THE COLLEGIAN FOR THE STUDENTS BY THE STUDENTS
BY HANNAH SEALEY
Every school term welcomes a new beginning, whether it is in the form of teachers, subjects, students or timetables. A new term is the perfect opportunity to start new habits, set new goals and discover new things about
excellence in order to 'leave new marks for those who are to follow' . We must embrace the 'newness' of this school term and year, embrace the new obstacles along with celebrating the new achievements.
yourself and the environment around
In light of the new beginning, our school
you.
newspaper, The Collegian is back to
In these unprecedented times the word
assist in creating a support system for
'new' has been clothed with stigmas and
the students of Harrison College. It will
uncomfortable circumstances. Phrases
serve the purpose of rewarding
like 'New Normal' have flooded the
achievements, acknowledging
earth and have been potentially
excellence and providing tips and
intimidating, forcing us to acclimatize to
relevant information to all students.
situations that were uneasy and awkward. However, as Harrisonians we have taken on the challenge to overcome obstacles and produce
THE COLLEGIAN
ISSUE 1 OCTOBER 2021
IN THIS ISSUE Meeting our New Leaders Club Acknowledgements Stress Relief Tips Support a Kolij Business
This edition's theme revolves around new beginnings and conquering the obstacles that may arise during this online school term.
Pictures by: Nia Morris
ISSUE 1 //OCTOBER 2021
MEET OUR NEW LEADERS! Who are our Head Prefects? Haille Skinner & Luke Thompson
BY ZARIA ELCOCK
The 2021-2022 prefect body of Harrison College is ready to serve as the bridge between students and teachers. These honourable students have been given the role of up-keeping and supervising the student body. The co-heads of this body consist of the Head Boy and Head Girl. For the benefit of new students who have not had the chance to interact with them, as well as returning ones who are unsure of
Luke Thompson
Haille Skinner
“I know that a lot of people struggle with mental health, so I really want that to be addressed more. I would like that every student feels like they have a place and it’s not like a subset of people who are getting through and then everyone else is getting by. I would like to see that everyone thrives in the school environment.” –Haille Skinner Luke shares her opinion. As it undoubtedly is going to be
playing sports and he difficult on students who enjoy
encourages them to stick together and do their best to
who was bestowed the title, this article will introduce them!
of the challenges and get through the year, regardless
The students named Haille Skinner and Luke Thompson, both age
difficulty.
17, are this year’s Head Girl and Boy respectively. While studying Biology, Physics, Chemistry and Caribbean Studies, Haille occupies the position as the Vice President of the Harrison College Key Club and also serves on the District Service Committee. In her free time, she listens to music and watches Netflix along with movies like those set in the 1800s. Interestingly, Haille also takes part in a reading programme which aims to help children learn to read. Luke is studying Management of Business, Economics,
“This year, there is COVID-19. It’s going to be a lot harder to be at school physically and a lot of people struggle with studying online, so I want to do something to ensure that no one is falling behind in classes.” - Luke Thompson
Advice to returning students:
Advice to new students:
"I would suggest that if you have not
"It’s definitely going to be a new
looked at universities, do so
experience now, because you’re
IMMEDIATELY. If you have any idea of
going to be in a much bigger
what career you would like to pursue,
institution, but I’d say that Harrison
make sure that you are covering all the
College has a very close-knit
subjects required for university courses.
community. Take advantage of it. I
friends would describe him as trustworthy, honest and reliable.
I used most of my free periods to do
know it’s not going to be the same
Luke plays four instruments; guitar, violin, saxophone and bass.
homework or start assignments and that
as if we were there physically, but
really helped. The workload, you might
all the same, everyone will be there
not think it is a lot but I can promise you
to support you. Reach out! Get
One of Haille’s goals as Head Girl is to create a more inclusive and
the workload is far more than you could
involved in maybe any online
productive environment.
imagine. So just remain consistent, find
service clubs if that’s possible.
time for rest and if you need to, take a
Don’t let the online setting ruin
break, but don’t let things pile up. When
your first year, just enjoy to your
you see people sitting down crying over
fullest and welcome!"
CAPE, they’re not exaggerating."
-Luke Thompson
Entrepreneurship and Caribbean Studies. Additionally, he plays football and works with the Rotary Club of Barbados in feeding the needy, packing hampers and delivering to the less fortunate. He enjoys activities like tennis and cycling while interestingly, his
Reporter : Kaya Hinds Editor : Christiane Hennis
THE COLLEGIAN
-Haille Skinner
ISSUE 1 //OCTOBER 2021
2.Try “rubber ducking” No, I am not asking everyone to find their old bath toys. This is a problem solving technique often used by programmers, but we can adapt it to suit our needs. For instance, you have completed a math problem, but the solution sheet says it is incorrect. Simply, talk aloud through each line of your solution
BACK TO ONLINE SCHOOL !!!
as if explaining to an inanimate object such as a rubber duck. The hope is that hearing your thought process aloud will allow you to spot your mistake. This method can be adapted to many subjects.
By: Sarah Bisram
Here We Go Again: Online School A year of online school later and yet it feels like uncharted territory. We have heard tips such as finding a quiet place and developing a routine but they have failed to help completely navigate the stress of online school. For this reason, I have compiled a list of specific ways to stay engaged during this school year. 1. Improve focus with a distraction log
3. Stop burning the midnight oil Many of us are accustomed to “burning the midnight oil”. Not only is it notably harder to focus after a long day but you are likely to be tired the following morning which is not ideal for a test. Try dedicating dates and times to when you would like to complete each assignment and schedule breaks. That way you have a visual representation of your workload and it will become apparent that procrastination is not an option. 4. Actually make changes
Are you ever in class and randomly remember
In a recent anonymous survey featuring nineteen
you have to ask your mom to buy you some
Harrisonians from second to sixth form, a mixture of
pens? Maybe during Spanish you realise you
genders, 68% of respondents admitted to struggling to
need to add an assignment to your to-do list.
focus at home while 15% were able to focus, and the
Well you should try a distraction log. This is a
remainder were able to somewhat focus. The survey was
physical or digital notebook for jotting down
conducted by student reporter Zaria Hintzen. When
important reminders if they pop into your head
asked what changes they would be making to better
so you can return your focus to the task at
adapt to online school this year, 6 respondents replied
hand. N.B. keep things such as finishing a
no changes, while the remainder responded with broad
Netflix show off the distraction log; important
impersonal changes such as extra studying. Worthy of
reminders only. After class simply complete the
note is hard work attracts change. Currently, we are
tasks in the log.
tasked with effectively studying large amounts of
Overall, online school is not ideal, but it is here. So during
material after being robbed of certain study techniques like going to the library or even physically taking notes.
this year of uncertainty let us
Therefore, we have to experiment and see what works. It
all adopt some changes to
is frustrating, confusing and full of risk. But, we need to
make the situation a little more
make an effort to see what works and inevitably what
bearable. Good luck everyone.
does not work.
Reporter: Zaria Hintzen Editor: Kenya James
THE COLLEGIAN
ISSUE 1 //OCTOBER 2021
l e w d o d o g n g n e k e k c m c A A e n b b u ttss u l l CC By Rheanna Griffin
Here, at Harrison College, there are countless clubs and extra curriculums available to the students where they can develop their skills and talents, meet new people, improve social interaction skills, and pave a solid path to future success. In this issue, 2 such clubs will be acknowledged: The Chess Club and The Cadets.
Chess Club Club Chess
Our reporter, was able to speak with the president of the Chess Club, Amelia Valdez, an upper sixer. In this interview, Amelia Valdez shared that this club of approximately 45 current members, is all-inclusive, as it has a category for each form (from 1st - 6th) and 2 other categories: one for more experienced junior students and the other for more experienced senior students. In response to the Covid19 Pandemic, the Harrison College Chess Club continues to interact with each other via a Whatsapp group chat and a Google Classroom, managed by the Faculty Advisor, Ms. Nicholls, Coach Farley from NSC, Vice President, Yeshua Hill, and Amelia Valdez, herself. But that’s not it! They also do one Zoom call a week for each group with their coach and participate in tournaments over Zoom. Talk about taking advantage of social media platforms! Covid is not stopping this club from making its plans for the upcoming school year. Hosting more internal tournaments, the interschool tournament- provided that it is on this year, and increasing their membership are all in plans for the Chess Club. Interested in how well this club performs? Well, Ms. Valdez shared recent achievements of the HC Chess Club. In their last external tournament, they placed 2nd overall but won the Under-15 category. 5 teams were entered by Harrison College. Their excellent performances are something to be very proud of and congratulations go out to them on their achievements. As this club grows, we can be sure to expect more excellent representation by the team. In an effort to encourage the students of Harrison College to join, Amelia says, “I would say that it’s a great experience to be part of the club. You have the opportunity to meet people you might not have otherwise met and learn/see yourself improve in chess.” To become a part of this club, you can email either Ms. Nicholls, or Amelia via their schools’ email addresses and express your interest
Cadets Cadets
The Barbados Cadet Corps is a national youth organization within the School System, making its membership open to all secondary school students. It's a paramilitary organization that strives to create a sense of unity while teaching discipline, teamwork, leadership, and everyday skills. This is done through drills, map and compass, parades, hikes, summer camps, leadership courses, and much more. The club sets a foundation for children to prove their independence and be ready for life after secondary school. There are four branches of cadets: infantry, band, sea, and medic. The ranks for infantry are as listed: recruit, cadet, lance corporal, corporal, sergeant, staff sergeant, detachment sergeant major, cadet under officer, and cadet senior under officer. These ranks are common in band and medic, but in sea cadets, the rankings are different. Sea cadet ranks are recruit, ordinary seaman, able-bodied seaman, leading seaman, petty officer, chief petty officer, master chief petty officer, ensign, and ensign senior grade. Our reporter, spoke with upper sixer Corporal Wood J, who informed us about the recent operations of the club and how they have been affected by and adapting to Covid restrictions. Prior Covid, Corporal Wood played the role of a platoon commander for the recruits platoon. This required him to seek recruits and to integrate and teach them what a cadet is supposed to be. He introduced them to drill, map and compass, fieldcraft, and military knowledge. As a result of the Covid19 Pandemic, he no longer plays the role of platoon commander. He explains, “Since Covid, all of the platoons were put into one and Jordan is the highest rank so she is in charge.” He also shared that usually, at the rank of sergeant, you are then qualified for platoon commander, but due to his excellent star 4 qualifications and having been senior cadet instructor at the time, he was able to be platoon commander at a corporal rank. He continued to explain that covid has affected rank promotions, therefore, every member still holds their previous rank When asked about the plans for the upcoming school year, Corporal Wood stated that these are still ongoing, however, “a more scaled-back approach” will be made. This is in consideration of the fact that adequate teaching for such a physically and mentally demanding club cannot be achieved online. The main focus is on what can be done in the new online environment which is military knowledge and map and compass. Despite the challenges that this club faces due to the new online environment, the spirit of the club is executed through their efforts to keep things going. They still meet every Friday, online for one-hour training sessions. The way Sergeant Alleyne J sees it, she doesn’t think this is a reason for persons to be discouraged from joining cadets because when they resume physical activities it would take them a while to get back up on their feet. Having persons join before that time comes, would make the transition easier for them to regain their footing. She also did not fail to mention that even though it is very tough to carry out Cadets online, they have still been having fun and doing activities online via websites such as Quizizz. Unfortunately, recruits and cadets are still missing out on physical training, team building, summer camps, and more, and in the unforeseen future, this is taxing on the continued development of the club. The hope is for Covid to swiftly pass so that this club can resume its regular activities. Staying positive and using whatever resources they have are the greatest weapons that the Cadets could use at this time, proving their resilience, mental strength, and adaptation skills. Interested persons can email Captain Wallace, the Faculty Advisor and Sergeant Alleyne J from their school email addresses.
From left: Azaria Johnson 2nd, VP Yeshua Hill 1st and Gaybrianna Moore 3rd with prizes from an inter-school chess puzzle competition.
Image of Staff Sergeant Cook carrying the Barbados color, Sergeant Alleyne leading the #1 detachment and Corporal Wood carrying the Harrison College Colours
Reporter: Nia Morris Editor: Zan Valere
THE COLLEGIAN
ISSUE 1 //OCTOBER 2021
FIGHTING BRAIN CANCER THROUGH 3D MODELS by Emmanuel Sealey
CHEERS TO a special DOSE OF SCIENCE! by Jeremy Small
S SP PA AC CE E T TR RA AV VE EL L THIS COULD BE MEGA! Did you know that it takes 80,000 years to get to the nearest star from earth? Well, this 150-year-old concept is about to change that! Scientists may have just materialized the way to quicker space travel. Mach Effect Gravity Assist (MEGA) Drive may provide the technology we need to break through the barriers of science fiction and science fact. This newly developed real-life Impulse Drive System could be able to achieve remarkable speeds in timeframes once deemed to be uncharted territory. The MEGA Drive works by creating a stack of piezoelectric crystals alternatively lighter and heavier by implementing an electric current. By making an object heavier in one instant and then lighter in the next, a thrust can be created by applying the principle that “every reaction causes an equal and opposite reaction”. MEGA Drive is able to do this since, unlike a standard rocket, it doesn't permanently lose its “energy-producing crystals” by wasting them but rather they are simply pushed when heavy and pulled when light, hence creating momentum to move forward. Instead of ejecting burnt gases to create thrust, MEGA turns physics on its head to push the boundaries of mankind even further!
G GL LO OB BA AL L W WA AR RM MI IN NG G
UP TO 10%
That’s how much the gang-gang cockatoo’s beak size has increased since 1871. The term ‘shape-shifting’ refers to the evolution of an organism’s physical features. Due to climate change, animals around the world have been changing rapidly. Larger beaks, longer limbs, wider ears, many trends have noticed that the physical appearances of many animals are changing as the temperatures in their natural habitat increase. Animals require these adaptations to help them survive during unprecedented times as their environments begin to transform. Despite their ability to adapt, there is a level of concern that is rising since global temperatures are rising at such a rapid rate, natural selection may not be able to keep up, and potentially certain species can be wiped out entirely. As further research is carried out, we will begin to see the consequences of severe climate change and its devastating effects on many ecosystems around the world.
THE COLLEGIAN
Glioblastoma is the most aggressive (quickly spreading) brain tumor that plagues human beings to date. Although no cure has been found researchers tirelessly try to find solutions. Fortunately a stellar group of researchers in Tel Aviv in Israel composed of Eilam Yeini, Lena Neufeld and Professor SatchiFainaro have found a way to test treatments against this mostly malignant (deadly) cancer. By making a 3-D model of a glioblastoma and the tissue surrounding the tumor using a collection of patients’ cells, these innovative individuals were able to test the efficacy and efficiency of new treatments and drugs. This first-of-a-kind 3-D model produces a live specimen that mimics how a glioblastoma operates on a person’s brain. This provides a unique opportunity to tangibly deal with a glioblastoma and interact with the things in the body that help it to spread. This futuristic method truly blends science and science fiction.
“Human knowledge is never contained in one person. It grows from the relationships we create between each other and the world, and still it is never complete” - Paul Kalanithi
Reporter : Zaria Hintzen Editor : Ella Emtage-Deane
ISSUE 1 //OCTOBER 2021
LAYLA HAYNES: THE QUEST TO BE HER BEST by Jeremy Small
Layla Haynes is on the move, if you’ve never heard of her, you’re about to now! After spending five successful years at Harrison College, Layla is no stranger to most Harrisonians. Layla has been widely known for her track and field prowess, breaking records almost every time she steps onto the track. She has been a keen participant in competitive middle distance races for just over five years and this has prepared her to move to the next level. She acknowledges that the constant support from Harrisonians as she previously repped maroon and gold, helped her to reach her current position. Layla boasts, “Harrison College is a great environment to excel in whatever you want. Staff and student body support has been immense”. Tracking her journey back to 2015, a curious and inexperienced 11 year old girl found herself desiring to “get in shape” and “stay fit”, at this time, she never imagined how much she could achieve. Upon stumbling across the Elite Distance Program Layla had finally found what she had been looking for, a training family. Discovering her new recreation, Layla began to train and says it was at this point she realized that “I fell in love with the sport and the environment with coaches back home (Barbados). I felt a passion for the sport”. Now as one of Barbados’ most coveted athletes, she still radiates humility and awareness of her journey. In efforts to enhance her education, meet new people and make life-long friendships and further her track career, she continued her journey by enrolling into IMG Academy located in Florida, USA. IMG is a sport-oriented school with the intention of building versatile student-athletes, which for Layla means, she can further develop her attributes both as a student and as an athlete. After moving to Florida in early August, patience was vital as she knew the importance of ensuring she had secured a solid foundation of personal development in Barbados before making her next step. Layla says that so far the training at IMG has not been a big jump from her usual regime. However, she credits her former coach, Leo Garnes for her adaptation stating that, “my coach at home is incredible! He gave me a foundation with discipline and the right mental attitude.” It is truly evident that Layla feels comfortable as it didn't take her very long to showcase her talent to IMG Academy. Doing what she does best, Layla stormed to victory in her very first competitive 5K run at the ‘Lehigh Cross Country Invitational 2021'. She acknowledges that she is relatively pleased with her performance but humbly admits that as the season progresses the level of competition rises. Although she does see and value track as an “outlet to explore the world and learn more”. Layla seeks to take a step even further and eventually feature at the Olympics Games to represent her country. However during her path to success, she sincerely hopes that more importantly than anything, she is able to maintain her happiness, friendships and sanity. Humility, Sportsmanship and sheer dominance on the track. Layla’s charisma can never be questioned. As she continues to write her story, us Harrisonians will continue to support and uplift Layla as she continues to inspire us all.
THE COLLEGIAN
Reporter: Nia Morris Editor: Hannah Sealey
FROM KOLIJ TO THE OLYMPICS!
by Nia Morris
Five Harrisonians competed in the recently concluded Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games after being postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. HC alumni Danielle Titus represented Barbados in swimming alongside Jonathan Jones, Sada Williams and Mario Burke on the track. Titus swam her first Olympic race becoming an Olympian only one year after graduating from Harrison College as well as having the honour of being one of Barbados’ flag bearers at the opening ceremony in Tokyo. She previously helped HC win the inter school swimming championships on a number of occasions and told the HC Newspaper that, “I had a great experience in Tokyo. Despite all the different COVID protocols and guidelines, I enjoyed just being there among the best of the best and competing against them.” Jones shared with the HC Newspaper that, “The Olympics even under these strange circumstances was an amazing experience. Tokyo, aside from track, was beautiful, the culture, the people, the architecture. Running in such an amazing stadium even without spectators felt great.” He ran for HC at BSSAC but in Tokyo earned a season’s best of 45.04 seconds in the heats round of the 400m which earned him a place in a difficult semi final where his first Olympic Games ended. Williams made it to the semi final of the women’s 400m where she became the new national record holder with a time of 50.11 seconds which earned her 3rd place just barely missing out on the finals. Burke went to Tokyo with an injury but could not miss the opportunity to represent Barbados at this highest level of athleticism. Regrettably, the injury, a grade one hamstring injury, got the best of him during his heat of the 100m. The injury is said to be minor and he works in rehabilitation with the doctors in Houston to recover quickly possibly including massage therapy and exercises like hamstring curls to strengthen the muscle. Hamstring injuries normally result from working the muscle too hard but it is unclear what exactly caused the injury for Burke who seems to be doing better since Tokyo. The Olympic Kolij Lions had some words of encouragement for HC athletes as well. Titus said, “To any Kolij athletes, I just want to say keep on grinding and persevering in whatever sport it may be because we have the same two hands and two feet as these other competitors so success is very much possible.” While Jones commented, “To all the athletes reading, keep pushing on. I am not the exception, with hard work and dedication you can achieve the same and maybe more.”
Layla Haynes
Johnathon Jones
“Train hard, stay focused on both academics and track. Always keep good people around you, trust the process, enjoy it and run hard!” .
Danielle Titus
-Advice from Layla Haynes
Very inspirational words from the Lions, all of whom did us proud and are sure to continue to do great things.
ISSUE 1 //OCTOBER 2021
WHAT IS STRESS? By Zaria Elcock
Stress is known as the body’s response to physical, mental or emotional pressure. Stress causes chemical changes within your body which can often lead to anxiety, anger or even frustration. Many different situations or life events can cause stress, however, it is often triggered by new experiences , unexpected events or when we feel as though a situation is out of our control. Teenagers are prone to stress as a result of many rapid changes that may occur in their lives during adolescence. While it is mostly manageable, it can become overwhelming and lead to more serious reactions such as anxiety or depression. Stress is dealt with in many different ways and can be controlled through various methods.
STRESS TIPS:
Exercise and eat regular meals Exercise reduces levels of the body's stress hormones, such as adrenaline and cortisol. It also stimulates the production of endorphins, chemicals in the brain that are the body's natural painkillers and mood elevators.
Reporter : Macaria Thorpe Editor : Hannah Sealey
Listen to music Music can have a profound effect on both the emotions and the body a slower tempo can quiet your mind and relax your muscles, making you feel soothed while releasing the stress of the day.
Make time for hobbies Spending time on an activity that you enjoy can improve your mental health and wellbeing. Research shows that people with hobbies are less likely to suffer from stress, low mood, and depression.
Don't forget to take breaks Taking breaks can help to reset your mood and promote positive wellbeing which reduces stress.
DID YOU HEAR ABOUT THE MATHEMATICIAN WHO WAS AFRAID OF NEGATIVE NUMBERS? HE’LL STOP AT NOTHING TO AVOID THEM!
HARRISON COLLEGE WAS NAMED AFTER A BRIDGETOWN MERCHANT NAMED THOMAS HARRISON WHO INTENDED IT TO SERVE AS A “PUBLIC AND FREE SCHOOL FOR THE POOR AND INDIGENT BOYS OF THE PARISH”.
THE COLLEGIAN
ISSUE 1 //OCTOBER 2021
SUPPORT A KOLIJ BUSINESS BY RHEANNA GRIFFIN
We laugh together. We talk nonsense together. We hangout together, but what lies beneath those normal people we chat with regularly? What extraordinary secrets lay low in the dark behind these personals? Read on to find out what hidden talents linger AMONG US!
Jasmine Humphrey of lower sixth is 16 years of age but youth cannot limit this beautiful entrepreneur’s skills and achievements as she proves this generation is full of potential. Jasmine loves baking, going to the beach, shopping and cooking but has always had a love for beauty products and cosmetics. She thought it was interesting how this type of product was made, and after learning that she could make them on her own, she felt inspired to sell. Let’s not forget to mention that lipgloss was also a highly demanded product in the cosmetic industry at the time. This led her to found her youthful business of 2 1/2 years, Sunset
A selection of scrunchies
Jasmine Humphrey in a shirt with her logo
Beauty. Products such as lipgloss, satin pillowcases, and scrunchies are all handmade and sold by Jasmine. The uniqueness of Sunset Beauty lies in the fact that all of her lip products are cruelty-free ~a huge deal in the industry~ and her satin pillowcases and scrunchies are handmade with local fabrics. She seemed to enjoy making her latest collection of lip glosses, the Goddess Collection the most. In 2019, the year Jasmine took off on her beauty venture, she had an extreme amount of
Pink Ribbon lip glosses - a portion of the proceeds were donated to the Breast Cancer Society
Satin Pillowcases
support through markets and Pop-Up shops. She also mentioned her fellow schoolmates
Considering the future, Jasmine is doubtful that she will continue
who came out to purchase her products and support her. Unfortunately, sales began to slow,
Sunset Beauty. She admits, “I don’t see myself that focused on it,
and managing the business became a difficulty the following year when Covid hit Barbados.
especially after school if I want to further my studies. I would like to
This was not the only challenge. As a student who studies all three sciences and other
apply the skill set that I’ve learnt from the business towards a job in the
subjects along with that, you could begin to imagine the struggle of trying to keep up with
future but I don’t know if I’d continue running it after school has
CXC examination preparations and still trying to make sales. Ms. Humphrey stated that even with the pandemic alone, sales slowed because no one was purchasing lip gloss as much anymore. The mask-wearing was a plausible reason for this, as well as the fact that people were cautious and weren’t going out as much.
finished.” Despite this, Jasmine Humphrey’s entrepreneurial efforts are very inspiring, showing other young people that they are not too young to begin a business venture. Take the plunge! Go for it! You’ll only really know if it is for you if you go for it!
Contact info: (246) 241-8614 Instagram @Sunsetbeauty246
Save the Date Template
Wedding Invitation Template
Jasmine is not the only Harrisonian with the entrepreneurial spirit! Makayla Waterman, also age 16, has gotten in on the action. She similarly enjoys baking and played a part in the Harrison College Steelpan Ensemble and the rugby team. Economics, Pure Math and Accounting are the areas of studies she has taken up.
As if she cannot get anymore interesting, Lilxe Events is the name Makayla has given to her five-month-old business. She specialises in Logos, Business Cards, Promotion Posts, Posters/Flyers, Infographics, and Invitations. She shared why she enjoys making invitations the most, especially those for weddings.
“A WEDDING IS AN EXTREMELY MEMORABLE AND SPECIAL EVENT.” Makayla finds the most joy in seeing the couples get the opportunity to enjoy themselves up until their big day knowing the invitations suit their personalities. The desire to become an event manager crept to the surface when Makayla was in third form. After designing a wedding invitation for class, she began her market research, increasing her knowledge in the event planning industry as her interest in being a part of the Arts, Culture, Entertainment and Design Makayla Waterman Industry ripened. Contact info: (246)285-6928 Reporter: Kaya Hinds Instagram @Lixle.events Editors: Christiane Hennis and Zan Valere
THE COLLEGIAN
Promotion Poster
Birthday Invitation Template
Makayla believes that every event company stands out in their own way and that hers will be unique, due to her creative designs and artistic skills displayed through her products. Makayla shared that she respects everyone who has started their own business and she herself is enjoying business life. Her intent is to continue Lixle Events even after graduating Harrison College and hopes that one day, her dream to own a well-known event management company would come true.
ISSUE 1 //OCTOBER 2021
by Imani Gaskin
Before competitions, judges and medals - there was simply the euphoric feeling of paddling into a wave, catching and riding it - a feeling that 6th Former Tai Garrett first felt when he was only four years old. The moment is forever immortalized as his favourite surfing memory.
When asked if professional surfing was in his future, Tai remarked, “Once upon a time, yes I could say it was a dream but not anymore”. Instead he now envisions himself going the more “educational” route and aspires to pursue a career in mechanical engineering.
Patience and learning to trust the process were also qualities he gained from surfing. Tai explains that the hardest aspect of the sport is wanting to run before you walk. “I know that’s a bit figurative but when I say that I mean people who want to learn “I’d say that surfing has influenced how to surf always try to go too fast and try to Coming from a long line of surfers, me in such a way that I don't look downsize that board too quickly”, he remarked. salt water ran through his veins. “I at someone and judge them don’t really know how I’d say it straight off the bat, just cause with Tai also values the challenges of competition. “It caught my attention - it's really everyone out on the water, it’s kind forces you to get out there and push yourself to the been in my family for as long as I best of your capability,” he explained while of like one big family. We all try can remember. I mean my dad has and give each other advice and the reflecting on his years competing in the sport. “Of a surf school and I guess I just surf community is generally pretty course you’re being judged by the judges and I think followed in his footsteps,” he friendly. It helped me to be pretty winning would obviously be the one of best parts stated. about competing”. chilled and a way more friendly Tai’s father owns ‘Dread or Dead’ person to strangers,” a view he the popular local surf shop and believes those close to him would Despite having some difficulty “pinpointing” just one surfer he admires in the professional surfing world, school where Tai is one of the agree with. instructors, happy to pass on his he named John “John John” Alexander Florence as a love for the sport to locals and favourite. Described as ‘one of the most dominant tourists alike. pipe surfers of his era’, the 28 year old is one of only five Hawaiian surfers to ever win back-to-back world titles.
TAI IN ACTION
Ultimately, Tai is keen to see the surfing community in Barbados grow with young up and coming surfers. With the sport recently being added to the Olympic roster, it would be a dream for him to one day see his country being represented on the world stage in the sport he adores. Until then, he would be stoked to see more of his fellow Harrisonians out there shredding waves.
THE COLLEGIAN
Reporter : Macaria Thorpe Editor : Ella Emtage-Deane
ISSUE 1 //OCTOBER 2021
INTERNAL VS EXTERNAL
EXAMS BY: SARAH BISRAM
Students Struggle To Cope with Exams during Pandemic Notably more stressful than previous years, the 2021 examination season concluded with Harrisonians feeling that they were unprepared. Interviews conducted by student reporter Keilani Talma featuring third to sixth formers, revealed this. Internal examinations to determine the promotion of first to fourth form students are usually administered by the school during the third term. This year the exam title and purpose was changed from promotion to assessments to relieve stress. But, did it? 100% of respondents were unsatisfied with their results. A student claimed the change in terminology was “misleading” and being told assessments were strictly being used to determine students’ understanding of the syllabus changed nothing. The suggested alternative was, “they could have implemented year round assessments instead of dumping it all one time”. One interviewee did appreciatively say the school did well determining suitable ways to assess.
Reporter: Keilani Talma Editor: Kenya James
THE COLLEGIAN
Yet, no internal sitter received grades they wanted, despite claiming their preparations were undisturbed by the COVID19 pandemic. Were the mediocre results due to late announcement of assessments, or students’ failure to prepare? Did students deem assessments subpar to promotions, with fear of repeating no longer a motivator? Students were “not too bothered”. Therefore, were these examination results an accurate representation of their understanding of the syllabus? The senior school was tasked with completing external exams, a major factor in college/university placement, administered by the Caribbean Examination Council (CXC). This pressure with the added uncertainty of stipulations regarding pandemic examinations, created unrest among the student body. Respondents were unsatisfied with how exams were administered, although recognising the chosen format (a multiple choice and long paper with a Student Based Assessment/ additional long paper) “erased the stress...in regard to the marking curriculum”. Students were unimpressed with CXC’s attempt to aid students by releasing broad topics, saying it helped for few subjects only. Unlike internal sitters, external sitters’ exam preparations were affected by the pandemic. Some students admitted to being unusually unorganised, exhausted and experienced a reduced ability to understand material despite studying harder. Others simply prepared to accept the outcome and then “go from there”. Overall, students did not adapt fully to online teaching and perhaps experienced academic burnout from having to relearn how to study, along with effectively tackling large amounts of material for major exams, while grappling with digital fatigue (exhaustion and period of being unfocused after prolonged exposure to digital technology). But, students should have developed effective study techniques years ago, right? Well, certain techniques are no longer accessible to them such as use of a library or writing notes. Additionally, certain methods to prevent academic burnout like social activities and extracurriculars are not readily available or are online resulting in digital fatigue. It is important that students research signs of academic burnout such as lacking motivation or an increase in bad habits and find new ways to prevent it. Developing effective study techniques to maximise time spent on digital technology is but one solution. Digital fatigue and academic burnout are real, whether it’s external or internal exams that await you at the end of the year. As we prepare, remember to permit yourself to experiment with trial and error when studying, or even take a step back and change your approach. It is going to be a long year. For more information on recognising the signs and managing digital fatigue, click the following link: https://www.uopeople.edu/blog/what-is-academic-burnout/. ISSUE 1 //OCTOBER 2021
DOES EXERCISE AFFECT ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE?
By: Emmanuel Sealey In research done by lower six Harrison College students, statistics were collected and analyzed to show if exercise affects the way that students perform in the school. This study consisted of paralleling Harrison College students’ median grades, to how often they exercised weekly. The general pattern proved that students who exercised more attained better grades than those who exercised less or did not exercise.
From this investigation, it is evident that every student can benefit from exercise and playing sports and for best results, should exercise more than 2 times weekly. We can deduce that athletics enhance academic potential and the overall well-being of students. In direct relation, it relieves stress, enables better focus, and urges proper time management. Fortunately, our school provides a multitude of sports from volleyball to rugby for us students to get active and participate in. We can also turn to home exercise and activities in times like these where we may not be able to play or do activities with each other.
Interestingly, all of the data did not follow this pattern as some students who had no weekly days of exercise scored better than those who had up to two days of exercise. From this exception, one can infer that other variables such as effort, study time, and natural understanding compensate for lack of exercise.
E XERC I sE! THE COLLEGIAN
Reporter: Keilani Talma Editor: Zan Valere
ISSUE 1 //OCTOBER 2021
THE COLLEGIAN FOR THE STUDENTS BY THE STUDENTS
The Principal's Note Ms. Wade shares a few thoughts and words of encouragement as she aims to partner with the students of Harrison College and cultivate even more of a family culture during this ´new normal’. "In terms of the newspaper, I believe it has come at the right time. I think it is very important for us to have this avenue for the students to express themselves. I hope that students would be able to use it not just in reading serious articles but also the showcasing of skills, whether it’s through a comedy section or art pieces, our students are still involved in these things and this is an opportunity to share it to the rest of the school. We aren’t able to meet in assembly and physically call people on stage and offer them accolades but a platform such as The Newspaper should acknowledge those achievements and highlight them."
"In terms of the Pandemic, it is a shared experience from students to teachers and we need to have a mutual understanding and respect since we are all in this together. How we come out of this phase will be determined by how we manage it right now. I want you as students to avoid going through this alone, share your emotions, seek help if needed and most importantly don’t abandon your goals. This pandemic is a phase and it will come to an end. The students of Harrison College are resilient, that word is often used but you as students can bounce back. I think we can all get through this together and become a better family for it. My vision or goal for this academic year would be to find ways to leverage the opportunities that we have… we are far more aware of opportunities that we have now on this online forum than we were when we started and I think it would be great to take advantage of each and every one of those opportunities. I hope to create an environment where every student can find a niche and a passion. Although we live in a small country, we don’t have to think small, we must think big and on an online platform the opportunities are truly endless."
The Editorial Team
"How we come out of this phase will be determined by how we manage it right now." -Ms. Wade Teacher Facilitator : Ms. S Greaves Editor in Chief : Hannah Sealey
reporters
writers
editors
Kaya Hinds Keilani Talma Macaria Thorpe Nia Morris Theo Waterman Zaria Hintzen
Emmanuel Sealey Imani Gaskin Jeremy Small Nathan Eristhee Rheanna Griffin Sanaa Elcock Sarah Bisram Zaria Elcock
Christiane Hennis Ella Emtage-Deane Kenya James Zan Valere
visual & graphic team Brian Nicholls Muhammed Kazmi Nina Barshini Rheanna Griffin Zanae Nicholls
ISSUE 1 OCTOBER 2021
Advice for students in their first year: "Harrison college has a great legacy and you are standing in the footsteps of giants, but don’t only stand in their footsteps, become those giants and leave new footsteps. Do great things, take advantage of every opportunity it offers you. Find the place that you can contribute to, not only in academics but also contribute to the wider community. Don’t limit your social interaction just because we are online, continue to socialize and build your circles, that is crucial for at your stage of life. I also want to urge the athletes among the new comers not to give up, still train and continue to pour into the sport that you love. All in all, you get out of Harrison College the equivalent of what you put in, so put all in. "
Advice for students in their last year: "I want to encourage you to realize that you are closer to getting back into a normal situation than you may think so preparation is key. I also admonish you to think widely, do not only consider the USA or Canada for university opportunities. There are multitude of other options that might not have been available before. Don’t be afraid to step into a brand new culture and world. Explore all horizons, it is much more vast than before. You have been equipped to face that world and you should take the confidence we have in you and let it help you impact the world because you are more than capable to! Lastly, never forget your roots and the humble island that gave you a footing, Don't step on the small man, be ready to give back to your school and country, not just financially but with your knowledge and expertise."
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THE COLLEGIAN
ISSUE 1 //OCTOBER 2021