PALOS VERDES HIGH SCHOOL - ISSUE 7, VOLUME 29 - MAY 23, 2025
Pages 2- 3: Graduating Seniors’ Next Steps Page 8: How to Get to Know Your Roommate
Pages 5-7: Senior Destinations Map Page 11: Senior Memories and Predictions
by
(Photo
Quinn Kearns)
SENIORS
Elle Campbell off to Notre Dame
By Cat Allocco reporter
From the dance studio to the courtroom, Elle Campbell’s passions drive her involvement in the Los Angeles community. Growing up in the world of competitive dance, Campbell is no stranger to determination and hard work.
A diligent student and compassionate friend, Campbell is regarded by teachers and fellow students as an all-around great person.
“She works so hard at everything she does and still manages to be there for all of her friends no matter what,” senior Sierra Hickey said.
While dancing at a highly competitive level, Campbell has coached a local Pop Warner cheerleading team, maintained a program integrating dance and literature at the Boys and Girls Club of San Pedro and supported our school on the PV Varsity Song team.
spontaneity with compassion and always making life brighter for everyone around her,” senior Avery Tydlaska said.
Following her passion for law, Campbell aims to gain legal experience to one day pursue a career that addresses the evergrowing inequities in education.
As an intern at the Los Angeles Superior Courts this past summer, the largest trial court in America, she shadowed judges and lawyers in misdemeanor, felony, mental health and other courts.
This experience, combined with her learnings from PV’s own mock trial team, led her to earn MVP at the Teach Democracy Mock Trial competition this school year as a defense attorney.
On top of this, Campbell worked last summer to research public misconceptions and economic disparities within hospice care for grant applications at Providence TrinityCare Hospice Foundation.
Campbell is thrilled to be attending the University of Notre Dame in the fall, and to continue fueling her zeal for legal justice.
Taking Flight: Chaehwan Jeong’s Journey to the Air Force Academy
By Sierra Hickey reporter
In this year’s graduating class, many students are preparing to move far and begin exciting adventures. Among them, Chaehwan Jeong is taking a particularly unique path. After graduation, he will attend the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
The U.S. Service Academies train students each year to become officers in the various branches of the military. The path is rigorous and demanding—both physically and mentally, but Jeong is ready to rise to this challenge.
When speaking about what got him into this path, Jeong said, “I went to one of the summer seminars for the naval academy which they have over summer in junior year. I spent a week there going through the process of what the midshipmen at the naval academy go through.”
Reflecting on his experience there, Jeoung continued, “I felt a connection with everyone and was inspired by their passion for trying to serve in the military. This experience will really show if you’re committed to the path.”
Getting into the United States Air Force Academy is a multistep process. In order to go into an academy, you have to apply for a nomination by a representative in your area.
to these academies paid off.
“I ended up getting into multiple academies, and weighed my options by figuring out what field I wanted to go into after college rather than what college I would want to attend.”
Kristen Nelson, Jeong’s counselor,
shared her perspective on this accomplishment.
“I’m so excited for him, he told me this was his goal when he was a freshman... he’s had injuries and setbacks and one thing I really admire about him is he always pushes through,” she shared.
As he prepares to start this next chapter, Jeong offered advice for others considering the same path.
“Elle is the kind of friend who brings positive energy to every moment, blending
“I’m super excited to utilize the many resources at Notre Dame to participate in undergraduate research, it’s one of the main reasons I chose to attend.”
Kallista Wang Commits to UPenn’s Wharton School of Business
By Aaron Propst sports editor
For most high school students, college admissions comes with a mixture of nerves and excitement. For senior Kallista Wang, all the hard work was deemed worthy.
With the dream acceptance secured, she knew where the next four years would take her: the prestigious Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania.
Over her high school years, Wang balanced a rigorous course load with many extracurriculars that helped her explore her areas of interest.
Youth and Government is a YMCA organization that provides students with hands-on experience in the field of government.
During her two years in the program, she earned the role of parliamentarian officer and partook in real life civic engagement at model government interventions.
“Youth and Government intrigued me as an opportunity to learn more about legislature and explore how public policy heavily influences the way a business functions,” Wang said.
“Beyond educational aspects, I got to meet students across California, practice public speaking and make lasting connections with a lot of my current friends.”
Her mother, Peanie Wang, spoke on K. Wang’s dedication.
“I recall the countless sacrifices she made...the challenges she pushed through...It also reflects her deep sense of purpose: a desire not just to succeed for her own sake, but to use her talents to
make a difference in the world,” she said.
Through the National Charity League, K. Wang’s dedication to service naturally evolved into a desire to empower others through entrepreneurship and innovation.
“Kallista worked with various female founders of startups and saw how each of those women were able to overcome key obstacles to start a new business,” her father Alex Wang said.
K. Wang was selected as a Junior Venture Capitalist by the Women Founders Network, and this experience helped her find her passion in business.
“I want to build a career that combines strategic thinking, relationship management, and creativity,” K. Wang said.
“I’m especially interested in investment banking or consulting...and then eventually moving into private equity or venture capital where I can help businesses grow long term.”
“I got a nomination from representative Ted Lieu for three of the different academies,” Jeong explained.
Additionally you must complete a standard college application along with a physical assesment. Despite the tedious application, Jeong’s hard work in applying
“If there’s anyone else that wants to go to the academy, I’d definitely focus on leadership roles throughout high school.”
Although the future will be tough, Jeong sees the light in the journey.
“I’m excited to build close relationships with the people in my quadrant, and to see where the next four years will take me.”
To New Haven and Beyond: Caimin McDuffie’s Journey to Yale
By Ella Gardner reporter
Very few students have the opportunity to attend an Ivy League university, but Caimin McDuffie is one of the select few who will be attending Yale University this fall.
His academic excellence, various athletic endeavors and leadership on and off campus have led him to the east coast where he will be studying Engineering and Economics.
“I chose Yale because everyone I met there was super interesting and accomplished, but still social and fun.”
McDuffie has dedicated himself to many extracurriculars and student organizations throughout his high school career, in addition to writing a children’s book.
“I take my shot, and if it doesn’t work, I get back up and try again,” he explained.
This attitude is what allows him to thrive on the varsity lacrosse team, in PVIT, while climbing mountains and during his work with ASB.
His family has also supported him along the way.
“My mom has been my constant confidante [and a really good college counselor],” McDuffie said. “My dad challenged himself and climbed nearly 20 mountains with me despite having no experience.”
His mother, Gina McDuffie, added, “He is very perceptive and genuinely concerned for people, so he can easily have a conversation with anyone and make friends. He thinks quickly and differently, so he sees solutions others don’t.”
She describes his tenacity, independence and wide-ranging curiosity, “He has never been constrained by a need
to do what others do…It’s why he is the most interesting person I know.”
There are also many teachers who have encouraged him through his high school years.
“Mrs. Norris, Ms. Kim and Mr. Warren sparked my love for engineering and problem solving. All my teachers and mentors have had a huge impact on my path throughout high school,” he said.
ASB advisor Jama Maxfield noted, “He has shown true strength in character this year and leads by example. He’s proud of who he is and he should be. He’s self aware and that’s so unique for a high school student.”
As McDuffie prepares for this next chapter, his supporters share a common hope: that he continues to be celebrated, inspired, and happy. With his values, talents, and heart, there’s little doubt
he’ll make his mark at Yale—and beyond.
(Photo courtesy of Elle Campbell)
(Photo by Sierra Hickey)
McDuffie reading to younger students. (Photo courtesy of Caimin McDuffie)
(Photo courtesy of Kallista Wang)
Mayrose’s May Outfits
A glimpse into Ruby’s closet
By Nicolas Boixo-fernandez De La Cigoña social media/reporter
Q: Where do you tend to get your clothes?
A: I thrift all my clothes from Goodwill, besides my shoes and obvious things.
I get them from Goodwill, Salvation Army and pretty much any thrift store I can find, from my friends, from my parents.
I just like the way they fit better, I like a used feel. I can’t really remember the last time that I got new clothes from a store.
Q: Craziest thrifting experience?
A: I can’t say that I’ve had a super crazy or gross one, but I just find a bunch of really funny graphic tees that I’m really tempted to buy, but then I’m like I’m not going to waste my money cause I would just never wear it and I would just look at this, and laugh.
Once I just saw twenty white tee shirts with just this random baby on it, the same baby over and over again, maybe it was for a baby shower or something, but there was no “Benny’s Birthday” or whatever, so that was pretty funny. I was like, “Oh my god, I can get one for all my friends!”
Q: Biggest fashion ick?
A: Well, I hate fast fashion, cheaply made clothes, I don’t get it. There’s other alternatives for inexpensive clothes, just go thrifting, reuse your clothes, and online stores are killing the environment and buying one thing when you already have twenty other versions of it.
I just think that we need to be more sustainable, and reduce, reuse, recycle, which is why I thrift.
Q: Any tips for other people?
A: I found that you should just wear whatever you want, whatever makes you confident, whatever you think is cool, whatever you like, just don’t care what everybody else thinks cause you’ll find out that they don’t really care either.
Just wear whatever makes you happy, and you’ll find that people who don’t like it will stay away from you and people who do, you’ll stick with and you’ll find the people who are good to you.
Seniors Soaring Toward Global Opportunity
By Kelly Bojorquez and Ella Hansen reporters
Studying abroad is a beloved and highly recommended program offered by many colleges in which students are allowed to explore the world and study in different countries. This leads students becoming immersed in various cultures and can benefit individuals who may struggle socially, as it introduces the student to new people, foods and environments.
USC.
Where are you going next year?
“Out of my options of Rome, London and Paris, Paris sounds the most fun. Plus my brother went to Paris for a semester during his college years and he recommended it.”
What are you most looking forward to?
“I am looking forward to trying all of the food.”
attending IE University in Spain.
Where are you going next year?
“I am going to study in Madrid, Spain. Out of all the options in Spain I liked IE because it’s a really good business school, which is what I’m going to be studying, and I feel like it’s going to be a great opportunity.”
What are you most looking forward to?
“I’m excited to be with my family because my family lives there. I’m also excited to go out too, the night life is really great and I can meet new people.”
Senna Neiman is attending the University of Exeter in the UK.
Where are you going next year?
“I will be studying at the University of Exeter getting a BA in Drama. I chose the school because of the stunning location, closeness to the beach, the size of the town and the prestige of the school.”
What are you most looking forward to?
“I am really looking forward to familiarizing myself with the town and being able to explore the local area, as it’s an old Roman city and near a lot of beautiful architecture and scenery like the park from ‘Pride and Prejudice.’ ”
Mastering the Strings: Senior Zoe Barton’s Musical Journey
By Ruby Mayrose centerspread editor
While walking around the halls, not a lot of students think to venture into the musical courtyard. But if you do, you’ll find heaven in the Palos Verdes High School music room. This is also where you’ll find senior Zoe Barton
Having played the violin since the age of three, practice is like second nature to Barton, the music room her second home.
As a freshman, she quickly made her presence known in the PVHS music department, rising up the ranks to first chair in the student-run orchestra.
Her presence has not gone unnoticed in the PVHS music department. Senior Olivia Kao reflects on her involvement.
“Zoe has always been so involved and available for us in the music department. She’s always participating in every event or concert, and is so helpful with the underclassmen,” she said.
Barton is also part of the Colburn School, a conservatory in downtown Los Angeles, where she participates in orchestra, group rehearsals and private lessons every Sunday. Her level of dedication is profound.
“It’s super rewarding, all of the practicing and rehearsing, because even though it can be really frustrating, it’s worth it because I can feel myself getting better as the months go by,” Barton said.
Barton’s senior year presented a unique challenge, as the application process for applying to conservatories was especially difficult.
In the fall, Barton spent her time
preparing her audition repertoire, in addition to keeping up with regular school.
“I would practice five or six hours a day, even on a school night just to get these pieces ready to record.”
Once the pre-screenings were complete, Barton flew to eight separate schools for her in-person auditions.
“It was definitely a challenge, and missing that much school was tough, but there was something gratifying and weirdly enjoyable about it.”
In the end, Barton’s tireless efforts lead her to attend The Juilliard School in New York—the first do so in 20 years. She will study Violin Performance under Professor Joel Smirnoff.
SCAD’s Newest Recruit: Ava Hoynacki
By Zoe Barton reporter
Ava Hoynacki’s room looks exactly like what you’d think an aspiring fashion designer’s room would look like. When you walk in, you’re greeted with sketches, fabrics, mannequins and at the center of it all, a desk with a sewing machine. It’s the same machine she’s used since she was little, when she first discovered her passion for fashion.
“When I was eight, I was obsessed with the TV show ‘Project Runway’…me and my mom would watch it all the time, and my grandma bought me a sewing machine that I still use,” Hoynacki said.
Hoynacki began taking formal sewing lessons, but stopped shortly after finding her own rhythm and teaching herself through practice.
Developing her skill, she has since participated in the costume crew for the PVHS Drama Department.
Cami Klein, a close friend of Hoynacki and a member of the PVHS drama department, said that, “Ava has definitely been one of the best costume crew members that I’ve seen.”
“She’s super serious and driven about it, which is definitely appreciated by every single person.”
Taking her talent to the next level, Hoynacki has decided to pursue a career in fashion design.
“I’ve been sewing for a long time, and it’s the only thing I’ve really stuck with. There were other things I thought about doing along the way, until I realized I didn’t really know how to do them. But I did know how to sew, so I decided I was going to become a fashion designer.”
The process of applying to fashion schools was challenging. For most of the schools, a portfolio of designs was required to be submitted, with some requiring specific projects that Hoynacki had to do.
Ultimately, Hoynacki chose to commit to the Savannah College of Art and Design, one of the highly regarded schools for fashion design in the country, with the goal of owning a fashion house.
Her growth as a designer and as a person has been exponential, and Klein said “Her passion, personality, and kind soul has stayed the same, but her confidence, and and her ability to embrace her uniqueness has grown so much in a way that she is almost a new person.” “She’s so bold…and she doesn’t want anyone or anything to get her down…and I think everyone should be like that.”
Neil Yeich is attending a transfer program through
(Photo by Zoe Barton)
(Photo courtesy of Zoe Barton)
Telmo Corral is
How Much Have You Changed Since Freshman Year?
“I think since freshman year I have become way more social and really pushed myself out of my comfort zone,” said Ella Tillson
“I’ve learned how much more successful one can be if they’re passionate about what they do. I’ve also learned how being kind can make a huge difference in a person’s life,” said Ben Forte.
(Photo courtesy of EllaTillson) (Photo courtesy of Ben Forte)
“As a freshman, I was convinced that I would not continue art as a college student. Now, I understand my passion is illustration and animation,” said Ariana Valenzuela.
“I am much more open-minded and collaborative. I also have stopped worrying about what other people think of me and embracing my true passions!” said Ella Gardner.
Advice to Your Past Self
Juniors Say Goodbye to Seniors
“I’ve known Ava since elementary school and I’m so proud of everything she’s done from acting in drama to going on to pursue a career in fashion. She inspires me to be creative when life is boring, to have fun when things are serious and to be happy when I’m pessimistic. I know she’s going to go on to do great things and I’m so grateful to have been able to be part of her journey.” - Cami Michel
“Reese joined cheer this school year and we started becoming close the day we met. She made me feel like I always had someone on the team and never made me question whether or not she was a good person or friend. She is a very inclusive person, not only to me, but to everyone on the team. I am so happy for her and I know that she will excel in college.” - Brianna Garcia
“I met Crystal through swimming since we were on the same club team. Crystal has honestly been an incredible homie who I know I can go to if I ever need help. She is passionate in everything she does and hardworking too which is admirable In the future I know she will achieve amazing things because of the person she is. I hope she has fun in college and [I’m going to] miss her a lot.” - Hillary Nguyen
“I met Hanna during summer before my freshman year at tennis tryouts. The past three years, she’s been such a good influence and such an important person to me. She’s not only super supportive, but also kind, fun to talk to and fun to hang out with. She can go anywhere and do the most amazing things with her art.” - Sofia LeGallo
(Photo courtesy ofAriana Valenzuela) (Photo courtesy of Ella Gardner)
(Graphic by Valerie Villegas and Charlie Russo)
(Graphic by Zoe Barton)
(Graphic byAaron Propst)
Class Of 2025
Biola University
Elizabeth Correa
Cal Maritime
Jaeden Bettencourt
Nicholas Musgrave
Ashley Rodriguez
Cal Poly Pomona
Matthew Ngo
Cal Poly San Luis Obispo
Cassie Chumley
Kyle Colaruotolo
Annika Gruettemann
Chloe Hartman
Charlotte Hoyne
Owen Jones
Abigail Lowenstein
Chapman University
Hannah Andersson
Nate Friedman
Weston Hamson
Emma Mangham
Nenna Okorocha
Julia Stein
CSU Long Beach
Monica Basha
Sienna Potter
Claremont McKenna College
Patrick Klink
El Camino College
Noah Bandy
Scott Barrios
Sofia Bernhard
Michelle Brajevic
Lucas Bustillos
Lola Calandrelli
Krista Castillo
Westin Conklin
Ryley Goodrich
Dominic Holmes
Jose Mangual
Gianni Mecozzi
Truman Moore
Jolie Netus
Nicholas Perrakis
Jon Sarmiento
JR Ungaro
LA Harbor College
Jack Fugatti-Stumfall
Ariah Galaz
In State Destinations
Loyola Marymount
University
Jonathan Axtell
Brian Demott
Ugo Okorocha
Sofia Reinhart
Pepperdine
University
Klearchos Angouras
Amalie Ounanian
Pitzer College
Kate Sherry
Abigail Tran
University of Redlands
Heath Johnson
Saint Mary’s College of California
Sofia Juelle
San Diego State
University
Jack Bandy
Julia Fox
Treasure Garcia
Madi Ho
Joey Koyama
Malia Leal
Mattias Nelson
Carter Przybylowicz
Tara Samani
Donna Soltani
Mia Van Buren
Santa Barbara City College
Julia LaPlant
Brody Leipzig
Ashley Milick
Scripps College
Anne Demott
Stanford University
Mason Condello
Kaci Demaria
Olivia Kao
Allison Yu
UC Riverside
Nick Lancey
Marshall Pulley
UC Berkeley
Ahryen Ashraf
Giovanna Bearman
Anish Chowdhury
Mattias Eberhart
Ben Forte
Michael Fu
Hailey Kim
Penelope Kimberling
Jason Lee
Ryan Peters
Valerie Villegas
Akira Yoshihara
UC Irvine
Trinity McKenny
Andrew Moore
UC San Diego
Lily Bohannon
Julian Chung
Ethan Gianetto
Jake Otto
Julian Chung
Sophia Kwon
Genessis Rodriguez
UC Santa Barbara
Connor Blumenthal
Nic Buhl
Abby Cheung
Sierra Hickey
UC Santa Cruz
Tristan Cho
Lauren Colton
Nirvana Khaleeli
Ruby Mayrose Leyton Wolfe
UC Davis
Riley Hsu
Anthony Hwang
Kyle Jongewaard
Josephine Nolan
UCLA
Joey Balcom
Jaden Choi
Kate Fukushima
Mallory LaBreche
Aidan Murdock
Eric Murdock
Michelle Nikmehr
Chloe Park
Aaron Propst
Leah Sachs
University of Southern California
Rumer Atashi
Donovan Capozzola
Tyler Eng
Samuel Hodges
Holden Houterman
Jenyne Ebreo
Kate North
Christina Nuccion
Kayla Olson
Benjamin Peters
Ethan Sung
Will Zane
Where in the World is the Class of 2025?
Washington
University of Washington
Henry Argentieri
Hailey Camp
Oregon
University of Oregon
Claire Auer
Lucienne Jassy
Maddie Sherman
Oregon State University
Lanie Escobar
Idaho
Boise State University
Kami Fuchs
Maddie Marohn
Reese Tomaro
College of Idaho
Utah
Armed Forces
Air Force Academy
Luke Bowen
Chaehwan Jeong
University of British Columbia, Canada
Raquel Axtell
University of Zagrab Medical School, Croatia
Luka Nikoletic
London School of Economics and Political Science, England
Eli Bednarek
University of Exeter, England
Senna Neiman
Montana
Montana State University
Dominic Gamble
Cameron Watson
Tanner Leible University
University of Utah
Brennen Abe
Austin Ambris
Benjamin Kaplan
Nick Kouzmanoff
Emma Lucido
Madison Navarra
Lucas Nirk
Bradyn Sheldon
Ashlee Stednitz
Mason Storr
Brigham Young University
Adam Ashcroft
Megan Ashcroft
American University of Paris, France
Ryan Thurlow
Neil Yeich
Vatel Business School, Spain
Flavia Corral
IE University, Spain
Telmo Corral
Nuit Nuit University, Paris, France
Derek Larkins
Colorado
University of Colorado, Boulder
Cameron Decker
Brylee Ireland
Kate Warner
Colorado State University
Stella Simpson-Morgan
Oklahoma
Oklahoma State University
Cami Klein
Southern
Cambria Cardenas
Kyle Horner
Cole Norman
Zachary Rapoport
Rice University
Alex Toney
Texas
Texas
Cat
Cole
Audrey
Ijendu
Beau
Gavin Eades
Ava
Cameron
Lauren
Olivia
Michael
Beck
Wesley
Loyola University, Chicago
Jake DeHaro
Tufts University
Michael Kraemer
Emerson College
Nathan Stanczak
Minnesota
Carleton College
Charles Werts
Illinois
University of Chicago
Cole Foster
Audrey Kim
University, Chicago
Ijendu Agbo DeHaro
Massachusetts
Smith College
Sophie Hasegawa
Boston College
Quinn Kearns
Boston University
Ella Nenadic
Northeastern University
Kayla Baker
Maxwell Moroz
Irene Oh
Nicole Singh
Eto Uchiyama
Wisconsin
University of Wisconsin, Madison
Francesca Blue
Ava Chessmore
Patrick Lowenstein
DePaul University
Sydney Sidell
School of the Art Institute of Chicago
Hanna Kao
Ariana Valenzuela
Indiana
University of Notre Dame
Elle Campbell
Purdue University
Sean Canario
Madeline Lurie
Butler University
Charlotte Hargrove
Missouri
University of Missouri
Sofia Askinosie
Jake Hamilton
Washington University in St. Louis
Gray Rappoport
Arkansas
Christian
University
Allocco
Cote
Eades
Hassanein
Cameron Koch
McDonald
McPhee
Murillo
Wesley
Wentworth Institute of Technology
Jason Ocampo
Berklee College of Music
Jeffrey Falcone
New
Cornell University
Teagan Ballard
Gunnar Kehrli
Fordham University
Azaan Clark
Dylan Jacob
The Juilliard School
Zoe Barton
Michigan
Michigan State University
Vivi Cole
Keira Schilling
University of Michigan
Ella Gardner
Kathryn Montgomery
Megan White
Ohio
University of Indiana, Bloomington
Jay Bynum
Kristofer Duarte
Jane Girard
Mateo Mackiewicz
Ella Tillson
University of Arkansas
Henry Kiran
Louisiana
Tulane University
Natalie Andersson
Ione Eaton
Louisiana State University
Madison Gregory
Molly LaBreche
Carnegie Mellon University
Jocelyn Kim
Pennsylvania State University
Greyden Rudy
La Salle University
Halah Lebsack
University of Pennsylvania
Kallista Wang
Ohio State University
Julia Hoffman
Kentucky
University of Kentucky
Kaylin Hansen
Tennessee
University of Tennessee
Leo Amir
Kylie Eynon
Mississippi
University of Mississippi
Matthew Bates
Nolan Estrada
Emily Greenwood
Troy Walther
Sahsa Woudwijk
Auburn University
Lexi Johnson
Andrew Zane
Maryland
Johns Hopkins
University
Crystal Yang
Virginia
Vassar College
Ella Sherry
Molloy University
Reese Lynch
New York University
Ian Byrne
Salene Han
Benjamin Yang
Connecticut
Yale University
Caimin McDuffie
Wesleyan University
Cole Sipes
New Jersey
Princeton University
Isabella Juelle
Washington D.C.
Georgetown University
Caroline Chu
Avery Tydlaska
University of Virginia
Julia Westman
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Ryan Reed
South Carolina
College of Charleston
Adrian Miller
Georgia
Savannah College of Art and Design
Ava Hoynacki
University of Georgia
Madeline Herniter
Evan Lahr
Emory University
Shivi Vidjearadji
Florida
University of Central Florida
Brooke Welsh
University of Miami
Gavin Russell
Vincent Wang
*Results from The Point newspaper senior surveys, Instagram bios/posts
*State placement not to scale
The Clarity That Comes After College Decisions
By Hailey Kim opinion editor
For high school seniors across the country, college application season is often defined by pressure, uncertainty and a constant need to perform. Students spend months immersed in personal statements, supplemental essays, recommendation letters, interviews and standardized tests. Everyone’s applying everywhere, and for many, there’s an unspoken expectation to aim high, go big and have it all figured out by seventeen.
In the thick of it, it’s easy to fall into the trap of believing that prestige equals happiness, that your future is determined by how impressive your college list looks or that success means pleasing others more than yourself. The process becomes performative. You start to ask, “What do colleges want?” instead of, “What do I want?”
Suddenly, you start thinking about things that you didn’t fully consider before. How far do I want to be from home? Do I thrive in a fast-paced, urban environment or a slower, smaller one? Will I feel supported
who has to spend the next four years there. While it might sound simple, that shift in perspective is monumental. It’s a common turning point because the person you were in the fall is not always the same person you are in the spring. You grow. You learn more about yourself. You start asking different questions, the ones that actually matter.
Many students end up surprising themselves. They turn down long-held dream schools for more grounded, intentional reasons. They choose what feels right, not what sounds impressive. And more often than not, they’re happier because of it.
But here’s what no one really tells you: the most important part of the college process doesn’t happen during the chaos. It happens after. Once decisions start rolling in, something shifts. Group chats get made, Instagram bios change and the intensity begins to fade. With that comes a kind of clarity you simply can’t access when you’re still in the race.
here—not just academically, but also emotionally, culturally and socially? Financial aid, academic programs and gut feelings begin to matter more than name recognition or social validation. The school that looked “perfect” in October might not feel quite right in April. Another school, one that barely made your list, might start to feel like home. You start to realize that no amount of prestige or ranking can outweigh your own sense of belonging. The most important factor is how the school feels to you because you are the one
That’s why, if you’re still in the early stages, the best advice isn’t to chase what looks good. You should focus on what’s right for you. You may not have all the answers now, and that’s okay.
There are parts of this process you simply won’t understand until you live through them. But you don’t have to rush clarity. Pay attention to what excites you, what comforts you, and what makes you feel most like yourself.
At the end of the day, college is about who you’re becoming and choosing a place that helps you grow into that person.
(Graphic by Quinn Kearns)
Finding the Right Fit: A Guide to Getting a Great Roomie
By Claire Auer reporter
As graduation is around the corner, students are struggling to find the right roommate. This process can be stressful, but there are a few ways to make it easier and slim down the many options of people to stay with for the next year.
If a student is planning to go to college, the first step is to post on the class of 2029 Instagram for their school. This is the most common way to secure the right roommate. They can scroll through the pictures of other students and find someone who matches their vibe and has similar interests.
Reaching out can be the most difficult part. Saying the right thing and making a first impression on someone a student might spend the next year of their life with can be scary, but it doesn’t have to be.
“When I first reached out I said ‘Hey! I saw your post on the Instagram page and you look super sweet! Are you still looking for a roommate?’” said senior Ella Tillson. There are very simple things to say to reach out. Another way to make the situation less stressful is to ask a friend who is already in college or has been through the process.
When a student has found a person they click with, they should make sure to ask good questions, and share their opinions on things they find important in a roommate. Ask them questions like: Are you clean or messy? Do you stay up late or go to bed early? What time do you typically wake up?
Another way to find a roommate is to find someone in the area that is going to the same school.
“I found my roommate on Instagram and they happened to live near me, so I met up with her. It was awkward for the first two minutes, but after that we had a great conversation,” said senior Reese Tomaro
When a student is ready to take the next step with their potential roommate, they can FaceTime or meet up if they’re nearby. This will help their understanding of this person and having a real-time conversation can help finalize the big decision.
(Graphic by ClaireAuer)
(Graphic by Hailey Kim)
(Graphic by Ella Sherry)
Do Colleges Have Room for the Baby Boom?
How the 2007 Birth Spike Affected College Admissions
By Evalyn Yu reporter
With an influx of applications and limited number of seats, college acceptance rates are slimmer than ever. The class of 2025 is no exception to this trend.
This year, the number of graduating seniors in the United States is expected to reach a record high of 3.9 million, the largest class size in history. This spike is correlated with the “baby boom” of 2007, when over 4.3 million babies were born in the U.S., according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.
test-optional policies or students applying to a dizzying amount of schools.
Joanne Lewis, Director at PVHS’s College & Career Center, said, “There’s the issue of students applying to
out the perfect applicant with a shining list of activities and APs. Instead, they want to build a community of unique individuals that will thrive in the school’s environment.
As a result, seniors applying to college this year faced increased competition due to a large number of applicants vying for limited spots. For example, the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) received over 145,000 applications but only accepted 9%.
However, the 2007 birth spike is not the only reason for the large applicant pool. Other factors are at play, such as
28 schools with the perception that they’re not going to get into college. [Yet] when it comes down to it, they have no intention of attending what they have on that list as their likely schools or even some of their target schools.”
She advises students to be more intentional with the number of schools they apply to and choose ones that align with their values. Colleges are not seeking
With many factors contributing to a record-high pool of candidates, college admissions are not expected to become less competitive any time soon. The upcoming class of 2026 will likely face similar conditions.
Despite an increasingly competitive admissions landscape, it is important to remember that a college decision does not define who you are. Senior Allison Yu offers some wisdom regarding the application process.
“Regardless of the result, just know that [what] you did wasn’t a waste. All your extracurriculars teach you lessons like teamwork and dedication. They’re not just for the sake of getting into college. The effort that you put in [will] positively affect your life in the future.”
Thank you PV Decisions!
84 posts and hundreds of followers later, the PV Decisions Class of 2025 Commits page has established an online community of hundreds where senior Sea Kings can be celebrated.
Since December, the anonymous student-run Instagram account began posting seniors’ post-high school plans, including their choice of college/ university, areas of study, athletics, etc. The account has amassed a following of over 750 followers since and has posted the decisions of almost 90 seniors.
Thank you @pv2025decisions for giving our seniors a final send off!
Packing Like a Pro
By Ethan Woo social media/reporter
When entering college, most students stay in dorms, especially if they are out of state. When this is the case, it is important that students feel like they’re at home and in a comfortable environment.
One way that people can fit in with their school and feel a part of it is through their wardrobe— making sure they have the essential clothing. “It shouldn’t be that much clothing and should be pretty simple, just what is essential to bring,” CCC director Joanne Lewis said.
According to CollegeBoard. org, the recommended essentials include clothes hangers, underwear, socks, a swimsuit, sweaters, pajamas, sweats, pants or jeans and more sweaters.
Some things that that might also be useful include emergency snacks, mini whiteboards, toolkits and costume pieces for certain events.
“As a college student, it’s good to have anything that represents your school, like a sweater or a shirt. But for this generation, I would probably say pajamas are a big thing that a lot of students should have in their wardrobe,” teacher Jennifer Kim said.
While you may wear your
school sweater and pajamas, most seniors would probably recommend bringing clothes suitable for the environment your school is in.
“I would say that your wardrobe should be based on the location of your school and the college culture,” Lewis said.
If you’re going somewhere like the University of Miami, you’d probably just bring T-shirts and shorts and rarely any pants or sweaters. However, if you’re going somewhere like the University of Utah, that’s a different story when it comes to what to wear.
Some schools have something called rushing, which is when people join a sorority or fraternity. Almost any college has this, but it’s especially big if you’re going somewhere in the Midwest.
“There are different days and different styles for each day, and usually if you go on the sororities’ Instagram pages, they’ll show you a Pinterest board with different outfit ideas,” said senior Kaylin Hansen, who is going to the University of Kentucky.
What’s in your wardrobe really depends on the school you’re going to. You have to consider the weather there, maybe how rushing works, and you’ll definitely want clothes that represent your school’s mascot and colors.
Out of State: What to Do and How to Prepare
By Eason Kaewprasert photo editor
With many Sea Kings moving out of state for college, there are many ways to prepare and get ready for the new challenges ahead.
We are taking a deep dive into some of the essentials. From finding out what clothes to bring, finding good people to hang out with, and being involved with your community, this guide will help prepare you for the future.
Knowing what to expect helps you pack appropriately and prepare for your challenge ahead.
Planning ahead is an important step for out-of-state college. You should prepare your paperwork early.
This should include residency documents, insurance, housing and class registration.
This helps minimize stress upon arrival and helps organize your living spaces.
Before you even start paperwork, you should look for a college you like that is located out of state.
Out-of-state tuition is often higher, and travel expenses add up quickly. Make a realistic financial plan with savings, scholarships and financial aid.
Keep in mind that the weather, culture and cost of living all vary throughout the United States.
Once you’re there, you should have good relationships with your peers.
From reaching out to roomates to joining social media groups that welcome incoming students, you should always try to meet as many new people as you can.
Moving out of state is a big step, but with proper preparation, it can be a lifechanging experience.
Planning ahead gives you the confidence to start your new journey.
(Graphic by Eason Kaewprasert)
Cat Alloco, Claire Auer, Zoe Barton, Kelly Bojorquez, Genie Choi, Ella Gardner, Ella Hansen, Sierra Hickey, Jessica Hickman, Eason Kaewprasert, Isabelle Tholan, Evalyn Yu Staff
Web: Nicolas Boixo Fernandez De La Cigoña
Photo Editor: Eason Kaewprasert
Social Media: Ivy Ruberg, Charlie Russo, Ethan Woo
Editors & Leadership (Graphic by Evalyn Yu)
FEATURES
Palos Verdes to LA: Top Places to Visit Over Summer
By James Lew features editor
“I like going to the Melrose Flea Market because it has a large variety of clothing from all different decades (80s, 90s, 2000s, etc.). The workers at the flea market are also very kind and helpful when you’re shopping around. Not to mention, they have really good food trucks parked right outside of the event!”
Anna Pilato (11)
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“I like to visit Santa Monica because the pier has tons of entertainment and an amazing atmosphere. Overall, the beach is beautiful and is the perfect place to watch the sunset.”
- Nick Yanney (11)
“Going to a Dodgers game with some friends is one of my favorite things to do because there is a great atmosphere and its a good way to hangout with friends.”
- Justin Whitehead (11)
“I like going to the beach and biking the strand with my friends to all the different beaches, getting food and seeing the cute stores.”
- Maven Ding (11)
“Hiking around Point Vicente during the summer is fun because the weather is always great and the view is awesome.”
- Jake Rodriguez (11)
Seeing Into the Future: Sea Kings’ 10 Year Predictions
Patrick Klink - “In 10 years I hope to have a high paying job and maybe find the one.”
Kaci Demaria“In 10 years I see myself with an Olympic medal, fully settled down with a family of my own living in Manhattan Beach.”
Nirvana Khaleeli - “In 10 years I see myself still in school, most likely in medical school to become a research psychiatrist.”
Tara Samani - “I see myself having my own law firm as an entertainment lawyer.”
Cami Klein - “I see myself thriving in New York City or Los Angeles as a working actress.”
Hailey Camp - “I see myself as a physical therapist or running my own fitness company.”
Summer 2025: Blockbusters You Can’t Miss
By Jessica Hickman and Genie Choi reporters
Summer break starts off exciting, but after a while, the long days can start to feel pretty repetitive. When it’s too hot outside or there’s nothing new to do, going to the movies is a great way to mix things up.
This summer, theaters are packed with new films that have something for everyone, from action and adventure to stories full of heart.
On May 23, Disney’s new live action “Lilo and Stitch” will premiere. The original 2002 animated film holds great appeal and emotional connection with audiences due to its unique storyline and lesson about family. The remake will present the original characters in real life with CGI and live actors, and the overall story remains the same; a lonely Hawaiian girl adopts Stitch, an alien pretending to be a dog.
Jenyne Ebreo - My most interesting memory from high school was probably traveling to Costa Rica for Science Research. That whole trip was a fever dream, 10/10 would recommend.
Kaylin Hansen - I will really miss football games, especially being able to capture the atmosphere of the Red Tide crowds and being able to share it on social media (through ASB) and in the yearbook.
Kayla Baker - The most interesting memory I had in high school is when I picked a pass in flag football at a night game.
Jack Fugatti Stumfall - Doing a story with Patrick Klink for Live From 205 and using toilet brushes for microphones.
Heath Johnson- My best memory of high school is breaking 5 in the mile for the first time at a track meet.
Ash Rodriguez- My favorite memory is the boat races where I sank immediately and lost a sock in the process.
Leah Sachs - Our first Friday Night Lights game my sophomore year, cheering on the track that night was electric!
Another blockbuster coming out this summer is “Jurassic World Rebirth.” Since 1993, the “Jurassic Park” franchise has always held a special place in the hearts of its fans. On July 2, 2025 this movie will release and feature Scarlett Johansson and Johnathan Bailey. In the movie, they travel back to the original Jurassic Park to save genetic material but then they find out something that was hidden for decades.
“How to Train Your Dragon” is another movie that should be on your watchlist this summer. Unlike the original it is going to be live action and using a combination of CGI and live action elements. This classic movie is going to retain its original 2010 version as the director Dean DeBlois says that the script has been “barely changed.” As this may be a relief to many, it also includes many of the iconic scenes from its cartoon predecessor.
Disney’s past live-action remakes have gotten mixed reactions, but this new movie could showcase a new version of the movie that brings the original story back to life.
Lastly, July 11, 2025 marks the release of “Superman.” How this movie differs from the other five superman movies is that it focuses more on Superman’s connection to earth and his human side trying to display a younger optimistic version of Superman in contrast to the previously grim portrayals by Henry Cavill’s portrayal.
(Graphic by Jessica Hickman and Genie Choi)
Together or Apart, Twins Take Off to College
By Ivy Ruberg and Izzy Tholan reporters
“I always wanted to stay close to him, but it wasn’t a huge assigning factor. He applied to some places out of California so I wouldn’t say staying close to each other was really a priority. It was just just going where we wanted to go. But of course, I would have loved to go to school with him.”
- Ryan Peters (12)
“It’s hard meeting people for like the first few weeks. So if you want to...join a club, you’re always going [have] someone that is willing to do that with you. And if you end up in the same club, you can kind of build off each other and introduce people that you’ve met, people they’ve met, and it’s just like a best friend.”
- Aidan Murdock (12)
“I definitely didn’t want to go to the same school as her, so we can branch out not just as twins but as people.”
- Natalie Andersson (12)
“Because I’ve spent my whole life with them. So I just being able to go to college next to him would be a privilege and like, we just wanted to stay together ‘cause we’re super close.”
“I’m gonna miss the most just having my best friend around me, 24/ 7. It’s gonna be a big change because we’re so close, but it’ll be cool to kind of see where he’s at and where I’m at and hopefully in the future we can come together.”
- Will Zane (12)
The Point Senior Send Off 2025
Illustrations by Claire Auer, Quinn Kearns, and Ruby Mayrose
Cat Allocco
Sierra Hickey
Ruby Mayrose
Claire Auer
Olivia Kao
Aaron Propst
Zoe Barton
Quinn Kearns
Ella Sherry
Ella Gardner
Hailey Kim
Val Villegas
- Flavia Corral (12)