your target before the 7-day long period is over, you are automatically eliminated and your assassin claims your target. At the end of the game, there is one winner, and his or her prize? Bragging rights and top senior assassin. The game was organized by senior Michelle Litvak, who saw that other high schools, particularly Cherry Hill East, had assembled their own game of Assassin that was met with high engagement from the senior class. “I felt like our grade is Photo supplied. Mikala Zuber gets Kena Patel out. so divided and planning strategies while hiding from their assassins,” said it would be a good way for everyone to get to know each Angie Le. “I feel like every grade should do something super inclusive like this.” other,” Litvak said. Senior Noam Margalit agreed, but added that an incenShe explained that she posted on social media tive may have made the game even more enjoyable. encouraging her friends to sign up, which led “Maybe in future years, there should be a prize at the to many others reposting information about the end,” she said. “Some people got tired of the game pretty game on their social media accounts and thus a quickly and didn’t care if they got out.” rather large pool of players. Overall, Litvak is more than happy with how the game “With that many people, it was pretty difficult turned out, and, more than anything else, the way it organizing it, especially making the pairings and brought the senior class together -- in an unconventional making sure the whole system looped around so way -one last time before graduating. that the game kept going,” Litvak recalled. “It was awesome getting texts from everyone saying how It seems that the frustrations and hiccups along happy they were that the game was happening and I was the way were not for nothing -- many seniors glad I did it for everyone,” Litvak said. “It’s been stressful, feel that this was a great way to end the year off. but so worth it!” “It was super fun with everyone excited and
Photo Supplied.
Culinary Chopped Culinary seniors participate in a Chopped-style cooking competition to demonstrate the knowledge they gained during the year.
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BY JESSICA BONAMASSA ‘19 Opinion Editor
ulinary is the one class juniors can’t wait to pick on their course selection for senior year. And Chopped is one of the most interactive and beloved activities in culinary. Ms. Samaha started this activity around four years ago, and it has proved to be a tremendous hit. “The kids love to compete with each other. They really have fun doing it and love to show off for the teachers,” she said. Although the event is fun and exciting, lots of time and effort goes into planning it. According to Ms. Samaha, without a doubt preparing for this event every year is quite the process. “I rack my brains every year,” she said. “l do internet searches, watch the show, and I have to come up with foods that I know my students would work well with.” Ms. Samaha makes sure to prep the students before the competition and gives tips on what to do with the ingredients. When students are unsure of what to do with given ingredients, she encourages them to rely on things we have made in the past. In order for the competition to be taken seriously, volunteer teacher judges must be present. There has been great support from teachers to be judges for the competition. Without teachers to judge, the competition wouldn’t be nearly as fun, or memorable. They heighten the bar for each of the classes because students aim to impress their teachers with well-presented, tasty dishes. Every year, teacher involvement varies. Mr. Smart, Dr. Mink, Mr. Ragean, Mr. Trinker, and many other staff members have participated in chopped over the years. For teachers on the fence about participating as judges, Ms. Samaha assures them that they only have to taste
a little bit, and none of the ingredients are too weird. However, being a judge comes at a price. “Dr. Borda came one year,” Ms. Samaha re- Kitchen Hacks, another culinary class project, are shown Photo by Lauren Casole ‘19 called, “She said on ETV News Live. she felt sick afthe remainder of the competition. terwards and never came back.” If he could change anything about the experience, She noted that Dr. Borda ate a mixture of barbeque Jordan would speak up more about what he needs sauce and pickles. within his group because getting his point across was Two-year Chopped judge, Ms. O’Keefe, loves volun“difficult”. teering her time for the event. “I feel like chopped was a big thing my senior year “It’s just fun [to volunteer] and the food is always because I always watched the show, so doing a small good,” she said. variation of it was kind of cool,” he said. Ms. O’Keefe recalls that when she first started workOnly one group in Chopped history has been unable ing here, old culinary teacher Mrs. Taylor had a muffin to present a dish. bake-off and always looked forward to it. When she was Originally, a small project was created to help the asked to volunteer this year for Chopped, her participastudents get through the end of the school year and so tion wasn’t even up for question. that they could enjoy themselves. This project became “Any time we need volunteers to taste a bunch of food, famously known as chopped and will continue to be an I’m like, ‘There’s only one right answer to that quesEastern tradition for years to come. tion!’” “Chopped taught me how to improvise on the spot O’Keefe believes chopped promotes creativity and and do quick thinking. It solidified those skills, and I teamwork and that it’s a good activity for the students realized that criticism is fun,” said Jordan Lewis. because it’s based on a show they’re familiar with. A suggestion made by the students for future years is Senior Jordan Lewis, part of Ms. Samaha’s period 5 to have the competition winners from each class have culinary class, loves this competition but admits it was a a face-off. The main objective of Chopped from Ms. little nerve-wracking. Samaha’s perspective is that the students simply have His basket was potato chips, chicken, and marinara fun and enjoy themselves. sauce. Jordan’s idea of making nachos was not what the rest of his team had in mind. After a bit of discrepancy, Jordan says his group got it together and worked well for
Senior Edition
12 The Voyager
June 2019
Vanessa Bein, Julia Kirk, and Mehak Bhasin Dancing!
Shimoli Parikh, Dominick Parungao, Kelvin Tai, and Ronak Thakur Yewon Yang and Kelly Foley Lauren Casole and Ali Karpousis
Senior Banquet Emilie Lee and Julianna Colontonio
Jamie Schulman and Emma Coyne
Marissa Pavorksy, Meghna Mathews, and Janu Selvam
Nancy Bowne, Caleb Schneider, Bobby Weil, Gabbie Bourla
Christine Anasco and Julianna Colontonio
Gigi Gallucci and Ciara Miller Photos by Srishti Ramesh ‘19