May June 2018 Steinmetz Star

Steinmetz Star Volume 83, Number 5, May - June 2018 www.steinmetzstar.com

Congratulations, Class of 2018

Salutatorian Miguel Viruet , #2

Photo by Millie Martinez

Photo by Frank Cabrera

Valedictorian Liana Perez, #1

By Erika Carrasco

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s the Class of 2018 valedictorian, Liana sets an excellent example with a 5.4 grade point average (GPA) she maintained while being devoted to many activities.

She played sports, tutored children after school, volunteered at her church, served as vice president of the National Honor Society and worked hard in the International Baccalaureate (IB) program.

“I didn’t think I’d be Number 1 because there are just so many othContinued on Page 5

Photo by Steven Nunez

By Elise Guillen

Class of 2018 top ranked graduates include Vincent Fernandez, Liana Perez, Yahaira Villatoro, Cari Russel, Ana Avila, Axel Mota, (middle row) Steffin Kurian, Eryk P, Monica Laddaran, Weronika Rybarska, Tiyun Harvey, Emily Salgado, (back row) Hans Sabado, Miguel Viruet, Hernry Munoz, Jorge Garcia, Marcos Estrada, Elise Guillen, Genesis Munoz. Top 20 graduates not pictured: Michelle Hernandez and Yahaira Rangel.

Seniors celebrate Decision Day

iguel Viruet is a hardworking, dedicated, inspiring student.

He will be attending Dominican University, receiving their Presidential Scholarship, after graduating second in the class with a 5.3 GPA. He will study architectural engineering.

“I want to go into the field because I’m interested in design and building, and it will make a difference because there’s few people with that skill set,” Miguel said.

Continued on Page 5

Principal Stephen Ngo is moving on

By Star staff

Senior officers Katera Goldman, Marychu Vargas and Steven Nunez led the May 4 Decision Day assembly, which celebrated athletes, scholars and those enlisting in the military (see Page 4).

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Photo by Vinnie Rivera

News: 2-13, 16-21

Forensics Fair and Probability Fair, p. 4

Ashanti Davis, Jahira Damien, Yuridia Galaviz and Chiya Loyd were honored for receiving full-ride scholarships to Northern Illinois University. Jamara McGarry performed her poem “Destinies.” See p. 13.

Mr. Ngo (at the Military Ball) served for six years as principal of Steinmetz.

the qualitative evidence to back that up, too. Steinmetz graduates that I know personally have attained success in every facet of professional life — education, medicine, business, etc. The staff at Steinmetz instilled the educational foundations for these successes.”

As he did with World Language, Mr. Ngo pushed Steinmetz off of CPS “probation.”

Continued on Page 2

In this issue Opinion: 2-3

Final editorial by 2018 Star co-editors-in-chief

Prom: 14-15

Arts & Entertainment Shout Outs: 22- 25

Photo by Edwin Claveria

ecision Day included a red carpet entry, a fingerprint banner at a DJed lunch and a school-wide assembly celebrating college enrollment and military enlissment, led by the senior class officers. Students received raffle prizes and t-shirts. Jaquila White won the locker decoration contest.

“We also took pictures in our college shirts,” Pierra Burton said. “Everything about that day was fun.”

Photo by Steven Nunez

Photos by Kathryn Rosas

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fter six years as principal, Stephen Ngo is moving on. He announced his resignation at a special meeting of the Local School Council in May. His last day at Steinmetz will be June 30.

Mr. Ngo began at Steinmetz in 1997, teaching social studies for 10 years. From 2006 to 2010 he served as an assistant principal. He then left to become the principal of World Language High School, returning after three years to become Steinmetz’s principal.

He’s leaving with best wishes and admiration for the staff and students.

“Steinmetz students are some of the greatest students on earth,” Mr. Ngo wrote in an email to a Star reporter. “I have

Star poetry contest winners, p. 22

Sports: 26-28 Softball, volleyball, track, baseball, soccer and water polo

Kevon Proctor signs to play football at Concordia

Star News Editors pass leadership of the Star to the Class of 2019 journalists 2

Steinmetz Star Steinmetz College Prep High School Principal Stephen J. Ngo 3030 N. Mobile, Chicago IL 60634 773-534-3030, Star office (x) 25241 Website: www.steinmetzstar.com Email: steinmetzstarnews@gmail.com Twitter, Instagram, Facebook: @steinmetzstar

The Steinmetz Star is the student print and online newspaper of Steinmetz College Prep High School. Our goal is to inform the Steinmetz community of news affecting the students of our school. The opinions expressed in our articles are not necessarily those shared by the Star reporters and editors or the Steinmetz faculty and administration.

By Sharon Schmidt, Star faculty adviser

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big thank you goes out to this talented group of reporters, editors and photographers, especially to Agape, who gave Steinmetz four years of consistent reporting and good writing.

While you’re Louder Than a Bomb on stage, Agape, you’re quietly accurate, but equally vivid and real in the pages of the Star.

You told true stories that highlighted the value of others, reporting their words, opinions and actions.

I’ve appreciated your good work ever since you came in with a great piece in the fall of your freshman year.

Elise, Steven, Kyiah, Alina, Daria and Jamara have also done exceptional work on the paper for many years, receiving prestigious McCormick Media Awards for their individual work. Steven was rightly named

Chicago’s Student Journalist of the Year.

They all contributed so much to the Star’s overall success, as we’ve been repeatedly named a superior student paper in Chicago. The walls of 333 are papered with certificates, thanks to these top journalists, who have covered the people of Steinmetz in a service to their community. My only consolation on their graduation is knowing who comes next.

Erika and Tamara to take over The Class of 2019 Star staff will be led by coeditors-in-chief Erika Carrasco and Tamara Johnson.

Additional rising senior leaders include excellent journalists Lara Banez, Frank Cabrera, Luis Huerta, Valeriia Lytvak, Millie Martinez, Jay Ann Perez and Abdulkabir Yahya, with more to come.

It’s going to be fun.

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LSC to select Steinmetz’s next principal Continued from Page 1

Photo by Millie Martinez

Mr. Ngo oversaw two major additions to the Steinmetz campus: the health clinic and the new fields and track, currently in progress.

He emphasized post-secondary education by creating the Robert Morris University partnership, dedicating two counselors to seniors, establishing senior seminar classes Graduating senior Crystal Roman served as student representative for two and promoting OneGoal. years on the Local School Council. Frank Cabrera was elected LSC rep for the Mr. Ngo strived to gain 2018-19 year. Students attend monthly meetings, but don’t vote on principal community and parent partselection. LSC parent, community and staff members will choose the principal. nerships, overseeing the opening of the Parent Resource Room by hosting Japanese students at Many students appreciated his and CPS Parent University.

Steinmetz and bringing Japanese concern for their well-being.

In 2016, he enabled more than and Arabic to the World Language “Mr. Ngo asked me how I was 20 students to travel and stay in department. doing every time I saw him,” juJapan for free through his connecMr. Ngo told the LSC that he nior Tamara Johnson said. “He tions with the Japan Foundation. is resigning to try new things in really cared about me and all the He provided additional cross education, possibly returning to students at Steinmetz. I will miss cultural experiences to students Japan, where he taught previously. him.”

Anyone in the Steinmetz community is welcome to send letters, corrections, comments, and articles for publication.

Star content decisions are made by student editors and reporters, under the advisement of the faculty sponsor. The Illinois Speech Rights of Student Journalists Act, signed into law on July 29, 2016, affirms students’ right to exercise freedom of speech and of the press in school-sponsored media. ((105 ILCS 80/15) Class of 2018 editing staff: Agape Alfaro, Elise Guillen, Jamara McGarry, Kiyah Morris, Steven Nunez, Alina Qureshy, Daria Velazquez 8th period journalism class reporters: Karla Aguilar, Kassandra Cano, Alma Carmona, Jaqueline Desantiago, Stephany Casillas, Rosalinda Diaz, Alyanna Fontanilla, Jennifer Gamboa, Katherinne Garcia, Katera Goldman, Emily Gonzales, Victor Hernandez, Maritza Hernandez, Luz Herrera, Tamara Johnson, Chiya Loyd, Monica Marroquin, Oscar Martinez, Yanarie Martinez, Alma Nunez, Melanie Ordaz, Alondra Ortiz, Eli Patino, Joel Perdoma, Jose Plaza, Stephanie Pravinchandra, Eliseo Reyes, Vinnie Rivera, Kathryn Rosas, Jasmin Vides, Aja Williams Newspaper Club reporters: Lara Banez, Frank Cabrera, Ezra Chavez, Jesus Cortez, Freddy Crittendon, Danielle Dunlea, Daniel Hassan, Brandon Hernandez, Tom Feazelle, Tyrek Gates, Emelie Gonzalez, Luis Huerta, Yadira Lopez, Valeriia Lytvak, Millie Martinez, Jay Ann Perez, Alyssa Smith, Angelina Villarreal, Abdulkabir Yahya The Newspaper Club will meet during July and August periodically for planning. If you want to be involved, send an email to Erika Carrasco at ecarrasco5@cps.edu.

Faculty adviser: Ms. Sharon Schmidt Membership: Scholastic Press Association of Chicago Printing: The Star is printed at Topweb LLC, 5450 N. Northwest Highway, Chicago.

Back Issues: More than 50 back issues of the Star are available on the Steinmetz school website at www.steinmetzcp.org. Go to the “Newspaper” link. Additional content is published at www. steinmetzstar.com.

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• Star Editorial Steinmetz deserves better organization and extra curricular involvement

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any who care about Steinmetz have noticed with each passing year that Steinmetz is slowly decreasing in value. This editorial is not meant to bash Steinmetz, but rather criticize the school in order to improve it. We love Steinmetz and have a deep concern for it.

It’s also worth noting that there is no specific group to point out and to blame why Steinmetz is going in a bad direction. It is rather a combination of people, thus proving there needs to be a group effort from students, teachers, staff and CPS to make sure Steinmetz has the future it deserves.

Lack of organization. When planning events, there is disorganization due to the lack of communication. For example, this year the seniors had no idea when graduation

2 Steinmetz Star May - June 2018

practice would happen or when they would receive things such as caps and gowns or even graduation tickets because no one was telling them anything. Also, when there are events happening at the school, students rarely hear about them until they happen.

Lack of involvement from staff and students. There are only certain staff and students who are constantly involved at Steinmetz and it’s very easy to pick them out.

The Star encourages more students and staff to get involved at Steinmetz to allow other people to see the great things Steinmetz offers and to get even more people to be excited and involved in the school. There’s so much to do besides academics. Since there’s not enough student involvement and even lack of teacher involvement, this leads to the next point.

Extra curriculars diminishing. Lately, since people are not getting involved as much, clubs are dying. There are barely any extracurriculars besides sports. There used to be drama club and a school play every year until this year. Four years ago the school was alive and buzzing with various activities to do after school, but now everyone just rushes out of the building and many clubs and sports are told to leave by a certain time while other schools are open late for students.

Funding to improve Steinmetz- There’s a difficulty getting funding from the school in order to get materials for club since administration doesn’t allow things like fundraisers, which could really improve and benefit Steinmetz. Even sports struggle because of lack of money for buses.

Uniforms. The Star has covered the uniform issue plenty of times and every time that we do, we always come back to the same consensus: Get rid of it.

The uniform is inconsistent and it’s ridiculous that the school has it. The way that the school enforces it is confusing considering it can only being enforced part of the time instead of all the time. One person could get called out for wearing jeans, but then the five people who are also not in uniform don’t get in trouble.

Then, the school makes a big deal of being out of uniform like it’s the worst thing ever. It isn’t. There are other student behavior problems that should be focused on, but get less attention since people are focused on the uniforms.

Photo by Steven Nunez

Photo by Steven Nunez

3 Star Photo Opinion How did you beat senioritis and Recycling club members get straight A’s?

What are your favorite memories of Steinmetz?

“I turned in all my work and made sure I stayed focused.

I don’t get distracted. I’m humble, I stay to myself and don’t focus on anybody else.

It means a lot to me to make straight A’s. Freshman year I failed most of my classes and then sophomore year I got A’s and B’s and now I’m taking things seriously.”

Pierra Burton

“I just really want to make my mom proud because I’m a senior, so time is running out for me. I got straight As by staying focused and knowing that the school life and my social life are separate.”

A’shanti Davis

“I’m motivated to become a better person. I’m ambitious and want to succeed higher than everyone around me.

In my free time, I like to hang out with my family and my birds. I like to listen to music with them and dance around.”

Michelle Villanueva

“One of my favorite memories from is junior year, Mr. Cave’s class because I met my two best friends.Natalia Holguin and Brandon Arriaga.I actually met Brandon my sophomore year, but this year is important because we are the ultimate buddy trio and it formed in this one class.

We talked about chicken nuggets while taking tests.”

Joshua Hampton

“Recycling club has a positive environment and we treat each other really well.

We also have cookies for the end of the day when we finish everything we need to do.”

Adrian Paz “Biology class with Mr. Mcnulty; he always helped us with our work and being friends with best friend Christian Rosales.”

Saul Sanchez

“My favorite class was gym freshman year. That’s the class where I met my friends who became family until the end of senior year.

The best memory from that class the struggle we had scoring the basketball.

Thanks for giving me the best high school experience Noe, Ezequiel, Jovany, Braden, Adrian, Saul, Jose, Joshua and David.”

Brayan Hernandez

More straight A interviews and recycling club member memories on the Steinmetz Star website: www.steinmetzstar.com.

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Steinmetz Star News Louder Than A Bomb founder Kevin Coval to speak at graduation

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evin Coval, the director of Young Chicago Authors, poet and community-builder, has been a friend to Steinmetz for many years.

As one of the founders of Louder Than A Bomb, the largest youth poetry festival in the world, he’s inspired thousands of Chicago students to express themselves.

“Kevin made me understand what it is to be a poet, what it is to be an artist, and what it is to serve the people,” Chance the Rapper writes in his inPoetry slam team members Sammie Chafai, Alina Qureshy, Jamara Alejandro Hernandez, a Class of 2016 Star editor, hosted troduction to Kevin’s book “A People’s McGarry and Agape Alfaro pose with friends and coaches Jon Hood Kevin Coval on his DePaul University radio show after Kevin Steven Nunez, 2018 senior class president, and James Sloan after their LTAB bout on March 2. published “A People’s History of Chicago” in 2017.

History of Chicago.” invited Kevin Coval to speak at graduation.

The connection Mr. Coval made with teacher James Sloan and Steinmetz is evident in the 2010 award-winning film “Louder Than A Bomb.” His encouragement of Steinmetz students has created a legacy of self-confidence and truth-telling, along with much joy in creating and sharing poetry. The Class of 2018 is honored to have Mr. Coval come to Steinmetz to address the graduates.

Star Editorial

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Students need freedom of expression, improved discipline, decent bathrooms It also gives the community something to think about. Why did the other high schools in the area drop the uniform? Why is Steinmetz the only one left with it? Many think that the uniform gives the school a bad look because it’s associated with controlling bad students.

Having the uniform, despite many students being against it, shows that the students aren’t being listened to and they’re the ones being forced to wear it. When in reality, it’s limiting students’ creative expression and causing more problems than fixing them.

We understand the reasons for uniforms, but they do nothing for student safety. We highly suggest requiring students to always wear their IDs as an alternative to identify Steinmetz students.

The high standards of rules yet the lack of enforcement of them. As stated before with uniform, there is a lack of proper discipline. One day staff with be on your case with being in proper uniform and the next day everyone will turn a blind eye. Sometimes detentions will be handed out, but very few actually attend. And when people do show up to detention, it’s relaxed. People are talking or on their phone and will be able to leave after thirty minutes. Another issue is how teachers are told to write up students who misbehave, yet then they receive no discipline. At most, they receive a call home but that isn’t even proper discipline.

The quality of the bathrooms. This is not a bashing on how they are being cleaned.

The cleaning crew has improved and works

really hard. But the lack of fixing the overall bathrooms over the course of several years is deeply concerning. The murals outside the bathrooms make a student believe the bathrooms are just as nice inside but that’s not the case. Most of the bathrooms have damaged mirrors and some even have none. This is something students always complain about, but nothing has been done to fix the problem.

As for the graffiti and quality of the stalls, there is not much to do about that. Except to possibly open the school up during the summer and let anyone from the community or even students help paint over the graffiti before the start of every school year.

The topics discussed have not only contributed to the population of Steinmetz decreasing, but have also made Steinmetz students

less enthusiastic about school and not proud of where they attend.

There are other serious problems that are now beyond administration, students and staff’s hands, such as the lay-offs of our librarian Ms. Eshoo and amazing teachers Mr. Foster, Mr. Gonzalez and Ms. Meunier, as well as new schools being built nearby which will further decrease our enrollment and funding.

But there are many things that everyone at this school can work on. It truly starts with the people who attend or work at Steinmetz to create change and to make others aware of what Steinmetz is capable of.

If you’re reading this and you’re like us and care and worry about the future of Steinmetz, reevaluate what you could personally do to help give Steinmetz the future it deserves.

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May - June 2018 Steinmetz Star 3

Star News

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NHS inducts new members

Photo by Frank Cabrera

Cadets march in Memorial Day Parade

Some of the senior NHS members.

By Angelina Villarreal

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JROTC photos

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he sudent JROTC leaders for 2018-19: Battalion Commander: C/LTC Kevin Rodriguez Battalion Executive Officer: C/MAJ Sherley Dela Cruz

Battalion Command Sergeant Major: C/CSM Santiago Raino Vera S1: C/CPT Jennifer Pillajo S3: C/CPT Yencelyn Bucio S5: C/CPT Miriam Bautista

Seniors join the Marines

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ulissa Tello, Martin Sanders, Brian Malina and Jairo Bravo enlisted in the Marines. Jairo said he will go to boot camp for 13 weeks this summer, then go to the school of infantry in North Carollina.

Jairo said he chose the Marines because it is the “most intense and challenging” branch of the service.

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he National Honor Society inducted new members on June 2.

“More than just an honor roll, NHS serves to recognize those students who have demonstrated excellence in the areas of scholarship, service, leadership, and character,” states the ‘About Us’ page on the NHS website.

The new members are: • Seniors Patricia Abrigunda, Ana Avila, Carmen Bautista, Diana Carpio, Katie Marin, Henry Munoz, Angela Perez, Alina Qureshy, Odaliz Renteria and Aja Williams • Juniors Lara Banez, Keyla Garcia, Samuel Oden, Jay Ann Perez, Enrique Robles, Kevin Rodriguez, Gilberto Torres and Abdulkabir Yahya • Sophomores Dayna Dayson, Sherley De La Cruz, Eduardo Delgado, Katarina Fleischer, Monserrat Garfias, Paola Gomez, Thais Ocana, Jennifer Pillajo, Daphne Texis, Josue Valdivia and Angelina Villarreal.

Teacher Elizabeth Perez sponsors the Steinmetz NHS and selects the members.

Four seniors and junior Erika Carrasco, secretary, are NHS officers and helped run the program: Weronika Rybarska, president; Liana Perez, vice-president; Elise Guillen, service; Katera Goldman, service.

The ceremony began with inductees carrying lit candles down the walkway.

Inductees were seated and the NHS officers gave speeches about what the program was all about. It was there that growing both intellectually and as a person was emphasized and would be emphasized when in NHS.

Inductees were called up to the stage where Ms. Perez gave a brief description of each new member and his or her outstanding accomplishments as a student at Steinmetz.

Mr. Ngo handed the new members their certificates and congratulations on being an official member of NHS. Afterwards, parents were free to take photos with or of their students and refreshments were served in the lunchroom.

It was an evening full of many greatly accomplished students who were being recognized for their outstanding achievements.

Congratulations to all newly inducted members of NHS! The new members join the other admirable students who were inducted in 2017 and 2016 in NHS: • Seniors Agape Alfaro, Amy Carmona, Lesly Correa, A’Shanti Davis, Vincent Fernandez, Jorge Garcia, Katera Goldman, Emily Gonzales, Emelie Gonzalez, Elise Guillen, Tiyun Harvey, Michelle Hernandez, Ihmud Ihmud, Steffin Kurian, Monica Laddaran, Emily Martinez, Kyiah Morris, Axel Mota, Montserrat Pereyra, Leticia Perez, Liana Perez, Yahaira Rangel, Briana Raper, Jazmin Resendiz, Cari Russell, Weronika Rybarska, Julissa Tello, Lovely Teodoro, Dominique Thomas, Marychu Vargas, Daria Velazquez, Dylan Villanueva, Michelle Villanueva, Yahaira Villatoro and Tatiana Ward • Juniors Frank Cabrera, Erika Carrasco, Carlos Diaz, Jayla Glanton, Shaquita Holder, Luis Huerta, Valeriia Lytvak, Millie Martinez, Selena Martinez, Ruby Ocampo, Diana Paramo, Hope Pierce, Cyan Torrent and Charlie Valdez.

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Math unit culminates in ‘Probability Faire’

Senior wins chess tournament

By Suzy Sullivan, teacher

By James Saunders, teacher

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Forensics fair Photos by Alyanna Fontanilla

eventy-five juniors and seniors in IB math and pre-calculus participated in the first annual Probability Faire on June 5 The math students created games of chance as part of their unit on probability in the world. Their goal was to create games where they could calculate the likelihood of winning and that would attract students to play.

Other students came to the fair and received 10 tickets to play games. If they won, they got their ticket back. The makers of the game tracked how many tickets they had at the end of the game to evaluate both the success of getting students to play and the potential profitability of the game.

The fair was a big success. We hope to grow it next year.

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Mr. Bagdonas’s students displayed crime solving information in their Forensics Fair.

school-wide chess tournament was held on May 24. The students really enjoyed the inherent pressure of competing in a tournament.

There were eight contestants and after three elimination rounds a champion emerged. Parent volunteer Luis Coss assisted and did an amazing job.

Many students were very thoughtful as they contemplated their next chess move. The practice of thinking before making a move goes far beyond chess, so it is presumable that many of these students lives will be enriched by playing chess.

The last match, between Ivan Navarrete and Edandre Macahidhid was hard fought. It was truly interesting to see their unique strategies as everyone looked on.

In the end, Ivan was victorious.

I really appreciate everyone who came out and look forward to an even bigger turn out next year.

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Ivan Navarrete wins the tournament,

Mr. Coss assisted Mr. Saunders with the tournament.

Star Top 10

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Miguel Viruet

Liana Perez

Continued from Page 1

When asked what advice she would like to give to Steinmetz students, Liana thought for a second, knowing the weight of her words with the authority that she has, then said: “Find one true friend in high school.”

Liana found many true friends in sports and in class.

“Friends helped a lot and they really become a support system,” she said, her biggest support being best friend Weronika Rybarska.

Liana also advises others to do the best they can in school and to not stress too much because it’s important to have fun in school.

“It’ll be much better than you expect,” she

said. Lastly, she shared for students to not underestimate themselves, perfect advice from someone who didn’t believe she’d be ranked Number 1.

Liana said she is thankful for the challenges of the IB program. In spite of the stress and long and tired nights, she came out better from it all.

She said she will miss high school because it helped her grow into the individual that she is. Based on her accomplishments and character, Liana has every right to say, “I’m really proud of myself.”

Weronika Rybarska

By Frank Cabrera

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eronika is an amazing person.

She is a hard worker, dedicated to her academics, with a genuine, positive, social personality.

She is graduating with a high GPA, Number Three in the senior class.

She participated in volleyball, swimming, and softball. She was the president of the National Honor Society, a DEY tutor, finalist in a Chicago Art Institute program and worked at a grocery store on the weekends.

Although Weronika is dedicated to her academics and activities, she is just as much a social and outgoing person.

She came into Steinmetz with a heavy Polish accent after arriving from Poland the year before halfway through 8th grade and was still able to make friends, such as Liana Perez.

Liana and Weronika were friends from the first day of school their freshman year. They can retell the story of each sitting alone during 3rd period in gym class when Weronika went up to Liana to talk to her and that’s when their friendship began. After having lots of classes in together in the Middle Years Program (MYP) to having every class in the International Baccalaureate (IB) courses, they’re a huge part of each other lives now.

Throughout all of her high school career Weronika has been seen as a very happy and social person, but not everyone knows that she describes herself as “realistic.”

Weronika says that she’s always been the person who looks at things objectively and believes it’s better to stay on the ground to keep pushing forward for her goals.

Weronika has kept this mentality throughout her struggle in her junior year when her mom was diagnosed with breast cancer. She says that her mom is her role model because she was always strong for her an proved that even at dark times you have to keep going and try harder for the future. Because of her mom being such a role model to her Weronika has a matching tattoo of the pink ribbon with her older sister and mom for crushing Breast Cancer.

Weronika will be attending Illinois State University, home of the Red Birds, with a full ride scholarship, majoring in business management. She will be living

on campus in the dorms, and says that she’s going to miss her family, her little sister the most.

Teachers like Nancyanne Ferrarini know that Weronika has been able to mature and grow into an adult at Steinmetz.

“She knows how to maximize her strengths and really meets any challenge she faces,” Ms. Ferrarini said.

Weronika has a “real drive” because she is always participating, optimistic and is able to be herself without fearing any criticism, she added. Ms. Ferrarini has no doubt that Weronika will do excellent in college and in the career she chooses.

The Star interviewed Weronika.

Photo by Frank Cabrera How do you describe yourself?

Social and balanced – I’ll talk to anyone, even if I don’t know them. I am able to stay on top of everything.

What’s your favorite food?

Tacos, I can eat tacos anytime of the day.

What’s one thing you’ll always remember from Steinmetz?

My memories with Liana, meeting her freshman year, and Ms. Ferrarini, basically my second mom.

Who is your role model?

My mom has had a huge impact on how I view things and has been a huge motivation because she was always strong even when she was hurting and she sacrificed so much for her family.

If you could meet anyone in the world who would you meet and why?

Emma Stone, because every movie she is in it’s amazing, especially with Ryan Gosling. She’s so funny, pretty and her outfits are poppin’.

A question for Emma Stone?

Why isn’t she dating Ryan Gosling?

Pride shows in an ISU shirt

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and pink ribbon tattoo.

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Miguel was in the Middle Years/International Baccalaureate program all four years at Steinmetz. Faviola Delgado said that Miguel “inspired everybody in IB.” “Miguel is a hard worker and is very dedicated to school,” senior Marychu Vargas said. “He has the best work ethic I’ve ever seen. He also never fails to help those in need.”

Miguel is very proud and feels accomplished that he received almost straight A’s all of his four years in IB. He said he is going to miss the teachers, especially art teacher Rosana Mark.

Miguel said she “teaches in and outside of school” and he loves the way she handles her students.

Ms. Mark said Miguel consistently carries himself with dignity and sophistication.

“Miguel is one of the most intellectually mature students I ever encountered,” she said. “His determination and dedication towards his academic and creative work is commemorable.”

His parents and sister motivated him to do so well in school. He said his sister attended Lane Tech High School, and he wanted to do as well as she did.

The Star asked Miguel to describe himself in three words.

“Humble, flamboyant, and mysterious.

I think they describe me because they show all aspects of my personality when I’m at school and also at home with my family,” he said. “Mysterious is for people who don’t know me fully.”

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Monica Laddaran

Monica plans to attend Dominican University in the fall, having received utstanding several scholarships. student One day she would Monica like to work as a Laddaran ranks film editor or web Number Four in designer. the Class of 2018.

“I have been “Monica is a Monica’s Japanese very hard worker, teacher for two well balanced and years,” Michelle very smart,” her Cross said. “Not classmate Marychu only was she my Vargas said. top student (whom She academic I selected to go to work in the Middle the Japanese deYears and Internacathlon), but she tional Baccalaureate has become my program was excelkindred spirit. Her Photo by Millie Martinez lent, keeping her kindness, patience in the Top Ten of the and vitality make you class for all four years, realize quickly that she is a very speMonica also participated in cial person. I hope to stay in contact many activities. She played volley- with her and see how she blesses the ball four years, was a member of the world with her talents. She is an National Honors Society for two unforgettable student.” and wrote stories for the Steinmetz Star in her freshmen year. She modeled in a fashion show and competed in the Japanese Decathlon.

Monica said her favorite memory was the fashion show organized by staff member and coach Karena Childs, in 2017.

“I have had the pleasure of working with Monica in numerous extracurricular activities,” Ms. Childs said. “She is by far one of the most ambitious, dedicated, hard working and pleasant young women I’ve ever encountered. I have no doubt in my mind all the amazing things she will conquer throughout her life. She’s an amazing young woman, with Monica modeled several outa beautiful soul and a force to be fits in the 2017 fashion show sponsored by Ms. Childs. reckoned with.”

By Kassandra Cano

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Photo by Steven Nunez

Continued from Page 1 ers who also work hard,” Liana said.

She established a strong work ethic throughout her life to achieve her goals. Going to college was Liana’s main goal throughout high school so she could make her family proud, since not all of her family members finished their educations. Liana’s mother, who did go to college, also taught her the importance of an education.

Liana will be attending University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC). She is undecided about a major.

“I’m excited to figure it all out,” she said, proving that people can be ambitious without having their whole lives planned out.

“I don’t feel that pressure of having to know exactly what I’ll do when I graduate; I can figure it out in college,” she said.

Liana would like to help people and thinks she may end up doing something in the medical field. She loves interacting with people and wants to help as much as she can to make a difference in the world.

She is known as a very kind and helpful person.

Liana showed this by tutoring students after school, which ended up being a paying job. Liana said she really enjoyed tutoring and would like to keep the job while in college.

She built relationships with her fellow tutors and the students she tutored. She loved helping them with things like math, but also with giving them advice.

Photo by Steven Nunez

Top graduates headed to further academic success

May - June 2018 Steinmetz Star 5

Star Top 10 Eryk Przybyszewski

By Kyiah Morris

By Eryk Przybyszewski

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Photo by Erika Carrasco

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ari Russell is an intelligent young lady with a bright future ahead of her. Throughout her high school career, she maintain her grades to be A’s and B’s and she describes herself as a good scholar. By maintaining her grades, she does her work early and keeps herself paced and not waiting until the last minute to do assignments.

With her social life and managing school, it becomes difficult for her but she makes it happen.

She goes out with friends once she has finished her homework and even does it at school so she doesn’t have to worry about it when she’s out with friends.

Cari’s favorite part about high school is the people and she has met many people that have made her laugh and have made long time friendships.

Her most memorable moment is freshmen year when she did the IB dance performance. She just enjoyed it and states, “It was fun and the assignment wasn’t like school work. My partners and I enjoyed it.” For her sophomore

year, she says, “As a whole, many activities took place that are unforgettable and new friendships were made.”

Her favorite teachers are Mrs. Ferrarini and Mrs. Perez because they both have motivated her to achieve her goals and were always loving and caring teachers that wanted her to do her best and she will miss them dearly.

Cari seems to have a bright future because she will attending Illinois State University majoring in Business Management.

She says,”I felt very comfortable on the campus and it’s not too far away from home. I’m going to miss my family a lot because we’re very close so being away for a long time will be something new I would have to adjust to.”

Vincent Fernandez

By Agape Alfaro

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incent started out as a shy student who has grown into a smart, athletic, versatile individual. He was able to raise his class rank to Number 8. He aimed for a high rank ever since he moved here during his sophomore year from the Philippines.

“Not only was I shy, I also stuttered a lot,” he said, looking back at his beginnings at Steinmetz. “I had just moved so it felt like family displacement, especially since I’m an immigrant.”

Vincent was quick to adapt and his determination helped him to overcome that challenge. “I wanted to prove to myself that I could live in America,” he said.

When it came to schoolwork, Vincent had difficulties in the beginning since he had gotten his appendix removed. Due to his surgery, it was hard for him to get back into school. He recalled having a C in his history class and wasn’t too happy about it.

Overtime, he grew accustomed to the point where he didn’t have to spend much time on homework, which led to his participation in extracurricular activities.

Vincent participated in swimming, volleyball, choir, Academic Decathlon, tutoring and National Honor Society. During the summers he worked at Dunkin Donuts and Five Below.

Vincent recommends that all students participate in extra curricular activities.

During the three years that Vincent attended Steinmetz, he dedicated his time to the International Baccalaureate (IB) program.

He showed a strong commitment towards IB since it gives students a mindset of working hard, the pressure prepares students for college and teachers care about students even though they can come off as strict.

“There’s this atmosphere of working hard, you actually care about school and it keeps you on track,” he said.

Two IB teachers who inspired him were Ms. Ochwat, who Vincent said was “strict but pushed you towards excellence,” and Ms. Ferrarini, whose class inspired him to think more.

“I’ll miss volleyball, even though I couldn’t play this year,” he said. “I’ll miss annoying Ms. Doyle and Ms.

6 Steinmetz Star May - June 2018

•

eople often ask me, “Was it worth it?” to be in the Middle Years/International Baccalaureate (MYP/IB) program for four years.

As a student that has experienced nothing but the core classes for the program, the program contained some positives and negatives.

The program contained many great teachers that each had a different way of teaching a student: some through repetition of hard class work and some through lectures that lasted the whole class.

My favorite classes by far were math, sophomore year, with Mr. Amdouni because of how well he taught us the importance of the program, and Japanese, junior and senior year with Ms. Cross. She managed to teach us two alphabets from the japanese language within a year and then another year helping us use those symbols in order to form sentences and communicate with other Japanese people.

I’ve always liked to play sports just for fun. I joined the JV soccer team as a freshman and played in it until sophomore year. I also played on the JV volleyball team my sophomore year because I absolutely loved

Ferrarini, along with Ms. Ochwat screaming at us. I’ll miss winning Kahoot in Ms. Perez’s class and eating the brownies she makes.

I’ll miss the IB gang, especially Jorge, Marek, Jonathan, Adrian and Liana, of course.”

Vincent will be spending the next four years attending University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC). He plans on pursuing engineering. In the future, he would like to move out and become independent. Additionally, Vincent would like to travel the world bePhoto by Frank Cabrera fore he settles down.

The Star asked some questions.

What is your advice for the underclassmen?

Join as many activities as you can so you don’t regret it. It’s the way to meet new people. IB is the move, so join it; it’s very worth it. Four years go by quickly so learn a new instrument and try a new sport. Be nice to teachers because they can be very helpful. Be confident in yourself.

How should students spend their free time?

Do things that could improve yourself. Learn a new skill or work on your talent to add to your repertoire.

Keep yourself busy and don’t be lazy. Time is running out so find good uses for it.

What is your least favorite memory?

Sophomore year, the first few days of when I got here from the Philippines. I didn’t know how the lunch period worked. I left the lunchroom early and when I tried to come back in they didn’t let me. I had to eat lunch by myself on the stairs. Another time I got suspended for accidentally bringing my box cutter from work into the school.

Did you have any regrets while you attended school?

I regret that during sophomore year I only did swimming and volleyball. I didn’t do as much as I wanted to. I was also kind of shy then so I didn’t do a lot of things. I also didn’t have much time because I was busy taking care of the house and had to take care of siblings. I also was such an a______ to Ms. Doyle the first two months and being late to Ferrarini’s class, which ended up with me missing out on content.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

Be confident in yourself, it makes you more likeable and people will approach you. Have a group of friends you can rely on.

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Photo by Millie Martinez

Cari Russel

playing the sport with its constant “stay on the edge” intensity.

After I finished my sophomore year, I transitioned from MYP to IB and it’s difficulty increased as there were new responsibilities that had to be taken care of. In the middle of sophomore year, I realized that as a growing teen, you must start acting like a mature adult and start taking on adult things into your life, like a job.

I started working at Montrose Food Mart and Deli my sophomore year in order to finance myself in the future because I was planning to buy a car. Because of this, I was able to learn indirect skills from the program like time management, which in return helped me overcome my weakness of not being able to do the things I wanted while also being able to do things that were necessary.

Skills that I learned from this program helped me get my life organized and in shape in order to prepare myself for what is after high school – college.

Although I’ll be attending Wilbur Wright Community College, with a such a high GPA, I’ll be taking their Engineering Pathways program. This will steer me into the direction of taking Mechanical Engineering at the University of Illinois, Urbana Champaign, with the reduced cost of tuition when I do transfer.

My advice for the upcoming seniors and others is to never procrastinate and to feel like everything will wrap up nicely for you. If this is your mindset, keep in mind that this was mine too from freshman to junior year, but as soon as you realize that you’re about to reach adult life, you better take the reins and get yourself back on top.

Long story short: MYP/IB was worth it, but for not what it gave directly – the credit hours and IB Diploma. It was worth it for what it gave indirectly – skills in organization, time-management, leadership and maturity.

These skills are what’ll help you the most to pass college because there will be problems where you can’t study because of lack of time, but with this program, you’ll definitely get the college study vibes.

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Tiyun Harvey

By Aja Williams

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iyun Harvey is an African American female who ranked Number 7 out of all the seniors. She’s about 5’7 with dark brown hair. When you see her you’ll know who she is – a hard working student who takes pride in everything she does.

Tiyun is in the International Baccalaureate program, which focus on teaching students to think critically and independently, and how to inquire with care and logic.

“The IB program is very stressful, but it teaches you life skills such as time management, organization, and leadership,” Tiyun said.

Her classmates see her talent and hard work.

“Tiyun excelled in the math and science subjects,” senior Briana Raper said.

Tiyun has a busy life. She works at Walgreens for at least 25 hours a week, while taking care of her niece on her down time.

Her hard work pays off; she has a lot of designer shoes and clothes.

Working for what you want really shows when you’re successful with it.

“Tiyun’s style is luxurious,” her friend Cari Russell said. “Tiyun has

Photo by Erika Carrasco

6

an expensive style, but she makes it look very trendy. She has a nice shoe collection.”

Tiyun is going to Illinois State University, majoring in Business Accounting. She received a $2,000 Redbird scholarship from the school, a $1,000 scholarship from the school recognizing her involvement in the IB program, and a $1,000 scholarship from The Third Unitarian Church.

“The only thing holding Tiyun back is Tiyun,” teacher Katherine Doyle said. “She has excellent potential, but she doesn’t have a high confidence level, which sometimes causes her to defeat herself. She needs to give herself more credit.”

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Star Notables Most changed since freshman year: Alexander Hernandez Eryk Przybyszerski Kyle Beliakoff Marc Ocampo Patricia Abrigunda Antoine Peden Adrian Paz Biggest Flirt: Leslie Sequeira Kevon Proctor Jovany Sanchez Saul Sanchez Katera Goldman

Best snapchat stories: Steven Nunez Vinnie Rvera Joshua Hampton Michelle Villanueva A joy to teachers: Agape Alfaro Monica Laddaran Lesly Herrera Emily Gonzales Miguel Viruet Daria Velazquez Nathalie Rojas Continued on Page 10

Star Top 10 Hans Sabado

By Agape Alfaro

U

sually quiet until you get to know him, International Baccalaureate (IB) student Hans Sabado ranks Number 9 in the graduating class of 2018.

Though he isn’t very talkative, Hans participated in a couple of clubs while attending Steinmetz. During his freshman and sophomore year he participated in gaming club and played volleyball his junior year.

“I’d recommend joining a club,” he said.

“You get to meet people you wouldn’t meet regularly, especially because in IB, you’re with the same people everyday.”

Hans was able to balance his different activities by planning out what to do after school, and making sure he had enough time to do what he needed to do, along with having time to rest.

“Running down what I needed to do was

really helpful,” he said.

Other things that kept Hans sane through the years was his interest in basketball, anime, and videogames. His love for phone games definitely helped him though high school.

“Every single internal assessment (IA), the two years in Ochwat’s class and the IB exams that took around three weeks Photo by Frank Cabrera to complete,” were some of the challenges Hans faced in the rigorous program.

Hans was honest when he responded with how he handled those challenges: “I mostly ignored it. Once it got to a certain point, it kind of helped me to do the work faster.”

For his ITGS class, he said: “I left it until there was one week left and finished it in three days. The pressure gets to you and helps. If I didn’t have the pressure, I wouldn’t have been able to get it done.”

Continued on Page 20

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Yahaira Villatoro

around with their nice clothes and briefcases. Yahaira really

By Elise Guillen wants to build her way to the top. Knowing how she made it ahaira Villatoro is ranked to the top of the senior class, it’s Number 10 in the gradvery likely she’ll be able to do uating class, maintainthe same in the future. ing a 4.8 GPA, but she wants Although her future is to be remembered as more than bright, it wasn’t easy for her that and doesn’t want her rank to get to this point; she had to to define her. overcome obstacles and work She was in JROTC, a privery hard for it. Villatoro was mary captain in drill, while also rejected from her dream school, participating in After School the University of Chicago, and Matters, National Honor Sowas very heartbroken about it. ciety, the mentor program and Yet, it just wasn’t meant for her. dual enrollment classes.

Yahaira although sad, turned Yahaira’s well spoken, intelPhoto by Frank Cabrera the situation around. ligent and humble. Her person“It’s fine if you don’t get in ality really shined whenever she spoke about your dream school,” she said. “That may be her future, near and far. She will be attending a door that closed but so many more open.” the University of Illinois at Chicago next fall Yahaira knows that there are always opand will be majoring in business. portunities out there and she will find them.

She said she is excited to attend. She has She is able to do this with her strong work always loved the downtown feel and the busy- ethic, maintaining mostly A’s throughout her ness of the city and knows she wants to be high school career. Yahaira knew she had to be one of the many people downtown walking dedicated and focus in order to be successful.

Continued on Page 21

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Star Top 20

Photo by Millie Martinez

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nyone who knows Elise Guillen is aware of her love for cats, her mom and education. She’s a motivated student, which led her to being ranked 14th in the Class of 2018.

During her freshman year, Elise wasn’t aware that student rank was being kept by the school. “When I discovered that I was ranked five, I thought that was cool,” she said.

Elise wanted to continue to be in the Top Ten, but realized over the years how difficult it was to maintain that spot since others were trying harder as well.

“I found out that the Top 20 sat on stage at graduation,” she said. “I wanted to stay and I did.”

Elise was part of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Program and a majority of her time was dedicated towards it. Along the way she had some difficulties with classes.

“I had a hard time in math and science since I’m not really motivated to take them, especially when it came to lab reports because I’m not passionate about those subjects along with other petty assignments,” she said.

IB students know there’s a lot of work to do in the program and deadlines are expected to be met.

“It was hard to find courage to do assignments in those classes when you’re expected to not only do them, but to succeed in them as well,” she said During her senior year, Elise de-

Marcos Estrada

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wimmer, runner, artist, and a student in the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, Marcos Estrada is all of this and much more. It is hard to balance all this while still succeeding all around in these activities, and Marcos has done an excellent job in doing so.

Marcos came to the United States at the age of nine. Not knowing any English, Marcos had to pick up a new language, and that is no easy task. In entering high school, he proved he could be in the high ranks at Steinmetz and take on a rigorous program. IB is not for everyone, but he showed that he could take on the program and succeed. And he did so.

Marcos graduates with a ranking in the top 20 at Steinmetz.

Marcos has shown that he brings in a work ethic that is dedicated and persisted to improving, i.

Photo by Frank Cabrera

By Luis Huerta

Although Marcos’s friend Ana Avila said her favorite trait about Marcos is that he is a “funny person,” she spoke mostly about his hard work: “He is a perfectionist. He does everything to his fullest potential, pushes himself to be the best.”

Marcos is an artist who created many pieces that revolved around the theme of emotion or mental health issues, but soon these evolved into how hands and their posture can tell a story.

“It first connected to me by one of the first pieces I did, that included myself, but now it connects to

me because of how maybe we take things for granted, like our hands that we can do so much with them, but we might not take care of them,” he said.

Many of his pieces have been displayed in art galleries, such as the Robert Morris gallery, which held a total of eight pieces created by him.

Not only is Marcos a great artist but also a great athlete. He played a total of four sports in his four years of high school. He played for the volleyball team for two years, for which he was made captain. He ran for the cross-country team where he was made captain as well, for two consecutive years, and he took the award of ‘Best New Athlete’ and ‘MVP’ the following year.

He went on to do a season of swimming and two seasons of water polo. He did not get awards for these sports, but he received those recognitions through his determination to improve himself every day.

In water polo he went from being a Continued on Page 21

Steffin Kurian

By Emelie Gonzalez

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teffin Kurian is one of Steinmetz’s most honorable students who dedicated his high school career to good grades and sports.

As an International Baccalaureate (IB) student, Steffin worked hard to achieve his IB Diploma and gain a spot on the Top 20.

He ran cross country and track, both for two years. He joined the marathon team for one year, and has been a member of the National Honor Society since he was a sophomore.

In addition to all his hard work, he had fun with friends who appreciate Steffin’s varied interests.

“Steffin loves Indian movies and women; he has the best beard and is a fast runner,” track and field team member Ihmud Ihmud said.

“He’s strong and he has good taste in music,” said Michal Macko, one of Steffin’s closest friends.

Steffin will be attending Wright

Photo by Frank Cabrera

By Agape Alfaro

cided to join the certificate program which allowed her to take two nonIB classes.

“I’m honestly so happy that certificate program is a thing that happened. It opened up classes that I wanted to take so I didn’t have to take ones I wasn’t passionate about,” she said.

Elise admitted that some people looked down on her for choosing the certificate program instead of going full IB. “It’s kind of funny since I ended up getting better grades in certificate than those people because I cared about my classes,” she said.

Elise knew that certificate was the better option for her instead of full IB. “A lot of the IB kids would label Shakespeare and AP Environmental Science as my ‘easy classes’ but I still had to do a lot of work. It wasn’t as easy as they thought.”

Students in IB classes have most, if not all, of their classes chosen for them.

Continued on Page 20

Community College for two years, and then transferring out of state to achieve his goal in being a nurse practitioner.

The Star interviewed Steffin.

What advice would you give to the underclassmen?

Do good the first two years so you can get your GPA up, and then chill the last two years.

Do you have any regrets?

Taking art for the last two years of high school instead of taking ITGS. What are you going to miss?

The conversations we had during lunch.

Who inspires you?

Ghandi and my parents.

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Emily Salgado

By Eli Patino

E

mily Salgado will be going to University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) to major in biochemistry.

“My favorite classes at Steinmetz were anatomy, AP environmental science and forensic science,” she said.

In addition to making excellent grades and working hard on academics at Steinmetz, Emily worked at a dentist’s office, interning as a dental assistant. She is grateful for friends and family.

“My friends have been very important to because they are always there to help me when I need it the most, and they always find a way to make school feel fun,” she said. “My dad has been the one who is helping me succeed because he is supportive with every deci-

Photo by Erika Carrasco

Elise Guillen

sion that I make in regards to my education.”

Emily transferred to Steinmetz after moving from California, She impressed others with her friendliness and easygoing nature. “She seems shy at first, but she is really easy to talk to,” Jane Nero said.

Emily said she will miss her friends and teachers “who have made senior year an enjoyable experience.”

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May - June 2018 Steinmetz Star 7

Star Seniors

8

Santiago Valero

Amy Carmona

By Emelie Gonzalez and Valeriia Lytvak

By Daria Velazquez

By Lara Banez

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S

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8 Steinmetz Star May - June 2018

All City Art winner See the Steinmetz Star website for a story about Natalie’s work being chosen for the All City Art exhibit. Artwork illustrates the report: http://steinmetzstar.com/wordpress/2018/03/artwork-chosen-for-all-city-art-exhibit/

my was involved in several academic, extra curricular and community ativities.

She was part of the JROTC program that teaches patience, responsibility, respect and leadership. She was a major in S-2, in charge of well-being and materials. making sure all was accounted for, such as the archery equipment.

Another place you might see her in a uniform is on the field where she is playing soccer.

Amy participated in girls’ soccer for most of her four years. In her senior year she had the great opportunity to play on the varsity team.

When Amy plays, she plays with all she’s got.

Because of her experience with leadership and her skills of operating and organizing a team, she was captain of the junior varsity team.

She showed fearlessness and determination on the field. Even when she got injured several times during the season and throughout the years, she came back, better and more determined to play.

She explained that she got the motivation to get better from the support of her teammates, family, friends and her coaches.

Even the strongest and most fearless have their weak moments. There was a time in Amy’s life that impacted her greatly, specifically during her freshman and sophomore years. She lost a special person in her life that affected her to the point that it also affected her studies. With the help and guidance of close friends and family she got back to focusing on her school life.

She is going to Northeastern Illinois University. She is still undecided as to what she would like to pursue in life but all options are considered.

The Star interviewed Amy about her life at Steinmetz What was your experience like?

My high school experience was better than what I first thought it would be. I have been able to meet some of my closest friends and the greatest teachers I have ever had.

The classes I enjoyed the most have to be all my science classes, mainly with Mr. Javier. Sgt. Davis, Mr. Javier, Mr. Goldberg and Mr. Gonzalez have been the best teachers I have ever met. Not only do they help the kids learn but the help with other problems. They have been my biggest support throughout high school.

What will you miss most?

I’m going to miss the community service projects we would do, such as going to cleaning up the park.

Jorge’s life, as for many students, has been filled with obstacles that are sometimes hard to overcome. Jorge has shown that anything is possible if you believe in yourself and know that you can accomplish more than you are expected.

“I think Jorge is an all around amazing dude,” his friend Jonathan Ogden said. “Despite the hardships that he’s been through in life, he still manages to be a kind person and smart student who is also a great friend. He’s like a gentle giant.”

Jorge is a true friend; he will always be there to help and encourage others along the way.

We’re proud of Jorge’s many successes and

hope to see him get everything he deserves in life. We’re honored to call ourselves his friend and wish him all the best.

The Star interviewed Jorge.

Who motivates you?

My mother motivated me to be a better person and a better student because I am her first born, first generation, and I have opportunities available to me that she didn’t have growing up. I just want to live up to my potential and show her what I can accomplish with her support and encouragement.

What are your goals for the future?

To become more organized as a student and become more active in the Chicago commu-

antiago Valero is dynamic, funny and very mature.

“He always has good things to say to others,” OneGoal teacher Miguel Ochoa said. “When he talks, people listen.”

Santiago is also a very intelligent person, especially when it comes to game design.

His favorite software to use is Unreal Engine, which consists of tools for game developers to design and build games, simulations, and much more.

“I want to pursue becoming a game designer when I’m older,” Santiago said.

“I believe that gaming is a good medium to use when trying to tell a story, because you can manipulate it in ways that other media can’t.”

Originally, Santiago was going to pursue becoming a graphic designer. He knows that he could land a job due to high demand, but right now doesn’t see it as a field that he’d enjoy.

Santiago plans on going to Wright College, save up money, then transfer to Blackburn College or Columbia College to major in game design and have a minor in development.

“He’s very smart,” senior Natalia Holguin said. “I know that he’s going to do great things.”

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Natalie Palomares

Photo by Millie Martinez

orge Garcia is one of Steinmetz greatest treasures. He’s a strong student, real friend, good brother to his sister and an inspirational person.

“Success comes in different ways for people,” he said. “For me, it is to be able to afford college and get a good education.”

He has proven himself as an intellectual and hardworking student. As one of the Class of 2018 Top 20 students, Jorge shows his drive to succeed with everything he does. He was the first Steinmetz student to receive $1 million in scholarship offers, thanks to the International Baccalaureate (IB) program and his SAT scores.

He will be majoring in business accounting and minoring in international business at DePaul University.

Jorge acknowledges that IB is a struggle, but worth it.

“The classes are focused and feel personal,” Jorge said.

This program made Jorge stronger and more motivated. He did not give up at times when the pressure was high. And that’s what IB is about; it always challenges you.

He was part of many activities, including the National Honors Society and the Academic Decathlon team, which was the best Steinmetz team in a decade. He earned several scholastic achievement awards, more than 10 medals.

Besides doing well academically, Jorge is also a great athlete. The list of sports that Jorge participated in is impressive: swimming, volleyball, cross country and track and field. He was co-captain for volleyball and co-captain for track and field, for which he received the “Committed to Excellence” award. He was in top five in the city for shot put and discus.

“Jorge is an outstanding teammate,” Coach Paul Bagdonas said. “His leadership and work ethic carry over to the younger athletes.”

Jorge was part of the weight room club for two years. He also was vice president of the Rubix Cube club.

His family members encouraged him and have always have been there to motivate him.

Junior Keyla Garcia, his younger sister, said she is inspired by his determination.

“He wanted to learn Japanese, so he went up and learned it,” she said.

He is a passionate Japanese learner. He was part of the Kakehashi project, which took a group of juniors and seniors to Japan in 2016.

He was the only sophomore, after choosing to work on a personal project that year to learn the langague. This year he was part of the Japanese decathlon team.

Jorge is a talented artist whose work was displayed at the Robert Morris gallery. Art teacher Rosanna Mark-Andreu, gave the most positive feedback about him.

“Jorge’s representational accuracy with visual art allows him to communicate riveting social justice issues that compels the viewer to analyze and question their personal views,” she said. “His charming and engaging personality allows him to interact with his audience personally and professionally. He was delightful to have as a student.”

Frederick Crittendon

Photo by Frank Cabrera

Photo by Millie Martinez

Jorge Garcia

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By Tamara Johnson

F

rederick Crittendon Jr., Freddy for short, is a multi-talented young man.

He’s reflective, hard working and he’s an exceptional friend.

Growing up the oldest, in a full house, with eight cousins and one brother, he had a lot of support. His parents were tough, but they gave him just enough freedom to do what he wanted and needed.

As a child he dreamt of being in the Air Force. He spent most of his time outdoors playing. He also enjoyed reading, writing and sports, which are some of the many talents that he took with him into high school.

“High school has been emotional, fun and aggravating all at once,” he said. “I got to get involved by changing who my friends were and playing sports for Steinmetz. My main struggle was staying motivated to do my class work.”

Freddy will be attending College of DuPage. He has developed lots of different skills from sports to music. He wants to get an Associates Degree in music.

“He has great potential as a writer and I’m looking forward to helping him next year,” Freddy’s OneGoal teacher Miguel Ochoa said.

Students and staff have gotten the chance to watch Frederick grow.

“Freddy is very mature person, but when he’s around his friends he can get a little immature,” junior Jaden Mitchell said. “He’s reasonable and understanding and always willing to help others out.”

These qualities are part of the reason he is well-liked, so much so that he won Homecoming King this year.

“Freddy is always looking out for his friends,” Eric Gonzalez said. “I can’t remember a time when he was thinking just for himself.

He’s always helping out. He never lets any of us settle for less. He pushes us to go above and beyond. He was a good leader on the football team and so many underclassmen look up to him.”

His four years at Steinmetz allowed him to grow, mature and experience the many wonders of life.

“My life values consist of faith, positive vibes and just being happy while maintaining a fantastic work ethic,” Freddy said. “If I could any advice to someone coming into high school it would be to not take anything granted. These years go by fast and every year is important. Enjoy it all.”

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nity by during service and spreading awareness on issues that are important to me.

What will you miss most about high school?

My peers because we’ve created a special bond over the last four years and there are countless times I wanted to give up, but didn’t because I was inspired by everyone’s perseverance and hard work.

Do you have any advice for others?

Always have small goals in mind, such as being better than you were yesterday. Remember that your actions and impressions leave an impact on those around you.

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Star Seniors

By Lara Banez

O

n the court or the track, Lluviccia Gomez is one of the leading players of her graduating class. Throughout her years at Steinmetz she has committed herself to playing sports.

She’s played four years of volleyball and three years of basketball, and participated on the track & field team, all on varsity since freshman year.

Lluviccia has achieved a number of awards for the undeniable skills she executes every season.

She earned MVP (most valuable player) for volleyball four years, and varsity captain her sophomore year and the following years.

She was MVP for basketball twice, and best defensive player, JV captain her freshman year and varsity captain her sophomore year.

She also received a medal for third place in a 4 x 200 relay for track & field.

She applies the same determination and dedication to her academics. Coming into Steinmetz her freshman year, she had taken the opportunity to be a part of the advanced Middle Years Program (MYP). However, due to personal issues it was her decision to leave the program and provide care and support for her family.

She has maintained and focused on keeping up her grades every semester.

While she isn’t on the court or at school, Lluviccia enjoys exploring and discovering new places. She is very active and adventurous and isn’t afraid to try out new things.

Her family means everything; she is very fond of her nephew, as she likes to play with him because of the joy he gives her.

You would expect her to pursue a career or take a major relating to sports, but one thing you might not know about her is her passion and interest in film. On her free time, she also likes to write short films. She is currently working on one that views the life of children and working together.

This fall, Lluviccia will be attending Harold Washington College where she will be signed under Nine, a modeling and acting program, where she will expand and take courses for modeling and acting meanwhile get her degree for paralegal and minor in film.

She hopes to explore more of the movie business and build a career as a movie director.

Lluviccia has achieved so much and created this reputation for herself at Steinmetz that many will not forget.

She is an ambitious, independent young women who is very resourceful and has big dreams that she is certain she will accomplish.

She is also a person that does not let things affect her and will continue to keep pushing herself to be the best.

The Star interviewed Lluviccia about her life and experiences at Steinmetz.

What were your experiences of being in the MYP program?

My experience was not bad but it was a struggle for me. I’m a year- round athlete and helped my mom everyday after practice when she had a second job and it was really frustrating to get homework done and study because

Ihmud Ihmud

Briana Raper

Photo by Millie Martinez

Jonathan Ogden

Photo by Frank Cabrera

Photo by Millie Martinez

Lluviccia Gomez

9

By Abdulkabir Yahya

By Briana Raper

By Jay Ann Perez

J

onathan “BigJon” Ogden is a student athlete who loves to work hard.

He was in the Middle Years/International Baccalaureate (MYP/IB) program for three years, wanting to challenge himself the best he could. He left it senior year because he felt that he finally achieved the threshold of hard work he was trying to reach. He also left because he felt dissatisfied with the material he would be receiving his senior year.

“It really didn’t line up with what I wanted to do later in life,” he said. He was hoping to concentrate more on going towards a future job and realized working smart is better than working hard. Although he left, he understood all material taught in class.

“I was never really discouraged by the work and I was able to handle and understand everything taught,” he said.

Besides academics, he is a beast on the court. He was on the basketball team his freshman and junior year. Joining volleyball his sophomore year, and continuing until his senior year, BigJon was able to be captain his senior year.

Although he did not join his freshman year, his experience with volleyball is greater than somebody that played on the team for over four years. By finding the right group of friends, his opportunities to become the beast on the court he is today were increased.

Jonathan played volleyball after school at least twice a week (In addition to volleyball practice), and over the summer almost everyday. He played against people he never met before, and made great friendships through playing volleyball.

He will be attending North Park University, and will also be joining the new volleyball team North Park is setting up.

“Jonathan is the epitome of what I look for in a captain,” coach Miguel Ochoa said.

“He strikes the perfect balance of skill, drive and teamwork. Yes, he is a very good player, but he wasn’t always so. He understands what it means to struggle and in so doing is able to serve as a great example to the rest of the team. Add to that a great demeanor that allows players to grow and a personality that they are willing to follow. Jonathan is a coach’s dream and we are lucky to have student athletes like them here at Steinmetz. With great peer leadership, the entire extracurricular experience is enhanced for the team.”

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I

hmud M Ihmud became one of the Class of 2018’s stand-out student athletes after coming to Steinmetz in his junior year all the way from Palestine in the Middle East. In addition to his excellent work in the classroom, he participated in many extracurricular activities like swimming, track and field and basketball.

“He is so awesome,” said Susy Sullivan, Ihmud’s swim coach and teacher. “He’s a great student whom I expect a lot from.”

Ihmud is driven to be a successful student athlete, but it isn’t easy.

He joined the International Baccalaureate (IB) program and found it to be challenging to adapt to his new environment, especially with the different technological barriers.

But with the help of his peers and teachers, Ihmud found confidence in himself and, now as a senior, he is reminiscing about how IB has made him into a better candidate for college through the many experiences he gained.

His daily routine consists of working out in the gym and playing basketball. You can usually find him working his after school shifts at Subway, Monday through Saturday.

On the other hand, his Sundays are filled with “a lot of Arabic parties,” he said. He will attend the University of Illinois at Chicago in the fall and has decided to pursue the career path of a physical therapist.

The Star interviewed Ihmud.

How would you describe yourself?

As an international student, because of being in the IB program and traveling from another country, Palestine.

What kind of sports do you play? Any awards?

Why do you like these sports?

Swimming, track and field and basketball. I received an award for being 3rd place in swimming. I like long jump because I like the feeling of jumping in the air and reaching 19 feet. I like to swim because it helps me clear my mind when I’m underwater since it is peaceful.

When I’m underwater, my thoughts are to myself. I just hear the water and people jumping in. It’s relaxing.

How did you feel about the IB program? How was your experience?

It made me a better candidate for college. It influenced my character as in making me feel I can do the impossible. I came here my junior year. I wasn’t as skilled or prepared as other students in the program so one of my experiences were coming from another country where I wasn’t dealing with a lot of technology.

I had to learn how to do lab reports and homework on technological gadgets.

Most memorable moment?

Being qualified for city in swimming in my first year and getting to have the experience of swimming in UIC’s pool.

What will you miss the most about Steinmetz?

Being in activities with friends and teachers.

I wouldn’t get enough sleep. My experience was just bad timing because I did go through something that traumatized me for a good while in which brought my grades down.

It was just bad timing for me, I just wish I could’ve been in it my freshman year and on, not sophomore year.

What were the benefits of playing sports?

I love these sports because they’re another escape zone for me when I feel overwhelmed.

I’m a very active person I love to stay fit so these sports help maintain my figure.

I believe in being very energetic and these

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sports allow me to be very positive and awake and lets me get good deep sleep. I also love how I meet new people each year and build a bond with my teams. It helps you to be more social and I am a very friendly person so I adapt quickly.

What will you miss the most?

I will most definitely miss Mr. Ochoa. He helped me out in many ways that not all teachers do. He is literally my go to. I can count on him to be there for me even after I graduate.

The Star interviewed Mr. Ochoa about his view on Lluviccia as a student.

S

ome of my favorite classes were history, ITGS, and biology; my favorite teachers were Ms. Ferrarini, Ms. Doyle, Mr. Borges, and Ms. Hank.

Some of my biggest accomplishments out weres completing the IB Exams, being ranked #25 in the class and doing well in all my classes senior year.

While at Steinmetz, I was involved in the National Honor Society, the mentoring program, and Junior Achievement.

It was nice to meet to new people and interact with students outside of class while serving the community.

I also participated in the After School Matters program, The Beat, from my freshman year to junior year. I made new friends with other students, and even got the chance to perform for people inside/ outside of school.

One of the memorable events that I have experienced at Steinmetz is being on stage to tell juniors about what to expect and how to prepare for their SATs. I helped gather a group of seniors to talk to the juniors about the SATs. It was a fun experience.

The people in my family who are helping me to succeed are my mother, my grandfather, and my Aunt Faye. They all encourage me to continue my education and give me advice for times when I really need it. I honestly love them and how they all are truly examples of who I want to be when I grow up.

This summer I will be working downtown as an After School Matters ambassador, going to a lot of concerts and preparing for college.

My advice for other students is when you feel like school is getting too overwhelming, talk to parents, counselors and teachers about to troubles. They will listen to what you have to say and most likely will try to help you.

My advice for school leaders and teachers to improve Steinmetz: Try to give IB more field trips.

One of my favorite memories was going to Grad Nite; it was my first time going to Six Flags. One of my least favorite memories was getting my hair piece snatched off my head in gym my freshman year.

I will miss the teachers, some students, Homecomings and the Steinmetz staff.

Congrats to the Class of 2018.

•

Lluviccia Gomez is a very charismatic individual that strives to make people around her better. She does have a competitive nature but it is one that lends itself well to team sports because of her selflessness. She wants to see others do well.

If the team wins and she doesn’t perform well, she won’t pout but instead will be happy for the rest of the team.

The same goes for the classroom. She works well in groups and does a great job of getting others involved. I have know her for four years on the court and in the classroom and has been nothing short of exceptional.

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May - June 2018 Steinmetz Star 9

Star Seniors

Photo by Millie Martinez

I

n your four years of high school, you will meet an abundance of people, some will stay and other will go. It’s something that will happen and it’s inevitable, some friends will return to being strangers.

However, there will be friends that will stick by your side and there will be someone who you couldn’t possibly thank enough for all his support. Ivan Navarrete is one of those students, and to say that he was just another student in Steinmetz is a huge understatement.

I remember freshman year. I was barely meeting my future high school friends while missing my old elementary friends. There is a sense of loneliness one feels when you arrive somewhere with no one to speak to and no one to understand you.

I won’t lie when I say I honestly didn’t want to speak to him when I saw him for the first time. Meeting new people has never been my strong suit. It was at my lunch table, a table that will soon inherit memories. I sat with Alex Loyola, “just another student”, and with him was the star of this article. To me he was another student. The future for us was unknown.

We both didn’t know that we will consider each other as brothers. We didn’t know that he would eventually see me at my lowest and reach out to fix me. We didn’t know we would laugh at jokes for what feels like an hour despite it not being funny more than once of course. We didn’t know we would finish a football stadium pizza by ourselves. No, at that moment the only thing we knew was this person before me is just a stranger.

From then on, Ivan always made sure to speak everything on his mind, to be the most social one, unafraid to laugh and be the life of the party. As he has been known to say often, “Dude, I speak everything on my mind; that’s the first thing I do when I get to the table.”

Athletically, Ivan was at the top of his limit but that didn’t stop when it came to track. While it was fast career (pun intended) that didn’t stop him from receiving a medal for 3rd place in a 4 X 8 relay.

Academically, he tried time and time again to best himself, though there are times where his motivation was not present. It happens with all of us. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen him geek out over receiving a higher grade than me or if he failed, he always went over the missed answers and couldn’t believe his mistakes.

From the start, his goal in life has always been to be psychologist. His first step was taken, of course, when I came to him with my personal problems. His first academic step was taken in junior year when he took Psychology and AP Psychology senior year.

Ivan will be attending Wright College and while I may not see him as often, I know he’ll still be my brother. He’s a one of a kind friend and he is the reason so many people have stepped out of their shell including myself.

We’re all strangers to each other at some point, but life has its chances and their rewards.

I believe I am lucky enough to have friend like Ivan. I hope you find a friend like him, too.

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10 Steinmetz Star May - June 2018

By Ivan Navarrete

By Alyanna Fontanilla

A

M

ntonio Sanchez has been my best friend since I met him. He has put up with me for four years, even at times when I didn’t treat him the best. He is one of the nicest people I know and has had my back since Day One. I’m truly grateful to have met him and I probably wouldn’t have done as well as I did without him.

For this senior profile, I decide to ask him questions about his years as a high school student.

What was your favorite memory in high school?

My favorite memory has always been when we hang at the lunch table, specifically sophomore year with you, Leslie, Natalie, Alex (with his occasional appearance), Kim and Cornelius. Those have always been my highlight of the day.

The day we tried the flash bang (one of the world’s hottest sauces) is also a good memory, especially when we tried to play it off in Ms. Perez’s class.

What will you miss?

Making dumb jokes I know wouldn’t be accepted in the real world.

What was the hardest thing you had to face within school?

Having a balance between my friends and school. It felt impossible at times, but my friends understood and had my back.

How would you say you’ve changed?

I think for the most part I’m still a little shy, of course, but not to the degree I was in freshman year. I always thought that I couldn’t make any friends here because there was nothing outstanding about me. I say for sure I have a better confidence in myself, thanks to so many people Where do you see yourself in 30 years?

I’ll be 47 and hopefully I’ll be the screenwriter I aspired to be and write for a show that I also created.

onica Mitchell moved to Chicago about a year ago from Nebraska. At first she thought her experience here at Steinmetz would be the worst. But with the friends she has made along the way, it didn’t turn out so bad.

As she wasn’t in Steinmetz for all four years, she didn’t get the chance to join any extracurricular activities.

Monica plans on attending the University of Nebraska, Omaha, where she’ll be focusing on Early Childhood Education.

Monica’s central source of support at the moment is her dad.

“He could be really harsh sometimes, and his methods wouldn’t always be the best, but I know it’s for my own good,” she said.

For the past two years she has spent in Steinmetz, Monica has made a good group of friends.

“The best part of my day would be in my 5th period class, Senior Seminar,” she said. “I ’ve made most of my close friends there: Aliah Rojas, Nataly Yousif, Michelle Guadarrama, Mariana Fuentes, Alyanna Fontanilla and Elijah Mendez.”

Her advice to other students is to never procrastinate and always be in school on time: “Stay updated on important things having to do with school.”

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William Mora

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Star Notables Best bromance: Adrian Paz & Alexander Hernandez Ivan Navarrete & Antonio Sanchez Ezra Charez & Steven Nunez Rocky Ukoja and Jeremy Lugo Kenneth Delgado & Ricardo Guzman Noah Garcia & Santiago Valero Marc Ocampo & Kyle Beliakoff Baddest b______: Jasmine VIdes Emily Gonzales Patricia Abrigunda Yuridia Galaviz Aja Williams Nicole Espinoza Natalia Holguin Karla Aguilar Katherinne Garcia Best person to ever live: Jairo Bravo

Photo by Frank Cabrera

Photo by Millie Martinez

By Antonio Sanchez

Monica Mitchell

Photo by Frank Cabrera

Antonio Sanchez

Ivan Navarette

Rocky Ukoja Jeremy Lugo

Photo by Joel Perdomo

10

By Karla Aguilar

W

illiam Mora is kind, dedicated and supportive. He’s is fun, energetic and down

to earth.

I met William at the end of freshmen year and it has been nothing but laughs and fun memories.

He joined the track & field team his junior year and played soccer sophomore year. He went on a journey to better himself and become more fit.

He manages family, friends and work all together. He might come off as shy at first but, he’s a really funny person to be around. He brings nothing but positives vibes.

•

By Tamara Johnson

R

ahman Ukoja (Rocky) and Jeremy Armani Lugo (pictured above) have been nds for five years. They sat in homeroom on the second day of school, their freshman year of high school. Jeremy cracked a joke and Rocky finished it. They then shared schedules and it went from there. But not all things start off as perfect.

“It was right before our Homecoming game when Jeremy broke his arm. He thought he was the man and thought that people should show more respect because of his arm being broken. That annoyed me and we almost fought after that,” Rocky told the Star.

Rocky was very active as a child. He was caring. He often dreamed of being a basketball player as he was very talented in basketball. As a child he looked up to, and depended upon, his brother and grandparents. They pushed him to do and be better.

Jeremy was very energetic and a lively child.

He was very curious and always getting into things. Jeremy was a lion, brave yet aggressive.

He grew up playing sports to take his mind off of things. His family supported him and kept him motivated.

“High school was very hard, we didn’t get treated the same as everyone else,” Jeremy said.

“They didn’t let us attend any of our senior events because of the things that happened our freshmen year.

“People look at us differently because the way we talk and how we act. For example we are loud when we want to be heard and for all the mistakes we made in the past as a freshmen,” he said.

To get through all the doubtfulness, being misunderstood, and not being treated fairly, they stuck together and pushed each other to be better.

The good things that kept them going in high school included meeting new people.

“I remember when I bumped into Katera outside the mods. I touched her hand by accident and we had a friendship connection, she then introduced me to her friends and we all became close,” Rocky said.

“Shout out to Angel Gonzalez and Claudio Mendrano, for all the good memories we had in the bookroom. Also for believing in us when other teachers refused to have hope in us.” Jeremy said.

Not all staff at Steinmetz refused to believe in the two.

“These two have been extremely helpful since freshman year,” staff member Angel Gonzalez, of students services, said. “Anytime I needed help with anything I know I can count on them to get the job done. They might just get in trouble for being loud while helping me.”

“They are good kids at heart,” security guard Marcelo Rosa said. “Hopefully, they will realize their true potential.”

“Rocky and Jeremy are the type of boys you’ll think are cool from a distance. But when you get to know them personally they are really sweet,” said Odaliz Renteria, Jeremy’s girlfriend. “They can be successful in life; they just need people to believe in them.”

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Star Seniors

By Alyanna Fontanilla

A

fter Michelle Guadarrama transferred from Marine Leadership Academy last year, she met two “amazing” people, Stephanie Herrera and Alyanna Fontanilla.

“I think of Michelle as a kind, trustworthy, and honest person that I can count on for anything,” Stephanie said.

“The time we spent together has been nothing but fun and full of laughs. If it wasn’t for her, I wouldn’t be as open minded and adventurous as I am now.

I’m grateful to have her in my life.”

In addition to making friends at Steinmetz, Michelle got the opportunity to join the bowling team.

She will be attending the University of Indianapolis where she plans to work her way into achieving her career goal of being a child psychologist.

“I have a pretty big support system that has motivated me throughout the school year,” Michelle said. “I really couldn’t have done it without them.”

Her advice to other students is to stay in school and finish everything that’s required to graduate instead of doing so at the last minute: “Don’t miss deadlines like I did, and do apply to as many colleges and for as many scholarships as you can.”

This summer, Michelle is going to attend the annual music festival Lollapalooza. She also plans on going to Costa Rica for vacation before she starts preparing herself physically and mentally for college.

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Noah Garcia

Tyrek Gates

Photo by Frank Cabrera

Photo by Frank Cabrera

Photo by Frank Cabrera

Michelle Guadarrama Emmily Bazan

11

By Vinnie Rivera

E

mmily Bazan is my best friend. She’s my favorite person I’ve ever met. She’s always there for me and just never lets me down. If it wasn’t for Steinmetz we would have never met and I most likely would have been lost.

Emmily answered the following questions.

What was your experience as a Steinmetz student?

I enjoyed Steinmetz with all the friendships I made, especially that we all learned to grow with the same people. I loved being in Ccheerleading because it was always something that motivated me and having them also as a team I considered them my second family”.

How have you maintained grades in the International Baccalaureate program?

I stay strong in the program because I knew I wanted to succeed. It was a tremendous amount of studying and pulling allnighters at least once a week, but I knew that it was preparing us for the real world and to the next chapter of our lives. I can finally say I’m more than ready.

What will you miss about Stienmetz?

I’m going to definitely miss the people in IB, only because we were all in the same classes for four years and grew as a family.

The teachers really pushed me to go above and beyond I will miss them as well. I’m going to miss my two best friends, Erika and Vinnie, who have always been there for me.

These people hold a special place in my heart because without them, high school would definitely suck.

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By Daria Velazquez

By Tamara Johnson

A

T

s an individual who has the ability to make anyone’s day with just his smile and sweet personality, senior Noah Garcia has touched the hearts of many.

“Noah cares a lot about others and their feelings,” senior Nicole Espinoza said. “He also gives the best hugs.”

Many of his friends also see him as someone they can come to when they are having any personal issues and need to vent.

Noah is also known within the JROTC community. Being an S4 Major he makes sure that uniforms are in check.

In addition, JROTC helped him put himself in other people’s shoes, he said.

This helped him broaden his horizons when helping others with their personal problems.

“People usually come to me with their problems,” Noah said. “I am always open to help them and work towards understanding them because I feel like people cannot go through life alone.”

These consistent practices helped him decide to attend Moody Bible Institute to major in pre-counseling.

“The one piece of advice that I would give Noah and others for the future is to always treat others the way you want to be treated,” Spanish teacher Zulma Rivera said. “But from what I’ve seen of Noah, he’ll do perfectly great. He is full of enthusiasm and has a friendly personality.”

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Steinmetz Star reporters and photographers

yrek is a very inspirational person. He’s caring, supportive and down to earth.

As a child he spent most of his time worry free, watching TV and playing games. He had an imagination that took him far. His mother worked hard to support his siblings and his dreams.

“I love my mother to death and I won’t stop working until she never has to work a day in her life,” Tyrek said. “I see how she works while being a single parent and she never gives up. God gave me the perfect mom.

Even though we’re not rich financially, spiritually we are. And I rather have that than anything else.”

High school for Tyrek was not what he entirely expected.

“Because of the higher expectations of movies I was watched when I was younger, I thought high school was really going to be like High School Musical,” he said.

He became more involved in high school by joining sports and being on the Star staff during his junior year.

Tyrek will be attending Alabama A&M, majoring in sports management and journalism.

“My dream was to be a police officer, but things change as you get older,” he said. “And your viewpoints do as well.”

After college he wants to work for ESPN or any sports company.

“He’s a very intelligent young man,” teacher Jason Mink said. “He has a great deal of curiosity, which will take him far. He will be very successful at whatever he puts his mind to.”

Many students also appreciate Tyrek.

“Tyrek is a very supportive friend and I’m grateful to have him in my life,” Javaris Jones said.

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Braden Knox

By Chiya Loyd

W

hen people think about Braden Knox they see someone very quiet, who keeps to himself, but there is much more to him.

Known as “Beast” by his basketball coach Brad Dowling, Braden has reached the pinnacle of success at Steinmetz as an honor student and great athlete.

He was recently recognized for having the most college acceptance letters of the graduating class, 33 to be exact.

Braden decided to attend Concordia University in the fall to major in Athletic Training.

“He’s very engaging,” teacher Miguel Ochoa said.

“An incredibly smart individual. He has a very bright future ahead of him.”

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May - June 2018 Steinmetz Star 11

Star Seniors

12

Alina Afzal Qureshy

Kyiah Morris

Ezra Chavez

Photo by Millie Martinez

Jane Nero

By Alina Afzal Qureshy

•

I

t feels like I waited eons to get to this point. Senior year, only a few weeks away from graduation as I write this. But in reality, it’s only been four years since my very first day in high school, as a scared freshman who barely knew anyone.

I didn’t really know what to expect; if I would make friends, if I would like my classes or if I would even be happy.

In these four years, I’ve acted in a school play and performed my poems at Louder Than a Bomb (LTAB) three times, something my shy, 14-year-old self would never have imagined.

I’ve lost friends and made new ones.

I’ve cried at 2 a.m. over projects, then presented those projects the next day with a big smile on my face.

I’ve been lonely and anxious, but I’ve also smiled and done weird dances in the middle of the hallway to make my friends laugh.

It has been a whirlwind of emotions, but in four short years I managed to discover bits and pieces of myself that I didn’t know were there before my first day of freshman year.

During senior year I accomplished a lot. I helped to design and write for the yearbook, something I’ve always wanted to do. I joined the National Honor Society. I was the captain of Academic Decathlon and helped my team get to the city championships. I performed at Louder Than A Bomb for the last time, during which I helped to write and performed my first collab poem. I got into almost all of my top choice colleges.

I even managed to graduate as part of the IB program, something I’ve been struggling with and striving for since freshman year. I experienced more things this year than I ever thought I would, and these are the memories that I will carry with me into the future, as a reminder of the four most interesting, action-packed, dramatic, stressful and all around unforgettable years of my life.

I walked into high school not knowing who I was or who I wanted to be. But even if high school wasn’t the same as I imagined it would be from the books I read, it somehow managed to be even better, because I’m leaving it with a clear vision of what I hope my future will be.

And if what’s ahead of me doesn’t match up perfectly with what I envision, it’ll be okay, because I know that these four years have prepared me for anything life has to throw at me.

12 Steinmetz Star May - June 2018

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K

yiah Morris has done a lot over the past four years in her academic career at Steinmetz College Prep.

She has been involved in activities such as volleyball, After School Matters and National Honors Society, as well as outside activities like working at Express in the Harlem Irving Plaza mall.

In her spare time she likes to go out with her friends and explore new foods all over Chicago.

Kyiah describes herself as “energetic and outgoing and full of life “

“Kyiah is good friend; she’s always there when you need her whether it’s about something important and stressful or something as simple as going to get food and laughing about stupid Facebook posts,” Emelie Gonzalez said. “Adrian Espino and I (and so many other friends) are grateful that she’s in our lives.”

Kyiah is going to Robert Morris University on a full ride scholarship.

She is determined to be the best person she can and to make both her mom and dad proud “Kyiah is a great person; I love having her in my class,” teacher Nancyanne Ferrarini said.

“I can’t wait to see the woman she becomes.”

Emelie Gonzalez

By Steven Nunez

E

melie was an MYP/IB students for four years. She was in the National Honor Society and on the Steinmetz Star since junior year.

Her love of animals has inspired her to become a wildlife biologist in the future. She also loves Bob Ross and his pet squirrel. Emelie said her favorite food is Hot Cheetos.

“They’re spicy, and you can have them for breakfast, lunch and dinner,” she said.

Junior year was her favorite because she found a group of friends that she is close with now — Kyiah Morris, Jamara McGarry, Elise Guillen and Jorge Garcia.

Photo by Steven Nunez

J

ane Nero is a talented student, known for her fantastic sense of humor and concern for animals.

“I enjoyed having Jane in class when she was a junior,” teacher Sharon Schmidt said. “Our class discussions were amazing due to her regularly hilarious comments. She’s a very interesting person who adds so much joy and fun to this place.”

Jane has been a vegetarian for two years already and has progressed as a vegan. A vegan diet is stricter than a vegetarian diet.

Being vegan means “abstinence from consuming or using animal products,” while being a vegetarian is “a person who does not eat meat; someone whose diet consists wholly of vegetables, fruits, grains, nuts and sometimes eggs or dairy products.”

Jane has worked at Panera for two years. She will attend Harold Washington Community College in the fall, but is still undecided in what to major.

She has considered becoming a science teacher.

“Of all the students I’ve seen at Steinmetz, Jane is my Most Improved candidate,” Ms. Schmidt said.

“Her peers might remember her struggles freshman year; she wasn’t doing well academically then, even though she has always been very bright. After a slow start, she began working harder for her classes and has really excelled this year.

“Not only is she my Most Improved, I’d also award her a Most Likely to Succeed because of her intelligence, intuition (except with guys), and the support she gets at home.

“As with the other students on these pages, I’m thrilled that I got know her.”

The Star interviewed Jane.

What made you become a vegetarian?

I care about animals and right after I stopped eating meat I noticed all of the health benefits like skin clearing and having a healthy weight.

What are your plans after high school?

After two years at Harold Washington, I will probably travel before committing to a university. I want to travel to New York and California. I want to go to places I’ve never seen and see if those places are right for me.

What will you miss the most once you have graduated?

Nothing has happened these four years that made me think I will miss anything because the friends I have made I can always talk to and the teachers I know, I can reach out to. There’s nothing that I can’t come back to.

Why didn’t you participate in anything your four years in high school?

Nothing seemed interesting to me.

I had work and my own stuff going on.

I didn’t want to join anything. I regret not being in clubs though.

By Jaquilya White and Jane Nero

By Katera Goldman

Photo by Steven Nunez

By Jay Ann Perez

•

E

zra Chavez will be going to Tiffin University in Ohio on an athletic scholarship to major in business. He’d like to go into real estate one day.

He is a good friend and great person. He’s really engaging and very honest. So many people are happy they met him and have him for a friend.

They say he is chill and relaxed.

Ezra is very close to his mom. He is named after his grandfather, who was a pastor.

Over the years, many girls at Steinmetz became interested in Ezra for his looks and personality. He had one serious relationship.

“I learned relationships are hard to maintain,” he said. “I wasn’t mature enough for it.” He said they are now friends.

Ezra was in the honors Middle Years Program (MYP) for two years, but chose not to continue with IB. History is his favorite class.

He has great memories of sophomore year with the older guys on the track and field team. His track and field coach Paul Bagdonas said Ezra is an “outstanding teammate, whose leadership and work ethic carried over to the younger athletes.”

A few things about high school surprised Ezra.

He didn’t expect the parties or to become an athlete. He played basketball and volleyball during freshmen year, but he was bad, he said.

He wasn’t a runner until sophomore year when his friend Steven Nunez asked him to join cross country and he found that he really liked and was good at distance running. One of his best races was in September 2017 when he won the Steinmetzhosted Fall Frolic.

•

Emelie will remember all the times she spent in Schmidt’s lunch periods, gossiping with her friends.

Along with missing her friends at Steinmetz, Emelie will also miss her teachers Mr. Kotchera, Ms. Jotwani and security staff Sam Pearson, for always greeting her every morning.

Emelie will be going to University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC).

She is involved with social issues in the world.

•

Star Seniors Agape Alfaro

Photo by Frank Cabrera

By Sharon Schmdit, teacher

By Elise Guillen

W

A

hatever the form, spoken word or news reports or commentary, Jamara McGarry is one of the best writers we’ve had at Steinmetz. It’s because she’s one of our best thinkers and an engaging and passionate person.

She’s a wry, smart young woman on her way to interesting places.

Jamara wrote the following: From organizing protests and walk-outs to writing poems for our slam team, I tried to stay involved as much as I possibly could. Steinmetz means a lot to me and I want it to mean a lot to incoming students as well.

I’ll miss the teachers and staff. They are simply amazing. They’ve become to me what I’d consider to be friends and mentors.

I really loved working with the poetry team; it has taken places and allowed me to meet people I never would’ve thought of.

I have seen Steinmetz go through so many changes but I’ve worked with it, and with my peers.

Academically fairly mediocre, but I always try to participate and do my best. One thing has made Steinmetz what it is to me is the newspaper.

The Star is a community where I’ve always felt welcomed and I’ll always remember that.

Signing off with much love and a lot of patience, Jamara. I hope the underclassmen get to see Steinmetz how I do.

Students and teachers are lucky we had a chance to know Jamara a little now. It will be a joy to see her continue to grow even more beautiful and interesting in the future. She’s one to watch.

Destinies

By Jamara McGarry Four years passed like a blink, A glitch in the matrix making Me grow two inches overnight.

But now it’s almost over, The uncertain future hurtling closer, Like a bullet train of time and space.

Senioritis consumes me, weighing down My thoughts, crushing my motivation. I Want to leave, I want to give up and get out.

These four years have given me a tiny taste Of what’s to come, and I’m ready to grab My destiny with both hands on the wheel.

Another day, another college application My days and nights consumed by thoughts Of essays and extra curriculars, by out-of-state Schools and scholarships. I’m aimless, no Rhyme or reason to where my applications go.

But I send them off with love, my tickets to destiny.

Next, those months of waiting, of checking My mailbox, both physical and digital, for That beloved big envelope. The happiness When it comes; the sadness when it doesn’t.

I cry when the big envelope I wanted most Never arrives, and take comfort in the envelopes that did.

And of course, a decision must be made, sooner Than later. The direction the rest of my life will

Steven Nunez

Daria Velezquez

Photo by Millie Martinez

Jamara McGarry

13

By Agape Alfaro and Chiya Loyd

gape Alfaro is one of the most involved students at Steinmetz. She genuinely loves the school and everything it has given her. She wants the same for future students.

Agape’s long list of activities includes being an editor for the Steinmetz Star, doing painting and drawing for ASM, being a part of the drama club, acting in and directing the school plays, participating in poetry club and performing at Louder Than A Bomb, being a member of National Honor Society, helping at many school events like Steinmetz fest and reading the daily announcements.

Although Agape is known for being involved in so many things, she describes herself as an awkward, nervous and shy person.

Friends know her to be open minded, creative, and of course, involved.

Besides being so active at Steinmetz, Agape is ranked in the Top 30 of the Class of 2018. Even though Agape is in the top tier of Steinmetz, she said, “I don’t know how I got through school.”

While she accumulated good grades, Agape considers herself, and many can agree, easily stressed.

Her high stress level made her leave the Middle Years/International Baccalaureate (MYP/IB) program that she was a part of for her first two years of high school.

“I used to think grades were everything, but you eventually learn that they don’t define you,” she said. Agape came to realize this with a harsh reality, failing a class.

“That’s when I knew something was wrong,” she said. “I failed because I stopped caring.” Agape had to retake the course in summer school and it became a real learning lesson for her.

“Everyone fails at something; it’s not something I want to hide,” she said. “With failure comes growth.” Growth is important to Agape because she knows she always has learning to do and can improve. Agape may have failed a class, but she proves she is no failure.

As for Agape’s future plans, Agape is unsure. She’ll be attending Wilbur Wright College to help her figure things out and is excited to see where it will take her.

“I don’t know what to expect,” she said.

“There’s a pressure from society to know what our plans are, but this is my future and I don’t want to rush it if I’m unsure.” Agape chooses to remain open minded about the future.

She appreciated friends and teachers and all the activities in which she was involved.

“People are so close minded about Steinmetz, but I have a lot of great memories here,” she said.

Continued on Page 21 Take can’t be left in the air, floating weightless and full of weight all at once.

I worry for my future, what will happen, What direction my life’s path should take.

Turn right, where I can hear the sounds Of success just across the bend? Or left, Where hardships and happiness await Down a hard won road?

•

D

By Kathryn Rosas

aria Velazquez, a valued Steinmetz Star reporter for the past three years, is one of the most hardworking students at Steinmetz.

She ended up being ranked Number 23 in the Class of 2018 without receiving all the weighted grades one gets in IB. She went through different struggles, such as having to travel a long distance to and from school and staying motivated each day, as well as meeting the right people.

Yet time and time again, she overcame her struggles by pushing her limits. By doing so, she was able to stay on track.

Daria helped take care of her five younger siblings and participated in extracurricular activities ranging from the Star, National Honor Society (NHS), Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA) and the drama club.

This enabled her to meet new people and do things she never thought she would. Overall, it was a positive, beneficial experience for her. Her choices made her the enthusiastic and open-minded individual she is today.

In order to help her balance school and extra curricular activitiess, she had to take deep breaths, remind herself to calm down, and not to panic.

“I set up a schedule one hour after school so I wouldn’t have to rush,” she said. I had to make sure that if I was working, it’d be on weekends so it wouldn’t collide with school, so I can focus better.”

Her future plans involve attending North Park University full-time while working parttime. She plans to become a secondary high school art teacher and an art therapist, as well.

When looking for inspiration, Daria looked towards her art teacher, Rosanna Mark.

“Ms. Mark set up a stepping stone for me to become an art teacher,” she said. “She has such a positive vibe; it’s something that I want to have when I teach.”

An accomplishment that makes Daria stand out is her participation in the National Youth Art Movement Against Gun Violence (NYAM) during her junior year. She was able to win an award with her piece “You or Me (America)” and it was displayed on a billboard for the Chicago art tour.

“Daria is the best,” Chiya Loyd said. “I’ve known her since freshman year and her image and her artwork improved so much. It was really nice to see someone that I consider a friend be recognized by many others outside Steinmetz for her powerful work.”

Other students also have noticed her artistic talent. “She speaks through her colors and makes statements with her techniques,” Jaquilya White said.

Through NYAM, Daria travelled to Minneapolis, Minnesota and attended the Nobel Peace Prize Forum. She was inspired by Gabby Giffords, a member of Congress from Arizona who advocates for gun control after she was shot in the head, but thankfully survived.

Daria said she’ll miss teachers Ms. Mark, Mr. Ochoa, Ms. Russo and Ms. Schmidt, as well as her group of great friends: Santiago Valero, Natalia Holguin, Nicole Espinoza, Elise Guillen, Agape Alfaro, Noah Garcia and Taeha Cione.

S

teven Nunez had a good year. He was elected senior class president in the fall and in the spring he won the Student Journalist of the Year award from the Scholastic Press Association of Chicago.

Throughout the year, he worked as editor-in-chief of the yearbook. He and Alina Qureshy led the staff in creating a very highquality book.

As he has done since his sophomore year,, Steven continued to contribute incredible photo journalism to the Steinmetz Star.

“I’m thankful for the opportunities Steinmetz gave me,” he said.

Steven joined several sports teams in his freshman through junior years, including the marathon team, cross county, basketball, volleyball and water polo. He was in MYP and IB until his senior year.

His favorite teachers are Ms. Schmidt, Mr. Roldan and Mr. Edwards.

“They helped me develop as a photographer and a person,” Steven said. “Ms. Schmidt is is like a second mom to me.”

Steven said that being senior class president wasn’t hard, what was hard was getting stuff approved.

“Being in charge of the yearbook was the hardest thing I’ve had to do because I had to tell other students what to and had to come early and stay late,” he said.

Yearbook teacher Renato Roldan said that Steven “is the most driven student I have met in a long time. He dedicated his life this year to the yearbook, the Star and other projects revolving around photography. There is no better photographer in the city than Steven.”

Steven is going to Columbia College to study photography.

“I’ll miss Steinmetz a lot, and I’ll definitely give back once I become big,” he said.

•

Teachers appreciated Daria’s work and drive.

“She is one of my best students,” Miguel Ochoa said. “She’s one of the kids that I won’t have to worry about after high school because I know she has strong work ethic.”

The Star had some questions for Daria.

What is your advice for the underclassmen?

Don’t mess up, go to class and don’t be a hall rat. You’re going to regret it all later.

How should students spend their free time?

Study for class, focus on college and focus on hobbies you love to do.

What is your least favorite memory?

Dissecting a frog and pig.

Did you have any regrets while you attended school?

I regret not getting a job earlier and not starting college applications earlier.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

I call myself the crazy guinea pig lady. I have five pigs, Smore who is two years old, Brownie who is one year old, Reeses, who is four months and two rescued pigs Vanilla and Elizabeth who are about two or three years old. In the future I don’t want children, I want guinea pigs.

•

May - June 2018 Steinmetz Star 13

Photos and layout by Steven Nunez

14

14  Steinmetz Star May - June 2018

Star Prom

Star Prom

15

May - June 2018 Steinmetz Star 15

Star Seniors

16

Aja Williams

By Vinnie Rivera

By Kyiah Morris and Melanie Ordaz

By Tamara Johnson

S

A

A

tephany is a once-in-a-lifetime friend who will uplift you at your lowest times and encourage you to do what’s

best.

“I met Stephany sophomore year and she was such a energetic person,” Joselyn Lorenzo said. “I love the way she brings out the best in people. She is always there for me. She always has the right words to say to me when I’m feeling down and always supports me no matter what my decision is.”

Stephany plans to go to Triton and study criminal psychology. While she’s looking for a job this summer, she’ll continue babysitting her six-year-old sister, Nora Naomi, who just finished kindergarten. Stephany said she enjoys taking care of her.

For fun, she likes being with her family and friends. She likes all kinds of music, including trap and rap. Favorite artists include G-Eazy and Bad Bunny. Stephany likes Criminal Minds, CSI and Graceland on TV. At Steinmetz, journalism was her favorite class because “it’s easy and fun; you meet new people,” she said.

Her peers and teacher appreciated Stephany’s great attitude and consistently good work in journalism all year.

“At the beginning of the school year Stephany worked on an important story about her cousin who attended Stienmetz and recently passed,” teacher Sharon Schmidt said. “She handled that story so well and showed that she is a super journalist. I loved having her in class this year.”

Stephany’s most important part of high school was making good friends, especially Joselyn Lorenzo and Jovanny Sanchez.

Stephany is a loyal, humble and passionate person.

“I keep a positive attitude,” Stephany said. “I don’t like being down.”

•

lyanna Fontanilla is such a strong person and such a good student as well. She works after school at Bed, Bath and Beyond and studies hard.

At home she lives with her mom, stepdad, two step brothers, two sisters and her one brother and her dog, Zod, a Husky.

“My grades are mostly A’s and B’s,” Alyanna said. “I try to complete all my work as soon as possible. I just try to finish all my work because I go about with my own things.”

Her plans are to go to Wright College then transfer to UIC. She likes sales and marketing, and sees herself in real estate.

She’ll study business.

Many of her friends believe she is such a nice person. “Aly is a chill and nice person,” senior Steven Nunez said.

After school, she works and takes care of Zod. She’s also a concert girl like going to Spring Awakening so she’s a party girl.

She is a relatable, normal girl, even though she has lived in a completely different part of the world.

She moved to the U.S. from Dubai, first living in Florida. She had to go through a lot in one year to get back on track for school. Most of her school credits didn’t go through, so she had to redo a year of high school. She was a senior in Dubai but a junior in the U.S. high school system.

In journalism class and on the Star staff, she was a standout.

“Throughout the school year, Alyanna reported important stories with curiosity and skill,” teacher Sharon Schmidt said. “I loved having her in class. She has a great personality, she’s smart and she’s a good worker.”

•

By Eliseo Reyes

ja Williams is a strong, successful student who maintained straight A’s her senior year.

“As a child I knew I was going to be successful,” she said. “I always questioned everything to get a better understanding of how things worked and why are they significant.

As I grew older I did the same thing just in school and by doing that it helped me get very far in life.”

Aja’s favorite teachers at Steinmetz were Mr. Bagdonas, Ms. Perez and Ms. Schmidt.

“I loved having Aja in journalism,” Ms. Schmidt said. “She did a wonderful job with every assignment. A lot of students slack off; but she doesn’t. I’m sure that her college teachers will also notice and appreciate her excellent work.”

She participated in the ASM program, the Beat. She worked at McDonalds and Sears, now at Dunkin Donuts.

A favorite memory of Steinmetz was Six Flags Great America Grad Nite on May 4.

“My high school experience consisted of meeting a lot of new people, learning new information and stepping outside of my comfort zone,” she said.

She loves her friends Tiyun, Cari, Briana, and Katera. She said her mom keeps her motivated and helps her whenever she needs it.

She plans to go to Malcolm X College to major in dental hygiene. When she finishes there, she wants to transfer to Southern Illinois University (SIU), Carbondale.

Aja is an energetic person and a dancer.

Some of her favorites include the restaurant Pete’s Red Hots, the play Romeo and Juliet, the movies Love and Hip Hop and Death at a Funeral and baby powder (to sample, for her strange addiction). One day she’d like to visit New York City.

•

Karla Aguilar

•

By Joel Perdomo

Y Photo by Erika Carresco

K

16 Steinmetz Star May - June 2018

J

ose Plaza is a gentle, friendly person, appreciated by many.

“Jose is very introspective and a deep thinker,” teacher Miguel Ochoa said. “College will be great for him and he will fit in just fine. He just needs to pick his passion and move forward.”

Jose said he was grateful to have Mr. Ochoa as a teacher.

“He helped me when I was going through a rough time and I was able to talk to him to express my feelings,” Jose said. “Thanks to him I’m a changed man.”

Antonio Sanchez said Jose is always helpful toward others.

“He’s always going to say something goofy, but whenever his friends need him he’s there to hear you out and help out when he can,” Antonio said. “He even helps out friends he hasn’t seen in years.”

Jose’s favorite activities at Steinmetz were the Gaming Club, when he was a freshman, and the Recycling Club his senior year.

“My favorite game of all time is WCW/ nWo Revenge, a professional wrestling video game for the Nintendo 64 game console,” he said. “I remember playing the game for hours on end and completing the story mode in about two hours.”

Jose said that after graduation he’ll miss friends and teachers.

“I’m going to miss my friends because they’re the people who were with me all these years going through hell and back, and I will miss the teachers for all the help and all that they have taught me all four years,” he said.

“I had many friends but I am especially grateful for Eliseo Reyes, Adrian Paz and Antonio Sanchez. Because they’ve been there for me through it all regardless of what happened and I thank you guys for it.”

Yanarie Martinez

By Yanarie Martinez arla Aquilar is mostly known for her three years in swimming and four years in water polo. She was co-captain of the swim team with Luz Herrera during their senior year.

“She’s number two in the pool, but number one in our hearts,” Luz said.

Karla also participated in the SCORE program.

“At first I started doing it because I wanted to get my attendance percentage up, but then I found it to be really fun with my friends,” said Karla. Many people appreciate Karla’s outgoing personality.

“I met her through her love for water polo,” security guard Marcelo Rosa said. “She used to walk past me everyday for practice and that is how we began to talk. I can tell she genuinely loves water polo she even gets mad when she can’t play in a game.

“I can also tell that she’s nice and a sweet person by the way she acts around and with others. I like the fact that she feels comfortable

Jose Plaza

Photo by Frank Cabrera

Photo by Frank Cabrera

Photo by Millie Martinez

Alyanna Fontanilla

Photo by Frank Cabrera

Stephany Casillas

talking to me about things in her life. Oh, yeah, and she’s also always offering me food so that’s a good thing.”

Karla wants to be a special needs therapist.

She was inspired to do this as a profession after working with her cousin Denzel, who is 11 years old and has autism. She is basically raising him, teaching him everything from the ABC’s to potty training him, taking him to the park and spending all her free time babysitting, which she enjoys a lot.

•

anarie Martinez is an intelligent person with an excellent sense of humor.

“She will always make you laugh no matter what type of day you’re having,” said senior Sofia Velazquez.

Yanarie has been a part of the JROTC program for all of her four years at Steinmetz. She has a part time job at Cinnabon where she’s worked her way up to a supervisor.

She is going to go to Truman Community College for cosmetology and for business.

She has stood out at Steinmetz for her strong attitude and self-confidence.

“A memorable time for me was when I had my hair a lot of different colors,” Yanarie said. “That’s how a lot of people knew who I was.”

Even though she has a reputation as a bit of a troublemaker, those in authority still see her great qualities.

“She’s a very unique person who is always

receptive to advice I give her,” security guard Anselmo Chaperro (Al) said. “She’s smart, funny and a troublemaker, but she knows how to get away with things. I know she was raised properly because she is always respectful and kind, except when she’s angry.”

When asked about her most embarrassing moment at Steinmetz, Yanarie replied: “I have never felt embarrassed here. I have always been able to laugh things off that happened to me.”

•

Star Seniors Stephanie Pravinchandra

Katera Goldman

Eliseo Reyes

Photo by Millie Martinez

Alma Nunez

17

By Aja Williams

By Daria Velazquez

I

f you ever meet senior Alma Nunez, you might only see someone who is very shy and keeps to herself, but once you know her you’ll see a very strong individual who had to overcome starting over in an entirely new school.

“It was really tough for me,” Alma said.

“I didn’t want to transfer since it was my last year of high school.”

Alma originally attended Von Steuben Metropolitan High School, where she participated in the Robotics club, building and programming robots. This hobby would lead her into being interested in mechanics and a growing love for building things.

“I actually plan on becoming an architect,” Alma said. “My dream is to become an architect and build my own house.”

Alma plans on attending Wilbur Wright College after high school, and from there, to transfer into Illinois Institute of Technology to pursue her career.

Aside from building robots, Alma also likes to participate in sports; she tried out for the girl’s basketball team back at Von Steuben, but she didn’t like the environment too much so she quit.

Yet, after attending Steinmetz she decided to try again when senior Chiya Loyd invited her to join track team.

“Alma is an amazing person,” Chiya said. “She’s funny, has great hair, and in track, she is a superstar.”

Ever since joining track, Alma has met good people who support her just like Chiya. This experience taught her to become much more social and open up to others.

“She has bloomed into the butterfly she is now,” Chiya said.

Journalism teacher Sharon Schmidt has also had good experiences when it came to Alma in her class, which includes Alma’s writing and creating a drawing for her newspaper story about pets.

“She is an impressive person – intelligent and hard working,” Ms. Schmidt said. “Her work ethic is excellent and she catches onto new things quickly; Alma was a great addition to Steinmetz.”

•

Vinnie Rivera

By Stephany Casillas

V

innie Rivera is an outgoing person with a passion for music, obsessed with Ariana Grande “Vinnie is a great student,” music teacher Anna Lesniakowski said.

He has good luck as he listens to the radio. He’s won concert tickets and prizes more than 10 times by calling the station when they have special offers.

By Jasmin Vides

K

atera Goldman, the 5’1, red haired, energetic and outgoing vice president of the senior class, is someone to admire.

She’s an awesome person with an amazing personality.

She was involved in many activities in school such as National Honor Society, Trio, cheerleading, After School Matters, peer mentoring for freshmen and the school shooting protest. Katera’s life outside of school is also fast paced.

“I’m here for a good time, not a long time.”

Katera said She works at Chipotle, up to 70 hours every two weeks. She goes on family vacations monthly and she takes care of her siblings, all seven of them.

Katera is a very caring person; she helps her friends and family out whenever they ask. Honestly, she never told me no. She always makes things happen for me.

“Katera is one of my good friends,” senior Kyiah Morris said. “She always makes sure I’m having a good day and makes sure I’m happy.

You’d be happy to have her as a friend.”

She is the life of the party; everywhere she goes she gives off a lot of positive energy and good vibes. One memorable event I have with her is Homecoming. Katera won Homecoming Queen and made sure everyone had a good time with her good energy and awesome dance moves.

She’s an excellent student. Classmates and teachers appreciate her having her in class.

“It has been an absolute pleasure having Katera in our IB Programme and in my TOK class,” teacher Nancyanne Ferraini said. “I have seen Katera grow up throughout the IB Programme, and I am delighted by the thoughtful, deliberate and respectful young lady she has become.

“I was lucky to be her extended essay advisor, and I enjoyed discussing her analysis and conclusions. As vice-president of the senior class, Katera has demonstrated great leadership and responsibility. Katera has maintained very impressive commitments over the years, from IB courses, to a demanding work schedule, to meaningful extracurricular activities, and she truly has excelled in all she has pursued.

While I will miss Katera’s participation in our IB Programme, I look forward to all she will accomplish.”

•

Vinnie doesn’t let anyone disrespect him; he’s very intimidating. He’s one of a kind. In class, he’s crazy and loud.

“Vinnie is loud, funny and overly dramatic,” Karla Aguilar said.

He is well known and popular at Steinmetz.

“You will see me on TV someday,” Vinnie said.

•

By Jose Plaza and Monica Marroquin

S

tephanie Pravinchandra (at right) is a beautiful person, who has a bright future ahead of her. She’s planning on attending Harold Washington this fall and will major in psychology. It all started her junior year when she took a psychology class with Ms. Buckmaster that’s how she knew that she wanted to pursue her career being a psychologist.

“I love this girl,” Paula Buendia said.

“She never fails to put a smile on my face whenever I’m feeling down.”

Her friend Lesly Herrera said that Stephanie is so caring: “One time I lost my bus card and Stephanie gave me money to get home.”

The Star interviewed Stephanie.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

I see myself with my bachelor’s degree in psychology and working with people help them better themselves.

What is the best advice you would give to incoming freshman?

To take school seriously, although it may not feel like a big deal at the time, it still affects your GPA and future in the long run.

Greatest accomplishments?

Ever since freshman year, I got A’s and B’s.

What did you hate about high school?

How long the days were I feel that days could’ve been shorter than 7 and a half hours.

What do you feel that you could’ve done better in high school?

I could have tried harder with being involved in class and group assignments.

What are you most thankful for?

I am thankful that I actually liked high school because it made time go by faster.

What did high school teach you?

Independence, because we have to depend on ourselves when getting our work done and turning it in on time.

Which teacher will you miss most?

Mr. Ochoa, because he would make it his priority that we did our work and got things done, but he still knew how to be a friend.

What did you do in your spare time?

No clubs or sports, but I did work at TJ Maxx for a while, that kept me busy. Also, I hung out with my best friend Paula. We’ve been friends since freshman year.

E

liseo Reyes is a very quiet, observant person and a friendly soul, who has been a big help to students and appreciated by staff.

“He has a quirky sense of humor that’s hidden behind a very quiet demeanor,” teacher Jennifer Bates said.

While he won’t be graduating in June, eventually he plans to attend Northeastern.

This year at Steinmetz College Prep he spent his many weekends volunteering at the Saturday SCORE program activities.

“I wanted to help the community,” Eliseo said. He likes Steinmetz, which is close to his home, but not the uniform. “It’s dumb that they added khakis and polos.”

He is laid back and does the things he needs to do. He’s a standout, not a basic person.

“Eliseo is a good friend,” said Jairo Bravo, a fellow video gamer. “He is very caring.”

He has been an influence for many, as a friend and as a brother figure.

“He’s a very chill and quiet friend,” David Delgado said. “He has a small group of friends that he talks to and he’s very humble.”

“Eliseo is like a brother to me,” Edvin Rodas said. “He’s a very funny friend who’s always there for you when you’re down and need to vent to someone.”

The Star interviewed Eliseo.

What was your favorite toy as a kid?

I remember having a Nintendo GameBoy and playing Pokemon Leafgreen. I beat it after three months, which was a pretty cool achievement when I was like eight years old.”

What was your favorite class?

I enjoyed most of my classes but my favorite class was Studio Drawing junior year.

It was a class that I could really relax in and be able to have peace of mind.

Who were you grateful to meet?

I was really grateful for all my teachers, but I was especially grateful for Mr. Ochoa and Ms. Russo, as this year when I was going through very troubling times they supported me greatly whenever I needed it.

Advice for new freshman to Steinmetz?

Keep going no matter how hard it gets. I have experienced an emotional rollercoaster while here, but at the end of the day this is too valuable to give up on.

•

•

Melanie Ordaz

By Alyanna Fontanilla

M

elanie Ordaz is one of the most unusual people her friends have

ever met.

Her outgoing and positive vibe makes her an easy person to talk to.

She loves to sing. Melanie participated in the Steinmetz concerts sponsored by teacher Anna Lesniakowska.

“Melanie’s like an over-joyed puppy,” her friend Monica Marroquin said. “She’s pretty much just happy about anything.”

She is going to Wright College for the first two years, with plans to continue at Columbia College and major in fashion design.

Teachers appreciate Melanie.

“She is a beautiful, kind young woman, with much enthusiasm for life and classroom activities,” teacher Sharon Schmidt said.

“I love her smile and friendly attitude.”

•

May - June 2018 Steinmetz Star 17

Star Seniors

18

Alma Carmona

Elizabeth Patino

Rosalinda Diaz

Photo by Frank Cabrera

Jaqueline De Santiago

By Eli Patino

By Rosalinda Diaz

J

A

acky De Santiago is a very happy person, who had a great experience at Steinmetz. ‘’School was very fun experience, but at the same time stressful,” she said. “I went through it with a lot of support from my family and friends.’’

Jacky loves reading and English classes. ‘“My favorite subject is journalism, because it helps me correct my grammar,” she said.

Teacher Sharon Schmidt first had Jacky as a sophomore.

“She was one of my favorites because she was so nice, an excellent student, and she wasn’t crazy (like most sophomores),” Ms. Schmidt said.

Jacky likes to eat sushi. If she’s not with her friends, they’re bored. She’s great to be with on “girls nights.” She’s been there for her friends. Parents appreciate her respectful attitude.

She is going to Triton College.

“She is a very smart, determined person who gets things done on time and cares about everyone,” her friend Alma Carmona said. “She has been there for me whenever I needed her. She makes my days, because of how funny she is. She the life of the party. It’s not the same when she’s not here.”

I love you, Jacky. You will forever be my great friend from high school and elementary. Thanks for being there when I needed you and how you told me not to give up in anything and I put my effort in everything just to make everything and everyone happy like my great friends. Te quiero mucho como me dices “la vida sigue.”

Te quiero muchisimo. Amigas por siempre.

Jennifer Gamboa

•

By Jaqueline De Santiago

lma Carmona has been my friend since freshman year. That might not seem like a long time, but it sure feels

like it.

One of Alma’s main priorities is school.

She makes sure all her tasks are done on time. She is reliable, very committed and likes to participate in activities, groups and clubs. She’s been in JROTC all her fours years of high school and has been a part of the OneGoal program since her junior year.

She is very friendly, outgoing, easy to communicate with, trustworthy and is always there when you need her. She gives advice when you need help.

The Star interviewed Alma.

What year has been your toughest?

My freshmen year was my toughest year.

It was a new environment and I hung out with the wrong people. Second semester is when I got it together.

What advice would you give to incoming freshman?

Stay focused. Don’t get side tracked by the negative people who won’t help you in your future.

What class do you enjoy the most?

Communication 101. It helped me get over being shy in public speaking. It also help me with eye contact and being louder when presenting.

•

J

ennifer Gamboa is funny, beautiful, outgoing and wise.

She’s also there for her friends, no matter the situation; she always backs them up. Jenny and Luz Herrera met 15 years ago in elementary school. They’ve been friends since then.

Jenny is outgoing and fun. She wants to travel a lot and she loves the forest, where she goes in her free time.

She’s open to anything. School, family and religion make her the person she is.

Monica Marroquin

M

onica Marroquin is a student with attitude.

She won’t let you walk all over her. She keeps her guard up.

Monica’s four years of high school were bumpy, but the same as elementary.

“No big difference,” she said, except some conflicts. “I got suspended three times one for fighting, ditching and uniform.’’

Her opinion on school uniforms is one that everyone can relate to: “The uniforms are retarded. They should’ve kept them the way they were freshman year.”

Monica views the security staff not as enemies, but as people to confide in. She

said, “They are pretty cool and understanding for the most part. My favorite is Al because he got me of trouble countless times.”

In the future, Monica wants to pursue a career in teaching, but only certain age groups, 1st to 5th grade.

Alondra Ortiz has been friends with Monica since freshman year. At first they didn’t like each other: “We mugged each other in first period,” Alondra said. She said Monica’s is the same inside and outside of school. She is real, 24/7.

If someone gives her attitude, she won’t hold back on speaking her mind. She said, “Monica’s attitude is overboard and openminded”

18 Steinmetz Star May - June 2018

•

She likes to help people see the things that are more important than other things that don’t matter.

She helps others see that they can be their own persons, that they don’t have to take orders from anybody.

She doesn’t view others negatively; she tries to just watch and see what kind of people they are. She keeps things real. “I try to not be a hypocrite, but that would be wrong for me to say, because we all are at some point,” she said.

If she tells you to not take crap from other people she’s not going tell you that and act the same way as other people, because she would just be doing the same.

Her goals for college are pre-med and then medical school. She plans on staying in Chicago. Her long-term plan is to be a neurologist.

By Alondra Ortiz

By Kathryn Rssas

E

lizabeth, also known as Eli, has grown into a very hard working student.

“She isn’t just a person that used to get into a lot of drama, but she changed,” her friend Alma Carmona said. “She decided to start getting focused in school and start getting educated.”

Eli said high school was rough because “people come and go,” but senior year was great.

“I have great friends who I appreciate a lot,” she said. “I’m very thankful to meet them.”

To keep her grades up Elizabeth went to after school tutoring. She said her teachers motivated her. Journalism and JROTC were her favorite classes.

“The best part of being at Steinmetz was all these great teachers,” she said.

“I’m happy that they had the tutoring after school. It was very helpful.”

This summer, before she begins college at Wright, she will be travelling to Mexico.

“I’m very excited to go visit my family,” she said. “I care a lot about them.

I’m excited to be back to my motherland. I’m very excited to graduate and see what life has for me.”

•

•

By Karla Aguilar Sanchez

L

By Alma Carmona

R

osalinda Diaz is a very smart, caring person. She is determined to do well and achieve her goals, especially since becoming a mom to baby Lionel (Lio) on March 22 “This experience made me feel very strong and brave,” Rosalinda wrote in her journal. She was out of school for about six weeks.

After a few weeks she noted the changes in Lio, which happen quickly with newborns.

“He grows and changes and does new things everyday,” she wrote. “He’s starting to stay up longer in the mornings and starting to eat more. At one month and a week, it feels like it was just yesterday that he was born. He is doing good and growing a lot.”

In another entry Rosalinda wrote that she was also doing well herself, “enjoying him in the week left with him,” before she returned to school on May 8.

“He is starting to smile more often and sleep more at night,” she wrote. “He doesn’t really cry that much unless he’s hungry or he gets scares. He’s gotten so big. I’m trying to enjoy him before he grows up fast.”

Friends and teachers know Rosalinda is going to be big in life.

“She was very motivated to figure things out; she has always cared about her grades and about her learning,” teacher Justin Everage said. “In the future it seems she will be a very dedicated mother. She will make sure that her family is taken care of.”

She has never failed to make her friends laugh on a bad day or be there for them when in need.

“She’s a very honest person and very smart; I think she’ll become a great person in life,” Elizabeth Patino said.

“She’s very friendly and open-minded about everything,” Jaqueline Desantiago said.

•

Luz Herrera

uz Herrera is described as a big mouth, overly dramatic, funny, sarcastic girl. Many consider her one of the funniest people they know.

Luz is always coming up with funny stuff to say, like “on baby frog legs” and “mica moca.”

She is a swimmer and water polo player. Luz was given the “Golden Arm” award in her sophomore year of water polo.

She was co-captain of the swim team her senior year. Luz was manager for the boys and girls swim team and was in ASM lifeguarding.

In addition to sports and spending time with friends and family, she has a job at Cinnabon and was in the ASM build a bag program.

She hopes to become a ultrasound technician in the future.

Luz hates chocolate and strawberries and the purple Dorito bag.

Luz has made very strong bonds throughout high school and will be remembered by many staff members and friends.

“Luz is a sweetheart,” said Oskar Tytula, her best friend. “She always cares about people more than herself, always looks out for you and is always there. Luz means a lot to me, picks me up when am down and helps me when I need her.”

Luz’s favorite teacher was Christopher Javier because he never gave up on her. Mr. Javier described Luz as “sensitive, loyal and fierce. I like Luz a lot because she’s committed to people; she demands a lot from people but also gives back, which I love.”

•

Star Seniors Chyia Loyd

By Alma Nunez

Emily Gonzalez

C

•

Katherinne Garcia

E

mily Gonzales is an intelligent and hard working person. She’s someone who likes to have straight A’s because she’s very competitive.

“At first I was scared; I thought high school was going to be hard, but then as the days passed I’ve found them really easy,” Emily said.

As an English language learner, Emily had some struggles, but she made it to where she wanted. Now she doesn’t regret the effort she put into practicing English every night.

When Emily has a doubt on something she struggles to find an answer and to believe it. Her teachers can easily see her great effort.

“Emily is determined, a successful student and a hard working student,” teacher Michelle Mottram said. “Also very sweet.”

Students also see Emily’s great qualities.

“She is shy, but outgoing when it comes to being around with her friends,” Patricia Abrigunda said. “She’s a hard working student in class; she makes sure she gets everything done.

She’s a good listener. She motivates people to meet their goals. She’s very smart and has a kind heart and will always help others before herself. Emily is a great student here at Steinmetz . Not only is she wonderful, she is also a good role model.”

Emily’s plans are to go to Wright College for two years until she transfers to a four-year school. She wants to study business.

Kassandra Cano

By Victor Hernandez assandra Cano transferred to Steinmetz from the charter school ITW David Speer Academy. Coming into a new school senior year is hard and doing well academically is really impressive.

“She is a good student, quiet and she gets her work done on time, her attendance could be a little better,” teacher Jason Mink said.

“She’s dedicated to her school work as well as learning. I believe she was a great addition to the class. I’m glad I had her as a student.”

I could see this in journalism class as well.

She gets her work done and is fairly quiet.

I glad I was able to interview her and from there we became friends and turns out she’s a fun person to hang around. She has a good personality and sense of humor.

She plans to go to Wright for the first two years then transfer to a university.

Kassandra’s friend Anthony Rodriguez said Kassandra is “smart, but at the same time real goofy.”

•

By Stephanie Pravinchandra

K

atherinne Garcia is an introverted person who likes to dance, eat, sleep, and spend time with her friends. She is known for being a good student and having extraordinary behavior. She is an A and B student.

“At first I thought high school was going to be hard, but as years passed I’ve known a lot of amazing people,” Katherinne said. “It’s been a good journey.”

As an English language learner, Katherinne faced a lot of obstacles, yet she decided to make the best out of her high school years.

Many teachers appreciate having Katherinne in their classes.

“Katherinne is independent, strong, smart, organized, and she is also a leader,” teacher Miguel Ochoa said.

Students know her for being caring and always being there. Not only is she a great student, but she is also an amazing friend.

“Katherinne is a good friend; she is nice, sweet, happy, generous and outgoing,” senior Cintia Flores said. “She is always there for me and I can count on her.”

Katherinne plans to go to Wilbur Wright College to get an associate’s degree in dentistry.

•

Victor Hernandez

By Jennifer Gamboa

A

fter having class with Alondra Ortiz all year I can honestly say that I have always just seen the quiet girl, but after speaking with her and some of her peers I know that so much more lies beneath.

“She always helps other people and motivates them,” senior Ricardo Guzman said.

“When they think they can’t do it she always motivates them because if she can do it, then why can’t they?”

Alondra likes flag football and “the adrenaline rush it gives you,” she said. She plans to major in criminology in college.

“Ever since I was a little girl it has just always called my attention,” Alondra said.

“My dream is to one day work in the field as an FBI agent.”

They say silence speaks volumes, but this is far from true when it comes to Alondra. It’s impossible to know from her quiet exterior that she has made a positive impact on many people’s lives.

“She’s a mother figure to her little sisters, sometimes they’ll accidentally call her mom,” Ricardo said. “She’s just overall a good person who helps others in a positive way.”

•

J

asmin Vides is an intelligent young woman. She works hard to reach her goals and has big dreams ahead of her.

She will begin at Triton Community College to pursue a career in nursing.

“Jasmine is a great person,” Lesly Herrera said. “She’s a very hardworking and motivated person. She stays true to herself, no matter what she goes through or faces.”

The Star interviewed Jasmin.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

I see myself having my own apartment with two dogs and working as a nurse at a hospital.

What’s your favorite memory from high school?

The pep rally freshman year because I didn’t know anybody and after that people started knowing me.

What are your accomplishments?

Senior year I got straight A’s for the first time.

What will you miss most?

My friends, Lesly Herrera and Ellena Pflugradt, because I know after high school things won’t be the same. We’ll all be in college experiencing our own things.

What are you looking forward to the most after graduation?

Fulfilling my dreams and becoming a nurse.

•

Alondra Ortiz

•

K

Jasmin Vides

By Emily Gonzales

By Katherinne Garcia

hiya Loyd is mostly a serious person with a strong personality. She is also spiritual, energetic and intelligent, and has been working hard every year to achieve her goals.

With her positive atmosphere, Chiya is someone who would support you and make you feel good about yourself. While getting to know her, you will see that she is someone who is easy to talk to and be comfortable.

Chiya isn’t afraid to say whatever is on her mind.

“Her personality is as strong as her physical strength.” senior Daria Velazquez said.

Chiya participated on the cheerleading team since her freshman year as a base and back spot. She became captain her senior year.

Since freshman year Chiya has been in JROTC, which helped her get a completely free ride to Northern Illinois University. At first she was considering majoring psychology then enlisting in the Army as an Officer 2nd Lieutenant, She wants to be an MP, military police in the Army and serve active duty.

Chiya changed her plans and decided not to go to NIU this fall. She enlisted in the Army and will start basic training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina on August 7.

Throughout her four years in JROTC Chiya worked hard. She was Battalion Commander her junior year and Executive Officer her senior year. “I feel that [her Number 1 rank] is well deserved,” Sergeant Cornel Davis said.

Chiya has many qualities that has made her noticed her peers and staff.

“I like that she always thinks about others before herself,” Sergeant Davis said. He described her in three words: “Energetic, determined and committed.”

Chiya has been in track and field for three years as a thrower and sprinter, receiving a medal in her first year for a 4x200 meter relay. She also participated in other activities such as JROTC staff, Drill Team, PT and Color Guard.

She likes to read, her favorite book being “Then There Were None” by Agatha Christine. “I also like to run at 4 a.m. on Saturdays when I have time,” she said.

Journalism teacher Sharon Schmidt appreciated Chiya’s outspokenness: I first met Chiya when she gave me a scathing letter to the editor during her sophomore year. She was rightly offended by the bad behavior of a Steinmetz faculty member. While we didn’t publish her work because we don’t call out individuals in the Star like that, her analysis impressed me for its thoughtfulness and very clear description of demeaning classroom behavior by a teacher.

One of the great things about Chiya is her BS detector. She notices subpar work by those who should do better, adults and students alike.

She demands excellence of herself and wishes it for others. While I’ve appreciated Chiya’s tellit-like-it-is communication style, there is more to her than just being a truth-teller. She also is an encourager, whose praise for others (when it happens) is genuine and meaningful. Her smile and beauty and sense of humor are amazing, as is her use of the word “amazing.”

19

By Kassandra Cano

V

ictor participated in several activities including the Chicago City Science Fair, basketball, soccer and volleyball.

“I really appreciated my coaches because they always supported me and pushed me to do better because they wanted to see me succeed,” he said.

He is an energetic and goofy person.

“Victor is outgoing and funny,” his friend Katherinne Garcia said.

He said “a memorable moment for me during high school was the last game for volleyball freshman year, it was the conference championship.” He also had a very embarrassing moment. He said “ I spilled all the barbeque sauce during lunch.”

Victor plans to attend Northern Illinois University and major in business and engineering.

One of his biggest motivations in high school was his dad.

“He always provided for me and his family because he had such a hard childhood,” Victor said. “He inspires me to be a better person.”

•

May - June 2018 Steinmetz Star 19

Star Seniors

20

International Baccalaureate (IB) Class of ‘18

Receiving the Golden Apple Scholarhip

Continued from Page 7

By Elise Guillen

•

Photo by Steven Nunez

I

have always loved learning and my education.

My mom tells me that I was eager to go to preschool while she wanted me to stay home and still be her baby. When I was in the kindergarten I was asked what I wanted to be when I grew up and to draw a picture of it; I drew myself as a teacher.

It’s crazy to me at such a young age that I had this fondness of going to school and education and I was just being introduced to it all.

As time went on, I considered different career paths and I became less interested in school and more with my friends. I grew to hate math and became less interested in a lot of aspects of school. But I still retained an interest and a curiosity about the world around me that a part of me still longed for knowledge and a desire to be taught it.

Eventually, I fully gained it back and really acknowledged that I loved to learn and a part of me loved school.

Since then, it’s only grown more and more. Don’t get me wrong, there are some subjects that I just don’t get, but when I look at my education as a whole I appreciate it deeply because it’s not something everyone has access to and it’s quite a special privilege to get one.

Although I have a deep appreciation, there is no denying that I am not a perfect student and that there are days where I just want to curl up in a ball and never go to school again. It’s not a perfect system and it can be quite stressful, but what gets me through are my teachers.

Teachers have always been important to me and I idolize so many of my teachers that I don’t know who I’d be without encountering them. Knowing how much I value teachers and my education led me back to a career path that I considered since I was five.

I applied for and received the Golden Apple scholarship, which helps aspiring teachers financially through college and also with teaching them skills and methods in summer institutes to become an educator.

I am so happy that I got it. I know how much it will help me through college and in my journey in becoming an educator. By being a teacher, hopefully I’ll be able to pass on an appreciation and love for an education. Even if students don’t learn prescribed material from school, I hope people realize that there many things to take away from education.

As I transition into college, I am sad to leave Steinmetz. But I know that my time here is done and there are new opportunities to be found in college.

As someone who has a deep appreciation for learning and loves being a student, going to college is such an honor since I get to continue my education. College is where I’ll be doing a lot more learning on so many things I am passionate about and will prepare me for my career.

I can’t wait to learn how to be a teacher.

Elise Guillen

Continued from Page 7

Hans Sabado

IB was a major factor of Hans’ high school career. He spoke about some positives aspects of the program, including how being in IB boosts the grade point average. All the freshman and sophomore classes are on a five-point scale and the junior and senior classes are on a six-point scale.

Teacher and IB director Nancyanne Ferrarini is another positive Hans said.

“She is the mom of IB,” because she makes sure the all the students are doing well with their classes and aren’t failing. He added, “I don’t know if others have the luxury of someone doting on them and making sure that everyone is doing their work.”

IB has its negative points to students. Hans recalled that there were three IB classes during his freshman year, but now there’s only one.

As a result, IB students see how many students leave but very few come in.

Something that many students might not know is that IB doesn’t offer many class choices.

“I didn’t know we could pick classes until sophomore year because IB chooses the classes for you,” he said. “Junior year was the first time I got to choose a class. Instead of taking art, I was able to choose ITGS.” Hans mentioned a few other drawbacks to IB. Some classes were really rushed as a result of preparing for the IB exams. Sometimes being in IB stops you from changing as a person since other students only get to see one side of you. Arguments have continued in IB at times without resolution because there’s no cooling off period since IB students are stuck with the same class schedule.

Overall, even though there are downsides, such as IB creating a lot of work, many of its students can agree that it helps prepare students for college.

Hans’ future plans consist of going to Wright College.

“Initially I wanted to go to University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign (UIUC), but it didn’t add up financially,” he said. He plans on spending two years at Wright and then will most likely transfer out to UIUC. He’s interested in either going into the medical field or becoming a lawyer.

Hans looks up to 2018’s salutatorian,

20 Steinmetz Star May - June 2018

Miguel Viruet. “Miguel does all of his work, he’s organized and he’s someone I’d like to be like,” Hans said.

He will miss his Japanese class taught by teacher Michelle Cross because of how fun it was, his friends Steffin, Eryk, Miguel, Henry, Axel and sometimes Pawl, when he didn’t leave lunch early, and the entire IB senior class, which was like a family.

The Star had some questions for Hans.

What is your advice for underclassmen?

If you get the chance, take dual enrollment classes because it boosts up your GPA and gives you college credits. Try to keep good relationships with teachers because they’re there to help you. Make sure to enjoy everyday because the stress will pile up if you let it get to you. Try to find one good thing everyday.

What about free time?

I think any chance you get, hang out with friends. Once you graduate there will be some friends you won’t be able to talk to as much.

It’s going to be difficult because some people won’t have time. Some will be out of state.

One missing homework assignment is worth hanging out with friends because you can always make it up in the future.

What is your least favorite memory?

Freshman year, it was the first day of school. We were in the mods and none of the classrooms or bathrooms had labels. So when I went to the bathroom there were no urinals so I thought hey, maybe both bathrooms are like this. Nope, I saw pink shoes walk by and I ran straight out of there.

Also, back in sophomore year I missed school for like a week and I had to take a day off just to catch up with all the work. For the rest of the year I didn’t understand anything in Ochwat’s class because no one could really explain what was going on.

Did you have any regrets while you attended school?

Not joining ASM; it would’ve been nice to learn something new.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

Warning to juniors becoming seniors: make sure your grades are up first semester because senioritis is real. First semester I had all A’s and one B, but now I have only one A.

•

“In IB you miss out on meeting a lot of people, but because of certificate I was able to meet people out of IB,” she said. The schedule that Elise had this year was the best one she had in four years.

“I loved all of my classes,” she said. Elise was glad to have Robin Russo be her Shakespeare teacher and Abel Pereyra for APES. Along with taking IB classes, Elise was able to participate in extracurricular activities such as newspaper, poetry club and National Honor Society (NHS). She attempted to balance everything, but it was difficult to put time towards school, clubs or even trying to take a break. “That’s a big reason why I didn’t go to poetry,” she said.

Education has played a huge role in Elise’s life, along with teachers. She’ll definitely miss many of them since she’ll be going away for college.

“I’ll miss Ms. Mark, for always getting on us to do our best,” she said.” It can be annoying, but it’s funny since at the end of the day, she just wants us to do out best.” Elise said she misses Mr. Foster and she’ll miss Ms. Cross putting a smile on her face. Other teachers she mentioned were Ms. Schmidt, Ms. Jotwani, Ms. Doyle, Ms. Ferrarini and Ms. Russo. “I had a lot of mother figures who are strong and that I looked up to. I’ll miss them all and it sucks that it’s going to be difficult to visit them.”

It’s no surprise that Elise plans on becoming an English teacher in the future.

“Even though it’s basic, I genuinely love English. It’s always been my favorite class,” she said. She will be attending University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign this fall.

“I want to start preparing for college really soon. I’m kind of scared since this will be a big change, plus I’m leaving home, but I’m still really excited.”

The Star had some questions for Elise.

What is your advice for underclassmen?

I know we see high school as wanting to get it over with, but most of us go to high school once. Really take it in and do the most you can with it. It’s fine to have some regrets, but do your best to not have many.

Do the best that you can at school. It’s fine if you don’t know what you want to do, but start looking at what your passions are. To make high school a better experience, get to know yourself in order to find your purpose in life. Then you can find things that you might want to do.

What is your least favorite memory?

I got a D in math and that messed me up because it happened at the last minute.

There was nothing I could do about it and the teacher wouldn’t do anything to help. I remember going home that day and telling my friends how I felt like I didn’t deserve for that to happen. I did the work but the tests and the final I didn’t do so well on. I cried on the bus ride home, I didn’t mean to but it happened. What I learned is that you could have failures, but still be successful.

Did you have any regrets while you attended school?

Not working harder. I knew I could’ve put more effort, but it probably would’ve killed me. I don’t want to kill myself over anything if it’s not going to make me happy. Not talking to non IB students, not going to poetry club more. Even though I’d put myself out there, maybe I should’ve learned how to be a less nervous person.

Did you look up to anyone?

I looked up to the upperclassmen of each graduating class. I’d always look at the top people and the students who did activities.

I’d see cool individuals and see what made them special. It’s sad when some of them prove it be not true, though.

Continued on Page 21

Star Seniors

Marcos Estrada Continued from Page 7 The Star interviewed Marcos.

What in your past affected you?

Being born in Mexico. I am a resident now, but at one point I wasn’t. I’ve worked hard to be where I am. It’s still scary, though; it gives you perspective on what some people go through. You get perspective of people struggling. It also pushes me.

It makes me compete with others already from here, and it makes me want to beat them.

What are your dreams and goals?

Just to work hard to get to a place that I can be satisfied.

What do you enjoy doing out of school.

I like to paint or draw and sometimes play video games.

What did you enjoy most about high school?

The relationships built with IB classmates. How we saw each other grow and got closer throughout the four years. I was especially close to Ana Avila.

Once we were working on a painting in the hallway, and like always Ana and I disagreed on something, which caused her to stomp her foot on a paper tray with paint that was on the floor. This caused a huge mess leaving paint on the floor and a trail of her footsteps when she walked. Instead of staying mad when this happened, it just made us laugh and I will forever remember that moment.

•

Elise Guillen Continued from Page 20 What will you miss when miss when you go to college?

I’m going to miss the beauty of Chicago, my mom, my cat Allie, my best friends Ryan, Agape, Kyiah, Emelie, Jamara and classmates like Liana and Vince.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

I’m so curious about other people. I wish that other people could look at me as someone who’s smart and interesting. It’s something that I doubt about myself, that I’m not. Hopefully people see that in me.

There’s so much I want to learn in life and I see myself as someone who constantly wants to learn. I think that’s why education is so important to me.

•

21

Yahaira Villatora

Agape Alfaro

Continued from Page 13 “I hope I’ll remember a lot about high school,” she said.

One of Agape’s most shining moments was during her junior year and when she directed the school play, “Agatha Rex.” Agape was originally just an actor but after a lack of involvement, she had to step up to the plate to keep drama club alive. “ I never expected to do it,” she said. “I just wanted to give back to others because drama club has meant so much to me. It was stressful, but worth it.”

Agape was really amazed by her fellow club members for getting involved with something so time consuming and something that require so much hard work. Sadly, this year there was no school play since the drama club was unable to get a teacher sponsor.

Due to lack of activities, like the school play, Agape worries for Steinmetz .

“There’s so much more than academics happening,” she said. She sees school as more than just a learning space, but a place that should be filled with many other fun and safe spaces after school. Clubs are the best part of school for Agape. They were her main source of having fun.

“I want more people to get involved just for them to see how great it is,” she said.

Agape has created many memo-

Continued from Page 7

ries and friendships from being so involved that it upsets he, that not all students get the same opportunities as she did. The problem comes from their lack of involvement and with many clubs dying.

“Join a club” is Agape’s main piece of advice to underclassmen. Clubs are so influential to anyone who gets involved. They help shape people to be the individuals they are and are just as important as the things that happen in the classroom.

As for other advice, Agape highly encourages students to take Shakespeare class taught by Ms. Russo and journalism with Ms. Schmidt.

Agape also emphasizes being open minded, in school and in life. She also said it’s important to be open minded about teachers and to get to know them. Agape built many strong relationships with teachers over the years and relied on their wisdom and guidance.

“They’re so knowledgeable and do so much,” Agape said. “Teachers are interesting. Talk to them.”

People like Agape Alfaro are leaving a legacy at Steinmetz with all that they’ve done. It’s crucial that people like Agape are remembered and acknowledged for their motivation to be involved so others can be, too.

“Some students like me need special events, clubs and extra curricular activities, so please remember that and get involved,” she said.

•

“Anyone can do it,” she said. “When you do something you have to start strong and end strong.”

Yahaira’s motivation to work hard comes from her desire to succeed in the future. She always had that to look forward for and to work for it. She wants a bright future because of her family, many who were not able to receive a full education.

“I know you cannot be successful without an education.” Yahaira said. She has an appreciation for her education and knows it’ll give her the opportunities to succeed in life. “I just want what my family couldn’t have.” Yahaira won’t waste any oppurtunity to be successful.

Despite having this strong work ethic, Yahaira said, “I want to remember more than just my school work.” This mindset is why she believed rigorous programs, like the International Baccalaureate program, at Steinmetz, weren’t for her. She said she thought they really just add unnecessary stress.

Yahaira was able to be rank in the Top 10 of the Class of 2018 without being in IB, which is rare since IB classes are worth an extra GPA point. She shows that you can make your way to the top, as long as you work to your best ability.

Since IB students stay with the same circle of classmates all day, they’re disconnected from other students. Yahaira said that she really wishes she could have gotten to know more IB students during high school.

When speaking about teachers who have impacted her, Yahaira immediately said Colleen Walsh, who taught her as a freshman as well as a senior.

“Ms. Walsh is a teacher who has seen my growth in my time at Steinmetz,” Yahaira said. “I will miss her.”

Yahaira has valuable advice for others. Knowing all she’s accomplished, she is a good source and model to follow. She suggests the following for other students: • Create and maintain good relationships with your teachers; they’re really helpful.

• Don’t get off track. Start off strong freshmen year so you have that boost for the rest of high school.

Also, it just gets harder so take advantage of your freshman year.

• Get involved at school and find your talents and what you’re good at.Try and stay motivated and always do your classwork.

In addition to striving for success and working hard, Yahaira is creative and enjoys music and video games. She also loves adventures and prefers not to stay home.

“Everyone says how goofy and funny that I am that they don’t expect me to be ranked in the Top 10,” she said. Yahaira is a hard worker who still knows how to have fun and be herself. Her last piece of advice suggests these values: “Don’t be discouraged if you’re not Top 10 (or even top of anything in life), your personality is what is important in life.”

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May - June 2018 Steinmetz Star 21

Star Arts & Entertainment

22

Star poetry contest winners

By Alina Qureshy

By Jamara McGarry

My family loves a phantom

The sound of my room

My family loves a phantom They love the quiet me, the Gentle me, the studious me They love the girl who’s charming And happy, has never known a sad day

Thinking about the process of art.

How why you don’t like it.

My wall plastered with the sounds You must be my soul sista UNITY

I am a cracked gem, A shattered pearl. They Love the shiny facets; But they have never seen the cracks Underneath, the shine of the medicine cabinet mirror.

In protest I carry those tunes with me.

So when ever you see us He here the forbidden knowledge See this blackbird fly.

And here that we could be free & they hate it.

They hate when we walk into their offices.

Soldiers of love My black brothers Standing tall & speaking with their chest

She has never seen the way My faces flushes after meeting The gaze of a certain someone From across the room.

It is a strange thing to realize That the woman who gave birth To you, does not know you.

And that the people you Spend all your time with, Only know a part of you My friends have never seen me Speak my own language, i’ve Been shoving down the syllables For as long as I can remember.

In a sea of languages more common Than mine, I am silent.

They’ve never seen me Wear my culture either, Always too shy to wear my Traditions on my body For everyone to see I’m a girl of many parts, A jacket of many colors, Made of contradictions, Born of juxtaposition.

My life has been spent Partitioning my two lives, making Sure they don’t see the sides Of me that i keep under wraps, Hidden in plain sight.

Making sure they all only see the parts of me that are dust free, the cheerful facade, the shiny pearl, hoping they don’t notice the burnt and reeking ruins, the damaged bits hidden under dusty sheets; my ghosts.

But they are, after all, my ghosts, Piece and part of who am I? Puzzles piecing together my mystery.

Cracked, yes, but patched back together with little self sewn stitches.

I throw off the white sheets, and Embrace all of me.

•

Photo by Joel Perdomo

My mother has never seen me Be truly, freely happy, in the Way that you’re happy after A long night spent with friends

Congratulations to seniors Jennifer Pelot, Jamara McGarry, Jose Plaza and Alina Qureshy for receiving 1st Place certificates in the Steinmetz Star’s annual poetry contest. The contest is held in April, during National Poetry Month. Underclassmen winners include sophomores Kathryn Rosas and Davion White (pictured on Page One of this paper) and junior Angelique Ortiz. See their poems on our website at www.steinmetzstar.com.

“Poetry is a necessity of life. It is a function of poetry to locate those zones inside us that would be free, and declare them so. ” —C. D. Wright,, Academy of American Poets Chancellor

Anxiety

Your Hold On Me

There are times like now It’s hard to breathe, Hard to hold onto something good And hard to smile.

I have a monster holding my throat, Waiting for me to jerk away, So it can surely rip it out.

It comes when I’m completely alone.

No one there to help right away.

The one to take it away Has also opened its cage.

A wild tiger at my throat That is the true reason behind it today.

So much I wish to tell it, Just for it to let go But it’s holding my throat.

If I were to choke my way through it I know it would let go But I’m terrified of what it may do.

Will it decide to kill me anyway?

Or will it lay its giant paws On either side of me, Let out a purr, And cuddle me close.

I want so much for the latter But the fear of the unknown Keeps me at bay Until I draw a final breath And say it anyway.

An earnest grasp and desperate gasp Could not save me from myself, Could not save me from you.

You take my breath away And so I gasp for more.

I think of how you would hold me, If we weren’t so far.

Visions of you hugging me from behind Turning my head for a kiss.

How close I’d hold you to me, With my earnest grasp, In hopes to keep you close forever.

The songs in my throat I find myself singing, of love, Are all fueled by you.

I’m not one to really beg people to stay But I feel a bit different now.

Like in one way or another You’re meant to stay.

•

Love is one strange feeling one moment you’re happy but all that fades away like a shotgun blast to the heart.

Complicated Every “I love you” It didn’t mean anything Every “I’m sorry” That was a lie Every kiss that pushed us away

Our love was meant to last not crash and burn as if it was in a car wreck Maybe for once the person would finally give a mile not an inch.

22 Steinmetz Star May - June 2018

And fuck with your soul like Either Like Nas. And all we need for you to do is listen..

To the plastered sounds of my wall..

Because it’s not inadicquate & we’re not illiterate U.N.I.T.Y We’re a unity.

•

A prayer Hands risen above my head heart on sleeve, pray.

Let me speak with my heart, from my heart.

My brain confuses me, bombarded by what others think of me. wanting to be more Wanting to be less.

Bless me with a voice.

A voice of fire just enough to warm you.

And aloe to sooth.

Washed away on a wave waiting to crash back to shore.

You are a raft, abreath of fresh air Hands risen about my head Heart in hands I pray. You give me the passion I desire I’ve been longing for.

The motivation.

By Jose Plaza Complicated

This sound is Melanin This is the sound of resistance This is the sound is persistence You wish this would stop.

This sound is CPS And sorry we regret to inform you but you will not Turn down our volume Or make a call on your black berry.

Because I can make you put your phone down Like Badu

By Jennifer Pelot

The one person I would give everything for, but what..

Just so I could end up broken like my soul has left its place to wander the afterlife

This sound is Nina Simone Queen Latinos Vic Mensa Angie stone Raury Sade Bilal

Make me strong but not just for me, But everyone I am carrying with For all of the hope people have placed on me.

To pull everyone up Up & up Above me head I give you my mind Thinking of voter finder ground Sounds of laughter After a long day

You walk around now like what we had was nothing Like most people say, “It wasn’t meant to be.”

My heart has broken to point of no coming back, no glue will mend this heart back to its original way of love.

I hope you know how much this relationship affected me but you’ll never know because you were too blind to see it

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Lord give me happiness not to Not to keep for my self But to ooze like my Ora On to those who need it.

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Star Arts & Entertainment

23

Anti-violence art contest winner Chorus class sings into spring

By Tamara Johnson

such a good job,” Ms. L. said. he chorus class “The soloists did had a concert an exceptional job. It on May 23. was not just a spring There were ton of soconcert it was also a los and features. Some talent show. And I veteran performers would like to thank returned; others stuthe administration dents hit the stage for Tamara Johnson and Shaniya Keaton were soloists at the May 23 concert. for allowing my stuthe first time. dents to perform.”

“The spring conTeacher Anna Lensiakowska Some of favorite cert gave everyone a chance to put together by the concert. For songs and soloists of the eveshow their talent,” sophomore weeks she pushed her classes and ning were “We Are The World,” Eileen Rodriguez said. “It was set out to look for students with Ain’t Gonna Let Nobody,” with a very touching show. I saw a hidden talents. Her chorus class soloist Shaniya Keaton, “Cups,” bunch of brave people singing worked on many songs, picked with soloist Tamara Johnson songs that were very dear to the top ones. and “People Get Ready.” them. This was the best way to “The concert was amazing, showcase the end of the year.” the students surprised me with

Art by Millie Martinez

T M

illie Martinez was chosen as a “Blue Ribbon” winner in the 23rd Annual Illinois Council Against Handgun Violence’s Student Voices Contest.

“The Student Voices contest was created to give Illinois youth an opportunity

for creative self expression on the topic of gun violence, as well as provide a public platform for youth voices to be heard,” ICHV stated in its announcement.

Millie’s entry “accomplished both things exceptionally well,” the program manager said.

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•

Assembly showcases Arabic culture in dance, music and language

By Kirsten Gassman

A

n Arabic culture assembly that celebrated dance, music and poetry was held on April 24 for the whole school during 8th period There were three dances by Al-Aqsa Band and a drum performance by Arabic II students Jaden Mitchel, Andrew Laboy, Fernando Zaragoza, Alexis Carrasco, Manuel Gonzalez, Ezequiel Sanchez, Antonio Quinones, and Syrus Selvy.

The music featured six traditional Arabic rhythms. All the rhythms are based off of three sounds.

“The sounds dum, tek, and es were easy to understand for making different rhythms,” said junior Juan Velasquez.

There was a poetry reading in Arabic and English presented by Maha Kasem and Aseel Abuawad; they read “I Am From There” by Mahmoud Darwish.

During the assembly students attempted to learn a few words in Arabic: “marhaba,” which means hello, and “shukran,” thank you.

The assembly was a learning experience for those in the audience and on stage.

“I liked showing other people in school what we learned,” junior Danielle Dunlea said.

Sophomore Anthony Hall enjoyed the additional exposure to Arabic culture.

“I thought the assembly was cool,” he said.

“Arabic is fun to learn and I am looking forward to it next year.”

The Arabic Culture Assembly was put together by two groups of people: my 6th period Arabic II class and two of our Arab-American students, Aseel Abuawad and Nataly Yousif.

The Arabic class had been learning percussion from visiting artist, George Lawler, funded by a STARTALK grant.

Aseel first reached out to me when a friend’s dance group said they would perform at Steinmetz for free. She was excited and hopeful to see her culture on display for the school.

Debka (also spelled debke, debkeh) is a type of folk dance from the Levant region of

Photos by Tamara Johnson

the Middle East. The Levant includes Lebanon, Jordan, Syria and Palestine.

The dance’s main feature is that the dancers step to the beat, often while holding hands, and moving in a circle.

While Aseel’s friend’s dance group offer fell through, it became clear there was an opportunity to combine an Arabic class drum performance with a professional dance performance.

The group that performed was Al-Aqsa Band. This was their first time performing at a high school. The group normally performs at festivals, fundraisers, and weddings.

In order to pay for this group, Ms. Gassman created a Donors Choose fundraiser.

Thanks to the donations of friends, family, alumni and staff members Tania Moumji, Robin Russo, Joanna Mocek and Seth Patner we were able to raise the money to bring this

group to Steinmetz.

Senior Aseel Abuawad saw the assembly as a success: “This assembly was a reflection of the culture I grew up loving and being proud of,” she said. “Each year more and more ArabAmerican students come to Steinmetz and I’ve been trying to make a performance like this happen at our school since my freshman year.

I’m so proud we made this happen.”

Some students noticed that all of the performers were male. Al-Aqsa Band happened to be an all-male group, but this dance is often co-ed. The student drum performers were all male because our female students had early dismissal due to athletic events. Neither of these art forms excludes women.

Arabic has been offered at Steinmetz for two years. Arabic I is offered to students starting sophomore year. Sophomore Cynthia Uribe looks forward to continuing her

Arabic studies next fall in Arabic II. “I think the Arabic language and culture is really unique and cool, even from different other languages,” she said. “I really look forward to learning more about it.”

For junior Angelique Ortiz, taking Arabic has led to unexpected rewards: “I love taking Arabic because I use it on a daily basis. I use it during work and people are very impressed.”

Other students shared their enthusiasm.

“In my junior year, when I found out I was going to be taking Arabic language, I thought it was a mistake,” senior Jailene Alvarez said.

“The Arabic language seemed like something that was going to be difficult to learn, but once you’re engaged, it isn’t hard. After having taken this class for two years I learned to love it, as well as Ms. Gassman.”

Fernando Zaragoza was one of the drum performers.“It was a joy learning how to play the darbouka,” he said. “I learned something new about Arabic culture. As a senior, I would have liked to have taken Arabic sooner.”

The day after the assembly, the Steinmetz darbouka drummers traveled to CPS Arabic Culture Day at Lindbolm Math and Science Academy where they performed in front of students from Arabic programs at other CPS high schools and elementary schools.

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Hundreds of students enjoyed two overnight events thanks to senior events sponsor Robin Russo and the many other Steinmetz staff members who chaperoned.

•

Lock-In photos by Steven Nunez

Six Flags Grad Nite and Senior Lock-In provided fun all night long

May - June 2018 Steinmetz Star 23

Star Senior Shout Outs

22

To Ashanti Davis

I love to give a huge shout out to my best friend, my ride or die, my sister from another mother, my partner in crime – for always being there for me for making my high school experience the best, for making amazing memories with me. No matter how hard things get between us, she is always there by my side.

Big shout out for Gisselle Castro for being an amazing human being and for coming into my life. I love you with all my heart, girlfriend.

Odaliz Renteria

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To Jacky, Rosalinda and Alma

Photo by Frank Cabrera

To Giselle

A special shout out to one of my closest, baddest friends. I love her so much she’s so motivational and inspiring. I can come to her about anything and she’ll give me the best advice. I just want to say, “Congrats baby, I love you.”

Malcolm Davis

To family and friends

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I really want to shout out to my great friends, Alma Carmona, Jacky De Santiago and Rosalinda Diaz. I’m very thankful that I met these three amazing girls. I really appreciate their friendship.

I will start to miss you guys a lot. Anyway,

we will be together in the summer 24/7. I see us happy as friends in the future. Love you guys so much. Las quiero mucho, babies, por siempre serán mis mejores amigas.

Elizabeth Patino

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To my boyfriend, puppy and friends The first shout out I would like to give would be to my mom, dad, and little sister.

Thank you guys for always helping me when I was so stressed about school.

I would like to give a shout out to my favorite weaka**. Thank you, Vince, for always trying to help me, especially in the times I did not want to focus on school. I hope you accomplish everything you put your mind to in college. I’m extremely proud of what you have done so far and who you are becoming.

Shout out to my best friend Weronika.

Thanks for sitting next to me in gym on the first day of school because you’ve been a huge part of my life and I’m extremely grateful to have you as my best friend. I’m very proud of you güera and I hope you accomplish what you put your mind to.

Lastly, shout out to Monste, Henry, and Mota for going to eat wings with me this year.

Liana Perez

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To Brandon, Natalia and Karla

I’ve had so many good experiences with people in this school but none really compare to my three bestfriends: Natalia Holguin, Brandon Arriaga, and Karla Peralta and I would like to give them all a special shout

out. They’re so important to me and there’s a ton of great memories with these great people that I love.

Joshua Hampton

To Nathalie

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Shout out to my boyfriend for making sSenior year a very special year. He’s always there for me whenever I need him and I know he will do great things in the future. Can’t wait to see what this summer brings us. XOXO My best friend for the past four years. We met in gym class because we both love to talk s___ and eat food. High school has been a real ride, but I’m glad I spend it all with her.

I know she will be in my life forever because nobody else gets how overly dramatic I am or how sarcastic we are to each other. She literally makes me so proud every day and I wouldn’t ask for anyone better. XOXO

To my boy who is not a puppy anymore, but is in my eyes. He’s the cutest thing ever and I miss him so much. He is the best boy out there. (No disrespect to other people’s good boys.) XOXO Karla Shout out to my girl, Luz. We are going our separate ways, but staying close to each other. We went from working together in the summer to being captains on the swim team.

She is going to be someone I will always want to be around and who will be in my life for a very long time. On baby frog legs. I love you, Mamas Karla Aguilar

•

To Marc and Karla

To Javarius

Thank you for being a dream student.

Ms. Schmidt

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To Chiya Not only was Chiya an amazing captain and team player; she is wonderfully kind.

Her undying passion for whatever she sets her mind to is highly admirable. I found an outstanding leader and a friend in Chiya and she will be missed terribly by her fellow Lady Streaks. Alyssa Smith

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24 Steinmetz Star May - June 2018

I want to give Marc a shout out. I met Marc my junior year in OneGoal and we started talking as friends my senior year. I would like to thank him for making my senior year great; all our late night drives around downtown. He never fails to put a smile on my face when I’m Javarius Jones is a great friend and a long- down and most of the time he’s there for me time life friend... I can already see it. when I need him. I hope we keep in touch Tyrek Gates and we can have more fun memories.

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Oh, Barla, where to begin with you? I love you so much. I can’t believe how close we got over the school year, from swimming to water polo to hanging out after school. You have always been there for me, giving me advice and taking and picking me up from work. I can’t wait for what the future has for us. Love you.

Luz Herrera

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Star Senior Shout Outs To OneGoal students

To Mr. Ochoa

25

To wonderful students

What can I say? You aren’t rid of me yet!

These last two years with all of you has been a bright spot in my career. It has been a lot of work and I feel I really got to know each and everyone of you well. You all have taught me so much and now the real world awaits! I’m in the unique position to help as you navigate post high school life. It’s about to get real and your path to success will continue to evolve.

No good-bye’s between us. I’m very proud of all of you. Miguel Ochoa

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To Mr. Cole

I just want to give a shout out to one of my favorite teachers, Mr. Cole, because he’s a great teacher who taught me so much. He is always giving me good advice and supporting me with my college questions and he’s a great friend of mine.

Jovany Sanchez

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Where do I start? I love you so much; you’re like a dad to me, Mr. Ochoa. You’ve helped me ever since I was in your Spanish class. I’ve always looked up to you. You’ve helped me through so many tough times and if it wasn’t for you I honestly wouldn’t know where I would be right now without your help and appreciation. Thank you so, so much. Angel Chavez

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To Stephany

To Jovanny

To my best friend since freshman year, I want to say thank you for always being there for me, for always taking care of me and being my best friend.

I’ve appreciated you a lot. These past four years have been amazing with you.

I can’t wait for graduation. I love you so much.

Stephany Casillas

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I wanna give a shout out to my best friend, Stephany. She’s the best. She’s always bringing a smile to my face and always supporting

me in everything. She’s always there no matter what. She’s just the best. I really appreciate her.

Jovany Sanchez

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Photo by Steven Nunez

These young individuals have overcome numerous obstacles and deserve to be recognized for their academic achievements. Each students has gained the academic language and leadership skills to be extremely viable members of society.

Language barriers are a very difficult thing to overcome; however, each student has prevailed against all odds, since the beginning of of their high school careers.

Each individual has brought a pleasant and warm temperament to the overall class-

room environment, and thus the school.

We have no doubt in our minds that each individual will accomplish great things in the future. These young men and women are students to model, and we can only hope that their peers aspire to display the same type of mentality and work ethic.

Good luck in all your future endeavours, and don’t hesitate to come to us for any help or support you might need. XO Ms. Childs and Ms. Scolire

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To civics students

To seniors

Shout out to all the seniors in my civics classes. Thank you for engaging in class discussions and being interested in the instructional material. Keep up the great work.

Let nothing hold you back. You rock.

Mr. Mink

•

For being outstanding students who are helpful, responsible and focused with great attitudes, shout out to Karina Gorss, Miakeya Lindsey, Eric Miranda, Le’Shayla Williams, Brandon Mendoza, Aseel Abuawad, Anthony Aguilar, Diana Lopez, La’Kevin Madlock.

From Ms. Ward

•

To teachers and friends

My time at Steinmetz will always be special to me and I will look back fondly, despite all the stress and bad days that came with high school.

What got me through those hard times were so many people that deserve recognition.

If you are one of these people, thank you from the bottom of my heart. You helped make my time at Steinmetz so amazing.

Shout out to every single teacher I had during these four years. Whether you know it or not, you impacted me during those 50 minutes we spent together, Monday - Friday.

Also, to anyone who I’ve ever been classmates with, I wish you all the luck with your future endeavors. I appreciate the time we’ve shared together in class.

Specific shout-outs go to: Ms. Schmidt – I thank you because working on the Star was one of my favorite things during high school. Thank you for being my mom at school. You opened up your room to us so many times for lunch and some of my

best memories at Steinmetz are in room 333.

You have given me advice on nearly everything and have taught me so much more than how to be a journalist. I will miss your feedback, wisdom and the care that you give.

Ms. Jotwani – You are also one of my mother figures at Steinmetz. I will miss our talks and spilling tea during lunch. It’s always a pleasure seeing you and talking and it kind of makes me sad that I won’t able to easily go into your room and spark up a conversation.

You’ve always been so helpful with advice and with proof-reading my essays that I appreciate you so much. You always brighten my day when I see you and I’m going to miss you so much, Ms. Jotwani.

To all my lovely friends Jorge, Faviola, Adrian, Liana and Vince – Over the years in class, we’ve built bonds and friendships. I want you all to know that I love every encounter we have and appreciate all the conversations.

I will miss you guys so much and I hope

our friendship continues after high school because I definitely want it to.

To Liana, thank you for all the help you’ve given me over the four years. Adrian, I love how we’ve gotten close recently and I hope it only grows more. As for Jorge, Vince and Favi, you’re all people I love talking to and I hope we remain in touch.

Nicole, Noah, Santi, Daria, Taeha, and Natalia – Thank you for letting me into your circle this year and giving me some of the best memories of my senior year. I’ve always seen you guys around and thought you were all cool, and it makes me so happy that I was finally able to build friendships with you. I wish we became friends earlier. I hope we maintain contact and still hang out often. I love you guys and thanks for laughs we’ve had.

Agape, Jamara, Kyiah, and Emelie – You guys are my best friends and I wouldn’t have survived high school without you. When I look back at high school, our friendship is one of the best things that came out of it. We may

have our fights and I may want to strangle you guys sometimes (*looks at Kyiah and Emelie*), but we always pull through and I hope that remains after we graduate.

I see you all as life-long friends and I hope we’re all in each other’s future for a long time to come. I love you guys so much and there’s so much more I can say, but I hope you guys just know because you feel the same way.

I don’t know what I’m going to do at college without any of you. Just know I’ll never forget you guys and promise to try and communicate with you all often. Don’t miss me too much, or worse, please don’t forget me. Emelie and Kyiah, XOXO Gossip Girls forever.

Jamara, you can sing to me any day and you’ll always be my boo daddy.

And Agape, you are my forever fam and I don’t know and I don’t wanna know what high school would have been like without you. I love you all so much and never forget it.

Elise Guillen

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May - June 2018 Steinmetz Star 25

Star Sports

26

Water polo teams show great effort

By Valeriia Lytvak

B

oth girls and boys water polo teams had pretty hard times. The girls won two games against Prosser and Foreman teams, and boys came with victory against Brooks, Little Village, and Schurz.

Both of the teams were small to the point where team couldn’t participate in some meets, as there were not enough players. But that did not stop them from playing their best when they did play, and they came close in the score with no subs, when the other teams had a full bench. This is real hard work.

The captain for the boys team this year was Luis Huerta, the second year of his leadership. He is a good coach, a reliable player and a great captain.

“It was a tough season,” Luis said, “but no matter what the score said we always pulled through. I love leading a team, I like when they look towards me for help, but this year this team showed that they could really lead themselves.”

The team captains for the girls were Katie Marin and Valeriia Lytvak. They worked together to help the team at hard moments, and were a good example of how each team members are connected to each other.

Without Katie this reporter would have not been able to carry the captain title. She helped me to understand the leadership, and always been there for me and for the team. She is kind, smart, strong, but tough at times when we need someone to command. I’ll really miss her next year.

Despite all of the challenges, the new swimmers of the team Zaida Hernandez, Brandon Mendoza, Ray Alonso, Eric Miranda, Erika Carrasco, Jaila Williams, Keidy Cervantes, Oscar Pelayo, RianoVera Santiago progressed throughout the season.

Some were able to be in the water for the whole game, which shows the results of intense training and effort.

Front row: Eduardo Delgado, Raymond Alonso, Luis Huerta, Marcos Estrada, Oscar Pelayo; Back row: David Krasnicki, Eric Miranda, Brandon Mendoza, Riano-Vera Santiago, Coach Luigi De Col Varsity Awards: MVP–Marcos Estrada, Most Improved–Eduardo Delgado, Best First Year Player–Raymond Alonso

Front row: Luz Herrera, Erika Carrasco, Valeriia Lytvak, Katie Marin, Teaha Cione; Back row: Coach Suzy Sullivan, Jaila Williams, Zaida Hernandez, Keidy Cervantes, Katerina Fleischer, Karla Aguilar-Sanchez Varsity Awards: Offensive MVP–Luz Herrera, Defensive MVP–Katie Marin, Most Improved–Valeriia Lytvak

The returning players progressed this season as well. The seniors who are leaving made a great job of showing their best on the games. These players are Teaha Cione, Marcos Estrada, Luz Herrera, Karla Sanchez and Katie Marin.

Sophomore Katarina Fleischer took over as deep end goalie.

“Playing goal was definitely a challenge but I enjoyed having to take the responsibility of a new position,” she said. “I plan on working harder and doing even better next year. When I make a goal I feel like I can do anything, and it’s just an all around good feeling when you have your team (aka family) cheering for you.

You feel like you can do anything.”

Water polo is an exciting sport.

“I feel nervous but excited when I play,” Eduardo Delgado said. “The game always hypes me up, and it gets the whole team excited.”

Of course, the team needs its coaches, Steinmetz alumnus Luigi De Col and teacher Susy Sullivan. Luigi was supportive and strict with practices, yet the team still had a lot of fun.

Coach Sullivan always answered the questions the team had.

“We are in really good position for rebuilding,” Ms. Sulliovan said. “We’re looking for people to join for next year, where we’ll improve a lot.”

The best part of the season is that we were always there for each other, singing old Disney songs in the bus or playing Cards Against Humanity while waiting for a game to start or when we waited for a whole hour to go all together into cafe.

We stayed together, and gave each other support when someone was upset about the game. That is what I hope our team could be like next year – dedicated, strong, supportive and fun.

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Photos by Steven Nunez

Star Shout Outs To teachers, JV soccer team and friends

I want to send a big shout out to Ms. Bates, Ms. Russo, Mr. Ochoa, Mr. Kotcherha, Ms. Ramos, Mr. Mink and to all the amazing teachers I have had in the past four years.

Thank you so much for motivating me, for always being there for me and for supporting all of my personal and academic goals. I truly appreciate every single one of you.

Thank you for making me realize that I can accomplish whatever I put my mind to. I will miss all of you so much.

Shout out to Ms. Del Valle for being such a great supporter throughout my senior year. You are such a caring and amazing person. I will miss you so much.

JV Soccer team players and coaches Big shout out to all my girls from the JV soccer team. I am extremely happy and proud of all of you. We improved so much since our first game and I am honestly going to miss being on the team with all of you.

I will always remember the memories we created: the bus rides, the practices, the jokes, the laughter, getting yelled at by Ms. Childs and even the horrible weather in which we played.

I can honestly say that my senior year on the team was one of the best experiences I

have ever had, thanks to you girls. I will miss every single one of you and I hope that we can all stay in touch.

Shout out to my past coach Ms. Guidara, who (although no longer at Steinmetz) made me realize that I should never give up on something that I really love and to continue playing the game until I hear the whistle. She made me grow a lot as a person and I will forever be grateful for having her as my coach.

Shout-out to Ms.Childs who made me realize that I was improving myself with ev-

26 Steinmetz Star May - June 2018

These four years have changed me as an individual and I am very happy to say that I met a lot of amazing friends on whom I can count on for anything.

Thank you for always being by my side, especially when things got difficult.

Shout out to Cintia, Brenda, Kathy, Fatima, Leticia F., Leslie A., Brayan, Antonio S. and to all the friends who kept it real with me and made these four years at Steinmetz so much better.

Thank you for all the memories that we created. I really wish the best for all of you in the future. I will miss all of you very much. Los quiero mucho.

Biggest shout out to my two guy best friends, Ivan and Max. Thank you for the amazing friendship that we made. I Photo by Steven Nunez will always remember how both of you ery practice. Thank you for all the jokes and motivated and supported me. Meeting you laughter that you shared with us. I really en- guys was one of the best things that happened joyed having you as my coach. to me.

Thank you to my coaches and my girls for Thank you for never leaving my side and this amazing experience at Steinmetz. I love for always being you. Thank you so much for you all so much. always being there for me whenever I needed someone. You two are the greatest best friends Friends: I could’ve ever asked for.

Huge shout out to all the friends I made I love how our bond keeps on growing here throughout the four years. Thank you so everyday. I am truly thankful to have you both much for all the memories that we shared. I in my life. I love you guys so much. truly appreciate all of you very much.

Carmen Bautista

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Star Sports Track and field team members work together to improve

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By Angelina Villarreal

T

he track and field team was highly successful. Despite outdoor track meets being cancelled a lot, the girls were still able to persevere to end their season with a strong finish.

All the girls competed fiercely and did the best they all could possibly do at the city meets at Hanson Stadium and the Illinois state sectional meet at Concordia University, which took the whole school day.

The athletes were highly motivated to finish off their season with great memories. Competition was very tough but the girls stuck together and helped each other out.

The state meet was the last meet for the seniors, who finished the strongest they had ever finished before. Congratulations to Jahira, Leticia, Leslie, Jaquilya, Chiya and Alma.

All the success throughout their track season goes back to coaches Abel Pereyra, Alicia Urquizo and Mercedes Reyes. They were the ones who led the team through everything and taught the athletes everything they needed to know. The banquet was held on May 31.

2018 Girls’ Track & Field Awards White Chenille Four-Year Varsity Letters: Leticia Perez & Jahira Damian Most Valuable Athletes: Jahira Damian & Angelina Villarreal Best New Athletes: Keren Mendoza & Vanessa Moyao Most Dedicated Athletes: Leticia Perez & Abigail Montebello Team Captains: Leslie Sequeira, Jahira Damian, & Angelina Villarreal

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Get ready for fall cross country. During July and August, runners will meet at 8:30 a.m. on Wednesdays and Saturdays at Riis Park.

For more information, contact Coach Pereyra at misterpereyra@yahoo.com

Streaks baseball banquet celebrates fun season and seniors

By Tom Feazelle

T

he annual endof-the-year baseball banquet at Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse on June 7 honored the players, especially the three graduating seniors.

Kenneth Delgado is a very positive person, which probably helped him come back from his injury this year, when he got hit in the eye at practice. Kenny stayed positive and came back to play. He never yells at anyone. He’s someone I look up to.

In his first year playing baseball, Alexis Carrasco became one of the better players. He’s a former “hallway kid,” as Coach Roldan calls him.

Manny Reynoso was one of the most consistent players. He was at all the games and practices, always supporting teammates.

I wish I had more years with all of them.

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Sports Photos Hundreds of sports action shots are available on the Steinmetz Star website: www.steinmetzstar.com

Varsity soccer team played great in tough conditions

By Jay Ann Perez

T

he girls varsity soccer team “had a great season,” Coach Nico Kotcherha said.

“We took fourth place in a very difficult conference and played three games in the snow, but the girls fought through all these hard obstacles,” he said.

The team looks good for next year with many returning players.

“Pray that everyone shows up to the games and practices,” Mr. Kotcherha said.

Varsity Soccer Awards: MVP: Yannaly Alvarenga MVP: Leslie Most Improved: Gabby Reyna Most Dedicated: Roxana Diaz

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Photo by Steven Nunez

May - June 2018 Steinmetz Star 27

Star Sports

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Softball team wins conference

By Tom Feazelle

T

he softball team had a phenomenal year, going undefeated in regular season play. The Streaks were 10-0 in conference and 12-0 overall until they lost to Northside in the city playoffs.

This is the second year in a row varsity won conference. The only drawback of the season was that few witnessed the team’s excellent play. Due to the field construction, every game was played away from home.

Pitcher Rachael Feazelle, who had an amazing senior year, along with her cocaptain, Abrianna Martinez, led the team to its second consecutive championship.

One of the most important contributions to this year’s success is that the core of the team had been together for four years.

Many family members and friends were at the last regular season game, the 13-1 victory over North Grand.

It was the team’s senior night, celebrating Marychu Vargas, Keyreen Fulgencio and Crystal Roman, as well as Rachael and Abrianna.

The seniors on the team have paved the way for next year’s team that will try to carry on the softball streak of winning conference. Freshman Jada Ayala and junior Raychel Vician are players to watch.

Coach Robin Russo named Jada and Raychel as players of the games in April in the victories over Schurz and Chicago Marshall.

“Raychel picked off runners attempting to steal second and third in this 18-1 victory,” Coach Russo said. “She also went 2-3 with a single and her first home run of the season, all with a swollen, bruised hand.”

“Super special shoutout to freshman pitcher Jada Ayala who in her first ever pitching effort in a Streaks uniform, went five innings, pitched a three-hitter with four walks and eight strike outs,” Coach Russo said. ”Jada also went four for five with 3 RBIs a double and a triple.”

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Four-year varsity picther Rachael Feazelle will play for the North Park University Vikings next year. On senior night, she hit two homeruns and struck out many North Grand batters, in a typically dominant outing for the Steinmetz Silver Streaks. Coach Russo had selected Rachael as the player of the game in the team’s win over Clemente in April, calling it a “beauty of a game.” In that game, Rachael pitched a five-inning no-hitter. She struck out 13 and only walked two in the 15-0, complete game shutout. Rachael’s brother Tom says seeing Rachael play “inspires me to be a better player and student.”

Volleyball team wins conference

By Millie Martinez and Victor Hernandez

T

he varsity volleyball team had an incredible conference record of 9-0, losing only a total of three sets in the season.

“This season felt like everything came together,” senior captain Jonathan Ogden said. “We’ve believed in ourselves and our team for years now, and were finally able to accomplish our goal of taking the conference. The team was an amazing one to be a part of – everyone was so supportive and had a drive to win that was almost unmatched.

I think that’s what gave us the edge this year.”

Highlights of the season included sweeping neighborhood rival Prosser 2-0 and a comeback win against Alcott to clinch the conference championship.

The game against Alcott was one of the better sport events players have participated in. After losing the first set, the Streaks won the next two, even coming back from a point deficit in the last set.

It happened to be the senior night so it was firing, the perfect night for anyone who was there. It was also the game that determined which team was going to be conference champs and the Streaks pulled it off through hard work and teamwork, as well with excellent coaching.

Photo by Steven Nunez

The last time volleyball took the conference was a decade ago.

The Streaks were 11-3 overall, losing at the end to Payton in the city playoffs.

“Graduating this year and moving on is sad, but I have faith that my underclassmen can continue this level of competition,” Jonathan said.

Volleyball will move up a division to the red conference for next year. The team looks good, with 10 returning players on the varsity, including junior co-captain Abdulkabir Yahya, and some talented sophomores coming up.

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2018 Varsity volleyball record 2-0 (W) Prosser 2-0 (W) North Grand 2-0 (W) Farragut 2-1 (W) Michelle Clark 2-0 (W) Chicago Sullivan 2-0 (W) Ogden 2-0 (W) Marshall 2-0 (W) Clemente 1-2 (L) Roosevelt 2-0 (W) MLA 2-1 (W) Alcott 2-1 (W) Senn

1-2 (L) Chicago Academy 0-2 (L) Payton Varsity awards MVPs: Abdulkhabir Yahya, Jonathan Ogden Best Offensive player: Adrian Espino Best Defensive player: Victor Hernandez Junior Varsity Awards MVPs: Anthony Escanio and Kevin Luna Most improved: Anis Yahya Best Defensive Player: Juan Cardona