May 2016

THE BEST NAME IN SCHOOL NEWS SINCE 1922

THESANMATEOHI Volume XCVI, No. 7

Friday, May 13, 2016

What are Your Summer Plans?

PHOTOS BY ARIEL SEIDMAN

ALL THAT MATEOS

www.thebearcat.net

“I am looking forward to volunteering at San Carlos Elms for the elderly.”

“The whole time I’m going to just be hanging with my friends and family.”

“I am going to spend the summer relaxing with my family and friends”

Improving my physical fitness, working out and trying to get stronger and faster.”

Yuliana Alcaraz, freshman

Murrod Abu Al Hassan, sophomore

Alice Zheng, junior

Dylan Proctor, senior

Zulma Canahui-Bajxac Staff Writer

kicking a man. This caused people to yell and defend the accused woman, showing by videos taken that was not the case. Another Trump supporter decided it was a good idea to wear a Trump hat and walk through the protest. The man began to say racist slurs and punch protesters and then act as if he were responding to a threat.

The protesters took down the fences and jumped over bushes, running towards the hotel entrance to get closer.

Eggs were thrown and the police pushed and grabbed the protesters to keep them away from the hotel. One officer began to help protesters get over the bushes.

As the convention neared its end, so did the rally. One high-level officer began to talk to other policemen about their next actions. Their plan was to begin pushing the protesters away from the Hyatt to disperse the rally.

One student asked the policemen why they hurt the citizens when their duty is to protect them, receiving silence as an answer. Another student stood in front of a policeman with a sign that read, “Capitalism Kills.”

Once the rally began to end, arrests were made. One protester was injured and five were arrested. The rally began

A Note from our Editor-in-Chief We’ve made it, folks. The San Mateo Hi staff proudly presents the last issue of the 2015-2016 newspaper. Every month, we put forth the utmost effort to cover all events relating to school, entertainment, opinions, sports and even more throughout the year, and we sure hope you’ve enjoyed it.

This issue is special in that it covers many­—but by far, not all— notable seniors who’ve contributed to the school community in great ways through their years as a Bearcat. We hope you enjoy, share, and perhaps have a laugh. Congratulations to all who are graduating this year as well—you’ve made it so far, and your hard work has produced tremendous fruits from your labor. I truly believe all of you will end up where you belong.

We Hi staffers have been constantly improving the quality of our paper through photos, writing and design alike; our website (thebearcat.net), our Instagram feed (@SMHSnow) and our Facebook page (fb.com/ SMHSnow) give constant updates on what happens around school.

From the staff’s collective contributions and effort, I’m proud to say that the PBS NewsHour has made the Hi one of its student reporting labs.

Though I, along with many other seniors on the staff, will be parting the pages of the Hi this year, this paper will continue to represent the thoughts, opinions, and voices of our Bearcat community.

It’s extremely difficult for me to imagine my life without being a part of this fantastic, ever-changing newspaper staff. Every year in these four years, I learned (so many new things) and befriended so many people I probably wouldn’t have ever talked to otherwise. This staff has grown to work as a team and become family. And so, I’m grateful for such wonderful staff members, both new and veteran, and how the quality of our paper has improved throughout the year. I can’t wait to see each staffer improve with their experiences. And, I can’t wait to see how the San Mateo Hi will grow. I look forward to it.

Tiffany Lee Editor-in-Chief

Bearcats Attend Anti-Trump Rally Current and former SMHS students joined demonstrators on April 29 outside the Hyatt Regency in Burlingame to protest Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump’s visit there.

“No Hate In The Bay” and “La Raza Unida Jamás Será Vencida,” shouted protesters on the street outside the hotel. Others held posters with slogans like “F*** Trump” or “Dump Trump,” while some held up Mexican flags.

“I don’t like his hateful, racist, homophobic and sexist comments like that Mexican men are rapists,” said a student who did not want to be identified.

Many police departments showed up to keep the rally in control and Trump supporters also came to the event to confront the protesters. The protest started around 8 a.m., only filling one lane of the street at first. But the size of the rally gradually increased, blocking traffic. Fences were put at both sides of the street to prevent cars from hurting the protesters, but protesters began to block Trump supporters from entering the hotel to hear Trump.

One incident involved a Trump supporter accusing a protester of

See TRUMP, page 16

SPECIAL SENIOR ISSUE!

SENIOR PROFILES News .............. 1, 16 Academics ......... 2-3 Sports ............... 4-5 Art ................... 6-7 College Map ...... 8-9 Journalism ...... 10-11 Music .............12-13 Standouts ...... 14-15

Upcoming Events SENIOR ACTIVITY DAY Friday, May 13 during lunch and period 6 on the Football Field SENIOR BOAT DANCE Friday, May 13 from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. in San Francisco UNDERCLASSMEN NIGHT Friday, May 13 from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. in the Quad MUSIC AWARDS POTLUCK Saturday, May 14 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. in the Flex Theater SCHOOL SITE COUNCIL MEETING Monday, May 16 at 3:30 p.m. in the Flex Theater Conference Room ATHLETIC AWARDS Tuesday, May 17 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the Main Gym SENIOR AWARDS NIGHT Wednesday, May 18 from 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. in the PAC PERK RALLY Friday, May 20 during lunch in the Quad PERIOD 1 FINAL (1-7 DAY) Monday, May 23 PERIOD 2-3 FINALS (12:20 DISMISSAL/MINIMUM DAY) Tuesday, May 24 PERIOD 4-5 FINALS (12:20 DISMISSAL/MINIMUM DAY) Wednesday, May 25 PERIOD 6-7 FINALS (12:20 DISMISSAL/MINIMUM DAY) Thursday, May 26 SUMMER BREAK Friday, May 27 to Wednesday, August 17

PBS Publishes SMHS Mountain and Freiberg to Retire Mr. Gerald Mountain, an ELD how their experiences at San Mateo years in education, including eight at Video on Gender and Tech teacher at San Mateo, is ready to pass High have given them the kind of San Mateo, it’s time for a break and Cindy Zhang News Editor

for PBS’s Student Reporting Labs program.

The two-minute video is the last National journalism and media in a series called “Outside the Box,” organization PBS published a video profiling young produced by adults who are San Mateo breaking gender High School’s stereotypes. award-winning j o u r n a l i s m Ms. McCabe, digital photography F e a t u r i n g Mateo program this past teacher and part of the PBS team San High School’s Tuesday, May 10 at SMHS, submitted a winning title Interactive on their website. for a new PBS Student Reporting Coding Club and The video, Labs series. Her title, “Field Trips,” its two founders, about the won San Mateo’s PBS team $100 juniors Katherine gender gap in Arackaparambil Silicon Valley worth of pizza.

Anna and the world Come to the Media Lab (M127) and Zheng, the video of technology, at lunch next Tuesday, May 17 to produced was created in learn more about SMHS Journalism was by Bearcat c o l l a b o r a t i o n and Digital Photography, our j o u r n a lists with PBS after collaboration with PBS and our Ankur Kela, the San Mateo most recent video. And of course, senior, Emma High School to grab a slice of pizza!

Cousineau, journalism senior, and program was Cindy Zhang, junior, and journalism chosen as one of PBS’s Student Reporting Labs earlier this year. adviser Ms. Fergusson.

COME TO THE PBS PIZZA PARTY!

Approximately 100 high schools across the nation have been chosen

To view the video, visit www.pbs. org/newshour/srl/outsidethebox.

the baton after 36 years of teaching. life that would have been difficult, or some change.

“It is now time for me to be a student. even impossible, to achieve in their “I plan on scuba diving, writing a I'm planning to learn how to play countries of birth.” novel, concentrating on my drumming the ukulele and One of his and doing lots of how to paint,” he most gratifying gardening, cooking said. Always an accomplishments and eventually outdoorsman, Mr. was being chosen volunteering— Mountain is also as a Fulbright reading to kids planning on doing Teacher in 1986. at the library or a lot windsurfing Only 20 teachers their elementary around here, Maui were chosen to schools,” he said. and the Columbia live and teach What’s a fond River Gorge.

English in French memory or Retirement high school, and accomplishment will give him he was one of that he is proud of? an opportunity them.

He had Turning bad kids to enjoy his the opportunity into productive ones. hobbies in the offto represent the We do have a great season. “I can go U.S. several times team in Student mountain biking in France. “The Services. We care when the trails worst aspect of for our students,” MR. MOUNTAIN MR. FREIBERG aren't crowded teaching is having said Mr. Freiberg. and snowboarding on days when to live one's life according to the What’s the worst aspect of teaching? seniors go for half price!” laughed Mr. ringing of bells: over 50 years of bells What won’t he miss after 36 years of Mountain. and announcements for me. And, of being in education?

All of his fond memories involve course, the students who have given up “Political baloney and former students who have come back on learning,” he said. unprofessionalism. That’s my story to visit him after several years.

Mr. Howard Freiberg, the dean and I’m sticking to it!”

“These students have shown me at San Mateo High, said that after 36 Courtesy of Yearbook staff

Page 2

Academics

Maggie Phillips:

Brilliant Triple Threat Tiffany Lee Editor-in-Chief A single spotlight shines down on the star as she performs her song in front of

the silent, awestruck audience. Maggie Phillips is born to shine, whether it is in academics, in musicals or in spirit.

Maggie is known to her teachers

Michelle Kwon: Smart and Healthy

Jackie Louie Staff Writer As I walk into the library, I spot Michelle right away. She is the girl so many rave about, and she wears a bright expression on her face. With a healthy salad in one hand, she motions with the other for me to have a seat. Michelle is a person of many talents, including being a superstar on the tennis court, a master Canned Food Drive planner and a prominent voice in rallies and Leadership class.

Ask anyone who knows Michelle and they will tell you about her amazing personality, stellar grades and outstanding accomplishments.

“Michelle is probably one of the most well-rounded, cutest and kindest people I have ever met,” said her friend Kitty Qu, senior. “Even when she tries

Marjorie Miranda LEL Editor

Her outgoing personality can be seen as she sits in one of her favorite teacher’s rooms during lunch or in the quad around her friends.

Kitty Qu is an all-star athlete, but she has the brains as well. This year she is a valedictorian for the senior class meaning she has a perfect unweighted 4.0. She has played varsity soccer at San Mateo for three years now and she has mostly played the position of forward, even though she plays goalkeeper for her soccer club.

“I would say that I go with the flow, I’m really hardworking and also really outgoing,” said Kitty. When asked what inspires her she replied saying “Just seeing everything my friends have also accomplished like that really motivates me to keep improving, they’re also really amazing people it just makes me want to be better.”

“Kitty is one of the brightest students in her class. She is incredibly witty, hardworking and she always tells it like it is. Kitty is not afraid to be herself, which I think is rare among people her age. It’s hard for

Friday, May 13, 2016

THESANMATEOHI

to partake in social trends such as “dabbing” and fails miserably at them (@ double dab), I can always count on her to make me laugh and to be there for me.”

Michelle’s proudest achievement was planning the Canned Food Drive with her partner, Lauren Hayat. “We were under a lot of stress for a long two weeks, but after the drive was over, we felt such an amazing feeling of accomplishment,” she said.

One thing you might not know about Michelle is that she is a health addict. She loves keeping herself wellbalanced in all aspects of her life, one of those being what she eats. She can make a mean smoothie bowl, and claims that it tops any one you can get in a store.

When Michelle isn’t making

and peers for her enthusiastic learning attitude, friendly personality and highly-contagious laugh. She has also starred in nine SMHS plays. “It takes up a lot of my time and it can be super stressful, but it’s also the most fun activity I’m involved in and it’s such an important part of my life,” she said. She is especially proud of her most recent play, And Then There Were None, because it was her first time acting in a serious show after ten years of theatre. “It was something that I didn’t even know if I could do. Plus, it was a really long process of figuring out my character and finding the focus I needed to pull it off.”Maggie is also talented in singing and acting.

Her warm, open personality makes her a beloved member of the Bearcat community as well. “I feel like I

smoothie bowls or collecting cans, you can always catch her on her feet moving around. She wakes up early to get ready for school and volunteers after school in her free time. She also helps out at school functions and plays on the girl’s tennis team. Although she admits she always is a little bit stressed, the stress motivates her to keep going.

Michelle has made a name for herself at SMHS, and is well known among both students and teachers. SMHS counselor Ms. Watson lauds her for being “the club ambassador for Girls Who Code Club, Community Service Commissioner and volunteer worker; interpreter and caretaker; music and sports coach.”

Sharing a name with a famous figure skater is not easy, but Michelle brings honor to her name. “Ever since I was young, I have always said that I wanted to do something amazing so that when people think of the name Michelle Kwon, they think of me,” said Michelle. She doesn’t care so much about fame or success, but just about helping people. Her biggest dream is to just live humbly and serve as many people as she can.

San Mateo High School has left a lasting mark on Michelle. Michelle is extremely grateful to have been a bearcat, and for all the opportunities the school has provided her with. “I feel like because of San Mateo High School, I am who I am today,” said Michelle. “I know that sounds super cheesy, but I think that if it were true for any one person, it would be for me.”

Kitty Qu: Smart and Sporty

me to imagine SMHS without Kitty, because we’ve grown so close over the last four years. I will miss her dearly, especially her sass,” said Ms. Kalinski, history teacher and one of her Kitty’s favorites.

“Kitty has absolutely no boundaries and I think that’s what makes her so weird yet so loveable! She belts out like Mariah Carey and burps like a savage, but she’s also the most caring and reliable friend that anyone could ask for. She always says that I have no friends but deep down we

all know that she’ll always be there to help a homie out. Kitty is the dedicated, Dubs-loving, hungry, allstar Canadian cat that we all need in our lives! Penn doesn’t know what a treasure they’ve got!” laughed senior and good friend Michelle Kwon.

Kitty will attend the University of Pennsylvania in the fall where she will play soccer. She plans to major in operations and information management with a focus in business analytics and finance and may also minor in cognitive science.

form really good relationships with people, and I’m pretty good at being a leader for both my friends and my classmates,” she said.

Both friends and teachers agree with her sentiment. “Maggie has a contagious energy that forces you to smile,” said Paige Stoveland, senior.

As jazz music fills the music room, Maggie moves along with the beat with a bright smile and sings along to the tunes, the accompaniment complimenting her rich voice perfectly.

Recently, Maggie can be found singing with jazz band—something she started only this year. Because jazz is a new style of music for her, singing along to it provides her a challenge, yet a fun way for her to test her voice as well.

“She’s a book guy,” said Emma Cousineau, senior. “I always thought

she couldn’t dance at all, but it turns out she’s very good.” (Check out Maggie’s favorite video, “Book Guy.”) Maggie will attend Tulane University, where she may double major in Political Science and Philosophy. “I know it sounds clichéd, but I want to leave a legacy no matter what I do, whether that be as a senator or a teacher or an actress!”

Maggie will never forget how the spirit and passion at San Mateo has influenced her. “San Mateo has been such an amazing experience. I wasn’t zoned for SMHS, and I can definitely say that transferring here was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made,” she said. “I’ve built some lasting friendships with students and teachers and I have learned so much!” Her

See PHILLIPS, page 16

Paul Gendler: Lifelong Learner

Jessica Fetanatnia Staff Writer At the top of a mountain, looking out at the world, a dog by his side, he takes in the beauty of nature. Paul Gendler, eager for knowledge and adventurous, begins his lifelong journey of learning.

“The first thing that comes to mind when thinking about Paul has to be his unwavering kindness. I’ve known him for two years now and in class, when he’s not helping other students, he’s always focused and thoughtfully analyzing a concept or idea,” said Mr. Thrasher, physics teacher. “Paul is universally liked and respected by students and faculty both for his positive attitude and intellect. He is far wiser than I think he realizes. I wish him the absolute best on the next stage of his life’s journey!”

Paul’s favorite school subjects are physics and Spanish. “Physics because I’m into science and Mr. Thrasher is really funny and a good teacher,” explained Paul. “And Spanish is because I like learning new languages. I am always down to learn new languages,” said Paul, who is taking Spanish and French this year and already speaks Russian.

Although he is already on his way to being quadrilingual, in the future, Paul would like to learn Italian.

“Throughout my four years in high school, the best experience I have had was studying abroad,” Paul said.

He studied in Spain for four weeks in an international camp for 50 students from eight different countries.

“We lived there for four weeks, took Spanish classes and visited different cities,” said Paul. “We went to the beach a lot,” Paul added. He stayed in a school, where there were only eight classrooms for everyone to live in.

Paul also has an interest in traveling.

“My family is Russian and we

have been to Russia a lot over past summers,” Paul said. When he was younger, his family took him on a trip around Europe, but unfortunately he does not remember it too much so he hopes to do that again in his future.

“Languages will help with future traveling,” he explained.

In college Paul is going to be a biology major, “possibly a pre-med focus.”He is planning on attending UC Santa Barbara, and chose the school because of the location: right on the beach in Southern California. “ I like being outside a lot and I am excited to go to college right by a beach” he said. Paul enjoys hiking and being out with nature.

Being valedictorian “required doing homework and staying organized,” said Paul. “It was not easy, but it wasn’t unbearable.”

After school, he likes to go bowling with his friends. “I have gotten so good,” he said, a byproduct of going bowling numerous times this year.

“Paul’s friendship is as dependable and consistent as his love for Subway sandwiches and Taylor Swift,” laughed Jineel Joshi, senior and one of Paul’s friends.

Although Paul’s academics are impeccable, other aspects of him make him unique. “I can bend them back further than the average person,” Paul said, referring to his 10 doublejointed fingers. He can also move his eyebrows weirdly.

“If you have a dog, hit me up,” Paul said, explaining his love for dogs. He used to volunteer at an animal shelter in Burlingame. “I would play with them in their dorms and take them out on walks,” he recalled.

Paul’s last word of advice is to enjoy life. “Even though I spent so much time on school, you should really have fun and live in the moment.”

ALL SENIOR PROFILE PHOTOS TAKEN BY EMMA COUSINEAU AND BREANA PICCHI.

Friday, May 13, 2016

Jack Pope Staff Writer

Engineering Genius

Availing himself of all the academic resources San Mateo has to offer, Geoffrey Ding has studied his way to the top of his class. Along the way, the six-foot tall, Cal-bound senior has received many honors, including The Bearcat Award and being named a nominee for a National Merit Scholar.

“I like making things,” said the future engineering major. With a unique mind, fascinated by innovation, Geoffrey spends his time creating his own products. Some of the things he’s created include minispeakers, power-supply-using items from an old computer and a solar ECG. Geoffrey also plays tennis and recreational basketball.

“Geoffrey is honestly one of the nicest persons ... He’s really talented,

but he also loves to help others,” said his friend, Eric Wang, senior.

At San Mateo, Geoffrey participates in many clubs, including Math Team, Physics Club and Green Team. He is currently the co-president of both Math Team and Physics Club.

“Geoffrey has been instrumental for the Math Team these past four years. He has played a huge role in the success of the Math Team in competitions,” said Ms. Cintas, Math Team adviser. Ms. Hwang, who teaches calculus, added, “Despite his non-laughing, sarcastic exterior, he is the nicest guy deep down.”

Being a scholar, Geoffrey has some advice for the younger ones looking to succeed in high school. “Balance. In high school, you need to have balance and not overstress yourself, which

See DING, page 16

Madeline Wu: Musical Bookworm

Tiffany Lee Editor-in-Chief It’s not too uncommon to see Madeline Wu, lover of reading, with her eyes trained down a book. Novels, manga, fanfiction—you name it, she’s got her eye on it.

Besides knowing how to appreciate a good book, Maddie is also a National Merit Scholar nominee and a top performer in our biotech program, where she landed a coveted internship at Prosetta. “Maddie’s awesome. And if I were to have my own biotech company, she would be someone I would definitely hire or want on my staff,” said Mr. Ikeda, biotech teacher.

Perhaps that’s why she will major in Integrative Biology when she goes to UC Berkeley next year. “The plan is to go to med school,” she said, “but if I can’t, I don’t mind being a nurse.”

But biology isn’t all that Maddie is good at. On top of her phenomenal performance in all her classes, she’s also an avid piano-lover. She made it into Junior Bach, a competitive piano festival, for two years, and participated in Panel, a part of the Certificate of Merit piano exams, for two years as well. Excelling even beyond music and piano, she has competed at nationals for many years with her ballet group too.

“When I listen to music, I don’t hear just the tune and stuff,” she said. “I hear all the instruments, so that’s why music’s been a big part

ACADEMICS

Eric Wang: Dedicated Polymath

Geoffrey Ding:

Ankur Kela Staff Writer

Page 3

THESANMATEOHI

in everything.” Maddie is also good at memorizing things, and often practiced memorizing Bible verses when she was young. But best of all, she is a great friend.

“Maddie is someone who’s genuinely nice to everyone and is always willing to help others out,” said friend and fellow senior, Isadora Gao. “She’s also super smart and dedicated to her studies.”

For relaxation, Maddie sits back with her family members to watch Studio Ghibli movies or simply spends time with them. Though her cousins visiting home from college are loud, her quick and witty conversation easily matches their teasing. She’s also known to take an abundance of naps.

In college, Maddie intends to study gastroenterology—a field focused on internal organs and the digestive system—as she has had her own struggles with irritable bowel syndrome. Her long-term goals include living until a ripe old age and getting a house. “Oh, and getting fit,” she added.

Before she parts San Mateo High, Maddie shares a few pieces of advice for current and prospective students. “For standardized testing, practice makes perfect. You don’t just get good,” she said. “And do as much as you can, even if you’re not like, president of a club, or the top of whatever you’re doing, because you still get the experience.”

With intellectual prowess, Eric Wang derives a math equation that qualifies him for the United States of America Mathematical Olympiad (USAMO). In the dark night of a country that ranks below average in math skills, Eric’s mathematical ability shines like a star.

“Eric has inspired me in mathematics like no student ever has,” said math teacher Ms. Cintas. Eric was one of 264 out of 350,000 mathletes nationwide invited to compete in USAMO. But math isn’t his only skillset.

“Eric is super down-to-earth with reckless enthusiasm (in the best possible way) and he has a great sense of humor.

He’s a person who you can talk to about

deep ideas. He’ll challenge your ideas and open you up to new perspectives.

He’s also a fantastic dancer,” laughed Vivian Liu, senior.

In addition to his academic pursuits, Eric has been playing tennis for three years, and was the president of both the Math Team and the Green Team. He also helped to organize MateoMatics, a competition sponsored by our school which encourages middle school students to compete. Eric coached the Bowditch Middle School Mathcounts team as well. And in his free time, he writes poetry and partakes in scientific research in math and mathematical biology. “I’m obsessively interested in everything, almost to a fault, and not that many people know but I’m

very good at playing stupid musical instruments like the kazoo and the otamatone,” Eric said.

With dexterity and strength, Eric strikes the ball with his racquet with perfect technique, defeating his opponent. Eric’s dedication to tennis proves his skill in the sport.

“He’s a very studious, well-rounded student and I’ll vote for him for governor one day,” said Meshawn Ware, senior. Eric is majoring in symbolic systems and is minoring in creative writing. at Stanford. His love for problem solving and writing plans drives his education in college. After Stanford, he is unsure on a future career. But whatever he chooses, we know he will continue to shine.

Spenser is also part of the San Mateo tennis team, Key Club, Mock Trial, Smash Club and Leadership. “Out of the activities, I particularly enjoyed Mock Trial and Leadership,” said Spenser, who is the ASB Treasurer. “It was interesting to learn about the law in Mock Trial and it gave me a chance to improve my public speaking skills.

Leadership gave me a chance to give back to my community and make the school more accessible to all.”

Spenser’s wide range of interests also includes coding. “I enjoy using programming to complete tasks and solve problems,” said Spenser, who is

taking AP Computer Science. “Right now my major is Computer Science and Engineering. I aspire to form a startup or become a CEO, then maybe go into politics,” continued Spenser, who will be attending UCLA. “He’s come a long way in the journey of high school, starting from the bottom, and ending up, in fact, still at the bottom,” joked Nathan Kruse, senior and Spenser’s friend. “But Spenser is the kind of person you can talk to about politics, chemistry and video games in the same minute.”

And Spenser is indeed a man of many talents. “In my free time, I enjoy playing video games, napping and running. Also studying sevendimensional integrated laser calculus,” smiled Spenser, whose interests are so varied that it isn’t hard to imagine him puzzling over such advanced topics.

Although Spenser’s ready for college, he won’t forget San Mateo.

“I’ll miss my teachers, my classmates, the high school environment and getting free education for four years,” said Spenser. “But not the traffic coming out of the parking lot.”

Spenser Wong:

Leader and Coder

Cindy Zhang News Editor

Slightly bent forward under the weight of his backpack, Spenser Wong heads off to his AP Economics class, just one of many that the accomplished senior is taking this year. “Spenser is smarter than Mr. Ortega and I think we are,” laughed Mr. Teague, history teacher. Although known for his brilliant academic abilities—Spenser’s favorite class, AP Chemistry, is also one of San Mateo’s most challenging—Spenser is much more than just one of the graduating class valedictorians.

Maya Rijhwani Staff Writer

Opening the computer with a swig of cough medicine swishing in her mouth, stomach tossing and turning from the fear of not getting in, Janani Krishnan-Jha doesn’t know what her future holds As the email loads, the word “accepted” forms on the screen, and she spits the cough medicine out onto the computer. Now the computer is broken, but it’s okay, since she’s been accepted into the school of her dreams.

The picture of the six-month-old toddler wearing the Harvard sweater will go with her to the most prestigious university in the United States. That toddler is now an 17-year-old bound for Harvard from San Mateo High.

There are so many words to describe Janani: a singer, Mock Trial captain, a strong academic student and, of course, an upcoming attendee of Harvard University. She recently won the MVP award at the 2016 O. Henry World Pun-Off Championships in Austin, Texas as the youngest Pun-Off awardee in history. It is not only her achievements are that are inspiring, she is kind to everyone she meets.

With smile that radiates across the room, Janani’s personality glows with spirit and positivity. After her “miserable middle school years” she transferred from a private school to San Mateo High. Apart from having excelled academically, Janani became captain of Mock Trial. The team won first place in their district this year.

“Being Mock Trial captain for the last few years what made me want to be a lawyer,” said Janani.

One of Janani’s special talents is singing; she is in the school choir.

Janani plans on minoring in music at Harvard. “My favorite jazz musician of all time (Yosvany Terry), who

Janani KrishnanJha: You Know What Time It is, Bearcats!

also happened to be my mentor this summer at the Stanford Advanced Vocal Institute, is the director-inresidence at Harvard. There is, in my opinion, no better place to study jazz, which I am extremely excited about pursuing in college,” said Janani.

A recent addition to the list of Janani’s achievements is receiving the “Most Likely to be President” title in the 2015-2016 yearbook. It is not surprising Janani won the title, since she leads the debate team and is very outspoken in class. “Janani is social, and she is always on top of all her work. She loves to argue with people about different issues. She does like to take a position and back people down on it,” said Mr. Appleman, AP Environmental Science teacher.

“Janani is the younger sister you never wanted—mostly because you never want to be compared to her,” said her friend Vyjayanti Munagala, senior.

“But she’s also the older sister you wish you had—because, do you even know her? We call her Harvard now that she’s gotten in. You’d think that comes with some self-promotion or vanity, but Janani is none of that. Janani is one of the most humble people you’ll meet.

She’s been through a world of pain and struggle to get where she is, and if anyone deserves to be successful, it’s her. In fact, she deserves better than Harvard, I guarantee that. I’m never going to meet anyone like Janani, I’m 100 percent sure of that. I’m so blessed to call her my best friend. She’s changed my life and I guarantee she’s going to change the world.”

Janani has big plans for her future at college. “I want to go to law school to eventually become a human rights lawyer. Studying a human rights issue I’m passionate about in-depth from different humanities lenses among the greatest legal minds in the country sounds like heaven,” she said.

“I’m most excited about being in an environment where the sole purpose for everyone convening in one place is to learn together. I’m excited about growing as a person, whether that be academically, philosophically or morally. I’m excited.”

Janani’s favorite quote is “What’s past is prologue” from Shakespeare’s The Tempest. It means what comes first sets the tone for what follows. So if Janani was a star at San Mateo High, she is sure to be a star at Harvard.

Page 4

Sports THESANMATEOHI

Isabelle Froerer: Track Triathlete Luiza Velloso Staff Writer

Isabelle Forerer is incredible.

“Incredible” may seem like a generic adjective with no true meaning, but it almost perfectly describes Isabelle.

Although she has faced a wide variety of obstacles, Isabelle is the real-life example of what every human being should aspire to be. She has been through things that would cause most people to change their perspective on life. Isabelle is beyond inspiring to anyone who has the pleasure of meeting her.

Isabelle is not only an athletically accomplished individual, but she is also a leukemia survivor. Leukemia is a type of cancer that causes the bone marrow and other blood forming organs to produce too many white blood cells. “Some of my greatest accomplishments are

beating leukemia, doing my best in track and water polo and being accepted to BYU,” said Isabelle.

She has accomplished things most could never imagine, yet she still manages to stay humble.

“Some of my talents include running, wakeboarding, rock climbing, cleaning and organizing (ha ha), being creative and sports activities,” said Isabelle.

She also enjoys participating in any adventures involving the great outdoors. “I love to do anything outdoors like surfing, rock climbing, hiking, biking, swimming, skiing, camping, fishing, running, adventuring, you name it! I also love reading and doing artwork or crafts and photography,” she said.

While at school Isabelle is usually doing what any other student is. She attends class and can often be found “running around like a mad woman as an office aide,” said Isabelle.

“In my vast experience as an athlete and coach, I’ve met many gifted student-athletes but there are a few ‘standouts.’

Isabelle, in her brief period of time on our track team, created an indelible impression on both coaches and athletes alike. She is gracious, multitalented, with such collegiality towards her teammates.

Always positive, she competes at the highest level and is willing to do what it takes to make our team successful. As a person she is simply an ‘angel incarnate.’ Wherever she goes, her surroundings will be better while in her presence.

She is simply amazing. Isabelle is incredibly deserving. I always try to prohibit myself from using so many superlatives, however, in Isabelle’s case, I can’t garner enough,” said Coach Riley.

Isabelle Froerer has accomplished what even the best of us would consider impossible. She runs, she wakeboards, she rock climbs, she surfs, she hikes, she bikes, she swims, she skis, she fishes and she beat cancer. As she moves on from San Mateo, Isabelle hopes to do a lot of wonderful things with her life. “My goals for the future are to attend college at BYU, serve a mission for my church, graduate from college with a degree of some type and find a job I love. I also really want to get married and have a family and help others who have been through traumatic events like having cancer,” said Isabelle.

SMHS will miss their multitalented track superstar when she heads off to college.

Jessica Kamelamela:

Josh Fakava: Football Fanatic

James Foti Business Manager Sprinting with incredible speed as he clutches the football, Josh gains a solid amount of yards for the San Mateo High School football team.

He stands in the backfield waiting to receive the football and get 10 to 20 yards to lead the offense. The crowd goes crazy as he drives the ball all the way to the end zone for a touchdown.

Joshua Fakava has great talent in athletics. He won most valuable player for San Mateo High’s football team and received Peninsula Athletic League - Lake first team honors as a running back.

He also plays for the volleyball and wrestling teams. He even achieved the highest rank of being a Boy Scout – an Eagle Scout.

“I like to eat a lot (like a horse), workout, make people laugh, be

Erick Sandoval:

Vivacious Volleyballer

Soccer Swag

Ananya Shetty Staff Writer

As you walk into the main gym to see a varsity volleyball game, you’ll see Jessica standing at the back of the court. The ball flies across the net and Jessica digs and passes it to another person who sets and then spikes the ball. The ball drops to the floor, and San Mateo has won the game thanks to Jessica.

Jessica is one of the most hard working athletes at San Mateo.

Her countless achievements in volleyball include being the varsity captain for three years in a row, getting MVP all three years, and All-League Champ two years. She was the libero of the varsity team this year as well as sophomore and junior year. She has received countless honors and recognitions by the coaches and many awards from her club teams.

“I started playing seven years ago,” said Jessica. “I started because my dad told me to play and I really liked the sport, so I kind of stuck with it. My club coach has really helped me become the

athlete that I am today.”

Jessica’s not only a great athlete, but a great friend and person as well. “I’m friends with Jessica because she’s so funny, outgoing and amazing,” said Eva Concepcion, senior. On the court, Jessica is focused; all that matters in that moment is winning the game. However, off the courts, you can often find Jessica in her bed watching Netflix or socializing with friends out in the quad. Off the courts, Jessica is funny, nice and down-to-earth, not at all her aggressive, winning-oriented court personality.

So, what are Jessica’s plans for the future? “I hope to attend a fouryear college and play volleyball there,” she said. “I want to graduate and get a job.” Jessica hopes to play volleyball for a DII or DI college.

True athletes are the ones who put their life into their sport. They love the long practices, the grueling warmups and the hour-long games.

Jessica Kamelamela is a true athlete, and thankfully a true athlete for San Mateo.

Daniel Hidalgo Staff Writer He surveys the soccer field and pays attention to the way the other players move in order to prepare for any attempted goals. As a center defender, Erick can be found in the last line of defense against a rivaling team before reaching the goalkeeper. As an opposing player nears, Erick quickly intercepts the ball and prevents the opposing team from scoring a goal.

When he isn’t on the field, Erick can be found either studying for his next test or hanging out with his friends in the quad during lunch.

With the help of his AVID class, Erick has managed to get through his four years at San Mateo with outstanding grades. In addition to being a leader on the boy’s varsity soccer team, he also helps peer tutor one of Ms. De Rosa’s Sheltered Algebra classes. “My kids look up to him like an older brother. He is

Friday, May 13, 2016

surrounded by them the moment he walks in the door,” said Ms. De Rosa. “He is such a rock star!”

“Erick is a wonderful class participant. He is kind, positive, respectful, always has a cheerful smile and is ready to help others, both teacher and students,” said Ms. Malatesta.

Even though he is on the varsity team, Erick has not always been the superstar that he is on the field. “When I first started playing soccer, I was shy because I lacked confidence, but now as a senior in my second year on the varsity team I can help the younger players because I’ve been in their cleats,” he said.

As he continues to defend his position, he keeps an eye out for the other players to make sure that no one makes it through his line of defense. He sees someone quickly rushing at him and he quickly acts and deflects the ball, proving his

goofy and do good in sports,” said Josh.

“Josh has perservered through many struggles that he has faced,” said Breana Picchi, senior. “He is a very strong guy, mentally and physically.”

Josh gets low to the ground, makes a move and pins his opponent for another win for the wrestling team and himself. Josh plays a large role in San Mateo High’s varsity wrestling team. In his entire wrestling career, he has only lost twice and, in all his wins, it took him less than 10 seconds to take his opponents down.

“Josh runs like a stallion. He has the most heart out of anyone I know,” said George Qobti, junior.

After high school, Josh plans to go on a mission for his Mormon Church. After that, he will attend the College of San Mateo and work his way up from there. leadership role as team captain on the SMHS varsity team.

Even though he may seem busy with soccer and school, he still makes sure he has time for his friends. “Erick is a smart, soccerloving guy who’s very passionate about his school work and soccer.

He’s been a very loyal and respectable friend since I first met him freshman year,” said Emilio Morales, senior.

As a kid, Erick had one important goal that influenced his desire to study architecture at Cal Poly Pomona. Ever since he was a child he has promised his mom that he would build her the house she has always wanted. “Every time I would pass by an empty lot I would think to myself that would be a good place to build a house for my mom,” he said. To Erick, this is an important goal to accomplish.

“Not only is Erick awesome at soccer, but he is also a really good friend. He is always smiling and definitely knows how to brighten someone’s day,” said Breana Picchi. “He seems like the type of guy who knows the whole ChaCha Slide song or maybe even the Cupid Shuffle or the Macarena.

He has amazing work ethic and is always on top of his studies. He was probably here on Senior Ditch Day.” After being at SMHS for four years and moving on to Cal Poly Pomona next fall, it will be a change for him school-wise and also in his environment and all the new people. “The biggest things I’m going to miss are all the memories I created and the friendships I formed with all the amazing people at San Mateo,” Erick said.

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Friday, May 13, 2016

THESANMATEOHI

SPORTS

Tiger Paik:

Aman Sangha:

Basketball(er)

Golf Guru

Rachel Kirkes Web Editor

Aman is simply dressed with her hair pulled back into a loose ponytail and a smile on her face.

As she steps up onto the green, she breathes deeply and gets ready to hit the ball. She determines where her target is, breathes deeply and swings back her club, feeling it hurtling toward the ground as it hits the ball with an echoing ring, and watches it fly through the air and bounce down the course. She walks confidently toward the ball and gets ready to swing again.

Aman has played golf for an impressive nine years of her life, playing both outside school and for the school team. She has played on the San Mateo golf team for her entire high school career, and has enjoyed each year.

In her sophomore year, she was awarded Most Valuable Player and, in her junior year, she was awarded Athlete of the Year. These two awards are very important accomplishments in golf and show how passionate Aman is about golf, as well as pursuing it later in life.

This year, she is still playing golf and loves it.

Along with golf, Aman also used to swim, although she doesn’t anymore. She also enjoys playing

basketball with her friends and her family. Her sister is a huge basketball fan, so she loves to play with her. She is also a staff writer for this year’s journalism class and has written many stories for the newspaper. Always writing great stories in journalism, she does her work quietly and efficiently.

In her free time she loves to hang out with friends, but admits that she can’t very often. “I don’t have much free time because I have so many golf tournaments,” she said. When she does get that extra time, she goes to the movies with her friends or hangs out with her family. Her favorite movie is Forrest Gump and, although she doesn’t have an all time favorite book, she loves Harry Potter.

Aman is extremely passionate about golf and strives to pursue it in her future. “I want to play professional golf, and I will continue to pursue that, but if not, I want to be a sports psychologist,” she said. She will attend San Jose State University next fall hoping to major in Psychology and minor in Kinesiology to further pursue sports psychology education.

A quote that Aman always holds on to is “Don’t say you wish, say you will,” said by retired professional golfer, Arnold Palmer.

Alejandro Alvarez: Soccer Superstar Shelby Staneart Opinion Editor Alejandro Alvarez walks down the halls of San Mateo High carrying a sports bag customized for one of the many sports he plays.

His long, luscious locks, that won him best hair in the senior polls, flow in the wind.

Alejandro is a standout at San Mateo not only for his dedication as an ELD Delegate, but also as a star athlete. When he is not busy with sports or school, he is working at his family’s shop. Being an ELD Delegate is a big job at SMHS with a lot of responsibility behind it. Alejandro is in charge of working with the ELD students to help them get more involved in school activities. What really defines Alejandro is his dedication to sports. Any sport he has played, he has dominated. He has been playing soccer for eleven years.

Alejandro is a dedicated student and athlete. He has been playing sports since he was eight years

old and has a gift for trying and mastering any sport he plays. He is motivated by his parents and his older brother. “My brother is my idol, he’s always been the one to get good grades, while I’ve always been the athlete. He has always been the one to give me that push to do better,” said Alejandro.

“He is one of the best dancers I have ever seen,” said Ms. McCabe.

Alejandro takes orders from customers at his familyowned shop, Snacks. He makes mangoneadas with ease.

“I met Alejandro freshman year, he’s a cool friend to get advice from. He makes the best mangoneadas. He is also the best setter in volleyball. He could use a haircut though,” said Josh Fakava, senior.

Alejandro plans to attend College of San Mateo next year and then transfer to a four-year college later on. He dreams of being able to put his parents in a better economic state.

Lane Mahoney Features Editor

When he isn’t shooting hoops on the basketball court, Tiger is likely organizing Renaissance Leadership events or getting spirited out in the quad at lunch. His involvement with leadership and sports at San Mateo is astounding and admirable.

“I wasn’t originally supposed to go to SMHS and was planning to go to Mills, but because Mills was so impacted at the time, I went to SMHS knowing nobody,” he said.

“It was pretty hard for me to adjust to all the new people, but I quickly got to know a great group of guys through basketball. As a freshman I made the JV team and had one of the best seasons because we went 11-1 and were league champs that year. It was by far one of the most

fun years of basketball I have ever had.”

“My sophomore year I played JV again but was named team captain, and even though we struggled, my leadership skills got a lot better and by the end of the season I was named MVP. I also got moved up to varsity that year for CCS,” said Tiger. “Being captain really helped with my leadership skills and pushed me to try and be more involved with the school, so I applied for Renaissance Leadership and made it onto the Rally Squad my junior year. I learned a lot about myself and others, and I truly started to love SMHS.” Tiger ran for Spirit Commissioner alongside Maggie Phillips as a Junior, but unfortunately lost. “That didn’t stop me from applying and

Taylor Doi:

Dazzling and Dauntless Breana Picchi Photo Editor

A flyball heads toward the outfield and the lean centerfielder dives, catching the ball and bouncing up.

Not only can Taylor Doi be found on the softball field at SMHS, but also playing for her club team, Norcal Blast. Practicing every day, Doi dreams of playing in college.

Taylor has played soccer, softball, basketball, water polo and swimming. Her dedication and love for sports earned her the title of Tri-Sport Athlete. She has

been awarded Offensive Player of the Year for two seasons for her commitment to Softball. Taylor was awarded MVP for her amazing contributions to the water polo team. An amazing accomplishment to achieve for any high school athlete is being awarded “1st Team All League.” Doi received this award for soccer, softball and water polo. Taylor is gifted with the talent of being able to watch an entire Netflix series in one sitting.

“I don’t really have any hidden or special talents. I guess you can say

Bishal Ghosh: Tennis Menace James Foti Business Manager Bishal gets ready to swing his racket, smash the tennis ball and score another point for the San Mateo Bearcats. He has a great talent for tennis.

Bishal Ghosh has been playing

tennis since he was six years old.

Tennis is the only competitive sport he plays, but he does play some other sports just for fun.

“I have played several USTA tournaments and earned a national rank,” he said.

Bishal is a very energetic person

eventually becoming the Health and Beauty Commissioner with my Dyad Courtney, for my senior year,” he said.

“We’ve had our share of good and bad luck working together this year, but he always has my back as a Dyad and as a friend,” said Courtney Wong, senior.

“My senior year has been great, and so was the basketball season.

I was named captain of the varsity team again, but I was hindered by injuries this year, making it a tough season individually. Because of the injuries, I looked to be a really great leader for my teammates and I took a lot of the younger guys under my wing so that they can be ready for their future years here,” Tiger said.

In the near future, Tiger plans to attend CSM and Skyline while also doing Air Force ROTC at Berkeley.

“I did get into a couple schools, but I decided that transferring was the best option for me, so I’m looking to transfer to UCLA or UCSD soon to study Political Science and Anthropology. Hopefully one day I’ll be doing something to help our country.”

“I have also been doing martial arts (TaeKwonDo) outside of school for over 14 years now, and hopefully when I’ve settled down I can take over my dad’s school and continue teaching because I love it,” said Tiger. “Everything is still pretty up in the air for me, but I’m hoping everything works out!” that playing sports is my talent,” said Taylor.

Like many others, Taylor has changed since freshman year. “I have definitely grown as a person, I’ve realized what things are important in everyday life,” Taylor continued. Although she is excited to graduate high school and expand her knowledge at Gettysburg College in Pennsylvania, she is really going to miss the SMHS environment and all the memories created during her time here.

“Taylor Doi is an irreplaceable ray of sunshine. I’m going to cry the day she leaves this campus,” said Mr. Reoutt, one of Taylor’s teachers.

After tearing her ACL during her junior year while playing basketball, Taylor discovered her love for health sciences. While attending Gettysburg she plans on playing for its softball team, fulfilling her longtime goal of playing college softball. She also plans to study health sciences to become a physical therapist. “I appreciated all the help I received during my rehabilitation,” said Taylor. who has the ability to brighten anybody’s day. He is always in a good mood, positive with a smile on his face.

“Bishal is like a ball of sugar-you always need a little bit of him but if you have too much, you will get fat,” said Ankur Kela, senior.

“Bishal is the actual representation of a hard outside with a soft inside.

He’s the type of guy who will hide his heart just to seem like ‘the man.’ But he does not realize that everyone loves him for his core, his emotion - in my opinion, that is the most beautiful thing about Bishal,” said Vyjayanti Munagala, senior.

After high school, Bishal plans to attend Cal Polytechnic State University San Luis Obispo or University of California Santa Cruz. He also plans to try out for the tennis team at either of those schools.

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Page 6

Aria Haghnia: Persian King

Arts THESANMATEOHI

Paige Stoveland:

Girl On Fire Vyjayanti Munagala A&E Editor At the end of most days, between his busy schedule of school and track, you can find Aria in the depths of the leadership room, felt pen in hand, outlining and creating the best prom poster you’ve ever seen. This artist finds his home in everyone’s hearts and eyes through his one-of-a-kind pieces and oneof-a-kind personality.

Aria Haghnia, the visionary behind ASB Publicity, is one of the most gregarious members of the graduating class. This humble senior will be bidding high-school adieu with the rest of his class to make his way into the esteemed California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo.

Joining his sister, Raha, the dynamic duo is planning to take the streets of the desert by (sand) storm. Like every senior leaving high school, Aria’s last stretch consists of butterflies of fear and excitement, all of which he knows his sister had gone through. “She seemed to deal with it all pretty well,” he explained. He hopes he can last through the process also.

Throughout his high school career, Aria engaged himself in a multitude of time-consuming activities, yet always made time for the people in his life, finding the right balance. Adjusting to the diversity of a college campus shouldn’t be hard for him. This soccer player can also be found running the track, winning multiple awards for his talent.

This multi-faceted star takes his winning streak into the classrooms as well; his outstanding grades are another of his many talents.

As a senior, it’s ideal to be known as a role model to those yonger than you, and Aria is just that. “I think he’s the type of person that everyone loves, because it’s so easy to love him,” said Mari. Her claim doesn’t restrict itself to the walls of SMHS. This charmer donates a chunk of his “freetime,” the little that he has, to a volunteer opportunity at a senior facility, working his way into their hearts as well. The sparkle in his eyes as he tells the stories of his experiences highlight the humanity and humility that not many people possess. At this point, his volunteer and community service hours provide no other advantage than enhancing his morality. Is there a senior superlative for most selfless? Because Aria is the one who deserves that title.

If you haven’t gotten to know him yet, I suggest you find him in the halls and say hello. This boy and his blue hair have left one of the most positive impacts on our campus. “He is noble, imaginative, an all-around amazing person, and the list goes on and on,” said Kareem Bdeir, Aria’s best friend.

He’s a jack of all trades and nothing can halt his success.

A student adored by everyone, Aria proves that it is definitely possible to fill the world with a little more kindness. This Bearcat wants to leave his paw-print of positivity, kindness and optimism on this community. “Put your heart into whatever you choose to do,” he advises. Always at the front of his mind, this motto will shape Aria’s future into the best life a motivated, passionate individual can live.

Breana Picchi Photo Editor

Peace Week tends to be the time that truly defines Paige. Her heart is warmed as students from all grades come together, getting out of their comfort zones and swirling together in a cinnamon roll hug.

Most of the time, Paige dances for the SMHS Dance Ensemble, but she can also be found on the softball team during the spring.

“Dance is a sport,” Paige says. She also excels academically. Paige is heading to University of California, Santa Barbara in the fall, hoping to study communications, sociology, and economics. She is also very interested in business, advertising

Ateliano Naufahu: B(ae)-Boy Ananya Shetty Staff Writer San Mateo High should literally be renamed: “The Tiano Show.”

It is almost physically impossible to study here without running into him at least a million times. Tiano is on dance team which means you

Maggie Ek: Our Cinderella Story Luisa Velloso Staff Writer

We can find Maggie socializing with a everyone . “I would hug you, but I’m afraid I might be a little sick,” she said as we started our interview. With Maggie’s bright personality, even a short conversation proved to be very entertaining.

Maggie is an incredibly artistically prosperous student. She has been involved in the arts throughout her entire life. From being cast in Legally Blonde, San Mateo’s improv team and acting in Cats her freshman year, Maggie has had a very successful high school career.

“Some of my talents include dancing, singing, acting and probably cartwheeling. I also have a profound southern accent,” said Maggie. She also enjoys

participating in many activities in her free time. “I bake and read a lot. I also watch a lot of television... I know I shouldn’t. I dance, [sing], and play the piano,” Maggie is also a very productive student. She takes her life and future very seriously, but she still has fun and is always positive.

Maggie takes Advanced Dance and after school, Maggie can either be found at dance or improv rehearsal “I first got to work with Maggie when she was around 11 - she played Pinocchio for me. She has since become the go-to Cinderella girl (her dream character) as an actress, singer and dancer.

Moreover, she has shown inspired talent as a director!” said Mr. Friedman. “She’s a literal princess.

Everything she does is perfect. She works really hard, it’s amazing.

and marketing. “The campus is beautiful, they have a great learning environment, and there is also a good balance between academics and fun,” she said.

“Paige is a model bearcat. She is a scholar, performer, dancer, athlete, ASB representative, and more. What a talented lady! She has accomplished so much in four years at San Mateo and deserves to be recognized,” said Ms. DeRosa.

Martin Ortega agrees, adding that “she is so passionate about life, but super sensitive to the human condition.” Over the last four years, Paige not only ‘glowed up,’ but learned how to be a leader. She not only talks the talk, but also walks

She stretches for hours everyday and does so much singing, and she’s very inspiring to me. Her ability to focus on what she wants is incredible,” said Laurel Schuster.

As Maggie graduates from SMHS this year, she will not only be leaving the school, but many of her favorite memories. Some of her greatest memories at San Mateo High School include the New York dance trip and dancing with Randy Skinner. Some of Maggie’s hopes for the future include working on Broadway or West End in London.

“Not a lot of people know this about me but I have a secret desire to travel to space,” said Maggie.

She would also like to be in a sitcom, but her ultimate dream is to voice a Disney princess.

can find him at every single football and basketball game. A dancer, singer and actor, Tiano could also be spotted at any performance, showcase, play or musical.

Tiano is one of the most hardworking people at San Mateo High. He was apart of several dances in the school’s biggest dance

Friday, May 13, 2016

the walk. She says that most of the time she fakes it until she makes it, and from the looks on how she is doing, that life motto is working for her. She has too many amazing memories at SMHS to pick one specific moment, but she “really enjoyed leadership events.”

Like others, Paige is sad to leave SMHS, but is excited to see what the future holds. During her time here, she has not only been a large contributor to the drama program, but also to athletics, playing on varsity softball since freshman year. Some of her accomplishments include being varsity softball captain during her senior year and receiving the title of First Team All League and Defensive Player twice. She also has been awarded Best Actress and has participated in the SMHS Dance program for the last four years.

“Someone at SMHS who has highly impacted me is Mrs. Tribuzi.

She has taught me that the worst thing in life someone can say is no, so go for it. Another person who has helped me is Ms. Cintas,” she shared.

Paige is excited to further her education, and possibly move to the east coast in a couple of years.

Paige has been an outstanding asset in the bearcat community, and her shoes will be tough to fill. showcase, performed in many of the school musicals, held the lead role in “Nice Work If You Can Get It!,” busted a move on dance team, and danced with Advanced Dance at the Little Big Game. Even though he is this accomplished, Tiano is very down-to-earth. He is funny and very welcoming. That’s why Tiano deserves to be honored.

“I am really passionate about anything I put my mind to,” said Tiano. “I just started dance last year and everything just rushed in so fast and I had to learn everything so quickly.” This was a very eyeopening experience for Tiano. It helped him redirect his life and figure out where he was going for the future. It hasn’t always been a smooth ride for Tiano, though.

He has spent countless nights working on choreography, trying to memorize dance steps for his performances.

See NAUFAHU, Page 16

Noah Bender:

Thoughtfully Outrageous

Sienna Ropert Staff Writer

Noah Bender is outrageous. He’s bold, silly, over-the-top, crazy and maybe even a little bit odd. But he’s all those things in the most

incredible, inspiring, and even thoughtful way. “I don't really know how to do anything halfway,” he told me after revealing a David Letterman quote, “anything worth

See BENDER, Page 7

Friday, May 13, 2016 From BENDER, Page 6 doing is worth overdoing,” as his senior quote for the yearbook.

His positivity, drive, passion and incredible uniqueness has shaped his personality, but perhaps even more so, his onstage presence.

You might have seen Noah in a play or two or three, or eleven.

With a career in performing arts that began when he was only seven years old, Noah is performanceobsessed. “I've auditioned for every one, the only one I wasn't in was my sophomore year spring play,” he said. Noah’s presence on stage is unusual for such a young actor. It is clear that he puts huge amounts of effort into becoming his characters. He always manages to capture the audience’s attention with his mature acting skills, over-the-top personalities, and attention to detail. “Noah has consistently shown a wonderful comic ability and a thoughtful approach to performance,” said Musical theater teacher and SMHS production director Brad Friedman.

Noah performs comedically, but thoughtfully.

Noah’s super proud of himself, and rightfully so, for being in so many productions and “just sort of staying alive through all of them.”

Devoting such a large amount of time (4-6 days a week for 3 hours a night) to so many productions really made him a better student and time-manager, he said. “Noah will succeed anywhere because he's secretly an amazing prioritizer and time manager--he knows what he cares about and devotes as much time as he can to it,” said senior Laurel Schuster, one of Noah’s best friends. Noah’s commitment to what he loves as well as his unique personality and approach to life

are what differentiated him when applying to Emerson College in Boston, where he will attend next year.

When he’s not reading about men’s fashion, bragging about his Prius, fulfilling his duties as the “unofficial bball guy,” or keeping up with 36 podcasts on one and a half speed, Noah likes to write and record comedy raps. “I've written a few of those and I’ve recorded a few of those with Nathan Kruse. We're a rap duo called Boyz 2 Guyz. My rap name is L.L. Cool Jew,” he said with a smirk. Outrageous, right?

But what’s even more outrageous is that one of these raps was actually the deciding factor in his acceptance into Emerson. “They have a new program that is starting next year that's right up my alley.

It's a BFA in Comedic Arts which is all classes in writing, production and performance. I had to send in a portfolio and I didn't really feel like being the guy who sent in some stand up or some improv or something that I'd written because I felt like everyone would do that, so I sent in a song that I wrote and recorded about how great it is to get your haircut in the morning and they accepted me to that,” he said.

Noah’s ideal career would be to create, write and star in his own sitcom or sketch show and he is confident that this program is going to help get him there, or at least push him in the right direction. He’s really excited that the program is the first of its kind and, as a member of the pioneer class– “they don't want to call us guinea pigs”– he’ll be one of only 24 people with a BFA in Comedic Arts on their resume.

He was also really interested in the program because of how specific and customized it was.

Hana Okai:

Ballerina Bearcat Ananya Iyer Staff Writer If she’s not choreographing a new Dance Team performance, Hana Okai is planning one of the four annual school dances or teaching dance to little kids after school.

Dance has been a huge part of Hana’s life since she was 4 years old, when she began ballet classes.

She may seem extremely extroverted when she dances, but, in reality, Hana is a rather reserved person. “In classes, I’m usually very quiet. I’m kind of introverted, which can often come off as mean to people. I’m just very shy. I don’t usually like to project myself out to people verbally, so the way that I do that is through dance,” she said. Hana’s passion for the art is clearly visible as she communicates with her audience in a way regular words cannot.

Hana is actively involved in Leadership because she values the importance in making sure that all the students at SMHS are given the chance to have a really good experience at school. “I really try to voice my opinions,” she said.

Hana ran for the position of Dance Commissioner last year, something totally out of her comfort zone.

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THESANMATEOHI

Winning that position and being a part of the Leadership class taught her to take feedback from other students and really consider what other people would like. It makes her extremely happy to be a part of something that gives back to the school.

Hana is one of the captains of the SMHS Dance Team, which she’s been a member of for all four years. “All of my life, I’ve done ballet, jazz and lyrical dance, but I had never experienced hip-hop, so being on Dance Team was me going out of my comfort zone.

I really love doing it,” she said.

Hana describes herself as the strict captain who keeps everyone in check. “The team calls me mom!” she exclaimed. “Hana is a great role model who gives great advice, is fun to be around, and can make you laugh,” said Rene Iriartborde, sophomore and a fellow member.

When it comes to Dance Team, Hana is extremely committed to making sure everyone’s working hard to do their absolute best.

“Hana is someone who isn’t afraid to go hard on you sometimes when you need it!” said Rene.

See OKAI, Page 16

Jessica Fetanatnia Staff Writer With pen and paper in front of him, Joseph Dickenson produces dynamic creations that come to life with his great attention to detail. If you’ve sat near him in class you have undoubtedly witnessed his incredible doodling talent. “I doodle on everything I turn in ever; I usually try to avoid stuff that’s important,” he said.

Joseph is finishing up four years of high school chock full of art classes, starting with drawing 1-2 in freshman year and ending with a drawing-focused AP Art class. His interest in art began at age four or five. In middle school, there was only one art class and he took it at San Mateo, Joseph has impressively taken six art classes.

“His drawings have a unique imagination, exploring the realms of a synthetic post apocalypticfuture with extraordinary detail,” said Ms. Stock, art teacher. In his future, art will stay more as a hobby. “I was originally going to do art as a career, but I figured at one point it wasn’t as fun being told

Arts

how much art to do and having to pump it out quickly, so I decided against it eventually,” he said.

Joseph Dickinson: Art Attacker

Being in the AP Art class and having to complete 12 art works a semester, a concentration piece, and having to do the same thing over and over, Joseph’s eyes were opened to see that art as a career is not his preference.

“Joseph is the Jimi Hendrix of art, he is pretty good. And sometimes he’s not a bad person” said Joseph’s friend, Sam Philliber. There is more to Joseph than his artistic talent.

He likes to swim, is interested in learning German or Russian,

Chelsea Young: Old Time Dancer Jackie Louie Staff Writer Even though many things call for her attention, Chelsea always stays grounded in one thing: dance.

You can catch Chelsea moving to the beat of the music with the Dance Team, in the Advanced Dance Class or even just to her own tune. Whenever I see Chelsea, she always gives me a bubbly and bright smile. Her charm and talent is known immediately by anyone who comes across her, completing the star we call Chelsea Young.

“Chelsea is amazing. She is sweet, funny and kind. She is a beautiful student and a lovely dancer,” said her History teacher, Mrs. Moore.

“She makes teaching fun, and is

someone who always wants to learn. I just love her.”

Chelsea’s stability comes from her passion for dance. She is known as one of the best dancers at San Mateo High School, although it wasn’t always that way. Chelsea started dancing by just jamming along to whatever music she heard on the radio. “Four years ago, I would be SO scared to take a dance class, but now when I go out and take dance workshops next to 30 other dancers, I can focus on the important things like growing as a dancer rather than worrying about what other people think of me,” Chelsea said.

If she could go back in time and change something about her school

Sarah Wisnom: The Artsy Fartsy Vyjayanti Munagala A&E Editor

Walk into the art gallery before, during, and after school, you’ll find her there- with paint smeared across her cheek, green and purple stains on her old denim overalls, hands steady holding her brush.

Sarah Wisnom, one of San Mateo’s best artists, has taken the art department by storm. “Sarah likes to experiment with media and she’s very creative and experimental

with whatever she creates. That causes her to really take things in a different way. She tries so many different things; she’s quite the experimenter: as an artist. And that’s ones of the things we like to find– somebody that thinks outside the box,” says Ms. Yapp, one of her admiring art teachers. You can see her work all over the gallery and spread out around campus as art fair posters and library embellishments.

She plans to attend the School of

and has a passion for history.

Surprisingly, he is not a huge fan of art history, finding it boring and only enjoying it on occasion. Joseph will major in History in college, with hopes of becoming a history teacher. He would come back to teach here if the housing wasn’t so expensive. He’s not willing to have the same “ridiculous” commutes that some teachers at San Mateo face, he said.

He is deciding between two small liberal Arts colleges: Chapman and Willamette. Having a tough time deciding between the two because they are very similar, the deal breaker might be the weather. For Joseph, being English, Chapman in LA may be too hot in comparison to Willamette in rainy Oregon. The San Mateo Arts program has helped him improve “especially in the digital arts program,” he said. Art has always been “kind of like a stress reliever” for him and his message to everyone would be, “if you are doing art, just have fun.” career, Chelsea says it would be her time management. “If I could redo high school, I would have had better time management and not stress over little things so that I could get back like the 1,000 hours of sleep I lost. I wish I was exaggerating that number,” exclaims Chelsea. She also leaves a note for her seventh grade self, telling her to go to sleep earlier and fix her crazy sleep schedule.

Even though Chelsea wishes she could change some things from her past, she also looks forward to the future. She can’t wait to dive out of her comfort zone and into the world of college, joining dance teams and pondering being an Education major, a choice she first thought about after taking Ms. Johnson’s AP Psychology class.

The class made her think about the complicated system of children’s brains, and how much she loves working with kids.

In addition to being an amazing dancer, Chelsea is also an incredible human being. “Chelsea has a contagious smile and laugh, and she’s literally one of the kindest

See YOUNG, Page 16 the Art Institute of Chicago. “It’s a wonderful city; I love it there,” she says.

The two-time winner of the Best 3D Artist award at the San Mateo Arts Fair has always been a humble addition to the creative community of the city. Last year, she spent her award money on her lost retainers. But her room, instead of the expected trophies and plaques, contains little trinkets reflecting her appreciative personality. Her art is just as inspiring as she is and she spends an equal amount of effort on her color choices as she does on academic and artistic success.

“She’s always unapologetically herself and that always inspires me to be unapologetically me,” says one of her best friends, Alex Arbisman, senior.

She’s out to change the world, one masterpiece at the time.

Friday, May 13, 2016

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COLLEGE MAP

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OFF T

SPREAD BY TIFFANY LEE GRAPHICS BY ELLEN ZHU, JESSICA FETANATNIA AND RACHEL KIRKES CORNISH COLLEGE OF THE ARTS Ateliano Naufahu

THE EVERGREEN STATE COLLEGE Emma Cousineau

UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON Jessie Chen Brendan Ha Stephanie Wan

MONTANA STATE UNIVERSITY Breana Picchi

REED COLLEGE Laurel Schuster

LINFIELD COLLEGE Edward Liu

CHICO STATE

UNIVERSITY OF NEVADA, RENO

Aubra Gutierrez Valerie Mihalek

Eva Concepcion

UC DAVIS

Maximilian Chen

SACRAMENTO STATE

OCCIDENTAL Leslie Fernandez COLLEGE CULINARY INSTITUTE Ian Jan OF AMERICA Christian Legarda

SONOMA STATE

ST. MARY’S

NOTRE DAME DE NAMUR UNIVERSITY Jennifer Slowey Holeva Finau Dulce Contreras

SFSU

UNIVESITY OF ARIZONA

Maggie Chang Rachel Rose Aliya Rosove Apisara Thaweethamcharoen Fariba Mirkooshesh Mark Rofael SANTA CLARA UNIVERSITY OF Brenda Yau UC BERKELEY UNIVERSITY SAN FRANCISCO Steven Louie Rosalyn Jeffries Tiffany Lee Janet Chen GURNICK Kevin Xu Katia Li Rakesh Raju Skanda Suresh ACADEMY OF Stephanie Zhi CHABOT UC SANTA CRUZ MEDICAL ARTS Vivian Liu COLLEGE Sarah Nicole Gabarra Michelle Kwon Nicholas Sodermans Fabiola Rivera Alyssa Collins UC MERCED Ian Wong Madeline Wu STANFORD Chloe de Guzman COGSWELL Kareem Bdeir Geoffrey Ding Eric Wang COLLEGE Lorenzo Relos Tara Nash Sofia Shteyngolts Lisa Elliott Sean Chen Kevin Jesubalan CHAPMAN SJSU LOYOLA MARYMOUNT Victoria Whittle CAL POLY SLO UNIVERSITY UNIVERSITY Lauryn Ko Andy Kwong Joseph Dickinson Isadora Gao UC RIVERSIDE Aria Haghnia Alice Huang Lauren Madden Ryan Hong Gianna Raucher Bradley Kwan Dani del Rosario Mayur Ejjalaghatta Matthew Huang Aman Sangha Wakana Seo UCLA Kylie Chiu Anjelika Grate Jennifer Nunez Nathan March Bishal Ghosh Jodie Lewis Ginny Yao Elina Yokemura Justin To Spenser Wong Bradley Kwan Kireeti Dunna Devin O’Guinn UC SANTA Sparsh Pradhan Leslie Fernandez Pablo Robles Eloisa Leiva

BARBARA

Ankur Kela Jason Jackson Paul Gendler Brad Young Nathan Kruse Paige Stoveland

Akhila Palakodaty Bailey Fadrilan Manasa Palakodaty

AMERICAN MUSICAL AND DRAMATIC ACADEMY Jose Pizarro

SAN DIEGO STATE UC SAN DIEGO Alyssa Lew Jineel Joshi Jenna Ohira Chelsea Young Mari Kojima Wesley Kwan

Tzu Chieh Yu

Friday, May 13, 2016

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TO...

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COLLEGE MAP NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY Lily Qian Kay Chow

SUNY POTSDAM BOSTON UNIVERSITY Leila Schaumkel

Courtney Wong

INDIANA Julia Sun NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY UNIVERSITY Jillian Osheroff CARNEGIE MELLON Ashley Melendez UNIVERSITY NEW YORK Nick Waddington Katherine Choy Tiger Jia

ROSE-HULMAN INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY

HARVARD

Janani Krishnan-Jha

UNIVERSITY Sophia Kapoor Hannah Rim

EMERSON COLLEGE Noah Bender

Phalgun Krishna

Joseph Veglak

UNIVERSITY OF IOWA

BOSTON COLLEGE Kyle Tan Jonathan Lin

BALDWIN WALLACE UNIVERSITY

Vyjayanti Munagala

RUTGERS UNIVERSITY

Avani Hamilton

Lisa Wu

CORNELL UNIVERSITY Sam Philliber

UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA

TOWSON UNIVERSITY

Kitty Qu

Raisa Magro

GETTYSBURG COLLEGE Taylor Doi

HIGH POINT UNIVERSITY Abigail Knudson

RHODES COLLEGE Jessica Frankl

TULANE UNIVERSITY Maggie Phillips

WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY Justine Xi

UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA Hannah Mefford

UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA Deanna Chan Marjorie Miranda

COLLEGE OF SAN MATEO Amber Chen Alejandro Alvarez Andrea Guzman Ariana Briseno Arleth Ornelas Armando Avina Briany Yamilet Lopez Rodas Casey Alegria Daniel Hidalgo Bonilla Daniel Lipparoni Esmeralda Reynosa Lozano Giovani Sanchez Espinoza Haley Kumar Jimmy Celestino Jocelyn Dulanto Joshua Fakava

Layth Abu Al Hassan Luis Miranda Luke Klaiber Maria Pulido Cardenas Meletuna Pikula Milena Belluomini Natalia Rojas Nhoylani Malaluan Pedro Valdivia Philomene Alberth Bulawan Shelby Staneart Susanna Gonzalez Martinez Tyler Nakakura Victoria Sanchez-Orozco Yolanda Sanchez

CAĂ‘ADA COLLEGE Israel Zarco Amanda Corsetti Isabel Barajas

SKYLINE COLLEGE Jessica Kamelamela Justin Yu

U.S. MARINE CORPS Noelle Quan Dante Mantovan Willie Tang Joshua Lo

KEIO UNIVERSITY (Japan) Hana Okai

PARIS COLLEGE OF ART (France) Nina Kinkade

Journalism

Page 10

Tiffany Lee: Queen of

Journalism Maya Rijhwani

Staff Writer

The San Mateo v. Carlmont tennis match was a tough one. The scores were tied and the tension was strong. Luckily, San Mateo had one of its finest stars playing that game. Tiffany Lee, team captain, was one of the last ones playing and, with her determination and perseverance, led her team to a win.

AA tennis captain, Red Cross Club president and volunteer, pianist and graphic designer, Tiffany has many talents. She passed all ABRSM piano exam levels by her sophomore year, ABRSM being the UK’s largest music education body.

In 2015, she won the President’s Volunteer Service Award, in gold.

Apart from her school activities, Tiffany is a certified volunteer and instructor in CPR, first aid and disaster preparedness instructor for the Red Cross. “When I was younger, there was an earthquake in China called Sichuan,” said Tiffany. “ I was really worried for the people there. On TV I saw classes helping out and it was cool since they were international volunteers. I was inspired, and I joined the Red Cross in high school. It was super cool, I met a lot of people from different schools, and I learned so much.”

During school hours, Tiffany is the Editor-in-Chief of SMHS’ Journalism staff. She excels at leading the class and managing

staff writers as well as editors.

“I have done Journalism for four years and each year I have been a different editor. In Freshman year I was Copy Editor, Sophomore year I was Sports Editor, and last year I was Features Editor. It’s been really cool seeing all the different stories you get from each section and I love designing and creating meaningful content,” said Tiffany.

“Tiffany is a warm and wonderful human being with great skills and a great personality. She so grounded – no drama. And she gets the job done. We’ve been truly blessed to have her at the helm of the newspaper this year,” said Mrs. Fergusson, Journalism adviser.

“Tiffany is an amazing role model,” said Ellen Zhu, Tiffany’s friend and classmate. “She is great at tennis and is generally a really cool person. She encourages you when you are down and she gives people good pointers.”

Next fall, Tiffany plans to attend Santa Clara University where she will major in computer science.

“I want to do something where I can combine computer science and animation, a career related to virtual reality. I’m definitely looking forward to meeting more people with the same interests as me and also moving in the dorms,” said Tiffany.

Breana Picchi makes jokes and laughs while she scrolls through photos on her computer screen to select the best ones. She socializes with her friends and peers while she works. With innate confidence and mad skills, Breana can be quietly focused, but also the life of the class.

As one of photo editors in Journalism class, Breana’s talent can be seen on the pages of the San Mateo Hi, and even in the pages of the yearbook. She won “Best Sports Photo” from the SF Peninsula Press Club her sophomore year, but

Marjorie Miranda: Unofficial Soccer Mom Ellen Zhu Graphics Editor

As you walk into the room, the first person you see is the ambitious Marjorie Miranda, typing away furiously. Quickly yet subtly, she glances at her phone as it illuminates with a never-ending strand of updates, tweets, messages and current events alerts. Swiftly, she opens a document and jots down the possible story articles and gazes dreamily at the face of her idol, the best soccer player in the world, Lionel Messi.

Since her first day at San Mateo High School, Marjorie has loved it. “My favorite thing about San Mateo is the diversity. We all love each other and there is no drama,” said Marjorie. However, her first years were a challenge.

“English was my second language, so when I came to San Mateo, I knew English but my writing skills weren’t as good,” said Marjorie. “I didn’t trust in myself at first, but I started to do better and now my English is good.”

Marjorie is someone who is very connected the the Latino and ELD (English Language Development) community. “I became a tutor last year for the ELD students and became the ELD delegate and promoted events for them to go to,” she explains. She helps the ELD students understand and complete their homework. She is also very involved in other school activities and won the senior class Canned Food Drive. Alejandro and Marjorie were the ambassadors for the Senior ELD tutorial that won this year’s canned food drive.

Marjorie has also been the La Esquina Latina Editor over the past two years for the newspaper, The San Mateo Hi.

Widely known as “that writer,” Marjorie will be missing the Bearcat community, “I’m going to miss journalism and my peeps.”

Marjorie considers the journalism class to be the biggest motivator and influence for her goal of becoming a reporter.

Always aiming high,

Jillian Osheroff: Boba Enthusiast

Breana Picchi: Master of Photography

Zulma Canahui-Bajxac Staff Writer

Friday, May 13, 2016

THESANMATEOHI

Jillian Osheroff Sports Editor

taking pictures isn’t all she can do.

“Breana is a very sweet person who genuinely cares about a lot of people, but eats all of my food all the time. Definitely include that she eats my food,” said Lane with a laugh. “She is a very strong person who’s been through a lot, but still manages to have a good outlook on everything.”

Besides photographing sports, Breana likes playing them. “I love playing softball and taking sports photos” Breana said. “I like volunteering with children; I donate towards the hospital in San Francisco every winter season. I volunteer for a disabled children’s soccer program.”

Jamming out to one of her many Spotify playlists while photoshopping new creations to hang up on the wall, Jillian Osheroff is in the zone in the Media Lab. In her typical outfit of Rainbow flip-flops, leggings, and a college sweatshirt, she sits hunched over at her desk, only looking away from the computer screen to smile at peers walking into her second home.

“I started my freshman year with the goal of meeting as many people as I could and making a lasting impact on our school before graduation. If it were at all possible, I would’ve liked to become friends with all 1,600 students, but I’m still proud of how far I’ve come and how much I’ve grown during the past four years,” said Jillian.

As the Sports Editor and former Opinion Editor of the San Mateo Hi, three-time Jew Crew president, Feminist Club co-president, Girl

Up Club treasurer, former Key Club vice president, three-time CFD Representative, beloved friend to many, and more, I think it’s safe to say that she has completed her mission.

“I used to say that I am one in a million, mainly because it rhymed with my name. But then I realized that meant there were about 7,000 other people just like me, so I stopped saying it,” she said with a laugh. On the move with her phone in hand, Jillian wanders around school at lunch looking for a student or staffulty member to interview. During her sophomore year, Jillian created Humans of San Mateo High, a Facebook page featuring community members through quotes and photos. Based on Humans of New York, she hoped to create somewhat of a ‘personal yearbook’ that could highlight people on campus. “What makes this school so special is its inhabitants. Every weekday, we walk by each other in the halls without saying a word, and there

Miranda will attend the University of Tampa where she will major in communication sports media and journalism; after all, she is an over achieving journalist. “I saw him [Lionel Messi] for the first time when I was 11. I always wanted to be a journalist, but I didn’t know what I wanted to report on until I saw him. I want to be a sports broadcaster or sports writer. I always loved the idea of interviewing my favorite sports star or just being at those type of events.

Any type of sporting events,” she explains. “My dream is to interview Messi or meet any legendary soccer player, (FC Barcelona ) and move to Spain.”

Ms. McMullen describes her favorite student as “vocal with a flare for the dramatic.” Best friend Shelby Staneart also says, “She makes some questionable life decisions and it’s hard not to judge her sometimes, but deep down, my life wouldn’t be the same without my little peruvian puff pepper,” said best friend Shelby Staneart, senior.

For all future bearcats, Marjorie advises, “be involved in all school activities. One regret I have is not getting to know my peers. I regret not participating more freshman and sophomore year. Enjoy it while it lasts.

Four years went by so quick. I remember how I was a sophomore in journalism and now we’re here, one month before school ends.

Enjoy every second of your life, take advantage of everything, and most of all, persevere.”

are few things more unfortunate than missing out on somebody who has the potential to change your life. I feel incredibly lucky to have met so many wonderful humans throughout this process,” said Jillian. With over 900 likes and over 220 people’s stories shared, she has created a legacy that she will pass on to the SMHS Journalism class.

“It’s been such a pleasure getting to know Jillian this year as she proved to be a very compassionate and hardworking student. I look forward to seeing what the future holds for her and wish her all the best,” shared Jillian’s math teacher, Ms. Ofrecio.

“Jillian is the kind of person who can light up a room when she walks in. She is very accepting, loving, friendly, funny, and considerate.

Her intent is always pure and real. She is someone you keep close and don’t take for granted, because you’ll never meet someone as special as her ever again,” said Billy Lee, Jillian’s friend and yearbook classmate.

Jillian is both excited and anxious for life after high school graduation.

“I’m trying to stay chill, but there are so many things I want to do in so little time.” she said. Jillian is headed off to Indiana University, where she plans on majoring in International Studies and pursuing talents other than procrastination.

Whether she’s traveling the world, running her own non-profit organization, or releasing a bestselling book, it is clear that Jillian is ready to take the world by storm.

Friday, May 13 , 2016

Shelby Staneart: Crazy Cat Lady

Jillian Osheroff Sports Editor *Set to the tune of The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air theme song* Now, this is a story all about how Her life got flipped-turned upside down And I’d like to take a minute Just sit, my friend I’ll tell you how she became the queen of a town called SM In the cuts of Fresno born and

raised On the playground was where she spent most of her days Chillin’ out snackin’ relaxin’ all cool And all playing some soccer outside of the school When a couple of guys who were up to no good Started doing drugs in her neighborhood She was too young to know and

Emma Cousineau: Meme Queen Aman Sangha Staff Writer As you walk in the room, you see the fierce Emma Cousineau dressed in a very nice outfit, and her hair down. She looks at the fantastic pictures that she has taken from many different perspectives from many different people. She looks hard at work and is very happy about the work she is doing.

Emma is unique in her work in journalism because she is hardworking, caring and very responsible. She has been very successful in writing stories, taking pictures and being herself. Emma has been the most wonderful,

loving person you will ever meet.

Her work in Journalism has been a pleasure to read and the pictures she takes are amazing to see.

Emma is a 17-year-old who is edgy and opinionated and cherishes her work in photography. She loves to listen to the band’s Brand New, The Antlers, The Cure, and Bad Gal Riri. Emma also loves to read books and write many pieces for school and outside of school as well. Her go-to food is sushi and all types of noodles, she doesn’t like to discriminate. Emma is a girl who isn’t afraid from doing what she loves to do and she inspires many people with herself and her hard

James Foti: Fresh

Outta Connecticut Jack Pope Staff Writer James swings with all his might to secure another run for the San Mateo High School varsity baseball team. He stands in the outfield, calm and ready to get another out to terminate the winning, and the whole crowd grows loud in anticipation to see another victory for San Mateo High’s, James Foti.

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James has an outstanding taste in music, being the second chair for the school’s cello department. James plays varsity football, basketball and baseball. He is a renowned artist as well. This is his first year at San Mateo after he moved here from Connecticut, but he has since then made a mark on SMHS. According to him, California is way better than Connecticut.

“My talents are music, art and

her mom got scared She said ‘You’re movin’ with your bro and kitty. Be prepared’ She tried to fit in at school day after day But she couldn’t be who she wasn’t just to stay She started being herself and had a good feelin’.

She put her cat shirt on and said, ‘Ayye, now I’m just chillin’’.

High school, yo time moves fast Jamming to her boy Drake’s raps just to get through class.

Is a RuPaul’s Drag Race episode on tonight?

Yes! Her future is tight.

She wants to move to L.A. and hang in clubs Her K-Town mixtape dropping soon, go and give it some love If anything, she’ll miss moms Burke and McMullen And in fall, CSM, good grades she’ll be pullin’ She pulls up to the school about 8 in the morn And she yells to her daddy ‘Go home. Catch ya later.’

She looks at her kingdom It’s coming to an end But she’s still on her throne as the Queen of SM work. He best friend Laurel Shuster said this: “Shes surprisingly chill and fun.. But she remains a mystery to even those close to her, If I’m being honest, she’s a bit of a mom wallet and a mom friend.”

Emma sits across from her friends, talking with them about social issues and joking about herself. She is working very hard on her computer looking at pictures to put into the newspaper. She works with Breana Picchi, the other photo editor, who helps her with photos.

Her hands are frantically moving around looking at pictures, clicking on her best pictures and agreeing with Breana on what they both like about the pictures.

Emma’s plan for the future is to work for a publishing house as well as publish her own work. She will be attending Evergreen State University and will be majoring in literature with a minor in gender and sexuality studies. Emma wants to be the best person she can ever be to have the most exciting life she can have. She has been holding on to this quote from one of her favorite books, Miss Rumphius, that exactly explains what she wants her life to become: “ Travel the world, live by the sea, make the world a better place.” sports. I am in the National Art Honors Society and the National Music Honors Society,” said James.

James bends his knees, jumps and shoots a three-pointer for his home team. He plays a huge role in San Mateo High’s varsity basketball team.

“James is very well-rounded.

He is a very intelligent kid, his art is very beautiful and he plays the cello. There’s a lot people don’t know about him that’s very interesting,” said Mrs. Moore, his Government teacher.

His primary goal for the future is to be a millionaire. His means to achieve a million dollars are still unknown at this point, but he’s confident he will get there someday. He plans to attend San Diego State in the fall 2016 and plans on majoring in_____ .

“He’s really cool and fun. We play cards a lot in the library during our free sixth. He’s really funny too,” said Meshawn Ware, senior and friend of James.

Daniel Hidalgo:

Music Enthusiast

Ariel Seidman Staff Writer

Never in a million years would you think this day would near but it finally has . You finally throw your graduation cap to the sky with your Bearcat family. You realize this is what made that tiny, cold desk worth sitting in.

Daniel has had a difficult time trying to pinpoint his interests and goals for the future. He still experiences the same struggle in his last days of being a senior at SMHS. He has considered becoming a social worker when he finishes college. “I know some people who have been helped by social workers and what they do is very useful,” Daniel explains. “I’ve seen how they work in person and also I like working with people and helping them”.

His parents are extremely supportive of his choice to attend college right after high school.

They are so enthusiastic about him attending since they know first hand how it feels like to not be able to go.

Also because Daniel will be the first one to go to college out of his entire

family. He is not only motivated by his parents, but by his desire to support himself and possibly a family in the future.

Daniel has goals he wants to fulfill in his near future. These goals include gaining experience working with children which will be necessary to become a social worker. Another goal he has is that within 10 years he wants to have his life figured out, know his purpose and who he want to be. Daniel is considering the option of possibly moving out of state. He loves change and is looking forward to experiencing new environments in the next few years.

“Starting my life after high school doesn’t scare me. It actually excites me. Anything can happen.” Daniel is optimistic about his future and is ready for any situation he might come across along the road. He likes the feeling of knowing that he will have a fresh start. “ I feel like I didn’t try my best in high school and I could have done better. College is a way for me to have another chance to do better in school”.

Vyjayanti Munagala: Indian Princess Shelby Staneart Opinion Editor

Vyjayanti crawls over the tables to get back her AP Physics review sheets from Ankur’s desk. She does her best to be descreet, but doesn’t do a good job at it.

Vyjayanti Munagala is a star. If San Mateo could have celebrities, Vyjayanti would be one. She’s been doing Model United Nations since freshman year and has been in journalism since sophmore year.

She is currently the editor of the Arts and Entertainment section and the head delegate in MUN. One of her proudest moments is when she won best delegate at a conference at Stanford. Vyjayanti is also one of the smartest, wittiest people you will ever meet.

“I have a big, sappy heart.” said Vyjayanti. She is a self-proclaimed

“cheeseball.” In her free time she loves to use the snapchat filters and hang out with her friends. It’s lunch time in the quad, and Vyjayanti is dancing like nobody is watching.

Her friends yell at her to stop because she does it so much, but she doesn’t care. She continues to dance until kuch ends.

“She’s too Indian for her own good.” said best friend, Sarah Wisnom.

Vyjayanti will be attending the University of Iowa this fall studying buisness. She is most excited about meeting new people and “being able to stay up until four in the morning without getting in trouble.” She is also very excited to discover the music scene in Iowa.

She hopes to study abroad.

• • • Staff Box • • • Editor-in-Chief: Tiffany Lee News Editor: Cindy Zhang Opinion Editor: Shelby Staneart Features Editor: Lane Mahoney A&E Editor: Vyjayanti Munagala LEL Editor: Marjorie Miranda Sports Editor: Jillian Osheroff Photo Editor: Breana Picchi Photo Editor: Emma Cousineau Graphics Editor: Ellen Zhu Video Editor: Ankur Kela Web Editor: Rachel Kirkes Copy Editor: Sienna Ropert Business Manager: James Foti Advisor: Ms. Fergusson

Staff Writers:

Maya Angel Zulma Canahui-Bajxac Jessica Fetanatnia Daniel Hidalgo Bonilla Ananya Iyer Jacqueline Louie Katherine Martinez Jack Pope Maya Rijhwani Amanjoty Sangha Ariel Seidman Marc Shehayed Ananya Shetty Luiza Velloso

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MUSIC

Thursday, May 13, 2016

THESANMATEOHI

helping others have a good time with my music. Not only that, but I’ve met some of my best friends in the bands. One of those friends I will always remember is Mr. Tribuzi.”

Next year Ryan is planning to attend UC Riverside, but if he gets off the waitlist for UC Santa Cruz then he will be a banana slug instead. Beyond college, Ryan has always wanted to be a musician.

“I have always dreamed of being a musician but before I can really set my mind to it, I want to have a set career. This will allow me to pursue my dream without worrying about becoming a starving artist,” he said.

“I got involved with the music program because I’ve played trumpet since fourth grade. Joining the Marching Band and Jazz Band here was one of the best decisions of my life,” he said. “I play the trumpet because it matches my personality. Like the trumpet, I’m very loud so I get to play as loud as I wanted and people understood because I’m Ryan.

I’m also really brassy. Trumpets also play the melody a lot of the time and I’m always the center of attention, so it fits.” According to Ryan, the funniest moment he has ever experienced at San Mateo was when Mr. Thrasher said they weren’t friends. Ryan’s response was “HAHAHAHA good one. No but for real.”

Ryan Hong: The Brassy Bearcat Lane Mahoney Features Editor

As he lifts his trumpet to play the Hawaii 5-0 theme, Ryan Hong turns to his band friends and smiles before his last concert for SMHS. This smile is likely a result of some mischievous prank which he and his friends have pulled on Mr. Tribuzi or others in the class. “Sophomore year on our band trip to San Diego, Joe Veglak decided to run away to mess with the group, but our group decided to mess with him back and we left him. We lost him for a solid hour or two until someone called us saying that he was with them, but Joe was trying to mess with us some more and make us believe that we had actually lost him and he was going to go on the other bus.

So, we called Mr. Tribuzi to have him call Joe and pretend to be mad at him for being so irresponsible for running away. It was magisterial,” remembered Ryan.

When he isn’t practicing for the next large band concert, Ryan is likely eating an 18-inch sandwich, which he does quite often, or watching Hawaii 5-0 and Agents of SHIELD. He can also be found in any Japanese, Thai or Indian restaurant; exercising; hanging out with friends; or meditating. Ryan is never not listening to music, though. “Making music has always been something I love doing. It gives me the ability to change a person’s mood depending on what chord I play or tone I create.

There’s nothing I love more than

artwork. “She is an amazing person with a genuine character,” continued Ms. Watson. “Loves family, traveling, art and life!”

But what interests Vivian most is probably nutrition, food and cooking. “I’m extremely passionate about shaping the health and wellbeing of current and future generations and contributing to a healthier world,” said Vivian, who plans to major in nutritional sciences at UC Berkeley in the fall. “I love experimenting in the kitchen and cooking, especially healthy, and not gross, vegan desserts!” continued Vivian with a laugh. “I’m always trying to sneak veggies into my desserts—you can’t taste them!” Her friends agree. “Vivian is the type of friend that you can pour your heart out to and she’ll always be there to support you and make you some vegan desserts,” said Kay Chow, senior, who guarantees that the vegetables in Vivian’s desserts are hardly noticeable.

Her past at San Mateo have been incredible for Vivian and although Berkeley promises great things, leaving high school marks a significant change for Vivian. “I’ll miss the spirit and the encouraging, nurturing environment,” said Vivian, turning a bit more serious, maybe even a bit wistful. “Also the amazing and hilarious people who never cease to put a smile to my face.” She pauses a bit, contemplating all the things Mateorelated that she will miss, but then breaks into a grin again as she comes up with something that will not be missed at all: “Seagull poop!”

Vivian Liu: The Vegan Violinist Cindy Zhang News Editor

Fingers poised over the piano keys, Vivian Liu draws in a breath before plunging into the music, the melody spilling effortlessly from beneath her fluttering hands. By now, the process is familiar—since she started playing the piano 15 years ago and the violin 12 years ago, she has performed hundreds of times, often by invitation. “I didn’t have a choice originally,” laughed Vivian, her eyes bright and face animated as she discusses the piano and violin. “But I’m so glad and grateful that I never gave up on them because they’ve taken me so far and brought me incredible opportunities that I wouldn’t have experienced otherwise.” And Vivian has undoubtedly gone far with her music; her illustrious performance history includes stints at Carnegie Hall in New York and the Kennedy Center in Washington,

D.C. That said, Vivian also performs regularly as a member of the San Mateo High School orchestra. “It’s where I found my niche,” Vivian explained. “I immediately felt at home as soon as I stepped in the [music] building. There are such talented and incredible people who are so passionate about their music.

It’s very inspiring and motivating to witness some kind of music wizardry being created in front of you.”

While music has been an enormous part of Vivian’s life, writing, art and travel have shaped Vivian dramatically as well. Earlier this year, Vivian published her first book, a travel memoir, and she is currently working on a second one. “Fabulous artist and writer,” described Ms. Watson, one of the SMHS counselors, who was impressed with a calendar that Vivian designed featuring her own

Alison Coyle: Voice of an Angel Maya Angel Staff Writer Alison Coyle is so bright. From the top of her head to the tip of her toes, she is a ray of sunshine. Easily spotted with half of her hair bright purple, Alison describes herself as just an all around amazing human being. She is super pretty, and super great. “She is also the clumsiest person I’ve ever met,” said her friend Ariana Briseno, senior, with a laugh.

Alison is being profiled because of her three consecutive years in choir. She joined at first because one of her many friends was in chorus, she needed a year of performing arts, and she figured she’d give it a try. But she continued because she developed a passion. Alison loves to sing.

“I like music so much because it connects people in ways that speaking cannot,” she said.

Choir requires all the members to be in sync and to sing in harmony.

“When you are in choir, and you guys are singing a song your heartbeats start to match up because your breathing at the same places,”

she said.

In addition to having a beautiful singing voice, Alison is one of a kind because of her personality and hair and has many unusual talents.

For example, she can move her ears back and forth, she reveals with a smile. She has also memorized the first half of the song “Presidents” by the Animaniacs.

Alison is very open, free, and loud and not afraid to be weird or stand out, as she does in most crowds. So if you see her out in the quad, say hi. She is nice, compassionate, and friends with everyone.

Alison pretty much goes with the flow and lives life as it comes to her. But along with that she really enjoys working with children, and they all love her, like everyone else.

Alison is friends with everyone. For the past couple summers, she has been working at a summer camp called Way Outback, and works as a counselor for the children.

In her future, she will go and plans to go College of San Mateo. where students will soon see her bright purple hair and hear her lovely voice in the halls.

Luis Garcia: Becoming A Pro Percussionist Daniel Hidalgo Staff Writer As he sits on his chair rehearsing for his upcoming show with Danger: Diversity, Luis Garcia pounds away at his drum set and stays in rhythm with the rest of his bandmates. With each hit of his sticks, he adds a signature flare while playing the song precisely.

Moving into his solo, Luis shows his bandmates why he was chosen as a drummer. He incorporates odd time signatures, which are a nod to one of his favorite drummer, Mike Portnoy. After finishing the song, the band gathers to discuss their plans for their upcoming shows in the coming weeks. Then they call it a day and decide to continue practicing tomorrow.

For the past four years Luis Garcia has been a part of the SMHS marching band and as well as the symphonic. Being able to play drums has always been a passion for him because he enjoys both listening to and creating music. To Luis, music is something that he holds dear. Ever since he was in elementary school he has always been interested in playing the drums.

“My main interest has always been music, especially drums. By the time I entered middle school, I tried to to devote as much time as I could to improve my drumming skills. I decided that the best choice for me to do was to join the music class at Bayside Middle school,” he said.

His drumming is not only appreciated by his friends and family but also by his teacher Mr. Tribuzi. “Luis has worked hard to become not just a good drummer, but a great percussionist!”

After playing drums for 5 plus years, Luis hopes to make a career in music. Being able to become a professional musician would be the greatest thing in the world to him because of his love for music.

While it is a challenging goal to accomplish, he is certain that with enough practice and ambition he can reach his goal.

Even though it seems as if he devotes all his time to playing drums, he makes sure he has time for his friends. “One thing I am going to miss from SMHS is hanging out with my friends during lunch. Now it’s going to be more difficult because we’re gonna be going to different schools and may become distant.”

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Bradley Kwan: Bass-ic Marc Shehayed: Keeping it Trill Ariel Seidman Staff Writer

Aman Sangha Staff Writer Bradley Kwan is simply dressed with his cello leaning against his body in the Music Room. Then he puts it aside and plays an amazing melody on his piano, making the room fill with the sounds of a real orchestra. Bradley doesn’t have a “typical environment,” that's the beauty of music. Bradley feels comfortable wherever it is. He doesn’t care whether he is in a concert hall in Barcelona, the quad at our high school, or the local farmers’ market, music allows him to connect with people in a way only possible through music.

Bradley is unique in many ways. He’s accomplished so much throughout his musical and educational careers.

For example, Bradley has played for many San Mateo plays and musicals, the most recent being “And Then There Were None.” He has also played in the pit for many Hillbarn performances. In fact, he even composed an original score for “And Then There Were None!”

Bradley loves eating foods from different countries, listening to music from around the world, and watching foreign films.

With his natural talent and abundant curiosity, he has been inspired to learn to play many different instruments. Bradley plays the piano, cello, guitar, bass, percussion, and trumpet.

He performs in our school’s jazz band, in an orchestra called PYO (Peninsula Youth Orchestra), in the SMHS marching band, and is the pep band director at our school. He has also performed with our school’s string orchestra and symphonic band on tour. Loving to entertain his audiences, Bradley enjoys improvising simple pop chords, TV show themes and jazz songs.

A lot of Bradley’s friends have talked about him and how they admire and enjoy the pleasure of listening to his music. “Bradley is kind of the best of both worlds: he's musically gifted, determined, and hardworking, but he's also super chill, easygoing, and spontaneous.

He isn't afraid to put himself out there and be silly in order to have fun. he's very easy to talk to and can always put a smile on everyone's face,” said Vivian Liu, his friend. People often say Bradley will become something big in the years yet to come. “Bradley is very dedicated to his music. He

is a supremely talented cellist and pianist. He composes and arranges music, and has been a solid leader.

He is the only student I've ever had who directed the Pep Band for two years in a row!” said Music Teacher Mr. Til Trubuzi. Everyone believes he will be a success.

Bradley's plan for the future is pursuing biomedical engineering with an emphasis in prosthetics at the University of Cal Poly.

His goal is to create limbs that work with the same dexterity as their actual counterparts so that physically handicapped individuals can also enjoy the sensations of playing instruments. He also hopes to make a score for a film and present it at a well known film festival, such as the Sundance Film Festival or Cannes Film Festival.

Bradley wants to travel around the world and immerse himself in different cultures, telling his story through music along the way.

San Mateo High School has lead Bradley to be a kind and respected person. With all the hard work and accomplishments he has done, Bradley will be unstoppable.

“Don’t do what people want you to do, do what you think is best for yourself,” he said.

Julia Sun: Pitch Perfect

Jillian Osheroff Staff Writer Passionate, loveable, intelligent.

These are just some of the many adjectives that describe Julia Sun. Usually found in plaid bearcat pajamas and an oversized graphic tee bearing the phrase ‘#sleepmore’, this chick is an unstoppable force both on and off campus. If anything, she lives up to

her name, adding a ray of sunshine to those in her life.

Julia is quite the scientific and musical genius. At San Mateo High, she excelled as a member of both concert choir and chambers, and served on the SMHS/BHS Choir Council. She was also the president of Neuroscience Club and Acapella Club. She continuously pushed herself

in academics, especially in AP Chemistry and AP Biology during junior. Outside of school, Julia’s held internships at the the UCSF Gladstone Institute of Neurological Disease and the University of Cincinnati Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine Division (researching the KIBRA protein to link kidney proteins to Alzheimer’s disease). I am positive that her

Bouncing along to an original tune, Marc Shehayed arrives at the band room at noon every day to do his favorite thing: play music. But he can’t stand to hold in the music when noontime ends. Marc’s whole life is music.

Marc Shehayed is captain of the jazz band and has performed in numerous musicals during his four years at San Mateo High School.

Marc plays the piano, guitar and the drums. Piano, having been a part of his life for seven years, is Marc’s main instrument. Over the years.

Marc has won numerous trophies and medals for his outstanding piano skills. One award in particular is the John Phillips Sousa award, recognizing superior skill and musicianship. Other awards he won for musical theater include one best actor and two best chorus awards. Marc has also developed the skill of having perfect pitch, where he is able to hear and play any song or note by ear on any one of his three instruments.

“I grew up in a family influenced by music, so I was sort of guided in that direction,” Marc explained. “I definitely want to continue music.

Not as a career, but more as a passionate hobby.” The Shehayeds play the piano, as well as the guitar and Marc’s brother, Ralph Shehayed plays the saxophone.

“Occasionally we will all play together.” Marc and his family try to play music together as much as they can, despite Marc’s busy schedule.

Marc is exceptionally experienced in musical theater. For all four of his years at San Mateo, he has played percussion in the pit of the stage interest and influence in these two fields will continue to flourish in her upcoming adult years.

Julia explains herself as a contrarian, which is 100 percent true. Conforming is never an option. She stands in a league of her own in terms of personality and poise. “She’s a bulldog. She keeps at it until she gets it. She’s very feisty yet polite,” said Mr. Tong, her AP Chemistry teacher.

“I’m a huge yoga and meditation nut. I also practice classical piano and record original jazz duets with my best friend, Janani,” said Julia, addressing her favorite activities.

“The first time I met Julia, she was imitating the bird calls of the unruly seagulls that flock around our lunch area. She perfectly mimicked their sound, looked up at me, smiled the famous Julia Sun grin, and introduced herself: “‘Hi! I’m Julia Sun! Want to be friends?’” shared Janani Krishnan-Jha, one of Julia’s closest friends ever since that lucky day at the start of junior year (she transferred). Janani also notes that Julia is one of the most empathetic people she’s had the pleasure of getting to know. “She’s known in our friend group and beyond for her knack to identify the smallest hint

for musicals and plays. A project he is currently working on is writing the sheet music for part of the play “Hamilton,” all by ear. He is also currently writing harmonies and melodies for the singers and sheet music for piano, violin and drums.

Marc will be playing the piano and the drums himself and will be recruiting other musicians to play the rest of the orchestra. The music in “Hamilton” is a mix of 18th century classical and 20th century R&B and rap. The orchestra will performing this on graduation day, May 26, 2016.

Marc’s future plans are crystal clear. In 10 years he wants to professionally perform in shows, and earn a master’s degree in engineering. He wants to use his skills interchangeably in both careers to improve and compliment one another. He still is yet to figure out how he is planning to combine the two. He hopes to pass down his wisdom of using music to benfit your life as a whole. “People can use music to help them solve problems in their lives and overcome obstacles,” he says passionately. Marc especially appreciates music for the way anyone can interpret it in their own manner. And music to Marc is like water to fish. Marc does not go a day without music, taking even the smallest amount of time every day to play his instruments. People find many different ways to express themselves, and playing piano or writing sheet music is the most personalized way he knows how to do that. “Music speaks when words fail to.” For Marc, music is the way he can assert his genuine self. He looks forward to continuing his passion for the years ahead. of sadness or concern in someone’s face and immediately address it.

She genuinely cares for the people around her and is fiercely loyal to her friends and family,” she added.

Julia will be attending to Boston University in the fall. She can’t wait to explore the city, join clubs, and meet new and interesting people. As for life beyond college, Julia wants to take on neuroscience as her profession. “Much like Dr. Gregory House on the TV show, House, I am interested in the intricacies of the brain. I think it’s amazing how we can have a consciousness thinking about someone else’s consciousness. It’s a paradox that just fascinates me and fills me with a haunting wonder,” she explained with a smile. During the upcoming summer, Julia will be representing the United States at a world choir competition in South Korea. Also, her research on the spreading of artificial tau fibrils and human PSP lysate tracked in mice brains is soon to be published in a prestigious scientific journal.

Whether she lands on stage, in your science textbook, or some place entirely different, it is obvious that Julia Sun plans on living the rest of her life on a high note.

Standouts

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Laurel Schuster: An Unstoppable Juggernaut of Talent

Sienna Ropert Copy Editor

Laurel Schuster is an “unstoppable juggernaut of talent,” according to Mr. Pirie, her favorite teacher. He knows Laurel well and is one of the many who has experienced her unique yin and yang personality.

“You think you’ve got her niche figured out, right? Like okay, she’s sort of a comedy/performing arts kid. Then, out of nowhere she’s like, ‘oh, whoops, I’m a national merit scholar! And here’s some excellent writing for your perusal!

And, hold the phone! Let me hit you with this science!’” he said.

Laurel’s most well known talent is her ability in performing arts.

She has been in numerous San

Mateo productions and is the captain of the improv team. On the surface, she seems like any other performing arts kid. But Laurel Schuster doesn’t like to stay in the box. She doesn’t fit into any particular mold, she doesn’t follow patterns, and she doesn’t do what people expect her to. She’s Laurel, and there’s no category for that.

Besides being an actor, Laurel’s a total nerd. “I like figuring stuff out. Understanding the world a little better, understanding the way people think about things and why,” she said. “It’s real difficult to do a bunch of homework and studying when you’re not interested in stuff.

I’m sort of fortunate in that way that I am interested in a lot of things.”

With seven years of science on

Tara Nash: Nash-Attack

Ellen Zhu Graphic Editor

Three seconds. Passed from one set of hand to another, the ball makes its way toward her.

Heart pounding, another breath is drawn in before going under.

Arms and legs tread everywhere, as if fighting to stay afloat, yet they were all in control. Two seconds.

The opponent approaches, ball in hand, arm wound back. Everyone freezes for a split second. “Take the shot!” The opponent’s arm lurches forward and the ball leaves her hand, just at the tips of her fingers.

One second. With all her might, the goalie bursts out of the water, appearing to be ten times the size of her opponent. Tara Nash reaches out to block the ball from reaching its goal, returning the possession to the Bearcats.

Since freshman year, Tara Nash has held multiple leadership roles, including captain of the water polo team, multiple years of student council leading to ASB Secretary and president of the Acts of Random Kindness club.

Outside of school, she devotes her time to volunteering with pediatric

therapists and occasionally performing street music to raise donations for the American Cancer Society. Tara’s perspective of San Mateo is that “it’s such a loving community because the community and staff make sure that you have the necessities. It’s so diverse, not only racially, but through the experiences of every student, teacher and faculty. ” As impressive as her involvement is, Tara has many hidden talents such as having a brown belt in karate. “When people challenge me, I actually ‘attack’ them and most are surprised by my skills,” said Tara. “If you say ‘You can’t,’ I’ll show you I can.” She is also a vocalist and musician who plays the guitar, ukulele and piano. She additionally is also a master at dropping dead asleep anytime, anywhere.

“She is great at reading the social scene of SMHS. She has given me great feedback as a teacher. A true sounding board,” said Mr. Ortega, one of Tara’s teachers. She’s made a positive impact on not only her teachers but her friends as well.

“It’s never a dull moment with Tara

her transcript, it’s not hard to guess Laurel’s favorite subject. “I like science a lot. Because I have a lot of questions about it and I enjoy getting answers to those questions, whether it’s through lectures or actually figuring it out in the lab.”

She even had an internship over the summer at, as she termed it, “the popular pre-teen social network Ask.fm,” where her research report was presented at the Ask.fm headquarters in Latvia. Laurel is confident that she wants to pursue a long term career in science.

Next year, Laurel plans to attend Reed College in Portland where she will major in Biology and perhaps minor in Linguistics. Further in the future, she wants to work in environmental science, more specifically reconciliation ecology and alternative energy.

Although academics are super important to Laurel, performing arts are equally important in defining who she is. “Laurel’s commitment to being in the moment makes her not only fun to watch and play with on stage, but great to hang out with, since her energy is so infectious.

She embodies the ‘yes, and’ improv mentality by treating mistakes as gifts, and by only making choices that move her life forward,” said senior Noah Bender, one of Laurel’s best friends. “She’s super kind and cheerful to all humans and animals that cross her path,” said Mr. Pirie. and I can always be myself around her. She’s that crazy adventurous friend that’s down to do anything (except when she’s sleeping in class) but she’ll also make sure to be there for you whenever you need someone or you just need a hug,” said Chelsea Young, 12. “I don’t know how I would’ve gotten through highschool without her.”

Tara plans to attend UC Berkeley where she intends to major in Biological Sciences. Her dream for the future is to become a Pediatric Physician. “I want to help kids who are unfairly cheated out of their lives because of illnesses,” said Tara.

But Tara hasn’t always been this positive and inspired person.

“I used to be a negative person because of my past and home life until I realized that everyone has their issues, and if you look at the positives, life is actually really good. Everyone has a story and you should get to know their story before you judge them,” said Tara.

With this new positivity, Tara has come to terms with the challenges in her life. “I’ve had a really hard time with finances. There are so many things I wanted to do, but didn’t have the means to do so. One day I want to earn enough money to pay my parents back for all they’ve assisted me in.”

For all future and current Bearcats, Tara advises, “don’t be afraid to ask teachers questions; think of them more as a mentor than a teacher.

They have so much knowledge and wisdom, that they are willing to share with you. Expectations are not necessarily what will happen, but that’s okay because it might come out better than expected.

If you make the most out of what appears to be a bad situation, it can be better than anything you ever dreamed.

Mayur Ejjalaghatta: Fight ON

Jack Pope Staff Writer He’s either screaming “Fight ON” from across the hallway, socializing with every other woman he sees or bringing a smile to every person on campus: Mayur is a standout.

Ever since freshman year, Mayur has been the life of the party. He constantly is full of energy and spreads that love and joy to all his friends. His approachable character is what draws the public to him, and his non-stop humor is what keeps them around. Sometimes the humor gets him in trouble, and as a result, he is banished to “isolation island” in Ms. Bunch’s class.

Besides fooling around, Mayur has made some serious contributions to the Bearcat community. For the past four years, he has represented the boys’ tennis team. Continuously trying to better himself, he not only trains during practice, but also during his free time on the weekdays and even on the weekends. “I play with my friend, Bishal, almost every day.

We like to compete against each other,” says Mayur.

“Mayur is a friend that has my back both on and off the court,” says Bishal.

Additionally, Mayur is a part of the Tech Team for this year’s Leadership class. Tech Team primarily works with the Spirit Commissioners, but are also a vital asset to all other leadership activities. “Even though it is a huge responsibility, it is really rewarding because you can see that your help makes others feel happier,” said Mayur. Ms. Cowey, Renaissance and Leadership teacher, agrees. “Mayur brings a zest for life, abundance, synergy, enthusiasm, honesty and loyalty to the Leadership family,” she said He is a wonderful student, leader and team member, and it has been an honor to have him as part of both the Renaissance and Leadership classes.”

Next year, Mayur will be going off to live with his family (the cows) at the California Polytechnic University. He plans on majoring in Economics, even though he spends most of MacroEconomics on his phone. But joking aside, we know that Mayur will bring a whole, new cheer to students at Cal Poly, and we can’t wait to see the things that he does. If there’s one piece of advice I can give to him, I’d have to steal his own quote. Mayur, “fight on!”

Yeimy Ramos: La Guerrera

Marjorie Miranda LEL Editor

Yeimy can be found sitting with her friends outside the ELD hallways, chatting away or doing homework. Wherever she is, Yeimy always has a smile on her face.

This year Yeimy was in charge of her tutorial class for the Canned Food Drive. She stood outside of stores for hours and collected thousands of cans. Because of her dedication and help from her classmates, her tutorial class won the Canned Food Drive for the senior class. She has also been in the ELD program for the past four years and has worked so hard on her English that it has finally become her second language.

“The hardest part was learning how to communicate with other people and right now I’m in the process of having it as my official second language,” said Yeimy. “At the beginning you feel embarrassed about other people laughing at you

because of the way you pronounce some words,” she said, explaining some of her difficulties.

Yeimy is one of the nicest girls around and, always surrounded by happiness, she will never be seen with a sad face. “She has a pleasant smile, always willing to learn something new and helping those who are having trouble,” said Mr. Mountain, one of her teachers.

“She always tries her best to keep going foward and gets stuff done quick” said one of her good friends Esmeralda Menchaca.

She will continue her education at CSM and will like to attend a university in two years and hopefully become a doctor or something to do with children.

“I’ve learned that you have to take advantage of the opportunities we are given and keep working hard in school. You can always achieve your goals, nothing is impossible,” said Yeimy.

Friday, May 13, 2016

Leila Schaumkel: The School’s Bae-la Rachel Kirkes Web Editor

As she waits for the music to start, Leila looks around at her friends and at the crowd all staring at them from the steps in the quad.

The music begins and she begins to dance. Everyone else does the same steps, moves to the same rhythm, and all smile while performing their beautiful dance. Once the music stops and the last step is completed, the crowd erupts into applause. The Poly Club has done it again. What a great performance.

Leila is sweet, warmhearted and loves to laugh with friends. She enjoys both writing and reading fan fiction and considers it one of her

favorite hobbies. She has been part of the Poly Club all four years of school, and was elected Secretary of the club at the beginning of this school year. Her hidden talents include improvising very well, critiquing people’s outfits, charming her way out of trouble and rapping.

Leila is also part of a dancing group and is the president of a Young Women’s Group, both for her church. The group has eight values that they follow and they learn how to take care of the home and cook and clean. “She is so positive. She comes from humble origins, but has transformed herself,” said Mr. Ortega

Ankur Kela: Bananaman 2k16 Ananya Iyer Staff Writer

Center stage with his partner in crime Nathan Kruse, Ankur Kela screams the word, “MATEOOOOOOOO,” motivating the school to be the most spirited it can be. Short, adorable and coffeecolored, Ankur is most comfortable when he’s got his headphones in playing FIFA on his couch or playing soccer and cricket with his friends.

If he’s not performing in one of the school musicals, plays, dance concerts or improv shows, he’s creating and editing a video for the school website or channeling his crazy side into raising bearcat spirit at school rallies and sports events. At San Mateo High School alone, Ankur has been a part of six musicals and three plays including major roles in “Noises Off” and “Rehearsal For Murder.” Of all the roles Ankur has portrayed, the one he’s most proud of was when he played the lead comic, Cookie, in the musical “Nice Work If You Can Get It.” “Watching Ankur come into his own as a performer has been such a delightful experience for me.

Each year, he stretched himself,

particularly as an actor, in roles both comic (Noises Off) and dramatic (And Then There Were None). His maturity was a part of his character as early as 9th grade, and he took advantage of that focus to become a fine performer,” said Mr. Friedman, teacher.

Ankur’s sister Payal, who graduated from SMHS last year, is someone who he really respects and is inspired by. “My sister finds this balance of pursuing her passions and being an approachable friend. She’s doing really well at college with dance & academics and at the same time she’s building and maintaining new and old relationships. That’s a combination I am constantly inspired by.”

Ankur is such an easygoing and approachable guy that any conversation with him inevitably makes you just as happy as he is.

Although he was quite shy when he first moved here from India at the beginning of his freshman year, Ankur is now the very definition of an extrovert, easily making friends with just about everyone he meets.

“Ankur is more than just a friend.

He’s become a brother to me and he never fails to bring a smile to my face. Even though he loses every

Kareem Bdeir: Kareem The Dream

Shelby Staneart Opinion Editor Kareem can often be found bonding with his teachers, such as Mr. Pirie, Mr. Thrasher or Ms. Johnson. He jokes with them and discusses deep topics, such as existentialism. You’ll never catch him dead without a flannel or his Doc Martens.

If there is one thing you should

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Her plans for college are, at the moment, undecided, as she is still trying to decide between Suny Potsdam and Notre Dame.

She plans to complete a double major in both creative writing and English. “I want to be a high school English teacher while writing a book on the side,” she says. “Leila is hardworking & kind toward others. She is thoughtful and has a wonderful sense of humor, which she uses to help create a wonderful atmosphere to everything in which she is involved. She is truly a spirited Bearcat, and will be the first in her family to attend college,” said Ms. Malatesta.

Her other goals and plans for the future include publishing a personal novel, traveling around Europe and China, and meeting Robert Downey Jr. “I also want to get married to a sweet-hearted, blonde hair, blueeyes guy with a well paying job,” she explains while laughing.

Her favorite movie is 13 Going On 30, her favorite books are the Harry Potter Series and The Northern Lights and Robert Downey Jr. is her favorite actor of all time. She also enjoys pesto ravioli, the colors maroon and beige and rainbow colored roses.

"Here is some important advice for our younger classes: if you are struggling and are tired and feel like you want to give up, stop. Breathe.”

know about Kareem, it’s that he always puts others before him. He is a man-a myth-a legend. Kareem is incredibly smart and incredibly unique. Kareem notes that he is really good at keeping it 100 percent real. Because Kareem keeps it real, he won most opinionated in the senior polls.

“I’m a people person,” Kareem states. “I’m a good empathizer and I’m really good at reading people’s

time we play Fifa, he’s a good sport about it and always wants a rematch. Ankur in his element is like a lion stalking his prey. He gets super focused and he finds a way to get the job done. And like a lion, he usually roars after,” said Mayur Ejjalaghatta, Ankur’s best friend and brother.

Being spirit commissioner and a part of leadership has opened a world of new opportunities to Ankur. It inspired him to make new friends and develop relationships and has showed him that bringing people together is what he wants to do. “My freshman year, I wanted to make a difference in the school. I remember when I stepped into my first rally in the gym, I saw Ben and Mike (our 2 spirit commissioners at that time) and I looked at them and said, ‘Dang, I wanna be those guys.’”

Ankur is planning on majoring in economics at UCSB and is also hoping to pursue his passion for acting and theatre there. His advice for other bearcats is, “Appreciate the good in people and reward them for that, because I promise you there is something special to every single person.” feelings.” Kareem knows everyone and everyone knows Kareem. He is that face that everyone loves to see on and off campus. Three words to describe Kareem are caring, witty and funky. His name in Arabic means “generous.” He currently works at Home Depot, but previously worked at Marshall’s and Taco Bell.

Kareem walks down the hallways casually chatting up the people around him. As he walks from one class to another, he manages to make ten new friends.

“He’s such a good friend. I don’t deserve him,” said close friend, Aria Haghnia.

Kareem will be attending UC Santa Cruz and will be majoring in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. He wants to pursue a career in something medical. No matter what he ends up doing, he’s going to end up being the best at it.

Sparsh Pradhan: Camera Queen

Jillian Osheroff Sports Editor

Click! Sparsh Pradhan snaps another cute photo of people in the quad. After four years, she’s gotten it down to a tight routine: take the pictures, upload them to Facebook, and watch as the likes and comments roll in. There is no doubt in saying that Sparsh has filled our community with love and happiness through her photography and passion for friendship.

Other than her place as social leader and catalyst for acceptance and laughter, Sparsh also excels inside the classroom. She is always there to lend a hand to her peers, and adds an element of fun to a usual day of learning. “Sparsh has a true sunny disposition, and I’ve seen a lot of growth in her over the years. She has her act together and she always gets her work done,” said Ms. McCabe, who had the pleasure of teaching Sparsh during her time here at SMHS. When she isn’t sleeping, Sparsh enjoys watching TV shows, reading, eating chips and stealing food from her friends. Many would be surprised to know that Sparsh used to practice taekwondo.

“I regret stopping, because it definitely kept me fit and made me

less lazy,” she said.

Slam! The birdie goes flying through the air, over the net, and onto the floor of her opponent.

Sparsh has just won another badminton match for the San Mateo High badminton team. She has participated as a top player for all four years, and her teammates are extremely appreciative of her support and cheerful presence.

“One day during practice, she asked everyone on the team to prom,” said Eric Ma, sharing his favorite memory with her.

“Sparsh is a crazy and outgoing person. She is always in a good mood and tries to make the best out of everything. When I was having a bad day, she went above and beyond to try to make me smile by making a fool of herself,” said Jennifer Nunez, one of Sparsh’s closest friends.

Sparsh will be attending Sonoma State University in the fall. She’s entering as an Art Studio major, but she’s not positive if that’s the perfect path for her to follow. It is impossible for her to fully express how much she is going to miss San Mateo High School. “I’ll mainly miss my friends and their food, the spirit, and the overall community here.” she shared.

Meshawn Ware: Future Usain Bolt Jack Pope Staff Writer

Digging into the ground, Meshawn’s pushes off his starting block and madly sprints 400 meters around the track. His ability and will pushes him to get 53 seconds for one lap on the track.

Meshawn is a captain of the varsity track and field team, a great dancer who performed in Mateo Motion for both his years in dance, and an outstanding member of his community.

“I’m perfect in every way and my

special talent is existing,” Meshawn said with a laugh.

Meshawn plans to attend the University of the Pacific in Stockton with a major in psychology. He hopes to become an experimental psychologist. “I’ve bought cookie dough from Meshawn more than any other student because of how persuasive he is. He has a great sense of humor and he is super nice, and I hear he is very fast, and a really good dancer,” said Ms. Kalinski.

Nathan Kruse: The

Math God Marjorie Miranda LEL Editor

You can find Nathan Kruse on stage in one of the many roles he’s played at San Mateo or out on the quad at lunch, dancing away.

Nathan is known around the school as a very spirited person and an all around nice guy. He has been in many school musicals, is part of the improv club and is a member of student government. One favorite memory that Nathan has is an improv show his sophomore year where he had a solo where he had to convey different types of emotions.

“There’s so many things here that are so wild that so many people don’t appreciate or don’t take advantage of. There’s so many clubs and opportunities here at San Mateo that some don’t realize,” he said.

This year Nathan became the

Spirit Commissioner with his good friend, Ankur Kela. All year long, they have hosted the rallies and made them memorable for all of us. “Nathan Kruse is always there to help you in anything, especially math. He's smart, funny, and a pretty cool guy,” said his good friend Nikhil Dodd.

“Nathan has such unparalleled enthusiasm. He’s enthusiastic about everything--from being spirit commissioner, to academics, anything. Nathan’s the first senior I’ve seen take a senior portrait with a TI-84 Plus Silver Edition,” said Mr. Ranaldi.

After high school, Nathan plans to attend UC Santa Barbara and major in mathematics. “Right now I want to be a professor in math. I want to be the type of teacher that no one forgets, the type of teacher that inspires their students to chase after what they want to do.”

Friday, May 13, 2016

NEWS

PHILLIPS, page 2 ————————————————

DING, page 3 —————

advice to non-seniors would be to take everything one step at a time.

“When things get stressful, just take a step back and know that everything will work out. Also have lots of fun and just be friends with everyone! In these past few months I have heard so many people saying something along

means to get enough sleep, even though that’s hypocritical.”

At UC Berkeley, Geoffrey hopes to capture all the academic resources there, just like he did here. We wish him the best and hopefully we will see him creating technology that outdoes Steve Jobs’ Apple.

the lines of ‘Why didn’t we hang out more before this year?’ so don’t wait until senior year,” she advised. “I love all you bearcats so much and I’m gonna miss you all oodles and oodles!

Stay weird and spirited, and keep calm through all of the stress and hard work!”

PICCHI, page 10 ———— BENDER, page 7 ———

In her free time, she likes to get domestic. “Netflix? Is that a hobby, I think that counts,” she laughed. “I like to do makeup and hair. Cooking and baking help me relieve stress.”

“I would love to say a little something about Breana!” said Ms. Moore. “She is smart, funny, thoughtful and kind. She has had many struggles, yet she keeps on pushing through it, usually with a smile on her face. She is an inspiration to many others who suffer from health problems. She is also super thoughtful.

She stops in to catch up frequently, she also brings me cards and treats and continues to make me feel appreciated.

She is also an amazing baker, her cakes are gorgeous and delicious. She also has amazing nailing painting skills.”

In the fall, Breana is headed to Montana State University for nursing.

“I am probably going to live up there for a little while, then I might move back or somewhere else on the west coast.”

“I believe that no one is ever going to hand you what you want. You definitely have to go and get it yourself.”

Page 11

THESANMATEOHI

“I auditioned for a lot of places for theater, and I got into a lot of places for theater, but I feel like this was just sort of skipping a bunch of steps in my journey to success in the arts,” he said.

Although Noah’s excited for his future, he’s sad to leave San Mateo’s accepting community and commitment to spirit and excellence. “I’ve become a lot more comfortable with just being outrageous in public. I’ve realized that it doesn’t matter what anyone else thinks of what I’m doing,” he said, reflecting on his growth at San Mateo.

“He laughs things off so easily that no one can touch his sense of self,” said Laurel. “Maybe it’s because I’m at this school, but I’ve never really felt uncomfortable here. I’ve never really felt scared to do what I do,” said Noah.

Although Noah will always look back fondly on his high school years, he’s ready for a change of scene and a whole new group of people. “I’m excited to see how I can, not redefine myself, but just define myself and learn how to experience independence.”

Community College Students!

Transfer to UC Berkeley or UCLA We offer a step-by-step ebook and consulting.

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NAUFAHU, page 6 ———

It is a lot of hard work but, if anybody can do it all, it’s Tiano.

“When I met him, he had a natural ability that hadn’t received any training or lessons. It was just there,” said Mr. Friedman. During his freshman year, Tiano auditioned for the winter musical and blew Mr. Friedman away.

“I’ve watched him blossom into a performer. Whenever he does what he does, it’s a very special experience.”

The big question is what Tiano is going to do after graduation. “My plans for the future are to improve myself socially, physically and spiritually,” said Tiano. “I want to be closer to God and be a better person.”

Tiano received a full-ride scholarship to the Cornish College of the Arts.

“I’m more open to trying new things because of performing arts. Being a part of something like that made me even more happy about myself,” said Ateliano, who will certainly be very successful in the future. In a few years, you may just see Tiano performing on Broadway, living his dream.

OKAI, page 7 —————

“I’m very dedicated, whether it’s to dance, to my position in leadership or to the people that I love,” she said.

Besides dancing in shows like the Nutcracker, Hana is an award-winning choreographer. Hana also worked with professional dancers and a contemporary choreographer, Anandha Ray, on a piece showcased in a show with professional dancers.

Hana plans to study economics and continue dancing at Keio University in Japan, to get in touch with her cultural roots. “I think right now I identify more as an American than as a JapaneseAmerican just because I’ve lived here all my life, so I thought, why not give it a try?” And to the rest of us, Hana’s advice is to “do what makes you happy and spend time with people who you want to be good to and good for!”

YOUNG, page 7 ————

and most caring people I’ve ever met,” said her friend Kylie Chiu.

“I’m not exactly sure how to put it in words, but I’m really going to miss that chill Mateo vibe,” said Chelsea, who will miss the spirited, diverse community here. But she is excited to attend UC San Diego. As Chelsea enters a new realm of her life, she takes her past, present and future with her, ready to face life head on.

TRUMP, page 1 ————

to break up, and the people were happy when the news that Trump had left the premises broke out. People began to chant “We Won!” As people left, some honked while others yelled cuss words. But in the end, protesters tried to prove that the Bay won’t tolerate hate in California.

CodeDay Bay Area is going to be back in San Francisco at Galvanize SF (44 Tehama Street, San Francisco) from Saturday, May 21 to Sunday, May 22! CodeDay is a 24-hour event where students pitch ideas, form teams and build a cool app or game. Register now at codeday.org/sv. Use promo code “SMHS” for 5% off. No experience necessary!

Career Conversations

By Cindy Zhang News Editor

A Conversation with Christiaan Vorkink

Christiaan is a Vice President at True Ventures where he supports the Founders and employees of the 120 company True portfolio. Prior to joining True in 2008, he was a senior analyst at Cambridge Associates and worked in network development at BrightRoll, an early True investment.

What is venture capital?

It’s all about helping people build and scale businesses. Venture capitalists provide money and support to people excited about creating something fundamentally different. Our job is to say “We love what you’re doing, we think your vision for the future is very exciting, and we’ve love to be your partner to help make it a reality.”

How do you go about making these ideas realities?

We tend to invest $250,000 to $2.5 million initially behind a few Founders that we think have a really interesting idea. And while the money is important and what many focus on when they think of venture capital—even the name venture capital has the word “capital” in it—the venture part and the services that come with it are important, too. So we provide a modest amount of money and take a lot of risk. We’re not investing in ideas where we know it’s going to work. In fact, much of the time we know success will be very difficult to achieve. But we believe that supporting ideas that are risky and even a little crazy is what we are chartered to do.

What do you mean by the services beyond the capital?

We have about 125 companies in our portfolio, and there’s tremendous value in plugging new companies into that portfolio such that they’re not only learning from our team here, but also from every other company in the network. That’s something that can help them make fewer mistakes, repeat patterns of success, go quickly and be more successful than they otherwise might have been.

How do you find these companies? Do they come to you?

We’ve been around for 10 years and many people know us and what we do, so while we do a bit of outbound prospecting, almost every investment we make comes in via a trusted referral. And that’s really important to us, because when we invest, there’s often not much more than an idea. There can be no product, users or revenue, so what we’re fundamentally betting on, more than anything else, are the people.

What qualities do you look for in the people you back?

The referral only gets you to the door. We’re looking for visionaries, people who aren’t simply thinking about what the world looks like and needs today, but also five, or even 10 years out. These people are often very creative with great leadership qualities. They need to be able to convince others to leave well-paying jobs at big companies to join them. So if people don’t have that sense of purpose or the ability to communicate that vision well, it’s tough. And you can often see that as you sit across the table listening to their pitch. They need passion, but they need to be able to convey that passion to others, too.

What does a typical day look like for you?

There’s a lot of conversation. We’re chatting with Founders, some of whom are looking for funding, but mostly ones we’ve already invested in. We also spend a lot of time reading and trying to learn.

This is a business whose two fundamental currencies are relationships and information.

How did you get started in venture capital?

I’ve always been interested in business and got my start delivering papers and mowing lawns as a boy. I was in college during the first Internet bubble and became interested in tech then. So after teaching briefly, I decided to get back into tech, eventually finding in venture capital a way to combine my interest in technology and innovation with a service-oriented mindset.

Was the transition from teaching to venture capital hard?

I don’t think I would have been able to go from teaching to venture capital directly, but that’s the exciting part about life and changing careers: in each of the career steps that I’ve taken, I’ve gotten closer and closer to doing exactly what it is that I feel like I’m good at and really enjoy.

What is the best part of your career?

The opportunity that I have to help people follow their dreams. That really motivates me, and I love the idea of helping others achieve and enabling them to do great things.

What is the most challenging part of your career?

The fact that there’s not a 40-hour day! With more than 100 companies in our portfolio, there’s always more to do, more to learn and more to know, and that’s both a frustration and an opportunity.

What do you wish you had known before entering venture capital? What would you tell your younger self?

Part of being successful in business boils down to trusting your gut.

And while you need to see more to have an informed gut, I haven’t always trusted my gut as much as I should have.

What skills or qualities are essential for venture capital?

You have to be optimistic, creative in the way you think, and empathetic. Even though early on there are always reasons why an idea might not work, we need to imagine what impact could be created if it did work.

How do most venture capitalists gain experience?

Either start a company or go work in a startup so that you know what it’s like and so you understand what’s going on in the mind of a Founder. That way, you’ll be able to better identify patterns crucial to success as an investor.

What advice do you have for high school students?

For those who want to be venture capitalists, don’t focus too much on the capital part. I think the most successful investors are not financially-oriented, but impact- and people-oriented. And in general, no matter what career you think you might want to pursue, don’t simply follow the easiest path forward. Be bold and creative.

The mistakes most people regret most in life are not the things that they tried that didn’t work out. They’re the things that they didn’t do but that they wished they had done. So take (healthy) risks, embrace uncertainty and don’t always take the easy way out.

Questions, comments or suggestions? Have a career you want to see profiled? Contact Cindy Zhang at cindy.zhang@thebearcat.net.

Venture Capital By the Numbers $150,000 Median Annual Base Salary

(VC, Private Equity and LBO, 2015)

2,054

Number of VC Firms Nationally (2014)

$156.5 Billion

Cumulative Capital Managed

(By all VC firms nationally, 2014)

$194.9 Million

Average VC Firm Capital

(National average, 2014)

4+ Years Of School after High School

(Undergraduate typically required, MBA often preferred)

+10%

Projected National Job Growth

(Securities, Commodities and Financial Services Sales Agents, 2014-2024)

+32,500

Projected National Employment Change

(Securities, Commodities and Financial Services Sales Agents, 2014-2024)

341,500

Number of Jobs in the U.S.

(Securities, Commodities and Financial Services Sales Agents, 2014-2024)

53.1%

Silicon Valley/ San Francisco Share of U.S. Total VC Investment

(Investment in Clean Technology, 2014) Data from National Venture Capital Association, Harvard Business School, Investopedia, The Wall Street Journal, QuandI, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and O*Net Online.