Issue 6 - April 2024

THE PROSPECTOR

THE INFANTILIZATION OF FORMER CHILD STARS Exploring the infantilization of child stars like Olivia Rodrigo and K-pop idols

NEWS

INVESTIGATIONS Cupertino Over the Years p. 12

SPORTS

Tino’s New Diving Team Featuring Alisha Luc and Sydney Tran pg. 16

FEATURES

Tino Published Creative Writers pg. 20

ISSUE 6, VOL 66 | APRIL 2024

TikTok Ban? pg. 4

IN THIS ISSUE

news

TikTok Ban? .................................. 04

Silicon Valley Hopper ..................... 05 Vallco Construction ....................... 06

opinions

The Infantilization of Former Child Stars ............................................. 08 The Harmfulness of Voluntourism ...10

investigations

Cupertino Over the Years .............. 12

sports

Tino’s New Diving Team ................ 16 featuring Alisha Luc and Sydney Tran

Athlete of the Month: Rui Pai ........ 18

25: MBTI Tino Spots

COVER DESIGNED BY BENJAMIN LIU, HAILEY RYU, JOYCE LEE

features

Tino Published Creative Writers ... 20

postscript

Tino Connections ....................... 24 MBTI Tino Spots ......................... 25 The Unspoken Reality of the Younger Sibling ........................... 26

THE PROSPECTOR

STAFF 2023-2024

photo editors Katie Mak Yeechen Pang

editors-in-chief Joyce Lee Benjamin Liu Hailey Ryu

online editors Nitya Dhulipala Alexander Liu Zain Haseeb Ira Lele Yeechen Pang Katie Mak Scarlett Guy Amrita Brar

news editor Brian Kuo opinions editor Noah Kang features editor Miya Widman investigations editor Nikhil Krishnaswamy sports editor Victoria Hunt postscript editor Katie Kim copy editors Amrita Brar Nitya Dhulipala Zain Haseeb Ira Lele

business manager Shaona Das writers Lisa Zivanic, Jolie Han, Sania Mehta, Angie Li, Anoushka Gokhale, Anika Rao, Andrew Qin, Evan Lu, Rishita Shah, Riya Malik

advisor Ann Shriver-Peck Editorial Policy “The Prospector” is an open forum of expression for student editors to inform and educate their readers. It will not be reviewed by or restrained by school officials prior to publication or distribution. Advisors may and should coach and discuss content during the writing process.

The staff of “The Prospector” seeks to recognize individuals, events and ideas and bring news to the Cupertino community in an accurate, professional and unbiased manner. “The Prospector” will not avoid publishing a story solely on the basis of possible dissent or controversy.

If you believe an error has been made or wish to have your opinion expressed in “The Prospector,” please contact us via mail or email. Letters sent become the sole property of “The Prospector” and can be edited for length, clarity or accuracy.

“The Prospector” editorial board reserves the right to accept or reject any ad in accordance with its advertising policy.

Contact Us: chsprospector@gmail.com The Prospector 10100 Finch Avenue Cupertino, CA 95014

A LETTER FROM THE EDITORS-IN-CHIEF Dear Reader, As the end of the school year dawns upon us, our sixth issue has been a time of reflection at The Prospector — and of new beginnings. This second edition of our junior issues was brought to you by our staffers, who have tried out new positions in our magazine and will be the future of The Prospector.

Benjamin Liu and Scarlett Guy launch us into this theme of change in an examination of the future of TikTok, and the implications the potential ban may have on its millions of American users on page 3. On page 8, Amrita Brar and Victoria Hunt explore the change in former child stars’ branding as they shed their previous youthful image in favor of a more mature concept from adolescence to adulthood.

Conversely, Angie Li, Riya Malik and Hailey Ryu take us back to the early years in Tino history through a series of investigative interviews with teacher alumni on page 12. On page 26, Katie Kim reflects on her personal transformation after her older sister moved to Southern California for college.

We’re incredibly proud of everyone in our Tino community, from our steadfast Prospector staff to our beloved teachers and friends. We hope this issue encourages you to reflect on how far you have come this school year and will go in the future.

Yours truly, Benjamin Liu, Hailey Ryu, Joyce Lee

TIKTOK BAN? NEWS

Congress Bill pressures Tiktok parent company ByteDance to either sell or ban TikTok in U.S. BENJAMIN LIU | SCARLETT GUY

T

editor-in-chief | podcast editor

ick tock, tick tock…the clock for popular social media app TikTok ticks down after the House of Representatives passed a bill on March 13, 2024 cautioning its Chinese parent company ByteDance to sell the app within six months or be banned from all American domestic devices.

TikTok, a Chinese-owned company, is required to share all user data with the CCP on request based on Chinese cybersecurity laws. Despite there being no records of such requests, lawmakers from Congress expressed concerns about the possibility of TikTok leaking American user information to the Chinese government and fostering an environment for the Chinese Communist Party to spread propaganda by

N

BA 4 | DESIGNED BY BRIAN KUO

controlling information presented in the app. According to an article published by thew Pew Research Center, 32% of people aged 18–29

fighting ByteDance to sell the app to an American company before the bill is passed through all parties of the government.

On the other hand, an anonymous CHS student and TikTok HEY, UNITED STATES user stated, “I feel like risking GOVERNMENT, CAN I ASK your information being leaked is an inevitable [thing] that comes WHAT OUR PRIORITIES from using social media. And I ARE RIGHT NOW? don’t necessarily think risking my data being leaked to China CONTENT CREATOR NOTSOPHIESILVA through TikTok is significantly worse than risking my data being leaked to the US government say they regularly get their news through other apps.” from TikTok. This is significant as The Protecting Americans viewers in this age group could be from Foreign Adversary Conexposed to content that is not in trolled Applications Act overthe interest of the American gov- whelmingly passed by the House ernment. aims to reach a compromise beThe US government, in hopes tween protecting users’ online of keeping Tiktok users safe and privacy and national security protecting national security, is

“

”

House Bill

L

KEEP

SEL

ByteDance

SILICON VALLEY HOPPER KATIE MAK

S

photo editor

As Hopper is still in its early stages, it has a limited number of employed drivers, making it difficult to sustain too large of a user base. Hopper continues to further expand the program, allowing for more accessibility. There are times when ride availability is limited, especially around 3 p.m. when there are many school dismissals, where many people are booking rides.

To use the ride service, users must install the Silicon Valley Hopper App to begin. After users enter the addresses of the pick up and drop off location, they then

ilicon Valley Hopper is an eco-friendly transportation service operated by Via, with funding from the city of Santa Clara. The cities of Cupertino and Santa Clara received around $8.5 million in 2022 to expand transportation services, and launched the Hopper app in Nov. 2023.

Hopper offers public ride service to the Cupertino and Santa Clara area, with some popular destinations PEOPLE COUNT ON ORincluding DeAnza College, DERING RIDES EVERY SINGLE Main Street and Westfield Valley Fair.

DAY TO GET SOMEWHERE, The program is priced AND THIS IS PROBABLY THE at $3.50 per ride, with an MOST EFFICIENT METHOD TO additional $1 to add anothDO SO. er passenger, while also offering discounted rides DEVANSH PATEL of $1.75 for senior citizens, students and more.

As a convenient and affordable click “Book This Ride.” Users navway to commute, Hopper benefits igate using the app to find where many, from students to families to meet the driver and vehicle, to teachers. Junior and frequent and there is also a call button if Hopper user Devansh Patel often needed. Once in the vehicle, usresorts to Hopper when it is time ers can also check the route and to head home after school. He directions through the app. began using the program when “It’s so good that the city of he discovered it through a school Cupertino can support this proemail, and has enjoyed it ever gram because people count on since. The cost effectiveness and ordering rides every single day to convenience of Hopper are two get somewhere, and this is probamain factors that keep him con- bly the most efficient method to do tinuing with the program. so,” Patel said “The cost is super cheap, for one ride it’s $1.75. I’m really happy with my overall experience with [Hopper]. Obviously, there have been a few negative experiences but there have been way more positive than negative,” said Patel.

“

”

NEWS | 5

while giving American users the possibility to continue enjoying the benefits of TikTok if ByteDance divest their United States assets.

Many of the 170 million American users on TikTok disapproved of the bill. Those against the bill argued that it limits the First Amendment rights of the app’s users because banning the app removes a platform they use to express themselves.

However, others disagree.

For instance, said the anonymous student, “Given how many social media platforms there are that are very similar to TikTok, I don’t personally feel like my First Amendment rights have been violated.

However, I feel like many TikTok creators, particularly news-based ones, that rely on this social media will feel like their speech is being suppressed.”

Current TikTok users can simply switch to alternatives such as Instagram reels or YouTube shorts for entertainment— however, the same cannot be said about content creators. The ban will completely upend the careers of full-time influencers and small business owners, forcing them to struggle to find an alternative platform for content creation or consider an entirely new method of earning. In addition, many companies would lose a crucial marketing tool if TikTok were to be banned.

Numerous influencers feel frustrated about the ban as they see it as inappropriate in comparison to other current issues. Said content creator Notsophiesilva, “Hey, United States government, can I ask what our priorities are right now?”

As of now, the fate of TikTok is unclear. The proposed House bill needs to be passed through the Senate — where it will face legal challenges — to go into effect

VALLCO CONSTRUCTION Construction of “The Rise” at previous Vallco Mall location is approved ANDREW QIN

O

6 | THE PROSPECTOR

writer

nce a bustling hub of commerce and activity, Vallco Mall was the heart of Cupertino’s thriving retail industry during the 80s and 90s. Anchored by department stores like Macy’s, Sears and JC Penny, the shopping location was a popular destination for residents and tourists alike — a place to indulge in various experiences from comic book stores and bowling alleys to fine dining and luxury goods. However, by the turn of the century, the rise of online e-commerce businesses led to a steady decline in visitor traffic. One by one, stores began to lower their shutters, and by the 2010s, Vallco Mall was only a shadow of its former self.

In 2014, the real estate management company, Sand Hill Property, acquired the dying retail center for $320 million. In 2015, the company submitted plans to redevelop the site into a community complex featuring residential units, 640,000 square feet of commercial area and over 2 million square feet of usable office space.

The project, called The Hills, was ambitious, additionally seeking to incorporate a 30-acre integrated green roof with open public spaces, including trails, an amphitheater, a fitness center, a clubhouse and two town squares. Construc-

tion of The Hills was set to be accompanied by over $50 million in benefits to Cupertino schools, including a state-of-the-art Innovation Center for Fremont Union High School District students.

The plans were met almost immediately with resistance.

Concerns over traffic, construction and a radical influx of “unchecked” growth spurred division amongst residents and city officials. In 2016, the matter was brought to the ballot box. Measure C, launched by an organization known as the Better Cupertino Political Action Committee, aimed to halt all plans for The Hills, seeking instead to devote 1.2 million square feet of Vallco space for retail development only. The opposing proposal by Sand Hill Property, Measure D, sought authorization for The Hills project. Ultimately,

both measures failed, indicating a clear rift in voter opinions.

In 2018, Sand Hill Property altered the project, meeting Senate Bill 35 guidelines and state density bonus laws to avoid voter referendums. California’s Senate Bill 35 is a statute that allows development projects that serve affordable housing needs to undergo a streamlined approval process.

Under these new guidelines, Sand Hill Property drastically increased its proposed residential units, with a significant portion targeted at households earning below 80% of the median income.

Said Samantha LoCurto, Communications and Marketing Coordinator for Cupertino, in an email, “The project site, without a state density bonus, would be able to accommodate 1,779 units based on the residential density

Vallco Mall 1976-2019 Anchored by: Macy’s, Sears, J.C. Penny Demolition Began Oct 2018

allowed on the site. However, pur- sued in 2018 by the Cupertino political action committee, Friends of suant to state density bonus law, Better Cupertino. FBC claimed the applicant was able to inSand Hill Property’s proposclude an additional 890 als were not in accordance market rate units to with SB 35 guidelines the project for a total and could not thus of 2,669 units of which lay claim to the ex890 units would be afpedited review fordable.” process that Sand Hill’s efforts would cirto increase housing opcumvent tions come amidst an voter affordrefa b l e housing HOUSING AT LOWER INcrisis in COME LEVELS SUPPORTS the Bay HOUSEHOLDS THAT PROVIDE erArea.

ESSENTIAL SERVICES [...] ALL e n OF WHICH ARE NECESSARY dums.

S a i d TO SUPPORT THE COMMUNIThe litLoCurTY. i g a t i o n to, “The SAMANTHA LOCURTO dragged on C i t y for two continyears ues to support housing development at before a judge ultiall levels of affordability. Housing mately ruled in Sand at lower income levels supports Hill Property’s favor.

In 2022, the households that provide essential services to the community, includ- city officially greenlit ing those who serve as emergen- Sand Hill’s SB35 projcy service providers, teachers, ect. Most recently, on and workers in the retail industry F e b r u — all of which are necessary to ary 16, 2024, support the community.”

Following these develop- the city ments, Sand Hill Property was a p -

“

The Hills at Vallco Proposed 2015 Plan:

”

ED

AP

V O R P

proved a second plan modification.

The past events bring us to the present, where the desolate Vallco Mall no longer symbolizes Cupertino’s history but its potential for a drastically different future.

Said LoCurto, “The project applicant has communicated their eagerness to begin construction. To that end, they are pursuing discussions with the City to begin to obtain permits for the utility and grading required to allow the above grade structures to be constructed.”

Although a construction timeline is not available at this time, new developments will be inevitable over the next few years

The Rise

Residential Units: 2,600 Commercial Area: 1.97 million sq. ft

Usable Office Space: 2 million

Entertainment: 429,000 sq. ft

sq. ft

Open Space: 40 acres

NEWS | 7

Commercial Area: 640,000 sq. ft

OPINIONS

The Infantilization of Former Child Stars Exploring the infantilization of child stars like Olivia Rodrigo and K-pop idols AMRITA BRAR, VICTORIA HUNT

F

copy editor | sports editor

8 | DESIGNED BY NOAH KANG

rom gracing our TV screens as children to selling out stadiums and performing in front of thousands, the rise and progression of child stars is nothing new to pop culture. However, the common infantilization of many stars — even as they grow older and begin to explore more adult themes in their work — has raised concerns over time. Infantilization is the act of treating one like a child and holding them to the expectations of a child, despite their inevitable maturing.

Child stars such as Olivia Rodrigo, Millie Bobby Brown and various K-pop idols are just a few examples of individuals who

have been in the spotlight from a very young age but later on shifted their child-like image to a more mature one and were met with backlash.

Although not every star follows this pipeline, problems often arise when these former child celebrities begin putting out projects more well-adjusted to their current age, despite their audience remaining the same young fanbase that they have outgrown. Oftentimes, the provocative work these artists release as adults upsets the parents of their young viewers, who widely deem it inappropriate and unsuitable for that demographic.

A prime example of this issue that has sparked debate online in recent weeks is Olivia Rodri-

go, who is currently touring for her newly released “GUTS” album. First starring in “American Girl: Grace Stirs Up Success,” then moving onto Disney Channel, appearing in “Bizaardvark” as well as “High School Musical: The Musical: The Series,” Rodrigo has since left the acting world to pursue her passion for music. Similar to many other Disney works, the content of her past TV shows was relatively innocent and their primary demographics were elementary to middle school-aged children.

Although Rodrigo put out an album titled “SOUR” in 2021, the album contained little profanity and the tour remained uncontroversial. In recent months, the release of her 2023 album

OLIVIA IS A 21 “ -YEAR-OLD WOMAN, SHE DOESN’T OWE ANYONE A SANITIZED CONCERT. REDDIT USER

”

live. It’s not Olivia’s fault you’re not vetting whether her content is appropriate for a 9-year-old.”

Additionally, another child star who has been in the spotlight since 12 years old, kicking off her career with Netflix original “Stranger Things,” is actress Millie Bobby Brown. Due to the relative innocence of her roles in the past and the image the public had of her, 19-year-old Brown received significant slander when she announced her engagement to, a then 20-year-old, Jake Bongiovi in April of 2023, as many believed that she was too young to be engaged. The two began dating in 2021, less than two years b e -

fore they got en- gaged.

The negative reactions towards her engagement are a byproduct of infantilization and a belief that child stars need to “stay young” forever. An engagement at 19 years old may seem young for some, but is not uncommon considering that at 19, one is officially considered an adult.

Said one user on Newsweek, “People’s reactions are insane.

She’s old enough for a career.

She’s old enough to navigate Hollywood and all that entails but she’s not old enough to be married at 19? I’ve been married for 23 years. I was 19 and my husband had just turned 21.”

Another area in which the in-

fantilization of former child stars is far too normalized is the world of K-pop. Many instances have been seen and recorded of — often older — fans gifting their favorite idols pacifiers, bibs or even baby shakers at fan events and fanmeets.

More often than not, these idols are grown adults receiving and being asked to take pictures with toys meant for babies and small children; these common incidents indicate a disturbing and normalized patronization of these stars.

As a result of many idols debuting extremely young and beginning their careers as trainees even sooner, fans often continue to perceive them as children long after they have entered adulthood. In addition, artistic freedom is strictly monitored in the K-pop industry, with idols heavily criticized for doing anything from swearing on camera to simply being involved in romantic relationships. This limitation on their basic liberties fosters a mindset that encourages viewing them as younger and more incapable than they actually are. In addition, the average debut age for idols has been getting gradually lower and lower over the years, with some debuting as young as 13 and 14, heavily perpetuating the harmful ideas of infantilization

OPINIONS | 9

“GUTS” and — more specifically — the tour, has prompted dispute between fans. The album is significantly more explicit than her past releases, including the first track being called “all-american [redacted],” and a majority of the songs containing lyrics with cuss words and vulgar references.

Aside from the album, many users on social media have brought attention to the dance moves she performs on her tour, labeling them as scandalizing and inappropriate for her audience. One example of this is during the song “Obsessed,” where Rodrigo performs risqué moves such as thrusting her hips in the air while on the floor and grabbing her chest throughout the performance.

In addition, the lyrics of Rodrigo’s show opener for more than half of the tour stops, pop singer Chappell Roan, are far from kid-friendly, alluding to substance usage and detailed sexual acts.

Many insist that because such a large number of the fans in attendance fall in the young age range of six to 12 years old, it is inappropriate for Rodrigo to be performing these moves. Nevertheless, it is not an artist’s responsibility to police their audience or surrender their self-expression for the sake of the children in attendance, as they and their parents should be familiar with the content of the concert before purchasing tickets. Despite there being no official minimum age requirement for attendees, it was explicitly stated that children under the age of 15 were mandated to have an adult with them.

Said one Reddit user in an online forum, “[...] Olivia is a 21-yearold woman, she doesn’t owe anyone a sanitized concert. Her act has gotten a little more mature and adult, but that’s because she’s matured. She’s young, she’s beautiful and she’s a star, let her

OPINIONS

The Harmfulness of Voluntourism Exploring the detrimental effects of voluntourism ANIKA RAO, ALEXANDER LIU

V

10 | THE PROSPECTOR

writer | social media editor

oluntourism — traveling to developing countries for the purpose of providing financial medical or other forms of aid — provides much-needed help to communities in foreign countries. The voluntourism process benefits both parties, with the disadvantaged communities receiving education, medical support or buildings, and the volunteers receiving volunteer hours and pride for helping out others. However, voluntourism also has its dark side.

Among the many different organizations that offer voluntourism opportunities are tourism agencies, religious groups and specialized companies. Some of them seek profit without truly considering the future of the community that they are “helping,” leading to exploitative business practices from putting kids in orphanages to encouraging economic dependence from communities and preventing them from developing further, according to an article by NPR in 2020. Although beneficial in the short term, it is important to consider the possibilities of voluntarism’s long-term impact on the community, as well as the effectiveness of the skills of student

volunteers compared to local professional help.

According to the University of Michigan, voluntourism agencies deprive the community of jobs like construction or teaching when bringing in foreign volunteers and purposefully cultivates a dependency on outside aid. In a Newsweek article in 2015, studies found Ghanaians were less likely to opt in for medical insurance in the presence of medical voluntourists. This reliance on foreign aid not only inhibits local economies through limiting their local insurance practices, but also places the lives of people into a safety net which is, at best, unstable.

The true end goal of help-

ing a community is not to keep it yearning for more help. It is to get it up on its feet and let it be independent. Voluntourism agencies make that impossible because it erodes the local community’s ability to provide for itself. The lack of local investment into medical insurance, for example, prevents local medical insurance companies from flourishing.

According a The Guardian article in 2018, “Public works serve the community better and last longer when locals do them. Besides, long-term change happens when people can solve their own problems.”

Volunteers can still make a positive impact when they help

foreign communities, but a long- less money, from wealthy philanterm system of better local estab- thropist donors. Using the promlishments and education will serve ise of guaranteed resources and the community better than a hun- constant attention from wealthy dred waves of overseas helpers, foreigners, these orphanages no matter how well-meaning they successfully and forcibly create are. ‘orphans’ to keep their businesses Voluntourism becomes prob- alive. An NPR report in 2020 found lematic when students are required that orphanages purposefully do to use skills they do not have ad- notdon’t give medical aid to chilequate training in, like construc- dren and that critics are calling tion and childcare. In a blog post this recruitment and subsequent from 2014, a student wrote about abuse “modern slavery.” how she and her fellow voluntourVoluntourism can even conists failed to construct a library in tribute to the “saviorism complex,” Tanzania due to their lack of con- in which volunteers believe that struction skills. “[...] but there we only help from first-world counwere trying tries can to build progress straight the poor walls withPUBLIC WORKS SERVE commuout a level,” nities in THE COMMUNITY BETTER AND f o r e i g n sShe wrote.

LAST LONGER WHEN LOCALS c o u n Because of the lack DO THEM. BESIDES, LONG-TERM t r i e s . of integrity can CHANGE HAPPENS WHEN PEO- This within the be atPLE CAN SOLVE THEIR building, tributed profesto subtle OWN PROBLEMS. sional conmessagstruction es from THE GUARDIAN workers aspects secretly of volundemolished and rebuilt the struc- tourism that puts volunteers in a ture at night, while letting students position of power, like a resource believe that it was them who made provider or teacher. The orphanthe progress. No matter how much age system also contributes to this effort students put in, the same stigma, as volunteers are made to money and resources would be believe that kids in foreign counbetter spent on providing direct tries are weak and need help. monetary aid via fundraising to This saviorism complex is harmful hire local professionals, rather because it causes volunteers to than students haphazardly carry- be prejudiced when working with ing out the tasks themselves. people from countries that they Another system that exploits perceive as poor. the promises of voluntourism is However, sometimes high orphanages. The orphanages, school voluntourism is exactly which receive steady external aid what a community needs. Math from the voluntourism industry, and science tutoring, which uses entice parents to send their chil- skills that students in Bay Area dren there. Then, the orphanages high schools are very proficient in, keep their children malnourished can be executed far better than so they appear more needy to vol- construction work. According to untourists. Unfortunately, healthy the website of Bay Area college kids garner less sympathy, hence preparedness organization Ivy-

“

Max, in 2021 through 2022, when COVID-19 was at its peak, a voluntourism trip hosted by Bay Area college preparation organization IvyMax contributed valuable student tutors to disadvantaged kids in rural Nepal and provided much needed education for two years.

This type of aid is irreplaceable and demonstrates a case of voluntourism being used adequately.

If done right, voluntourism can be beneficial to a poor community, but in the long run, it can be wasteful and unethical. While the total abolishment of voluntourism will lead to the detriment of many communities, it’s crucial to limit or outlaw the long-term outcomes and unethical practices that voluntourism brings, as well as using the funding originally intended for voluntourism to help create a system for communities to be self-sustainable

”

OPINIONS | 11

INVESTIGATIONS

Cupertino Over the Years

12 | DESIGNED BY NIKHIL KRISHNASWAMY

A journey through changes in CHS from 1958 to 2024

RIYA MALIK writer

S

ince Cupertino High School’s birth in 1958, the academic culture of both the school and the surrounding community has shifted continuously to match a growing society.

In the initial years of Cupertino High, overwhelming community support and a strong administrative structure helped make

the school successful. Soon after, however, changes in staff and student mindsets drastically altered the school’s operation.

The late 20th century dealt with a growing awareness of issues regarding education accessibility and race-based discrimination. To make education more inclusive, Tino formed the Learning Center through the support of staff led

by Dorothy Emerson. Their work

helped create a space for students with disabilities to receive a strong education in life skills, work experience and other important abilities. To combat racial issues, the school used the Multicultural Committee to adjust the curriculum and host fairs; simultaneously, department changes occurred to meet the changing community and demographics.

From the 1970s to the 90s,

Academics

SCAN FOR MORE COVERAGE taught.”

As years went on, academic freedoms for both teachers and students diversified to make room for new curricula and updates that truly reflected the student body.

With time, however, the academic pressure has also grown tremendously.

“Kids are very focused. [...] I mean, there are kids here who are just doing so many tremendous things that I think that unfortunately, there’s not a lot of room kids feel for just being a kid,” said Merrick.

Another major factor in changing academic culture is the role of technology in education. Access to infinite online resources has permanently changed the way students can learn and classes are taught.

Said Merrick, “The attention span of kids today is far less, the reading endurance is much, much lower. Now, kids are incredibly squirrely, and they have a really hard time reading something that’s not on a screen or checking their phones.”

While technology may

“

have its drawbacks, it adds to the accessibility of learning in many ways.

“There are some kids, for example, who can retain information better if they listen to it. I feel like giving kids choice for how they read things is very much a new approach,” Merrick said.

Another major transition that has affected academics is the administrative leadership that switched in 2007 when Kami Tomberlain became principal.

This period also signified the rise in concern and care for the student body with the implementation of schoolwork revision or redemption, a school wellness center and weighting grade books. These academic changes became necessary to mitigate the high stakes of education and the difficulty level of classes for students.

Said Merrick, “I feel like now we’re much more mindful about that. And I think that’s a real benefit and a real good change”

AS YEARS WENT ON, ACADEMIC FREEDOMS FOR BOTH TEACHERS AND STUDENTS DIVERSIFIED TO MAKE ROOM FOR NEW CURRICULA AND UPDATES THAT TRULY REFLECTED THE STUDENT BODY.

”

RIYA MALIK

INVESTIGATIONS | 13

these trends repeated to expand and reflect the city of Cupertino. In 1988, a continuation school was established to support students who were academically struggling or needed other forms of support.

In 1999, Tino’s mission to provide accessible education continued through the program Academic Communication, which provided social-emotional support and emphasized the school’s mission of inclusivity. These academic values have continued in recent years of Tino’s history, through the current programs of AVID, Terranova, the Best Buddies club and tutoring resources.

Demographics during this period increased the number of Asian American students on campus, also reflecting a new attitude of motivated students preparing for higher education in college by taking more AP classes. Even school administrators began to emphasize overall academic success by motivating students to do well on Standardized Testing and Reporting and California High School Exit Exam tests.

Increased levels of student stress came hand in hand with the community’s attitude towards academic success.

Nikki Merrick, an Advanced Placement English Literature teacher at Tino for almost three decades, experienced the shifts in academic culture at Tino firsthand over the years.

Said Merrick, “When I first started, there were a number of teachers that had been here a really long time and were very traditional in their approach to the content of what we taught, as well as the approach to how things were

Athletics ANGIE LI writer

F

14 | THE PROSPECTOR

rom only offering boys sports at the time of its opening in 1958, Cupertino High School’s athletic culture and accomplishments have changed dramatically over the years. In its formative years, Tino’s sports teams consisted of baseball, basketball, cross country, football, golf, water polo, wrestling and track and field. Many sports were added as the school grew, and the list of offered sports continues to change, with clearance to add a girls flag football team in the coming years if the facilities and logistics allow.

In the early days, several team sports — such as basketball and soccer — were highly successful, winning multiple championships throughout the 70s. In recent years, individual sports such as tennis, badminton, track and field and swimming have taken the reins. Football coach and PE teacher Chris Oswald attributes this to the greater opportunities offered at a young age for individual sports, as well as the simplicity in training one student instead of a whole team.

The success of Tino’s sports teams is determined not only by their accomplishments, but

the athletes and the culture they bring. The environment around athletics has changed drastically over the years, recently resulting in many issues with commitment, as shared by Craig Ellegood, PE teacher and boys basketball coach who began working at Tino in 1999.

“We have a lot more issues with kids not understanding the commitment to a sport [and] team,” Ellegood said. “I also think part of that is their parents don’t understand [that] if you’re going to play on a team, you don’t get to just randomly leave. It’s not your schedule, it’s the team’s schedule.”

Also in comparison to years past, Oswald mentions the decreasing interest in sports, with fewer students wanting to try out.

Said Oswald, “We survive seasons. They’re not knocking our door down, we’re knocking on their door down and saying, ‘please come try this.’”

However, these issues do not apply to everyone, as Ellegood also notes that many students are still passionate and committed to their sports.

Another difference between today and the past is teachers’ roles in coaching. Back in the 50s and 60s, it was common for all PE

teachers to coach three different sports, year-round. Nowadays, fewer teachers are coaching, and

they are much harder to find and even harder to keep, often only staying for one year.

Outside of these struggles, Ellegood highlights the recent accomplishments of sports teams and the successes achieved beyond just winning.

“I don’t think you always measure success on winning and losing,” Ellegood said. “[It’s about students] maximizing their season and partici-

“

IT’S ABOUT STUDENTS MAXIMIZING THEIR SEASON AND COACHES WORKING TOGETHER TO GET THE MOST OUT OF [ATHLETES].”

CRAIG ELLEGOOD

”

pation [and] coaches working together to get the most out of [athletes] and also maximizing the ability of the team.”

Although it is hard to predict what the future of Tino athletics will look like, Oswald would not be surprised to see some sports die off while others like cricket and lacrosse find their way in. Furthermore, Ellegood hopes that increased accountability and commitment will lead to a better athletic world

SCAN FOR MORE COVERAGE

Social

HAILEY RYU editor-in-chief

A

s new civil rights emerged in America’s government and changes arose in society, social life at Cupertino High School has evolved throughout the years to match these new reforms. From the Sadie Hawkins Dance to Homecoming and Winter Formal now, Cupertino High School’s social life has drastically developed over the years.

“

THESE [ACTIVITIES] EVOLVE WITH YOU AND THEY EVOLVE WITH SOCIETY. WES MORSE

HOMECOMING

”

DANCES

In addition to the three school dances that occur annually — Homecoming, Winter Formal and Prom — the school used to hold a Back to School dance and a Sadie Hawkins Dance

SCAN FOR MORE COVERAGE

INVESTIGATIONS | 15

Homecoming is one of the largest class competition events of the school year, with months of preparation and planning going into executing the event. Currently, Homecoming consists of class skits, dances, themed decorations that embellish the quad and hallways, the annual football game and most recently, the Homecoming dance. Although Homecoming has been a tradition at Cupertino, the execution of the event has changed to tackle topics of sustainability and entertainment.

Years before sustainability initiatives regarding posters started, 15 Homecoming posters were utilized by classes. Then, Wes Morse — former Associated Student Body advisor and history teacher — started focusing on lowering the number of posters. Now, ASB requires classes

to create two posters and one backdrop, a significant decrease in the amount of posters needed in efforts to push towards environmental sustainability.

When Morse was a student at CHS in the late 1980s, Homecoming consisted of the Wagon Wheel being decorated like a maze and a skit in the quad during brunch without dancing. Slowly, dancing got introduced into skits and now is one of the most prominent aspects of the Homecoming rallies.

Additionally, the Homecoming dance -– which would take place after the football game — went past midnight, which is something CHS dances do not do today.

Homecoming court, previously Homecoming Royalty with a Homecoming King and Queen, was changed to degender it.

“These things evolve with you and they evolve with society.

They evolve with changing demographics and changing historical concepts of equity, and I think our activities are in as good a shape as they’ve ever been,” said Morse.

SPORTS

TINO’S NEW DIVING TEAM Logistics on how the new diving team formed

assemble the diving team this season. Luc and Tran immediatefter being disbanded for ly set out to train for the new sport a year, Cupertino High this past February.

School’s diving team makes After the diving pool and equipa comeback for the 2024 season.

Though small, the two-athlete team pioneered the re-emerWE DON’T REALLY gence of CHS’s diving team to a THINK OF IT AS LIKE competitive level.

COMPETING AGAINST Seniors Sydney Tran and Alisha EACH OTHER. IT’S Luc, both varsity water polo playJUST KIND OF ONE ers and swimmers for CHS, have BIG TEAM. been interested in diving since last year.

SYDNEY TRAN Starting the diving team again was no easy feat. Both athletes attempted to re-form the t e a m during the ment at Cupertino High School 2023 spring sea- were removed years ago, the s o n but were school’s diving team has had to unable to in- find arrangements to practice form their with other schools. This season, coach of both athletes commute to Monta their in- Vista High School for daily pract e n t i o n s tices. Although MVHS is a rival in time. school, both teams are able H o w e v e r , to practice together without they were any problems. success- Said Tran, “We became ful in their really good friends efforts in with the people on the 2024 and Monta Vista team. And were able to we don’t really think of

EVAN LU | RISHITA SHAH

A

16 | DESIGNED BY VICTORIA HUNT

writers

“

”

Luc even highlighted the community in the diving teams across the division. Said Luc, “Normally we practice with Monta Vista, but then, sometimes we have practices with Homestead.” This closeknit relationship also spills over to how meets operate. More unconventional than the typical swim meets, Luc and Tran discussed how several teams are present at one diving meet to compete with each other, rather than the typical team versus team swim meets.

“We had a m e e t w i t h

three teams, so us, Monta Vista and Fremont.

Because it’s just easier to do it together,” Luc said. Additionally, since the coaches are running the events, including scoring, many different coaches are required at each meet.

When asked about picking up the

FEATURING

ALISHA LUC & SYDNEY TRAN sport for the first time as seniors, both athletes agreed that the skills acquired from swimming do not transfer over to diving. After eight weeks of nailing down their newly learned dives, Luc and Tran were able to compete in the El Camino division. However, both had different experiences overcoming the mental block that comes as a packaged deal with

t h e sport. “ A n d , for me, the hardest part of diving is just like getting past the mental block.

Because your brain will not let you do some things. So you have to get past that,” Luc said.

Tran shed some light on her gymnastics past, which had skills that carried over to diving, allowing her to pick up diving faster and get past that mental block.

In the end, both divers have been able to pick up the sport very well.

Luc has found that her favorite, yet most challenging dive, is the front pike dive, and Tran’s favorite is the inward dive.

A l though i t is

a small t e a m , Tran and Luc are committed to this new sport and have had a great experience as firstyear divers.

As a bonus, diving gets to be in a hot tub, whereas swimmers do not.

“All the swimmers when they see us in the hot tub they be like, we wish we were in the hot tub,” Luc said.

“If anyone is reading this article, you should go and join diving, because it’s really fun.

And I get to

meet a lot of new people and learn a new sport,” Tran said

SPORTS | 17

ATHLETE OF THE MONTH:

RUI PAI

18 | THE PROSPECTOR

A look into how she balances three sports

Photo by Shaona Das

YEECHEN PANG

T

photo editor

gymnas-

was rigorous, it made me realize my limitations and helped me grow,” she said. “[My experience as a leader involves] teaching people to love what they’re doing because we’re not going to be in high school forever. So when you’re at a practice, it’s dragging on, like, ‘Oh, I just want to go home.’ But you need to realize that you signed up for this because you love it,” said Pai. Despite her packed schedule, Pai maintains a positive perspective on life, emphasizing the importance of the present. Reflecting on her experiences as a section leader in band and a varsity captain in cheerleading, she has learned how to support others in challenging situations. Pai encourages others to wholeheartedly enjoy their passions, recognizing that high school experiences are limited.

As a junior balancing three sports, Pai emphasizes the importance of knowing one’s limit.

“Don’t stretch yourself too thin,”

“

WHILE THE TRAINING WAS RIGOROUS, IT MADE ME REALIZE MY LIMITATIONS AND HELPED ME GROW.

RUI PAI

”

Pai said. “Know your limits, like I’m not gonna do another sport on top of all this.”

Said Pai, “Take what you can do and make sure it’s something that you love”

SPORTS | 19

hroughout the school year, you can find junior Rui Pai as part of several after-school practices. As a member of varsity cheerleading, gymnastics and marching band, Pai dedicates her time year-round to these sports, often dealing with overlapping seasons and attending dual practices.

Reflecting on her journey, Pai recalls starting gymnastics at the young age of three or four and reaching competitive levels before taking a break in middle school due to quarantine. However when the opportunity arose in high school, she decided to give it another try. Said Pai in an interview via Zoom, “I kind of did [re] join gymnastics on a whim, but it’s been pretty fun.”

Pai’s band journey began playing the trumpet in sixth grade, eventually leading her to become a section leader. “I never considered quitting the band. I wanted to continue playing my instrument in high school,” she said.

Pai also joined cheerleading as an alternative to gymnastics.

“When I first heard about tryouts, I didn’t know that the school had a gymnastics team,” Pai said. “So I decided to try out for cheerleading as a way to stay active and have fun.”

After a hiatus from

tics, Pai faced challenges upon returning to the sport and also in cheerleading. She had a difficult time dealing with the realization that she had lost many of the skills she previously excelled at in gymnastics.

Said Pai, “I think I’ve come to a place where I’ve accepted that I’m probably never going to be able to do every single thing I used to be able to do when I was at my peak [...] but I think it’s enough for me now that I just like I know I’m trying and I know that like it’s still there.”

Pai finds it difficult to manage her responsibilities as she manages her overlapping practice schedules and academic responsibilities.

Said Pai, “Most of it depends on the year, because one year the practices didn’t overlap at all. They were on alternating days so I barely had time to do homework.”

However, this year, she faced a more demanding schedule as band and cheerleading had similar practice times. To manage this overlap, Pai talked it out with both her coach and band director, negotiating small changes to her schedule.

“If there was a day where I have practice, I know I’m not getting homework done so I’m not going to leave homework to do for that day. So if something is due the next day. I’m just going to do it like two days before,” Pai said.

Pai’s experiences in competitive gymnastics, especially in the Junior Olympic circuit, provided valuable lessons in dedication and hard work. “While the training

B

A

FEATURES

TINO PUBLISHED CREATIVE WRITERS X I Exploring the journeys of three students writers and their publishing processes

K

Y B

F

D L

G

Z

K C

O

20 | DESIGNED BY MIYA WIDMAN

D

H

R

J

C

T

E

Upasana Puranik IRA LELE

U

website manager

pasana Puranik, a senior at Cupertino, finds great joy and fulfillment from writing. As a self-published author of children’s stories and picture books, she works hard to continue pursuing her passion for literature.

Puranik began her writing journey by creating guitar composition books wherein she would improvise and write scores. Through this hobby, she gained experience and confidence in expressing herself on paper. Slowly, her love for writing expanded to include short story books in middle school.

Even though she became busier as she entered high school, Puranik never disregarded her love for writing.

Said Puranik, “You will inevi-

tably create time, create space and make room for a passion that you like.”

Puranik’s appreciation for writing comes from the enjoyment and purpose it brings her.

By connecting her love for her

“

”

ONCE YOU START, YOU JUST CAN’T STOP.

UPASANA PURANIK

FEATURES | 21

family with writing, Puranik creates a special bond between her pieces and her loved ones. She looks to her younger brother as her main inspiration for all her children’s stories; her first short storybook is a collection of moments shared between the two of them growing up. Puranik observed a lack of representation in the picture books she found, and so she took it upon herself to create these materials.

Said Puranik, “I haven’t seen any books relating to Indian Americans growing up here [...] and so, for my cousin and younger brother I started writing stories that relate to their background.”

Throughout the publishing process, Puranik felt encouraged by her family and friends who supported her consistently. When she faced challenges and held onto doubts, they encouraged her to pursue getting her stories out to the public.

“They told me my work was

good and they saw potential in me. So I thought ‘Okay, why not give it a shot?’” Puranik said.

Puranik reached out to libraries across the Bay Area such as the Cupertino Library and Santa Library through both email and in-person conversations to publish and advertise her book. Puranik also emailed the book acquisitions of these libraries, who are in charge of uploading media to platforms like Overdrive, where her book would then become accessible online for viewers to borrow and read.

Puranik draws inspiration not just from her brothe r , but from her own b a c k - ground and day-today life as well. As an Indian American, Puranik recognizes the gaps in the representation of her culture in literature. Puranik uses her writing to bridge this gap while staying clear in her hopes of having fun and enjoying the art of crafting stories.

Said Puranik, “Once you start, you just can’t stop”

ALISHA SANKHE NITYA DHULIPALA

A

copy editor

22 | THE PROSPECTOR

s the founder and president of Tino Writers, senior Alisha Sankhe is highly respected among writers in the Cupertino community for her profound grasp of the publishing world. While she frequently finds inspiration from authors such as Jhumpa Lahiri, she also serves as a motivator for many aspiring writers.

Sankhe’s passion for creative writing stems from her life-long love for reading. Said Sankhe, “I was a really big reader. [My mother] read this book called ‘The Jungle ABC’ and I would beg to read that book every day, every single night, sometimes multiple times in the same night until she got sick of it and had to hide it. [...] So I guess at some point along the way, I figured, ‘Hey, I like reading so much.

What if I did it myself? What if I tried writing a book?’”

Although Sankhe’s interests have expanded and shifted through genres over the years, writing has consistently served her as a means of self-expression.

Sankhe initially embarked on her writing journey with her love for horror fiction, completing and aiming to traditionally publish a horror thriller novel at the age of 12. However, her interests have recently

shifted towards poetry and forms of prose, such as creative non-fiction.

Sankhe’s journey through traditional publishing involved securing a literary agent by querying various agencies and selecting agents she believed were most likely to be interested in publishing her novel, based on their brief public biography. For instance, Sankhe sought out agents who previously focused on works similar to the novel she had written, tailored for middle school students and featuring women of color. Only after an agent agreed to represent her work did they assist in submitting it to publishing houses.

“Your literary agent is like your college counselor who is helping you apply to colleges, and the colleges are the publishing houses,” Sankhe said.

There are also opportunities for writers to have their work recognized outside of the average publishing process. Up until 2022, a competition called Pitch Madness — or PitMad — took place on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter. This competition involved writers pitching their books in one tweet, under the PitMad hashtag, where agents would actively look through the posts and give writers offers before they were even queried. This contest, and the community it created, resulted in Twitter becoming a vital platform for writers.

Despite securing an agent and progressing significantly in the publishing process, Sankhe still faced numerous obstacles.

“Traditional publishing, especially

as a 12-year-old, was really, really tough to navigate, because [...] there’s just so much rejection that no one prepares you for,” Sankhe said.

A common challenge many writers face in the Bay Area includes maintaining an interest in creative writing while also being in an environment that cultivates a STEM-focused student majority. However, Sankhe has broken the stereotype that one must choose between STEM and the arts by intending to pursue neuroscience as her undergraduate field of study all while continuing to nurture her passion for creative writing.

“I feel like you can’t just have one discipline ruling over everything. That’s just not the way the world works and not the way the world should work,” Sankhe said

SCAN FOR MORE COVERAGE

ANGELA KIM IRA LELE

A

website manager

ngela Kim, a freshman at Cupertino High School, chooses creative writing as her preferred medium of self-expression. Through community-driven hobbies and a personal admiration for teen writers, she creates a path to motivate herself and the youth around her to write.

Kim’s fascination with writing began at a young age, as the skill came to her naturally and piqued her interest. While it was fun and enjoyable, it also became a way for her to escape from daily tasks and she slowly became more devoted to the art.

Said Kim, “If I’m having any problems or anything going on in my life, [writing] makes me feel better and it’s a way to connect back with myself.”

As time passed, Kim practiced writing on a new level by entering

competitions for young writers.

Kim uses her experiences with competitions to acknowledge the downsides of competitive hobbies.

Said Kim, “When I read other people’s writing, I [start] to compare myself and I feel like that’s really common, especially if it’s a

“

YOU GET TO SEE EVERYONE’S PERSPECTIVES AND HOW EVERYONE THINKS DIFFERENTLY.

ANGELA KIM

”

FEATURES | 23

really strong passion.”

Yet, Kim also draws inspiration from young writers around her, finding pieces and works that she can take pointers from. This positive spin drives her to keep improving her writing, in spite of any discouragement from external comparisons.

Kim eventually compiled a few of her short stories and poems alongside other Bay Area teen writers to compose an anthology of creative works titled “Silicon Valley Students Writing Collection.”After self-publishing the chapbook on platforms like Amazon, the group donated all funds to the charity “Save the Children.”

By tailoring her work toward teen audiences and by donating funds, Kim endeavors to impact her community and help it flourish.

“I think writing as a hobby [...] is different than trying to get out what you love to do, and spread it to other people and help [them].

And I really wanted to become a

part of that and be able to bring more awareness to writing because it’s not a very popular topic,” said Kim. Aft e r school, Kim is a part of a youth writi n g team that holds monthly meeti n g s .

They utilize this opportunity to discuss and share new works, gain feedback and obtain constructive criticism. Through connecting with her writing peers, Kim observes various writing styles and forms of literature.

Said Kim, “You get to see everyone’s perspectives and how everyone thinks differently [...] and it’s really cool to see how everyone puts that into their writing.”

Kim now chooses to give back by tutoring younger writers. Her volunteering entails working with students to help them enhance their technique and grow their skill sets.

Said Kim, “I always looked up to people older than me, and that’s how I first got my inspiration to start writing. But I feel like now that I’m able to help younger kids improve their writing and learn it, it’s like a new way of looking at [writing]”

24 | DESIGNED BY KATIE KIM

Answer Key: Brunch Foods (cinnamon roll, parfait, Lucky Charms, scone) Winter Formal Themes (Best Part, Afterglow, Moonlit Memories, Falling Like the Stars) Class Competitions (homecoming, Tinolympics, second harvest, rally games) 24-25 ASB Executive Goals (more burritos, dead week, Apple pay, transparency)

SHAONA DAS business manager

Cupertino High School edition: group words that share a common trend

Tino Connections POSTSCRIPT

MBTI TINO SPOTS

Common places in Cupertino each Myers-Briggs Type Indicator personality type would be in JOLIE HAN writer

ISTJ: If they didn’t go home immediately after school, it’s possible you could find an ISTJ in the robotics room.

ISFP: Look down! One might be sleeping on the floor at any given moment.

INTJ: Any secret, quiet spot is perfect for the stoic INTJ. Once they find one, they never turn away (until someone finds them).

INFP: Pick a café on Main Street and you’ll find at least one outwardly studious (but inwardly wondering if they’ll survive) INFP. ESTJ: If you stumble into the science TA hallway, you’ll likely see an ESTJ finding joy in marking others’ work down.

ISTP: The band room harbors tons of ISTPs, but usually less for practicing and more for just hanging out with their friends.

ENFJ: Bright and driven, if you ever see someone sunbathing on campus with their work next to them it’s probably an ENFJ.

ENTJ: With their potential to be headstrong politicians, many ENTJs are intrinsically led to the ASB room.

ESTP: If you haven’t seen an ESTP zoom screaming past you yet, try checking the field or weight training room.

ESFJ: Always found in their favorite hallway, the ESFJ is either greeting a friend or already with their friend group.

INFJ: Snuggled in their favorite classroom, the INFJs were hit the hardest when bean bags and life-sized teddy bears were removed from campus.

ENTP: Standing on GPA Hill, an ENTP will definitely be proposing the most morally gray hypotheticals known to man.

ESFP: Likely hanging with friends, ESFPs could probably be found hanging out in the wagon wheel.

ISFJ: Studying at the library even through lunch, the ISFJ sparks jealousy with how well they seem to have their life together.

POSTSCRIPT | 25

INTP: Any bench on campus will likely have a lone INTP either drawing or thinking about the ENTP’s strangely captivating hypotheticals.

ENFP: My fellow ENFPs! The bubbliness of the quad attracts you even though your cheeks hurt from saying hi to someone every two seconds.

The Unspoken Reality of the Younger Sibling

26 | THE PROSPECTOR

What life is like after the older sister moves out for college

The Unspoken Reality of the Younger Sibling KATIE KIM

T

postscript editor

he adage “the older sibling has it the worst” holds some truth — the oldest is usually a courageous trailblazer paving the path for their younger and more naive sibling. Yet, this perspective overlooks the often unspoken reality of the younger sibling left behind in the dust.

My sister is three years older than I am, and we shared one year of high school together before her move to southern California for college. Our age difference never hindered our bond. We were very close growing up, occasionally fighting as siblings yet confiding in each other about things we would not even tell our closest friends.

I have always admired her intelligence, a trait my family constantly praised her for. Since she was young, my sister was an avid reader and brought a book with her wherever she went. My parents said her love for reading

sured me to fill it with my own pres-

ence.

I could not live up to her example, much less exceed it as my parents hoped. I tried stepping into her shoes and chasing after her accomplishments to claim as mine, but I struggled because the anticipated sense of fulfillment never came. It felt as if I were stepping into the shoes of someone with a completely different size.

Nothing in the world could have prepared me for losing my lifelong roommate and best friend.

We occasionally called during her

first year of college, and she recounted her stories in a world outside of what I knew. She showed me pictures of people I had never met and places I had never seen.

It was strange since, up until this point, we shared most of our experiences. Now, she was experiencing them without me.

Despite ongoing challenges with opening up to my parents, the prospect of graduation and moving away from home in the near future motivated me to work harder at establishing a closer relationship with them. While I still feel

“

I WAS USED TO HAVING MY SISTER BRIDGE THE CHASM IN MY RELATIONSHIP WITH MY PARENTS.

KATIE KIM

”

pressured to emulate my sister’s accomplishments, I have recently come to a c knowledge that there are differences in our personalities that have been present since childhood. As we have grown, we embrace unique aspirations and passions due to our differences.

Although my sister may have forged a trail ahead of me, and I face the inevitable expectations of following it, my life is ultimately mine to shape. I will gladly walk down the path of life with my sister, but I will be navigating my future on my own path beside hers

POSTSCRIPT | 27

c o n tribu ted to her success in high school, so they encouraged me to follow in her footsteps. However, I have always preferred colored pixels on screens over words on pages.

She also communicated with and expressed her affection to my parents easily. Every night after my family ate dinner together, my father would launch into a

philosophical conversation that my sister eagerly engaged in. She would reveal glimpses of her life to my father in these conversations. Sometimes, they would talk for as long as three hours, while I retreated to my room three hours earlier. Discussing personal matters did not come naturally to me, especially with my parents. They never seemed to truly understand me. Only my sister did, but that was enough for me.

My sister’s absence after she moved out did not immediately impact me. It was a gradual phenomenon that I only began noticing when I looked back on my life with her at home. I was used to having my sister bridge the chasm in my relationship with my parents.

Without her during dinner, my parents usually spoke to each other in Korean, and I attempted to follow along in vain. Eventually, I tuned out their discussions. I never once stayed at the table to talk with my father after we cleared the plates.

I felt guilty every time I walked away from him, knowing that I could never be like his first daughter. I suppose my sister’s lack of presence in the household pres-

FOLLOW US

WEBSITE: CHSPROSPECTOR.COM INSTAGRAM: @CHSPROSPECTOR PODCAST: THE PROSPECTOR PODCAST FLICKR: THECHSPROSPECTOR

[BACK COVER]