High Tide June 6, 2025

Aces and academics

Bobby Bennett's talents in the classroom and on the court earned him a spot at Princeton

by Rowan Devore

After his introduction to volleyball, Bobby Bennett chose to dedicate his time in high school to being the best student athlete possible. Three years later, he committed to Princeton University after enhancing his prowess in the classroom and on the volleyball court.

Showing the dedication it takes to play on a competitive team, Bennett illustrates how he betters himself and pushes himself to the max. By putting in the extra work and taking no days off, Bennett competes at a high level in practice everyday, tweaking his skills and growing as a player.

“I knew I was going to play in college, so just trying to come into practice every day, whether it was coming in early or staying late, trying to get better [was a priority]. Everybody on our team has kind of bought into that," Bennett said.

Bennett and his RUHS and club teammate, Connor Bebe, have been playing together for three years and have watched each other excel in the sport. Bebe explains the growth in skill he has seen Bennett demonstrate through his hard work and determination.

“He started playing freshman year. And I was like, ‘You got to play,’ because he was extremely athletic and he was tall. We needed someone like that. So we started to have him play some high school ball, and then he moved over to club, and developed there a little bit and that's where he really grew as a player and his skill as well. That's how he got to play D1,” Bebe said.

Bringing his sharp learning ability to both the volleyball court and the classroom, Bennett’s quick thinking makes him a standout player and student. His ability

to analyze the game reflects his academ ic curiosity, showing that his intelligence is not just for volleyball, it extends to his studies as well.

“I've always been a STEM guy. I en joyed math and science a lot more. But then I took [AP] Econ this year, and [AP] Econ has been my favorite class I've taken, and it's my ideal pairing between humanities and then also a STEM major. I'm able to incorpo rate statistical data analysis with, analyzing market trends and analyzing buyer kind of incen tives,” Bennett said.

Evolving from a quiet first-year-player to becoming team captain on both his club and high school team, Ben nett’s growth has been marked by bettering his expertise and an undeniable presence. More than just a strong player, he has a unique ability to shift the mo mentum of a game by rallying his teammates, causing their energy to shift for the better.

“The energy when he gets going: he gets going, and he gets everyone else up. It's like a snowball effect. As soon as he starts hitting well, he's starting to bring everyone togeth er, causing everyone to start to play

better. And the energy is infectious,” Bebe

Although the decision to choose where he wanted to attend for the next four years was not easy, Bennett explains how he knew Princeton University was where he wanted to go.

“I took my visit and just fell in love with the school and fell in love with the culture. I think it's the people. Every time I went out there, the guys on the team and everybody I met- they were super welcoming, super happy that I was there and super personable. I made connections with a ton of people, almost instantly, which didn't really happen for me at other schools,” Bennett said.

“Being able to talk with those people or get the help and the resources that I need was super big for me, so that's why I picked Princeton.”

Caitlyn Kelly experienced growth through playing and coaching

by Kate Lanzdorf

Hearing the whoosh of lacrosse balls flying through the air gives Caitlyn Kelly a sense of comfort from how long she has played lacrosse. Kelly plans to continue playing lacrosse for another four years at Slippery Rock University next fall.

Kelly’s earliest memories of playing lacrosse trace back to the people she was surrounded by. Connecting with teammates and coaches was the highlight of her first practice.

“I like having the chance to give someone the love of the sport that I got from my coaches and influ ences early on,” Kelly said. “To be that person motivated me to work hard as a coach for [the kids].”

Kelly's coaches asked her to coach middle schoolers. After agreeing to help out, she was given a new perspective on the sport by watching on the sidelines.

“[The most re warding aspect to coaching] is that they get excited when I

come to practices and games,” Kelly said. “I love seeing when they’re super happy with their game, or they’re smiling about the successes they find.”

Freshman Reese Olinger was coached by Kelly in middle school. She first witnessed Kelly play while watching her older sister’s game. Olinger is now on the lacrosse team, and has played several games alongside Kelly this year.

“When I first saw her playing, I just thought, ‘Oh my God. She is amazing.’ She was crushing it,” Olinger said. “She was catching the ball and doing crazy tricks. She was playing amazing defense, amazing attack and winning draws. She was so encouraging to her teammates, too. After every goal one of her teammates made, she always gave them a hug. I aspire to be like her someday.”

Balancing seriousness and pleasure can be a struggle. Kelly, however, has experience leading both aspects of the sport through coaching and captaining lacrosse.

JOAQUIN JONES

“She is a natural leader. I saw that immediately,” Olinger said. “As soon as she started talking, everyone went silent and gave her attention, which is cool because she gained their respect without being mean.”

While at Slippery Rock, she will major in exercise science.

“[I’m most excited about college lacrosse] for the high intensity,” Kelly said. “Being able to play at a level that everyone is competing for playing time, competing against really impressive teams. Also just being a part of a culture where everyone is there because they love it.”

I

‘This is where I’m meant to be,’” Kelly said. “When I met the team, they were so fun and hyped, and all of them were there for a reason and loved to be there. Their passion as a program drew me in a lot.”

Putting so much effort and time into a sport is difficult; Kelly has three calendars to keep up. While it may have been a challenge, finishing strong was ultimately the best reward.

having the chance to give someone the love of the sport that I got from my coaches and influences early on,"

Kelly committed to Slippery Rock because of the early conversations she had with her team. The mutual interest between her and her coaches and the kindness that was shown to her grabbed her attention.

Caitlyn Kelly SENIOR “

“When I was on my club team, I played on the East Coast a lot. This past summer, we had gone undefeated. Coming from an underdog area of lacrosse, being on the East Coast really put our names on the map. The success of climbing to the top felt so good, and it was so worth fighting for. I loved every minute.”

“When I got to the campus, a feeling rushed through me that made me think,

“I

Beyond the game

by Isabella Nguyen

Growing up, Michael Hines spent his time practicing swings inside the batting cage and constructing marble tracks or model rockets; the beginning of his interest in baseball and engineering. During high school, he took STEM classes and competed on the baseball team. All building up to this moment—him waiting in his room for a call from Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology.

“I was pretty excited […] They said ‘Yeah, we would like to have you.’ It took me a few weeks to decide, but I ultimately wanted to attend,” Hines said. “[Rose-Hul-

Michael Hines looks back on his high school years as a baseball player as he readies himself to attend Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology in the fall as an engineering major

man] is the number one undergraduate program in the US for engineering. It’s a great community of people who can work together on engineering projects.”

Hines shared his commitment with the baseball team during practice, which included senior Kekoa Kapu. Meeting in kindergarten, the two grew close while on the same baseball team in middle school and high school.

“I was super happy for him, because that was one of his schools he wanted to go to and he had the opportunity to play baseball there,” Kapu said. “He has been a hard worker, especially in the classroom and on the field. All that work, it builds up, and over time, he has gotten to where he is be-

cause of that, and he deserves it.”

Looking back over his high school years, Hines has certainly grown from his younger self—the “really timid,” smallest freshman on the team—to a senior prepared for the “next chapter” of his life as a mechanical engineering major and a college baseball player.

“We had Senior Night last night, and my one piece of advice to freshmen was that, ‘You are gonna grow from freshman to senior year.’ I have grown seven inches and put on 40 pounds since freshman year. But as a freshman, I was the smallest person there," Hines said. “I was super nervous and compared myself to others, but I have grown over that and it has definitely helped me be a lot more positive.”

Although excited for his future at Rose-Hulman competing in college-level baseball, Hines will miss his teammates who have accompanied him throughout high school. From providing support during games to taking a team field trip to Las Vegas for a tournament, Hines has made many cherished memories on the varsity baseball team.

“I have a ton of friends who are juniors, and my brother is a sophomore. I will miss a bunch of them, especially all my friends who are seniors, who are going off to different colleges than me,” Hines said.

During the summer, Hines took two

courses at Harvard—Principles of Economics: Microeconomics and Propaganda, Past and Present—giving him a glimpse of college workload.

“You don’t have anybody to push you, or keep track of you, [who says] ‘Oh you gotta do your homework now.’ It was interesting,” Hines said. “It helped me become more independent. A big part of that was creating study groups with people. You’re not gonna get through a college class on your own. You might be able to do that in high school, but in college, the work’s a lot more difficult.”

At Rose-Hulman, Hines plans to take things one step at a time, and “see where it takes [him].” Although engineering will be challenging, Hines will be surrounded by a community of engineers. Hines notes that being able to major in engineering is another opportunity to live his life to its fullest extent.

“A lot of people know Noah Chang, but I played with him for a long time. He was my best friend, and he died when he was 12. We were on the same baseball team, but I have been taking advantage of the opportunities that I get,” Hines said. “I’m so lucky that God has been giving me more days to live and to take advantage of. I make the most out of every opportunity that I get, live in the moment and have a good time.”

by Aashka Bhuptani

Hannah Gastelum is a force on the field. But now, she is trading in her jersey for justice. A former participant in girls flag football and track and field, she is now heading to the University of New Haven to study Criminal Justice with a minor in Investigative Services—pursuing her dream of becoming a police officer.

“Juggling two sports in high school challenged me [...] both physically and mentally. I met lots of people and I was able to form friendships with my coaches and other students on the team,” Gastelum said.

Although she has played sports since childhood, Gastelum’s competitive edge sharpened at RUHS. Sports made her build discipline, teamwork and resilience—qualities that now define her on and off the field.

“I’ve played lots of sports, mainly soccer when I was younger, but when I came to RUHS, I played basketball my first year, and then I went into weight training. Later, I was recruited by some of my friends who already played girls flag football. So I tried out, and then I made the team. For track and field, the coach asked the manager to get me to try out,” Gastelum said.

Though Gastelum had never competed in track and field before high school, her background in other athletics laid a strong foundation for her success. A casual observation during a flag football game quickly turned into a defining moment for her athletic career. Recognizing her instincts and coordination, Matthew Smalling and the track coaches encouraged her to channel that same intensity into throwing events.

“We discovered Hannah when she was in flag football, and I was looking at the field, going, ‘Look at the foot movement on that one. She is clearly an athlete,’”

Smalling said. “She took that athletic ability and brought it to shot put and discus, turning into one of the top throwers in the Southern Section [...] She made it to the final 18 out of 600 schools.”

Her performance caught the attention of the University of New Haven’s track and field coach, who reached out to Smalling—creating an opportunity that aligned Gastelum’s athletic talent with her academic ambitions.

“I was [at the campus] for two days, and they recruited me for their team. Out of the five different colleges that recruited

me, [the University of New Haven] gave me the most scholarship funding, but they also have much better programs [...] nationally ranked over top five for their criminal justice program, and they do internships with the FBI, Secret Service [and] CIA,” Gastelum said.

Smalling played a pivotal role in connecting Gastelum with New Haven’s recruiters. After hearing from their coach, he made sure to vouch for her strengths—not just as an athlete, but as a person.

“I remember distinctly, I was in the warehouse talking to the coach and explaining how Hannah’s the exact kind of athlete you want on your college roster. With the ability to compete in three out of four major throwing events—shot put, discus and hammer throw—Hannah stood out. Not many athletes can say they can compete in three different events in college,” Smalling

said.

As she reflects on her journey—balancing two sports and preparing for a future in Criminal Justice—she credits her athletics for shaping her into someone stronger and more disciplined.

“Sports pushed me in ways I never expected [...] But they also showed me what I’m capable of,” Gastelum said, “I’ve learned how to lead, how to communicate and how to keep going even when things get tough. Those lessons will stay with me far beyond high school.”

PHOTO BY TREASURED MOMENTS

Gastelum playing football. PHOTO COURTESY OF HANNAH GASTELUM

Hines batting. PHOTO COURTESY OF MICHAEL HINES

MORE than the SCORE

by Marlena Lipan

With 0.6 seconds left on the shot clock and a point deficit of 12, the girls varsity basketball managed to get a five second violation call, leading them to score and go into overtime, resulting in a miraculous, winning comeback of 12 points. Olivia Dinisco, the current captain of the team, played a significant role in this win, and has contributed to the varsity team since she was a freshman.

“When I first got there freshman year, it was great because all of [the older girls] were really welcoming and supportive. They guided me, especially since I was up and down a lot, and they would make sure I was comfortable and felt like I belonged,” Dinisco said.

Playing for both JV and varsity teams her freshman year, her high school experience revolved around the basketball team schedule. She emphasizes that this heavy schedule allowed her to form deep bonds with her teammates.

“Being on the team definitely helped me develop personal connections because there were so many girls that I could relate to, and

I was spending hours on end during the week with these girls, so I created so many great friendships that I would not have if I wasn’t in this program,”

Dinisco said.

During Dinisco’s sophomore year, she was one of the only two sophomores on varsity, along with Coco Funakoshi, who shares how this challenge pushed them into a strong friendship.

“We depended on each other a lot. I think that we grew closer because we only had each other, so we had to depend on each other,” Funakoshi said.

Funakoshi notes that Dinisco’s work ethic impacted her own, and how through their shared dedication for the sport they are passionate about, Funakoshi grew not only athletically, but morally.

the court as well because I think that it is so admirable,” Funakoshi said.

Throughout her athletic career, Dinisco had encountered multiple sports injuries, including shin splints and foot issues. Additionally, she endured a devastating ankle injury where two ligaments were torn during a Costa game during her senior year.

This put her in a boot and required surgery, taking her out for the rest of the season.

“After her injury, she had a very different role on the team. She was like a coach to us. A lot of it was supporting us not physically on the court, but through supportive words and advice,” Funakoshi said.

hopes to continue playing sports in college, motivated by the support she has received from the Redondo sports community.

“I am not grateful for the injury itself, but I am appreciative of what I got to learn from it,” Dinisco said. “It made me realize how much this sport and the program meant to me, and how much my community supported me. It made me realize how much it meant to be part of something bigger than myself and helped me realize how much I loved it.”

“I’ve learned so much through how hard [Dinisco] works. She does all of the little things in terms of basketball, like rebounding and really hurting for every play. I really try to embody that whenever I’m on

While Dinisco’s sports career may have been halted shortly before the season ended, she played an extremely successful first year on flag football her senior year in adddition to her contributions to the basketball team. She plans to attend Arizona State University to major in finance, and

Teilar Fry shares the growth, challenges and determination that carried her to college softball

by Rowan Devore

Switching between pitching fast aggressive balls to the opposing teams and catching high balls while commanding the outfield, Teilar Fry helped lead her team to win their game in the first round of CIF.

Pitching fastballs to the opposing teams, Fry felt large amounts of pressure to avoid letting the competitors get on base. By be-

ing able to take the pressure and stress that comes with pitching, she be comes a threat.

“I chose to be a pitcher because even though softball is a team sport, being a pitcher, you have a lot more pressure on you, and I like having a bigger role. I did play first base until I was probably 11 or 12, but I liked pitching more, and since I'm a lefty, it's harder for people to hit me, so it worked out,” Fry said.

Wanting to get recruited to play college softball, Fry was under immense amounts of stress due to injuries that came up in the prime months of her recruiting process. Trying to push past these issues, she spent large amounts of time working hard and putting herself out there to get colleges to notice her skills.

“Last fall I got hurt, and that’s ju nior year's prime for your recruiting process. And then I had tendinitis in my elbow, so I couldn't do anything. Then going into the summer, Colora do is one of the biggest tournaments for travel ball, and I was out there for two weeks, camps every single day, four

hours a day. I was doing all star games at night. It was a lot, and it's a huge emotional toll,” Fry said.

Fry and her Redondo teammate, Alise Rivera, have played together since freshman year, and Rivera finds that Fry’s growth throughout the years has been a large stepping stone for the team's improvement and success.

“At the start she was more of a quiet leader, and more in the background of things. But as the season progressed, she became more vocal and was more of a stronger leader,” Rivera said. “She's always doing everything she can to be the best player, and she's a good leader in the sense that she is always making good plays. She's a very consistent hitter and definitely brings the energy to our team."

As Fry prepares to graduate, Rivera reflects on the lasting impact her teammate had, both through her performance and her presence. The drive Fry brought to Redondo softball left a lasting impact on all her teammattes, allowing them to reflect

on what they will miss the most about her presence.

“Just with her presence, she's a strong player. She's a great outfielder. I think they'll definitely miss her on the field and up to bat, and she hits really well too, everything about her will be missed,” Rivera said.

Fry's decision to choose University of Nebraska Kearney was influenced by wanting to play at a competitive level in college. By understanding the challenges that come with playing at a high level, she acknowledges how hard she will have to work and illustrates that by setting goals for herself on and off the field, she will have a good college experience.

“As an incoming college freshman, It's pretty hard to get a starting spot, especially on a college level team, but I'm working as hard as I can to get opportunities. I'm also a hitter, not a pitcher only, so I'll find my way if I hit,” Fry said. “Even if I don't start, I have other goals for when I go to the school. I want to be a physical therapist, so I'm majoring in kinesiology and want to finish all four years.”

1. Dinisco high-fives her teamates after a play

2. Dinisco clutches football after scoring a touchdown

3. Dinisco guards the ball from an opposing team

PHOTOS COURTESY OF OLIVIA DINISCO

Preparing for takeoff

Matheus Nguyen speaks on his experience as freshman ambassador for cross-country, and his next steps to attend Air Force Academy

by Jayla Dorbor

Flying by the glistening beaches of California, Matheus Nguyen expiriences his longest, but favorite, but longest, flight to San Louis Obispo. This isn just one of the flights that prepared Nguyen to attend the Air Force Academy in the fall.

Nguyen became interested in the Air Force Academy in middle school when he visited it at his cousin's graduation. After that, he started flying recreationally and realized he wanted to attend the academy.

“I flew at Sling Pilot Academy up in Torrance. They had a promotion for free flights, so I did one of those, and I absolutely loved it, but it was too much money, so I couldn’t fly. My dad [eventually] reached out to the academy, and they had scholarships, so I applied, and I got it. I was able to further my flying, and now I have 80 hours,” Nguyen said. “Once I started flying, because I fly recreationally, I realized that the Air Force Academy was a great place that’ll help me further that hobby of mine, or that pursuit that I wanted to follow, so I decided to stick with it.”

To get accepted to the Air Force Academy, Nguyen had to have exceptional grades and extracurriculars, pass a physical exam and obtain a nomination from a congressperson.

“It was just a little bit of luck and a lot of personality. I applied online to the Congressional website, sent in my application via mail, and then [the Congressman]

by Safi Hamilton-Torres

While some may view chronic illness as an end to their careers, Scarlett Ivie views her condition as a key to gaining crucial insight to her field of choice as she pursues a future in medicine. Despite living with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, she never lets her diagnosis define her. She is actively involved with tech crew for theater, is taking seven classes, is a part of the Biomedical pathway and she’s seeking out medical internships. Now, she prepares to take a gap year to undergo surgery and gain experience in the medical field, while taking the time she needs to heal and recover.

Ivie’s condition, Ehler-Danlos Syndrome, is a genetic disorder where the body’s connective tissues directly impact the function of the skin, blood vessels and organs. Due to this, Ivie has been in pain for the last 10 years, but has learned how to change her outlook on life to help cope with her condition, while still maintaining an active life.

“You have to know that you're gonna get through it, even at some points, it feels pretty dire [...] just keep chugging along and know it will inevitably get better. Don't let it prevent you from living your life and following through with your future plans,”

reached out for an interview in front of a West Point retiree and a naval academy alumni. I heard back a couple weeks later, and I got nominated for the West Point and Air Force Academy,” Nguyen said.

According to Nguyen, attending the Air Force Academy will be a continuation of a hobby he loves and wants to continue to pursue.

“Just the freedom of it- when you look down the runway there’s nothing in front of you. You take off in the air and then you fly. It’s almost like driving, but you can go anywhere you want. There’s nothing stopping you. You feel so much in control of the plane. It’s almost breathtaking and the views are incredible,” Nguyen said.

the friends he has made on the team.

Not only has Nguyen excelled in flying, but he has contributed immensely in cross-country, as well, being the go-to for freshman on the team. According to Nguyen, he started to enjoy running because of

“My sophomore year, I was running, and I wasn’t doing very well, but I saw one of my friends struggling, and I decided to try to help him out, and not run for me, but for him. I caught up to him, and we were running, and I was like, ‘Dude, come on let’s go,’ because he was falling back,” Nguyen said. “I got him, and we started to pick off people because we were kind of in the back, and as we were running, we started catching up with other teammates and eventually there’s a whole group of us, and we were all running together.”

Nguyen’s connection with other runners on the team, especially the younger ones, inspired him to be freshman ambassador. Freshman Caden McCabe can attest to the role model that Nguyen has been for him, since Nguyen helped him over the summer to make the cross-country team.

“I’m not that good of a runner, and I was trying to join cross-country. Everyone else who was a freshman was doing so much better than me, and they were always

ahead of me in the runs. One day at the start of summer I was very far behind, and [Nguyen] came up to me and said, ‘Hey, can I run with you?’ and I actually completed the whole run with him, and he helped me from there,” McCabe said.

When McCabe eventually made the team, Nguyen was the first person he called.

“Everyone got emails of who made the team and who didn’t. When I found out I made the team, I immediately called him, and we were both really excited, and we talked for another hour about it,” McCabe said. “I did not expect to make the team, but he really helped me, so I was excited to celebrate with him.”

Overall, Nguyen's relationship with the younger runners is an enjoyable responsibility that he is glad to have.

“I talk with the younger guys more than the other seniors. I’m pretty close to a lot of them. They know me, and I’m there for them, and I hope they know that if they need someone to talk to, then I’m there,” Nguyen said. “After meets or after practice I’ll give them a ride home. I’ll help them with their training if I can, or run with them on long runs if they need someone to talk to them. It’s not so much of a job to me. It's just being a friend.”

Ivie said.

Staying focused on her passions of theater and science, Ivie shares her experience being on theater tech staff during her seventh period, and how she first initially found out about tech work behind theater productions in middle school.

“I first discovered I loved theater all the way back in middle school. This year I was the head of lighting for the play, ‘The Play that Goes Wrong,'" Ivie said.

“It was a two person crew, just my friend and I. This had to be my favorite role so far, and it was a great learning experience.”

due to fainting.

“Luckily, there’s a lot of accommodations they provide for me in the theater. Everyone who I've worked with, all of the students and teachers, have been super nice and very helpful,” Ivie said.

Still facing health challenges during performances, Ivie says that the other theater staff are very “attentive" and “supportive" to her needs, once even needing to stay home during a play

JOAQUIN FISZMAN

Ivie's condition has motivated her to become a medical student and pursue a career in the medical field. Ivie has her eyes on the practice of pathology and orthopedic surgery, inspired by her surgeon that she's known for over 10 years, who has provided her direct access to insight into the medical field.

“My condition has actually given me a lot of opportunities in the medical field. During my gap year, I'm going to be shadowing my surgeon and working with him during this summer,” Ivie said.

A close friend of Ivie’s, senior Isla Mundell, who she’s known since elementary school, has seen Ivie “grow” and “adapt” to managing her condition alongside her busy schedule. Mundell describes Ivie as “extremely resilient” as she is “always being active,” taking an abundance of challenging courses on top of the additional extracurriculars of Science Olympiad, Associated Student Body and the Biomedical Science pathway.

Mundell has a deep admiration for her long time friend Ivie. She supports Ivie taking a gap year because it’s an opportunity for her to take a break from everything and “get the rest that she deserves and needs.”

"She is such a kind person who always has a positive attitude about everything. Even though she’s in so much pain [...], she still makes the effort to call me almost every day to just say hi or to talk about the things I was interested in,” Mundell said. “She suffers from debilitating pain, but she still comes to school, and she puts on a good face. If I was in her position, I would probably not be nearly as successful as she is. She has such a good attitude about everything. She really impresses me."

ORIANA CHOVIT

Matheus Nguyen in flight. PHOTO COURTESY OF MATHEUS NGUYEN

PHOTO

Scarlett Ivie experimenting with lab equiqment.

PHOTO COURTESY OF SCARLETT IVIE

Lessons in discipline

Minkyung Jo serves as the Company Commanding Officer in ROTC

by Blaze Braff

Minkyung Jo spent her early childhood in South Korea. In the second grade, she moved to the United States with her twin brother and their mom in pursuit of a higher English-language education. Here in America, Jo took advantage of programs like the Marine Corps Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (MCJROTC), where she developed leadership skills, established responsibilities in the community and learned how to work with others despite differences in opinions or life experiences. Now that Jo and her brother are graduating, they have arranged plans to move back to South Korea to enhance their occupational opportunities, get to know their family better and coordinate their futures.

“I'll be applying to colleges there this fall, majoring in political science and hopefully pursuing a career as a diplomat one day," Jo said.

Jo's motivation and desire to return to Korea stems from multiple sources.

“I want to go back to meet my family. Also, as a Korean citizen, I'd have lots more opportunities there, which increase my chances of becoming a diplomat. One day, I hope to come back to America or travel globally and help with Korean foreign relations. My biggest goal is to foster

relationships with other countries and ensure smoother communications and transactions. I want to change false or negative perceptions of one another and do my part in bringing peace to this world. I want to help people, those in need and bring positivity,” Jo said.

With high aspirations for her future, Jo also balances living in the moment and appreciating what she has established here in America.

“Knowing that I'm leaving soon, I've been trying to spend as much time as I can with these amazing groups of people I have here. They've helped my brother and I a lot throughout the years, adapting to school and life in the United States. Without them, I don't think I would have been nearly as successful,” Jo said.

Jo is the Company Commanding Officer (CCO) of MCJROTC, the highest position in the program. Her role has influenced her decision about her future career.

“ROTC is something that's not offered in South Korea, and I feel like this is a very unique opportunity that American high schoolers have, and it helps you learn how to be a leader. Not only how to be a leader, but how to be a follower, how to work effectively in a team setting, how to act professionally and how to interact with people

and improve situations,” Jo said.

Looking deeper at Jo’s journey, her twin brother, Hanjin Jo, who has been right next to her through everything, offers some background on her hard work and commitment that she's poured into MCJROTC.

“Minkyung was a color guard manager, so she was one of the four members carrying the flag. She later won the Golden Bear, which is a state competition, and that's a pretty big deal. This year, she became CCO, which is a very competitive position to get, so I'm just super proud of her for getting that spot,” Hanjin Jo said.

Beyond the titles and recognition, Hanjin Jo attributes his sister’s success to consistent efforts and character disposition.

“Minkyung is an outstanding com-

mander in MCJROTC. She's super brave and always works very hard, ensuring others are cared for in the program. I think her efficiency at work and love for the program had a big part in her becoming CCO. Also, outside of the class, she's often spending free time working to make sure all assigned tasks are completed. From what I've seen, she seems like a great leader,” Hanjin Jo said. He believes those same qualities will carry her far beyond the high school ROTC program.

“I think her becoming a diplomat suits her very well. She is passionate about making our world a better place,” Hanjin Jo said. “I see her becoming a significant world figure one day. She may look straight-faced or cold, but inside she's super sweet and very caring.”

Kensington Bunnell achieved the ROTC position of second-in-command after transfering to RUHS in the middle of her sophomore year

by Francisco Villegas

Nothing comes free, especially in the Marine Corps Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (MCJROTC) program. True to its military ideals, the program demands time and dedication from those looking to move up the ranks. Kensington Bunnell, who only arrived at Redondo part way through her sophomore year, was already at a disadvantage because of this.

Despite these challenges, Bunnell still went through the arduous process of moving up the ranks to reach her current position of second-in-command.

“Starting from the bottom that late meant that I had a lot of catching up to do, but they're not just gonna give promotions to me simply because I joined late. I was really able to rank up quicker within a shorter span of time because I was putting in extra effort. For example, I was doing the extra practices after school that they offer. That effort helped me get noticed by the at-thetime higher ups and I got meritoriously promoted, so like a double promotion, multiple times to get to where I’m at now,” Bunnell said. The drive that al-

lowed her to commit to the program so completely originates from the fact that her dad is in the military. According to Bunnell, this influence played a large part in her military ambitions, and by moving up the ranks of just the MCJROTC program, Bunnell has begun to set herself up for that to be part of her future.

“It has been incredibly impactful for my development. I would not be the same person that I am now if I hadn’t joined MCJROTC. I honestly wouldn't even be confidently speaking like this or be able to have this kind of conversation. I've noticed that I feel much more comfortable just taking command of situations so if there's ever just any situation I feel comfortable and confident to just step up and to direct people like in an emergency and even just in situations we have within MCJROTC. I feel like it just made me completely into the leader that I am today,” Bunnell said. After becoming one of the core leaders of the program, Bunnell’s responsibilities are still extensive as she is expected to manage two separate sections of the program. She manages both the Platoon

Commanders, which are teach ers of four different class periods of students, and six different section of ficers. Hoang Nguyen, one of the program’s adult leaders, trusts Bunnell with these heavy responsibilities because of her leader ship skills.

“Most other cadets take a while to step out of their shell to lead people, but she was able to, within a very short time, get the students in the class to do what they need to do and sometimes to do what they don't want to do. Her platoon is very organized, and they are well-behaved, disciplined, fit and overall they’re good products of the program. All of that reflects on her leadership of that platoon and shows that 'Hey, this person knows what she's talking about.' She's ahead of her peers and that allowed her to reach this position,” Nguyen said.

the way that I was and went straight to college, It would just be more studying and stress on top of everything that I've done the past four years so I kind of decided to take a bit of a break. Even still, I'm going to be studying Japanese, and I want to continue volunteer work over there and get a job and whatnot,” Bunnell said.

Choosing Japan for her gap year came after a lot of research on Bunnell’s behalf. Japan stood out as the final choice to her because of safety and the fact that she had been exposed to the culture when she was growing up because her stepdad lived in Japan for a time and spoke Japanese. She is committed to learning the language and is even enrolling in a school to get personal lessons. After her time in Japan, she has a few more plans, as well.

With all of the responsibility she has carried during her time at Redondo, Bunnell plans to take a gap year in Japan.

“My mom led me to the idea. We travel often, and she mentioned that in Europe it's more common to do gap years and gap semesters. Also, I was really worried about burnout. I felt like, if I continued

“I’m not set on a final career right now, but after Japan,” Bunnell said. “I’m going to college, and I want to do MCJROTC through college, and then after college, I want to join as an officer and build a career through the military before I eventually get out and find a career for the long term.”

PHOTO BY TREASURED MOMENTS

PHOTO BY TREASURED MOMENTS

ROTC carries out a Presentation of Colors

PHOTO BY MINKYUNG JO

Kensington Bunnell holds up ROTC banner PHOTO BY KENJI LIM 1. ROTC members pose together PHOTO BY KENJI LIM

Double Double Identity

Jacob Schalck reveals himself as RUHS' mascot, Sammy the Sea Hawk

by Bella Engleman

Jacob Schalck wears a lot of hats. One of them being the all familiar face of Sammy the Sea Hawk, our school mascot, a very well kept secret. But being the school’s mascot is only a small part of the activities Shalck has taken part in; he has participated in the school’s lacrosse team, Marine Corps Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps, marching band, jazz band, and Associative Student Body (ASB), including being a Head Hawk, as well.

“It’s been a lot, and I’m passionate about every single [activity]. Everyone has told me that I couldn’t do as much as I have, and I proved them wrong over the years,” Schalck said.

In order to juggle everything, Schalck has had to switch his schedule around to make sure he can attend as many of his games, tournaments, practices and

competitions as he can, along with school events as Sammy.

“I’d say my greatest achievement is being able to balance so much on my plate,” Schalck said. “I’ve been able to keep up amazing grades, I’ve done seven APs in high school and I’ve still managed to do all the extracurriculars I’ve done. I loved everyone and every moment of it.”

Schalck also had to keep his identity as Sammy low profile, keeping up with Redondo tradition.

“At the beginning of the year, the other Head Hawks didn't know I was Sammy Sea Hawk. It was originally going to be a secret from ASB [too], but it’s really hard to keep that secret when I’m supposed to be somewhere but I’m not able to be there because I’m Sammy Sea Hawk,” Schalck said.

by Kate Brucia

When Giya Kiran opens her closet doors, she is met by seven ASB shirts and sweatshirts, swim team jackets, a salsa jacket and more relics of her high school commitments. Throughout the past four years, Kiran has been in ASB, on the Salsa Club cabinet, the Vice President of AP Environmental Science Tutoring Club, on the swim team, a private tutor and a member of the RBUSD Local Control Accountability Plan (LCAP) Advisory Committee. Despite the challenges that came with juggling so many pursuits, Kiran wouldn’t do anything differently.

“One of the most important things for me is to look back at my experience in high school and not regret anything because I would not be the person I am today without those experiences. I would not be who I am today without ASB, without swimming or without the LCAP committee," Kiran said. "The reason that I am confident in who I am and the reason that I am ambitious and hard working is that I've done all these activities that have thrown me into the chaos of being in leadership and I've had to adapt and learn how to be a better leader."

Most of Kiran’s commitments are focused on this leadership development. For example, she was the first ever student member of the LCAP Advisory Committee,

ASB activities director, Lisa Hedspeth, remarks how enthusiastic and ready Schalck is to put the mascot suit on, which she was able to see from the start at his audition.

“He tried out two years ago, and he was very authentic. Once he first put the suit on at a Friday night lights foot-

a three-year plan that determines funds to meet different goals and address student needs.

“One of the most important things to me that I've always believed in is the power of student voices. We should be given a voice and listened to more because we have good ideas, and our opinion matters a lot, especially when it comes to the health and the community that can be built on campus,” Kiran said. “The reason I wanted to join [LCAP] was because [...] I wanted to be a representative for our school, and being in ASB, it's our duty to make sure that students are heard, that admin hears us and that our campus can be better off by listening to its students.”

Having been a member since sixth grade, Kiran sees being in ASB as having the “biggest impact” on her life.

“ASB is such a massive commitment: you're doing so much all the time, there's never a break, it takes up a lot of time and effort and so much of my life revolves around it. When I leave high school, that's going to be the biggest thing that I [won’t] have in my life anymore,” Kiran said. “I love how close-knit we are and how hard-working everyone in the class is. That’s such a special community that you don't get very many places.”

Just down the hall from the ASB room

ball game, we knew we found Sammy Sea Hawk,” Hedspeth said. “I don’t know who’s going to take his place, they’re going to have big shoes—big claws—to fill.”

For Schalck, being Sammy Sea Hawk is much more than just a responsibility or job, it is an opportunity for him to make a difference and get out of his comfort zone. Schalck believes that people behind the scenes matter just as much as those in the spotlight.

“School spirit goes far beyond rallies. It’s about unity, and bringing people together. How many people get to say they were the mascot? It’s the only job where I could be completely anonymous, dance terribly and still hype up a crowd of a thousand people,” Schalck said. “No one expected me to be the one inside the suit, that was the best part. I got to break stereotypes, surprise people and show that leadership doesn’t always wear a uniform. Sometimes, it wears wings.”

Hedspeth notes how honored she is to have worked with Schalck in ASB and as Sammy for the past two years.

“He multitasks with such class, and

is The Nest, where Kiran spent a lot of time with her mentor and college counselor, Katie Menschner, who she describes as her “good friend.”

“She knows who she is, and she goes after what she wants. She's just really an accomplished student and overall person; there's nothing shy or meek about her and that will serve her well in life. I think that's a really great asset of hers,” Menschner said.

In the fall, Kiran will be studying Human Biology at University of California San Diego. As a first-generation American, she will be the first in her family to attend college.

Reflecting on how she has changed since beginning high school, Kiran notes how the challenges she faced have enabled self-discovery.

“Out of my entire high school experi-

makes everything look easy when it's not. He’s a servant leader, he serves without asking; he doesn’t want anything in return,” Hedspeth said. “I’m going to miss him; the school’s going to miss him.”

Schalck’s parting advice to Redondo students is to pursue everything that they are passionate about and be adventurous when it comes to trying new things.

“If you really want to do something, and you have other things that you think might conflict, just try it out,” Schalck said. “Make sure you exhaust every option you have because you have four years, make the most of it.”

1. Schalck surrounded by his fellow ASB members.

2.

ence, the thing I am most proud of is the fact that I am far less lost than I was when I got here. I know that I am a kind person; I know that I'm a hard-working person; I know that I have supportive people around me and that I have worked hard to keep it that way. I'm proud of the fact that I was able to grow as a person,” Kiran said. “It's a lot of hard work that goes into finding yourself, and so it’s my biggest accomplishment.”

Schalck as Sammy energizing the Flock at a football game.

PHOTO COURTESY OF JACOB SCHALCK

From left to right: Jadyn Simmons, Chloe Caywood, Natalie Clapp, Giya Kiran and Yara El-Hasan at a school rally.

PHOTO

GIYA KIRAN

A FUTURE HISTORIAN'S FIGHT

Skylar Harris' love for history and education motivates her to excel in AP classes and foster a love for history in her peers

by Allison Sutton

Skylar Harris stood in the Computer History Museum in Silicon Valley, eyes skimming the display cases full of almost a century's worth of technology. She and her fellow classmates were visiting the museum as part of the curriculum for a Stanford University course Harris took over the summer, Feminism and Technology, in which she learned about the essential role women played in creating the first computer. Shockingly, as Harris would discover, the museum failed to mention these women’s names entirely.

“[We] learned about the first computer and [about how] women pretty much made it. And then we went to the museum, and there was not a single mention of women,” Harris said. “We read in some articles that for a few of the women, their husbands got all the credit, and, on the [museum model], it says it was created by their husbands, not them.”

“I love to look at stuff that's missing in history,” Harris said. “It's really interesting how [there are] certain parts of history people like to suppress.”

Harris’ love for history enabled her to succeed in both the AP European and United States History classes. After receiving a five on the AP United States History (APUSH) exam, she was inspired to create an APUSH tutoring club on campus, the Liberty Learners, to help others.

Through the two Stanford classes she took over the summer of 2024, including the one aforementioned, Harris developed more nuanced analytical abilities relative to both history and sociology. The above incident particularly inspired her to focus more on the historical experiences of underrepresented groups.

“A lot of what me and my co-president do [for the club] is make slides

based on a huge review book,” Harris said. “Liberty Learners is all about how we can prepare the students for the AP test, but also how we can prepare them for next year and beyond.”

Helping other students succeed feels like a personal victory for Harris, and she

enjoys teaching others about the history she is so passionate about.

“The most rewarding thing is being able to see the kids get better,” Harris said.

Grace Dillon, Harris’ co-president and close friend of four years works alongside Harris to tutor students. She has formed a close bond with Harris as they worked together to lead the club.

“Skylar has a strong work ethic, as she has a strong dedication to her academic performance while being involved in demanding extracurriculars. She always has a positive personality,” Dillon said.

perience from watching Keller teach in class.

“The main thing I have learned from Mrs. Keller’s teaching is that it's not always about content. It's also about relating things to yourself and the real world,” Harris said. “It’s really interesting to see how she weaves her personal life into the history.”

Not only is Harris a founder of the APUSH tutoring club, but she is also a teacher's assistant in Amber Keller’s sixth-period APUSH class. As a teacher’s assistant, she is able to be a mentor to even more APUSH students and helps to create more productive class periods.

“It’s so interesting seeing these kids who knew nothing [about history] become ready to take the AP test. I hope I’ve done something well for them,” Harris said.

After high school, Harris plans to major in history at the University of Washington. After college, she is considering becoming a history teacher and has already gained valuable knowledge and second-hand ex-

Harris’ appreciation for the past has inspired her to become very involved in the RUHS history department, and her love for history stems from her love for reading. Just as she aims to make tutoring more available to RUHS students, she also seeks to make books more accessible to her community. Through her volunteer organization, Sandpiper Juniors, Harris constructs small, “take a book, leave a book” libraries for her neighborhood.

“I love to make sure everyone has the ability to read books that can expand their knowledge and passion for things, because that's how I found history,” Harris said. “It’s all about improving the world we live in."

Paul Carson's engineering and conservation interests shine through during his time as an Eagle Scout and during an internship

From hiking on an idyllic mountain, to calculating a company’s air pollution output, Paul Carson strives to help the environment around him, as he is soon to be studying Chemical Engineering with a minor in Environmental Engineering at University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). Born to a dynamic duo of engineers who both attended University of California, Berkely (UCB), Carson’s interest in engineering continued to grow, as he did, through various activities during his high school experience.

While backpacking, hiking, camping and doing conservation volunteering, Carson’s love for nature grew, leading him to become an Eagle Scout. Carson’s mom, Ada Carson, agrees, saying, “[Scouts] is a huge part of who Paul is.” Carson also explains how after “seeing all the beautiful landscapes” during his time in Scouts, he’s become a “passionate” conservationist, giving him a reason for wanting to protect the environment.

“Scouting has given me words to live by [which] has helped shape my perspective on environmental protection, and built me up in my environmental stewardship. Even though these oaths and laws are just words, when you practice and implement

them into every choice, they help to guide you on the right path,” Carson said. "These lessons and values that I've learned, I will hold for the rest of my life. I'm thankful to have been a part of scouting because of how much I've grown through it.”

Carson earned his forestry badge

while backpacking through the San Gabriel Mountains right before the forests burned down. Seeing them be destroyed by things like climate change and irresponsible forest management was “heartbreaking” for Carson, leading him and other scouts to help restore trails, which Carson described to be a “rewarding” experience, additionally thanking Scouts for giving him “insightful” leadership experience.

“[Scouting] offers so many opportunities for young kids. Practicing communication and public speaking are important skills I've developed through scouting, and without them, I would be less prepared to go into the workforce and the real world,” Carson said.

With the help of his mom, Carson landed a summer internship at Davenport Engineering. Carson admits that he initially felt “inexperienced,” but by constantly asking questions, he realized that by getting involved in this new environment, “was the best way to finally create and join [this] community and a sense of belonging.”

by Kayli Mai

While watching her son give a presentation, Carson's mom, Ada Carson, praised how “well spoken, knowledgeable and confident he was, with a natural presentation and leadership capability.” While reflecting on all his years during his time at RUHS, Carson explains how the activities were “like a continuous line that built on top of his experiences from past years.” His passions for these activities eventually helped him to realize what he really values, and what he plans to pursue post graduation. Ultimately, he offers advice for any incoming freshmen and current Sea Hawks.

“Do as much as you can outside the classroom, within academics, to build on your specific passion. Foster it, because if it's something you love, you'll never regret doing more of it,” Carson said. “Through participating in those challenges, or being together nonetheless, you find the people that will support you, that care about you. Involvement helped me find my community.”

KAELYN ABRAHAM

PHOTO BY TREASURED

PHOTO

Skylar Harris poses for a photo while recreating the Boston Tea Party after winning a Halloween Trunk or Treat event PHOTO COURTESY OF SKYLAR HARRIS

Paul Carson's Eagle Scout Portait, displaying his badges and awards PHOTO COURTESY OF PAUL CARSON

Skylar Harris at a summer intership at Stanford University PHOTO COURTESY OF SKYLAR HARRIS

UCLA LOGO IMAGE VIA FREEPIK

KICKING into COLLEGE

As the college applications are set and acceptance season cools down, twin siblings Kyler and Cami Douglas are preparing to head into different directions to chase their dreams.

With Cami bound for University of South ern California (USC) and Kyler heading to University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), both driven by their own pas sions, they will be on rival campuses with some competition ahead.

“I think it's awesome that our [respective] schools are rivals, I don't know what she thinks about the ri valry of it all, but it'll be really exciting, and I'm happy for her,” Kyler Douglas said.

For Kyler and Cami Douglas, attending rival schools is less of a contest and more about celebrating their unique paths and their shared con nection to both campuses.

“It's so fun to have my brother go to my rival school. I'm excited because we're gonna be close but still have our own lives. I grew up in a UCLA family, but my grand pa went to USC, so we [already had] both schools in our life,” Cami Douglas said.

While Cami sees their split

by Kayli Mai and Blaze Baff

Mand dance have intertwined in her high school experience, combining to make her who she is today.

"My favorite part of high school has been being involved and getting to meet so many different people. When I don't feel motivat ed to go to some activity, I think about the people there and how they make the ex perience enjoyable. That [has helped] prepare me for college and a career, by having so much to do at all times and learning what to prioritize to be most efficient,” Bimbli said.

The hip-hop dance club largely in fluenced Bimbli's experience of gaining comfort at school. These experiences al lowed her to formulate good pieces of ad vice for younger peers who may be going through similar things.

“From the get-go, if you think some thing is out of your comfort zone, do it anyway. You have nothing to lose, even if you feel like you do; you don't, es pecially as you're starting,” said bli. “Get

paths as a chance to explore and experience both sides of a family legacy, Kyler's deciwas shaped by his grandpa

“My grandpa had a big part in my interest in aerospace engineering, him and my dad were always into space and science fiction. My grandpa gave me a lot of old science fiction books when I was little,” Kyler Doug las said. “I've always been good at STEM, and math is my strong suit, so aerospace engineer ing tied my interests to

Kyler’s path through college was passed down through generations. Cami’s was inspired by first hand cultural expe riences abroad during her recent involvement in the

“I did an exchange pro gram where I hosted a girl from France. She came to

Twin siblings Cami and Kyler Douglas

plan on attending rival schools, pursuing their respective career paths

by Khloee Tange

stay with me for a few weeks, then I spent some time with her in France. That really was a big moment for me in engaging in other cultures, and I was able to understand the world in a larger context,” Cami Douglas said.

Cami’s inspiration from this exchange program has influenced her to explore international and cultural affairs while keeping her options open by trying out different fields along the way.

“The global studies program at USC combines a lot of history and culture but

me about commitment. I’ve done club soccer since I was five [and] it's taught me to stick with things,” Cami Douglas said. “There were challenges I faced in club soccer as I went to higher levels [which] taught me how to not give up and work through challenges better.”

While Cami was drawn to USC for its programs for global studies and a chance to explore a range of interests, Kyler's path to UCLA was less expected but completely shifted his views.

don Bimbli appreciates his sister’s help,

“

as she’s helped him numerous times, especially during freshman year, where she aided him with pick his classes and navigating around RUHS’ massive campus. “It would be really hard to imagine what my year would be like without her to guide me,” said Brandon Bimbali.

Growing up, Brandon Bimbli, acknowledges his sister’s affinity to math, apparent even when she was a middle schooler. From his perspective, his sister has always found math to “come to her very naturally”.

“Even from the 6th grade, I remember how she’d be doing her homework and complain about how easy it was. I would try to help her, but obviously as an elementary student I couldn’t. It always was and has been admirable how easy math was to her,” said Brandon Bimbli.

Since Bimbli is “stronger” in STEM-re-

“I wasn't considering applying to any UCs. I was looking for out of state, but my mom convinced me to apply. I wasn't expecting to get in, but when I got accepted, I visited the school. That feeling once I stepped into the school was crazy. Seeing the campus fully changed my mind,” Kyler

lated subjects, she plans to major in statistics with a concentration in actuarial science, to get a career as an actuary. Due to the math-heavy nature of the career, Bimbli feels she will be in "her element” Going off to SDSU for the business program, Bimbli is looking forward to different aspects of her plans for the future, along with a fresh new environment.

“Next year I'm excited to meet a bunch of new people and have a new community to explore myself in. I'm very excited to be in that crowd and have a lot of opportunities, meet a lot of people because SDSU is very diverse," Bimbli explains. “I'm also very excited to study, get my degree and hopefully build a good career for myself.”

TYLER HIGUCHI

PHOTO BY TREASURED MOMENTS

1: Cami Douglas posing with a soccer ball 2: Cami and Kyler Douglas' senior portraits

California Polytechnic UniversitySan Luis Obispo

Drew Blair

Shane Friedman

Charlotte Goldstein

Marissa Gullickson

Owen Howard

Jerry Li

Petra Napier

Nasser Rafeedie

Jenna Shahid

California Polytechnic UniversityPomona

Jinho Choi

Sandy Chui

Christopher Gee

Lucas Gonzalez

Kristopher Jaramillo

Micah Kang

California State Polytechnic University-Humboldt

Marlie Cornwell

Brittany Fay

Danika Harper

Jayce Kelley

Julian Witham

California State University-Chico

Arianna Boughton

Natalie Griffin

Sofia Perez

Luciana Ramirez

California State UniversityDominguez Hills

Anthony Alexander

Samuel Angulo

Jacob Lipeles

Na'im Jenkins

Demetrios Zervoudakis

California State University-Fresno

Ernez Crayton

California State University-Fullerton

Angel Aceves

Joseph Choi

Isaac Madatyan

Anthony Pina

Haley Poore

Sophia Quan

Joshua Shahid

Sarah Suh

Suriyana Sukha

Ethan To

Vincent Varela

Jalene White-Short

California State University-Monterey

Bay

Phoenix Montes de Oca

California State UniversityLos Angeles

Elijah Lewis

California State University

Maritime Academy

Scott Griffin

Nicholas Reyna

California State University-Northridge

Roman Atenza

Adam Divinity

California State University-San Marcos

Boone Essmiller

Luke Fisher

Rylan Gracie

Gabriel Works

Cerritos College

Angel Sanchez

Sophia Sanchez

Elizabeth Tierney

Chapman University

Anthony Leone

Irvine Valley College

Nathalia Woods

Long Beach City College

Daniel Arredondo

Tai Baerga

Audrey Bonelli

Priscilla Encinas

Los Angeles Harbor College

Ashley Lombardo

Jared Nall

Los Angeles Film School

Noah Enoch

Louisiana State University

London Brown

Cyrus Gordon

Loyola Marymount University

Ariya Anvari

Anh Dao

Noe Fung

Sophia Lonergan

Sophia Lupia

San Diego State University

Carly Arthur

Sofia Atoofi

San Francisco State University

William McSorley

Marcelo Zerpa

San Jose State University

Ria Chougule

Declan Goldstein

Nicole Kouno

Landon Silsby

Santa Barbara City College

Ean Beck

Dominic Bonafede

Devon Russell

Lillian Sarcona

Morgan Toth

Santa Monica College

Maxine Allen

Blake Arnold

Frida Elzey

Brandon Huang

Malia Kirkland

Brandon Lee

Chaise Marzett

Victoria Vasquez

Scripps College

Miranda Steinberg

University of California-Los Angeles

Kona Broughton

Paul Carson

Christian Chae

Kyler Douglas

Coco Funakoshi

Tyler Higuchi

Ezequiel Johnson

Sarina Krothapalli

Amelia Leto

Jessie Lewis

Nicholas London

Tristan Lu

Yijun Son

Paula Valenzuela

Avery Rapoport

University of California-Merced

Santa Clara University

Diego Valenzuela

University of California-Riverside

Mahek Ahir

Ayah Alloush

Carter Burns

Hailey Gavin-Wences

Derek Huang

Stanford University

Jamie Dienes

The Master's University

Brayden Miner

University of California-Berkeley

Tyler Anderson

Allison Cha

Lauren Choy

Cristina Couch

Elle Cowan

Eric Escalante-Henricks Benjamin

Forsell

Otto Hoffman

Taylor Kakuk

Armand Khchirian

MadisonKurihara

Kiera Miller

Kerem Ozkan

Amina Raiss

Anish Raman

Ranel Ramac

University

Yujin Ko

Alexander Kuzmenko

Evan Morgan

Ryan Son

Takuma Tsubokawa

Christopher Wong

Matthew Woo

University of California-Santa Barbara

Kaisa Allen

Amanda Baptista

Jonathan Creado

Artus Daudin

Addison Hoang

Jordan Jacobson

Kristine Laine

Michelle Light

Alise Rivera

Sadie Simmons

Rayn Waltman

Reese Wroblewski

Elli Baluyut

Megan Bimbli

James Brocoum

Mia Canosa-Carr

California State UniversityLong Beach

Ella Aasness

Ayla Marcus

Anna Majarov

Ella McRae

Aleah Sapien

Collin Sanchez-Kelley

Braden Abel

Harsh Ahir

Meena Aqmal

Xeleste Armijo

Alexander Assayag

Asadbek Bakhodirov

Kathleen Balaban

Isaac Barajas

Olivia Barker

Dane Barnard

Olive Bello

Hunter Bennett

Rowan Bernberg

Matteo Blangy

Isabella Boch

Isabella Bran

Paxton Brann

Mariana Briceno Esber

Gabriel Brook

Lillianna Bruynell-Perez

Addison Bryan

Nathan Bubenicek

Danniell Kayleb Bueno

Melanie Bui

John Bulson

Aidan Camou

Gia Chaffins

Jake Chapman

Christopher Choi

Anthony Cisneros

Baron Colee

Indiana Connoy

Zoey Copp

Samantha Cos

Sierra Cosgrove

Matteo Costantino

Doralis Croft

Jason Dahl

Mitchel Daly

Tyler Davidson

Kieran Davidson

Ethan Jacob Ebuen

Isabella Forbes

Erin Hartman

Isabella Jones

Kaitlynn McMullin

Jack Perrotta

Ashley Peterson

Hunter Taylor

Ethan Tiffany

Fiona Grossman

Aiden Klugman

Kaden McGoldrick

University

Kaelyn Abraham

Clark Good

Alexandra Krug

Yixiong Liu

Karishma Pandya

Dylan Vo

Anthony

Isabelle De Queiroz

Esrone Debessay

Bryce Dix

Lila Dodd

Olivia Drake

Breanna Duran

Alicia Eapen

Raymond Echevarria

Alex Edwards

Blessing Emmanuel

Nathan Escobar

Alexander Evangelatos

Ramon Canek

Aleni Carbajal

Breanna Carrillo

Destiny Castellanos

Anne Marie Cervantes

Zachary Ferkula

Luca Ferrara

Andrew Fisher

Nicholas Fisher

Emma Flack

Fabiana Franco

Luke Friedman

Isabella Galarza

Sebastian GarciaCommer

Noah Gordon-Conley

Oliver Gossling

Jacob Gray

Amelee Grijalva

Lena Gross

Daniel Guerrero

Nataly Guirguis

Sinda Guzman Arenas

Dakota Hamilton

Gavin Hancock

Owen Hancock

Tatum Henderson

Ethan Herrera

Devin Higgins

Samantha High

Nicolas Ho

Katisha Holanii

London Hom

James Huh

Nazareth Iosia

Matthew Jacob

Dylan Jamrog

Evan Johnson

Isaiah Johnson

Nicholas Jones

Hassane Joudi

Lukas Juarez

Adam Kaemerle

Dane Kennedy

Daniya Khan

Leila King

Leila King

Jake Kislinger

Yaya Kitagawa

Hailey Kobashigawa

Owen Kolb

Sofiya Kotoyants

Julia Kravchak

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Painting the State

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DRAWN

TO NEW PLACES

Standing on business

Stavyah Naveen attends USC to pursue business

by Deeksha Prasad

Singing on stage at age 13 in front of nearly 200 people, including her parents and grandparents, Stavyah Naveen wasn’t expecting to be interrupted mid-song.

“When she started singing, there was pin drop silence, because she’s such a good singer,” said Naveen Vijay, Naveen’s father. “[Everyone in the audience] was intently listening to her. And suddenly, her teacher goes ‘Stop! Stop! Stop!’ She made a point to [correct a mistake Naveen had made] in front of these 200 people, when she was already halfway through the song.”

At that moment, Naveen “felt scared.” But that wasn’t enough to deter her, and with a smile on her face, she continued to sing.

“[That moment] was very representative of who I am as a person,” Naveen said.

self and remain calm in stressful situations. It’s something I’ve really had to pull into all aspects of my life. It taught me a lot about [perseverance].”

Since then, Naveen has been able to apply her strong composure within a host of different leadership roles, including acting as Editor in Chief of High Tide and being a delegate at California Boys & Girls State.

“She will always complete whatever task she’s doing, and do it well. There is no moment I’ve seen in the last 17 years where she’s walked out of something that was half-complete. She’ll fight through any potential challenges that she gets, and then she’ll come out stronger,” Vijay said.

Since she was a child, Naveen has always been “observant” of her parents’ work lives, with her father working as head of marketing analytics at Chipotle and her mother being the founder of AllyNd Partners. According to Vijay, Naveen would always pay close attention to both parents’ work calls.

by Leyla Evenson

Cristina Couch’s compassion and desire to put others before herself lead her to leave a lasting impact on her community. When she’s not at practice or a troop meeting, she’s studying for her rigorous classes. These activities contributed to her attending the University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley) in the fall for Applied Mathematics.

Couch has been in Girl Scouts since sixth grade and is a Girl Scout Gold Award candidate, an award given for success in community based projects. Her project proposal includes working with professionals and school officials to create a learning environment that benefits different learning styles that students may have.

“We made a survey for four different schools. We then would express it to teachers, and they didn't know that students felt this way about the practices, and didn't know that these things helped [neurodivergent students], or [some] things just didn't resonate with them. Like group projects, hand on activities, just different ways you can learn things,” Couch said.

Her project idea grew from her involvement in the UC/CSU Collaborative for Neuroscience, Diversity and Learning Student Ambassador Program, where she collaborated with other students to bring awareness to the school struggles neuro-

“Every time I hear [my dad] conversing, I learn a little bit more. You can never underestimate the value of shadowing someone, hearing their words and ingraining them in your head. That was what happened with finance and accounting for me,” Naveen said. “I was really exposed to it, so my interest was piqued. ” Naveen will be at-

divergent students may face. Couch’s motivation for participating in the program was her sister, who is dyslexic. Couch has “seen her struggle in school” and it's “frustrating” to see.

“I just know how incredible she is and some of her teachers just don't understand her so I did this to bring awareness, but also to help the students learn things that can help them in class. She got more done for herself when she advocated for herself. So my project's helping people do that,” Couch said.

tending the University of Southern California in the fall, majoring in finance and accounting as a Presidential and James G. Ellis scholar, as well as a participant in the Global Leadership Program. While her interest in business and finance started with her parents, as she’s gotten older, she’s participating in many programs targeted towards her interest, including the Georgetown Winter Finance Program, FTE Economics for Leaders and the HOBY Leadership Program. In her sophomore year, Naveen began listening to “The CPG Guys,” a podcast that focused on how brands and retailers cooperate to create a productive business atmosphere, and later began to write a newsletter for the podcast.

“The terminology that people were using in this podcast was so different for her. As a student, she didn’t know all of the jargon that was used in this particular industry. But I was blown away as to how quickly she would learn [the terms],” Vijay said. “She would research every bit of the conversation that was happening. Then she would sit with me [and ask questions], and I would say ‘wow, these are the conversations I’m having with people in my office.’”

In addition to her work in finance, Naveen is currently president of TTAG (Tech Trek Alumnae Group). The Tech Trek camp is a summer camp for seventh graders, who can then join the alumni affiliate organization in later years to continue contributing to the camp. According to

person to have in your life. She always makes sure to check in with people, and she's super, super smart, which is just so cool to be around somebody like that,” Rosario said.

Senior Brooklyn Rosario has known Couch for twelve years. They met because their little sisters were best friends and according to Rosario, after one play date “[they’ve] been friends ever since.”

“She’s a goofball, undercover. Better than that, she's such an amazing, kind person and she's always looking out for her friends, [making her] such an awesome

In addition to Girl Scouts and the Student Ambassador Program, Couch also volunteers in her spare time. She spends most of her volunteering hours at the library, where she started volunteering freshman year.

“I didn't realize how much time in my high school career I spent at the library until I walked across the hall of the library and waved to four different people who worked there. They know that I have this creative side to me, so they always like to task me with creative things,” Couch said. “They're just sweet people who care for the community.”

In order to earn a spot at UC Berkeley, Couch had to not only juggle multiple activities with schoolwork, but stay motivated to do so.

Naveen, TTAG focuses on “empowering” women in STEM.

“It’s a great organization, not only to have those female role models but to have a community of people who feel very similar to you, but also have different experiences and perspectives,” Naveen said.

Since joining TTAG in eighth grade, Naveen has served in a variety of different positions in the organization. From being part of the committee, to secretary, to head of membership, to vice president and eventually president, she’s experienced many angles of leadership in TTAG.

“I hope to run a company someday where I would need to know all aspects of business, and that includes finance, that includes marketing, that includes sales. My experience in TTAG, where I had to learn a lot of things in a lot of different departments, is going to apply to my future career,” Naveen said, “It can sometimes seem like my interests are really random. But for me, it was never random. Everything I do contributes to some facet of my personality. It creates who I am.”

“Somewhere within me, I have this drive. I don't know where it's from or why. My parents pushed me to some extent, but they also have their limits. I remember telling them what AP classes I was gonna take, and it wasn't expected that I do that to myself. Same thing with soccer, too. I kept getting injured, and they would be okay if I stopped. But I was the one who kept saying no, I want to play. It's just someone I've always been,” Couch said.

Rosario feels that Couch applies that mentality to her personal life as well, as a friend. According to Rosario, Couch is a really bubbly and kind person to everyone.

“My favorite aspect [of] her personality is her being a caring person and using her smarts to always help others like you ask her a question, she's gonna make sure she always gives you the right answer, and even dive deeper,” Rosario said.

In her four years of high school, Couch believes it's the people she’s met who have had the most impact on her and are part of her favorite memories.

“It changed my whole high school career, talking to people in the certain classes I get, these people that I’d talk to while we're doing a chemistry lab, or physics class,” Couch said. “It's all these people I've just met throughout the years, just because we're in this place. There's many tiny little moments, and I think that makes up life.”

1. Stavyah Naveen helps young students at TTAG.

Stavyah Naveen enjoying quality time with other Boys and Girls State members.

Cristina Couch playing soccer. PHOTO COURTESY OF CRISTINA COUCH

Her Roman Empire Scarlett Mische pursues her love for archaeology

by Claudia Turner

Craning her head to fully appreciate all 38 meters of the Roman landmark, Scarlett Mische felt tears forming as she finally came face to face with a piece of history she’d studied for years. Though not the typical reaction one might have when visiting Trajan's Column—an impressive 113 AD piece of Roman triumphal architecture—Mische wasn’t a typical tourist. She hadn’t come to Rome during the summer before her senior year to indulge in sunsets and Gelato; rather, it was pottery fragments and old grain dispensaries that captured her attention.

“Being somewhere that you've read countless books about is surreal. When we saw Trajan's column, I stayed there for like 40 minutes, just staring up until my neck cramped,” Mische said. “In Pompeii, I actually started sobbing when we visited the Villa dei Misteri [a preserved ancient Roman villa], because I was just so happy to finally see something [in person that] I had been obsessed with for forever.”

In addition to doing research in Pompeii and Rome in Italy, Mische interned in Spain with archaeologist Catalina Urquijo. While in Spain, Urquijo “acted as an important influence” for Mische and helped her develop an understanding on the various components of a career in archaeology.

“[Urquijo] taught me how to do archeological illustrations, it would be super late at night, and I would be sitting there drawing until I got every detail correct,” Mische

said. “There's not many things I can do for such a long time and not get bored of. But, interacting with our discoveries, [such as an ancient die and a Roman loom weight], was the most exciting thing in the world to me. I never got tired of that.”

Ancient history had always been a part of Mische’s life—as a child she religiously re-read Edith Hamilton's “Mythology.” But even when writing a biography on each Roman emperor for a freshman year research project, Mische believed that her passion could only ever be a hobby. That was until reading "ARCHAEOLOGY" by Christopher Catling changed her mind.

“I was going through my bookshelf, trying to find something to read to avoid studying for my chemistry final. I pulled out a book about archaeology, and was like, ‘woah. I forgot how much I love this,’” Mische said. “I had been so swamped that year that I hadn’t looked at my books in a while, and I forgot I even owned this particular one. But when I was reading it again, I realized that I really do love archeology, and that it’s what I want to do with my life.”

Another factor that pushed Mische to choose archaeology was her experience in Richard Barclay’s AP European History class. According to Mische, the class was taught “like a really long and complicated story,” and that brought back memories of her first love: reading. To supplement her homework, Mische bought additional textbooks, spent hours pouring over the material and even turned her entire bedroom

wall into a massive mind map. “[Mische] would bring in pho tos of her room, which had ev ery key concept, vocabulary term and every connection that could possibly be created mapped out. It looked like one of those crime scene investigations,” Barclay said. “Her dedication blew me away be cause that’s something you can’t teach. It's an innate ability, and [Mische’s] dedication was infec tious—she inspired her peers and myself with her passion for histo ry.”

Mische will be attending the University of Oxford in the fall, majoring in classical archeology and ancient history. After undergoing a multi-interview process where she was given readings to interpret and artifacts to ana lyze, all Mische had left to do was wait. The weeks before the decision came out were extremely stressful, and Mische had begun to doubt if she would be part of the 8.9% of US applicants that are accepted each year. However, thanks to her proficiency in the archaeological field, Mische was accepted into Oxford, pursuing a “dream” major she’s been interested in since childhood. Barclay wasn’t certain that Mische would continue on the classics path while she was his student, but as she continued to frequent his classroom, bringing life updates about her continued internships,

writings and readings, he became “positive” that her future lies in history.

“Studying ancient history at Oxford is such a unique story that we don't get to see on this campus very much. Her pursuit is only going to add to the story of what a Redondo student can do,” Barclay said. “Her way of working is so unique. My current students have picked up the [“Euro Wall”] method. She’s definitely made her mark on Redondo.”

1. 2. Column from a digging site in the ancient city of Segobriga, Spain. Mische digging up excess dirt before excavating the side walls of the Roman fortress. PHOTOS COURTESY OF SCARLETT MISCHE

Marley Van Pelt thrives in leadership positions while embracing her auditory disability

by Daniella Gross

MVP is what she is best known for, not only because the letters are her initials, but also because she is regarded as the most valuable player by many of her peers. Marley Van Pelt is involved in many activities on and off campus, though her most notable role this year was Editor-in-Chief (EIC) of the High Tide. Van Pelt joi ned the paper freshman year and has since worked her way up to the top.

“I got really into the features section of the paper right off the bat because I loved talking to people and interviewing. Features are something that I’ve loved doing because I can really connect with the person,” Van Pelt said. “I became a features editor for two years because I never wanted anything more than features.”

Van Pelt's first feature story, where she handled a sensitive topic with grace and compassion, won over her editor, who advised her to apply to take on an editor role during her sophomore year. Van Pelt, one of three freshmen to get an editor position her sophomore year, eventually applied to be an EIC. The role, however, requires communication and instructing other writers, which at times was compromised by her auditory disability.

“Being born deaf and hard-of-hearing comes with a lot of challenges in and out of the classroom. On the first day of school, I told everybody I was deaf, but I’ve still been able to create a lot of really great relationships, and I think it comes with putting the initiative to have the conversations oneon-one,” Van Pelt said. “I’ve learned how

to adapt, ask for my accommodations and advocate for myself.”

Growing up, doctors advised Van Pelt’s parents that she may not have the ability to read past a fourth-grade level. She underwent speech therapy, physical therapy, neurological therapy and worked hard to advance to the level her peers were at.

“Being able to serve as an editor-in-chief was a huge achievement. More often than not, I am people's first time meeting a deaf person. I take it as a teaching moment,”

Van Pelt said.

Aside from her extracurriculars, including Media Arts and Advanced Broadcasting, Van Pelt enjoys pushing herself academically. In addition to her love of history, Van Pelt was able to attend California Boys and Girls State (CBGS) in the summer of 2024 to learn about govern ment processes and in teract with like-minded young adults.

“I had an amazing experi ence seeing both men and women work ing together. I made a lot of friends, and ev erybody had something that was important to them. It was cool to see my values and interests align with a lot of other different people,” Van Pelt said. 3

tential route of interest for Van Pelt moving forward.

“I am a very busy person. But at the end of the day, I knew I had the motivation within myself to do it all, and I wanted to do it all. That has been my work ethic from the very beginning, to try to do my best and prove that despite my disability, I can still do all of these things,” Van Pelt said. “From the young age of two, when I was diagnosed, there have always been these barriers. Being able to move past those and take five APs, volunteer, hang out with friends and still have fun—that was just everything that I ever wanted coming to fruition.” Van Pelt’s father, Steven Van Pelt, sees how hard she has worked towards her goals and is supportive of her ac-

noticed an abundance of growth through Van Pelt's sacrifices.

“It’s very difficult to manage people that have different approaches to the way things should be done. She is patient and kind with that, and embraces having a plurality of opinions,” Steven Van Pelt said. “She incorporates those things into what she writes about, or the way she edits or the way she works with others in journalism and RUTV in making them feel included.” Van Pelt recognizes how her family has helped shape her ability to strive and make connections with others.

CBGS fostered a po-

ASHLEY

“Life throws you a lot of things that you don’t expect, but Marley has continued to exceed expectations and has worked tremendously hard to get where she is. One of her strongest suits is her ability to be resilient and bounce back from things that would set a lot of other kids back. She puts her nose to the grindstone. She's overcome so much,” Steven Van Pelt said. Steven Van Pelt has

“I wanted to prove to my parents that I was somebody worth investing in. It sounds trivial, but it truly was a lot of work on their part. They didn’t know what to do because they didn’t have previous exposure to the deaf and hard-of-hearing world. They put a lot of work into me, and I wanted to have that count for something. I didn’t want it to be for nothing,” Van Pelt said. Her work ethic and motivation to thrive have pushed Van Pelt toward the Ivy League, where she will be attending Yale University in the fall.

“At Yale, [I want] to help marginalized communities as a whole through law, company policy and whatever it may be to give people better standards of living,” Van Pelt said. “There are lots of kids like me who didn’t get speech therapy, neurological help, cochlear implants or a chance to succeed. The fact that I’m able to be a success story, I want to pass that to somebody else.” 3. Van Pelt attends a Yale Reception in Downtown LA in preparation to make her decision.

you don't know what you want to do yet, don't panic. Work your way through high school and you'll figure it out by senior year. Don't stress."

PHOTO BY TREASURED MOMENTS KATHAN MALLYA

PHOTO BY TREASURED MOMENTS

PETERSON

An eye for the arts

by Fi Borgese

With a love for the unconventional, Kat Otey shares their values through their art, whether it be through drawing, writing or less traditional art forms. Personal experiences, other people and media such as "The Bell Jar" and "The Perks of Being a Wallflower" influence Otey’s art.

“I put a little bit of myself into everything that I write. I couldn't create or write something that isn't deeply meaningful to me,” Otey said.

Otey is in AP 2D Art this year and uses the class as a way to express themself and better convey their beliefs. According to Otey, although they have always been passionate about art, the class inspires them a lot. They view it as a way to improve the way they represent themselves through art. Some of the main subjects of their portfolio are their original characters.

“I really like to draw my characters, because my characters are extensions of myself. So being in art this year has meant that I've been able to do that a lot, which is

really awesome,” Otey said.

Otey speaks their mind openly both verbally and through less practical ways, using their style to express their individuality.

“I like to alter clothes. I’m working on my battle jacket [punk patch jacket] right now. I love putting politics, beliefs, art, music taste and affiliations on a piece of clothing,” Otey said.

a strong voice and a strong idea of who you are in the art that you create will inherently make it imperfect, because perfect things have no soul, and imperfect things have a soul.”

Otey uses this philosophy not only within their own art, but also to help others with theirs. They volunteer at Resin, a volunteer based art studio that gives lessons to kids and provides spaces for artists in the South Bay to work.

“I've been going to Resin for 2 years and it's one

Otey describes their art as different from others. They stray from traditional rules in their writing by using run-on sentences and not being entirely grammatically correct. According to them, writing voice does not only come out through what is written, but also through how it is written.

“I'm very okay with my pieces not being perfect. I think that imperfection is a super important part of art,” Otey said. “Having

their beliefs that “there is creativity, and there is art, and there is love in everything.”

Bain recognizes the reflection of Otey’s values in their art as well.

“I see Kat and their art just so deeply connected,” Bain said. “Art is a way to convey emotions, beliefs, ideals and more, and whenever I see Kat’s art, I'm reminded of who they are as a person, someone who's unafraid to speak up against injustice and address current issues.”

Bain views Otey’s art as “a way for them to challenge existing ideas and inequity” by using colors and patterns to ”be loud and unable to be ignored.” Not only does Bain see Otey’s creativity through their art, but also through their everyday self.

of my favorite places to be,” Otey said. “I love being surrounded by creative people who have dedicated their lives to sharing that creativity.”

Junior Madelyn Bain, a close friend of Otey’s and fellow volunteer, describes their art as messy but also perfectly curated.

“Kat has a very unique way of expressing themselves, and there's an element of chaos to their art that I think just perfectly encapsulates the teenage experience and imperfections of life,” Bain said.

Otey’s works are mainly based around

“I've seen Kat’s creativity shine through in many different ways, like the way they style their clothes. I've never seen them wear the same thing twice, they wear a different shade of combination of eyeshadow every single day and make bracelets or add little details to their shoes. I don't think there's an area or aspect of Kat I've ever seen that is bland or dull,” Bain said.

Otey’s main message they convey in their pieces is that humanity is inherently good and there is art in everything and everyone.

“I try to convey my love for people as a whole,” Otey said. “It’s my strong belief that everyone is inherently creative, and everyone has so much love to give, and that I have so much love to give. I try to express that love through my art.”

1. Otey and Bain paint together.

2. & 3. Pieces by Otey.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF KAT OTEY

4. Cielak prepares to take a photo.

BY

5. Cielak instructs edits a message instructing yearbook photographers.

BY GRACE TAYAG

Mia Cielak's photography skills on par with professionals

by Valentina Masoni

Yearbook

Photo Editor-in-Chief

Mia Cielak originally joined the class by mistake. After taking Digital Photo her freshman year to fulfill her art credit in a way that would simultaneously cater to her interest in photography, she thought that Advanced Photography was a continuation of that class. What began as an accidental joining turned into three years of contribution to the program and two as an editor-in-chief.

“I knew a couple people in the class. I figured I would stick it out, give it a try, and I ended up really, really liking it. I hate sports with a passion, but somehow I really enjoy taking photos of sports,” Cielak said. “Towards the end of the year, I also realized I wanted to make the class better and I was recognizing things that [could] be changed.”

At the end of her sophomore year, Cielak was chosen to be Photo Editor-in-Chief for the following year, the only rising junior out of three photo editor-in-chiefs. With her new leadership position, Cielak began implementing some changes into the program to make things smoother.

“I decided we needed a studio shot calendar, so people could see what days are available, who’s taking the photo and how many studio shots were being taken in each period,” Cielak said. “We stayed more on

top of schedules for sports and ASB events, so that our calendars were up to date and people weren’t being assigned to events last minute.”

Cielak says her senior year was the “most special” of all her years in publi cations, as she “really stepped into her role” as Editor-in-Chief and the qual ity of the work being produced was “amazing.”

“We worked very hard to make sure that all the sports had good photos, and all the events had good photos. If a sport didn’t have the best photos, we would send more photographers to games, because we want to produce the best work possible, not something mediocre,” Cielak said. “People were a lot more communicative and cooperative.”

As a leader, Cielak emphasizes communication among the staff and encourages underclassmen to reach out to her. She hopes to “forge a bond” with every member of the yearbook staff.

“My favorite part about

being a leader is that I’m helping improve something bigger than myself, and that comes from communicating well with others, reaching out, taking initiative,” Cielak said. “Some people get a leadership position and assume that people will come to them for help, but as a leader you have a responsibility to push for that connection. The fact that

people feel comfortable enough to ask me questions makes me feel good because I know I’m doing something right.”

Cielak’s strong leadership is recognized throughout the yearbook program and will be “very missed,” according to junior Tamara Botwin-Lazarow.

“She really stands out because she’s the best at [getting to know] everyone and stepping up in other leadership roles that aren’t part of her job description,” Botwin-Lazarow said. “It’s so easy to talk to her, and we all look up to her and rely on her for guidance because she’s just that good at her job.”

Cielak will be attending the University of Massachusetts, Amherst and majoring in management, applying her skills developed by managing a yearbook staff to her college experience. She plans to keep photography as a hobby and passion, saying that if there’s a paper or a way she can take photos in sports she will “absolutely partake in it.”

“It all goes back to finding a space that you fit in, and finding a place you belong to, which is something I totally got out of yearbook,” Cielak said. “I felt like quitting at the beginning, but I stuck with it, and I met my people and found such a good community where we create something so important.”

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ABIGAIL BIERWILER

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Closing the book

Riley Rapista cultivates creativity and leadership skills as a yearbook editor-in-chief

by Ava Anzivino

Producing and scanning an abundance of page spreads for months on end while directing a large staff made up of students would not be considered easy by most. However, yearbook Editor-in-Chief (EIC) Riley Rapista found passion in his leadership responsibilities. With the help of his fellow staff members, he was able to meet the yearbook

submission deadline right on time, signifying yet another successful year for the yearbook staff.

Rapista has worked on the yearbook for all four years of his high school career, but his introduction to the program was untraditional. Since the yearbook was understaffed his freshman year, Rapista said he was “thrown into the fire” when he took on the role of a main page editor early on.

“I was forced to get a feel for it early, but I would argue that I took it pretty well. I had good EICs that helped teach me along the way. That gave me the confidence to eventually help other people as I became an upperclassman, and that made me grow as an editor,” Rapista said.

Early on, Rapista identified that he didn't want to continue to be on the yearbook staff just for the sake of his college resume, but also because he found interest in the work he did as a staff member.

“I really enjoyed the process of loving everything we made. I met great people on staff and [the advisors], Mrs. Eastham and Ms. Velasco were both huge role models for me. I enjoyed everything about it, but I’m especially passionate about the graphic design aspect,” Rapista said.

Rapista worked alongside two other EIC’s, juniors CJ Lawrence and Solana Montano, and the three dedicated many hours to producing the yearbook. Montano notes that Rapista's extra year of experience was a “huge help” throughout the production of the yearbook.

“I would go to him for a lot of my questions. Even though CJ and I have a good amount of experience and would make decisions in class a lot, his presence was a good example for the both of us,” Montano said.

Rapista’s proficiency in graphic design was eye-catching to his peers, and his stylistic choices are highlighted throughout the book.

“I went to him a lot when I couldn't figure out how to design my spreads, or I couldn’t think of a headline. He’s a creative person, and he channels that into the book. He got me out of my comfort zone, and I experimented with styles I never would’ve gravitated towards before,” Montano said.

With his experience as a member of the football team throughout high school, Rapista learned how teamwork and camaraderie helped create a better product.

“Football is the ultimate team sport. It’s one of those sports that cannot be played with just one person. You need all 20 on the team to do their job in order to be successful. So having that teamwork mindset was definitely something I try to bring into the program, and it’s something that I really stress to the underclassmen on staff,” Rapista said.

Rapista hopes to use his leadership experience on the yearbook staff in a collegiate and eventually professional setting. He will be attending Loyola Marymount University in the fall to study marketing.

“I want to have a stable job that I’m passionate about, whether that’s in the sports industry or in the entertainment industry,” Rapista said. “Taking the leadership, graphic design and collaborative skills that I learned in the yearbook class will definitely help me throughout my career.”

Ethan Chi demonstrates perseverance on his journey to pursue a

by Sam Schwartz

Nothing has been handed to Ethan Chi, who has had to work through rejection and academic struggles to be able to pursue a major in journalism at University of Southern California (USC). Through ambition and perseverance, Chi found his strengths and used them to the best of his abilities.

After being recommended to journalism, Chi had a rude awakening to the reality of writing for a newspaper. However, the pressures of writing for a paper never led him to quit, and rather, it forced him to improve.

“I remember the first story I ever wrote was a volleyball story, and the volleyball girls went through with a highlighter and shredded me. And I was kind of traumatized by that, but there were not really any other slots that were available, so I was just like, I'm just gonna [write sports] until I can do it well. [Later], I was interviewing Bradley Bennett, a basketball player, and I [combined] everything that I had learned in sports to write his story. So I used basketball as kind of a metaphor for his story of perseverance. And after that, I got recruited to be sports editor,” Chi said.

Chi’s AP Language teacher Elizabeth

“There

Valentekovich got to see his determination to improve his writing skills. According to Valentekovich, Chi would go beyond her edits in order to take the most he could from each essay.

“He was really interested in growing his writing. He would come back after every essay, and he would be ready to pick his essay apart,” Valentekovich said. “He would bring in his ideas about how he could have changed things, so he would come in with revisions and very specific questions."

According to Valentekovich, Chi’s AP Lang TED Talk exceeded the time limit, but he prioritized a thorough presentation over a few points.

“He was watching the timer, and I saw him understand that it was going to go way over, and he just decided that he did not care. He was having a good time up there,” Valentekovich said. “He told me that he liked being up there in that sort of teacher situation, so he just threw it out the window and decided that he was going to lose a few points, so that he could continue to entertain the class.”

For Chi, his choice in major and school was inspired by an internship at USC that let him understand that he could truly

make an impact in the world of journalism.

“Right now, in a time where the media has such a contentious relationship with the federal government, and there's so much threat of censorship, what I'm doing right now is needed, is important and is something that I think I'd be good at,” Chi said.

According to Valentekovich, Chi is deliberate when communicating, which is an asset to him.

“In any sort of whole class discus sions or in our Harkness discussions, he was a really fast reader, a quick thinker and then he had really succinct, smart answers,” Valentekovich said. “He made it seem like it was effort less, and yet, he also had a lot of times in class where I could almost see the wheels turning because he was taking so much time to think about how he wanted to say something before he actually said it.”

After he was not chosen for edi tor-in-chief for journalism, Chi was forced to adapt and did so by not letting his disappointment end his journalism experience.

“You can be a victim of rejec

PHOTO BY TREASURED MOMENTS

Crafting their own future

Watching colorful pixels representing confetti fall from the top of her screen, Aaliyah Roberson sheds tears of joy, realizing all her hard work has finally paid off. Roberson is a filmmaker and an opinion editor for High Tide, who is attending the University of Southern California (USC) in the fall for Film and TV Production.

stuff done,” Roberson said.

Despite spending two summers doing the film program, Roberson still had difficulties with the USC application and was particularly nervous on the prompts.

“We got a prompt and it was just ‘a secret’ which could be anything, so I was stressing out for weeks about it. But then I talked to my dad and my friends and

Sitting in a chair, Amina Raïss’s fingers tap away on the keyboard as she makes a few small edits to her unpublished story. She has a plan for how she wants to publish her book, and is doing everything she can so one day she can see it on a bookstore shelf.

“I don’t want to self-publish, because I feel going through the traditional publishing route would be a lot easier and ensure that it’s a good quality product that I can put out. That way, if I want to do more down the line, it will be structured,” Raïss said. “It’ll be a goal to reach by the end of my freshman year [of college].”

liver materials .

“When I was delivering the books, I wasn’t able to be as hands on, giving them to people because of the safety restrictions and everything, especially because some book drives were at hospitals and homeless shelters.”

“It was my first time doing something that felt big and important. So it was fun to have that experience, feeling like I was doing something that was going to help people, and give back to my community,” Raïss said.

Whether it be through film or jour nalism, Roberson has always enjoyed sharing people’s stories.

“I liked talking to people at our school, and getting their stories out there,” Rob erson said. “I wanted to be involved in the student body, to be a part of the com munity and connect with other people at this school, so I thought [High Tide] was a good way to do that.”

While Roberson always enjoyed writing articles, she realized film was her chosen medium when she attended the USC cinematic arts program the summer before her junior year.

“When we got there, we got to work on a bunch of different short films and make our own personal shorts. I did a directing a short film class, where I was able to write my own screenplay and put it into production. That was the first time I got to be the director of my own story and work with professional actors,” Roberson said.

At the summer program Roberson learned a lot about film-making, the most important skill being how to network with others in the industry.

“I learned to branch out and talk to people, because film is such a collaborative industry [and not as competitive] because you always need someone to help you do something while you’re in production or an actor in post-production.I would say meeting and introducing myself to people definitely builds that community and that network that’s really important to getting

Being a part of something bigger than herself has always been the goal for Meara Fay. She has achieved this by acting as a keystone for multiple clubs and organizations, such as the Beach Cities Health District (BCHD) Youth Advisory Council. She aims to continue helping those in need. Fay is attend ing Marymount Manhattan College to earn her Bachelor of Science in behavioral neuroscience to strengthen her under standing of men tal health. After wards, she plans to get her doctor ate and become a clinical psychol ogist.

"I've been in terested in psy chology for a long time, both from personal experience, but also from the experienc es of peo ple in my life," Fay said. "It has been impactful to be a part of [the BCHD community] and be able to contribute to the greater cause of alleviat ing mental health struggles for everyone, which I think can also be done [by pursu ing] a career in psychology."

sat with myself and was able to produce a script that, although [not] perfect, still rep resented me as someone open to learning [who is] trying to put myself out there and do creative stories,” Roberson said.

Eventually all of Rob erson’s determination paid off when she learned she finally got into her dream school.

“I cried. It was a moment where the buildup was just so much. You’re thinking ‘Did I do enough?’ Being able to see the confetti on the screen was definitely surreal," Roberson said. That’s when you realize you’re set for the next four years. You know you didn’t let down all the people that you told it was your dream school."

"I joined [Interact Club] because my grandparents were founders of a Rotary club of their own," Fay said. “My freshman year was the year back from COVID, so clubs weren't a thing, and I knew I wanted to do it."

The club has a yearly event in which bags are created with important toiletries, that are donated to help those struggling with addiction, those who are unhoused, or those who are victims of domestic violence.

While participating in the BCHD Youth Advisory Council, Fay also cemented her role as president of the Interact Club. In teract Club is the high school division of Rotary International, a worldwide organization that works towards improving communities through humanitarian services.

Fay has found that her experiences in both the Interact club and the BCHD Youth Advisory Council have been impactful on her future and believes it is essential that she continues work to inform assist vulnerindividuals. feel [it is] an portant asset young person to to enlighten older policy makers who don’t understand [substance abuse],” Fay said.“To be able to give them a teenager’s perspective is helpful for the community.”

Raïss has accomplished many things during her four years of high school. One of them was writing a five-hundred-page book, partially inspired by her favorite childhood fantasy series, “Keeper of the Lost Cities.” Raïss’s novel falls into the fantasy genre, featuring unique creatures traveling throughout their world’s realm. Raïss’s deep love for reading and writing gave her motivation to start organizing book drives as well as write her novel.

“I thought, [since] I love to read so much, I’m sure plenty of other kids would too, but they just don’t have access to it. So I start ed doing book drives during COVID,” Raïss said. “My mom’s friends, my dad’s friends, and my friends would drop off books, and then I would give them to my mom to hand them out at work.”

Raïss had a unique experience going through with her book drives during the COVID-19 pandemic, where masking rules restricted how she'd de

BAs Raïss closes this chapter of her life in high school, she will be opening a new one at UC Berkeley, bringing her book-loving spirit with her into whichever career she chooses.

“In freshman year [at UC Berkeley] it will be important for me to figure out what pathway I’m most interested in, if it’s environment, or if it’s English," Raïss said. "Maybe if I find out that I really do love both of them, I can do environmental law. But [thanks to the plethora of opportunities] I feel like, no matter what happens, I’ll be able to find my passion and pursue something great.”

y the time she turns 18, she will have already seen the beaches of Hawaii, the rainy sidewalks of London, the towering skyscrapers of New York City and the rolling hills of Serbia. In fact, Senior Katarina Sapina has already seen a dozen or so more countries and states.

that could both support that love to sightsee and fit her personality, Sapina turned to real estate. It’s material benefits are that it doesn't put a cap on her salary, and it gives her the opportunity to use networking skills to make a living right away, which will allow Sapina to continue traveling as she enters adulthood.

Sapina was born in Seattle, but shortly after, her family had to move back to Serbia. Sapina was raised in Europe until she was ready to enter school at age 5, when her parents took her back to the United States.

“Since I lived with my grandparents who didn't speak English, my whole family spoke Serbian to me. It's my first language,” Sapina said. “My parents knew that I was going to learn English when I started school any ways, so I only knew a few words of it when I start ed kindergarten. Luckily, I learned English pret ty quickly once I entered school so it wasn't too much of an issue.”

Since she returned to America, Sapina and her family have taken every opportunity to continue to see the world through out the years, which has allowed her to build up an impressive resume of the places she has traveled to.

“I've been to places all around Europe, as well as many different [US] states. I travel pretty much every sin gle summer. Throughout my life going forward I want to see the world as much as possible and continue to learn,” Sapina said.

When looking for a career

“You're working with so many different clients as an agent. I feel my childhood taught me how to interact with different kinds of people, which gives me a unique advantage in real estate," Sapina said. "In that sphere, you have to be very outgoing

and extroverted as you interact and I couldn’t have learned to be that way with-

PHOTO BY HAYLEE LAWRENCE

PHOTO BY HAYLEE LAWRENCE

PHOTO BY HAYLEE LAWRENCE

PHOTO BY MATTHEW VITT

by Jayla Dorbor

by Stella Harper

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by Francisco Villegas

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PHOTO VIA FREEPIK

Pointe shoes and lab goggles do not exactly go hand in hand, but Lauren Choy’s her past career aspirations of becoming a ballerina contributed towards her new goals in the field of biology. Choy’s path from dancer to “woman in STEM” was first inspired by her experiences in physical therapy after suffering a hip injury.

“I became interested in how the body works because, being a dancer, your body is your instrument. Being able to look at the science behind it, that’s where my passion for STEM came about,” Choy said.

Outside of dance, Choy had more student-teacher ex periences that solidified her value in personal re lationships.

“My AP [Language] teacher, Ms. Variz, gen uinely gave me so much constructive feedback, all to help me achieve the highest grade possible. She was so personal, which was similar to what happened at bal let,” Choy said.

Choy’s relation ships with her teachers shaped the way she would interact with her peers, especially with cousin Katelyn Kang.

“I started shadowing my physical therapist because I wanted to see if that was something I wanted to do. I was very interested in the patient-physician relationship,” Choy said. “I broadened it out with biology.”

Choy leaves for UC Berkeley in the fall, planning to major in molecular and cell biology. Choy hopes to carry the value that she has found in personal relation-

Senior High Tide EDITORIAL STAFF

“100 percent, she is my mentor and role model.” Kang said. “It’s truly just a natural, friendship dynamic, where she has guided me as a mentor, a family member and a friend.”

While injured, Choy didn’t just realize her love for STEM but also found interest in the relationship dynamics she observed, which further opened interest in STEM-based prospects.

For Rena Felde, high school has been a non-stop hustle. As a leader in flag football, High Tide, theater, the Redondo Youth Commission, Boys and Girls State and more, Felde’s life is overflowing with fulfilling activities and passions. But at the heart of her busy life, Felde is committed to her community, building connections and thinking deeply about the world. Her trademark charisma and contagious laugh will follow her to Cornell University, where she will be majoring in Global Development.

ships into the fields of biotech or research.

“I feel like I’d have a bigger influence and impact in the biotech research field because I’m not working with one person at a time,” Choy said. “Realizing how big of an impact relationships can have in every field, school, ballet, work, everything, reinstated for me that I want to have that impact on someone. There are such great coaches and teachers out there that I have worked with, and I want people to [be able to feel equally impacted] in their time with me.”

RUHS uses aluminum bottles instead of plastic ones and 100% recyclable napkins [because of work that I have done],” Felde said.

Felde attributes her passion for agriculture, food and nature to the frequent exposure she has had through her family.

“My dad and his best friend and I al-

Leaving her life in the warm South Bay beach cities behind, Isabella Kohler is creating a new path for herself as a writer in the foggy marine layer and chill breeze of San Francisco. Kohler already has some experience with the profession, as she spends much of her time on creative writing, and has also been on the High Tide for three years.

Being half Brazilian, Kohler and her family lived in Brazil for three years. She grew up immersed in that culture, and it has heavily influenced her writing to focus on the underrepresented peoples, cultures, and lifestyles of the world. Kohler is a part of a club for Brazil

ian girls in Califor nia and Florida called the South American Sup port Education, where she tu tors Brazil ian kids that struggle with school.

“[Some young girls and I] get togeth er every month to hang out and talk about how life is going for us. Some of them have just recently moved here from Brazil, and some of us have been living here our whole lives. It’s just a really fun way to be connected to our culture, living in America because I feel like you don’t meet a lot of Brazilians that have a background of living in Brazil and know the culture, so it’s a great way to

connect with people,” Kohler said. Beyond writing for the High Tide, Kohler writes about 30 pages a month of creative writing. One of the main projects she’s working on right now is a book about antique letters she found at Stars Antique Market, an antique store in Hermosa Beach. The letters date back to World War II from a girl who was living in LA at the time. So, Kohler is now RUHS’ school historian, Terri Martinez, and they are now working together to chronologize her experiences.

“I think [the book] is something that would be a really interesting way to close out my high school experience. All the things I have learned in school have led me to writing this book,” Kohler said.

Kohler and her mother both agree San Francisco is a great choice for her because it’s a city, so there will be a lot for her toed for college, but it's also soing behind my family and my friends.” Kohlering has always been really internal to me but in college I want it to be something I’m more strategic about. I feel like I write for myself but I want to start writing things that other people

According to her father Daniel Felde, Felde has always been “mature and outgoing.”

“Rena is a risk-taker. She puts herself out there and tries new things — she’s not afraid to fail,” Daniel Felde said.

Felde’s commitment to community led her to serve as the chair for the Redondo Youth Commission, an organization that gives young people a voice in city government. As chair, Felde worked to restore the local teen center and advocate for teen recreational services.

“I just have a lot of interests. For example, I’ve been athletic since I was a kid, I grew up playing softball and Judo,” Felde said.

Felde joined the flag football team in hopes of playing a new sport along with other novice players – for the sport was novel to RUHS.

“I really love the high school experience of being in a sport: the merch, the comradery, the gear. I couldn’t leave high school without having that,” Felde said.

Felde also harnessed her talents in communication to work with district directors to understand the systems behind food and waste on campus, and used her journalism skills to get her message across.

“I was able to actually make a change.

ways go on camping trips every year. My mom was a personal trainer for 20 years at the YMCA. My desire to be outside and be active also comes from going to summer camps as a kid. Summer camps also helped me become social,” Felde said.

After realizing that being a nurse and dealing with needles wasn’t all that appealing to her, Celeste Ernau looked inward and discovered a passion for immigration law.

Felde’s purpose in all her activities, including as a camp counselor at the YMCA, is to give back to all the places and people that gave to her.

“No matter what she does, where she goes, she continues to inspire me and everyone around her,” Daniel Felde said. “She has that way about her.”

“Most of my family are immigrants. That was definitely a catalyst for me. I saw the Hispanic immigrant community suffer mistreatment, and I wanted to contribute to [fighting] that,” Ernau said.

Coming from an immigrant background herself, Ernau explained the issue of how lawyers take advantage of immigrant families.

“Immigration lawyers take advantage of the people who they are trying to help, because a lot of them don't speak English and don’t know the rules of this country,” Ernau said.” And even if the lawyer might know that their case has no hope, they will still funnel them for money and say that if they pay for this or that thing they'll be able to get some sort of legal status.”

Being the person she is, Ernau wants to join immigration law so she can be the change.

“There is a need for an immigration lawyer in this country who could actually help people instead of just wanting money [...] I want to work for immigrants and families who need help,” Ernau said.

Ernau’s desire to help immigrant families is so strong that she

doesn’t really care if she ends up on the lower end of the lawyer pay scale. Her goal is to help families that need it. Her Hispanic heritage and culture has strengthened that passion.

“As a Latina, you grow up surrounded by a ton of people in your community who are immigrants,” Ernau said. “A lot of my friends have parents who are immigrants, and it's hard seeing how hard these people have to work in their everyday lives. I

feel strongly that no kid should have to grow up in fear of [their parent’s being deported].”

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PHOTO BY HAYLEE LAWRENCE

PHOTO BY HAYLEE LAWRENCE

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by Priya Ramcharan

by Samantha Kim

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by Sydney Keller

Marching toward the future

Marissa Mayeda leads the marching band as a drum major

At the end of every marching band competition performance, an announcer reads off RUHS' particularly long list of student leaders: every section leader, every member of the executive student leaders, and, of course, both drum majors, one of whom is bass clarinet player Marissa Mayeda.

Mayeda has always loved marching band because of the wide variety of people she would not otherwise get the opportunity to work with.

“I love how [marching band] brings together people of different grade groups. Most of these people I probably would never have met, and it’s a cool way to get to know new people, make new friends and get to work with others,” Mayeda said.

Mayeda also said she loves working with the bass clarinet section in particular. She has been playing bass clarinet since seventh grade, and she continues to enjoy playing the instrument with the other members of her section.

“I’d say we’re probably the section that has the most fun, even if we tend to get in trouble a little more. We’re always the one that brings the spirit, and we always have fun whenever we’re playing, or even doing random stuff,” Mayeda said.

Another student in her section, fresh-

man Hannah Shaaban, agrees that there is seldom a dull moment with the bass clarinets.

“My section is really fun. They’re able to make me laugh all the time, and we always have fun. They welcomed me really, really well [into the section]. Since my first day, everyone’s been talking to me and making me feel a lot more welcome,” Shaaban said.

Getting to work with students in other grade levels, like Shaaban, is a significant reason why Mayeda was interested in becoming a drum major.

“[Working with other grade levels has] definitely been a learning experience because, without band, I never would have had to really teach like that. So yeah, definitely some learning curves. You learn to acknowledge different personality

types differently, and you work with a lot of different learning styles,” Mayeda said. Shaaban said she has gotten a lot of help from Mayeda in learning how to improve her playing and get better at working with her instrument.

“She’s taught me a lot of tips on how to read music and set up faster. She’s helped me multiple times, like if my bass clarinet stops playing, she’s able to find out what’s wrong and help me out really quickly,” Shaaban said.

Despite having been a section leader since her sophomore year, Mayeda only discovered an interest in becoming a drum major last year.

“Lots of people will tell me, ‘What do you mean you only wanted to be drum

by Ellie Gasparovic

major last year? I’ve been dreaming about it since I could talk!’ but it was really last year, being section leader, [when] I realized that I wanted to have a bigger impact on the band as a whole, rather than just my section,” Mayeda said.

Shaaban complimented Mayeda’s ability to lead in groups, like the bass clarinet section, and said that she felt the section would be lost without her.

“She kind of holds us together really well. She has a lot of leadership skills, so she’s able to help us through things. Whenever we’re doing sectionals, we’re able to get [things] done really fast,” Shaaban said. Mayeda enjoyed being a drum major and part of the marching band program as a whole, and definitely recommends the experience to others.

“Getting to meet and work with so many different people, working with staff and other student leaders and freshmen in Sea Hawk Band, that was just really fun,” Mayeda said. “It’s been such a life-changing experience.”

Ethan Tiffany mentors underclassmen while serving as band captain

by Carly Jacecko

When Ethan Tiffany decided to join the RUHS marching band at the beginning of his freshman year, he could not have imagined the opportunities it would provide for the rest of his high school career. As a ninth grader, Tiffany was initially trying out different extracurriculars and did not know what was right for him yet. One of the groups he joined during this discovery process happened to be the marching band.

“I started my freshman year in jazz band, Sea Hawk band, wind ensemble and marching band. Over the years, I’ve stayed in the marching band the longest because I’ve loved the community and the people, but jazz band is definitely my favorite,” Tiffany said.

a part of the RUHS student leadership team and a role model for his friends and peers. Tiffany was chosen for this role based on his dedication to the department, as well as the many ways in which he led by example throughout his past years in the band.

Already being so involved in the music department, Tiffany decided to apply to be the marching band captain at the beginning of his senior year. He had already demonstrated leadership skills prior to applying for captain by being

“Ever since I was a freshman, I knew I wanted some type of leadership position, so I made an effort every year to stand out and do everything the best I could. I made an effort [towards] leadership in the years I was in [band], but I want to do more, especially with music. I got the captain role, which was great, but, especially this year, we didn’t have a lot of staff helping us so a lot of responsibility was put on me,” Tiffany said.

The band director, Frederick Steiner, who is now finishing up his first year teaching at RUHS, instantly formed a connection with Tiffany as a result of their intertwined leadership positions. He admires Tiffany’s maturity, talent and his way of keeping himself and

everyone around him calm in stressful situations. Steiner recalled Tiffany as being a “rock” for the band at competitions, football games and concerts.

“He sets the best example for everyone, and he doesn’t do that accidentally. Believe it or not, when it comes to student leadership, a key charac teristic of Ethan is that he is respectful to his peers. I’m sure Ethan has gotten frustrated over the years working with the students and wanted to be critical or use harsh words, but he never did.” Steiner said.

According to Steiner, Tiffany is also an asset to the band sim ply because of his ability to play well and dedicate himself to his musical instruments; he is one of the first two chair trumpet play ers in the wind ensemble, plays mellophone in the marching band and plays the saxophone outside of school. Aside from his musical knowledge and the ways he helps his peers get better at playing their own instruments, he is a leader in the sense that he cannot only teach but also learn from those around him.

“He sets the right example for everyone, and I believe Ethan truly does want everything that’s best for his peers. When he is given advice, he doesn’t just use it to his own advantage. He takes the advice and

applies it to himself, but he also tries to improve his peers with the same advice. He wants the band and everything he can improve to be the best it can be,” Steiner said. Tiffany will be attending San Diego State University in the fall and plans to major in aerospace engineering and minor in political science. He hopes to continue to play music and be a member of the SDSU marching band to continue furthering his passion for music.

“It’ll be more relaxed at San Diego [State University] because I won’t be going to competitions anymore. I’ll just be playing at football games, which are fun. I’m excited for that. I want to focus on college, though, and my other interests like space and law,” Tiffany said. “I’ll miss my friends from Redondo and the community we’ve built around music, but part of life is pushing yourself out of your comfort zone and moving on from the past. I plan on making the most of my time in college while remembering the things I learned in high school.

SARINA KROTHAPALLI

PHOTO BY TREASURED MOMENTS

2. Tiffany marches across the football field,

Tiffany plays at halftime with one shoe after he kicked one off during a performance.

COURTESY OF ETHAN TIFFANY

1. Mayeda stands on a platform and salutes the judges before a band performance.

PHOTO COURTESY OF MARISSA MAYEDA.

THE SHOW GOES ON

Cayley Dawson designed costumes for every show her senior year

by Kaitlyn Chang

After years of sewing, making outfits, sketching designs for costumes, taking notes and spending long hours after school, Cayley Dawson feels right at home in theater.

Being in theater for four years, Dawson has been in 12 productions, the most a student can do. Dawson has always been on costume crew, with her positions including Assistant Crew Lead, Wardrobe Master and Costume Designer.

“I had a friend my freshman year who was on cast for "Anatomy of Gray," [which was my first show]. I met her on the first day of school and she said it would be really cool if [I] joined the tech crew,” Dawson said. “I had done theater in the past when I was a kid, so I thought that’d be interesting [because] I like sewing. So I applied for costume crew, and I

got on and then I just kept doing it.”

Working alongside Dawson on productions was another theater senior, Daria Glukhova. Glukhova transferred to RUHS in her sophomore year, and being new, Dawson helped Glukhova feel more welcome in the program.

“I didn’t know anything about anybody. I only knew names and grades and that’s it. [But] Cayley gave me some information about her and I think that really helped me feel a bit closer to someone in the crew,” Glukhova said.

Dawson enjoys her technical duties in Costume Crew, but the people she works with are her favorite part of being in the program and its productions.

“My crew is like a little family. Even though it changes every show, we’re all so close and we all get to spend time together doing a common creative purpose, working toward a common goal. That’s really cool and

rewarding,” Dawson said. Glukhova’s favorite part of theater, like Dawson, is the people. “[They] are people who are ready to dedicate a lot of their free time. During some weeks, we stay [at the theater] until nine or 10 p.m. and it’s a lot. On top of that we have homework, and it's always the week you have a lot of tests,” Glukhova said. “I come from a different culture. I maybe behave differently sometimes, and people are okay with that. Maybe sometimes I do make grammar mistakes, maybe I don’t speak as well as other native speakers, but [they] still accepted me, and they were still enthusiastic to talk with me and try [to do so]. I appreciate that a lot.”

Being a part of the productions at Redondo takes a lot of time and effort, especially for Dawson as the designer for all three of the productions held at Redondo this school year.

“It’s a long process, [but] it was my work and my designs that were the outcome for the show, which was really cool,” Dawson said. “I don’t know how to describe it, but there’s such a big feeling when you’re backstage and you hear the audience out there and you see all the actors going on stage playing their roles. It’s a really cool environment.”

Victoria Vasquez plans to continue her passion for stage management

by Sophie Rebbeck

Months of preparation and hard work flash through Victoria Vasquez’s mind, and as she puts on her headset, the world around her falls away. As the actors on the stage deliver a play, she keeps everything in order from a booth behind the audience, calling cues and making sure the production runs as smoothly as possible. For Vasquez, the role of stage manager in the theatre department is one that is as rewarding as it is enjoyable.

“I joined the department my freshman year, and I was on sound crew. Then when

I applied to the fall show my sophomore year, I was put in as assistant stage manager. Now it’s something I want to do for the rest of my life,” Vasquez said.

Vasquez is in charge of everything that goes on behind the scenes both leading up to and during every show that the theatre department puts on. From "Sweeney Todd" to "Hadestown," the responsibilities for keeping everything organized are, while challenging, well worth it when the show finally hits the stage.

“During the weeks leading up to the show, during rehearsals, my assistants and I will just keep track of everything the cast is doing and connect with the crew,” Vasquez said. “I have to write down their blocking.

I have to write down if we need something specific for costumes or props or something specific on set. I basically have to memorize everything that goes on in the show.”

On top of ensuring

all the productions run smoothly, Vasquez also serves as an inspiration to other members of the shows, especially the underclassmen.

“She’s a really great role model because she’s setting an example of being strong and having good communication with everyone and cooperating with others while also being vulnerable to change,” freshman Violet Loubert said. “She shows how you can be flexible but still be a leader.”

Vasquez’s skills in both stage management and communication allow her to add valuable insight to many of the productions theatre brings to the stage. Her knowledge level ups the experience for both the cast and the audience.

“Because of all her involvement in 'Hadestown' and 'Matilda,' she's made so many choices that made the productions so much better in so many ways,” Loubert said. “For

'Hadestown,' she came up with so many blocking and staging ideas that worked well with the story we were telling.”

As she moves on to college, Vasquez will continue to work in theatre, taking her high school experience with her as she adds her expertise to even more productions.

“[Leaving] is very bittersweet. I'm tired and I have a lot of senioritis, but this has been my home away from home for four years,” Vasquez said. “Every time I have a headset on and I’m in all black, and I’m in a booth, I will always remember where it started. So I know my journey in theater isn’t ending, but this chapter of it is.”

Young minds, big impacts

Joey Mertz tutors kids with ADHD and speaks on the common misconceptions and difficulties that they face when learning

by Ziva Chabot

Around 11 percent of children in America have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) according to the CDC, one of the many reasons Joey Mertz tutors students who have ADHD. What started off as hanging out at a friend’s house became meeting their siblings and eventually tutoring them.

“I have a lot of friends with ADHD. A lot of the time, if your sibling has it, it’s likely that you have it too,” Mertz said.

Mertz is currently tutoring three kids, but has tutored up to four or five people at a time. Their grades range from third grade to eighth grade. Mertz’s strategy is to have the kids tell her what they already know before she helps them work through their work step by step, explaining things to them if they get stuck.

“I start by understanding that they aren’t in my head. They don’t know what I’m thinking and I don’t know what they’re thinking,” Mertz said. “I want them to tell me what they actually think, and if we have to start from square one, that’s fine.”

Although ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Dis order, hyperac tivity is not the only struggle:

ADHD mainly affects a person’s executive functions.

“You think that you can go faster than you can, and you skip over parts,” Mertz said. “When I’m sitting down with [the students I tutor], they’re reading [and then forget what they’re doing at the moment.]”

Having ADHD herself, Mertz knows that the kids she is tutoring are “not less intelligent,” but their brains work differently, which is not in their control.

“They actually have very high IQs,” Mertz said.

Mertz plans to tutor the kids after she grad

where I can put my input in there, educational therapy is real therapy. Being autistic and having ADHD significantly changes your quality of life,” Mertz said. “You’re asking yourself, ‘Why is everyone else able to do this thing so easily, and it is so hard for me?’ When people get the help that they need, they’re able to continue doing things.”

Mertz makes it clear that although being neurodivergent does cause someone to be different, that does not mean they are less than a neurotypical person.

“You’re still doing all of these things, it’s just that your brain does something different,” Mertz said. “If you break your leg and you need a crutch, that doesn’t make you any less of the person you were before.”

AP psychology teacher Megan Gould agrees with Mertz about how neurodivergent people deserve empathy and help. She also emphasizes the importance of advocating for oneself.

“The number one thing that teachers and neurodivergent students should grow in is learning to be self-reflective and [starting] to learn what accommodations would best help each individual,”

Since neurodivergence is a spectrum, each student's needs are different.

“I feel like teachers, students, parents and the whole community need to spend time with the student really evaluating what they might need,”

Gould said. “Not every student needs the same thing.”

Many of the kids Mertz tutors have 504 plans, or a legal agreement between schools and families to give children proper accommodations at school. Mertz suggests using them if needed. Even if the kids do not have a legal 504 plan, they can still get help in other ways.

“With the kids, a lot of the time I’m teaching them how to email their teachers because I know I had such an issue with it. It’s so scary. And I get it. I had that problem for so long, and then one day it clicked,” Mertz said. “People are so afraid to ask [for help], and then [get] stressed about things that if they asked about, would be okay.”

Mertz is interested in how neurodivergence affects how people function compared to neurotypicals, and wants to improve their ability to learn and function in educational settings. She uses that understanding, and her personal experiences, to help the kids she tutors.

“I don’t want to make their experience with education worse, because I love learning. It is so much easier to teach this child when they feel comfortable with me,” Mertz said. “When I know the person, I can go, ‘okay, here is where you usually have a hard time,’ [and then I can help them the best I can.]”

Zara Schwar founded the Slavic Culture Club while also staying persistent in jazz band

by Hayden McMahon

Culture, community and creativity are the impacts that Zara Schwar will be leaving behind after she graduates. As founder and president of the Slavic Culture Club and member of jazz band for her entire high school career, Schwar’s dedication and persistence are clear as day.

Schwar founded the Slavic Culture Club this fall after noticing that her culture, and several of her friends, were constantly overlooked and deserved more appreciation.

“We go to most of the cultural after-school activities like diversity night to share about the Slavic culture because a lot of people, even adults, usually don’t even know which countries are considered Slavic. We went to the Adams Diversity Night and asked people to point out any Slavic country on a map, and people kept pointing at Sweden,” Schwar said. “Our main goal is to teach people and make sure that any other Slavic person has a home here and feels included.”

Co-president of the Slavic Culture Club, junior Siena Barg, played a large role in the creation of the club, sharing similar wishes for a larger Slavic community. Barg and Schwar had already been good friends, but

their leadership of the club only brought them closer.

“Zara is Slovakian and I’m Czech, and after we met in jazz band my freshman year, she was inspired. At the end of last year, we thought ‘Why not go for it?’ and ended up officially starting the club in the fall this year,” Barg said. “For each club ses sion, we choose a Slavic country and make a slideshow teaching about the geography, traditional culture and fun things like mu sic and food.”

According to Barg, her memories with Schwar will always be a joy to look back on. From their time in jazz band together to their preparations for club meetings, fun is the only adjective that comes to her mind.

“We would always go to Target together on the way to band competitions and get Peeps or a new, random candy to try on the bus,” Barg said. “I’m not in a band with her anymore, but we still have a lot of fun run ning the club together. [Having fun] was really the main reason we wanted to create the club in the first place, but I’m so glad we also get to both learn and teach about Slavic culture as well.”

According to Schwar, playing clarinet for jazz band will be the most memorable

part of her high school experience. Being involved in the competitions and getting the opportunity to make everlasting friendships is something that Schwar will be forever grateful for.

Schwar said.

As far as academics go, Schwar discovered her passion for the environment while taking AP Environmental Science in her junior year, which aided in her decision to study environmental science at University of California, Santa Cruz after graduation.

“Once I realized how much I looked forward to discussing each topic and how interesting I found the politics of it all, I thought ‘This could be what I do in my life,’” Schwar said.

According to Schwar, there are many memories that she will fondly look back on after graduation: the kindness of her teachers during AP testing season, the opportunities she got as a member of jazz band and all the fun she had with the Slavic community she created.

“I will always remember going to New York with jazz band and sharing a room with some of my best friends and having to study for an AP Psych test on the plane ride home,” Schwar said. “I sometimes wish I had joined more clubs as an underclassman and tried out for more things because it’s always worth a try to make more memories.”

Achievements Future Plans

Attend University of Colorado Boulder and major in art, minoring in business and French. Hoping to publish a book in the future.

Advice for Freshmen Captain of Academic Decathlon, an editor and illustrator for literary magazine, state competition for culinary arts involving the FCCLA

"Going into my freshmen year, I was really scared. Something I would have done differently is to choose classes that are not necessarily the hardest, but stuff that I enjoy. I feel like there are so many opportunities to do the things that you like and discover."

GAVIN SMITHLAVELLE

Plans Advice for Freshmen Online video editing, learning how to play guitar, fitness, and writing

Planning to continue his editing business while attending El Camino College before transferring to University of California, Los Angeles to major in Business.

"There are all of these ideas and feelings in your first year that you have to be someone else, but the best thing to do is just to fit in your own mold."

PHOTO BY

PHOTO BY TREASURED MOMENTS

Zara Schwar playing scales on clarinet.

PHOTO BY EVAN TEAL

Joey Mertz explains her tutoring process to sophomore Kayli Mai.

PHOTO BY KATHAN MALLYA

Reaching for the stars

Amelia Leto's love for theatre drove her to study aerospace

by Sanaya Bhatt

Staring into the dark space in front of her, 11-year-old Amelia Leto watched with fascination as the Griffith Observatory Planetarium began to display the projection of a life-like solar system all around her, magically transporting her through space and time from an auditorium seat. Taking some of the first steps into her adult life, Leto has committed to University of California, Los Angeles to study aerospace engineering, turning

Leto has also explored theatre, tennis and various other extracurriculars throughout high school, all of which have helped her learn, grow and build her high school experience by making her a more well-rounded student.

“Even though I’ve always been interested in space and engineering, I grew a lot through participating in activities that were new to me and helped me step outside of my comfort zone. In junior year, I joined theatre, and the performances I’ve been in and the community I’ve gained have been some of my favorite memories,” Leto said.

According to Leto, junior year was the year she grew and pushed herself the most, both in academics and other aspects of her life.

“I pushed myself the hardest in my junior year, but I’d say that I also grew the most. Challenging myself academically made last year the hardest, but I also grew more out of my comfort zone and became a better person. I developed a lot of important skills, both socially and academically, and also as a person,” Leto said.

Speaking of hardships she faced throughout high school, especially as an upperclassman,

Leto explains how most of the struggles she faced in junior year were academic, such as dealing with “difficult classes, maintaining a club and balancing a job.”

“It’s been hard, but it’s also allowed me to appreciate my current relationships more and think about them within the context of my whole life. If I’m in an argument with a friend, I’m quick to forgive them, because I’ve realized that in the long run, a small argument won’t matter and we can overcome it,” Leto said.

Speaking on Leto’s journey through high school, her mother, Christine Cotton, shares how her daughter’s interests have evolved and how she’s continued to deepen her passions, both academically and personally.

“It’s been really cool to watch her pursue an interest in theatre, which was completely new to her at the time she started. I’ve also loved seeing her dedication to STEM, through the classes she takes both during the school year and over the summer, but also just how her passion has grown and changed since she was little. Socially, Amelia tries really hard to understand the perspectives of other people and empathize, and she’s always done that, but it has deepened especially in the past couple of years,” Cotton said.

Cotton describes how fulfilling it has been to watch her accomplish her goals and achieve the dreams she has been aspiring

towards for most of her life.

“Getting into UCLA had been Amelia’s goal for a very long time, and it’s a very hard one. Watching her achieve that was a joy I haven’t felt in a lot of years, and it was really a great moment,” Cotton said.

Cotton, as well as Leto’s father, are engineers themselves, and the whole family has dedicated time to Leto’s interest in the aerospace and other sciences.

“Amelia’s always been exposed to engineering, and I’ve always talked to her and her brother about what I do. For her, it’s a blend of a love for engineering, STEM and space and it’s been great to see her get to combine all those things she loves,” Cotton said.

Expanding on her passion for aerospace, Leto explains her lifelong passion for the topic and her hopes for the future.

“I’ve always loved space, especially getting to understand where the universe came from and how much we don’t know. It’s the ‘not knowing’ part that really made me want to learn about it,” Leto said. “For my future, the dream would be being a NASA engineer. Within that, I don’t only want to be a good leader, but I also want to be someone who helps bring people together to achieve something great and learn. Not just to learn from what we study, but also, to learn from each other.”

Amelia Leto after being awarded with a Thespian scholarship. PHOTO COURTESY OF RUHS THEATRE ARTS.

Nguyen leads and arranges National Chinese Honor Society programs

by Ziva Chabot

Since the National Chinese Honor Society (NCHS) started here at Redondo, Kimberly Nguyen has gone from member to treasurer and now stands as the current president. Nguyen didn’t start getting involved with NCHS until her sophomore year. She originally started taking Chinese classes in eighth grade, since her mom spoke Chinese and other people in her family had taken Chinese classes.

“I really loved our Chinese class and our Chinese teacher, and when she mentioned bringing the NCHS to our school, I was super down for it,” Nguyen said. “I wanted to be more involved in the program, and that was one way that I could be more involved.”

Becoming the president of the NCHS required consistent good grades, communication skills and long-term involvement in the program. It also required the board of the program to discuss who fits those roles the best. However, Nguyen did not find these requirements challenging.

“I wouldn’t say it was difficult because I enjoyed it. So it wasn’t really a chore for me. It was something I got to do,” Nguyen said.

In the NCHS, members have meetings and go to other schools for presentations

or activities. One of the activities that the NCHS does is attend other schools’ multicultural events.

“Whenever we do diversity nights, such as Adams diversity night, we work as a big family. We're an entire entity that works on whatever needs to be worked on. Someone's at a station doing an activity, someone's giving out gifts, someone's giving out the food,” Enzo Lim, the Vice President of NCHS, said.

As president, Nguyen organizes the many events and activities that the NCHS runs. She’s presented during RU Ready Night and demonstrated how to roll Chinese glutinous rice balls (also known as tangyuan) at Parras’ diversity night.

“She is one of the best candidates to be the NCHS president of senior year. She's definitely been doing her job,” Lim said.

Lim is not the only one who described the NCHS as a family. Nguyen did too, attributing it to the Chinese program's small size in comparison to other language programs.

“I could probably name everyone in the NCHS. I wouldn't need to look at a list [because of how close everyone is],” Nguyen

said. “For college, I technically only needed two years [in the Chinese program], but I loved it so much, I decided to do it all four years.”

In the future, Nguyen does not plan to major in anything related to Chinese, but that doesn’t mean she’s going to stop being involved with the language. She has plans to join clubs related to Chinese culture, as well as joining clubs related to Vietnamese culture, since she is Vietnamese. As for her actual major, she is planning to focus on computer science. Nguyen still finds what she has learned from her time in the NCHS useful.

“Chinese itself is helpful, no matter what career, because you never know when you're gonna have to work with someone in a different country, and communication is always key,” Nguyen said. “No matter what major or career you're pursuing, you're going to need to know how to direct people and collaborate. You’re always going to need the social skills that come with a leadership position, which is something that being president of NCHS has taught me.”

"I [admire]

Kimberly Nguyen and other members of NCHS pose at Adams Diversity Night. PHOTO COURTSEY OF RUHS CHINESE PROGRAM.

SLAM DUNK

Balancing varsity boys basketball and a heavy course load, Christian Chae's strong work ethic led him to be selected as valedictorian

by Maria Gaggiano

DDetermination can come in different forms, at different times.

For senior Christian Chae, determination began with failing an eighth grade essay which transformed his drive to become valedictorian for the class of 2025.

“My goal wasn’t to become valedictorian, I just wanted to do the best I could. When I failed my essay in Mr. Rappaport’s middle school class, I realized I needed to find my focus. I started to understand that my grades actually matter in high school and I found a lot of motivation through thinking of my future,” Chae said.

pect of excellence, Chae says his time on the basketball team has played a crucial role in his aca demic success.

team here was really tough on me. In the end though, it helped me build my discipline and my focus. I had to learn how to be smart about my time and how to manage it properly. It ended up be ing a really important part of my academic journey and definite ly helped me get to where I am today,” Chae said.

ing up to being valedictorian can be an overwhelming journey, Chae found that the best path to overcome these dif ficult moments was through using his

friends as his support system.

“At first I would say I felt isolated, but as I found my group of friends, it became easier to strive for greatness. We pushed each other academically, but also worked together to do things outside of school and build up our extracurriculars. It’s easier to do these things when you’re with people who make it worth it,” Chae said.

A long time friend of Chae, senior Max Walters, says it was easy to help Chae during stressful times.

“He’s someone who just has his stuff done. More than anything I was impressed that he had time to hang out with us on top of keeping his grades up and being on varsity basketball. I think in a way we supported him by just being his friends because he knows we’ll always be there for him, but in terms of academics, I think it was a lot more of him supporting

Earning the top spot for the graduating class came with its challenges, but Chae believes that the effort was completely worth it.

“I had to sacrifice a lot of my time. Basketball was a lot of time, studying was a lot of time, I always had so much to do and not so much time to do it. I was still able to hang out with my friends a good amount though, I’m glad I didn’t have to compromise everything for the title. My first couple

years, I didn’t hang out outside of school and sports. But towards my junior and senior year it became very important to me that I dedicate some of my time to being with friends and being okay with having fun,” Chae said.

Walters says that even though everyone has their own problems going on, Chae always finds a way to go out and try things while lifting the mood.

“I think that sometimes when people hear the word ‘valedictorian’ they think of someone who stays in a lot, dedicates everything to studying. But really, he’s just a normal person. He likes to go and hang out with friends, he’s kind and respectful and he’s like any other kid his age,” Walters said. “I think he distinguishes himself though by not slipping up when it comes to pressure, he knows how to handle the intensity that comes with being such a well rounded person.”

Chae’s biggest takeaway from high school has not been the valedictorian title or having a high GPA, it has been the moments that he has shared with the people he cares about most.

“You have to surround yourself with the

right people, find a group that makes you feel ready for what's to come,” Chae said. “When I look back in ten years I want to think of all the good times and keep looking towards the future to see what else I can bring into my life.”

Tristan Lu's academic curiosity and dedication to various extracurriculars drove him to become salutatorian

by Emery Min

Earning the title of salutatorian is no small feat. Among students and teachers, senior Tristan Lu is well known for his abilities—not only as a student but also in the various fields that he has chosen to explore. An internationally ranked piano player and the decorated vice president of Science Olympiad, Lu has found success in his passions. Yet the majority of his successes have not resulted

from years of detailed planning, but from a desire to learn.

“I didn’t go into high school aiming to be salutatorian or valedictorian, I just took the classes that I was always interested in and that I thought would challenge me and that ended up getting me here. I really enjoy learning new things, and I always want to keep pushing myself to try new things and figure out if there’s anything I’m missing that I might be interested in,” Lu said.

Throughout high school, Lu has joined various different programs and subsequently found community within them. Starting as a programmer for Beach Cities Robotics, Lu then switched to Science Olympiad his junior year and is also a member of the pit orchestra.

“I’ve made most of my good friends by meeting them in classes or doing clubs with them, like Science Olympiad and robotics. I value those friendships a lot [because] they’re such smart people and we can learn from each other and teach each other,” Lu said.

As a way to challenge himself, Lu takes college classes in computer science and math

which has allowed him to “become more independent.” However, on the occasions that he does need guidance or becomes overwhelmed, Lu turns to his older sister, Amelia Lu, a sophomore at the University of California, Santa Barbara.

“My sister is my biggest supporter. My parents are mostly hands off with what I do, because they trust me to take care of everything. So if I need help with anything emotionally or if I’m stressed out, I’ll call my sister because she’s in college now so she has experience dealing with this stuff and she can talk me through things,” Lu said.

Amelia Lu, who has been able to see Lu grow over the years, attributes his success to both his personality, as well as the environment he grew up in. She cited their parents as a source of inspiration and en couragement for the both of them, and em phasized Lu’s open mindedness in learn ing.

“[Tristan] is the most hardworking person I know. Aside from just being smart, he’s very driven, and he’s tak en a lot of classes at RUHS and outside of RUHS because he’s really in terested in a lot of things, which is su- per cool,” Amelia Lu said. “He’s one of my best friends. I tell him everything and we talk about everything. He supports me too,

he helps me with my homework all of the time.”

In the future, Lu is planning on majoring in computer programming at the University of California, Los Angeles where he hopes to learn as much as he possibly can. Although he does not have any set career plans, he intends on continuing to explore new interests as he has in the past with hobbies such as speedcubing, playing video games and reading.

“No matter what [Tristan] does, I’m sure he will be very admired and respected by everyone around him just because his work ethic is very inspiring,” Amelia Lu said. “We’re always rooting for him and he always works hard so we know that it’s going to pay off.”