The Epitaph, Volume 59, Issue 7, 2021-2022

The Epitaph Vol. 59, Issue 7

Read about the

Class of 2022 in Senior spotlight

Homestead High School 21370 Homestead Rd, Cupertino, CA 95014

EVOLVING DISCIPLINE POLICY PROMPTS CONVERSATION

By Nicole Kim, Lia Klebanov and Erin Loh

D

iscipline policies across the district have been evolving for the past decade, shifting from traditional methods such as suspending students to methods that focus on reflection and learning, dean Anthony Nguyen said.

While suspensions are still given for egregious offenses, Nguyen said smaller wrongdoings warrant different consequences under the current policy. However, some staff members have questioned the effectiveness of the policy in reducing misbehavior.

“The whole process of discipline is reflection and growth,” Nguyen said. “Whenever there’s a discipline practice going on, we have to make sure students learn from it to prevent it from occurring again.”

Nguyen said HHS began transitioning away from suspensions about a decade ago since suspensions did not effectively correct behavior and instead led to students falling behind in classes. Contrarily, the current discipline policy is comprised of alternatives to suspensions, progressive discipline and restorative justice, all which work to build relationships between students and trusted adults, teach students lessons and ns ultimately

decrease misbehavior. Additionally, students are guided in identifying past triggers that could have led to behavioral issues.

“I never want to discipline you and have you coming out of this office thinking that my intentions were full of malice,” Nguyen said. “I want you to grow into wonderful human beings, because one day, you’re going to have to make those choices on your own.”

Nguyen said many staff members may have questions or misconceptions about what the discipline policy is, especially the restorative justice aspect, which centers around community building, mediation and reintegration.

“Staff members have a life after teaching,” Nguyen said. “We have kids at home that we got to raise.

For us to do extra research on what discipline practices are, or for us to learn something that isn’t a hobby or requirement, is difficult.”

English teacher Shawnee Rivera said she does not fully understand the discipline policies, partially because she has not had to deal with many behavioral issues in the past.

To address the lack of understanding around the current policies, the deans gave presentations to each department explaining the process in depth earlier this school year, Nguyen said. If staff members have questions, Nguyen said they are free to talk to him io at any time.

Have conversat In a survey of 32 teachers conducted by The Epitaph, in which data was collected by visiting classrooms, 41% of teachers said they do not believe the current discipline policy is effective at reducing misbehavior, 37% said they were unsure of the policy’s effectivea Write h ness and 22% said they believe the c r resea policy is effective. r e pap An anonymous respondent wrote that reductions in misbehavior may not be the strongest measurement in determining the effectiveness of the discipline policy, as even if misbehavior levels remain constant, a policy focused on redemption is more successful than a punitive one.

Business teacher, Byron Lee said in the past, after reporting incidents, teachers had direct involvement in the subsequent discipline process. They possessed more knowledge of what the disciplinary procedures specifically sought to do.

“As the teachers, we’re the ones on the front lines,” Lee said. “We de used to know what the follow through a h it was and we were notified about the rew k l nd ta sult of things. We all worked together, beWalk a cause that way, we were all helping that student grow up. Now, we have no idea, because it’s a void.”

According to data from the California Department of Education, excluding data from 2019-2020, 2020-2021 and n tio 2021-2022, suspension rates decreased from 3.4% in 2011 to 1.4% flec e r in 2016, then increased again to 2.9% in 2019. However, since Illustration by ea t i r Emily Choi W the new discipline policy targets non-suspendable offenses, suspension data does not necessarily reflect the policy’s effecFOCUSING ON REFLECTION: Four of the illustrations above detiveness at reducing misbehavior.

“Whenever there’s a disci-

an

aturday school Attend S

pline practice going on, we have to make sure you learn from it to prevent it from occurring again.”

- Dean Anthony Nguyen

pict examples of alteratives to suspensions, while the “having conversations” illustration depicts mediation, a tier of restorative justce. These discipline practices aim to help students learn and grow.

WHAT’S ONLINE?

See Two Gentlemen of Verona, Web

Thursday, May 26, 2022

Senior activities commence

By Harshitha Vijayakumar

Events throughout the month of May organized by ASB, the PTSA and the administration celebrate the senior class as they prepare to graduate.

Senior rally The senior rally was held on May 20 and recognized students’ triumphs throughout their four-year journey, rally commissioner Chloe Lu said.

“Since it was the last rally of the year, we wanted to spotlight the seniors for all they have accomplished,” Lu, a sophomore, said. “I think this rally made the seniors realize the sense of community Homestead has [provided] them throughout their years of high school.”

After intensive planning beginning in mid-April, Lu said this year’s senior rally did not host traditional activities from past senior rallies. Because the rally was outdoors, Lu said the rally commissioner team did not include the senior farewell video.

“Since the senior walk-out is so emotional, we tried to make it a really special part of the rally,” Lu said.

As the year concludes, Lu said she hoped that the rally was memorable for seniors.

“I hope the seniors cherish the last few memories they will make in their high school adventure,” Lu said.

Senior Ball Preparation for the ball began at the start of the second semester, senior class officer Rachel Fletcher-Ferreira said.

For the first prom most of the senior class has ever attended, Fletcher-Ferreira said she urged students to buy tickets so they would not miss a monumental experience.

“I hope that the ones that were able to get tickets were able to hang out with their friends and enjoy the night with their friends,” Fletcher-Ferreira said.

Fletcher-Ferreira said the officer team regrets not being able to sell prom tickets to everyone who wanted to attend due to the venue’s limited space.

“Because COVID-19 [canceled the 2019-20 prom], we used the venue that the seniors from two years ago picked.

They had already put the deposit down,” Fletcher-Ferreira said. “Unfortunately, if we had picked a venue, we would have most likely picked somewhere that could fit more people.”

Although the planning process required extensive preparation, Fletcher-Ferreira said she learned a lot from the process.

“It’s made me realize how much work goes into an event like this that’s for the whole class,” Fletcher-Ferreira said. “It’s made me realize it’ll all pay off when the event actually comes.”

See DISCIPLINE POLICY, page 2

News Opinion Lifestyles

INSIDE

1 3 5

Arts & Culture Sports Spotlight

See SENIOR ACTIVITIES, page 2

6 7 8

e

hhsepitaph.com @hhsepitaph

f

The Epitaph The Epitaph @epitaphHHS The Epitaph

PAGE DESIGN BY CHLOE WONG AND NINA VASQUEZ CRUZ

2

News

Thursday, May 26, 2022

Senior activities

Continued from page 1

unique and exciting as possible.

“Graduation is a gateway to a lot of other areas,” Giglio said. “It’s bittersweet and it’s sad to see people go, but it’s cool because they’re moving on to better things.”

Photo by Harshitha Vijayakumar Grad Night Party A FINAL CHEER: Seniors Olivia AlvaraAfter the graduation do, Annabelle Bussey, Bobby Gorelick ceremony, an all-night and Anika Walch dance down the field. party organized for the seniors will be held would like to organize the events Photo by Olivia Shen at a secret location, and entertainment so everybody GNP co-chair Vinut- has something to partake in,” ha Shettigar said.

Shettigar said.

The location must This event is a way for seniors be kept secret to to say a goodbye to their classmaintain safety, Shet- mates through a whole night of tigar said. Additional- fun with friends, GNP co-chair ly, the only method of Madhavi Vedula said. transportation to the “This is the last time they celvenue are buses pro- ebrate with each other,” Vedula vided by the PTSA. said. “After that, everyone will “We take into ac- part ways and be pursuing [their CELEBRATION OF JOURNEY: Isabel Matcount what the kids post high school plans].” ta and Kyra Sunil celebrate decision day.

Graduation Throughout the preparation process, principal Greg Giglio said the district had to consider whether COVID-19 precautions would require multiple ceremonies. However, it was eventually decided to only host one ceremony.

Since high school graduation will be the only major graduation some students will experience in their lives, Giglio said the school must work to make the event as

Construction of the past, present, future

By Leila Salam

Due to delays from weather conditions, the pandemic supply chain and state requirements, the end date for A building construction has moved from May to July, principal Greg Giglio said. As A building construction reaches its final stages, the school looks toward future construction plans.

“We need that building ready for school to start in August,” Giglio said. “But I think we’re going to be able to get it done.”

B Building construction will still start in early June and is supposed to end the following summer, Giglio said.

After this school year ends, teachers will be moved out of the B building and will be relocated to different parts of campus, Giglio said. Once the

Photo by Ritaja Subrahmanya

A

BUILDING

ASSEMBLY:

Despite delays, construction will finish during summer.

B building is finished, there will be upgrades to the S, C and L buildings.

Additionally, Giglio said the C and L building plans still need to be discussed since the cost difference between a full remodel and an upgrade is relatively small.

“It’s ongoing and ever-changing,” Giglio said.

“Now, we’re cranking through to the end.”

Discipline policy

Continued from page1

HHS DISCIPLINE

In the same survey, one teacher wrote, “If not as many detentions, suspensions, etc. are being doled out to students due to alternative discipline approaches or restorative justice, that doesn’t necessarily mean there is less misbehavior. In the last few years especially, I feel that the miscreants have emboldened.”

English teacher Steve Lavelle said he was given the middle finger by a student this year and did not receive an apology after reporting the incident to the administration. Lavelle also said he thinks students feel more emboldened to act out due to lenient consequences.

“There’s not enough bite into our discipline program, and I’m seeing things [I’ve never seen before, such as the repeated false fire alarms and bathroom vandalism],” Lavelle said. “Incidents are always going to happen, but

The three facets of discipline at HHS include alternatives to suspensions, progressive discipline and restorative justice. Although each play a unique role in governing how discipline is carried out, all intertwine to create a process that focuses on reflection and growth.

there is a recurrence of these events that is not being curtailed.”

Since 2015, excluding the years affected by COVID-19, the number of total reported incidents increased steadily each year, from 329 in 2015 to 812 in 2019. This year, there have been 215 total incidents recorded at the time of publication.

Business teacher, Graeme Logie said his class has experienced disruptions multiple times from visible distractions through the large windows of his classroom in the IHub. As someone affected by misbehavior, Logie said he feels the administration has not effectively mediated communication between the offending students and himself.

“My belief of what restorative justice is, is that the victim is also part of the process and

Madhavi Karthik Macy Li Karuna Chandran Hope Saena Erin Loh Nicole Kim Keshav Kumar Lindsey Steel Anushruti Nagarajan Lia Klebanov Saira Ahmed Brevin Reed Amber Birrell Rajiv Venkatesh Niyatee Jain Harshitha Vijayakumar Seoyoung Hwang Christine Kim

day school after being caught letting a friend copy his homework. Saturday school serves as an alternative consequence to a suspension, Nguyen said, where students use the time to complete academic work and conduct a behavioral reflection.

“It was helpful to see what I could have done better,” Ahuja said. “Honestly, it wasn’t even a bad opportunity because I got to catch up on a lot of missing assignments.”

Ultimately, Nguyen said discipline involves not just the administration but the entire community, including therapists, teachers and staff, who all help a student grow.

“The whole thing about collaboration is trust among the whole staff,” Nguyen said.

“That’s key. Trust, transparency and the fact that everything that we do is for you — the students.”

Information courtesy of Anthony Nguyen

Alternatives to suspensions

Progressive discipline

Restorative Justice

Alternatives to suspensions are discipline methods that do not interfere with time in school. Based on the idea that missing class fails to improve behavior and hinders learning, these alternatives instead focus on reflection on one’s actions. However, suspensions still punish serious offenses.

In progressive discipline, students are given increasing consequences each time they commit the same offense.

Employing different consequences each time ensures misbehavior is constantly being approached from a different angle.

Tier 1- Community Building: Adults on campus, including teachers and deans, build community when they form relationships with students.

Trust between adults and students helps prevent misbehavior before it happens.

Tier 2- Mediation: When conflict does occur, mediation allows both parties to reach a solution in a healthy manner.

Once both parties agree to mediation, they have an honest conversation where each actively listens to the other’s perspective.

Tier 3- Reintegration: Reintegration allows students who have missed school for a long period of time, whether from a suspension or otherwise, to be provided with the support they need to succeed.

Graduating Seniors Editors & Reporters

Editors & Reporters Editor–in–Chief Editor–in–Chief Managing Editor Production Manager Senior News Junior News Senior Opinion Senior Opinion Junior Opinion Senior Lifestyles Junior Lifestyles Junior Lifestyles Senior Arts & Culture Junior Arts & Culture Senior Sports Junior Sports Senior Design Senior Design

the perpetrator would be empa- notified of disciplinary action if thetic and apologetic for the ac- the infraction directly involves tions taken,” Logie said. “That’s them, for instance if the misnot happening. There’s nothing behavior occurred in the classreciprocal in the process, and I room, in an effort to keep the think that’s process equitable where our for the student. version of Despite not all “There is a recurrence restorative teachers agreeing of these events that is justice falls with the current short.” approach to discinot being curtailed.”

D a t a , pline, Giglio said -Steve Lavelle, English h o w e v e r, teachers’ approval comes second to shows that providing a safe enincidents occurring during class increased vironment.

“Pleasing the teachers is not sharply from 2015 to 2016, with a peak of 374 incidents, and then necessarily the biggest part of steadily declined after that. This this,” Giglio said. “Supporting year, there has been the lowest the teachers is [important, as number of reported incidents well as] making sure they feel during class - just 121 - than over comfortable and safe.”

One student who went the past five years.

With non-suspendable in- through the discipline process fractions such as being in a fight, was senior Rohan Ahuja, who Nguyen said teachers are only said he was assigned Satur-

Photography/Illustration Editor Joss Broward Senior Multimedia Zeinab Rakhshanderhroo Senior Social Media Saira Ahmed Web Master Seoyoung Hwang Copy Editor Joss Broward Copy Editor Rajiv Venkatesh Reporter Aiko Charon Reporter Gaby Cristancho Reporter Ariana Juliette Tejeda Moreno Reporter Ashley Orozco Plata Reporter Dan Penalosa Reporter Nicole Pimenta Inneco Reporter Raymond Ranbhise Reporter Mae Richardson Reporter Ritaja Subrahmanya Reporter Chloe Wong Reporter Nina Vasquez Cruz Reporter Esmeralda Villalobos Soriano

Naomi Baron Josh Cantwell-Nahrung Bobby Gorelick Yukari E. Hernandez Shreya Partha Leila Salam Olivia Shen Jack Xu

Adviser Natalie Owsley

Infographic by Nicole Kim and Erin Loh

Mission Statement

Advertising

The Epitaph is a non-profit publication at Homestead High School, 21370 Homestead Rd., Cupertino, CA 95014.

The Epitaph is a forum for student expression and not subject to prior review, in accordance to Education Code 48907. The staff is comprised of HHS Journalism students. Views expressed do not necessarily represent views of the school, its staff or the district.

Editorials are opinions of the editorial board.

The Epitaph welcomes letters to the editor but reserves the right to edit submissions. Letters should be limited to 300 words.

Include contact information. Unsigned letters cannot be published, but names will be withheld upon request. Send via homestead. epitaph@gmail.com, or drop letters in the newsroom or the office mailbox.

If The Epitaph has made an error, please send corrections to homestead.epitaph@gmail.com. The corrections will be published in the corrections box for the next issue.

To reach the Epitaph staff in C102 call (408) 522-2572

One email and you can reach over 2,400 students, teachers, administrators and community members from Northern Sunnyvale to Southern Los Altos.

If your target market is be- tween the ages 14 to 18, contact The Epitaph at epitaph.ads@ gmail.com, and we can make it happen.

Letter to the Editor The Epitaph encourages readers to express their thoughts and concerns by sending a Letter to the Editor. However, The Epitaph discourages harassment of writers, verbal or written, as well as any actions disrupting students, staff or community members from reading our content.

Directions for sending a Letter to the Editor can be found on hhs.epitaph.com. The Epitaph welcomes all Letters to the Editor and reserves the right to edit, shorten or not publish any submissions without notice. The Epitaph at epitaph. ads@ gmail.com, and we can make it happen.

PAGE DESIGN BY ASHLEY OROZCO PLATA AND LINDSEY STEEL

Opinion

Thursday, May 26, 2022

STAFF EDITORIAL

3

Advisories fail to render community-wide change Advisory is meant to help students fight the privilege and discrimination that surround them, principal Greg Giglio said.

But after two years of advisories, their impact is hardly seen. While created with good intentions, the lessons are executed poorly and fail to engage or educate students.

Most advisories feature slideshow presentations and videos. While it is easy to learn about prejudice from Powerpoints, that knowledge is not enough to help students combat bigotry in real life. Although these modules cover important topics, they make the issues discussed feel abstract and distant.

For instance, the module about antisemitism failed to relate the issue to the HHS community. Instead of help-

ing students understand the School officials should reach Given that students expeimpact of antisemitism, the out to student organizations rience these issues firsthand, lesson simply gave students that represent marginalized they are better suited to teach a website about the history communities on campus and them than district or school of antisemitism. While the encourage them to create ad- staff. Additionally, student context is important, learning visories promoting diversity input would make advisory a history alone is not enough to and inclusion. collaborative efchange student behavior. fort.

In fact, 83% of students said H oweve r, advisory fails to improve the administrabehavior of their peers, while tion has failed 66% of students said advisory to prioritize does not properly educate these collaborastudents about martions. For exginalized communiample, Pride ties on campus, acClub’s lescording to a survey of son about 242 students by The LGBTQ Epitaph. awareness To improve the was caneffectiveness of celed due advisories, we to a lack of must ensure that available Illustration by Macy Li students have a advisory greater role in the IMPROVE OUR ADVISORIES: Administration should slots, Gioffer students a greater role in creating advisories. creation of them. glio said.

For LGBTQ students, these issues are impactful.

Administration’s decision to remove this advisory demonstrates a failure to implement meaningful collaborations and a lack of emphasis on the struggles of marginalized students.

If student groups were actively involved with the advisory-planning process, this situation could have been avoided.

While we support the decision to educate students about social injustices and prejudices, the way in which advisory lessons are executed must be drastically improved.

If administration truly wants to make our campus a more inclusive place, they must give students a greater voice in choosing what and how they learn in advisory.

Keep your bans off our bodies Roe v. Wade must be protected

By Macy Li Nationwide, millions of people are on the cusp of losing their bodily autonomy and fundamental rights.

News of the leaked Supreme Court draft opinion swept the nation in early May, unveiling the justices’ plans to strike down the 1973 Roe v. Wade decision — a monumental case that established a constitutional right to an abortion. In the leaked opinion, five conservative justices voted to eliminate federal protections of abortion rights, according to the New York Times.

If this ruling holds, nearly half a century of progress would be reversed, and abortion access would be left in the hands of states. Ultimately, this will have far-reaching repercussions and rob people of their basic rights.

Currently, 13 U.S. states have “trigger laws,” which are constructed to impose strict or out-

right bans on abortion. If Roe v. Wade is struck down, these laws would be implemented immediately with very minimal legislative effort. As a result, 41% of women of childbearing age would witness the closure of their nearest abortion clinic, according to The New York Times.

Given the nature of these laws, many states do not intend to offer exceptions for instances of rape or incest. This is simply abhorrent.

Approximately 9,000 victims of rape become pregnant annually, and 100,000 cases of incest occur each year, according to the National Center for Child Abuse and Neglect. If Roe v. Wade is overturned, thousands of victims will be forced to carry children against their will.

Furthermore, due to a lack of access to contraceptives and proper sex education, two-thirds

of teenage pregnancies in the millions risk losing their repro- across the country are rendered inferior.

United States are not planned. ductive rights.

It is not the role of the govTeenagers who do not possess Ultimately, overturning Roe the means to carry a pregnan- v. Wade is a cruel infringement ernment to prohibit Americans cy to term would be forced to on human rights and a blatant from making their own reproductive choices — it is their redo so. Coercing them to carry a insult to decades of advocacy. child, as well as stripping away Reproductive freedom is a sponsibility to protect this right their ability to terminante an fundamental freedom, and mak- from being torn away.

It is time for politicians to unwanted pregnancy, is noth- ing decisions about our own ing short of evil. bodies is a basic right. With- relinquish their control over It is shameful to see a coun- out this power, women, trans- women and keep unjust bans off try that prides itself on “liber- gender and nonbinary people their bodies. ty and justice for all” undermine the freedom of people to dictate the choices that shape their lives.

It is severely disappointing to Illustration by Joss Broward and Macy Li see decades of progress SAFEGUARD REPRODUCTIVE RIGHTS: Overturning Roe v. Wade being lost, as severely undermines decades of advocacy for this fundamental right.

Parents: Steer clear of the student parking lot Less traffic will increase efficiency, safety for students

By Nicole Kim and Harshitha Vijayakumar Dear HHS families, The student parking lot is intended solely for students to park in, not for parents to drop off and pick up their kids.

The crowding of parent vehicles in the student parking lot generates many issues for student drivers and creates an unsafe environment for those trying to exit the lot via bike, unicycle or foot.

As someone who drives to and from school, the worst way to start or end any day is with traf-

fic. However, I do not encounter traffic on the road — rather, the traffic inside the student parking lot is what causes delays and disorder.

At the end of the school day, it takes five to ten minutes longer for me to exit the parking lot than it does to actually get home.

In the afternoon, parents will also stop in the middle of the road so their kids can enter their cars, blocking traffic. Not only is it inconvenient to encounter these obstacles, but these issues

are completely avoidable, making them all the more frustrating.

Furthermore, in the mornings, many parents park in spots that are meant for students — and sometimes in the middle of the road. This creates a hazard, as it causes unnecessary barriers in the limited time students have in the morning.

Given how chaotic the student lot is before and after school, moving through the crowded parking lot can be dangerous for pedestrians and drivers alike.

Student drivers, pedestrians and bicyclists are all negatively affected by overcrowding in the student parking lot caused by parents who interrupt the flow of traffic.

Aside from the parking lot, there are numerous other locations for parents to drop off or pick up students that can reduce traffic in the lot. For instance, using the actual horseshoe can ease congestion. Alternatively, students can be dropped off or picked up on neighboring streets,

such as Kennewick Drive or Mary Avenue.

Ultimately, students’ safety and schedules must be prioritized over the convenience of parents. Students need to travel to and from their classes, and they deserve safety and better organization in their own parking lot.

Although parents have the best intentions for their children, their excessive use of the student parking lot before and after school ultimately harms many.

Illustration by Joss Broward

MEANT FOR STUDENTS: The student lot is a parking lot, not a makeshift horseshoe.

PAGE DESIGN BY GABY CRISTANCHO, NIYATEE JAIN AND ESMERALDA VILLALOBOS SORIANO

4

Opinion

Thursday, May 26, 2022

Being apolitical means opposing progress Marginalized students lack privilege of avoiding politics

By Dan Penalosa

THE COURT DECIDES

By Ritaja Subrahmanya

us

on

by

Jo

ss

rd

further isolate the Deaf community.

Approximately 35 million people in the United States experience some degree of hearing trouble, according to Northern Star. Chances are, a hearing person will someday have to interact with someone who is unable to hear. Therefore, it is vital that there be a universal method of communication between those hard of hearing and those who can hear, especially due to the prevalence of hearing issues.

To address this, HHS can adopt language programs similar to nearby Palo Alto High School, where ASL classes are offered from levels one through four. French, Spanish, Mandarin and Japanese are all commonly spoken languages, and are consequently, taught in schools. It is only reasonable to include ASL as an additional option considering its frequent usage and its value as a form of communication.

Some may argue that because ASL is not a spoken language, it does not warrant the same amount of time or energy needed to become proficient, and thus does not deserve to be taught. However, the objective of learning ASL is no different than learning any other language – to ease communication across people from different backgrounds.

To shape HHS into a more inclusive comBREAKING DOWN BARRIERS: ASL munity where everyshould be an option in our language cur- one can be underriculum because it fosters connections stood, teaching ASL is among diverse groups. a necessity.

Ill

wa ro B

Beauty can be found in every word of every language, including one that depends upon sight rather than sound. American Sign Language is one of the most widely used languages in the United States, as it is one of the only forms of nonverbal communication, according to the National Institute of Health.

Despite ASL being a valuable and growing language, most schools do not offer it as a language course. Because of this, it is crucial that ASL be taught at HHS to ease communication between members of this community. This will allow everyone, regardless of hearing ability, to foster greater connections with diverse ranges of people. Greater teaching and use of ASL will bridge the gap between hearing and Deaf people, while continued neglect of the language will only

vandalism in HHS boys’ bathrooms, as well as the recent incidents of sexual assault reported by the Sunnyvale Department of Public Safety.

These instances will inevitably continue unless the HHS community combats hatred and pushes for change, which requires political involvement. Remaining apolitical is no longer an option — it is time for us to take action.

ti

By Anushruti Nagarajan, Lindsey Steel and Ariana Tejeda Moreno

are apathetic to sexual assault because they do not think they will be assaulted. This holds true for student loans, police brutality and queerphobia.

As safe as apoliticism appears, it strays far from allyship. When one side wishes to remove queer voices from our community while the other is neutral towards them, an apolitical position teaches that both sides are valid — that students can decide between tolerance or queerphobia, with apathy being seen as the reasonable center.

If anything, apoliticism manifests as apathy towards hate crimes, like the several recent incidents of queerphobic and antisemitic

tra

cessive police presence on campus, the widening wealth divide or the climate crisis, politics is all around us. Abstaining from politics only upholds the harmful status quo.

Rather than shying away from political topics, the administration must find opportunities to educate students about injustices.

Advisories like the 2021 anti-Asian hate discussion and LGBTQ lesson focused on struggles faced by marginalized communities. However, the modules limited students to observing these issues from a vacuum, rather than enabling students to take action and fight for change.

Ultimately, marginalized students do not have the privilege to stay apolitical or avoid discussing current events within the broader context of their oppression, as they are subjected to it constantly.

On the other hand, people who choose not to care about the housing crisis because their families own a home are given that choice as a product of privilege.

The same goes for people who

Hearing every voice

tion by

Illustra

roward

Joss B

For the first time in history, animals have been granted legal rights.

On March 23, the Constitutional Court of Ecuador ruled in favor of animals, elevating their legal status and requiring new legislation to be drafted to grant them higher protections, according to the Nonhuman Rights Project.

This landmark ruling originates from a case filed on behalf of a wooly monkey named Estrellita, who had been living as a pet for 18 years before being relocated to a zoo and dying a month later, according to the Harvard Animal Law and Policy Program.

Her former owner filed a habeas corpus action, which protects individuals from indefinite or unlawful imprisonment, saying Estrellita’s rights were violated when she was forcibly removed from her home.

Ecuador was the first country to include the right to nature in its national constitution, according to the Nonhuman Rights Project.

The nation possesses a diverse range of animals and wildlife, such as those on the Galapagos Islands. As a result this ruling will be monumental in ensuring animals are protected from poachers and disturbances to their natural environments.

Given the detrimental effects of global warming on animals and the natural world, utilizing the law is a powerful move other countries must take as well.

Following Ecuador’s lead, Colombia, New Zealand, Panama, Chile and Mexico have also granted legal protections for nature through their constitutions and courts, according to EuroNews. The United States must follow suit.

In an ever-changing world, nature must be protected. The United States must amend the Constitution to safeguard animal rights and preserve the natural world to ensure future generations can appreciate our planet as we see it today.

Despite the myriad of social injustices in the HHS community and beyond, apolitical sentiments are still pervasive. Political involvement is vital to combat these problems, which primarily affect marginalized students.

To apoliticize is to avoid matters that affect students, staff and the rest of the HHS community.

Although some issues are controversial, administration should encourage civic activity among the student body to create change.

Unfortunately apolitical sentiments are common among HHS students — approximately 24.9% of students are not affiliated with a political party, according to a survey of 338 students conducted by the Epitaph.

In a June 2020 message, Principal Greg Giglio said the school should support marginalized students, but it should refrain from taking political stances on social issues. In a later interview, he mentioned the importance of discussing subjects from a neutral perspective.

The truth is, whether it is ex-

IGNORANCE IS BLISS: Privilege shields apolitical people from the worst repercussions of their own inaction.

Revamp ASB campaigns Foster equity in elections

By Anushruti Nagarajan ASB is a powerful platform sions with a greater network of that serves to represent our stu- students online.

Both campaigning in person dent body’s interests and goals.

Leadership is a valuable way for and online require the same students to voice their opinions level of dedication and effort by and facilitate immediate change the candidates. However, social on campus. Although leader- media is superior, as it is not as ship has made significant prog- physically or mentally draining ress in preserving the integrity for the candidates. Social meand fairness of ASB elections, dia allows students to showcase there are a number of policies their creativity, helping them that can be implemented to stand out against competitors.

Additionally, retaining the further improve this system.

Implementing these changes school wide vote but also addwill transform ASB elections ing an interview will allow the into a more equitable process voices of the student body to be considered, while also ensuring for candidates.

The leadership class has that the elected candidates are tried to eliminate bias by pro- truly qualified for their posihibiting candidates from cam- tions. The leadership class is paigning on social media plat- working on implementing this forms. Although campaigning component to make the process on social media may provide more equitable and accessible, more “popular” students with ASB IDC commissioner Sarah a slight advantage, the benefits Yun said.

With leadership’s role in of allowing students to use the planning events, dances and internet far outweigh the costs.

Social media allows candi- rallies, it is no doubt a unique dates to be visible and transpar- and rewarding experience. Revamping the ent with their audience, while ASB election demonstrating their own dedprocess will ication to helping the school create a community. Enabling students more into advocate for themselves on clusive these platforms allows individand equiuals to be creative and showtable procase their personality through cess for all. campaigning. In addition, students with less perceived “popularity” will also have the opportunity to gain visibility on these platforms and reach a larger audience.

Rather than being restricted to the conIllustration by Seoyoung Hwang fines of school hours and campaigning LEVEL PLAYING FIELD: Permitsolely on our campus, ting the use of social media and they will be able to share implementing interviews will improve their messages and vi- equity in elections.

PAGE DESIGN BY ERIN LOH AND ARIANA TEJEDA MORENO

Lifestyles

Thursday, May 26, 2022

A quote a day keeps the doctor away

FBLA application process commences

Discussing value of integrating quotes in daily lives

The start of a new era begins with a hunt for future officers

By Karuna Chandran and Madhavi Karthik

By Nina Vasquez Cruz

The Epitaph sat down with AP Calculus BC and Intro to Programming teacher Greg Burroughs to discuss his daily classroom tradition of having a quote of the day projected on the whiteboard. Afterward, students discuss their thoughts regarding the significance of the affirmation to start off the lesson.

The Epitaph: What value do you feel the quote of the day adds to the classroom experience?

Greg Burroughs: The intent of the quote of the day is to think about students’ skills or some ways to reflect a little broader about the class.

Sometimes it’s a little bit of an integrated introduction to what we might be talking about that day.

TE: How does the quote of the day accomplish what you hope achieve as a teacher?

GB: When you come in the door, there’s something that’s marking that you’re in the classroom. It’s a chance for you to talk with each other, hopefully with people who you don’t know so well.

The Epitaph asked students what their favorite motivational quotes are for coping with stress in their lives.

“Everything happens for a reason.”

-Aristotle Nicole Wolff (9): When I moved schools, I was really hesitant but then I realized, ‘No, this is what you were meant to do in the end,’ and even if it’s [difficult] at first, you will realize that it all works out afterward.

“Today, expect something good to happen to you no matter what occurred yesterday. Realize the past never holds you captive. It can only continue to hurt you if you hold on to it.”

-Sarah Ban Breathnach

Henna Chawla (11): I stress a lot about AP classes and grades and it reminds me that even if I did badly on one quiz or one test, I still have another chance, so it keeps me going.

Along with academics, I also have Photo by Karuna Chandran extracurriculars and pressure to [perform well].

Therefore, It helps not just for school [but life in general] because we all Photo by Karuna Chandran have a lot STAYING ON THEME: On several days, Burgoing on. roughs tries to align the quotes with the topics.

With the school year about their desired positions coming to an end, FBLA be- while crafting a project that repgins the process of selecting resents both their efforts and denext year’s officer team. Us- sired goals,” Wu said. ing a thorough selection proFollowing the initial round of cess, each step of the way is the application process, applivaluable as the experience is cants are required to participate similar to what students can in an interview, Wu said. expect in the professional “That element is meant for world, FBLA president, se- each candidate to express what nior Martin Wu said. they want us to know about them “Cover letter writing, without any interruptions,” Wu resume creation and inter- said. viewing are all skills each Current officers have seen person should be developing that more creative recruitment at some point in their career, methods, general meetings and meaning developing those project meetings lead to a stronskills now is crucially valu- ger member base. With this in able,” Wu said. mind, the club hopes to further In hopes of continuing engage next year’s members, exher officer journey in a new ecutive vice president, senior Tisposition, American Enter- hani Weerasuriya said. prise project co-chair, sophWith many candidates applyomore Krishna Mishra said ing, the current officer team is she is applying to gain new working hard to select the best learning experiences. candidates, Wu said.

“I have strengthened key “Our candidate pool this year skills such as leadership, is highly promising and I am public speaking and con- thrilled to see what they will acflict resolution,” Mishra said. complish,” Wu said. “The [new] “I’ve met a lot of great people team will have the awesome reand have had the rewarding sponsibility of spreading awareopportunity to compete.” ness of the opportunities FBLA Another step of the ap- provides and to continue to welplication process includes come all interested to partake in a required supplemental this experience.” project, which Photo by Lia Klebanov c o n sists of a concise d r a f t outline, Wu said.

“Supplemental projects are a great way for candid a t e s NEW FBLA OFFICERS: Candidates learn profesto learn sional methods of how to apply for a job.

Pleasure reading takes the back seat

By Erin Loh Isbell said. “I used to be able to read a couple books a day.”

However, Isbell said her time spent pleasure reading drastically declined when she became a junior, since she began devoting more of her time to schoolwork.

Isbell is not alone — other students, such as freshman Dev Mishra, have also had to give up reading when faced with more schoolwork.

Mishra said reading not only allowed her to destress, but also provided her with an outlet for her imagination.

She said she hopes HOMEWORK TAKES PRIORITY: Mishra said to pick up readshe wishes she had more time to read. ing again after

Photo by Erin Loh

Before this school year, junior Abigail Isbell said she enjoyed reading in her free time.

She said her freshman course load was light enough that she had ample time to read, and later, COVID-19 opened up her schedule even further.

“I read all the Twilight and Harry Potter books in a week,”

finals, when her schedule will be more free.

“I do miss reading because it was really calming,” Mishra said.

“Now, my life is getting hectic because I’m studying a lot.”

In the little free time she has, Mishra said she usually watches TV instead. “[Watching TV] is not as good because I don’t think as much when I’m watching TV compared when I’m reading,” Mishra said.

Similarly, freshman Jonathan Leib said he began reading less in the eighth grade. Although he would now choose to play video games and hang out with friends over reading a book, Leib said reading helped him cope with stress.

“Reading got my mind off of things,” Leib said. “But now, even if I want to, I don’t really have the time to do it. The fact that I

don’t really have any way to chill out and get rid of stress [makes it] exponentially worse.”

Although other students have dropped reading entirely, Isbell said she has substituted traditional novels for webtoons, which she said are online comics that are less time-consuming. Each episode is short, Isbell said, giving her an efficient way to experience the benefits of reading.

Despite enjoying webtoons, Isbell said their style of storytelling requires less of her imagination since readers look at illustrations rather than creating scenes in their minds.

“I miss being able to sit down and read and go to a different place,” Isbell said. “A lot of stories that are on webtoons are not available as actual books, which is nice, but I do miss reading physical books.”

5

REAL TALK

By Lia Klebanov Overcoming challenges is one of the most gratifying experiences one can go through.

Knowing you did everything in your power to achieve success, whatever the meaning of the word entails, is a prize on its own.

However, there are times when things do not go our way.

Whether this means getting a B in a challenging class or having to part with a friend group, there are some saddening outcomes that can make us forget the ever-so-important life journey.

As the school year comes to a close, I’ve reflected on the ups and downs of a turbulent time and managed to surprise myself once I fully understood how far I have come, how far all of us have come.

Just a year ago, I was sitting in my room all alone, logging into class and longing for everything to go back to the way it was. Coming back to school was an opportunity to do high school the “normal” way, and I was eager to explore the endless possibilities.

I was hard on myself the entire year and pushed myself to excellence in terms of defying expectations. At the same time, I would find myself getting caught up in the areas where I did not necessarily do well in. For example, why did I not do better on this test? Why does everyone else seem fine? Am I the only one who’s struggling?

Looking back, I wish I would have changed my mindset to better embrace imperfections by saying affirmations such as “that’s understandable – it’s been a challenging year.”

Celebrating all the milestones no matter the outcome and being compassionate is important as we are imperfect humans. Returning to somewhat normal life truly was a test of our tenacity and it’s safe to say we all passed.

So, even if it all did not work out, that’s perfectly fine. The people we have become and the lessons learned along the way are much more valuable.

PAGE DESIGN BY AIKO CHARON, RAJIV VENKATESH AND HARSHITHA VIJAYAKUMAR

6

Thursday, May 26, 2022

Disney Hall of Fame

By Madhavi Karthik and Ritaja Subrahmanya

Most likely to survive an apocalypse Mulan defies traditional gender roles and proves that women are just as adept as their male counterparts.

This warrior exemplifies the power of brains over brawn during her climb of a lofty pole. A quick thinker and fast on her feet, Mulan will outlast any zombies in an apocalypse.

Most gullible The Queen disguises herself as an old woman and attempts to poison Snow White. Snow White, who was at the dwarves’ cottage, welcomes the woman inside and foolishly eats the poisoned apple. We hope the princess improves her self-awareness as she enters adulthood.

Most likely to be a travel blogger Known for her bubbly spirit, Ariel’s curiosity for the human world and her drive for exploration makes her fit in with modern-day influencers. When Ariel comes across a fork, she thinks the contraption is a hairbrush, establishing her future career as a trendsetter.

Most likely to remain high school sweethearts No Disney couple has a healthier relationship than Flynn Rider and Rapunzel. They are the definition of “opposites attract,” since they support each others’ goals despite their differences. Their maturity and romance make us believe their relationship will last forever.

Biggest flirt Quite possibly pulling off the most extravagant scheme in Disney history by hiding behind the facade of a wealthy prince, it is evident Aladdin is willing to go to great lengths for his romantic pursuits. With access to the magic carpet, Aladdin has no trouble in the love department.

Illustrations by Ritaja Subrahmanya

Arts & Culture

Singing their way to stardom

Musicians discuss experiences with composing, producing

By Lindsey Steel through com$AVAGEMM posing and Not many Homestead students writing their can say they have collaborated own songs, with BigKayBeezy, an artist with 35 million streams on Spotify. But Reiter said.

Being a this is true for sophomore Aditya part of the Vij, who said he has been mixing band, Ochoa and writing his own rap music for said, has also three years.

Vij, who goes by the stage allowed the musicians to name $AVAGEMM, said he was gain more inspired to start a musical career confidence in of his own after listening to rap artists such as Lil Durk and Lil their playing.

Photo courtesy of Eternal Soulstice “[Playing Baby.

ROCK AND ROLL: Eternal Soulstice has perVij said his creativity has few in Eternal formed at numerous locations, such as Baylands Park and Homecoming.

Soulstice] has limits, as he writes lyrics almost Rapper $AVAGEMM and helped me push myself,” Ochoa daily. However, writer’s block band Eternal Soulstice discuss said. “Getting really into music acts as a barrier for him, he said, their careers and experiences with people who are just as inter- which hinders him every couple with making music throughout ested motivated me to want to do of weeks.

Despite the difficulties of conit more.” high school.

Similarly, Tandez said playing stantly writing lyrics and mixing in Eternal Soulstice has inspired and mastering vocals, Vij said Eternal Soulstice Four seniors united over their him to strive for improvement in the process of making music has been worthwhile, with his sinpassion for music in their fresh- his music.

“Playing guitar alongside gle “TENNIS CHAIN” reaching man year, forming the beginnings of what would later become Eter- other people who are talented 10,000 streams on Spotify.

Above all, the most important nal Soulstice. This rock band, made me want to improve,” Tanthing he has learned by being a dez said.

“I didn’t want to play in which consists of seniors Nir Reiter, Catherine Head, Gabriel front of [my bandmates] and let musician is resilience, Vij said.

“I’ve learned patience along Ochoa, Tamir Eliaz and Alexan- them down.” the way,” Vij said. “It’s a skill I’ve Ultimately, playing as a band der Tandez, was created soon after the musicians began playing has heightened individual cre- gained because it takes a lot of together recreationally, Reiter ativity among the players and patience to mix and write songs.” motivated them said. broaden When naming themselves, to Eliaz said, the band wanted to their horizons, create an oxymoron, similar to Ochoa said.

“Releasing Led Zeppelin.

“Our idea [for Eternal Soul- music in the stice] came from the definition band made me of eternal, meaning to last for- want to create music ever, and the definition of sol- more stice, which is the longest day of of my own,” said. the year,” Ochoa said. “The idea Ochoa up stemmed from [our experience “Coming with] COVID-19, when every day with songs for felt really long.” the band enHaving played together for couraged me to most of high school, the members write my own Photo by Keshav Kumar of Eternal Soulstice have gained songs and re- MIXING AND MASTERING: Rapper $AVAGEMM a sense of appreciation for music lease them.” produces his own original mixes and lyrics.

Not just a one-hit wonder

Lord Huron’s lesser-known music deserves greater recognition

By Saira Ahmed Lord Huron has been producing folk and indie masterpieces since 2010. This Los Angeles band is composed of four members, including lead singer and guitarist Ben Schneider. With Schneider’s signature emotional voice, Lord Huron is able to create hauntingly beautiful music.

Despite receiving millions of streams for their song “The Night We Met,” Lord Huron’s discography has mostly remained in the dark. It is time for their hidden gems, many of which are featured in their albums “Lonesome Dreams” and “Strange Trails,” to gain greater recognition.

I have yet to find songs from other artists that are as interesting yet relaxing as “The Ghost on the Shore.” When first listening to this track, the introduction may be underwhelming — but when you know what follows, it makes perfect sense. The instrumentals of this song are flawless:

the harmonica in the introduc- same tune as the happiest song of For example, “Meet Me in the Schneider’s passionate vocals tion flows perfectly into the gui- the album. However, Lord Huron Woods,” a song appearing much shine more clearly than they do tar that appears later in the song, made that transition perfectly by later in the album, can put a smile in other songs in this album.

The way Lord Huron is still which ties directly into the vo- using the same melody and in- on anyone’s face. This bright cals. This song is a poetic musical strumentation to blend the songs song may lyrically follow the idea able to weave underlying themes journey — a masterpiece that I together. of feeling lost in one’s self, but of wanderlust and love into these have listened the tune is so two songs casts a light on their cheerful that talent and expertise. to on repeat all depressLord Huron is a truly excepfor months. ing traces fade tional band because of their diThe dyaway. In com- verse discography, filled with namic album “Strange parison to the colorful emotions and unique Trails” beupbeat songs narratives. gins with produced these They are able to transition days, this one seamlessly from a cheerful song “Love Like has an unparal- like “Meet Me in the Woods” to a Ghosts,” the ideal introleled melody I darker, melancholic one like “The duction to never get tired Yawning Grave” in one album a seemingly of. with flawless execution.

“The Yawnheartbreak“The Night We Met” is uning Grave” is doubtedly a musical masterpiece, ing album.

Because of an emotionally but Lord Huron has so much its darker charged song more to offer than that one track. undertones, about death, a Their musical range and years of stark contrast music production make them a I did not Photo by Saira Ahmed to “Meet Me fantastic band, and I highly recexpect it to HAUNTINGLY BEAUTIFUL ALBUMS: Lord Huron has more to offer contain the than “The Night We Met.” in the Woods.” ommend giving them a listen.

PAGE DESIGN BY NICOLE KIM AND ZEINAB RAKHSHANDEHROO

7 Athletic Achievements

Scoreboard

Thursday, May 26, 2022

Players reflect on accomplishments throughout their seasons From left: Emily Zhang (12) and Naomi Chow (12)

Photo by Dan Penalosa

From left: Chris Miyai (10) and Mark Fekete (10)

“We lost most of our games, [but] won our last and most important game [in the league]. I had a couple of good runs, tackles and sacks during the game. The most important highlight of the season was getting moved up to varsity and playing in the championship finals.”

Photo by Madhavi Karthik Photo by Dan Penalosa

From left: Eric Ko (9) and Matthew Chan (9)

George Gutierrez (10) (Football)

Photo by Niyatee Jain Photo by Anushruti Nagarajan

Kailash Menon (12)

Rino Sugiyama (11)

Photo by Amber Birrell

Eugenie Lanilis (11) (Swimming) “Some of my highlights of the season were [competing in] leagues and getting two best times in the 50-yard freestyle and 100yard freestyle. We also won two relays and [it felt good] anchoring those relays in my team. My teammates were really motivating and I would not want to race with anybody else.”

From left: Antonio Solorio Barragan (11), Jason Muktarian (11), Charlie Castaneda (11) and Nathan Fletcher Ferreira (12)

Skyler Sauer (12)

Elaine Cao (10) (Basketball)

Photo by Amber Birrell Photo by Karuna Chandran

Photo by Mae Richardson

From left: Nicole Dressel (10), Catherine Zhang (12) and Jordyn Ortiz (11)

From left: Conner Monsen (9), Carter Beitel (10) and Pelleg Shani (10)

“[When we first played Los Gatos], we lost to them by ten. It was a hard loss because they were one of the stronger competitors in the league, but we knew we could not have beat them.

But [for me], it was my best game in a really long time – I hadn’t scored that much since seventh grade. The way my teammates supported me made me feel special.”

Photo by Joss Broward

Stars on the sidelines

Trainers share benefits of learning sports medicine

By Karuna Chandran, Lia Klebanov and Ariana Tejeda Moreno When the football field is filled with players warming up and the crowd is waiting in anticipation, the athletic trainers on the sidelines are on the edge of their seats, ready for the exact moment they are needed.

To provide a hands-on opportunity for those interested in sports medicine, athletic trainer and health clerk Dan Yusim said he runs an internship program that has grown in popularity over the last several years. “[Students start off saying], ‘Hey, I might be interested in becoming an athletic trainer or going to school for nursing, physical therapy or occupational therapy,” Yusim said. “[The internship] gives them an eye-opening experience to see if that’s something that they’re interested in doing.”

One of the aspects of the role, Yusim said, includes having assorted tasks that vary daily, since the workload relies on which sport is in season.

To be accepted into the program, candidates have to be either juniors or seniors and have a minimum GPA of 3.0, as Yusim said he wants his trainers to find a desirable balance between school and extracurriculars.

“We have a certain amount of trainers that participate in the fall, winter and spring based on what sports are available,” Yusim said. “[Many athletic trainers] do participate in sports here at HHS, so we tend to have those students help in their offseason.”

Junior Xochitl Neely said her passion for athletic training began after finding a way to apply her interests for the benefit of the student body.

“I really love sports and helping people,” Neely said. “I put those together and figured that sports medicine is my thing. Because I get injured a lot while playing sports, so learning how to fix those injuries [is relevant to me].”

Neely said she knew the best way to accomplish her goals would be to talk to Yusim and see if this was an opportunity she could pursue further with his help.

“I knew the first step to getting myself acclimated to the whole sports and physician world would be [becoming] an athletic trainer or an intern for one,” Neely said. “I knew a little [about sports medicine before] but joining this internship and gaining the experience from that made me realize that this is what I want to do.”

Fellow athletic trainer, junior Ningning O’ Brien said she was able to use her experience as an athletic trainer to gain new insights on her injuries and take better care of herself.

“I hope to take away a lot of knowledge in [the self-care and medicine] area because I hope to participate in a sport during college,” O’Brien said. “This knowledge will help me and my

new teammates in the future.”

The junior said she intends to learn as much as possible in her time as an athletic trainer to acquire life-skills. She said these lessons will assist her in any injury-related situation in

the future and equip her with valuable experiences.

“It’s a great concept to continue learning about,” O’Brien said. “You can help others and yourself, and this knowledge stays with you forever.”

Photo courtesy of Xochitl Neely

THE UNSUNG HEROES: Yusim said his athletic trainers bring

awareness to students and are provided with first hand experience of anatomy that will aide them in college.

PAGE DESIGN BY JOSS BROWARD, ANUSHRUTI NAGARAJAN AND RAYMOND RANBHISE

“I’ve always been a big fan of nature, so I decided to incorporate it into my personal spaces. Succulents are a great decoration and they brighten up every space.”

Photo by Mae Richardson

Jamie Nguyen (10)

“Being in nature and raising plants helps me calm myself in the midst of all the stress from school. Raising plants helps me take my mind off of things and is rewarding.”

Alice Yu (11)

“You should start with two plants because that way you won’t forget about them.”

Plant in pairs

“If the plant is in the soil, water once a week. If it’s in a pot, you’re going to water three times a week and fertilize every week.”

Supplement your soil

“If you are overwatering, you’re going to have a big green plant with no blossoms or fruit.”

Water well, but not too well

“Cherry tomatoes are very forgiving, and you will feel like a million bucks because you have produced all these lovely things that you can eat.”

Tomatoes make terrific starters

Advice from Penny Lane Farm’s Diane Matarangas

Embrace your green thumb

Surrounded by the swirling sands of the Mojave Desert lies the largest freestanding boulder in North America: Giant Rock. Over seven stories tall, Giant Rock has a unique history ranging from Native Americans to housing conspiracy theorists, according to SF Gate.

Droughts and wildfires linger in the shadows of the pleasant weather and perfectly blue skies. In California, it is difficult to ignore the effects of global warming. To combat this environmental crisis, junior Asha LaManque is taking matters into her own hands.

As a child, LaManque said she watched numerous nature documentaries that transformed her outlook on the world. Topics such as climate change were mentioned frequently, which inspired LaManque to further her research and understand these issues. Through her explorations, she said she began

to learn about sustainability practices.

“Learning about sustainability practices has helped me see the world from a more interdisciplinary angle,” LaManque said. “It’s helped me understand economic and societal issues, which allows me to be more aware about the connections between people and the environment.”

Because of her love for the environment, LaManque said she was inspired to pursue sustainable practices and implement new routines into all aspects of her life. She said she became a vegetarian a few years ago to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions resulting from animals.

“When it comes to food, I make sure to buy organic or locally grown produce,” LaManque said. “I try to be aware of the entire supply chain of where products come from.”

Spring is marked by the sweet scent of cherry blossoms in the air. Cherry blossom festivals flourish across California, showcasing Japanese culture and celebrating the beauty of nature.

It is important to make an effort to be more sustainable, LaManque said, because the effects of global warming are constantly seen. She said even small actions, such as choosing to walk or bike to school, can make a lasting difference.

“We’re about to reach a tipping point,” LaManque said. “There is a time limit to resolving the issue of climate change. One action, no matter what, will impact our future.”

Ultimately, LaManque said being environmentally conscious has helped her gain a better understanding of nature, since she now knows her place in the world and her impact on the environments around her.

“Everything on our planet is interconnected,” LaManque said. “Nature is essentially the world around us, and it represents who we are.”

By Amber Birrell and Ritaja Subrahmanya

Junior Asha LaManque describes sustainability journey

Protecting our planet

Nature serves as a haven for numerous plants and animals, opening doors for humans to explore the beauty of our planet. The serenity found in this greenery is unparalleled, allowing students to escape their busy lives.

Tomales Point

At the northern tip of Point Reyes National Seashore, Tomales Point is one of the only places in California where native Tule Elk can be spotted.

PAGE DESIGN BY AMBER BIRRELL, MAE RICHARDSON AND RITAJA SUBRAHMANYA ILLUSTRATIONS BY AMBER BIRRELL AND RITAJA SUBRAHMANYA

This delicate ecosystem is cherished as one of the best marine life habitats in Northern California.

Explore tidepools, which serve as a home to sea urchins, anemone, hermit crabs, sea stars and even the occasional octopus.

Fitzgerald Marine Reserve

Photo by Saira Ahmed

North of San Francisco, visitors can feel the salty ocean spray. Salt Point State Park is home to the tafoni phenomenon, which produces intricate, honeycomb like rock patterns.

Salt Point State Park

The Municipal Rose Garden in San Jose is the perfect spot to take beautiful prom photos next to the dazzling, blue fountain and dark, red roses. Stop by the rose garden to enjoy the scenery or have a peaceful picnic.

Photo by Saira Ahmed

Municipal Rose Garden

Located in Saratoga, Hakone Gardens is a tranquil Japanese garden. The area contains towering bamboo, a dry Zen garden with patterns of gravel and a tea garden featuring colorful flowers.

Hakone Gardens

By Mae Richardson and Ritaja Subrahmanya

Spotlight Explore the natural wonders of California

Photo courtesy of Stay Happening

Thursday, May 26, 2022

Photo courtesy of San Mateo Parks Department

8 NURTURING NATURE

Photo courtesy of Jamie Ngyuyen

Photo by Ritaja Subrahmanya

Pho

As the class of 2022 ends our chapter of high school,

to c o

urte

sy o

f Nik

we begin another, preparing to grow new roots.

ki L

iu

This special edition of the Epitaph, known as Senior Spotlight, is dedicated to showcasing our four years together at HHS.

Photo

Photo courtesy

to co

sy urte

Pho

Ph

sy of E

noch L

ee

of Nikki Liu

dke

Pha

sad

mna A

sy of A

urte oto co

argi

of G

courte

Photo co

urtesy of

Photo co

urtesy of

Angeline

Zhu

Mallory M

itton

PAGE DESIGN BY LEILA SALAM ILLUSTRATIONS BY DAN CHUANG

2

Senior Spotlight

Thursday, May 26, 2022

Our 4 years: a timeline 2019-2020 WW3 scare Tensions between the U.S. and Iran sparked discussion regarding the potential for a third world war.

Many memes arose amongst the younger generation regarding the potential of a draft reinstatement.

2018-2019: Freshman rallies

Photo courtesy of Nikki Liu

By Leila Salam

Coming into high school, our class had no idea we would be the last to experience many of the traditional school events. Our freshman class was the last class to have a traditional BOTC: including powderpuff and indoor rallies.

With changing traditions, the senior class has changed too, especially in terms of spirit, ASB president Nikki Liu said.

“During freshman year, we begged people to do the cheer offs,” Liu said. “Now, we don’t need to push as much. We’ve seen seniors take that initiative and be spirited for themselves.

Additionally, we were one of the last classes to perform a dance routine during our freshman orientation in the large gym in front of our classmates. The activity was removed the following year by the current HOP commissioners as the tradition was viewed as a hazing ritual, HOP commissioner Emily Jacquemin said.

Career fair

COVID-19

By Leila Salam

During sophomore year, the school offered its biennial two-week long career fair. This meant walking around to different classrooms during tutorials to hear professionals speak in their respective fields. Senior Defne Clarke said she remembers the career fair because there was one presenter in particular that stood out to her: a graphic artist who worked for a design firm.

“I remember, a lot of the art kids came,” Clarke said. “She told us, ‘graphic design isn’t the art you think it is’ and that it’s a lot of dealing with what the customer expects,” Clarke said.

“It had a lot of real-life applications. I feel like it was worth it because I got something out of that.”

Although the career fair was helpful for Clarke, she said it was also a bit disappointing.

“I wish it wasn’t the only art-related job at the career fair,” Clarke said. “I wish they had more options because there were a lot of people in that class. A lot of different types of artists were only being represented by one career.”

Senior Matteo Alemany had a similar experience of being disappointed as many presentations focused on engineering, computer science and other STEM fields.

“It was obvious the school had focused on the most popular career paths here at Homestead,” Alemany said. “That makes sense but as someone who’s not interested in any of those, I was really disappointed. And I think it shows that they really favor people who want to go into those professions.”

2021-2022

After 1.5 years of being shut down, HHS completely reopened in fall 2021 for our final year in high school.

Remote learning “[Remote learning] was great. My mental health [flourished] because I had way more time to do what I actually wanted instead of being at school for 6-8 hours.”

- Shankhin Vijayakumar (12)

Senior prom

2020-2021 BLM “In 2020, the BLM movement was treated as just a trend rather than a movement based on protecting people's lives and rights. It’s beyond a political issue, it’s a reality for Black people.”

- Cage Anderson (12)

Election and Jan. 6 riots

“It’s a full circle moment, because [we have] senior sunrise at the beginning of the year. It’s the end to [such a big] chapter because high school has been such a big part of our lives.”

- Anika Walch (12)

Photo by Olivia Shen

Photo courtesy of Samuel Corum

AP classes, a global pandemic and college-prep season: our junior year was packed to say the least.

An event that impacted more than junior year was the 2020 presidential election and January 6 riots.

The political events spanned 2 months, each finding its way into the news and within HHS’s history classes.

“After the election, my [AP U.S. History] teacher, Mr. Gonzales, let us spend the period asking him questions,” senior Isabel Matta said. “Everyone was very engaged, which was pretty rare, for a Zoom class.”

History teacher Marc Gonzales said he wanted to give students the space to comfortably ask questions and voice their opinions regarding big political events.

“I want my students to guide their education, whether that be taking a full period or just 10 minutes, just allowing them that arena to explore,” Gonzales said. “Especially when it pertains to the government or something I know will be in history books.”

Seeing history in the making whilst in a history class allowed Matta to put things into perspective, she said.

“I understood the potential implications of what was happening more and it made it more meaningful and gave it weight,” Matta said.

Senior Sunrise

For many, senior prom is a continuation of junior prom; it’s a chance to redeem questionable outfits and reflect on poorly made shoe choices. But for our class, it only means one thing: the final event.

The COVID-19 pandemic shut down everything starting from March 2020 until the start of fall of 2021, including our junior prom. Meaning that our senior prom was our only prom.

“Because it’s both our first and last formal event, I want to go even more so, because we didn’t have a junior prom, and that’s what makes this senior prom more special,” senior Jennifer Lee said.

The cumulative build up from the lack of a junior prom has cultivated high expectations for this year’s prom.

“It’s amazing we’re allowed to do this, considering that everything has been shut down for the last few years. But it’s a lot of pressure on us to plan it because we want everyone that comes to enjoy and appreciate it, especially because it’ll be our only prom,” senior class president Christine Hoy said.

But regardless of what happens, senior prom is ultimately a chance for the seniors to gather together for one of the last times in high school and as a collective class.

“I just want to have fun with my classmates and friends before we all go our separate ways,” Hoy said.

Commit day

The pandemic shut down our 2nd semester sophomore and most of junior year.

By Olivia Shen

By Olivia Shen

Senior Sunset

Photo by Brevin Reed

“Senior sunrise was a really fun way to start senior year. [I loved] seeing everyone out on the field, especially after COVID-19, and I just love watching the sunrise.”

- Anika Walch (12)

Senior Assassin This game played by only seniors, in which players are assigned different targets each week to “kill” with water guns, was once again shut down and condemned by the administration.

“We only have one ‘commit day’ in high school. For some, there will be ‘graduate school commit day’ or ‘getting your dream job day’, but this day only happens once.”

- Jacquelyn Cao (12)

Ditch day

Photo courtesy of Zoe Cui

Fire alarms “I was in AP Statistics, which was extremely convenient [because we had a test], and when the bell rang, our teacher was freaking out and was like, ‘Guys, don’t talk about the test.’”

- Bebel Yen (12)

“I talked to people I didn’t usually talk to and that bonded us as a class, because it’s a day where we can do whatever we want, but we all chose to hang out with each other.”

- Tamara Toma (12)

PAGE DESIGN BY LEILA SALAM AND OLIVIA SHEN ILLUSTRATIONS BY KAYLENE SON

Senior Spotlight

3

Thursday, May 26, 2022

Some high schoolers pursuing non-conventional paths for their post high school education.

Photo by Olivia Shen

From doodles to masterpieces: Parker Sun, Otis School of Art and Design

By Josh Cantwell-Nahrung While many children have a quick stint with art and find their artistic capabilities never flourishing past stick figures and small doodles on their homework, senior Parker Sun found a passion for communicating her creativity through a pencil she said, which has now blossomed into what could be her future.

“I knew from a very early age that drawing was something that I was interested in,” Sun said, “but I don’t think there was a certain event that

occurred that made that happen. I just always enjoyed drawing more than any other hobby that I’ve done.”

While Sun has experimented with many forms of art, she finds the most enjoyment in perhaps the purest form of art.

“I like drawing with a pencil. It’s my favorite. I’d say whenever you start out drawing, it’s just a pencil and paper, and I really got into that,” Sun said.

Sun said she draws inspiration from various art forms and holds a special appreciation for very unique artistic elements.

Sun said she loves claymation and animation but has never had the chance to learn how to do digital art. Each of these mediums are things she is excited to learn about at the Otis school of Art and Design, she said.

Photo courtesey of Simon Kirschenbaum

Climbing the ranks: Simon Kirschenbaum, U.S. Military Academy at West Point

By Josh Cantwell-Nahrung Some of the most prestigious, academically and physically rigorous universities in the country are the fabled military institutions. Such universities require a level of development far beyond what most can achieve physically and in the classroom.

For senior Simon Kirschenbaum, the Unit-

ed States Military Academy at West Point is going to be home for the next four years. Kirschenbaum said a lot went into his decision making process after being admitted.

“I chose West Point because it puts you on a route to service,” Kirschbaum said. “You go to school for four years and then you are commissioned as an officer in the army. And during those four years, you get to develop physically, academically and as a person. It

Photo courtesey of Andy Lau

challenges you to be a better person.”

Although Kirschenbaum was admitted into other schools, he said West Point stuck out to him as an opportunity he could not pass up.

“It really came down to West Point or the University of Texas at Austin.

After I visited West Point, I reflected on it for a few days, and I realized that wasn’t the last time I ever wanted to go there,” Kirschenbaum said.

Onto the next league: Andy Lau, Claremont Mckenna College

By Naomi Baron Playing football has made up many of the happy memories senior Andrew Lau will look back on during his high school experience. Little did he know that his football career would continue onto Claremont McKenna’s college football field where he will be playing in the NCAA third division.

“The recruiting process was largely a lot of waiting, and it’s very anxiety-provoking,” Lau said. “For CMC, It began with me sending an email to the head coach with my film and football awards. I also talked with this coach during my junior year and got

a camp invite.”

Lau said his coaches also called the coaches at CMC to vouch for his personal qualities, such as perserverance and to advocate for him.

“After a lot of phone calls and waiting, I received a call from the head coach saying they had a spot for me and I was overjoyed,” Lau said.

While Lau said he is ecstatic to continue playing football in college, Claremont McKenna’s high academic ranking made it the obvious choice.

“The academic program’s strength and prestige are remarkable, especial-

ly for economics,” Lau said.

“Also, the small environment and the social atmosphere are very welcoming and inclusive and aren’t socially dead.”

Even though Lau is moving on to play for Claremont Mckenna, he said the lessons and bonds he has forged with his HHS team will forever remain with him.

PAGE DESIGN BY JOSH CANTWELL-NAHRUNG

4

Arizona

Arizona State University Eric Peterson Diego Puerta Austin Qi Alec Sanders University of Arizona Sean McDougall

Utah

As the class of 2022 leaves behind friendly faces, they look forward to the unknown. Though the culmination of their high school careers has been anything but normal, it serves to unite and prepare them for the future — whatever it may hold. With memories of their high school career cherished, the glimpse of a promising future on the horizon and anticipation brimming their eyes, seniors forego the familiarity of high school and its comfort and seek to find a new beginnings as they head into the wild.

California

Carrington College Eddie Pacheco Carbajal California College of the Arts Jonathan Lee California Institute of Technology Jena Alsup California Lutheran University Sebastian Saborio CSU, Chico Derek Devera Bella Dobbelaere CSU, Fullerton Aamir Muzaffar CSU, Humboldt Jordan Peterson Isabelle Wagner CSU, Long Beach Marine Brissot Anika Walch Cal Poly State University, Pomona Eric Chan Cole Christianson Clara Lee Megan Ventura Cal Poly State University, SLO Naomi Baron Libby Brill Pritika Chandna Eric Decasper Collin Fan Jonathan Hacker Jayden Legeard Ethen Mesde Pranay Sambaraju Marissa Young Chabot College William Lin Chapman University Joshua Cantwell-Nahrung Arjun Khosla Dylan Ho Sophie Salvucci Noga Belson Raz City College of San Francisco Jinyang Chen Claremont McKenna College Andy Lau De Anza College Jomar Abalos Kimberly Arevalo Lee Boon Efren Diaz Ruben Espinoza Maira Pedraza Estrada Kate Fergason Sophie-Maile Fischer Nils Giffon Catherine Head Tracey Huynh Jiahang Li Ethan Lille Princess Medina Alexis Miranda Jaiden Mortel Angel Murillo Jasmin Perez Hector Rosas Leila Salam Samman Shrestha

5

Senior Spotlight

Lousiana

University of Colorado, Boulder Kari Anderson

Georgia

De Anza College Naima Syed Joselyn Tinoco Citlaly Vergara Daphne Pinzon Zapata Foothill College Gregory Baker Lukas Lam Nicole Miller Summer Ybarra Laguna College of Art and Design Collin Yoshida Loyola Marymount University Sophia Molina Shaina Srivastava Mission College Sebastian Saborio Point Loma Nazarene Universtiy Shelby Riemenschnitter Santa Barbara City College Maya Keren Santa Clara University Megan Choy Luke Ma Gargi Phadke Sehej Shoker San Diego State University Kimmy Capio Aarav Chowdhary Lindsay Felipa Niamh O’Niell Jacob Tang Angeline Zhu San Francisco State University Milla Cacho Neil Salcedo Marena Gautschi Wade Katherine Wang San Jose State University Rukaiah Altuwarish Cooper Anderson Diya Agrawal Odin Bruyere Nicholas Cam Karen Chow Lin Iinuma Sharon Cecil Joseph Pranav Kulkarni Aayush Kumar Harinandan Kotamsetti Eden Lee Enoch Lee Gefei Ma Rod Moslemy

Emory University Matthew Lafrance Kailash Menon Daniel Sung San Jose State University Pratush Rai Mateus Ruiz-Hurst Ravid Senthilkumar Ronak Singh Isaac Srabian Travis Stankiewicz Shion Toda Abarron Wong Dhairya Vyas Sonoma State University Rachel Fletcher-Ferreira Betzaida Hermosillo Stanford University Irene Lin Arnuv Tandon Catherine Zhang Occidental College Jillian Rosset Otis College of Art and Design Parker Sun UC Berkeley Laksh Bhambhani Karan Dalal Ellora Goel Aditya Hariharan Frances Jing Erica Lee Josh Lee Peri Plantenberg Kasturi Sinha Kelvin Snell Tapish Singh Alexander Tandez Sakchhi Thapa Alex Um Tishani Weerasuriya Vicram Vijayakumar UC Davis Akshay Adsule Ye’ela Bronicki Ayaka Chapman Chris Cho Dainie Choi Sooinie Choi Gregory Chuang Jared Lee Vicram Penumarti Pranav Rawat Rominna Sharifi Adithi Sumitran Lauren Shintani Ruba Thekkath

UC Davis Shivani Varma Anna Zhou UC Irvine Valentino Arce-McQuade Nathan Cheng Naomi Chow Vincent Huang Paris Ikeda Lakshya Shrivastava UC Los Angeles Eugenia Cho Yu-Sheng Chuang Julia Gu Frank Hobson Jennifer Lee Sam Leistiko Jessica Li Shaashwath Sivakumar Kyra Sunil Jenna Wang Amanda Xu UC Merced Siya Agarwal Andrew Lopez Medha Mukherjee Harsh Patel Nicolas Perez Yen Zhikai Xu UC Riverside Amiko Brown Reina Jung Willow Nicholson Delaney Ong Rhea Shettigar Dylan Uyeda UC San Diego Isabella Cheng Marissa Lee Kristen Lee Jay Paek Nir Reiter Kritika Vedula Sofia Violet Emily Wong Marcus Wurts Bebel Yen Lucas Zeng UC Santa Barbara Armon Amirazizi Eli Chan Indhu Chandra Suditi Dadichi

UC Santa Barbara Emily Guerra Riya Gupta Christopher Hariman Minnie Karki Whitney Lopez Marc Noujiem Allison Park Olivia Shen Janhavi Singhal Brian Sun Ilai Tamari UC Santa Cruz Defne Clarke Timothy Liu Nicholas Maruyama Madison Tippett University of San Francisco Piper Kindle Rene Picson Leila Tselner University of the Pacific Chaeyeon Lee University of Southern California Tingyo Chang Ellen Cheng Shamoli Ghosh Nikki Liu Brian Sathy Kate Shin Collin Stillman Julie Wan Sophia Zhang West Valley College Amelie Moya Araya Prasobsri Caroline Spencer Maria Contreras Tostado

Colorado

Colorado State University Nathan Kim Megan McDougall Ryan Murphy Jack Ohman Neel Sidhu Metropolitan State University of Denver Roni Fishman

Hawaii

University of Hawaii, Manoa Emily Jacquemin Derek Sheerer Mia Tarkington

Idaho

Boise State University Ryan Markley The College of Idaho Will Hook

Illinois

Northwestern University Leah Jang Irena Liu School of the Art Institute of Chicago Kate Estes University of Illinois-Urbana Champaign Adarsh Bhandari Rishab Borah Stephanie Hsing Eileen Kim Edward Wang University of Chicago

Dalia Querenet Onfroy de Breville

Indiana

Indiana University Annabelle Bussey Srikar Gudipati Trevor Hall Connor Kane Jasper Li Raj Penmetcha Tamara Toma Trevor Woo Richard Zhang Purdue University Adithya Senthil Feiran Xu

Iowa

Drake University Owen Rotbert Grinnell College Ella Berman Iowa State University Kassy Hernandez

Tulane University Shyla Krishnappa Bobby Gorelick

Maryland

Johns Hopkins University Jacquelyn Cao University of Maryland Kenny Wu United States Naval Academy Yelin Tahk

Massachusetts

Brandeis University Tal Barzvi Boston University Josue Sanchez Saanvi Thakur Sachin Thapa Florence Wang Emerson College Shreya Partha MIT Raymond Feng Kyle Fu Christine Watts Northeastern University Olivia Heynes Mallory Mitton Nandini Shah Tejas Kurkure UMass Amherst Aditya Pandian

Michigan

University of Michigan Emily Jennett

New York

Columbia University Evan Spielvogel Cornell University Aamrita Kishore Emiline Labee New York University Nat Chin Zoe Cui Allison Fergason Marina Ong Evelyn Qiu Benjamin Sun Martin Wu Emily Zhang Edward Zhou Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Nicholas Bilsborrow University of Rochester Ryan Chan Mithi More Vassar College Elaine Yang

Brigham Young University Hannah Siu University of Utah Aidan Callahan

Vermont

University of Vermont Olivia Alvarado

West Point Military Academy Simon Kirschenbaum

New Jersey

Virginia

James Madison University Luke Pimlott

Washington

Montclair State University Vered Polonsky Rutgers Unviversity Atharv Koratkar

University of Washington Shiven Arya Julia Dupin Dana Perry Tamra Tawakol

Miami University Lauren Becker Naim Ouafi Case Western Reserve University Christine Kim Kunal Sunil Ohio State University Katy Perry Sayaka Limura Oberlin College Asha Agarwal

American University Amna Asad Priyanka Griffith Ethan Mahimainathan George Washington University Megan Kim Isabel Matta

Washington D.C.

Ohio

Wisconsin

University of Wisconsin, Madison Rohan Ahuja Daniel Gao Joshua Han Goni Hutt Kritika Kakade Hannah Kim Surbhi Yadav

Oregon

Oregon State University Anna Medvedeva Rino Sugiyama University of Oregon Suzy Belford Elias Contreraz Kaden Gamble Colin Geffon Jimmy Snell Noya Zamir Mose Kim Adriana Piche Faith Yin Willamette University Matteo Alemany

Pennsylvania

And More

Carnegie Mellon University Andra Liu Chloe Poon Lehigh University Maxwell Tran Pennsylvania State University Claire Flickner University of Pittsburgh Xinyu Zhao

Rhode Island

Brown University Kaylee Gallagher

South Carolina

Clemson University Justin Wade

Texas

UT Austin Virginia Anderson Thomas Fung Rice University Erin Ni

Gap Year Alejandra Bedolla Jonathan Benayoun Niko Charles Daniel Frey Jennifer Diaz Fuentes Raz Ben Haim Kiana Guerrero Michal Kadar Jonathan Levi Alessia Rella Emy Salcedo Working Max Whetzel Yukari Zapata

International

University of British Columbia Kat Lim Maya O’Higgins Skyler Sauer Thien-Nhi Vu Trinity Western University Nicole Dressel University of Toronto Tim Liu New Zealand AJ Filley Brown NYU Shanghai David Zhou PES University Rithvik Muthyalapati Trade School Savannah Sanchez

PAGE DESIGN BY SHREYA PARTHA, NAOMI BARON AND LEILA SALAM

4

Arizona

Arizona State University Eric Peterson Diego Puerta Austin Qi Alec Sanders University of Arizona Sean McDougall

Utah

As the class of 2022 leaves behind friendly faces, they look forward to the unknown. Though the culmination of their high school careers has been anything but normal, it serves to unite and prepare them for the future — whatever it may hold. With memories of their high school career cherished, the glimpse of a promising future on the horizon and anticipation brimming their eyes, seniors forego the familiarity of high school and its comfort and seek to find a new beginnings as they head into the wild.

California

Carrington College Eddie Pacheco Carbajal California College of the Arts Jonathan Lee California Institute of Technology Jena Alsup California Lutheran University Sebastian Saborio CSU, Chico Derek Devera Bella Dobbelaere CSU, Fullerton Aamir Muzaffar CSU, Humboldt Jordan Peterson Isabelle Wagner CSU, Long Beach Marine Brissot Anika Walch Cal Poly State University, Pomona Eric Chan Cole Christianson Clara Lee Megan Ventura Cal Poly State University, SLO Naomi Baron Libby Brill Pritika Chandna Eric Decasper Collin Fan Jonathan Hacker Jayden Legeard Ethen Mesde Pranay Sambaraju Marissa Young Chabot College William Lin Chapman University Joshua Cantwell-Nahrung Arjun Khosla Dylan Ho Sophie Salvucci Noga Belson Raz City College of San Francisco Jinyang Chen Claremont McKenna College Andy Lau De Anza College Jomar Abalos Kimberly Arevalo Lee Boon Efren Diaz Ruben Espinoza Maira Pedraza Estrada Kate Fergason Sophie-Maile Fischer Nils Giffon Catherine Head Tracey Huynh Jiahang Li Ethan Lille Princess Medina Alexis Miranda Jaiden Mortel Angel Murillo Jasmin Perez Hector Rosas Leila Salam Samman Shrestha

5

Senior Spotlight

Lousiana

University of Colorado, Boulder Kari Anderson

Georgia

De Anza College Naima Syed Joselyn Tinoco Citlaly Vergara Daphne Pinzon Zapata Foothill College Gregory Baker Lukas Lam Nicole Miller Summer Ybarra Laguna College of Art and Design Collin Yoshida Loyola Marymount University Sophia Molina Shaina Srivastava Mission College Sebastian Saborio Point Loma Nazarene Universtiy Shelby Riemenschnitter Santa Barbara City College Maya Keren Santa Clara University Megan Choy Luke Ma Gargi Phadke Sehej Shoker San Diego State University Kimmy Capio Aarav Chowdhary Lindsay Felipa Niamh O’Niell Jacob Tang Angeline Zhu San Francisco State University Milla Cacho Neil Salcedo Marena Gautschi Wade Katherine Wang San Jose State University Rukaiah Altuwarish Cooper Anderson Diya Agrawal Odin Bruyere Nicholas Cam Karen Chow Lin Iinuma Sharon Cecil Joseph Pranav Kulkarni Aayush Kumar Harinandan Kotamsetti Eden Lee Enoch Lee Gefei Ma Rod Moslemy

Emory University Matthew Lafrance Kailash Menon Daniel Sung San Jose State University Pratush Rai Mateus Ruiz-Hurst Ravid Senthilkumar Ronak Singh Isaac Srabian Travis Stankiewicz Shion Toda Abarron Wong Dhairya Vyas Sonoma State University Rachel Fletcher-Ferreira Betzaida Hermosillo Stanford University Irene Lin Arnuv Tandon Catherine Zhang Occidental College Jillian Rosset Otis College of Art and Design Parker Sun UC Berkeley Laksh Bhambhani Karan Dalal Ellora Goel Aditya Hariharan Frances Jing Erica Lee Josh Lee Peri Plantenberg Kasturi Sinha Kelvin Snell Tapish Singh Alexander Tandez Sakchhi Thapa Alex Um Tishani Weerasuriya Vicram Vijayakumar UC Davis Akshay Adsule Ye’ela Bronicki Ayaka Chapman Chris Cho Dainie Choi Sooinie Choi Gregory Chuang Jared Lee Vicram Penumarti Pranav Rawat Rominna Sharifi Adithi Sumitran Lauren Shintani Ruba Thekkath

UC Davis Shivani Varma Anna Zhou UC Irvine Valentino Arce-McQuade Nathan Cheng Naomi Chow Vincent Huang Paris Ikeda Lakshya Shrivastava UC Los Angeles Eugenia Cho Yu-Sheng Chuang Julia Gu Frank Hobson Jennifer Lee Sam Leistiko Jessica Li Shaashwath Sivakumar Kyra Sunil Jenna Wang Amanda Xu UC Merced Siya Agarwal Andrew Lopez Medha Mukherjee Harsh Patel Nicolas Perez Yen Zhikai Xu UC Riverside Amiko Brown Reina Jung Willow Nicholson Delaney Ong Rhea Shettigar Dylan Uyeda UC San Diego Isabella Cheng Marissa Lee Kristen Lee Jay Paek Nir Reiter Kritika Vedula Sofia Violet Emily Wong Marcus Wurts Bebel Yen Lucas Zeng UC Santa Barbara Armon Amirazizi Eli Chan Indhu Chandra Suditi Dadichi

UC Santa Barbara Emily Guerra Riya Gupta Christopher Hariman Minnie Karki Whitney Lopez Marc Noujiem Allison Park Olivia Shen Janhavi Singhal Brian Sun Ilai Tamari UC Santa Cruz Defne Clarke Timothy Liu Nicholas Maruyama Madison Tippett University of San Francisco Piper Kindle Rene Picson Leila Tselner University of the Pacific Chaeyeon Lee University of Southern California Tingyo Chang Ellen Cheng Shamoli Ghosh Nikki Liu Brian Sathy Kate Shin Collin Stillman Julie Wan Sophia Zhang West Valley College Amelie Moya Araya Prasobsri Caroline Spencer Maria Contreras Tostado

Colorado

Colorado State University Nathan Kim Megan McDougall Ryan Murphy Jack Ohman Neel Sidhu Metropolitan State University of Denver Roni Fishman

Hawaii

University of Hawaii, Manoa Emily Jacquemin Derek Sheerer Mia Tarkington

Idaho

Boise State University Ryan Markley The College of Idaho Will Hook

Illinois

Northwestern University Leah Jang Irena Liu School of the Art Institute of Chicago Kate Estes University of Illinois-Urbana Champaign Adarsh Bhandari Rishab Borah Stephanie Hsing Eileen Kim Edward Wang University of Chicago

Dalia Querenet Onfroy de Breville

Indiana

Indiana University Annabelle Bussey Srikar Gudipati Trevor Hall Connor Kane Jasper Li Raj Penmetcha Tamara Toma Trevor Woo Richard Zhang Purdue University Adithya Senthil Feiran Xu

Iowa

Drake University Owen Rotbert Grinnell College Ella Berman Iowa State University Kassy Hernandez

Tulane University Shyla Krishnappa Bobby Gorelick

Maryland

Johns Hopkins University Jacquelyn Cao University of Maryland Kenny Wu United States Naval Academy Yelin Tahk

Massachusetts

Brandeis University Tal Barzvi Boston University Josue Sanchez Saanvi Thakur Sachin Thapa Florence Wang Emerson College Shreya Partha MIT Raymond Feng Kyle Fu Christine Watts Northeastern University Olivia Heynes Mallory Mitton Nandini Shah Tejas Kurkure UMass Amherst Aditya Pandian

Michigan

University of Michigan Emily Jennett

New York

Columbia University Evan Spielvogel Cornell University Aamrita Kishore Emiline Labee New York University Nat Chin Zoe Cui Allison Fergason Marina Ong Evelyn Qiu Benjamin Sun Martin Wu Emily Zhang Edward Zhou Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Nicholas Bilsborrow University of Rochester Ryan Chan Mithi More Vassar College Elaine Yang

Brigham Young University Hannah Siu University of Utah Aidan Callahan

Vermont

University of Vermont Olivia Alvarado

West Point Military Academy Simon Kirschenbaum

New Jersey

Virginia

James Madison University Luke Pimlott

Washington

Montclair State University Vered Polonsky Rutgers Unviversity Atharv Koratkar

University of Washington Shiven Arya Julia Dupin Dana Perry Tamra Tawakol

Miami University Lauren Becker Naim Ouafi Case Western Reserve University Christine Kim Kunal Sunil Ohio State University Katy Perry Sayaka Limura Oberlin College Asha Agarwal

American University Amna Asad Priyanka Griffith Ethan Mahimainathan George Washington University Megan Kim Isabel Matta

Washington D.C.

Ohio

Wisconsin

University of Wisconsin, Madison Rohan Ahuja Daniel Gao Joshua Han Goni Hutt Kritika Kakade Hannah Kim Surbhi Yadav

Oregon

Oregon State University Anna Medvedeva Rino Sugiyama University of Oregon Suzy Belford Elias Contreraz Kaden Gamble Colin Geffon Jimmy Snell Noya Zamir Mose Kim Adriana Piche Faith Yin Willamette University Matteo Alemany

Pennsylvania

And More

Carnegie Mellon University Andra Liu Chloe Poon Lehigh University Maxwell Tran Pennsylvania State University Claire Flickner University of Pittsburgh Xinyu Zhao

Rhode Island

Brown University Kaylee Gallagher

South Carolina

Clemson University Justin Wade

Texas

UT Austin Virginia Anderson Thomas Fung Rice University Erin Ni

Gap Year Alejandra Bedolla Jonathan Benayoun Niko Charles Daniel Frey Jennifer Diaz Fuentes Raz Ben Haim Kiana Guerrero Michal Kadar Jonathan Levi Alessia Rella Emy Salcedo Working Max Whetzel Yukari Zapata

International

University of British Columbia Kat Lim Maya O’Higgins Skyler Sauer Thien-Nhi Vu Trinity Western University Nicole Dressel University of Toronto Tim Liu New Zealand AJ Filley Brown NYU Shanghai David Zhou PES University Rithvik Muthyalapati Trade School Savannah Sanchez

PAGE DESIGN BY SHREYA PARTHA, NAOMI BARON AND LEILA SALAM

6

Senior Spotlight

Thursday, May 26, 2022

Choosing your future Careers, passions calling since childhood

By Yukari E. Hernandez

When senior William Lin was a child, he suffered a spine surgery and had to spend many months in the hospital. There he became uniquely interested in the nervous system.

“One of the doctors there shared his experience of observing other surgeons separate conjoined twins,” Lin said. “They would talk all about the different nervous systems that they carried.”

The nervous system and its connection to the brain piqued Lin’s interest.

Lin made it his mission to learn as much as he could about the human body.

Lin plans to attend community college before transferring to a UC or private school to further his education and career in medicine.

“Being a surgeon can be very hard and there’s a lot of studying. I hope to learn it all but at the same time I just want to be able to help those in need,” Lin said. “If I end up being any kind of doctor, I’ll be happy with it.”

William Lin:

Photo courtesy of William Lin

Paris Ikeda:

How the brain works and its functions has been an area of interest for senior Paris Ikeda since she was a

child.

Ikeda said she found her passion for brain functions as a child after a diagnosis to her own brain was revealed.

“When I was younger I had a brain disease, and since then I’ve always been interested in how the brain works,” Ikeda said.

Ikeda is double majoring in neuroscience and psychiatry at UC Irvine to pursue a future career as a pediatric psychiatrist, which consists of studying children’s behavior, development and mental health.

“The doctors that helped me when I was sick were super nice,” Ikeda said. “They made me feel safe despite what was going on in my life. I want to be that person for others.”

Photo courtesy of Paris Ikeda

Photo courtesy of William Lin

Photo courtesy of Paris Ikeda

Laksh Bhambhani:

Photo courtesy of Laksh Bhambhani

Building robots and learning about their different functions has been a field of interest for senior Laksh Bhambhani since he was six-years-old. Wanting to further his passion academically, Bhambhani is attending Cal Tech in the fall and majoring in computer science.

“I made my first robot when I was six and my passion for it just grew,” Bhambhani said. “When I joined Homestead, I joined the robotics club. Then, robotics just grew into computer science”.

Bhambhani grew up seeing his father’s engineering abilities and liked seeing the limitless solutions to problems within computer science.

“I want to go into different types of robotic scientist careers. They’re fun jobs,” Bhambhani said. “ Even just starting my own thing making robot dynamics seems pretty cool.”

Photo courtesy of Laksh Bhambhani

Future Entrepreneurs Success built from art and activism abilities

By Yukari E. Hernandez

Photo courtesy of Peri Plantenberg

CLIMATE CHANGE ACTION:

Plantenberg protests to fight against climate change.

There are a variety of global issues that need to be addressed, but one immediate issues is climate change, senior Peri Plantenberg said.

“When I was 14, I was sitting on the couch in my family’s living room. I read an article about the urgency and the threat of this environmental crisis, and I felt hopeless,” Plantenberg said. “My only thought was ‘I’m a kid, I can’t do anything’.

Then I learned about this organization and I realized that I could take action and make an immense impact.”

Plantenberg joined the Sili-

con Valley Youth Climate Action organization to fight climate change. With the inspiration to combat climate change it has been her mission to inspire others to join the movement.

“I think it is crucial that we publicize our impact. I think it doesn’t matter what you do as long as you publicize your actions and inspire,” Plantenberg said.

Plantenberg said she plans to major in business while taking a few environmental courses to better understand a greener economy and potentially start a green business with the hope of bettering the environment.

“I want to ultimately join or start a business that combats climate change.” Plantenberg said.

Plantenberg said she plans to achieve this in the upcoming years, while also encouraging others to voice their opinions to fight climate change.

“One thing I’ve learned is that individual actions are important, but they are not enough,” Plantenberg said. “I have seen that one person can motivate hundreds to take action and therefore thousands can motivate millions.”

Balancing social life as well as school life can get very difficult.

This is why senior Ruba Thekkath turned to bullet journaling for a safe organization activity, she said.

“My best friend and I used to be really close and just seeing her bullet journal really inspired me to start doing it too because I really liked art,” Thekkath said. “I really love the concept of bullet journaling because it was a way for me to be more creative in my daily life.”

High school is no joke when it comes to the hours of studying and dedication that classes require, Thekkath said. School and social life can get really hard to balance all at once but a good structure and time management can be really helpful, “Bullet journaling can serve as a tool that could help you be productive and kind of manage your life and essentially have it all together,” Thekkath said.

Thekkath started bullet journaling her freshman year, which inspired her to start an Instagram account where she shares her journaling designs and spreads to her ever-growing following.

“The feedback on my Insta-

Photo courtesy of Ruba Thekkath

BULLET JOURNALING ORGANIZING: Thekkath runs the

account, @Rubastudies, where she shows the art of journaling.

gram account that I have received has been incredibly sweet,” Thekkath said. “Everyone is just so supportive in that community.”

Thekkath is planning to attend UC Davis to study economics, and said she still plans to continue her Instagram account, while also taking college student study strategies into account with her bullet journaling. At the same time, she still wants to incorporate her old styles and aesthetic.

“When producing artwork, it can be hard to not compare yourself to others,” Thekkath said.

“Always reminding yourself why you started can help you come back to your own purpose.”

PAGE DESIGN BY YUKARI E. HERNANDEZ ILLUSTRATIONS BY DAN CHUANG

Senior Spotlight

Thursday, May 26, 2022

Coping with rejection

7

Seniors discuss college admissions realities

By Bobby Gorelick

process and everyone deals with it in different ways.

“It is important to think about your other options and embrace those,” Lee said. “Take advantage of the schools you did get into and try not to be super depressed about the ones you didn’t get into because you have a path and that path is right for you.”

Lee said she was initially really disappointed when receiving her rejections, but when she looked at her other options, she saw them as still valid and became proud of herself for getting into other schools.

“You think that you do have a solid chance, you look at your stats and, you’re like, OK, I have a chance and then when you get rejected, you kind of get a reality

check,” Lee said. gain new experiences before colNoga Belson said getting re- lege,” Belson said.

Sehej Shoker said she was jected from colleges can feel degrading. rejected from all “This year four of the UCs she applied to and was was so hard and “YOU’RE MORE THAN WHAT YOUR a lot of people left disappointed.

GRADES ARE AND YOU’RE MORE “The way I didn’t get into THAN WHAT SCHOOLS THINK schools they moved forward YOU’RE CAPABLE OF, SO DON’T would typically was [acknowledgLOSE FAITH IN YOURSELF.” ing] I’m going to get into so that -SEHEJ SHOKER end up where I’m did kind of hurt supposed to be,” my confidence a Shoker said. “The little bit,” Belson said. “I feel like in the end, you school I did get accepted to and end up where you’re supposed am committed to is also a very good school.” to be most of the time.” Belson said she is currently committed Shoker said to Chapman University, but will be taking a gap year in Israel. to not “I just want to grow and stress yourmature while I’m there and

TAKING IN STRIDE: Jac-

quemin pushes forward after unexpected setbacks.

Photo courtesy of Emily Jacquemin

The college admissions process was a difficult challenge many seniors from the class of 2022 had to face. Most everyone gets rejected from colleges and it’s important to destigmatize this reality, which can be disappointing, but gives way for students to explore opportunities they may not have been able to otherwise pursue.

“Rejection is inevitable because you can’t get into everywhere you applied to,” Jennifer Lee said. “And I think I just expected to get rejected, so it wasn’t that bad. But rejection is redirection. It allows you to experience reality and what occurs in the real world.”

Eden Lee said rejection is a normal part of the admissions

self out too much over college admissions because school is not your whole life and does not determine your worth.

“You’ve probably heard that a lot but you actually have to believe it,” Shoker said.

“You’re more than what your grades are and you’re more than what schools think you’re capable of, so don’t lose faith in yourself.”

Senior year is marked with a plethora of landmarks like senior sunrise and prom.

While the final year of high school is a celebration of four years of hard work, it cannot be celebrated without the recognition and acceptance of all the rejection and painstaking effort it took to get there.

Emily Jacquemin: perseverance and resilience Photo courtesy of Maya Keren

By Olivia Shen

In applying to college, Emily Jacquemin built expectations for herself in terms of which colleges she anticipated getting into. “[While] I didn’t necessarily have expectations or a plan for myself, there were schools I realistically thought I might end up at,” she said.

Unfortunately, her projections fell short as she faced more rejection than she anticipated. While rejection was not a new experience, she hadn’t experienced this type of mass rejection anytime prior to senior year, Jacquemin said.

“It was really hard for me and a lot of people say, ‘Oh, this year

in her college decision after receiving rejections.

By Naomi Baron

Maya Keren: finding the right path Photo courtesy of Shiven Arya

By Leila Salam

“My first thought was to go to a four-year college because that’s what everyone around me was doing,” Keren said. “But then, when I got my decisions back, I realized the options I did have and it just pushed me more toward liking community college better.”

Keren realized she cared more about moving to a new location rather than finding a school.

“Community college was perfect for me because I don’t know what I want to major in and I don’t know what I want to do,” she said. “I need something that’s more freeing than a four-year but still out of the house.”

“Although it’s not necessarily where I saw myself going, there are many things I’m excited about,” Jacquemin said. “[Hopefully] I’ll be able to figure out what I want to do [in the future] and might as well have a good time while I’m doing it.”

Shiven Arya: moving forward

FINDING HER FREEDOM: Keren finds clarity

While rejection can feel like the end-all-be-all for some, it can help others realize the path they truly want to take. This was the case for Maya Keren, who decided to reevaluate her plan after getting rejected from some of her top picks, ultimately deciding to go to Santa Barbara City College.

“Community college is always talked about as an option,” Keren said “but I think there are so many more resources for four years. It’s the direct path that most people go to.

Keren said going to a fouryear college can feel like it is the only option unless you explore others yourself.

has been awful,’” Jacquemin said, “but I still compared myself to everyone else which was really tough.”

While Jacquemin became familiar with rejection, her fallbacks don’t discount her achievements, as she was accepted to and will be attending the University of Hawaii at Manoa.

CHANGE OF PLANS: Arya em-

barks on a surprising new experience.

Shiven Arya was not planning on going to an out-ofstate school. But, as a result of this year’s admission decisions, his plans were dramatically shifted and he ended up deciding on the University of Washington in Seattle.

“I never planned to go to UW but I always liked the school,” Arya said. “During my visit, I was like this is the prettiest campus I’ve ever been to, so I’m not too upset at that fact. It was mostly just surprising to me.”

Although Arya said he is excited to move to Seattle in the fall, he said his family was unprepared for the financial burden they would be faced with.

“We [my family and I] planned to go to the UCs and spend about $10,000 or $15,000 a year on tuition,” Arya said. “However, out-ofstate tuition for UW is about

$40,000 a year.”

Despite some of the drawbacks, Arya said there are many positives he did not see before.

“I’m grateful I got into UW. It’s not too big of an adjustment because it’s still along the west coast, so people there are similar and there is a similar diversity,” Arya said.

Now Arya said he is looking forward to moving to a new environment within a new state and the new experiences to come.

“I did not even mentally prepare myself to go to a different state for college,” Arya said. “At the end of the day, I’m happy with where I’m going. You can’t live in the past. You have to choose your best option and move forward with it in order to see what you can make of it.”

PAGE DESIGN BY BOBBY GORELICK ILLUSTRATIONS BY AVIV KESAR

8

Senior spotlight

Thursday, May 26, 2022 Farewell Seniors

Seniors, we wish we could start and end this letter with sweet nothings that reminisce of our memorable time at Homestead, but the reality is our high school experience has been the farthest from normal.

Perhaps we got lucky that we were able to create unforgettable memories in our senior year or perhaps our high school experience was tragically cut short. Yet, either way, we must remember it is not the external factors in our experiences that define us but rather how we choose to take them on.

We are more than the FBLA awards we received, we are more than the sports teams we’re on, and we will become more than our past. The resilience we’ve shown through unprecedented times serves as a testament to our character. Our ability to persevere and come out stronger — not despite it but because of it — is telling of our capability in taking on new challenges.

You are not defined by how many hours you studied nor are you defined by how long you spent partying, but instead by the growth of your character through your actions and your ability to empathize with those around you. As we embark on this new chapter in our lives, remember that it’s nothing new but rather something undiscovered. People, places and experiences ebb and flow throughout our lifetime and often we are simply left with memories to make a mark.

It’s hard to make space for growth or anything new when we haven’t let go of something good. Maybe our high school experience wasn’t ideal, but it was remarkable while it lasted. As Winnie the Pooh once said, we are lucky to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard. As we let go of this chapter, we make way for new beginnings, but we will never forget the memories.

Seniors, trust yourself to pave the way for the future. It’s OK to get discouraged and it’s OK to feel lost. What is most important is remembering you are the one who has pulled through this whole way and you are more than capable of taking on the future — no matter what it throws your way.

The above Senior Superlatives are from a senior survey of 84 responses.

Illustration by Anna Medvedeva and Jack Xu PAGE BY JACK XU