Volume 16, Issue 6 Senior Issue Class of 2018

May

2018

the

J.W. Mitchell High School 2323 Little Road New Port Richey, FL 34655 Issue 6 Volume 16

hoofbeat

Senior Issue

Photo by Raleigh Illig

A look inside . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Class of 2018 Top Ten . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Flashback From the Past .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Teacher Talk: Words of Wisdom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Fighting the Good Fight for the U.S.A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Will You Rush a Sorority or Fraternity? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . We’re Moving on and Starting Fresh . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Class of 2018 Best Memories

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Senior Superlatives

See page 18

.

. . Signing Their way to Their Dreams . . . . . . . . . . . . The Road to States . . . . . . . . . . . . Causing a Racquet . . . A Year Recap of Varsity Sports . What is Your Favorite Sports Memory? . Girls Lacrosse Makes County History

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Get on Our Level . . . . . . . . . . Spinning Towards Your Aspirations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Prom Royalty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bashing to Graduation

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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . College Acceptance: The Struggle’s Real . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Water Wars, a Soaking Tradition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . University versus Community College e

See page 15

Editorial

Policy

Published six times a school year, the student newspaper of J.W. Mitchell High School is a public forum with its student editorial board making all the decisions concerning its contents. Unsigned editorials express the views of the majority of the editorial board.

Letters to the editor are welcomed and will be published as space allows. Letters must be signed, although the staff may withhold the name upon request. The paper reserves the right to edit letters for grammar and clarity, and all letters are subject to laws governing obscenity, libel, privacy and disruption of the school process, as are all contents of the paper.

Opinions of letters are not necessarily those of the staff nor should any opinion expressed in a public forum be construed as the opinion or policy of the school administration, unless attributed.

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Hoofbeat

Contents

16

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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Taking a Gap year vs. Going straight to College

Hoofbeat

Staff

Editors Sophie Sajecki Raleigh Illig Lexi Clark Avery Philion Morgan Fliss Max Trettin Kristina Jautze

editor-in-chief editor-in-chief sports editor lifestyles editor ent./opin. editor news editor ads manager

Staff Reporters

Michelle Cervera Richard Daley Hayley Fliss Bailey Illig Kaitlyn Klein Gianna Knowles Cayleigh Maghe Alyssa Magilligan Emma Rogers Josh Wagner Chris Wilson

Outstanding A farewell quote from a favorite teacher

Senior

Some people spend a good deal of time trying to decide what they want to be or what they want to do in life, but that was you. Even as a sophomore, you knew you were going to serve your country— which is quite remarkable.

Your drive and altruistic nature make you one of my all-time favorite students.

In English II Honors, you were always willing to jump in and take the lead in class discussions, and no matter how busy your schedule, your work was always completed on time and in an exemplary manner.

Congratulations on your admittance to the United States Merchant Marine Academy. You want steering the ship as your truly exemplify the

Photo by Gigante Productions

Se

Austin Jerome Merchant Marine motto: “Acta non verba;” “Deeds, not words.” I wish you much joy and success as you enter this new phase of your journey.

For those times when a bit of inspiration may help, think of these lines from William Henley’s “Invictus”: “I am the master of my fate, I am the captain of my soul.”

Ms. Karen Hall (FAC)

Class of 2018 Top Ten 1

Nina Palmer Co-Valedictorian

College: University of Florida Intended major: Intel. Relations favorite class: AP Capstone

1

The Top Ten give advice for next years’ seniors and share the plans for their future

Anastasia Pavlyuk Co-Valedictorian

College: Georgia Tech Intended major: favorite class: Has enjoyed

2

every class she took, enjoying the helpfulness of every teacher

ADVICE: Live in a balance life.

Participate in extracurricular activities, community service, and perhaps get a job if you have the time. All these activities taught me things that I didn’t learn in the classroom.

3

Madelyn Hickey College: University of South Florida Intended major: Biomed. Science favorite class: AP Psychology

ADVICE: Always do your work and do research on different universities and what programs they offer to help make your college experience more successful.

6

Brianne Seaberg College: University of Florida Intended major: Political Science favorite class:

ADVICE: Don’t join clubs because you think they’ll make you look good for colleges. Do a few things very well, doesn’t matter what it is.

4

Stefano Mahairas College: University of South Florida Intended major: Mech. Engineering favorite class: Physics

ADVICE: Work hard and focus on your goals. Working hard and understanding the high school material will give you a good foundation for college and help you tremendously in your future endeavors.

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Alvin Hughes College: University of Florida Intended major: Mech. Engineering favorite class:

9

Sarah Bickler College: University of Florida Intended major: Health Science favorite class:

ADVICE: If you want a higher GPA, take a lot of AP classes. A good AP class to take is AP Psychology, and don’t take AP science classes because they’re hard.

ADVICE: Make sure you procrastinate as late as possible.

10

Mileen Meyer College: Emory University Intended major: Entrepreneurship favorite class:

ADVICE: overwhelming but it will all be worth it in the end.

Salutatorian

College: University of Virginia Intended major: Political Science favorite class: AP United States

ADVICE: Take initiative. If you’re struggling in a class, ask for help. If you want something, seek it out. There are a myriad of opportunities at Mitchell that you can take advantage of.

5

Sreten Dedic College: University of South Florida Intended major: Computer Science favorite class: AP Microeconomics

ADVICE: Don’t wait for the last minute to do work of any kind. Senior year becomes stressful with many things happening left and right. It is important to keep a good plan for time management.

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Zachary McKinley College: University of Florida Intended major: Mech. Engineering favorite class:

AP United States Government &

ADVICE: Enjoy your senior year and get as involved as possible, don’t get stressed out about school.

Paulina Keim

ADVICE: Go off campus full time.

State College full time and earned 50

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Elizabeth Traina College: Florida State University Intended major: favorite class:

ADVICE: Enjoy every minute of senior year and not hold on to anger or frustration with your friends. You’ll want to look back on senior year with positive memories so stay focused on having a positive attitude.

News

Hoofbeat

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Flashback from the past

A timeline of the major events that happened during 1999 and 2000

PokEmon Cards Released

2 y1 rua r Feb

Jan

Jan

uar

uar y3

y9

1

1999 SUPER BOWL XXXIII

Bill Clinton Acquitted

Ap

ril 2 0

Ma y1

Denver Broncos win

“Spongebob Squarepants” premieres

Feb

Jan u

rua

ary

ry 1

1

1

Columbine Tragedy

Year 2000 Problem

Barclays Bank Explosion

Feb

96th world Series NEW YORK YANKEES WIN

cem De

rua

Oc

ry 1

3

tob

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be r1

26

Last “Peanuts” Comic Released

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The “y2k problem”

George W. Bush wins presidency

2000

Teacher Talk: Words of Wisdom “Like most adults, I have had a plethora of advice. Here are a few of the things I have come across in my 29 years that I have found most helpful: 2. Compound interest: As Einstein said, ‘those who understand interest earn it, those you don’t, pay it.’

3. Be happy with other people’s success. Jealousy is the ugliest emotion.

4. Is my current reality real at all? If you want to have a better understanding of the next stage in your life watch Plato’s “The Allegory of the Cave” on Crash Course.

5. Don’t spit into the wind.”

Mr. John Scott (FAC) “Do your best! There will always be can always call your family or friends for help, advice, or to just talk.”

Ms. Katie Mooney (FAC)

“Freedom can be overwhelming, so stay true to your path, don’t skip your classes and spend your time living a ‘free’ life but instead make sure you always strive to do best.”

Ms. Luanne Hampton (FAC)

“You are about to come to an end of a long journey, and you are about to begin another journey which will be a bit longer. As you being the next phase of your away opportunities that come your way in the career you choose. Work hard, have fun, and always look years ahead as you set high goals for yourself.

Hopefully you have made close friends in high school. Keep in touch with best friends all through your life. Keep strong bonds with family.

Use good judgement and common sense as you make decisions about your personal and professional life.

Good luck to you all! You deserve the very best!”

Mr. Ed Braddy (FAC)

“Don’t take for granted what you have in the here and now. We all too often become caught up in our future selves, dreaming about destined careers, saving up to buy new things, or imagining what life will be like years down the road. Although these dreams are important, we must not forget, it is what we do at this very moment that truly matters.

So remember to live in the moment, make beautiful memories of the present, and appreciate what you have right in front of you!”

Mr. Steven Burnes (FAC)

Fighting the good fight for the U.S.A. Sophie sajecki EDITOR-in-chief Where seniors go after high school varies among the attendants of the graduation ceremony. For some, enlisting into various branches of the military proves to be the strongest option. For Justin Crispino (‘18), programs at the school helped solidify this decision.

April 1 and I leave on August 1.

My four years in JROTC helped tremendously by providing me with two ranks up off the bat. I hope to go special forces once I’m enlisted,” Crispino said.

Each branch includes different ways to get involved. While enlisting in the United States Marine Corps, Lydia Dubeau (‘18) developed an idea of how she will contribute in the military.

“Once I enlist I hope to get into embassy duty. Only few Marines are selected for embassy duty and what they do is guard the U.S. embassies around the world and they even get to meet

Military bound Seniors

that’s pretty cool,” Dubeau said. which gives those individuals decision.

“The Marines will allow me the age of 18 instead of 21.

The military will also pay for my college once I’m in for 2 years, and I am hoping to get into the University of Maryland to get my Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice,” Dubeau said.

As senior year comes to an end, more students decide that enlisting is the best decision for

Ariyanna Jurkowski Hunter Jividen Christopher Carlson

Joshua Hubbartt Lukas Gendron Anthony Trancho Lydia Dubeau Michael McDonald

Carl Butler Triston Georgianni Alexander Jon

Ryan McCabe Gerardo Castano Taylor Mack Julian Gonzalez Landus Moser

Ryan Purviance Michael Smith Justin Crispino Tyler Johnson Justin Locklear Douglas Mitchell Kaylee Yerger

the costs.

Will you rush a sorority or fraternity?

Photos by Kristina Jautze

on the

Yes, because it would be a good experince and you get really involved in the community and the school.

Gabrielle

join a frat because it’s a big waste of money.

Brian Spicer (‘18)

Yes, I want to meet new people and create bonds.

Jordan Frontera (‘18)

just don’t care enough.

I probably won’t join one, I think it’ll be a waste of time

Katie Cox (‘18)

Bryanna Philips (‘18)

We’re moving on and starting fresh Senior year ends for many graduates as they experience excitement and readiness to start fresh in college Hayley fliss Staff reporter As senior year comes to an end, graduate’s excitement builds as they plan for future achievements. This includes their enthusiastic approach to the real world and the realities of life.

For instance, Shane Livingston (‘18) plans to expand his relationships to allow him to be successful in college.

“I hope to attain an outgoing

personality and to become more present and future habits will social, so I affect their can make new success in I hope to attain an friends college. outgoing personality and and have “I wish connections to enhance to become more social, with people,” my studying so I can make new friends Livingston said. habits, so I and have connections Seniors such can avoid with people. as Abigail procrastination Shane Steinbrueck and [achieve Livingston (‘18) (‘18) and Alana high] grades,” Cruickshank Steinbrueck, (‘18) recognize how their who plans to major in psychology

at Florida State University, said.

Cruickshank, who will attend the University of Florida, plans to move on and start fresh in a major in biology along the premedicine track.

“I am looking forward to making new friends and making new memories and moving on with my future. I am excited to see where I end up,” Cruickshank said.

Livingston, a future freshman at St. Petersburg College, leaves

for Clearwater on August 25 to attend the fall semester.

“I am looking forward to a new experience, taking on bigger responsibilities, and becoming more of my own,” Livingston said.

Adventure awaits seniors, as college can be an opportunity to socialize and meet new peers in the process of learning.

Class of 2018

Best Memories “Rodeo Rally was one of my favorite senior memories. It was fun practicing as a team before hand, and we had an all around great time. We did a lot better than we thought we would and got to have a great time with the rest of the seniors.”

Nick Piccione (‘18)

“This was one of my favorite senior memories because it was right after my last high school lacrosse game ever and it was just so awesome to see how far our team had come and that we made history and set the bar high for future teams.”

“Handing out gifts to the nursing home at Christmas time was my favorite memory.

The residents were all so excited.”

Sarah Shannon (‘18)

Sarah Bulthuis (‘18)

“My favorite high school memory was getting to go to San Francisco my senior year. It was a great experience not only because I got to travel across the country with my best friends but also because we got to make new memories in our last year together before all going off to college.”

“Cameo Trocola was Little Red Riding Hood for Halloween, I was The Big Bad Wolf as Grandma, and Hannah Merceron was the Huntsman. It was a super cute costume group, and we just went trick-or-treating. senior memories.”

Trinity Heller (‘18) “This year I’ve been average

“My favorite memory was going with my friends to cow appreciation

at least an 85 on a test this year. One night I studied so hard and I ended up getting a 95 on the test and it was really nice reaching that goal and feeling that sense of accomplishment in a class I

Alyssa Magilligan (‘18) “Grad Bash was a favorite senior memory because I got the opportunity to hang out with friends that I don’t usually get to go to theme parks with.”

Marygrace

Catrett (‘18) “My favorite memory is going on a dinner cruise in Clearwater with all of my closest friends to kick off our last year of high school. I loved it so much because they’re such a great group of people to be around and always make me happy.”

Raleigh Illig (‘18)

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Hoofbeat

Justin Seecharan (‘18)

LIfestyles

and getting 31 free sandwiches.”

“This was my favorite high school memory because my friends and I went to a Lightning game for my birthday and I got a shout out.”

Bruno Colon (‘18)

Chris Wilson (‘18)

“Taking Lauren Wright to prom is my favorite high school memory.

She made my senior prom the best night it could have been. When I saw her in her dress my heart melted.”

Ben Davis (‘18)

“My favorite memory from high school is when Megan Stone and I went to states as alternates our freshman year.

It was such an amazing experience to have as a freshman.”

Madelyn Hickey (‘18) “We had a photoshoot for our senior pictures and we went to Honeymoon Island.

It was so fun because we were able to capture our friendship at one of our favorite places where we have made a bunch of memories.”

Taylor Fox (‘18)

“My favorite memories from this year would revolve around my Capstone family. We worked all year focusing on our research projects and delving into topics that we found interesting and relative to the world around us. This program has been so important to my growth as a student and I am

to watch the Lightning play against the Bruins in the playoffs. Hockey has been something that all of my friends get together to watch and being with them made the game even more fun.”

research grow in college next year.”

Jill Peters (‘18)

Becca Roberson (‘18)

“Being able to go concert with one of my best friends truly makes everything so much more fun. We are already getting ready for our second concert soon.”

Angela

Novakovic (‘18) “Meeting my best friends junior year was my favorite memory of high school. They have

“My favorite senior memory was winning the district championship. Not only was it our second year in a row beating our district rivals and such an experience, but we did it in honor of Lillia Morris, which made the win all the more meaningful.”

in high school was one of my favorite memories. I love the sport and it was such a great experience.”

the better and I am so thankful to have formed such a tight knit bond.”

Lexi Clark (‘18)

Garret Hobbs (‘18)

Sophie Sajecki (‘18)

“Track was one of my favorite memories because I broke the school record for triple jump my sophomore year. It was a big accomplishment and it felt very rewarding for the hard work that I put in each day.”

“Being a part of the news crew was the best way to start my days. I loved making videos, anchoring, but even more, creating friendships through something I really enjoyed. Those are the times I’ll never forget and it will always be one of my favorite memories.”

Demi Asensio (‘18)

Millennia Mejia (‘18) “Grad Bash was one of my favorite nights this year. It was kind of a time when I realized that there aren’t going to be many more nights where my friends and I can all be together and it kind of hit me that we’re all going to start a new chapter in our lives.”

“Going to homecoming with all of my friends has to be one of my favorite senior memories. They always make it really fun even when the dance gets to be boring.”

Parker Rendell (‘18)

Troy Scholz (‘18)

“One of my favorite memories was the Christmas party that my friend had. It was so much fun and I got to spend time with people who I don’t usually talk to but would say hi to in the hallways. It’s great because we have something more relatable to talk about now.”

“I would say that the Homecoming football game of my favorite memories from senior year because our team was undefeated. It was such a good game and so much fun in the stands with Stang Gang.”

Vanessa Moyers (‘18)

Kristina Sinibaldi (‘18)

LIfestyles

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Hoofbeat

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Senior Superlatives

Teacher’s Pet

eLizabeth Traina & Parker Rendell

Best To bring Home to Parents

Most Stylish

Adis KukuljaC & Katelyn Fitzpatrick

Dynamic Duo

ashley coppin & Austin jerome

Most Talented

Erica Mitchell & michael wilkins

Hailey bunker & Nicole Fellabaum

Most Athletic Raleigh Illig & Jakob Mattos

Cutest COuple breanna zinger & evan acevedo

Biggest Heart Demi Asensio & Jordan Garcia

Class CLown

Molly Boland & Myles Megna

Most likely to succeed Paulina Keim & Sreten Dedic

Worst case of senioritis Niko COnnetti & Thuyen Troung

Most likely to Become famous

Victoria Arvanitis & jake hektoen

Most School Spirit Gabrielle Chamberlin & Robert Dawson

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Photos by Lexi Clark, Raleigh Illig, Mallory Coleman, Izzy Bradley, Nick Piccone, and Tom “Pops� Mewborn

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Sports Feature

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13

The road to states

Seniors on track work hard to qualify for the state championships

Richard Daley Staff reporter As the track season quickly came to a close, seniors diligently worked to make states the experiences that will stick with them for a lifetime. Isabel Oliveto (‘18) placed 3rd in the 1600 and 4th in the 3200 at districts and made it to states in both events placing 23rd in “These four years have made me the runner I am and I’m looking forward to what’s next.

Every early morning long run, every weight session in the gym, every ice bath, every practice

in 90 degree weather; it’s all prepared me for states,” Oliveto said.

In an effort to qualify for states, seniors continuously practiced and worked hard. Once reaching that goal, Ariyanna Jurkowski (‘18) placed 2nd in the state in discus while setting a school record of 133 feet, 6 inches.

“I have not stopped track practice ever since it started last year. So all throughout the past year I have been practicing nonstop. Other than that I go out, I practice twice a day on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. And then I usually practice 2 or more hours each day,” Jurkowski said.

Alizea McClanahan (‘18) made it to states in the shot put after

placing 4th at regionals. At the state championship she placed 21st with a throw of 33 feet 7.25 “It gave me a lot of adrenaline going into it. Going out there I was the smallest one out there so I had a lot to prove. I’m happy I made it to states my senior year because it was a big accomplishment and I never really had a bad track meet and I did well at my last one,” McClanahan said.

Raleigh Illig (‘18) placed 2nd in pole vault with 10’6” at districts and regionals qualifying her for states, hosted by University of North Florida on May 4-5.

“Being able to compete at such a high level with the best

Isabel Oliveto (‘18) runs her 3200m run at the FHSAA regionals meet, qualifying her for the state championship. Raleigh Illig (‘18) pole valuted at the district meet qualifying her for regionals. Ariyanna Jurkowski (‘18) claims a spot on the podium, earning her 2nd place medal at states. Photos by Bailey Illig.

girls in the state was such an eye opener for me. It drove me to work harder and rise to the best of my potential so that when I show up to states and nationals, I give people a run for their money,” Illig said.

Seniors on the track team work with a purpose to excel at experiences and memories that they make will stick with them as they prepare to move into the next chapter of their lives.

What was your best sports memory from high school?

Photos by Josh Wagner

on the

Senior night was really memorable for us, we got a chance to get close to our teammates and really enjoy the last couple games of our season.

Kristina Sinibaldi (‘18) Varsity Lacrosse

My favorite high school sports memory was weightlifting team won the conference meet for

Levi Boler (‘18) Weightlifting

My favorite high school soccer memory is going to

Winning regionals my junior year and advancing

goal, I was playing right back and the ball came across the middle, I just took a touch and put it in the back of the net.

states along with getting awarded with defensive player of the year as a senior.

Christopher Swanhart (‘18) Varsity Soccer

Dalanie Guerra (‘18) Varsity Soccer

My favorite sports memory is walking into the gym everyday seeing the people I’ve played with since seventh grade.

Teresa Blakely (‘18)

Varsity Basketball

Causing a Racquet

Second Place

Ms. Hinmon (FAC)

Brianne Seaberg (‘18) Mr. Scott (FAC)

First Place Aidan McCall (‘19) Ms. Hinmon (FAC)

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sports

Third Place

Sainandan Challagundla (‘18) Ms. Mendieta (FAC)

Photos by Emmersyn Chefero

The 8th annual Golden Raquet Tennis Tournament brings students and faculty together in healthy competition

Girls’ lacrosse makes county history

Hard work accomplished by the girls’ lacrosse team leads them to make history in Pasco County at the District Championships talented,” Sarah Shannon (‘18) said.

Josh Wagner Staff reporter The girls’ varsity lacrosse team made history on April 19, by reaching the district championship game at Steinbrenner High School. The team earned a spot by beating Sickles High School.

“I think a lot of girls were not expecting how far we would go, but our team was really strong and we all worked hard and played like a family. I was not really shocked [that we made it that far] because I knew that everyone on the team is really

of 8-6 overall with a 3-2 record in the district. When the team went to the playoffs, they won their against Sickles by a score of 11-10.

“That game was such an amazing feeling, especially after time we played them, it was the worst feeling ever and we did not want to feel that way again,” Shannon said.

The team then advanced to

where they faced off against Steinbrenner High School. The girls lost in a 12-7 defeat.

“A lot of the girls were sad [that we lost the championship game], but we turned it around and we were really proud of ourselves for how far we took it was really proud of our team,” Sydney Britton (‘18) said. and what they will miss the most. sisters everyday at practice and growing with them. I love them all so much and thank them for

everything they have done for me,” Angela Novakovic (‘18) said.

With nine seniors graduating after this season, it opens the opportunity for under classmen to step up seniors.

2018 Seniors

Trinity Heller Kristina SInabaldi Sydney Britton Talia Diaz Taylor FOx Sarah Shannon Angela Novakovic SOphie Sajecki Brie Chamberlin on the team, I think there is potential [for the team moving forward,]” Britton said.

A year recap of varsity sports Girls’ Cross Country

Boys’ Cross Country

Girls’ Golf

Boys’ Golf

Cheerleading

1st at Conference, 4th at Districts, 6th at Regionals, 10th at States

2nd at Conference, 2nd at Districts, 9th at Regionals

2-1-1 2nd at Conference, 1st at Districts

7-3 1st at Conference, 1st at Districts, 3rd at Regionals

1st at Best of Pasco, 1st at Regionals, 3rd at States, 10th at Nationals

Football

Girls’ Swim & Dive

Boys’ Swim & Dive

Volleyball

Girls’ Basketball

Boys’ Basketball

Girls’ Soccer

Boys’ Soccer

Girls’ Wrestling

Boys’ Wrestling

Girls’ Weightlifting

Boys’ Weightlifting

Girls’ Lacrosse

11-1

9-18

Baseball

19-6 1st at Districts

Boys’ Lacrosse 5-8

6-2

19-2

Softball

6-1

17-7-4

20-8 1st at Districts

2nd at Conference, 3rd at Districts, 4th at Regionals

Girls’ Tennis

Boys’ Tennis

10-3 1st at Conference

8-4

22-9

8-16

3-1 4th at Conference

Girls’ Track & Field

1st at Conference, 2nd at Districts, 3rd at Regionals, 22nd at States

sports

16-9

8-16

8-6

Boys’ Track & Field

1st at Conference, 5th at Districts, 23rd at Regionals

Hoofbeat

15

Graduation Information Graduation Practice

Graduation Ceremony

May 22nd Practice in the Gym from 8:30 A.M., to 1 P.M.

May 27th Seniors arrive at 5 P.M. Ceremony starts at 6 P.M.

May 23rd Practice in the Gym from 8:30 A.M., to 1 P.M.

Attendance is Mandatory for graduation

Congratulations Class of 2018 from the Hoofbeat!!!

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Seniors who have taken steps towards their dream careers while still in school Michele Cervea Staff Reporter It is wise for students to have a plan after high school. During these four years several seniors found careers that interested them and all plan on entering a career fresh out of school, while also enrolled in college.

Giselle Orama (‘18) has been in the medical academy since her sophomore year and plans to pursue a degree in the medical feild. After being in the academy and learning what being a nurse is really about, Orama decided that is what she wanted to do with her future.

“I think it’s a good experience, a stepping stone for what I actually want to do. It’s a good experience to get my foot in the door and start early,” Orama said.

Alyssa Buonanno (‘18) has been in the medical academy for three years. She plans on working on the pediatric unit at Mease Countryside as a CNA while going to school to become a nurse.

“I have gone to different schools and done health

screenings and being able to have different academy days throughout being in the program and learning different jobs within the medical feild,” Buonanno said.

Another way that students have jump started their careers early is by attending the Marchman Technical Program.

Jake Hektoen (‘18) has been at Marchman for two years and just received a position on a Clint Eastwood movie as a paid Location Production Assistant for a Hollywood production.

“Originally I was based as an internship-like job, but the contact who had been working with producers to get me on set revealed that I would be accepted as a paid Location Production Assistant. I am very humble and grateful for the opportunity because I owe a great deal to so many people who have contributed to my success, and there has never seemed to be a shortage of

career early in her life. Schumm entered in a competition through her business class where she had to create her own company and present it to the district.

“I am majoring in dietetics so I am hoping that I can start a small health food business or program on my campus until graduation where I plan to start my own practice. I worked really hard for this project, and I felt honored because my business is something I am incredibly passionate about,” Schumm said.

All of these students have worked towards their career goal through high school and are accomplishing great things at a young age. The experience they have gathered over the last few

I’ve walked,” Hektoen said.

Lexxus Schumm (‘18) is another senior who was given the opportunity to pursue her dream

them to start their dream careers right Top: Lexxus Schumm (‘18) receiving her Entreprenuer Scholarship from Pasco Eduacation out of high school. Foundation. Bottom Left: Alyssa Buannano (‘18) volunteering at a hospital for the medical

program. Bottom Right: Jake Hektoen (‘18) working on his movie submission for the job position at Hollywood. Photos provided by Schumm, Buannano, and Hektoen

Spinning towards your aspirations Kaylin Wilkins (‘18) participated in a National Colorguard competition passion I will continue to pursue for as long as I can. My end goal is to make University of Central Florida’s Colorguard because As new graduates begin again with their future in the real world, this sport has become a part of who I am as a person. As they pursue their passions. well as to follow in my coaches To make her dreams a reality, footsteps because he’s become a Kaylin Wilkins (‘18) joined the very strong role model for me,” Colts Drum & Bugle Corps USA, Wilkins said. based out of Iowa. Drum Corps To get members to this level of is a musical skill, Mr. Joel ensemble of Quina (FAC), instrumentalists My end goal is to make and colorguard high quality University of Central on an outdoor coaches as well Florida’s Colorguard as encourage because this sport has compete the members become a part of who I in many to want to help am as a person. competitions, each other get parades, and better. Previous Kaylin festivals. Wilkins graduates Wilkins (‘18) went to a tryout pursued in October and membership was given a in Drum Corps as musicians, callback on April 26- May 1, for however Wilkins remains one of the summer season. only a few students to pursue For Wilkins, she had to work colorguard. consistently, practice after “My advice [to Wilkins], from practice, to get to this point being around the activity for so and the saying “practice makes long, is to take really great care perfect” applies to her work of herself and to know that it’s ethic. going to be hard sometimes, but “Colorguard has always been it is worth the experience to see my safety blanket. It became a

Emma Rogers

staff reporter

what you are able to do,” Quina said.

After four years of practice, Wilkins puts her skills to the test by going out for Drum Corps.

She learned many life lessons from the sport; she plans to use them to guide herself through life.

“Just take [the season] chunk by chunk because the days are going to change and there’s always something that’s not going to go how it’s supposed to go. It’s all about how you handle it, it’s more mental than physical for Drum Corps, for sure,” Mr. Tony Perez (FAC) said.

After receiving a contract to be the season by practicing and traveling all over the country performing their show. When the season is over, she plans on starting her college career at University of Central Florida.

As well as trying out to be part of their colorguard, using her knowledge and skills from Colts Drum & Bugle Corps USA. Kaylin Wilkins (‘18) grabbing equipment from the Colts’ trailer for her callback Photo provided by Kaylin Wilkins

Feature

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Prom Royalty Morgan Fliss Editor In the ballroom at Innisbrook, students spent prom night in and burlap centerpieces on the tables and vibrant lights around the room. When announced as prom queen, Demi Asensio (‘18) smiled at Mr. Ed Braddy (FAC), the Student Council Advisor for the last 18 years.

“I was shocked, surprised, humbled, excited, happy and beyond grateful. It was honestly a moment I will never forget,” Asensio said. crowned Ashley Coppin (‘18).

“It was an honor being voted princess at this year’s prom,” Coppin said.

with pride, being able to represent his school.

“It felt great to be named king. I love being able to represent the best school in the county; when I was named king the feeling was even better,” Garcia said.

Prince Austin Jerome (‘18) thought it was a good experience and something he will never forget.

“It was pretty cool being voted as prince. It is nice to see classmates recognize you, and respect you in a way that they vote for you in a situation like that,” Jerome said.

After the crowning, students enjoying the rest of the night in the rustic garden.

Prom Royalty: Jordan Garcia (King), Demi Asensio (Queen), Ashley Coppin

(Princess), Austin Jerome (Prince), Raleigh Illig, Gabrielle Chamberlin, Gabriela Chalela, Tabitha Gutowski, Breanna Zinger, Bruno Colon, Brian Horsburgh, Adis Kukuljac, Levi Boler, and Evan Acevedo. All photos provided by Gigante Productions

“There was a lot of people at prom with pretty good food and I really enjoyed being with all my friends,” Jada Nazzaro (‘19) said.

“The venue for prom was really nice and the experience was great,” Michael Loduice (‘18) said.

“The venue was very beautiful, a lot prettier than last year’s venue. The food was absolutely delicious and scrumptious, but the music could have been a lot better to be honest,” Austin James (‘18) said.

“Prom was set up in a really nice area and I got to hangout with my friends and had a really good time,” McKenna Cooper (‘18) said.

Bashing to graduation Students who participated in Grad Bash this year share their experiences alyssa Magilligan Staff reporter As the end of the school year quickly approaches, senior traditions begin. One of these traditions is Grad Bash at Universal Resort and Islands of Adventure in Orlando, and seniors look forward to this night starting from the beginning of the school year. Universal shuts down the park to all outside guests and allows only the Class of 2018 to enjoy rides, food, live music, games, and more.

Grad Bash enables seniors to experience rides and attractions based on different television shows, movies, and classic characters. Every year, more than 8,000 students attend

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throughout the course of a few weekends. This year it took place on April 28th for Mitchell students.

“I really enjoyed grad bash because it was super fun and the lines weren’t too horrible.

It was fun being able to go out on my own with friends and being able to celebrate our accomplishments by just being teens without it being so formal,” Hailey Bunker (‘18) said.

Universal and Islands of Adventure combined, both offer more than 25 rides and attractions that seniors enjoyed during Grad Bash. With the heavy crowds, the length of the lines varied on the type of ride.

While some lines got up to 90 minutes long, others stayed at a

minutes long.

“I do think some of the lines could have been shorter. My favorite ride was The Hulk and that one is worth the wait because it is one of the main rides at the park,” Christopher Thomas (‘18) said.

When the dates of Grad Bash dress code and what could be brought into the park, students possessed different opinions on the rules. While some thought they were reasonable, others thought they could have been more lenient. However this played no role in whether or not this year’s seniors recommend the event to next year’s seniors.

“The only thing I would change

Entertainment

Smiling to the camera, seniors Maxwell Trettin (‘18), Cameo Trocola(‘18), Hailey Bunker(‘18), Taryn Kupczyk (‘18), Nicole Fellabaum (‘18), and Abigail Steinbrueck (‘18) all pose for a picture at Universal Studies Orlando during their Grad Bash trip on April 28th and 29th. Photo provided by Maxwell Trettin

about it is the dress code for both the school and Universal because it was hot and being able to wear tank tops would have been nice. I would still recommend it to next year’s seniors though. It is a great way to meet other people and your hard work by having fun and

riding coasters,” Bunker said.

As two o’clock rolled around on the morning of April 29, seniors began boarding the buses to come back home, realizing that Grad Bash was one of the last major events being a high school student, before their graduation date on May 27th.

College acceptance: the struggle’s real

A staff editorial on how the college acceptance process has become a lot harder over the years, leading to stress on students Morgan Fontana Guest Columnist The college application and acceptance process has an overall negative effect on students. Most parents will tell you how easy it was for them to apply into college, saying “We never had to do this!” But the application process is much harder than it used to be.

For example, colleges claim who have a lot of service hours, leadership positions, and above They say they do not want the straight A student. Then those students who are considered

colleges they want.

Another example is testing. So much is riding on the SAT/ACT for students. Without a good test score, a student could be deprived of a scholarship and/or acceptance into the college they worked so hard for. If a student is not a good test taker they could be out of luck. These are all problems that parents didn’t have to deal with when they were applying for college.

A NBC study shows that the stress of teens ranks a 5.8 on a 10 point scale. Adults have a 5.1 stress level on the same scale.

Another contributing factor to students’ stress levels is what happens at home. A stressful home life does not always mean

that a student’s parents are overbearing, always arguing or always yelling at their kid. Any home life can be stressful to a student.

Students approaching college do not just stress about their acceptance.

They also stress about how their college decision affects themselves and their family.

Telling students that they do not have anything to be stressed about is not a good way to help students during this crucial time

in their life.

All students have stress of varying levels, especially students approaching college, and it is having a very negative effect on students. Some of these include decreased mental health and loss of healthy sleeping and eating habits, which will affect students long term.

One reason for colleges want their application rate to go higher, but their acceptance rate to be lower. And with increasing

application fees, colleges are still making a lot of money. All of this makes sense, when you look at college from a business standpoint. way to make their acceptance process easier and less stressful for students, while still making the amount of money they need. Colleges could keep their prices the same, but make their requirements for acceptance easier or at least more truthful. rounded students, then they students. Perhaps the best solution to this problem is simply the truth.

Water wars, a soaking tradition

Players that participated in this year’s annual “Water Wars” share both positive and negative views on this soaking tradition Gianna Knowles Staff reporter After a long day of work at Publix in the Shoppes at Trinity Lakes, Maxwell Trettin (‘18) walked from the store entrance to his car on the opposite end of the parking lot. On the way there, Trettin noticed a green Jeep with the headlights on.

Coming from behind it, Shane Livingston (‘18) rushed towards Trettin. Livingston cornered Trettin, taking the shot with his water gun, soaking the back of Trettin’s uniform. This water attack is part of a senior tradition

called Water Wars. Between April expected that participants read 11 and 19, twenty teams from and agree to the terms. Breanna the Class of Zinger (‘18), 2018 tried captain of team to get each one, explains her I think it is a good event for other out opinion on how the seniors to get together with one it was ran this and play together, but it’s squirt of a year. also bad because it’s all water gun.

“Everyone that up to the students being Plenty of was in charge honest and how they run controversy of water wars and scandals this year made things. followed it terrible for the Cameron the game seniors; they Benitez (‘18) this year as made sure the well as the game turned out years before. The event comes in favor. I just hope whoever runs with a long list of rules and it is it next year cares about keeping

the school tradition fun and not all about winning,” Zinger said.

This year, the game came with a lot of accusations of cheating making it stressful for the people in charge and students involved.

Cameron Benitez (‘18) dropped out of the game because it just wasn’t for him.

“I think it is a good event for the seniors to get together and play together, but it is also a bad thing because it’s all up to the students being honest and how they run things,” Benitez said.

Some say, that even though students and staff have shown the negative side of the game,

there should still be a chance given to the upcoming seniors.

“Although last year it was crazy, I don’t think another senior event should be cancelled based off of what happened the year before.

I love Water Wars. Not every school does it and it’s a fun way to relieve stress after school with graduation coming up soon,” Jasmin Clemmons (‘18) said.

Many students have varying opinions about the purpose and fun of this simple game.

Even though there are always problems the year before, it has been a senior tradition since the year of 2015.

University versus community college

Incoming college students share their views on their reasons for choosing to attend a university or state/community college alyssa Magilligan With graduation just around the corner, seniors begin to prepare for their lives after high school. For many of these students, this includes continuing their education away from home at universities while others decide on staying home to attend community colleges.

“I’m going to the University of Central Florida because I fell in love with the campus. It has a great medical program for me, as well as biomedical sciences, which I will be majoring in on the said.

the University of South Florida and Florida State University provide more opportunities to make friends through roommates, fraternities, and sororities. Students can live on or near campus, which allows more socialization time, while community college students simply go to class and leave university is being able to meet a lot of people. You are away from home and it’s really the time to be responsible and learn how to be on your own,” Gandhi said.

Although universities provide

their own. Classes are much more intimate, and this gives professors and students the advantage of

them the chance to explore fully committing to a major,” Jessica Mason (‘18) said.

When it comes to college, money may always be the deciding factor between

ass of 2018 Cl

learning instead of being in a full lecture hall.

Professors and administrators have less students to watch over and keep track of, which gives them the opportunity to get to know their students better than they would with larger class sizes.

“Community colleges can

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Staff reporter

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university or a community college.

Even though most

aid, it only lessens the tuition cost by a few thousand dollars each year. Paying for tuition, room and board, books, and other fees add up after years

Opinions

of college, and many students are not able to pay those fees.

If money is an issue, community college is a better option. For community colleges in Florida, the average tuition is just under $2,000 per semester, compared to an average of over $6,000 per semester for large universities.

“Going to a community or state college is a great option for kids who don’t have the means still want to get the same quality education,” Mason said.

Seniors graduating at the end of May look forward to continuing their education, no matter if they attend a university or a community college.

Hoofbeat

19

Filling in the gap Some students graduate high school and start off their adult life by traveling the world or joining the military Michelle Cervera Staff reporter

be taking college classes but

A gap year is a period taken by a student as a break between high school and higher education. Students

as attending a school called

or to gain life experiences. In fact, according to a study by the Council of International Educational Exchange (CIEE),

be enrolled as an exchange and hopefully get not only an culture,“ Page said. a popular option for students

gap years. Taking a year off personal growth. graduation, but I want to [take the ASVAB, a test students are required to take before joining high enough score on that so I can qualify for the job I want in said.

With a year to spare, a gap to explore their options and want to pursue. According to an Australian study published

world off their bucket list.

Gap in the future Taking a gap year affects students negatively in their pursuit of an education Richard Daley Staff reporter With the end of the school year quickly approaching seniors interested in pursuing a college going straight to college instead of taking a gap year. Taking a furthering their education.

“If you decide to take a year

students that take a gap year and experiencing other cultures work experience. the year, and really get to

learned in high school. Also, if you took any AP classes or and it would force you to retake the classes. I also think taking

Kostoff (‘18) said. said.

www.cnbc.com

college.

“If you take a gap year you are going to start working and then when you start college you are not going to want to quit your job. So at that point you now college and your job and I think

Tobin (‘18) said.

Taking a year off after graduating high school of students who diligently work for their success in adulthood.

they take a year off.

plans on studying abroad and

Of students thought of taking a gap year

Carolina Madriz (‘18) said.

Likewise, if students do not plan accordingly prior to

prefer one or the other. People are either going to quit their job,

when your young, and while you can; I really took that to

and opportunities to the students that are willing to

looking forward to since I was really young so I personally would go straight to college

because I would get used to not

into another culture as well as

Psychology, taking a gap year is

“I considered taking a gap year but I decided against it because I just really wanted to go into

Of students who took a gap year, went back to school within a year

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