Lighting the Flame By: Meghan Kolcum and megan Ford
Photo Credit: Lauren Short
Tuscarora is home to many twins, including (from L to R) Madison and Meagan Russell, Max and Maren Reynolds, Jacob and Jack Dagon, Rebecca and Michael McHale, and (in the front row) Breanna and Courtney Shiflett.
Seeing Double:Tusky Twins By: Breanna Shiflett
Every Homecoming Week, the students of Tuscarora High School come together to celebrate and compete in themed spirit days ranging from Neon Day to Superhero Day. A popular spirit day that has appeared all three years of the school’s history is Twin Day, a day when students dress up with a friend or sibling in matching clothes and silly accessories. But for a small percentage of Tusky students, Twin Day takes on a very different meaning. It is a day just like any other, where no dress up is required at all— because for them, Twin Day is every day. There are probably more twins at Tuscarora than one may originally think, since 1 in 30 new babies is part of a set of twins, according to a 2007 US study. This is the highest that the percentage has ever been, and the number of high school students who are twins is growing steadily with it — which means that more likely than not, you probably know a set of them. They could be identical twins and look exactly the same, to the point where you see one in the hallway and wave hello, only to
get a weird look in response before you realize that that was the wrong one. Or they could be fraternal twins, with their appearances ranging from looking almost exactly the same (to the point where you just simply insist that they must be identical) to looking like complete opposites of each other (to the point where you insist that they’re
“Siblings can be nosy and even competitive when they’re in the same grade.” -Rebecca McHale pulling your leg and they can’t be related at all). No matter the situation, the number of sets of twins at Tuscarora is on the rise. Being a twin can definitely provide for a different high school experience, but it really depends on the set of siblings as to how exactly it enhances the time. For juniors Kathryn and Christina Beaton, it certainly makes the adventure more worthwhile. Even though they both agree that they are different in personality, it doesn’t change the fact that they are very
close to each other. “Being a twin is fun,” Kathryn says. “They’re always there for you, no matter what.” Not only is the social aspect of the venture improved, but so is the academic. “We can help each other out with our homework,” says Christina, “and if you miss a day of school, your twin is there to get everything you need.” The only negative point when it comes to academics? “She always seems to end up with the better teachers!” exclaims Kathryn. At the end of the day, though, the Beaton sisters believe that being a twin makes the high school experience a better one. “Always having someone there to encourage you makes any experience easier and more fun,” Christina says. Comparisons are one of the biggest things when it comes to being a twin, whether it’s about their appearances, personalities, interests, or otherwise. People are bound to mention the differences between the two of them, with comments such as “But he looks so different than you do!” or “She’s so outgoing and you’re so shy!” Please see Twins Page 7
Page 2: Opinions and Commentary Page 4: Entertainment
Every student in high school is faced with many challenges, some more than others, but what if you didn’t have to take that journey alone? What if you met someone along the way who changed your life. Would you take that road less travelled by with them? Junior Courtney Walker has been dating senior Dylan Saunders for over a year. “It’s [a] fun-loving [relationship],” she comments. “We joke around a lot, but we love each other and we’re always there [for one another]. We’re best friends, so we can talk about anything,” says Walker. As for Saunders, he jokingly says, “A lot of affection going on there. She’s pretty attached, but I try to keep her at bay.” The two spend their time going to movies or just hanging out like any other teenage couple, but they also go rock climbing or to amusement parks for fun. The question many high school couples have to ask themselves at some point is “What are we going to do about college?” For Saunders and Walker, this is a non-issue. “We’ve already agreed that we’re going to see how things go. It’s not like I’m going to just break up with her because I’m going to college…so we’ll just play it out,” says Saunders. Other couples have similar, creative ideas about how to stay in touch after high school. Senior Jenny Cartwright has known senior Michael Richardson since the two were on the same swim team at age 5. Dating since 7th grade (5 years this April), the two plan to stay connected by writing letters and sending care packages despite the fact that they will not be attending the same college. Saunders and Walker aren’t the only couple dating be-
Page 5: Sports Page 7: Features
tween grade levels. Mariam Kolbai, freshman, is currently dating Nick Giuliano, sophomore. While some inter-grade relationships can be rocky, Kolbai believes that hers is pretty stable. “We can tell each other anything and I’m really comfortable around him, so it’s [a] really healthy [relationship],” she says. “It scares a lot of people, but you might be dating your future husband, really,” states newlywed teacher Mrs. Benedum. She and her husband, Mr. Benedum, met in 8th grade English. “We were watching a
Photo Credit: Meghan Kolcum
Senior couple Ian Spence and Courtney Young in the hallway.
movie in class and he moved his books so that I could sit by him. We started doing all of our group projects in English class together,” remarks Mrs. Benedum. Mr. Benedum proposed their freshman year of college. “I didn’t know about it at the time, but he said, ‘I’m going to ask this girl to marry me by the end of the year.’ On New Year’s Eve, we made dinner together and sat down to watch the ball drop, and he proposed right as the clock hit zero,” recollects Mrs. Benedum. Seniors Courtney Young and Ian Spence will be celebrating their one year anniversary on Valentine’s Day. They’ve known each other since Please see Lighting Page 7
Opinion: Teen Health By: Meilan Solly
nutritious school lunches, although it is true that one study of 1,000 middle schoolers found that students who ate school lunches on an everyday basis were 29% more likely to be obese than those who packed their own lunches. This is one fact which should change soon, however, since the U.S. Department of Agriculture is working on several lunch reforms such as the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act, which provides for maximum calorie limits and larger vegetable portions. School lunches may be one of the government’s main focuses when it comes to encouraging better health in schools, but they should focus more on teaching nutrition and promoting physical education. While schools do offer many exercise options, they don’t always teach healthy living habits. Health class, which is offered in conjunction with
Photo Credit: Meghan Kolcum
Sophomore P.E. classes play floor hockey during 7th block. Boys and girls partake in friendly competitions and spend one week each quarter participating in mandatory health classes.
tions are caused by several factors: mainly overeating, lack of physical exercise, and junk food. While some instances of obesity are caused by physical problems rather than bad habits, most cases are preventable. So, whose job is it to encourage better teen health? Public schools or home? The answer is both. Schools try to do their part in fostering healthy living habits by offering extracurricular sports and physical education classes. They also offer fairly
Physical Education, does teach students a few tips, but what many schools really need is an active health program. Some public schools already have health coordinators, who the American Cancer Society explains are “trained professionals in school health who will help the school district work to improve the programs and policies that can impact the health of its students and faculty.” The role of health coordinators and health programs in schools must be expanded
Editors Megan Ford...............................Editor-in-Chief Meilan Solly...................Assistant Editor-in-Chief Jack Minchew.................Assistant Editor-in-Chief Sean Cassar................................Layout Editor Forest Langhorne..........................Sports Editor Shalom Montero.................Entertainment Editor Danny Sedlazek..................Entertainment Editor Dominic Gavan....................Advertising Manager Erica Walker.................................Art Director
By: Jack Minchew
Infographic By: Jack Minchew
It’s a well-known fact that America has seen a growing obesity trend over the last few decades, with obesity rates among adolescents and children almost tripling since 1980. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that the number of teenagers (ages 12-19) who are overweight or obese reached 18%, or in numbers 12.5 million, in 2008. Comparatively, only 5% of adolescents were considered overweight or obese in 1980. Obesity can lead to many problems, ranging from low self-esteem to high risk for cardiovascular diseases. It is important, therefore, to encourage better teen health both at home and at school. Obesity, which is defined as “having excess body fat” according to the CDC, varies from being overweight, which is concerned more with weight than fat. Both condi-
Political Analysis: Open Enrollment in Loudoun County
In a largely unheralded move in an otherwise normal meeting earlier this month, the reform-focused Loudoun County School Board adopted a radical new policy that could change the way education in Loudoun works forever. The name of this policy is open enrollment, and it draws its name from its principle of allowing students to attend any school they want. In recent years, it has been associated with failing school districts such as Washington D.C. and controversial figures such as ex D.C. Schools chancellor Michelle Rhee, but beginning next school year, open enrollment is coming to Loudoun. Current school policy allows for students to switch schools only if they apply for a special waiver directly from LCPS central administration. Common exceptions are granted in cases of parents who work at different schools or in cases
of bullying or a student having trouble at their assigned school. The new policy, which is set to be implemented as soon as next school year, would allow for students to transfer to any school in the county that is under capacity, such as Heritage, Woodgrove, and Freedom High Schools, and Simpson and Smart’s Mill Middle Schools. Students who already live in a certain school district would receive priority over students from another district when it comes to attending a certain school, so students who attended a school outside their district one year might be forced out the next by new students who have the first choice. It remains to be seen whether this policy will be opposed by local teacher or parent groups, as it was passed with relatively little debate and public opposition. Advocates
of the doctrine assert that allowing students and parents to choose which school is best for them will encourage lower achieving schools to become better while also providing students access to better schools. Opponents say that the plan unfairly targets poorer families that might not have the ability to provide personal transportation to schools outside of their assigned district. Open enrollment policies are often centerpieces of larger school reform packages, and the current school board was elected on promises of sweeping school reform, including school choice for students. So far, new board policies have only gone as far cutting some school programs and threatening budget cuts, but some see this policy as the first in a wave of contemporary education reforms set to be instituted by the new board.
in order to teach teenagers nutrition and lifestyle habits that will hopefully keep them from growing obese and unhealthy as adults. Besides encouraging teen health at school, parents must foster healthy habits at home. Home is, usually, the place where students spend the most time aside from school, and it is here that they can really indulge in unhealthy habits like eating junk food and
sitting around on the couch. Improving lifestyle habits is not just the task of parents or schools, of course. Teenagers themselves have to choose to change their habits or else they will never learn. Parents and teens must work together to implement changes like buying healthier food, exercising on a daily basis, and limiting television and computer time. In the end, improving teen
health comes down to teens. They are the ones these choices will affect, either negatively or, hopefully, positively. Changing the way one goes about daily life can be a daunting task, but by slowly making simple changes like going for a run or eating a salad instead of macaroni and cheese, it is easy to become healthy, fit, and an overall improved person.
Staff Writers Megan Cohen Abdullah Elqadri Katie Forcade Claire Frank Daniel Friend Tyler Garling Meghan Kolcum Danielle Matta Breanna Shiflett
The Husky Headline is written, edited, and designed by students from Tuscarora High School. All opinions expressed in this publication are those of the individual writer. The views published in this newspaper are not necessarily those of the Tuscarora High School administration, faculty, staff, or the student body. We are committed to delivering relevant, accurate news - which means we want to hear from you! Opinions may be expressed in letters to the editor and can be sent to the staff at TheHuskyHeadline@gmail.com. Please include your name and class standing in all letters to the editor.
The Year in Review: Music, Movies, Television, and Games By: Danny Sedlazek, Daniel Friend, Breanna Shiflett, and Abdullah Elqadri
Music
Movies
Television
Games
Album of the Year: good kid, mA.A.d. city- Kendrick Lamar I’ve already written a column about why the success of Kendrick Lamar’s good kid, mA.A.d. city is nothing but a monumental triumph for hip hop, and music as a whole, so I’ll try to avoid rehashing too much. To make a long story short, Kendrick Lamar, a young rapper from the hard streets of Compton, became one of rap’s biggest stars by preaching positivity and social consciousness, spitting some of the most interesting and left-field flows since Kool Keith and Andre 3000, all while maintaining his artistic integrity. Kendrick Lamar created a whole album of exactly what rap needs, and at some level, has always needed: the lyrical banger, songs that you can bump in your car, at the club, and in front of your girlfriend that don’t just phone in the poetry part of RAP (Rhythm And Poetry) music. Songs like “Swimming Pools,” “Money Trees,” and “Backseat Freestyle” are all fun songs full of quotables that anyone can enjoy. Kendrick delivers not only on a surface level with a barrage of witty wordplay and tongue-twisting deliveries, but also manages to create a 13 track album that tells one cohesive tale that is heavily inspired by his childhood– from his young loves to the death of his best friend. It’s very much rooted in the '90s tradition of unflinching street poetry. However, the most amazing aspect of this record is that, at its core, it is all about peer pressure, not just the aptly titled “The Art of Peer Pressure.” It’s an album about how peer pressure can not only elevate you, but also cause your life to be ripped apart at the seams. Anyone, regardless of socio-economic class, who has been a teenager can relate to that, and Kendrick tackles the topic beautifully. Why would you not want to hear a lyrical, fun, emotional, deep, relatable, and, dare I say it, classic album? I can’t imagine a single reason why.
Silver Linings Playbook This the story of two forlorn individuals who, after a series of traumatic events, face not only the world around them, but the separate world their minds perpetually conjure. Both Pat (Bradley Cooper) and Tiffany (Jennifer Lawrence) are diagnosed with bipolar disorder, and constantly suffer from rapid mood swings that are– to a degree– out of their control. Imagine When Harry met Sally meets Anger Management. Both Cooper and Lawrence give performances that are certainly deserving of the highest of praises, and hopefully a win at this year’s Oscars. The writing is outstanding, and its direction made this story about true human experience not only a fantastic film, but makes you connect to the characters as if you had known them all your life. We’re seeing Cooper stray from his usual raunchy comedy roles and enter a new world of subtle and rich dramas. Lawrence, on the other hand, has always been subjected to more gritty and emotional roles, and that becomes very clear from the moment she appears. It’s an indie film with big actors; it’s a deep look into the struggle of characters that still maintains a warm heart; it’s about the bad, the good, and the silver lining in-between.
2012 had many exciting shows, but there is one that stands above the rest. Elementary revamps the classic Sherlock Holmes characters that we know and love, and brings them to a whole new setting. The idea of bringing Sherlock Holmes into the 21st century is obviously not a new one (especially given the success of House and Sherlock), but the fact that Elementary manages to stand out from the pack is a testament unto itself. Of course, its significant changes to the storyline and characters–like bringing Sherlock to New York and making his best friend/sidekick a woman, Joan Watson–makes it different from other modern Holmes stories. Elementary is legitimately intelligent and complex, not just in the weekly cases that Sherlock and Joan solve, but also in its characterzation. Holmes and Watson’s relationship is more different than it has ever been, not just because of the gender swap, but because of the reemergence of Holmes’ addiction, an oft forgotten aspect of Arthur Conan Doyle’s tales. Jonny Lee Miller and Lucy Liu put on incredible performnces, and make the viewers truly feel for them. With amazing acting, brilliant writing, and beautiful cinematography, there’s a reason why Elementary is the best new drama.
1: Assassin’s Creed 3 My favorite game of the year, and the latest installment in the Assassin’s Creed series, is set during the American Revolution. At first I imagined some of the changes would ruin the stealth game play, but they actually added to the quality. Along with the amazing game play, there is a strong story line that was as well written as the other games of the series. Its ending was surprising, and raises even more questions for the series to answer. It’s an excellent story to match its excellent game play. 2. Max Payne 3 Max Payne is an amazing game. The graphics are astounding, the action incredible. This is one of my all-time favorite games. The storyline is also really well done; it’s moving and very attentiongrabbing. Overall, I like this game because it’s action packed; you won’t be able to let go of it.
cathedrals, disorderly bookstores, and isolated cinemas where the aspiring film critic spends much of her time. You may even admit to falling in love with fictional Etienne St. Clair, a half-American, halfFrench boy with messy hair, a paralyzing fear of heights, a despicable relationship with his dad, and an English accent. Can you say ooh-la-la? In no time you’ll find yourself flying through the story in a desperate attempt to finally see Anna and St. Clair together. Besides the obvious teenage love theme, Anna and the French Kiss is also a story that flawlessly brushes against the premises of self discovery and understanding the difference between where you come from and where you belong. The book also has incredible character developments and a natural progression of the relationships made between them. Each individual character has flaws and ambitions,
quirks and personality. Unlike most young adult love stories, the main character becomes someone you can actually relate to and wish to befriend, which is the exact opposite of the typical flat, unlikable, and annoying protagonists common to this genre. The characters also don’t just wake up one morning and decide they’ll all be best friends— it’s a slow-going but beautiful process of reading about people who intertwine, learn, argue, and grow from each other, just like in real life. Reading this book is practically as good as a trip to Paris, with a lot of great laughs and—surprisingly— life lessons. Trapped between two worlds, and the pressures of divorced parents and frustrating relationships, Anna is kind of one of the best YA romance novel protagonists brought to the shelves of angsty and valentines-frustrated teens everywhere.
By: Danny Sedlazek
Music Honorable Mentions: Channel Orange Trophies People Hear What They See
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By: Daniel Friend
Lovin’ the Love By: danielle matta
It is common knowledge that most people start reading a love story with high levels of skepticism and low expectations. It is just the nature of the beast, and the many attempts with disappointing results most readers have to face after force-feeding themselves yet another overdramatic, improbable, and exasperating romance novel proves it. But this Valentine’s Day, for once, wouldn’t you like to spend the lonely evening reading about a fantastic fictional love that will take you away from your single reality instead of disgustedly chucking chocolate that you bought for yourself at the rejected mistakes of romance literature you once tortured yourself with? There are very few modern young adult love stories which can do the
By: Breanna Shiflett
impossible, and to save you the trouble of spending a lifetime of struggle and endless searching, read the following book, which is guaranteed to only make you gag and scoff a little bit. Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins There is no better romance than one that takes place in the City of Love: Paris, France. Despite the AWFUL and extremely cliché title, this novel goes beyond the average unrealistic and predictable teen romances. The reader is immediately immersed into the troubles of senior Anna Oliphant, who has been shipped away from her family, friends, and only home to the School of America in Paris. Although the move was first met with dread, Anna soon finds herself in love with not only someone who is tragically already taken, but with the magical city of tiny bakeries, lucky parks, ancient
By: Abdullah Elqadri
Check out our website, TheHuskyHeadline.com, for Honorable Mentions,
Tyler Garling’s Best Movies of 2012, and Valentine’s Day book reviews from
Danielle Matta
Spring Sports Preview By: Claire Frank
Photo Credit: Yearbook Staff
Joshua Cruz is attempting to pin his opponent in a match against Falls Church on December 15th, 2012. The match, which took place at Loudoun County High School, resulted in a win for Tuscarora. The final score of the match was 45-30.
Blood, Sweat, and Singlets By: Tyler Garling
Teamwork is a vital part of any sport, no matter what it is. Whether it be football, soccer, basketball, or even baseball, a team needs all of its members to go above and beyond if it wants to be successful. There’s no “I” in team…unless it is wrestling. Although wrestling is a team, it doesn’t function like one. Each member of the wrestling team has to wrestle their own matches single-handedly. This makes wrestling one of the most intense sports at Tuscarora. Though wrestling is extremely difficult, many students have risen to the challenge. Senior Onslo Parker became interested in wrestling when Coach Bango told the football team about the sport. “It looked really interesting at the time and I decided to give it a try,” said Parker. Needless to say, Parker was hooked and has been wrestling since 2010. Being part of the wrestling team comes with its challenges, and Parker has had plenty to face this season. During meets on Saturdays, wrestlers may have to participate in up to five matches. Parker, like many other wrestlers, needs to keep his energy levels high throughout the day so he can emerge victorious from a match. Matches aren’t only physically straining, but also mentally. Getting into your opponent’s head and psyching him out is a pivotal part of each match. Before a match, all the wrestlers warm up and prepare for their upcoming event.
“I warm up with one of my friends and then I sit down and mentally visualize what I’m going to do in the match,” explained Parker. “Then, right before it’s time for me to go up, I take off my warm-ups, stretch, and get the blood flowing.” Another senior, Fayez Atari, was also convinced when Coach Bango enlightened the football team about wrestling. Atari was interested
“I hope this season I can make it to states,” said McCord. McCord’s success doesn’t just come from his physical strength, but also his mindset before a match. “I don’t freak out; [I] just get pumped up for the match,” explained McCord. Every wrestler must make sure their nerves are calm and, before their match, they don’t get nervous. If nerves get the best of them, they’ll end the match face down on the mat. Two wrestlers, Will Siryani and Matt Mettenheimer, serve as two of the team’s three captains, along with Sam Brazer. As captains, the three have a lot to keep track of, and they are definitely up for the task. Photo Credit: Lifetouch “I make sure people are and thought it would be a fun doing what they need to do, experience. The 2012-2013 make sure they’re warming season is Atari’s first on the up right, make sure they’re wrestling team, and he has a ready for their matches, and firsthand account of the chal- help them out if they have any lenges the team brings. questions about a move or “A big challenge for me will anything,” said Mettenheimer. be getting through the season “As a captain, I lead the because it’s pretty tough. You team: make them get mentalhave to be conditioned well ly and physically fit and keep for practices and matches,” them in shape,” added Siryani. said Atari. Indeed, wrestling is one of During this season, Atari the most physically straining hopes to gain some good ex- sports Tuscarora has to offer, periences, fun times, and but that doesn’t turn off the knowledge of wrestling. many students who particiOne student many people pate in wrestling. Wrestling is might associate with the wres- one of the only sports where tling team is sophomore Alex you’re the only one who can McCord. McCord has been make yourself successful. With wrestling in high school for the caliber of wrestlers on this two years. He has 62 take- year’s team, it is expected that downs this season and has Tuscarora will have quite a few even won MVP at the Loud- very successful wrestlers at oun County Duals. the end of the season.
Tuscarora’s winter sports may be coming to a close, but do not fear sports fans; the spring season is rapidly approaching to take its place. Soon there will be a new set of sports teams to support, and Tusky Terror will be there with vuvuzelas and cries of “óle!” Fans will abandon the heated gymnasiums used during the winter and return to the outdoor stadiums used during the fall and spring, where the weather will range from hot and sunny to cold and rainy, possibly with some thunderstorms thrown in as well. The spring season offers a variety of options for sports fans to support. There are a total of 6 sports during the spring, consisting of baseball, softball, lacrosse, soccer, tennis, and track. The total number of teams adds up to either 15 or 16, depending on whether you count the girls' and boys'
Who will be wearing blue and white for Tuscarora this year? track teams as separate teams or a single, co-ed team. Nevertheless, this means there will be plenty of games/meets for students to attend. Hopeful athletes have been busy preparing for the new season, quickly getting in shape for the approaching tryouts that will decide who will be wearing blue and white for Tuscarora this year. Last year Tuscarora saw its first graduating senior class, which means many of the previous seasons’ athletes will not be returning for the 2013 season. It’ll be interesting to see who will rise up to fill their shoes: will it be the familiar faces of underclassmen returners or the unknown recently-arrived freshmen? The previous season for Tuscarora’s spring sports teams resulted in a wide range of results. Each team dealt with fierce competition from other schools, and while some emerged victorious, others dealt with defeat. Some teams finished the season with great records, others with not-sogreat records, and there were a few in between. Boys' varsity soccer’s record was 23 wins, 3 losses, and 2 ties, and the team received 2nd place in the Virginia High School League State Finals. Girls' tennis and boys' tennis also had great seasons, with records of
12 wins, 4 losses, and 10 wins, 6 losses, respectively. The track team won the Dulles District competition, and several athletes advanced to the State competition as well. Girls' varsity lacrosse finished the season with an 8 wins, 8 losses record, while varsity softball finished with 11 wins, 10 losses. Varsity baseball finished with the record of 7 wins, 13 losses, and girls' varsity soccer and boys' varsity lacrosse had the toughest seasons with records of 3 wins, 11 losses, 3 ties, and 3 wins, 10 losses, respectively. Several athletes were placed on the District teams, and several athletes were named Cheers Athletes of the Month, including Angel Ceron Garcia (soccer), Nathan Huet (tennis), Patrick Nolan (tennis), Kerryn Beamish (tennis), Sabrina Kim (tennis), and Amirah Al-Bayyinah (track). Also, Coach Dave Gryder was named Coach of the Year. This upcoming spring season will place new challenges on Tuscarora’s athletic teams as they continue their journeys towards success, including facing new rivals John Champe and George Mason. New rules and regulations, such as the new Virginia High School League pitching limits for baseball, will change the games as well. There will also be some changes in management for several teams, including girls' soccer: varsity coach Ashley Comber will not be returning to lead the players into a new season, and no one has yet been named to take
The spring season will place new challenges on Tuscarora’s athletic teams. her place. For track, history teacher Nathan Gough will begin his coaching career at Tuscarora High School as head boys' coach while last season’s boys' coach, Kelly Smyth, will be taking the place of Katie Boring as head girls' coach. Several coaching positions, including those for both tennis teams, are still unfilled as of January 27, 2013. Tryouts for the various sports teams will begin February 19, 2013. Scrimmages for the teams start Friday, March 1, 2013 and the first games of the season will be two weeks later on Monday, March 10, 2013.
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Twins from Page 1
If you are a twin, you are constantly being compared to your counterpart, and a topic that often gets brought up for evaluation is that of grades. For sophomore Rebecca McHale, twin sister of Michael, this is one of the worst parts about being a twin. “Siblings can be nosy and even competitive when they’re in the same grade,” she says. “Parents are much more likely to compare grades with twins than with siblings who are in different grades.” In the end, no matter if the twins are complete opposites or best friends, there is always something that prevails in the relationship between the two. Unlike with siblings who are a few years apart, twins share a unique bond that can’t exactly be compared to that of a normal sibling relationship.
According to my twin sister, Courtney Shiflett, this is one of the most important parts about being a twin. “You literally spent every day of your life with them,” she says. “You never have to do anything alone because there is always someone there with you.” Although Tuscarora’s twins go through the same four years that every student does, their experience may be slightly different than that of the average high schooler. Having a sibling in the same grade provides an educator, a lifelong friend, sometimes even a rival, and that definitely makes the experience a more inviting and meaningful one. Depending on the set, being a twin may not always be like looking in a mirror, but twins do have one thing in common—like a reflection, they will always be there.
Richie Todd, both juniors, remiddle school, but they both member their first date as if it believe they truly met work- were yesterday. “We went to ing at Chick-fil-A. Although the movies and it was actually Young’s favorite date was on kind of funny because there their four month anniversary, was only one seat so I had to she’s planning a surprise for sit on the floor, and I gave her Spence to celebrate their year the seat,” reminisced Todd. together. “We went to the In order for couples to redrive-in movie “We can tell each main strong theatre [for our keep the other anything, and and four-month anniflame of roversary]…we ate I’m really comfortable mance burning, at Sonic and saw each couple around him.” all these movwill, at some -Mariam Kolbai ies. It was really point, have to cool,” Young commented. But jump over some hurdles. Each for their one year, “I’m going person in the relationship will to take her to breakfast before face their own trials throughschool,” states Spence, while out life; the key to a healthy Young mentions that for din- relationship is learning how to ner, “I’m going to put up lights face those obstacles together. everywhere and just make it “Communication is a really really cute.” big deal. If you stop talking to First dates can be scary, but each other, if you start keepsome may find that their fa- ing secrets, it’s not going to vorite memories were of their work out,” advises Mrs. first date. Anna Bredice and Benedum.
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Lighting from Page 1
Keep Calm and Keep Trying By: Megan Cohen
Let’s admit it: we all make mistakes. We’ll do a lab incorrectly, forget a homework assignment, or study the wrong material for a test. But that doesn’t mean it’s all over. With the beginning of a new semester, it’s the perfect time to assess how we’ve been working in the last couple of months, and to think about what we can improve on. Everyone deserves an opportunity to reach their goals. Depending on your grades, you may feel discouraged, a situation that serves as both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, you’re obviously down and feeling disappointed in yourself, knowing you could have done better. But there’s a light at the end of the tunnel because now you have a clean slate. You no longer have that bad test score keeping you from getting the grade you wanted. Now you have a second chance to get it. Some students set simple goals, like Alicia Kitchens, a sophomore. “I just want to get better grades,” she says. Goals like these can make things a bit less stressful, since you’re not focusing on an exact percentage grade, but instead one that is simply higher than the last one. After all, why get upset about a 94 when you were aiming for a 95? Sometimes keeping it simple is best. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with a more specific goal, such as freshman Rebecca Kayembe’s. “I want to get all A’s for one quarter,” she shares. Once in a while, we may slack off. We may not try as hard to get a higher grade, because we think our grade may be good enough. When
you have one exact number to work towards, you’re not thinking, “My grade’s pretty decent, so I won’t do extra credit,” you’re saying, “I’ll do extra credit because I don’t have a 90.” A goal like this might keep you more on top of things, and even help you work harder in the rest of your classes. In some cases, you may prefer to not have any goals at all. You may not believe in them, or you are already confident that you’ll earn a good grade. “I don’t really have a specific goal,” says senior Brian Horne. Not having a goal can make for a smoother semester; it’s not playing like a broken record in your head, making you more stressed out than you already are. As long as you know you’ll work hard and won’t slack off, a goal is not always necessary. It can be difficult to admit your faults, but at a time like this in the school year, it’s crucial. Take some time to look over your grades for the past two quarters on Clarity. Have you been forgetting homework? Your quiz grades are a little low; do you maybe not study enough? Do you not pay enough attention in class?
Graphic Credit: Sean Cassar
Make a list of the things you can work on, as well as the things you’ve been doing great with so far that you need to keep up. Some students make the mistake of thinking, “I did terrible first semester, so doing well the next one won’t make much of a difference.” Before they know it, it’s the end of the year and their grades aren’t looking so great. Your first semester does not determine how you’ll do until June. It’s important, sure, but that doesn’t mean it’s a good idea to blow off the next two quarters. Don’t ignore your mistakes; strive to correct them. Midterms and finals aren’t fun, but they can be the things that help you get the grades you want, or the very things that hold you back from doing so. Don’t fool yourself into thinking you don’t have to study; you never know what questions are going to pop up. Avoid cramming, or else you’ll just rush through “studying” and hardly read the material. Study groups are a great method for preparing, assuming, of course, you can work well with friends. When test days arrive, don’t stress too much or else you’ll find yourself blanking. Whether you did great the first semester or really slacked off, you now have a second chance. You’re probably going to have to work a little harder now, but that’s what school’s all about. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself, though; you don’t want to crack. Turn in all your assignments, study for exams, and stay focused. You’ll be fine.
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Is There Such a Thing as Too Much Work? By: Katie Forcade
“If I don’t get a good grade, is a chronic disease where an I [am] very, very upset,” says individual’s blood can contain sophomore Elizabeth Getis. high levels of sugar. Stress can Have you ever said the same cause diabetes, and common thing before? symptoms of it include blurred On Monday, January 14th, vision, excessive thirst, fatigue, Tuscarora started its midterm hunger, and even weight loss. exam week. Students were ei- There are two types of diabether prepared or unprepared tes: Type 1 Diabetes, which for this week. Teachers gave can occur at any age and has out last minute huge home- no prevention, and Type 2 work, project, and possibly Diabetes, which often occurs test grades to wrap up the se- in childhood and also can ocmester. cur due to obesity. Diabetes With all this homework, proj- affects more than 20 million ects, and studying, students Americans, and many people were bound with Type 2 Be sure to check out to stress out, Diabetes often TheHuskyHeadline.com especially if don’t know @tuskysports they wanted they have it. @huskyheadline high grades To manage Look up for college apstress and reThe Husky Headline plications. duce your risk “Grades... of getting a determine your college, and combination of any or all of college determines your life the effects stress gives you, after,” says Getis. What stu- you first have to take charge dents don’t realize is that with of your thoughts, emotions, stress comes a lot of side ef- schedule, and the way you fects which in turn might even deal with problems. stress them out more. First of all, make sure you Depression can be caused start homework and projects by stressing out over home- the night they are assigned. work and midterms. Depres- This helps relieve the stress sion is more than just sadness; you feel about the deadline, it can cause a person to have whereas procrastinating on it intense feelings and lose inter- leads to more severe stress. est in something they usually Also, keep a stress journal. enjoy or do a lot of. It isn’t as bad as it sounds. Stress is also a cause of Writing down what stresses high blood pressure and heart you out, how you feel, how problems. It can often over- you choose to act, and how work a person’s heart to the the problem is solved actually point where high blood sugar relieves stress. and heart problems (like heart Next time you start to stress attacks) can possibly occur. out, remember the “side efGeneral Anxiety Disorder fects” that could happen as a (GAD) is a common disorder result of stress. where a person can over-worry about someone or something. Stress is a key cause of GAD, and is the main reason people are diagnosed with anxiety in the first place. Anxiety can also lead to depression, and it should be treated immediately. Also, stress plays a key factor in causing skin conditions such as acne, eczema, hives, rosacea (puffy redness), psoriasis (thick white, silver, or red patches of skin that form due to skin cells growing too quick), alopecia (hair loss), vitiligo (depigmented white spots on skin), trichotillomania (hair pulling), and selfmutilation disorders. Doctors are learning to call all of this “psychodermatology,” which is the field that addresses and studies the impact of emotions and how they relate to skin. Diabetes
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Top 10 Tips for Choosing the Perfect College By: Meilan Solly
1. Learn about yourself. The first step in deciding where you want to attend college is figuring out what you want from a higher education. Do you already know what you want to major in? Do you want to study in the city or in a small college town? Make a list of “must haves,” and use this list to narrow down your options. 2. Talk to family and friends. Ask your parents and other relatives about their alma maters. By listening to others’ stories, you can determine whether you want a similar experience. Also, ask people which colleges they think would work for you and why. 3. Have an in-depth discussion with your parents. Your parents are two of the people who know you best. They can offer plenty of tips and advice. It’s important to involve parents in your college search because they will be your main support in terms of figuring out how to pay for college and more. 4. Research, research, and more research. The only way to learn about potential colleges is to research them. Buy college books like Profiles of American Colleges, investigate colleges’ official websites, and contact college admission officers for more information. 5. Use collegeboard.org. You may know College Board as the program that controls AP and SAT testing, but did you know it also offers one of the best college resources around? Big Future, which
you can access by going to bigfuture.collegeboard.org, is full of helpful tools such as My Plan, which is a customizable plan that will help you know when and why to take the next step in the admissions process, and College Search, a search engine that lets you find colleges using filters such as size, location, extracurricular activities, majors, and more. Aside from these, the College Board website offers information on scholarships, financial aid, writing admissions essays, and so much more. 6. Talk to guidance counselors and teachers. Guidance counselors and the Career Center are there for a reason: to help you figure out what to do with your future. Make an appointment with your counselor, and have questions ready. Be sure to ask what colleges he/she suggests for you based on your past academic achievements and career hopes. Also ask your teachers, especially ones who know you well. They can give you lots of helpful suggestions because they know your learning style and goals. 7. Visit several different colleges. Once you have narrowed down your search, make plans to visit possible colleges. You can only see if the college’s atmosphere works for you if you actually go there. Try to visit when classes are in session in order to get a better feel for what daily life is like. While at college visits, make sure to talk to students, admission of-
ficers, financial aid directors, and anyone who can help. 8. Find scholarship opportunities. Going to college is expensive, and unless you still want to be in debt ten years after graduating, it’s important to research scholarships. If you already have an idea of what you want to study, look for scholarships that are specific to your field. Use the Internet (scholarships.com is a great resource), books like The Scholarship Book, and school resources including teachers and the guidance department. Also, make sure to fill out the FAFSA, which will help you find need-based aid, and research if your potential universities offer special scholarships. 9. Stay organized. Keep a folder, binder, etc. that is dedicated to college research. Suggestions of what to keep in this include a list of potential colleges, a list of what you want from colleges, and a calendar with important dates such as application deadlines. 10. Don’t limit yourself. If you already have a dream college in mind, that’s great. Just remember that there is no guarantee you will get into that school. Make sure to have many options, including some reach schools and some fall-back ones. If you’re still at the point where you have absolutely no idea where to apply, don’t limit your search to colleges in your area or only colleges that offer a specific major. Consider options like studying abroad or going to an all-female or all-male school.