Recovery & Resilience ~ OakIgnite

IGNITE

RECOVERY & RESILIENCE VI SOSLU E3 1

resilience [ri-zil-jəns] noun • English A quality that allows those who are knocked down by life to come back stronger than ever. Rather than letting failure drain you, find a way to rise from the ashes.

Volume 3

EDITOR’S LETTER Writing the letter for this academic year’s first ever issue of Ignite has me in a whirlwind of emotions.

I’m happy. Despite a late start, we were able to put together an incredibly talented team, and put out an amazing creative product with them in less than 2 months.

I’m astonished. Drafting an entire magazine issue in the time we had was no small feat, and I’m still impressed that we pulled this off.

I’m grateful, for my incredible team. Our Editorial Board, our staff, and our Teachers-in-Charge, Ms. Geetika Kapoor and Ms. Ritika Gulgulia; thank you for all the hard work you’ve put in. Most of all, I’m grateful for my Deputy Editor-In-Chief, Aditi Earla. This issue would not have come out if it was not for you.

But more than anything, I’m excited. This issue is but a taste of what’s to come for Ignite. There’s so much in store for the magazine, and I can’t wait to have it start with Vol. 3, Issue 1: Recovery & Resilience!

Signing Off, Anish Raja Editor-In-Chief 2023-2024

OAK INSIGHTS

EMBARKING ON A ROYAL TRAIL

By Vanshi Karthikeyan

In the vibrant tapestry of learning experiences at Oakridge, the annual national trip stands out as a pinnacle of exploration, cultural immersion, and camaraderie. This year, students from grades 9 to 10 embarked on a remarkable journey to Udaipur, Kumbhalgarh, Mount Abu, and Ahmedabad, transcending the boundaries of textbooks and classrooms. The trip not only offered a chance to witness the rich heritage and natural beauty of these destinations but also fostered a sense of unity and shared adventure among the students.

Udaipur: The City of Lakes and Palaces The expedition commenced in the enchanting city of Udaipur, fondly known as the 'Venice of the East.' As the sun painted the sky with hues of orange and pink, students wandered through the historic corridors of the City Palace, where the echoes of Rajasthan's royal past whispered enchanting tales. The serene boat ride on Lake Pichola offered students a surreal view of the City Palace, nestled amidst the tranquil waters, and the Jag Mandir Island Palace standing proudly against the azure sky. They also visited the great memorial of the populous king Maharana Pratap Singh. We sat around and played traditional games in the Queen’s Palace- ‘ Sahelion Ki Bari’.

Kumbhalgarh: Exploring the Mighty Fort The next stop was the majestic Kumbhalgarh Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the epitome of Rajputana architecture. The fort's massive walls, stretching across 36 kilometers, stood as guardians of a bygone era. Climbing its ramparts, the enthusiastic group marveled at the panoramic views of the Aravalli Range and the surrounding countryside, reminding them of the heroic tales of the past carved into its stones.

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As they bid farewell to these extraordinary destinations, what they carried back home transcended mere memories. They carried back a tapestry woven with threads of knowledge, friendship, and cultural appreciation. This was not just a trip; it was a transformative experience that broadened perspectives, deepened understanding, and fueled thirst for knowledge. Each moment, each discovery, and each new connection was a brushstroke on the canvas of the students’ minds, creating a masterpiece of unforgettable experiences.

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Mount Abu: A Tranquil Retreat in the Aravallis Nestled amidst the lush greenery of the Aravalli Range, Mount Abu welcomed eager exploreres with open arms. The cool breeze and scenic landscapes provided the perfect backdrop for moments of introspection and self- discovery.

Dilwara Jain Temples, with their intricate marble carvings, left them in awe of the architectural brilliance of ancient India. Nestled amidst the bustling cityscape, the Brahmakumari’s Peace Park stands as a serene oasis, inviting visitors into a realm of peacefulness and spiritual rejuvenation.

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OAKRIDGE MUN 2023: A SPECTACULAR JOURNEY OF DIPLOMACY AND DANCE

By Sneha Jalan

In the not-so-distant past, Oakridge International School, Gachibowli, played host to the much-anticipated Oakridge MUN 2023, a three-day extravaganza of intellect, diplomacy, and, of course, dance! Chapter XIII of this esteemed Model United Nations conference brought together over 600 students from more than 30 schools, setting the stage for a memorable and enriching experience. While the focus was firmly on global awareness and diplomacy, it wasn't all business; the event concluded with a thrilling social night.

The theme of Oakridge MUN 2023, "Instilling global awareness in young minds," was aptly chosen to inspire the future generation to address global issues with a sense of responsibility and diplomacy. The conference aimed to equip these young minds with the skills and knowledge to become future leaders and change-makers.

One of the highlights of the event was the presence of esteemed dignitaries: Mr. JRK Rao, IAS (Retd) from the National Institute for Smart Government, who graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, and Mr. Mir Mustafa Ali Hasan, Executive Division - UN Climate Change in Bonn, Germany, who added prestige as the Guest of Honour. Their insights and experiences were invaluable to the delegates, setting a high standard for the conference.

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The event began with an inspiring address from the school's Principal, who highlighted the significance of events like Oakridge MUN in shaping the minds of young leaders. The introduction of the Executive Board and the Secretariat members further signalled that this conference was nothing short of exceptional in terms of organization and execution.

The essence of Oakridge MUN lies in providing a platform for passionate young minds to discuss global issues of immense significance. It nurtures the leaders of tomorrow, equipping them with the skills and knowledge necessary to address these challenges and bring about meaningful change. Throughout the event, delegates engaged in intense debates, negotiations, and resolutions, all of which aimed to inspire a greater sense of global awareness and unity.

However, it wasn't all serious business. As the conference drew to a close, the delegates had a chance to unwind and celebrate their accomplishments at the much-awaited Social Night. This dance party was an occasion for everyone to let their hair down and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, creating lasting memories with their newfound friends.

The success of Oakridge MUN 2023 wouldn't have been possible without the generous support of its sponsors– Cream Stone, Fashion Yatra, Tibcon Capacitors, Sreenidhi, Buffalo Wild Wings, Tatva, Srini Food Park, MPL Steel Pipes, and Luminous Group all contributed to making this event a resounding success. Their commitment to promoting education and global awareness was commendable and played a crucial role in the conference's success.

Throughout the conference, delegates engaged in spirited debates, negotiated resolutions, and gained a deeper understanding of complex global issues such as the discussion of the purpose of the Bharat Nyaya Sanhita or the current status of the Israel-Palestine conflict in light of recent events as well as the Protection of women rights on sexual violence and human trafficking in light of the conflict occuring in Balochistan. Oakridge MUN 2023 lived up to its reputation as a platform for young minds to address global concerns, practice diplomacy, and hone their leadership skills.

As we look back at this past event, we can't help but appreciate the effort put forth by the organizers, sponsors, and, most importantly, the enthusiastic delegates. Oakridge MUN 2023 was indeed a memorable journey, filled with diplomacy and intellect. It was a chapter in the book of growth and learning for all who participated.

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FROM CHALK TO CHUCKLES: THE SPECTACULAR TEACHER'S DAY EXTRAVAGANZA

By Avyackta Madas

Leading up to Teacher's Day, the school hummed with infectious energy as students frantically prepared to show their appreciation towards their favourite teachers.

There was electric excitement in the air as students embarked on a mission to make this Teacher's Day celebration unique. Students took on numerous roles as organisers, performers, and artists in the days prior to the event. They marched around the hallways of our school to

recruit volunteers for the celebrations. The objective was clear: assemble as many pupils as possible who were keen to participate and delight their teachers. The idea was brilliant.

Students would create a carnival-like atmosphere, packed with “vendors” offering delicious food and activities. They had everything covered, from ping pong to baked goodies to complicated puzzles. The range of offers showcased the students' originality and dedication.

My friends and I burned the midnight oil crafting paper flowers, each one as unique and vibrant as the teachers we were creating them for. Each paper petal was painstakingly crafted and coloured as a sign of our appreciation and affection. We couldn't wait to see the teachers' exhilaration once they got there, a culmination of our appreciation.

Teacher's Day itself arrived with a promise of festivity, as the sun bathed our school in a warm, golden glow. After enduring what felt like an eternity of lessons, everyone finally reached the coveted lunch break. The cafeteria buzzed with anticipation, and the teachers had no idea about the surprise the students had in store for them. The whole teaching staff was invited to the Multi-Purpose Hall after lunch, completely oblivious that they were about to be thrown into the limelight. As the teachers entered the hall, they were met with raucous screams and praise by DP-1 students as excited paparazzi. With flowers in hand, the students made them feel like the celebrities they were. The entry was graceful– a carpet of vibrant rose petals leading the way to the main stage.

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Students had neatly set their stalls on each side of the auditorium. The energy in the room was palpable, and it was evident that this would be a unique Teacher's Day celebration.

Students from MYP Year 5 and CBSE Grade 10 volunteered to take the stage and dance their hearts out, starting the festivities with a roar. The pupils' dancing skills were nothing short of remarkable, as they swayed to Bollywood and Tollywood favourites like "Super Machi" and "What Jhumka?". It was challenging to resist the performance's appealing intensity. As the final dance steps echoed through the hall, teachers were free to browse the stalls that encircled the auditorium. The students had gone above and beyond in their arrangements, for the booths were nothing short of spectacular. Between the lingering odours of lay chips, the sounds of bouncing ping pong balls, and the challenge of quizzes, the stalls were an amusement for one's senses. As they progressed from one stall to the next, teachers were spoiled for choice.

The teachers left the Multi-Purpose Hall, faces aglow with happiness and hearts filled with warmth as the day drew to a finish. The students had effectively pulled off a surprise party that not only entertained but conveyed their heartfelt gratitude for the teachers' devotion and hard work. Ultimately, the celebration was a sincere tribute to the bond between teachers and students, rather than just a grand spectacle. It was a day filled with laughter and cheers, reminding us of the significance of acknowledging the teachers who shape our lives. That day will live on in our memories, reminding us of the lasting impact that teachers have on us and the importance of expressing our appreciation in unique and unforgettable ways.

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LANGUAGE DAY 2023: CELEBRATING LINGUISTIC DIVERSITY

By Avanika Kotta “A different language is a different vision of life” - Federico Fellini.

Embracing the spirit of this quote, our school celebrated the diversity of languages and cultures on September 20th, Language Day, raising awareness on the significance of promoting and preserving native languages. Three languages were celebrated: Hindi, French, and Spanish. Students of DP1 and 2 exhibited their language skills with enriching poetry recitations, songs, dances, short films, and cultural displays. The event was a captivating culmination of the diversity of cultures these three uniquely rich "visions of life" represent.

The Oakridge campus was bustling with the vibrant interaction of students, parents and teachers as they feted a plethora of global cultures. Students applied the themes they covered in their respective language classes by exhibiting their skills through performance, writing, and clothing, highlighting their creative thinking– a key component of the IB curriculum.

Hindi: Unveiling India Where the stage was adorned with vibrant colours, students in traditional attire showcased an array of Indian traditions and cultural richness luxuriance. The harmony of Hindi poem recitations, Indian fusion dances and theatrical performances by DP1 students was a beautiful display of the importance of metaphors. Engaging with other classmates, parents and teachers, students also operated stalls containing a series of games and props to represent the curriculum's 5 themes– identities, experiences, human ingenuity, social organisation and sharing the planet.. Participation, collaboration and positive feedback from the audience stimulated students to wholeheartedly engage in class and confidently deliver public presentations.

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French: Elegance in Expression The appeal of French culture, the sophistication of French literature, and the harmonic pronunciation of French words were at the forefront of the exhibition. Enchanting narratives, French folk dance performances, and music were presented to the audience. Everyone left with a profound understanding for the language of love after witnessing the elegant and sophisticated portrayal of the language by our DP students. The students' numerous booths contained content regarding French literature, travel agencies, French cuisine, and games that helped audience members learn the language. These engaging displays encouraged our audience to participate, which in turn helped our students become more motivated and made the event enjoyable for everyone who attended. Our DP1 students' dancing performances, which featured updated French folk attire, delighted the audience and performers.

Singing performance, which featured an original and self composed song in the language of love by one of our DP2 students, later broke ground.

Spanish: Fiesta of Joy A language renowned for its vivid vibrancy– the audience was taken to a Spanish fiesta as the stage came to life with Iberian humour. Students from DP2 prepared a short film using humour which engaged the audience and set up various stalls with interactive games to demonstrate their language proficiency. In addition to setting up booths with delicacies like pasta, churros, and pupusas along with quiz shows, students also presented a short film on family conflicts and dynamics that followed the search for the family's renowned salsa recipe, which had been created by our Spanish-speaking students. Based on the themes they studied in class,, students dressed ethnically, demonstrating the inventiveness of their application skills.

In a triumphant display of linguistic flair, language day 2023, was a successful event orchestrated within a week by our very own talented DP students. The experience strengthened the notion that acquiring new languages could open opportunities to wider perspectives and a greater respect for different cultures. The event underlined how crucial multilingualism is in today's globally connected society. Everyone left with a deeper awareness of the ability of language to unite people and overcome cultural divides as a result of the event, which demonstrated our school's dedication to embrace diversity and create autonomy among its students through communication and collaboration.

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CASPIRE 2023:

IGNITING RECOVERY AND RESILIENCE THROUGH SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

By Srihitha Suryadevara

In an age marked by the global challenges such as climate change, poverty and inequality, environmental degradation, health crises, food security, water scarcity, political conflict and instability, access to education, gender inequality, inadequate healthcare- and the pressing need for recovery and resilience, The school hosted an exceptional event, CASpire 2023, which served as a beacon of inspiration and a catalyst for change. The event CASpire united speakers from various NGOs, each with a distinct mission and a shared goal– to empower Oakridge students with the knowledge and motivation to contribute to a more sustainable and resilient world.

The CASpire event, a resounding success, was designed to address the theme “Healing and Courage” by providing the students with insights into the critical role of sustainable development. One speaker, in particular, captured students’ attention with her visionary ideas and passion for a sustainable future. Mrs. Kusum Chawla, a prominent figure in the field of sustainable development, took the stage to share her expertise on the concept of the Sustainable Development Multiplier and to educate students about the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.

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Kusum Chawla: A Messenger of Hope Kusum Chawla, a name synonymous with sustainable development, graced our campus with her presence. As she stood before an eager audience of students, teachers, and fellow environmental enthusiasts, she radiated an aura of hope and determination. Kusum Chawla’s address centered on the Sustainable Development Multiplier, a concept aimed at educating the risk of Environmental Degradation to the students. She explained how every action, regardless of its scale, can create a “ripple effect”, fostering recovery and resilience in a world beset by challenges.

The Power of the Sustainable Development Goals Kusum Chawla then turned her attention to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. With eloquence and passion, she conveyed the urgency of these 17 interlinked objectives. These goals, ranging from eradicating poverty and hunger to ensuring clean water and sanitation, represent a global commitment to building a more equitable and sustainable future. In the context of our theme of recovery and resilience, Mrs. Chawla emphasized that achieving the SDGs, such as SDG 1 (No Poverty) , SDG 4 (Quality Education), and SDG 5 (Gender Equality), is not merely an option but a necessity. This urgent call to action extends beyond sustainable development; it intertwines with the fundamental principles of human rights and the collective efforts to eradicate and reduce global mass suffering. The SDGs provide a comprehensive roadmap for addressing inequality, poverty, access to education, healthcare, and gender disparities, all of which are essential elements in building a more resilient and just world. Chawla’s message underscored that true recovery and resilience can only be achieved when these critical goals are pursued with unwavering commitment.

Inspiration for Recovery and Resilience The impact of Kusum Chawla’s words was profound. The students left the CASpire event with a renewed sense of purpose, inspired to take action in their communities and embrace sustainable practices such as reducing single-use plastics, actively participating in local recycling initiatives, supporting community gardens, promoting clean energy solutions, advocating for conservation of natural habitats, and taking steps to minimize their carbon footprint through responsible transportation choices. These specific sustainable practices reflect a commitment to environmental stewardship and a tangible effort to contribute to the broader goals of sustainable development and a more resilient future. Chawla's message transcended the boundaries of the school and became a call to action for everyone who attended. She asserted that recovery and resilience are not abstract concepts but tangible goals we can work towards every day.

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R E S I L I E N C E 11

THE WAYS IN WHICH WE CHOOSE TO COPE THE PSYCHOLOGY BEHIND RESILIENCE

By Vanshika Kambhammettu Resilience is defined as successfully adapting to a difficult or challenging life experience. It’s our inner strength that allows us to face life's adversities, learn from them, and in turn become stronger.

While this may seem like an innate trait, resilience has often been referred to as a skill that can be nurtured and developed over time.

As high schoolers, I’m sure we’re all familiar with the immense stress that comes with balancing our homework, exams and extracurriculars. However, resilience can often act as a shield against these pressures of academic stress and personal struggles. If you were to develop your resilience, you would be able to cope with setbacks in a much healthier way, greatly decreasing the impact they would have had on your mental and emotional well-being. When we master this essential skill, not only do we survive but we also thrive amidst challenges, allowing us to emerge from each trial more determined than the last.

could take as long or as little time as you need to adapt. To begin with, let's dissect the various ways we choose to deal with such challenges. A vast majority of us have some form of a coping mechanism; these are psychological strategies we use to manage our stress and are deeply rooted in the way our minds react to difficult situations. They can be split into two categories: healthy and unhealthy coping mechanisms.

Unhealthy coping mechanisms are often rooted in an attempt to escape or numb difficult emotions. When we’re placed in a difficult situation, sometimes our mind simply refuses to acknowledge it. I’m sure that in the middle of a gruelling exam, most of us have

At this point, you’re probably wondering how you can master this seemingly omnipotent skill. Consider this a journey, a process that

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succumbed to rapidly shaking our leg or biting our nails. These nervous habits can provide a momentary distraction from stress and are grounded in avoidance. When we engage in these habits, we temporarily relieve tension by providing a physical outlet for our anxiety. However, this is a short-term fix that doesn't address the underlying stressors or contribute to our long-term well-being.

On the other hand, healthy coping mechanisms ground you. At some point whether you were scared, angry or anxious someone has probably told you to take a deep breath. This is more effective than you’d think. Our stress often stems from the fact that we’re constantly worrying about our future. When you take a deep breath, you ground yourself in the present moment.

You calm your fight-or-flight response and relax your muscles. This is centred on shifting our focus away from stressors and grounding ourselves in the here and now, allowing for emotional regulation. Another incredibly effective way is to form a support system. The act of seeking support from friends, family, or mentors taps into the human need for social connection. When we share our challenges and feelings, we experience emotional validation and, often, practical advice. This fosters a sense of belonging, reducing feelings of isolation.

Healthy mechanisms promote emotional regulation and growth, while unhealthy ones only offer momentary relief while failing to address much larger issues.

This is not something that can be done in just a single day but by fostering healthy coping strategies, we can build our resilience and navigate life's challenges with strength and adaptability, rather than relying on temporary distractions that may ultimately perpetuate stress and anxiety.

Understanding our mind and body’s responses to stress is not only an important part of the process to improve our resilience but can also be essential for our lives in the long run.

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ACADEMIC VALIDATION: STRIVING OR SUFFERING?

By Vishruth Reddy

In PYP, I was the student who always achieved perfect teacher remarks on my report cards alongside the perfect stream of excellent grades. Now in high school, I'm satisfied with nothing below perfect and strive to match the standards I’ve set for myself. My life has revolved around getting into the university of my choosing whilst juggling every extracurricular you can imagine. I find myself captivated by the intoxicating allure of victory; when I excel at a particular activity, my insatiable drive pushes me to persist, yet when I stumble and face disappointment in the same, the depth of my self-critique knows no bounds.

Is the addiction worth the self-humility?

That's the question we’ll address in this article: "Academic Validation - Striving or Suffering?"

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What is academic validation and its significance?

Academic validation, at its core, is about recognizing the worth and significance of our educational efforts. But it's more than just a straightforward acknowledgment; it's a concept that invites us to ponder the deepseated role education plays in our lives. So, here’s a question: Is academic validation a necessary part of the learning process, or can genuine knowledge and personal growth occur without it? In other words, does a gold star, a diploma, or a pat on the back truly define our understanding and mastery of a subject, or is there an intrinsic motivation that transcends these external markers?

Academic validation can serve as a motivating factor for individuals in recovery, giving them a goal to strive for and a sense of purpose in their journey. This invites us to explore the interplay between our inner drive to learn and the external recognition that often fuels our educational pursuits.

The Interplay: Picture the interplay as a seesaw, where on one side, we have our innate curiosity and passion for learning, and on the other, the tangible rewards and recognitions we receive in an educational journey. The question becomes, which side carries more weight in shaping our educational experiences and the pursuit of knowledge? the pursuit of academic validation can

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inadvertently cultivate resilience by teaching individuals how to overcome challenges and setbacks. In this delicate balance, education becomes a canvas where passion and recognition intertwine to paint a portrait of self-discovery, personal growth, and the pursuit of knowledge. The seesaw sways, but it's within this equilibrium that we uncover the essence of a well-rounded education.

Role of anxiety:

The National Institute of Health reports that a staggering 88% of college students reported experiencing overwhelming anxiety about their academic performance. When it comes to academic validation, the pressure to excel often becomes a significant trigger for anxiety. The fear of falling short of self-imposed standards can lead to what experts call "performance anxiety," causing stress and sleepless nights.

On the other side of the coin, the fear of negative academic validation, like poor grades, can result in "assessment anxiety." It's this perpetual chase for validation that can breed what I like to call "validation anxiety," where students become dependent on external affirmations to ease their anxieties.

Anxiety, in its various forms, can create a daunting hurdle in the pursuit of academic validation. It's like an invisible weight that we carry, affecting our everyday lives. Have you ever felt the jitters before a big test or when awaiting important feedback? That's anxiety at play. It can influence our decision-making, selfconfidence, and even our enthusiasm for learning. The challenge lies in finding a balance between healthy motivation and the paralysing effects of anxiety.

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Effect on social life: The relentless pursuit of academic validation, with its demanding workload and high standards, often takes a toll on students' social lives and mental well-being.

Imagine having to decline social gatherings, miss out on fun activities, or cancel plans due to an impending exam or a mountain of pursuits can lead to and could contribute to feelings of loneliness and isolation, ultimately impacting mental health.

Furthermore, the pressure to excel academically can trigger stress, anxiety, and even burnout. It's essential to find a balance that allows for both academic success and an active social life, in order to maintain a healthy state of mind.

Striving or suffering?: Examples from real life abound: there are students who feel that they must study excessively in order to meet their standards, and there are others who, even with great grades, are constantly feeling inadequate.

However, it is imperative to recognize that while striving for academic excellence is admirable, it should not come at the cost of one's mental well-being. Striking a balance that includes self-compassion, seeking support when necessary, and redefining success beyond external validation can provide a more sustainable and fulfilling academic journey. Ultimately, the pursuit of academic validation is a complex path, with each student's experience being uniquely their own.

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WAR OF HISTORICAL GRIEVANCES

THE CONFLICT BETWEEN PALESTINE AND ISRAEL

By Hamsini Reddy Two nations marked by decades of historical, political, and cultural complexities that continue to shape each region as their own; this is the story of Palestine and Israel. The war isn’t something new, but has recently been put under the international spotlight.

Historic Relations: One look at the Holocaust in our history textbooks shows the torture and misery that the Jewish community was facing. In the 20th century, many European Jews were migrating to Palestine, their traditional homeland, in large numbers to escape religious persecution and by the 1930s there were over 100,000 Jewish refugees in Palestine who came from Nazi Germany and Poland.

But the conflict precedes the Holocaust, and can actually be traced back to 1917, when the British Mandate was established for Palestine: the Balfour Declaration of 1917 discusses support for the establishment of a “national home for Jewish people”.

In November of 1947 the UN General Assembly passed a resolution to divide the Arab and Jewish states. The Jewish states were given 55% of the territory which included the Negev Desert, which was to be expected to be home to 500,000 Jews and 400,000 Arabs. On the other hand, Arab states were given the remaining 45% of the territory including the West Bank and Gaza with a minority population of 10,000 Jews. But Palestine rejected this resolution,leading to Israel declaring independence on May 14,1948.

Following Israel's declaration of independence, the Arab-Israeli war took place, also known as the Nakba (catastrophe). This war consisted of attempts at invasion from neighboring Arab states such as Egypt, Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, and Jordan; yet, all these attempts fell flat due to the assistance Israel received from the United States of America. This resulted in the displacement of hundreds of thousands of Palestinian Arabs and only raised the tensions between Israel and other Arab countries.

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There was also a 6-day war that took place in 1967 which resulted in Israel occupying the West Bank, Gaza Strip, East Jerusalem, and the Golan Heights.

Israeli military still occupies these Palestine territories today due to security concerns such as suicide bombings and rocket attacks. These security concerns have caused the Israeli military to construct security barriers, which have helped in protecting Israel but have also caused harm to Palestinian citizens.

Since occupying these areas, Israel has held major control over Palestine. Take their water supply. About 90-95% of the water supply in Gaza is unfit for human consumption. And while Israelis consume 300 liters of water, which is 3 times the minimum amount recommended by the World Health Organization, Palestinians consume an average of 73 liters of water per day with an all-time low being 20.

The mixture of the past along with the situation at present is what has formed the basis for the ongoing Palestine-Israel war.

Recovery?: The challenges, complexities, and historical grievances faced by both parties have further stoked the tensions.

As of now, there seem to be no easy solutions in sight, but to achieve peace for both parties, a comprehensive and empathetic approach needs to be taken that recognizes the rights and aspirations of both Palestine and Israel.

The United Nations Human Rights Council has called for an immediate ceasefire on October 27 due to the unfolding catastrophe in the occupied Gaza Strip. The resolution to this long-standing conflict remains crucial for their own community as well as the international community. Both countries are extremely resilient in their own ways, and together, putting their differences aside, there is promise for a brighter and more stable future in both regions, where peace and cooperation will prevail.

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GLORIFIED RESILIENCE: WHERE HAS THE HYPE TAKEN US? Seeking ways to sail through stress and grief?

You've probably heard these phrases before: 'Stay optimistic! Keep a positive mindset! Persevere with unwavering resilience.' These are a few of the many familiar mantras we encounter in times of hardship. But amidst these well-worn words, it's worth taking a moment to explore the heart of the matter: What is resilience?

By Deeksha Singh

Resilience, at its core, is the belief in our ability to not just bounce back from tough times but to thrive in the face of adversity. Originally a concept used in fields like construction, disaster recovery, and psychology; resilience has now found a place in our day-to-day lives, and it's no surprise why In a world that admires determination and the strength to overcome challenges, resilience has found its way under the spotlight. As time has passed by, we’ve stepped into an era where resilience is not merely observed but also glorified, and while the glorification of resilience continues to rise, it is essential to step back and question where the “hype” has lead us. While resilience is considered vital to overcoming hardships, its standalone efficacy in the journey of recovery is debatable. Despite resilience instilling a sense of self-empowerment, independence, and selfreliance; resilience has its drawbacks. Over the last few years, the emphasis on building resilience is often backed up by misguided motivations. These misguided motivations are often camouflaged in the generalisations we’ve been taught since childhood.

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In different aspects of life, the intention to impart resilience often veers off course, whether it pertains to societal gender norms, academic demands, or the dynamics within the workplace.

Society often teaches women to cultivate resilience and strength, but regrettably, this guidance serves the wrong purposes. It places importance on conforming to patriarchal norms instead of nurturing self-respect. In this context, the notion of resilience becomes synonymous with unjustified stoicism rather than promoting advocacy for change. Academic resilience perpetuates a culture of ignoring mental health needs while pressurising the students to persevere at any cost. It seems to trap students in an endless cycle of merely "facing" adversity, rather than fostering a sense of transformation and discipline. On the contrary, for academic success, other factors such as attendance and study habits are much better predictors of success than grit or resilience. Promoting resilience among employees can result in encouraging an overly tolerant attitude towards unpleasant and counter-productive situations.

What emerges as a consistent pattern in these situations is the misconception that resilience equates to the ability to endure stress, perhaps even abuse. These issues further substantiate how resilience has become a misunderstood, overrated, and exploitative phenomenon.

The repercussions of glorifying resilience have resulted in idealizing the notion of enduring hardships. It presents an idealistic image of a world where enduring difficulties consistently without emotional turmoil is the norm.

However, this distorted belief in always projecting a facade of well-being ultimately leads to one thing: burnout, a deep pit that's tough to escape unscathed. In our society, we often experience excessive pressure, where seeking help, facing challenges, or just being human is seen as a mistake. Consequently, society has falsely linked this glorification with the concept of goodness. Resilience’s conceptualization as a ‘return to a normal state of functioning following a stressful situation or event’ has resulted in creating a paradox.

Resilience, though valuable for coping, falls short as the ultimate solution for recovery.

Relying solely on resilience perpetuates an acceptance of adversity that hinders transformation and proactive change disrupting the process of confronting the root causes.

Resilience, instead, should be part of a larger toolkit for recovery; this approach should encompass adaptability, empowerment, and transformative change as essential aspects of . the journey toward personal growth and comprehensive recovery. Resilience is not about giving in to adversity; it is about fighting back and ultimately emerging stronger, wiser, and more determined than ever before. It is a testament to the human spirit's capacity to overcome challenges, inspiring us to continue pushing forward, embracing change, and fostering a brighter future.

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DEALING WITH ACADEMIC SETBACKS: THE 411.

By Anvi Waghmare

We all know being a student brings challenges and setbacks, and how overcoming these difficult situations leaves us with a sense of pride and feelings of validation and accomplishment.

For some of us, overcoming these challenges and setbacks is easy, until it isn’t. We feel the loss of validation and accomplishment deeply, often internalizing it. In this article, we’ll explore mental health, daily habits, and study techniques. So, let’s begin!

01 THE MIND Academic setbacks are subjective and can range from poor grades to failing school. While their impact varies from person to person, they affect students' mental health, stemming from low grades, test failure, rejection, impostor syndrome, and pressure.

If you do not focus on building mental strength and self-esteem that isn’t dependent on external validation then you will be at higher risks of mental illness and weakness in the face of addictive vices.

Here’s how to recover psychologically when faced with an academic setback; Acknowledge your emotions: Be honest with yourself, write down what you feel, and allow yourself to acknowledge the emotions that arise.

Treat yourself with kindness: Avoid harsh self-criticism; being kind to yourself is vital for your mental health when faced with a challenging situation.

Access the situation: Reflect on what went right and what didn’t; acknowledging both setbacks and achievements, always learn from your mistakes.

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02 THE HABITS Many habits can increase your probability of being faced with an academic setback, but after extended research (and a little personal experience) I’ve concluded that these two are the most notorious and common inhibitors in terms of academic success.

Procrastination Ineffective Time Management Yes, the two are interlinked, as all habits are, but these two, especially when together can almost guarantee you academic setbacks. Here’s how; Procrastination and a Lack of Time Management cause Missed Deadlines and Incomplete Work.

When you procrastinate you’re hampering task completion, resulting in poor grades and creating a harmful cycle of underperformance. Procrastination and a Lack of Time Management lead to Ineffective Study Habits and Reduced Learning Opportunities. When you fail at prioritizing tasks, you end up underperforming due to time constraints. Your erratic study schedule impairs your ability to retain information well, and seeking help becomes daunting when you’re stuck in a rut.

03 THE GRADES

So you’ve made it this far, good job! So far we’ve tackled how to avoid mental illness and what to avoid to ensure academic success. Now, let's focus on achieving those good grades.

Time Blocking: When it comes to effectively studying, you can’t do it without managing your time.

The best way to manage everything that you have to get done is to Time Block. For more details, you can refer to The Complete Guide to Time Blocking by Todoist.

Active Learning: When you fully engage your brain it is when you are truly learning, the best way to actively learn is to teach (or pretend to) someone else. A more detailed guide is Active Learning by the Cornell Centre for Teaching Innovation Effective Note-Taking: Both inside and outside class, being able to see everything you need to learn at a glance is always helpful when you’re trying to study large amounts of information. Notetaking techniques such as the Cornell Method and Mind Mapping are good places to start. Some really good detailed guides can be found on the Goodnotes Blog for both.

Pomodoro Technique: A way to ensure that you don’t burn yourself out, taking regular breaks is essential and the Pomodoro Technique is perfect for that. Essentially you work for 25 minutes and take a break for 5, if you’re interested in a more detailed explanation The Pomodoro Technique by Todoist is a good place to start.

In conclusion, addressing the emotional impact of academic setbacks is vital. If needed ask for professional or parental support. To not hinder your success, avoid procrastination and poor time management. To optimize study time, employ the four effective techniques outlined above. Remember you are not alone on your academic journey there are always resources to help you succeed.

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IN MEMORY.

By Namrata Nanduru

The entire Oakridge community faced a tragedy that was truly so unexpected and terrible last month. It affected everybody in some way, from students to teachers to staff, because even if you didn’t know Reyansh Maramreddy personally, you would have always known his presence. He was the happiest and brightest soul, always making jokes, laughing and having fun with everybody around him. If you had walked past him in the hallway, chances are extremely high you would have seen and remembered him as the funny and vibrant student that he was. He was highly intelligent, always acing every single exam. His friends have described him as the person you look to when you want to make a difficult day better, a true source of joy, whether he intended to be or not. He was a football fanatic, a top student, and a wonderful friend. This loss is something that nobody could have foreseen.

It was a mark of Oakridge’s strength and sense of community that in the weeks following the incident, there was so much done to honour and respect Reyansh. Oakridge designated a day off from school, allowing everybody to mourn and take care of themselves to the extent that they needed, a way of expressing their solidarity. A week or so later, our head teacher conducted a beautiful and meaningful school-wide memorial gathering, allowing everybody to come together, pay their respects and honour Reyansh. For the 9th and 10th graders, who were the students who knew Reyansh best, there was an assembly that his close friends, including me, were able to organise. We spoke at the gathering, and showed videos and pictures of him to remember the person that he was. The most important thing for us was remembering him the way he would have wanted, looking back at the times when he was full of life and laughter, surrounded by the people who cared about him.

In times like these, resilience is something we all must have, a quality we have to draw upon.

We must be resilient enough to not only deal with this loss, but acknowledge and respect the person that Reyansh was. We must be resilient enough to carry on with our lives, but always remember him and keep him with us. Most importantly, we must be resilient enough to be there for each other, the rest of the students and even the teachers, because there is one thing that Oakridge is above all: a community, a family.

In my opinion, that is the true road to recovery: being resilient in the face of such unexpected and unprecedented tragedy, as this definitely was. Reyansh may not be here to cheer us all up with his jokes and his laughter, but we can draw upon the qualities that he had to make our days a bit better. We owe it to him and his memory to stay strong, and live our lives the best that we can. By doing this, we can recover collectively as a school, and we will look back on the memories we made with him and be grateful that we knew him for as long as we did.

Rest in peace, Reyansh.

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Anish Raja, Aditi Earla, Venisha Arrabolu, Ananya Buddhavarapu, Mihika Reddy, Esha Rout, Anika Reddy, Keerthan Gorjala

Photographers: Roshan Churukanti, Mahathi Reddy Altai, Adithi Mandava, Aditya Gupta, Deetya Thota, Ditya Vakat, Laranya Akkula, Vaidhatri Reddy, Tanvisha Yerraguntala

Artists: Anahita Patny, Dharani Kancharla, Diva Agarwal, Ishita Shrivastava, Maanya Reddy, Viha Agarwal, Omer Mohammed, Raaga Suravarpu