The Catalyst, Volume 6, Issue 2: October 2019

OPINION | Page 4

FOCUSING ON STEM LIMITS STUDENTS

the

ARTS & LIFE | Page 8 WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE SCARY MOVIE?

SPORTS | Page 10 WATER POLO: NDB DEFEATS CARLMONT, 8-5

CATALYST

T H E S T U D E N T N E WS PA P E R O F N OT R E DA M E H I G H S C H O O L

Volume 6, Issue 2

www.TheNDBCatalyst.com

October 2019

For whom the vape hits: Teen vaping culture takes its toll

by Amelia Kyle and Caitlin Musich Managing Editor and Contributing Writer

While vaping and e-cigarette use has been on the rise since the early 2000’s, it has abruptly blown up our TV screens and social media feeds within the past three months – all as a result of the rise in the popularity of the Juul e-cigarette brand and the rise of illnesses and deaths of teens that it has caused throughout the nation. Spanning from late August to October, 33 people have died as a result of vaping, which raises the question: Since vaping has been prevalent throughout this past decade, why are people suddenly becoming severely ill or even dying as a result of it within these past two months as opposed to any time within the past few years?

With the recent news of over a thousand cases of “mysterious lung disease” and deaths caused by vaping, there are countless risks held to the millions of teen vapers in the United States, according to the Los Angeles Times. The hardest factor in preventing them from taking their first hit or quitting is that they do not know the real consequences that

could impact their bodies forever.

With the idea that vaping is the positive alternative to smoking tobacco cigarettes, most teens do not recognize that it can have an even worse impact than regular smoking due to the fact that vaping consists of heated fluid versus dry smoke, causing life-threatening actions in the lungs of a vaper to take place faster than the lungs of a cigarette smoker. With the liquid replacement, the chemicals compete more with the oxygen intake of the body, preventing fresh air from circulating through the rest of the body. As the smoke chemicals reach the lungs and continue to infect them, the internally damaged structure leads to various breathing problems that can cause one’s lungs to expand to the unhealthy size of two blownup plastic bags.

Teens are given a false sense of security without the knowledge of the effects, thinking that they are okay with the different, safer versions of cigarettes – the killers of 480,000 people a year in the past, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). With this kind of impact on communities of regular tobacco smokers, it begs

the question of how much this number will increase for those who continue vaping.

In fact, one pod used to fill a Juul, one of the various kinds of devices used to vape, is equivalent to 200 puffs or one pack of cigarettes.

“Here’s the dangerous line that all teens are balancing on,” Dr. Joseph H. Musich said. “They see all their friends vaping at parties or on social media and think that it’s trendy and cool. So, they give in and end up getting addicted while thinking to themselves, ‘Nothing bad can happen to me. Everyone else is doing it and they’re fine.’ Yet, none of them know that their actions are damaging their bodies and lungs from the inside out. They just don’t know it.”

His hope is that, with the knowledge of how much vaping can affect them, others will heed the warning as they discover how their bodies are reacting to the chemicals.

According to the CDC, the abrupt epidemic of deaths linked to vape and e-cigarette use has been spurred by unknown causes, but

See TEEN VAPING CULTURE | Page 6

VSCO girls and e-girls kick off Spirit Week

by Victoria Giomi News Editor

As Halloween rolls around, NDB enters Spirit Week, five-days filled with crazy costumes and competitive contests.

Many students have begun preparing their costumes for all of the exciting theme days. Spirit Week is NDB’s annual tradition that gets students excited for Halloween or, as it is known on-campus, Dingbat Day.

This year, ASB introduced four theme days that they believe are new and unique to the week that begins Thursday, October

23 and ends on Thursday, October 31.

The first day and so far, the seemingly most popular day, is “VSCO Girl versus E-Girl Day.” Based on two groups in the Tik Tok social media app community, a VSCO girl is someone who wears oversized T-shirts and scrunchies, carries around her Hydro Flasks with friendship bracelets and stickers, and posts a lot of edited pictures of herself on the VSCO photo editing and social media app, while an e-girl is someone who wears dark clothing, dramatic makeup, and colorful hairstyles.

It is an easy look to create and be creative.

The second day was postponed because the freshman class and many upperclassmen were off-campus on the Freshman Retreat. It was the usual Modified Free Dress Friday.

“We canceled ‘Pajama Day’ because it wouldn’t be fair for the freshman because they would not be able to dress up. And, it also would not be fair to the juniors because thirty of them are going to the freshman See SPIRIT WEEK| Page 12

NATALIE BEIER / THE CATALYST

Art teacher Martha Anne Kuntz and students show off their VSCO and e-girl trends.

NEWS

page 2

Q&A with Academic Skills Coach Gillian Hegarty Could you explain a little bit about your new role this year?

I’ve got two new roles this year. One is the Associate Director of International Students, and the other is Academic Skills Coach.

As far as my work with the international students, I work with everything that’s the academic style of things. I help them work within the US education system, and specifically the programs that we have here at Notre Dame… I help them out by going with them to talk to their teachers when they’re unsure.

I help them role play and practice conversations before they have them. But I also help them with study skills as well as English language acquisition.

As far as my study skills, academic coach part goes, I work with all of our students, domestic and international, on a variety of studies, skills, organizational habits, and teach a class as well as do many workshops…

Could you explain your community service work before NDB?

After I graduated from Notre Dame, I went to my undergrad, where one of my de-

grees was a focus of community studies…

When I graduated, I became the youngest director in the nation for progressive political consulting work... We did educational outreach, community organizing and fundraising for groups like the ACLU, Planned Parenthood, Save the Children, Southern Poverty Law Center…

One of my favorite campaigns was with Amnesty International, where we were working on ending violence against women and ending human trafficking, particularly in Sacramento and Oakland.

Through my work there, I heard a lot about what was going on in Cambodia in regards to forced sex work, sex trafficking, and human trafficking, and decided to go and work over there. When I got over there, I worked with a couple different groups doing a couple different things, using education as a tool to help folks decide what they wanted to do…

I worked with the Ministry of Education and worked with a couple different educational groups working to rebuild the educational system after the Khmer Rouge, which was a genocide that happened in Cambodia about forty years ago, and it wiped out the education system... I ended up finishing as a vice principal of an international school that was working on combining both Cambodian tradition with more contemporary international approaches to education with technology and curriculum.

How have you been able to incorporate your passion for service into your position?

I think that the beautiful thing about Notre Dame’s approach is that we interweave the Hallmarks into everything that we do…

Far too often people don’t get to achieve what they want to achieve because they

either don’t know what they’re fully capable of or they simply don’t know what questions to ask. What I’m doing now is serving the Notre Dame community and helping students learn what questions to ask and helping them figure out how they can get to the goals that they want to get to.

I’m hoping to work kind of on a broader scale and bring in... some more of the international mindedness and figure out different ways for our students to be able to partner up with different groups around the world, so that they could do a knowledge exchange and build that connection. Obviously, the easiest way to do that is through our international students, who are a wealth of knowledge and have so much to share.

What’s your favorite part of the NDB community?

The fact that we’re small enough to know each other and still big enough where you don’t feel like everybody’s in your business all the time.

I love the sense of tradition. When I walk down the hallways, I know that I am walking on the shoulders of the community members that came before me, and I know that those future generations are going to be walking as far as we can push.

I love the fact that our school has a spirit of activism and justice. I love that we push ourselves into areas that make us uncomfortable. I love that we challenge ourselves to be the best versions of ourselves that we can be.

I mean, that’s real community: holding yourself accountable and being better than you were yesterday. But it’s something I don’t think that a lot of schools get the chance to do or experience.

News in brief: What’s happening in the NDB community Laudato Si’: NDB cares for its campus home

by Peyton Daley Contributing Writer

NATALIE BEIER / THE CATALYST

NDB pets pose for a picture with their humans.

The Hallmarks in Action board acknowledged Laudato Si’ during the week of October 7 to 11. It refers to an encyclical or letter written by Pope Francis in 2015, titled “On Care for our Common Home (Laudato Si’).”

This letter calls all people to respect the environment and take action against global climate change. The NDB community recognized the message by learning to appreciate and celebrate the environment.

On October 7 and 8, Spiritual Life classes dedicated an entire class period to learn about the meaning of Laudato Si’ in conjunction with activities planned by the Hallmarks board.

“This year was our first year in charge of planning and raising awareness about Laudato Si’, so we really wanted to step up from previous years,” senior Brianna Nunn said. “I made the video, and we raised awareness by taking time in our religion classes to discuss what contributes to making Laudato Si’ important. Also, there were activities given to each class. For example, seniors were given a hike around nature to expand our knowledge on Laudato Si.’”

The video was a short documentary explaining the intentions of Laudato Si’, discussing statistics regarding global climate change, and offering suggestions on how students can help the environment on a daily basis.

On October 8, NDB celebrated “Blessing of the Animals” in honor of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals and the environment. Students, faculty, and

staff brought their pets to school between 7:50 and 8:20 AM to be blessed by sisters of Notre Dame de Namur.

“It’s always nice to see everybody’s pets come to school. If pets make us happy at home, then it’s really cool that, for a quick morning, they can make everyone here happy, too,” Social Sciences teacher Jonathan Tomczak said.

The Hallmark in Action Board chose to spotlight just this week, but hopes that the lessons learned about the community’s role in respecting the environment can be carried on throughout the rest of the school year.

Downey Garden.”

The event featured more student participation than last year. The choir began the evening with a performance of the school’s alma mater. Junior Paige Clarke and senior Deanna Omron recited the school prayer in American Sign Language, followed by three students who spoke about their love for their school.

Over fifty NDB parents, alumni, faculty and staff attended the event.

This year’s event was organized by Celine Curran, NDB’s new Director of Advancement.

Women in Vision event raises scholarship fund

by Amelia Kyle Managing Editor

NDB Students Named National Merit Scholars

by Emma Tsui Staff Writer

The second annual Women of Vision event occurred on October 10 at the Peninsula Golf and Country Club in San Mateo. This year, the event highlighted the achievements of English teacher, Peggy Brady (‘67) and Sister of Notre Dame de Namur, Sr. Roseanne Murphy (‘50).

Women of Vision is an event that celebrates the PHOTO COURTESY OF NDB achievements of remarkCOMMUNICATIONS able alumni and raises Peggy Brady (‘67) money for scholarships for current students. It holds a lot of importance for not only NDB alumni and their families, but also for current students who need financial assistance.

Sr. Murphy gave a speech about the value of education and why it should be appreciated.

Brady addressed her decades-long career as a teacher at NDB and expressed her love for the community.

“What I like best about Notre Dame are the students – they are bright, articulate, hard working, but above all they are kind,” she said. “There are no random acts of kindness at Notre Dame – rather kindness permeates the buildings, hallways, classrooms, gyms, and even our Father Michael

Seniors Eleanor Bangs, Parker Daley, Carol Li, and Vineela Vandanapu were recognized by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation for their academic achievement. Bangs and Daley are semifinalists, and Li and Vandanapu are commended students. Each was a high scorer on the PSAT.

“It feels pretty good PHOTO COURTESY OF because it shows that hard TWITTER.COM/NDBTIGERS work pays off and if you Bangs and Daley study or if you want to do something and you really try hard, at the end, you still get a little smarter,” said Li.

The National Merit Scholarship Program is an academic competition for recognition and scholarships.

Approximately 1.6 million high school students enter the program each year and about 50,000 qualify for recognition based on their high PSAT scores.

For Bangs and Daley, the next steps to be considered a finalist are submitting an application and transcripts

by October 9 and taking the SAT or ACT by December 2019. By February 2020, all finalists will be notified and receive a certificate of merit and scholarships for college.

NEWS

PSA: What to do after a car accident

page 3

by Amelia Kyle and Victoria Giomi Editors

An issue that many teens face is what to do when they’re in their first car crash in their early days as a new driver. When it occurs, it is natural to panic and run away from the situation. But, what is the best way to handle it?

The Catalyst asked retired Millbrae City police officer and Public Safety Captain at the College of San Mateo, Rob Dean, how to (legally) handle a crash, particularly a hit-and-run.

“[A hit-and-run] is when you cause damage to another car, and then you leave the scene without properly identifying yourself or showing any accountability for it,” Dean said.

He also said the consequences for committing a hit-and-run depend on whether or not the accident has caused an injury. “If it’s just property damage, it’s a misdemeanor if you leave.

If a person is injured, however, no matter how slight the injury, it is a felony.

And, the felony is a much more serious crime, and it has a lower standard of arrest. You can be arrested on probable cause based on the circumstances of the of-

EDITORIAL STAFF / THE CATALYST

Students observe a simulated car accident at the 2019 Sober Prom event. fense.”

But, what if you hit a parked car and the driver is not around? Dean suggests that one should leave your basic information on the other person’s car.

“The easiest way is to write it down on a piece of paper, put it underneath the windshield wiper,” Dean said.

“Then take a picture of that to show that you comply with the law. [Then] what you need to do is give the other driver information as to who you are, so they can reach out to you and file an

insurance claim.”

If you find yourself to be the victim of a hit-and-run, Dean said the first thing to do is “observe it, take pictures with your phone, and that’ll substantiate where you are. It’ll show the damage, and it can also show if your vehicle has been moved. In other words, you’ll have pictures to be able to accurately describe to your insurance carrier.”

Dean’s advice to new drivers is to remind yourself of the important rules of the road.

“Driving is a skill. And, the more you do it, the better you get at it,” he said. “So, the analogy that I would use is when you’re learning to walk as a young baby.

You’re okay at it, you toddle around, you wobble, etc. The more you do it, the better you get at it, then you can run, and then you can run correctly, and then you can cut left and right and stop. And, I think a lot of that applies in general to driving that, the more you do it, the sharper your skills get.”

British expats explain Brexit

by Parker Daley Editor in Chief

With the media full of stories about Brexit, Parliament, the Prime Minister, and more, The Catalyst sat down with some British expatriates to get a better understanding of what is going on. English teacher Clare Wadbrook and Science teacher Abigail Vega shared their perspectives on Brexit, but Science teacher, Dr. Elizabeth Hegarty declined to comment due to its divisive nature.

“So in the 70s, Britain joined the European Union.” Wadbrook said. “It meant that, as in America, they have few trade borders between the states which allows free movement of goods and lack of tariffs, and it makes life a lot easier- makes them in a very, very powerful force.”

But, things got complicated.

“A lot of people got very upset for many reasons about that or wanted to remove Britain from European Union,” she said.

“One of the reasons was that [the EU] had lots of rules... They felt that it was bureaucracy gone mad…

Other people felt very differently.”

This debate resulted in Brexit: the British exit

PHOTOS COURTESY OF YNEZ MANALO

Science teacher Abigail Vega and English teacher Clare Wadbrook from the European Union, which was passed by Parliament on June 26, 2018 and is set to take effect this Thursday, October 31.

Wadbrook and Vega maintain that this is a divisive issue, and both shared that they have experienced it within their own families.

“My family has been divided by it,” Wadbrook said. “I do know members of my family find it very difficult to communicate with other members of my family because they voted differently. And, they feel that the vote that they made was irresponsible,

has plunged the country into chaos, and that it’s an absolute disaster and terrifying. So it is very divisive… To me, the biggest tragedy is that politics has become so divisive.”

Vega shares the same sentiment.

“My family, we don’t have political conversations so that we don’t argue about it,” she said.

“But, on the morning when Brexit was voted for, I spoke to my sister on the phone, and we both cried when we found out about it [passing]... I know all my siblings very much remained upset about it, but I

avoid having that conversation with the older generations.”

The major political figures involved with the issue include Boris Johnson, the Prime Minister; Jeremy Corbyn, the leader of the opposition; and Nigel Farage, leader of the Brexit party and former head of a fascist organization. Wadbrook said they are key figures to watch.

Brexit may seem complex and foreign to American students, but it provides an example of both how similar, yet different foreign governments are to their own.

Fake news?

Not here. @theNDBCATALYST

OPINION

page 4

Focusing on STEM too much limits students Bianca Lopez Staff Writer @TheNDBCatalyst

Over the past several years, NDB has put a lot of attention and support toward bringing STEM – science, technology, engineering, and math – to campus in its classes, extracurricular activities, and facilities. It is planning to implement a STEM pathway and renovate its science classrooms in the near future. That is good news for those who want to pursue a career in those disciplines. But, what about those who do not?

Other careers, such as business and the creative arts, are popular college majors and high school electives. But, these classes that help students try out different things, find their passions, and prepare them for college and career are not very well represented in the school’s curriculum. Yes, visual and performing arts classes are available, but there are only a few. NDB’s Creative Writing and the Tri-School

Program’s Architecture and Business classes held at Serra HS used to be available, but they were cut during the last few years.

This blindsided students who are interested in those fields, leaving them unsure about what to do about exploring their interests and declaring their majors.

“I do think there’s more of an opportunity to take more classes in the maths and sciences,” Michelle Bizeau, the new Associate Head of School for Wellness and Empowerment, said. “If one is in the Humanities, there’s nothing further than those basic core classes.” As the chair of the counseling department, she acknowledges the limitations for students not interested in STEM.

Colleges like to read applications of potential students who show more than just a basic interest in their major. They like to see core and elective classes, clubs, community

service, and other extracur- before her junior year at mal amount for any oppor- the new Associate Head of riculars that reflect their fu- Emory University in At- tunities outside of that.

School for Curriculum and ture career. But, because of lanta, Georgia, taking a “We need to have Instruction, was unaware our school’s course offer- two-week-long program on many more electives and of student issues with the ings, some NDB students business. She then spent widespread opportuni- STEM-focused curriculum. are forced to fend for them- part of this summer at ties for students because Although it may seem like selves.

Cañada College, taking an not everyone will want to STEM rules the school, she

“Architecture at advertising and marketing take those advanced level wants to reassure us that the Serra set me up for oppor- class. classes in math and sci- course catalog is in our fatunities outside of school, “There were no ence,” Bizeau believes. “It vor. like the interior design in- other ways to show col- is incredibly important that She believes “a ternship I did over [the] student-led survey summer,” senior Kate about the kinds of Rose Keighran says. “I classes that girls would worked with [celebrity like more of would be interior designer] Kenreally helpful... This is dall Wilkinson, which the time of year when was one of the best we are talking with deopportunities I have partment chairs and the ever gotten. There is administration about no way I could have what the course catasucceeded if I had not log will look like for taken the class.” next year.”

Business is

STEM should not another popular inhave this much emphaterest among NDB sis on the curriculum, seniors, but that Triand the school should School class was cando more to accomceled a few years ago. modate other areas of PHOTO COURTESY OF USC For many students, this interest. While female USC Marshall is ranked as one of the best business schools. came as a shock; they involvement in STEM thought that this class was leges I was interested in we’re serving all students’ should be encouraged due going to help kickstart their business; this was the only interests because, once they to the lack of women in business plans and get them option I had,” she said. leave here, they get to de- those fields, it should not be started in their major.

There are count- cide [what to study], and it prioritized at the expense

NDB students are less programs offered to would be incredibly nice if of other subjects. Girls and forced to explore their in- STEM students outside of we were able to appropri- women should not feel like terests elsewhere and find the world of NDB, such as ately prepare them to get their interests are less imother ways to prove their science programs and in- into these top-level schools portant than anyone else’s. focus on their college ap- ternships. Many advertise- that do offer a variety of plications.

Senior Zoe ments to Stanford Medicine widespread majors.”

Spencer spent the summer come to mind, but a mini- Dr. Linda Kern,

So, what do you think about impeachment?

The Catalyst asked the Social Science Department teachers what they thought of the impeachment inquiry against the president. This is what they had to say about that.

“It feels like a fulltime job to follow the impeachment process. If I miss one day, I feel like I missed a whirlwind.

It seems like the case for impeachment is increasing or the case that the President violated the Constitution is building up. I guess we’ll see how that ends up moving forward in the House and, ultimately, whether or not members of his party will vote against him.

That’s the next open question here,” said Stephane Barile (‘01), Social Sciences Department Chair

“I will say that impeachment is not good for the country. What I find intriguing and interesting about this impeachment process is… we’re seeing the Constitution in action.

The Constitution is being challenged in ways we’ve never seen.

There are events… being brought up that are unprecedented. It’s going to be fascinating to watch how [Congress and the Judicial Branch] handle what’s happening because it’s unchartered territory,” said Wendy Connolly, World History teacher

“I think impeachment is the ultimate example of checks and balances spelled out in the Constitution, as it’s one of the few things that fully incorporates all three branches... I think the state of the government now and where it has gotten is the epitome of the warning that our Founding Fathers said. Washington was adamantly opposed to the formation of political parties because of the dangers factions can have,” said Rebecca Fisher, U.S. History teacher

“It’s history-making because it’s the first time in 20 years that it’s happening...

When there’s an accusation of a president abusing the power of their office, Congress has to investigate and decide whether it merits removing the president from office… I can understand why emotions are running so high on it because it’s not a regular thing and there’s a lot at stake for both parties, depending on the outcome,” said Jonathan Tomczak, U.S. Government teacher

Information compiled by Parker Daley, Editor in Chief; Graphics and Photos: The Catalyst Editorial Staff

OPINION

Halloween: Is it just another day or witchcraft?

Claire Tierney Staff Writer @TheNDBCatalyst

Based on a CNN report from last year, Halloween is one of the most popular holidays in America, with more than 175 million people participating in the festivities every year.

Although it falls at the end of October, people spend weeks in preparation, making or trying on costumes, putting up decorations, and stocking up on candy. Some people go to haunted houses, pumpkin patches, or theme

parks. And, on the night of the 31st, people, usually children and teenagers, dress up in costumes to parade the streets in search of candy at the doors of their neighbors.

Those who support it, love it, from little kids who get to collect and eat candy to the elderly who wait for the kids at their otherwise empty porch. It is a chance for people to show off their creative sides through their

costumes, especially if they Halloween originated in the occult. made them themselves, or paganism.

Furthermore, through their Halloween In history, a pa- some people also argue that displays, decorating their gan was someone who celebrating Halloween is houses just like it’s Christ- worshipped several gods. glorifying the devil through mas.

Over time, its meaning watching scary movies or

It is an opportuni- changed to eventually de- wearing scary costumes. ty for communities to come scribe someone who does Maybe it’s witchcraft. together as the event draws not go to a church, mosque, Honestly, Halm o s t loween people Some people argue that celebrating Halloween is just of all is practicing “syncretism” or the merging of a n o t h a g e s er day Christianity and paganism. out of on the their calenhomes and into the streets – or synagogue. To this end, dar and, though it has some or, at least onto their porch- some people argue that strange beginnings, it has es – in order to handout or celebrating Halloween is obviously grown from its receive pieces of free can- practicing “syncretism” or past into a holiday that is dy. the merging of Christianity more about candy, cos But, those who and paganism. This is con- tumes, and decorations. believe the opposite often sidered unacceptable in the The best advice one could disregard this aspect and eyes of God as it is specifi- get for the upcoming seachoose to argue against the cally stated in the Bible that son is to simply just have holiday with the fact that no one should participate in fun.

Good night, Tigers: Go the heck to sleep Kaitlyn Lopez Staff Writer @TheNDBCatalyst

One of the biggest issues amongst high school students is the lack of sleep that they are getting. According to Nationwide Children’s Hospital, teens are supposed to get an average of nine hours of sleep per night.

But, it seems impractical to get that much sleep because of all of the homework they get and their participation in extracurricular activities. They have to go to practice or a game for a few hours, then go home to shower, eat, relax or spend time with fam-

ily for a few more hours, and then start homework for another few hours.

In a Google Forms poll of 144 NDB students, 96 shared why they get the amount of sleep that they get every night. Ninety-two of those reported homework as one of the main reasons.

Nearly 27% of students reported getting an average of eight hours a night, an amount slightly under the recommended hours of sleep. Even at five hours, an amount significantly below the recommended hours of sleep, 13.2% of students

fall behind. their work. they end up procrastinat “My weekly av- Students are in a ing, using the time they erage ranges… is 5 hours lose-lose situation. They have right now to do someand 50 minutes to 6 hours either end up deciding to thing else and then doing and 50 minutes,” junior sleep and neglect their their work at the last minMia Soracco said. She gets homework or they decide ute. The late start schedule two to three hours less than not to sleep and struggle to does help some students the recommended hours of remember and apply the in- get more sleep, but it is not sleep. formation they tried to stay enough.

Sleep is one of the awake learning. Most stu- A student’s dream most important essentials dents would rather sacrifice is for teachers to commuin life, nicate and it The late start schedule with classes starting w i t h is ne- at 8:30a.m. is a good change, but it is giving e a c h glected other students an excuse to stay up later. because about s t u t h e dents prioritize getting their their health and sleep, in- amount of homework they work done over taking care stead of suffer the academic assign or even the due dates of their own health. consequences. of projects and the day of

It is an unhealthy The late start tests. Talking to each other cycle for students to be de- schedule with classes start- would make sure that stuprived of so much sleep. ing at 8:30a.m. is a good dents are not being overThey wake up exhausted change, but it is giving stu- worked and allow them every morning and find dents an excuse to stay up to live a healthy lifestyle, themselves in a bad mood later. Sometimes, when while maintaining their with no to little motivation they know that they have grades, activities, and other to participate in class or do more time to do something, responsibilities.

Private college counselors are an unfair advantage Emma Tsui Staff Writer @TheNDBCatalyst

The wealthy often bathe in their riches by flaunting their luxury items, such as cars, clothes, houses, and more. However, another luxury item that is starting to be noticed is access to private college counselors, consultants, and tutors. This gives them an edge in college admissions and a way to get ahead of the game.

Affluent families are able and willing to spend thousands of dollars on consultants who make suggestions on the choices that their children should make. Whether it be which classes to take, the types of extracurricular activities they should do, which service trips to go on, and more. These are all factors that will add the most

weight to an application. college counselor. attention to each of their

Some may ar- While most high students, whereas the gue that all students have school counselors are deep- wealthy can hire private a fair approach in college ly committed to serving college counselors, consuladmissions because low-to- their students, they cannot tants, and tutors for unlimmiddle-income students do possibly allocate enough ited help for their children. have access to high school individual attention to each Whether or not to counselors who help guide of their students nor even say this advantage is unthem fair is through Whether it be which classes to take, the types of another the col- extracurricular activities they should do, which q u e s lege adtion beservice trips to go on, and more. mission cause, p r o in the cess. While it is true that come close to the amount end, the wealthy are not many students rely on their of attention that a student necessarily cheating, but high school counselors, with a private college coun- only using their expensive it does not make up for selor receives. resources where low-tothe advantage that many F u r t h e r m o r e , middle-income students wealthy families have in many schools do not have cannot. perfecting the children’s an adequate amount of resume through a private counselors to direct enough

page 5

theCATALYST NOTRE DAME HIGH SCHOOL’S STUDENT NEWSPAPER

EDITORIAL STAFF EDITOR IN CHIEF Parker Daley MANAGING EDITOR Amelia Kyle NEWS EDITOR Victoria Giomi OPINION EDITOR Caitlin Earnshaw ASSISTANT ARTS & LIFE EDITOR Peyton Daley SPORTS EDITOR Paige Clarke PHOTO EDITOR Natalie Beier STAFF WRITERS Victoria Bartels Delaney Fox Mia Hernstadt Allyson Lawrence Bianca Lopez Kaitlyn Lopez Caroline McCoy Zoe Spencer Claire Tierney Emma Tsui Annalee Wolfe FACULTY ADVISOR Robert Rojas

ABOUT THE CATALYST

The Catalyst is a student-run newspaper that is published seven times a year in print and 24/7 online at www.TheNDBCatalyst.com for the Notre Dame High School community.

EDITORIAL POLICY The Catalyst accepts unsolicited letters from students, faculty, staff, and alumni as well as press releases from on and off-campus organizations, but cannot guarantee publication.

It reserves the right to edit or reject submissions. The views expressed in the Opinion section do not reflect the views of The Catalyst, NDB, the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur, or the Archdiocese of San Francisco, but are solely the views of the writer. Unsigned editorials reflect the opinion of The Catalyst.

CONTACT US The Catalyst Notre Dame High School 1540 Ralston Avenue Belmont, California 94002 Phone: (650) 595-1913 Email: TheCatalystNDB@ gmail.com

What’s your opinion? Tell us at TheNDBCatalyst.com

Website: www.

TheNDBCatalyst.com Social Media / Instagram & Twitter: @TheNDBCatalyst

page 6

FEATURE

Teen vaping culture takes its toll

Vaping. It has become a widespread topic of discussion seemingly overnight as health officials, parents, schools, and the government have been forced to take note, thanks to the epidemic of vaping-related illnesses and deaths. Each of these stories is designed to represent the different voices of the NDB community as well as inform readers about vaping. As a whole, they encompass a wide variety of experiences and perspectives on e-cigarette use.

From Page 1 others speculate that many vaping products have been tampered with or poisoned by e-cigarette dealers. The majority of the victims of the epidemic were under the age of 21 at the time of their death, which means that many of them only had access to e-cigarettes through their friends, untrustworthy dealers, and even the black market. Therefore, it is unclear whether the true harm has come from poisoned or tainted vapes, or the nicotine itself.

This unanticipated epidemic has not only shocked and saddened the teenagers and their families of the nation, but has also terrified many teen vapers to the point where they feel the need to quit. The e-cigarette market has been negatively affected by the ample supply of articles and

news segments provided by the media, as the coverage has driven hundreds of buyers away from buying vape products as a whole.

On September 25, Juul CEO Kevin Burns abruptly stepped down from his position as concerns over the safety of vaping began to arise.

Juul has also stopped selling all fruit-flavored vape products online and has made them available only for purchase in-stores. The government has also discussed banning e-cigarettes in order to protect underaged citizens, with states such as Massachusetts, Michigan, and New York already taking action by banning or placing higher taxes on vape products.

Some argue that banning all products may end up creating a more dangerous situation, as it will cause the sale of untrust-

worthy black market vapes and e-cigarettes to rise. On the other hand, banning these products may drastically decrease e-cigarette use amongst all Americans, but especially those who are underage.

Overall, the death-by-vaping epidemic has hit the nation with a wave of concern, shock, and motivation to take action against all vaping and use of e-cigarettes. While many argue that vaping is a safer alternative to cigarette use, nobody can truly identify its long-term or short-term effects, which these recent deaths may be proving.

Therefore, in order to avoid any potential consequences, it is advised to stay away from all vape and e-cigarette products – nobody truly knows the toll it could take on its users.

Vaping survivor shares story online

by Ellen Weiksner Contributing Writer

Read more stories at TheNDBCatalyst.com

Maddie Nelson, an 18-year-old girl from Utah, is one of over 1000 teens to become subject to a vape-related illness.

Ever since Juul first released flavored e-juice, teenagers have become addicted to the product all over the country.

As of October 20, 26 of these cases have resulted in death.

Why people are dying as a consequence of vaping is still undetermined, but professionals are currently conducting research to investigate.

To encourage other teens to quit this dangerous habit, Nelson has spoken out by sharing her story on Facebook.

Nelson, like many other teens, quickly became addicted to vaping from being exposed to the extreme amount of nicotine found in e-juice.

Over the course of three years, Nelson vaped daily.

The negative consequences started to catch up with her when she began to experience nausea and chest pain frequently.

On July 26, what started as severe back and kidney pain eventually led to a medically induced coma. Since Nelson’s muscles deteriorated at

PHOTO COURTESY OF FACEBOOK.COM

Maddie Nelson vaped daily for three years. such a rapid rate, it took a few months for her to learn how to walk again.

Doctors later diagnosed Nelson with acute eosinophilic pneumonia originating from her daily e-juice intake.

After the hospitalization, Nelson lost thirty pounds from the coma, but gained a new perspective from her first-hand experience of the real costs of vaping.

“I am sharing my story so you all are aware that there is something crazy in these pens that is not safe and almost cost me my life” Nelson posted on Facebook on September 17. “After going through that, I would never touch a

vape again.”

Nelson shares her story with the hope that her experience will drive other teens to quit vaping.

After reaching millions of people on Facebook, she has had an impact that will hopefully encourage her peers to restrain from vaping.

“It makes me sad that people who vape, especially teenagers, are oblivious to what chemicals they are ingesting” junior Leah Lad said.

“These chemicals are clearly life-threatening and I hope her story resonates with addicted teenagers to quit.”

FEATURE

Voices: Teenagers get real about vaping

page 7

The Catalyst sat down with a few NDB students to get their perspective on e-cigarette use The Catalyst (TC): Do you feel that vaping has had a large impact on your life?

Student #1 (S#1): Honestly, I don’t think it has. It’s never been something that has taken a toll on my academics or anything. It’s kind of just been a thing that I do recreationally.

Student #2 (S#2): No, I don’t think so.

Student #3 (S#3): It didn’t really impact it until the beginning of this year.

TC: How often do or did you vape?

S#1: A few times a month. I had a few devices, but I wouldn’t use them unless I was with someone else because I knew that it was unhealthy and whatnot. So, I made sure I was restraining myself.

I tried to keep it down to like maybe two or three times a month.

S#2: Once a week, I don’t know. It depends. It’s just a social thing.

S#3: Not that often. Only when I hang out with friends.

TC: Did it affect your academic or athletic performance or your relationship with family or friends?

S#1: It took a toll on my athletic performance because it was harder for me to breathe. I think with my friends, it kind of strengthened it, because it made me feel like I fit in more, which is sad, but, you know, you feel like you’re part of the group.

S#2: I hope not. I don’t think so. My family does not know. Nobody knows. It’s just a social thing.

S#3: It started to impact my athletic career a little bit.

TC: If you could go back in time, would you vape again? Do you wish you knew more about it before you started?

S#1: Yeah, I definitely wish I knew more. I think it wasn’t until more research came out that I realized this isn’t reversible and my lungs are probably all messed up now. Just knowing that there’s no way to revitalize my lungs after this, there’s no way for me to get better, I just want to maintain.

S#2: It’s kind of scary. Sometimes, when I say [addiction] as a joke, I realize that crippling nicotine addiction is a thing. I don’t know. It’s something that, when I’m not around it, it doesn’t matter. But, socially, you know, it’s just a social thing.

S#3: I wish I had known more before starting.

TC: Was it easy to buy vape products?

S#1: It was pretty easy. I had friends that would have friends that would deal stuff. So, it was easy for me. Also, the neighborhood that I live in, there’s a lot of kids. So, a lot of people my age.

S#2: You know, after awhile, you kind of know where to go or what to do. So, it’s not hard anymore.

S#3: Very easy.

TC: What would you like to say to other students about vaping?

S#1: I think that a lot of people are joking about how they’re going to quit Juuling after all these studies are coming out. But, I think they’re missing the reality of it. And, it’s hard to know that there are people out there that are suffering from lung disease, but it’s hard to perceive it as more than just a number and think of it as “Okay, this could be me if I don’t stop right now.”

S#2: I would say that you don’t need to do it, especially with nic and stuff. That stuff is really scary, and I don’t think anyone should be doing nic freshman and sophomore year.

S#3: Don’t get into vaping; it’s hard to stop.

TC: What would you like to say to the school about vaping?

S#1: Vape is not the same thing as weed. You can’t get high off of vape. It won’t mess up my academic performance necessarily, whereas weed would.

S#2: Just chill out. The kids that are going to do it are going to do it, and the kids that aren’t going to do it aren’t going to do it. It’s no use making the kids that do it feel [expletive deleted] cause it’s gonna happen regardless. I just feel like there’s no need to make people feel bad because they’re not going to stop.

S#3: I’m gonna try to stop and I know it’s not good.

TC: Some teachers have been saying students are vaping in bathrooms and blowing it into the toilet or during class and blowing it into their backpacks. Thoughts?

S#1: Creativity. I know that Juul has nicotine in it. It makes you feel the need to vape more. So, going to those extents, like... you aren’t that addicted [where] you can’t not vape. You can live without vape. You can totally live without vape. I think that that’s just excessive. That’s just asking for attention at that point.

S#2: Oh, my God. That’s not true at all. That’s a false stereotype

that a lot of boomers have made up because they want to. Traditionally, boomers want to demonize our generation, and so they’re going to make everything extreme. People are not vaping in the classroom. They’re not blowing it into the toilet; the toilets smell disgusting! No one wants to spend any extra time in there than they don’t have to.

S#3: Yeah, definitely. I’ve gone to the bathroom multiple times and have just seen smoke go up. I myself did it at the beginning of the year just because I thought it was cool, but I learned don’t do that.

TC: Do you think that students vaping on campus is a big issue?

S#1: Not really. I wouldn’t consider it a big issue. They’re doing it at their own risk, and it’s affecting them. But, it hasn’t affected any of the girls around them. I don’t think it’s affecting the community as a whole.

S#2: No, it’s not a big issue at all. I’ve never seen anyone vape in the classroom. I’ve seen people like my friends at public school that are literally in class blowing clouds and their teachers are just turned around.

S#3: No, I think it’s a lesser issue here than compared to public schools and other schools.

TC: What level of involvement do you feel that the school should have in this issue?

S#1: I think that you should follow through with this whole issue as if it were the same thing as a cigarette. Have the same policies because it’s an electronic cigarette. So, if that means not smoking at school, then not vaping at school.

S#2: I don’t know. I just think it’s not a big issue at Notre Dame, and our school resources can definitely be allocated to something that’s actually going to have an impact as opposed to making adults that are out of touch feel like they’ve done something good with their lives, and they haven’t. I think our money should be spent towards doing something that will positively impact the school.

S#3: Yeah, I feel like they should be involved because it has become a lot more common over the years. So, I think this would take more of a stand to it because people are catching on to it and a lot more. It’s a lot more common now.

Perspectives: What educators think about vaping

Wendy Connolly, Social Sciences Teacher

TC: What do you know about vaping?

WC: I have limited understanding of vaping mainly from my own teenage son and what I’ve heard on the news, and it doesn’t sound like it’s a healthy way to live.

TC: What would you do if you found a student vaping here at NDB? WC: If I was to find a student vaping, I would have to follow procedure of the school and go to Ms. Bergholm to let them know, unfortunately, and hopefully persuade them to change their ways.

Alisia Bergholm,

Assistant Dean of Student Relations

TC: What is your opinion on vaping?

AB: I don’t like it. I think a lot of these young kids that are doing it aren’t educated on it. It’s not good for you. We lost a couple of family members to lung cancer. So, I don’t agree with vaping.

TC: What would you do if you caught a student vaping at school?

AB: I would bring them to my office and talk about why they decided to do it at school out of all the places, and they would have a consequence for vaping.

TC: What are the consequences?

AB: Possible one-day suspension.

And, I guess it depends on the severity of the case that they would have to do Saturday study tables.

Dr. Linda Kern, Associate Head of School

TC: What is your opinion on vaping?

LK: The thing that really concerns me is that it has nicotine in it. So, although some people were using it to stop smoking cigarettes, for young kids who are vaping, it’s giving them a nicotine addiction that actually leads to them, in many cases, smoking cigarettes.

And, I don’t think anybody is thinking about these things in advance.

TC: What would you do if you caught a student vaping?

LK: We would certainly refer them to Ms. Bergholm to have a conversation about the circumstances and determine appropriate consequences because, depending on whether it was the first time a student had been caught or something like that, the consequences might be different.

Stephen Bennett, San Mateo Cty. School Resource Officer

TC: What advice do you have for teens who vape and their parents?

SB: I give both parents and teens the same advice about vaping.

The biggest problem is the misconception that vape products are harmless because they come in fruit and other flavors that seem harmless. All vape products contain nicotine, one of the most addictive drugs known, and other harmful chemicals.

TC: Do you see more vaping than smoking now?

SB: I don’t have statistics, but my observation among the teen community is that vaping has more or less replaced cigarette smoking almost completely. I have not found cigarettes on a high school campus in almost two years.

ARTS & LIFE

page 8

Don’t like scary movies?

by Caroline McCoy Staff Writer

The Catalyst recommends the following for those of you don’t like scary movies, but want to get in the Halloween spirit.

Feeling nostalgic? Watch “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown” (1966)

This Peanuts’ cartoon has always been a family-friendly flick. From the iconic “I got a rock” quote from Charlie Brown to Linus’s belief in the Great Pumpkin, this movie is truly a classic anyone can watch while carving pumpkins or sitting by the fire on a chilly October evening.

Feeling creepy? Watch “Beetlejuice” (1988) / PG

Information compiled by Caitlin Earnshaw, Opinion Editor; Graphics by Canva and Victoria Giomi

This comedy-horror film directed by Tim Burton is certainly an iconic creepy movie. After a recently deceased couple is trapped inside their home, they are forced to coexist with the new family who lives there. Betelgeuse makes his appearance as a manipulative poltergeist.

This film portrays Burton’s creativity without being terrifying.

SCREENSHOT FROM YOUTUBE.COM

A scene from “Casper the Friendly Ghost” Feeling a little bit funny?

Watch “Hocus Pocus” (1993) / PG

Feeling silly? Watch “Casper the Friendly Ghost” (1995) / G

This hilarious movie focuses on a trio of evil and comedic witches who are resurrected in Salem, Massachusetts, centuries after being executed for practicing witchcraft.

Their chaotic energy runs rampant on Halloween night which only a group of young teenagers and an immortal cat can manage to stop. For a night-in with friends, watch this move to be filled with laughs.

This cute movie is filled with animated ghosts and a wholesome father-daughter relationship that transcends time. It follows an isolated ghost who befriends a girl when she moves into a ghost-infested house. It is a heartwarming movie that demonstrates how good can prevail over evil. It has comedic flair and is definitely a favorite to watch with your siblings or while you babysit.

So, what’s your favorite scary movie?

“Alien: Covenant” (2017) / R

“Carrie” (2013) / R

“In the remake, the plot was a lot more solidified, and the [female] roles were more realistic, rather than being viewed as objects. The plot twist at the end was also unexpected.” – Madelyn Stone, Sophomore

“I absolutely love the genre horror. I love getting scared because it is so thrilling.

Carrie is my favorite scary movie because it is very intriguing and action-filled, and it always keeps me on the edge of my seat.” – Brianna Nunn, Senior

“Coraline” (2009) / PG-13

“Hereditary” (2018) / R

“It’s my favorite movie to watch. I watch it almost every year toward Halloween because it really gets me in the spirit.”– Allison King, Freshman

“It’s incredibly frightening. It’s very calm for the first 3/4 of the movie, and then everything ties together to make a terrifying ending.” – Jolie Orban, Junior

“A Nightmare on Elm Street” (1984) / R

“The Purge” (2013) / R

“Freddy Krueger is the classic horror film villain. There’s something genuinely scary about a monster who can get you in your dreams.” – Robert Rojas, English teacher

“This is my favorite scary movie because it brings horror into real life. I know most horror movies have people killing other people, but this one is just spookier because of the terrifying masks people wear.” – Chloe McGraw, Sophomore

“The Shining” (1980) / R

“Us” (2019) / R

“‘The Shining’ is my favorite scary movie since it was the first truly scary movie I had watched, and I liked the suspense and storyline.” – Caramia Christensen, Freshman

“I love this movie because it uses the horror genre and gently sprinkles it with comedy to make us take a closer look at our own society and biases. The story is one long and multi-layered metaphor...” – Dr. Linda Kern, Associate Head of School

Information compiled by Victoria Bartels, Staff Writer; Graphics and Photos by The Catalyst Editorial Staff

ARTS & LIFE

page 9

Review: Rolling Loud Festival, Bay Area

Thoughts from a hip hop lover Parker Daley Editor in Chief @TheNDBCatalyst

If you are familiar with the Bay Area music festival scene, you will likely have heard of Rolling Loud Bay Area, the self-proclaimed “dopest hip hop fest in the game.” I had the opportunity to attend this event as both a reporter and a fan of the music performed.

The headliners for this festival were G-Eazy, Future, Migos, and Lil Uzi Vert. In addition to being excited to watch these “big names” live, I was looking forward to Juice WRLD, Lil Yachty, 21 Savage, DaBaby, and Trippie Redd.

All of the artists definitely performed. One thing that I really enjoyed was that each artist had a setlist that covered their top songs from the entirety of their career. With an average 30-40 minute performance, there was not enough time for each artist to perform their latest album or all of their hits. However, I felt that every artist that I saw covered nearly every song that I would have been really excited to see live.

In addition, I felt that the event was really well organized. Get-

ting in and out of the parking, through the gates, and around the grounds was relatively easy and quick. There was also a large emphasis placed on security and safety with multiple medical tents and many police officers around the entire facility.

I also found it interesting that many of the rappers had a message relating to current societal issues. The most prominent of these came in the sets from 21 Savage and Future. The former played a video about his controversy and arrest halfway through his set, covering his detainment and threatened deportation from U.S. Customs and Immigration officials. The latter ended his performance with a powerful montage video of racism throughout U.S. history. I would not have expected this from these artists, but I thought that it brought an important message to the stage, and gave a meaning to their music beyond the lyrics.

Overall, I definitely enjoyed my experience at Rolling Loud Bay Area, and would recommend it to any rap-lover.

Thoughts from a hip hop hater Amelia Kyle Managing Editor @TheNDBCatalyst

As someone who had never been to a music festival before, I was incredibly nervous to go to Rolling Loud. I was expecting the worst: terribly-loud music, super aggressive people, overpriced food – I honestly thought I was going to be miserable.

But, I was going for the overall experience and to gain more life experience (and the street cred). Luckily, what I got was different than what I had anticipated.

On the first day, I remember my heart was racing as we were walking in through the front gates. I was incredibly nervous, and the huge amount of people there me made me fear for my life. Once we reached the crowd, I became genuinely scared. We were all packed in like sardines, and everybody was trampling and pushing into each other. I felt trapped, so I had a panic attack, and we had to leave the audience. I was almost certain that I wouldn’t return for the second day.

But, thanks to my amazingly understanding friends who were willing to accommodate for my happiness, I decided to enjoy the rest of the night by

staying towards the back of the crowd and dancing with more space around me. I was having a fantastic time, so I came back the next day.

I realized some things: the food was indeed overpriced, but surprisingly really tasty; the music was loud, but fun to dance to; the people in the crowd were aggressive towards the front, but more polite towards the back. On the second day, at least one of my friends always stayed with me and made sure that I was alright. I had a great time without having to worry for my safety. The rest of the night was a bunch of dancing, getting to know my friends better, meeting and talking to new people, and learning to tolerate rap music.

Overall, I could not be happier that I attended Rolling Loud.

I had a total blast, and I’m so glad I got to live through such an exciting, action-packed experience. Since I had such a great time there, I’m now more willing to try new things and go to events that are out of my comfort zone. Rolling Loud broke my shell, and I am so grateful for it.

The sound of student music Review: Mario Kart Tour

by Ally Lawrence Staff Writer

by Claire Tierney Staff Writer

Music is a large part of NDB students’ free time. The most common types listened to are rap, country, and EDM.

NDB students tend to lean towards a variety of genres including rap, country, and EDM, going to most of their concerts at Shoreline Amphitheater or Oracle Arena. Affrunti, Lawrence, Fletcher, and Britton share their passions for music and what it means to them, giving details on some of their favorite artists and who they have seen in concert.

Stella Affrunti, a Freshman at NDB, gives more detail on her favorite type of music: country.

“I like Luke Bryan and Florida Georgia Line,” Affrunti said about her favorite country music artists, as well as the concerts she has seen by them. “I just went to Florida Georgia Line, Luke Bryan over the summer, and Zac Brown Band.”

Sophomore Caroline Lawrence and junior Emily Fletcher talk about rap, their favorite type of

Mario Kart Tour is a kart racing mobile game that has recently made headlines for becoming Nintendo’s biggest mobile launch in the first week with a staggering 90 million downloads, according to app analytics platform, Sensor Tower.

With a simple link of a Nintendo account, one can race against an array of Nintendo characters in a series of tracks that require one to drift, glide, and collect power-ups in order to rack up points that will add to their total score. The game is completely free to play, even coming with a two-week trial that allows one to use the Gold Pass, which offers in-game benefits like “Gold Gifts,” special badges, and the fastest game mode: 200cc.

U n f o r t u n a t e l y, however, Mario Kart Tour is yet to offer a multiplayer option that would allow for a player to race alongside friends or other real-life racers. Nintendo has definitely tried to make it seem as though one is playing against other live players

PHOTO COURTESY OF FLCKR CREATIVE COMMONS

What is on your music playlist?

music. Lawrence claims some of her most favored artists are Nav, Ian Diore, 21 Savage, A Boogie wit da Hoodie, and Travis Scott, whereas Fletcher claims hers are Lil Teejay and Lil Tecca.

Senior Bridget Britton sheds light on a different favorite type of music: EDM. After going to Snow Globe, a three-day music festival during New Years in South Lake Tahoe, Britton states that her top

artist picks are Louis the Child, RL Grime, and Loud Luxury.

Most students tend to listen to rap music because it gives them energy and makes them hyped up for the day. Others listen to electronic dance music because they are in the mood to dance and feel a certain rush when they listen to these songs. Country listeners feel happier after listening to this music because they enjoy the tunes.

SCREENSHOT FROM MARIO KART TOUR APP

Nintendo adapts itself for portable devices.

by using unique screen names that a real person might use and by occasionally having duplicate racers and/or karts which often happens when playing other Mario Kart games. For the moment, the multiplayer option in the menu is grayed out, making the “Friends” tab the only aspect of the game so far to allow players to interact through means of adding each other’s ID numbers and comparing position in

the game’s ranking system.

The actual release day of a multiplayer option has yet to be announced which could potentially mean months until its eventual implementation into the game.

Despite this lack of a multiplayer option, the game’s addictive nature reigns true as ever since its release, thousands have been playing nonstop, thoroughly enjoying what the app has to offer.

Connect with the Catalyst on Instagram and Twitter @TheNDBCatalyst

page 10

SPORTS

Water Polo: NDB defeats Carlmont HS, 8-5

by Paige Clarke Sports Editor

On October 21, the varsity water polo team defeated Carlmont HS’s Scots in their home pool for the second time this season.

Carlmont began the game with possession, but NDB’s quick defense was able to gain control soon after, and senior Nicolette Bolich scored the Tiger’s first of eight goals within the first two minutes of the quarter. Thirty seconds later, senior Hannah Kawar scored the second goal, and then had her first of two ejections three minutes into the game. In the goal, senior Annalee Wolfe’s quick defense caused her to block the Scot goal and get the ball back the Tigers. With a minute and a half left in the quarter, senior Callie Malone scored NDB’s third goal.

In the last thirty seconds of the game, the Scots were able to make their first goal scored by Ilyana Zlobinski. The Tigers finished the quarter ahead, with three total goals against Scot’s one.

The second quarter was not as smooth for the Tigers as they had Kawar’s second ejection two minutes and twenty seconds into the game.

Carlmont called a timeout, then proceeded to score two goals, scored by Zlobinsky and Day. Both teams were tied at the half, cranking up the pressure for the second half.

“There was a little bit of tension in the pool, and I think that just got to our heads and our mentality, but ultimately we were able to pull through,” Kawar said.

With stakes high, both teams were ready to put up a good fight for

PAIGE CLARKE / THE CATALYST

The Battle of Belmont: NDB and Carlmont compete for the second time during the regular season. the win, making the third quarter highly eventful.

Less than thirty seconds into the quarter, Kawar scored her second goal, bringing the Tigers back into the lead. One minute later, senior Danya Rau had her first personal foul.

Two and a half minutes into the quarter, Kawar scored another goal for the tigers. Zlobinsky then drew Carlmont’s first foul.

Wolfe was able to catch multiple of Carlmont’s attempted goals, contributing to NDB’s strong and hardworking defense. In total, Wolfe blocked fourteen of Carlmont’s goal attempts throughout the game. Four minutes into the quarter, Malone scored her second goal before senior Avery McGlinchey was ejected.

This did not set the Tigers back as Kawar scored yet another goal. Wolfe continued to block the Scot’s attempts to score, but with

only five seconds left on the clock, Zlobinsky scored her third Scot goal. This was not enough to put the Scots into a competitive position against NDB’s fast-acting defense. At the end of the quarter, NDB was ahead seven to four.

The fourth quarter quickly started with Zlobinsky scoring Carlmont’s fifth and final goal less than twenty seconds into the final quarter. Twelve seconds later, Kawar scored her fifth goal for the Tigers, giving them a three-point lead ahead of the Scots.

Wolfe, along with the rest of her team, was able to block all of Carlmont’s offensive attempts for the rest of the game. The game ended 8 to 5 with NDB taking home another win against Carlmont.

After the game, the Catalyst was able to talk with players from each team on the strengths and

things that, as an assistant coach, I didn’t need to worry about, and I’ll be taking care of now,” he said.

“After such a

our freshman year and having such confidence going into our final year, but even without him as our coach, I think we can still bring the same level of competition this year’s season with Mr. Currier taking over as head coach,” senior Avery Stump said.

“Personally, I have been coached by Mr. Currier since freshman year in hurdles, and his experience with track will be very helpful for all the athletes on the team going into this season. I look forward to this season, as it is my last one for NDB, and I know that Mr. Currier and the rest of the coaching staff will not let us down!” Stump said.

Currier is ready to accept his new challenge and take track season headon. Go Tigers!

Currier named Head Track Coach

by Paige Clarke and Caitlin Earnshaw Editors

English teacher Adam Currier was named NDB’s Head Track Coach last week.

Currier is looking forward to this role and the responsibilities that follow.

“Since high school, I’ve wanted to run a high school program, and so I’m very excited to finally get the opportunity,” Currier said.

Moving from assistant to head coach, he will now have to organize events, ensure team discipline, and oversee the dynamic in addition to his focus on training athletes for hurdlers and distance running, which he has done in the past for both NDB and Mercy Burlingame.

“These are the

NATALIE BEIER / THE CATALYST

Coach Adam Currier

successful three seasons of track and field at Notre Dame, hearing about losing the head coach was pretty sad; especially after we had improved so much from

PHOTO COURTESY OF IRENE MALONE

The varsity water polo team are onto the PAL playoffs. weaknesses of their teams during the game.

“I felt that our team did really well on our defense. We were able to shut down their plays really quickly, and they barely had any offensive advantage,” Kawar said, who scored a total of five goals

in the game.

“I think that some of the strengths that we showed was our perseverance because the playing was a little ‘dirty,’” Carlmont HS junior Emily Livesay said. “And, we did stand our ground, and I thought that defensively we

were very strong today, and I thought we did a really good job on that.”

Varsity water polo has advanced onto CCS and will continue to show quick defense, strong offensive skills, and teamwork in the following weeks.

by Emma Tsui Staff Writer

To get to the matches, the golf athletes are driven in the school vans by their coach.

For each match,

ing in the weight room for the season. Most of the exercises that she completes are arm related ones. For example, exercises using a dumbbell or the pull-down machine.

She returns home at around 7p.m. after a long day of school and practice.

Although Wei experiences the challenge of getting back late and having to do lots of homework assigned by both AP classes and regular classes, she does her best to balance school and golf, by getting a lot of school work done on the weekends.

Golf: A day in the life of a student athlete

A typical day in the life of NDB golf athlete, Felicia Wei, begins when she wakes up and drives to school. She then attends classes before heading to either practice at Mariners Point Golf Center in Foster City, California or a match, after seventh block on B days and after third block on A days.

At a typical practice, she practices hitting golf balls at the driving range. The equipment that she uses is the Ping golf clubs. Her favorite golf club is her driver.

At practices leading up to a match, she focuses on skills that she wants to improve on, such as short game, long shot, and putting.

PHOTO COURTESY OF @NDBATHLETICS

Felicia Wei

the team takes six players to participate. In golf, the player or team with the lowest score wins.

Aside from practices, she completes train-

@NDBAthletics

SPORTS

What’s happening in Fall sports?

Cross Country

Pom

“Performing at the SVE showcase was the first time the pom team has performed our competition routine. It was such a great experience and the crowd’s energy pushed us to perform better than we have at any practice,” said senior Isabelle Collins.

“It was nice to be able to represent NDB in our Dig Pink shirts, showing our support for Breast Cancer Awareness, at a really big meet. We had all just raced this course two days before for our first WBAL, but my team all powered through and did very well,” said sophomore Peyton Daley.

The Varsity squad got to practice with Redeemer Cheer Squad at Silicon Valley Elite.

It was fun to practice with the girls and watch them learn and love cheer and practice a super amazing routine,” said junior Ailish Reed.

Tennis

Volleyball

”This year was my first year playing tennis and I am really happy I decided to tryout for the team. It was a lot of fun and I can’t wait for next year!” said sophomore Chloe McGraw.

“Playing in the senior game as a transfer was a great and unreal experience.

I have only spent one season playing volleyball at Notre Dame, but I feel like I have been here and playing all four years. I would not want to spend my last indoor volleyball season with any other team,” said senior Lauren Harrison.

Featured alumna athlete: Riley Brownfield With fourteen offered sports teams at NDB, it is to no surprise that many student athletes continue to play beyond their high school career. After playing for the school, many students from the class of 2019 were able to continue their passion at the collegiate level. The Catalyst connected with Riley Brownfield to ask about her experience as a college commit.

The Catalyst (TC): How was the recruiting process in your opinion?

Riley Brownfield (RB): To me, the recruiting process was fun because I was looking at all these different schools to swim at. Some parts were stressful, but most of it was exciting.

I was in the “recruiting process” for 2 years, but there is not always something happening during those 2 years.

TC: What is the most stressful part of being a student athlete? Why? RB: In both high school and college, the most stressful part is time management. You can do everything, but you can’t do everything well. Swim is super important to me though, so I don’t mind having to make sacrifices for it.

TC: How often do you practice?

PHOTO COURTESY OF RILEY BROWNFIELD

Riley Brownfield (second from left) poses with her Chapman University swim teammates.

RB: Between September to December, we have 2 hour practices

every day, except Sunday. Then, in January, we have two 2 hour practices everyday. Our weight lifting/dryland is two times a week.

TC: What was it like trying to keep up with school work, college apps, and the recruiting process during your senior year?

RB: It was really easy for me to balance it all because, at that point, the recruiting process was over and I was just waiting to find out what schools I got into. I just had to stay focused on my school work.

TC: How has your transition into Chapman been?

RB: It has been really easy. I had no idea how the transition would be, but it has been great.

Chapman is the best!

TC: Do you have any advice for those planning or in the midst of college recruitment?

RB: I would say that you should be open to all kinds of schools that talk to you. You should also not get too wrapped up in what coaches talk to you or don’t because some schools will drop you randomly and you can always be a walk on.

TC: What are some pros and cons of the recruitment process?

RB: Well, my recruitment process was different than other athletes because coaches know the exact kind of athlete you are based on your times. This means that it was really easy for me to send my info to schools and have them analyze me. A pro to the recruiting process for me was that it was really straight forward. There were not really any cons.

@NDBAthletics

Share with a family member or friend when you are done reading

Cheer

page 11

page 12

NEWS

Spirit week is finally here

A day in the life of a Tiger

Just some of the things that have happened to our readers over the past months...

PHOTO COURTESY OF STEPHANE BARILE

So, what do teachers do when students have the day off, but still have to come to school? Faculty and staff discuss how to become a more gender inclusive school during a presentation on gender identity during the professional development day in mid-October.

From Page 1 retreat,” Dean of Student Life and Leadership Rachel Shanley said.

As a result, “Fridays are for the Boys” was moved to Monday, canceling the formerly announced “Pajama Day” and renaming it “Bro Day.” Although there was some minor upset from the student body, many students seemed okay with the new day.

“I understand why they canceled ‘Pajama Day,’ and overall, I’m really excited for ‘Bro Day’ because it gives me a chance to express my inner Serra boy,” senior Alex Loos said.

Several sophomores show-off the e-girl aesthetic.

“To be honest, it pink!” doesn’t really matter be- Dingbat Day is the cause, either way, I was go- final day of Spirit Week, ing to wear sweats,” senior and many students are fiJade Costello said. nalizing their costumes and

The last three getting ready for the rally. theme days of Spirit Week “Halloween is for are “70’s and 80’s,” “On sure my favorite day! I’m Wednesdays, We Wear so excited to dress up with Pink,” and Dingbat Day, all of my friends and show and all of them are going everyone our awesome to get a lot of attention. Al- costume,” said senior Josie though they seem like easy Rencoret. dress-up days, many stu- Something new to dents are making plans for this year’s Spirit Week are their outfits. the daily costume contests.

“I know many Rather than the Dingbat people think ‘On Wednes- Day costume contest where days, We Wear Pink’ is a winners are announced boring spirit day, but I am later that day at the rally, ready to go all out!” senior ASB introduced a new set Callie Malone said. “Catch of contests with the opporme wearing everything tunity to earn more spirit

NATALIE BEIER / THE CATALYST

points. Every day, a secret staff member looks at students’ costumes and, at the end of the day, five students with the best costumes will earn extra spirit points for their classes.

Social Sciences teacher Wendy Connolly went undercover for Thursday’s “VSCO Girl versus E-Girl Day” and picked out freshman Krista Mananquil, sophomore Riley Fisher, juniors Mia Adao and Chloe Powell, and senior Adelaide Coulson.

Spirit points can also be earned everyday by checking-in at lunch and on the last day at the Dingbat Day rally.

Dig Pink Night brings cancer awareness

by Caroline McCoy Staf Writer

Every October, the student body looks forward to one event: the Dig Pink Volleyball game.

It is one of the highest-attended sports events during the fall season. Girls in every grade eagerly await buying T-shirts and announcing to their friends that they are coming to the game. The school spirit floods the halls with posters, chatter amongst friend groups, and daily announcements from Dig Pink Club President Olivia Miller. From as early as September, Miller has been sending out PSAs to students inviting them to join the club and work to put on this amazing event.

Dig Pink was created by varsity volleyball player Tammy Byrne (‘17) to raise awareness and funds for breast cancer research after the death of her mom, who was a victim of breast cancer. The club leadership position passed on to Emily Wellman (‘19) and is presently held by Miller.

Positions of the club range from Miller’s level of involvement, which requires many hours

PHOTO COURTESY OF JUDE LOEFFLER

The limit does not exist! The Math team works together on a few word problems during a lunch time meeting in preparation for the American Mathematics Competitions.

EDITORIAL STAFF / THE CATALYST

Varsity volleyball players Miranda Chan, Kelly Schackel, and Shea Hanson have lunch in the Dining Room. On Thursday evening, the team won its last regular game of the season against Sacred Heart Prep, 3-2. It continues to the first round of the CCS playoff on Saturday.

PHOTO COURTESY OF YNEZ MANALO

The 118 ninth graders gather together as a class at the Freshman Retreat last Friday. They participated in several sisterhood bonding activities, listened to juniors share their personal stories, and shared in small groups throughout the day.

EDITORIAL STAFF / THE CATALYST

Scenes from Dig Pink Night: NDB wins over Notre Dame San Jose, 3-0.

of hard work and organization, to people who simply want to assist with fundraising and spreading awareness, such as senior Rachel Giovando.

“I helped to paint posters,” Giovando said.

This was her way of showing her involvement in the club. “I watched the game, it was amazing. I think it brought up the morale of the team, because they fought really hard to win and for the cause,” she said.

Another member, Brianna Nunn, wanted to

be even further involved.

“I was in charge of selling merchandise, such as bows, giving out stickers, and selling t-shirts,” she said.

This merchandise funds the necessary cancer research in order to progress the technology necessary to save lives.

Students that are not a part of the club, such as senior Elizabeth Mendoza, are an example of how much impact the club has on the general student body. “I really enjoyed the game. That was really fun

you know, like everyone’s decked out. And, it’s just a great way to show your school spirit,” she said.

The community reflects fondly on the annual Dig Pink game. The amazing turnout, participation from club members, and school spirit are examples of awareness for an important cause. Whether one wants to be heavily invested in the club’s mission or one simply loves watching a volleyball game, the Dig Pink game is the place to be in October.

EDITORIAL STAFF / THE CATALYST

Senior Alysa Villanueva and other members of the I Am Diverse club make marigold paper flowers for the Dia de los Muertos or Day of the Dead altar in the Reflection Space.

Share your “A day in the life...” photos with TheCatalystNDB@gmail.com