January 25

tjTODAY

THOMAS JEFFERSON HIGH SCHOOL FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY 6560 Braddock Rd., Alexandria, VA 22312

JANUARY 25, 2013

Witnessing History

Sports traditions P5

VOLUME 28, ISSUE 5

Six students named Intel

by Jenny Chen News Editor The Intel Science Talent Search (Intel STS) -

-

-

Clockwise from top: The crowd responds to the coats and hats to stay warm.

by Tahmina Achekzai News Editor -

“

-

When I got to the security checkpoint at 6:30 a.m., there was already a

-

-sophomore Heather Lukas

”

-

Arya Dahal and Mallika Patkar contributed to the reporting for this article.

P6-7

Students identify with their pets

P8

tjDrama students branch out

P10

Study methods take varied forms

continued on p. 2

P13

Students struggle with back pain

2

news

Kudos & Accomplishments TJ Quiz Bowl earns VHSL Liberty District and AAA Northern Region title On Jan. 19, TJ Quiz Bowl swept the Liberty District and AAA Northern Region meets to secure a place at States on Feb. 23. The team consisted of seniors Raynor Kuang and Sarah Eltinge and juniors Nadege Aoki and Sid Verma.

Also competing at the Metro Richmond Invitational at New Kent High School on Jan. 12, A team captain Kuang and senior Luke Waddell tied for third place.

The B team of Aoki, Verma and juniors Kunal Debroy and Hari Sridhar placed sixth. TJ Quiz Bowl will compete on Feb. 2 on “It’s Academic” against area teams from Gaithersburg and National Cathedral high schools.

january 25, 2013

Intel STS competition Principal talks challenges applicants about state of continued from p. 1 the National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering at the National Institutes of Health. She worked with her mentor to research the feasibility of using atomic force spectroscopy to investigate Rhodopsin organization in native and model membranes.

I felt like entering Intel was a lot to handle,” she said. “Since the deadline was in mid-Nolege applications not too long ago, I didn’t have long to take care of all the recommenall the questions.”

Threshold ranks Superior in NCTE evaluation

the Intel STS because it was on too short of a notice. The research report, however, was

old garnered a Superior ranking in the annual evaluation done by the National Council of Teachers of English.

went through with her decision to submit.

Senior Dhruv Bansal had planned to enter the Intel STS but ultimately did not. His mentor had agreed to let him submit his project on the impact of carbon nanotubes on the lung immune system to the Siemens competition, but was unable

Future Problem Solving teams have promising start For the second practice problem teams ranked among other top Virginia teams. This practice problem was in preparation for the qualifying problem, which dictates which teams advance to the state competition in March. In the senior division, seniors Lauren Huang, Katherine Lee, Andrew seniors Michelle Chang, Ian Lin, Arisa Smith and Christine Xu earned bronze.

In the middle division, the team of freshmen Ghnana Madineni, Thuy-Vi Nguyen, Kavya Ravikanti and Virginia Sun earned bronze as did the team of freshmen Joyce Duan, Christopher Hoang, Minjoo Kang and Olivia Zhang.

All-District band members selected son students were selected to perform in the District XI All-District Band from Jan. 31 to Feb. 2 at W.T. Woodson High School. Students include seniors Ryan Feng, Anu Goel, David Heo, Andrew Jiang, Seung Yeon Ju, Alexia Kim, Isabella Liu, Keshav Mantha, Will Stalcup and Daniel Wang, juniors Kaylyn Buford, Caitlyn Carpio, Grace Chuang, Josh Chung, Brian Clark, Elise Favia, Bryan Higgins, Jung Huh, Rachel Iwicki, Kyu Kim, Maria Kim, Jonathan sophomores Marie Anderson, Orchi Banerjee, Sam Cho, Maya Chung, Noemi Glaeser, Arthur He, Kiley man, Theo Richardson, Bobbie Sheng and Kai Smith and freshmen Aaron Geldert, Catherine Im, Jasper Treakle and Sara Warrington.

matching paperwork for Intel.

“It was a disappointment in the sense in that I had the report already

cations than expected due to damage from Hurricane Sandy. tive school so that accounts for much of the success,” Stuyvesant research coordinator Jonathan Gastel said. “We have a research program which starts in ninth grade which we are still growing and developing. That helps as well.”

Another perennial producer of success is the North Carolina School for Science and Mathematics (NCSSM) in Durham, N.C. NCSSM is a public boarding school for about 660 juniors and seniors. Of the seniors, Most Intel STS entrants from NCSSM take a research course in biology, chemistry, computational science or physics that begins as early as the winter of their junior year and allows students to create their own research projects for competitions.

“There are exceptions. We had one student who was not in a research class, and he because he. had done a summer program,” NCSSM Dean of Science Amy Sheck said. “So I would say there are multiple pathways to success in Intel, and they’re all hard.”

The Science, Mathematics and Computer Science Mag-

“

as most of the essays required for Intel,” Bansal said. “But on the bright side, the process of reviewing the paper for Intel made it publishable in a journal, so I got that out of it.”

Brenner spent his summer studying planetary science at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center. While he was discouraged ence with the research portion of his project was just the opposite, and the overall prod-

well before the deadline, so I decided that I would add substantially more work to my project,” Brenner said. “What allowed me to go so quickly through my research was that I loved what I was doing. It drew on a lot of my knowledge of geology, astronomy, physics and chemistry.”

Stuyvesant High School in New York City maintains a strong presence in the list

”

at Montgomery Blair High School in Silver Spring, Md. had

students, 90 percent of whom complete research projects.

“By incorporating research techniques into our coursework beginning in the ninth grade, students are accustomed to the research process before they take on larger scale projects,” magnet program coordinator Like at NCSSM, Blair magnet program students typically begin research projects in their junior year.

“If our students did their projects during their junior year, we would anticipate a sigIntel STS competition,” Glazer said. “Most of our mentorship project results aren’t coming in until now, so it’s really a timeline issue.”

Finalists will travel to Washington, D.C. from March 7 to 13 to have their projects judged. The top 10 award winners will be announced on March 12.

photo by Tahmina Achekzai

Principal Evan Glazer speaks with seniors Mal-

compiled by Tahmina Achekzai, Jenny Chen and Mallika Patkar News Editors and Editor-in-Chief Q: With the new budget plan and overincreased pressure to expand the size of our student body?

A: The school board has capped our enrollment. I can’t say they’ll never increase the cap, but I pressed the issue when we were planning for our renovation. I don’t want to see another trailer when this thing is over. I was very explicit: if you intend on increasing the enrollment, then we have to build a school to accommodate that. We’re going to keep it steady. superintendent search?

A: There’s no opportunity to vote. Usually they’ll do some polling and then there are a lot of private meetings with the school board to it’s a very public process. They may even have town hall meetings.

Q: Are we taking any additional measures to ensure the safety of students throughout the renovation procedures? crossover between students and contractors. Once the construction starts, parts of the never see a contractor.

All contractors who might have contact with students need to have a common badge.

We’ve set in motion a campaign through multiple venues to remind students that they shouldn’t be opening doors to strangers.

Q: Would you ever consider placing buzzers at doors, as in middle schools? to manage. If you look carefully at the renovation plans, instead of one door, there’s a double door. When you go through the school atrium, the only doors that will be open will be We make sure that during very active times of the day, we position ourselves to be very visible near the front of the school.

Q: How do you feel about administrators having access to weapons or storing them in A: It requires a trained marksman to be men. Even if someone had a weapon and you asked them to aim, there’s a high likelihood they would miss, so no, absolutely not.

Q: Are cameras becoming more likely with the renovation?

A: They are likely in highly visible areas that would be accessible to the public. Our whole community will know that there’s a camera there. They would be in certain places where we have a high amount of people coming from the outside, but people wouldn’t see those until about 2016.

Q: How have we been progressing in the math department?

A: The proportion of students who are

Mayuga honored as Girl of Merit Junior Christine Mayuga was named one of the 2013 Washington, D.C. Girls of Merit by Girls World Expo. The D.C. Girls World Expo event was hosted by the Washington Examiner on Jan. 5 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. Mayuga was recognized for her work with the Special Olympics and Best Buddies, among other leadership and service activities.

Broom participates in National YoungArts Foundation program 10,000 applicants, sophomore euYoungArts Week in Miami from Jan. 6 to 12 and played under the guidance of master teachers.

tjTODAY Online To see more news, visit our website at tjhsst.edu/studentlife/ publications/tjTODAY

the school

photos courtesy of Techniques

Clockwise from top-left: seniors Alec Brenner, Suhas Gondi, Katherine Ho, Katherine Wu,

hired an intervention specialist whose purpose is to help monitor students so they get the support they need. The broader question is: Is this just an aberration, or are we noticing a general trend?

There is one troubling aspect. There’s a larger percentage of students going into AB Calculus. There’s a street perception that BC Calculus is a daunting course. That is a concern of mine. I want students selecting the most challenging math courses available to them.

news

january 25, 2013

NEWSMAKERS Cao garners scholarships

Techniques documents clubs

3

Science Olympiad sets record

photo courtesy of Kevin Cao

photo by Jenny Chen

photo courtesy of Emma Puranen

The News Senior Kevin Cao was surprised during

The News Senior Soojin Jeong takes a picture of the Public Forum debate team. Yearbook club photos took place starting on Jan. 9 and lasted throughout the month.

The News Freshman Ava Lakmazaheri, senior Austin Ralls, senior captain Katie Hsia, junior Owen Gray, junior Avand Lakmazaheri, freshman Andy Zhao and sophomore Janice Ong were part of the team that

Backstory Since his junior year, Cao has won over $20,000 in scholarship money. Now that college

Backstory

Backstory The Science Olympiad team placed third

search for scholarships. Cao is ahead of the game.

Cao has been proactive about the process by using the College-Career Center (CCC)’s database of scholarships.

“I come from a very humble background. My mom

clubs. Senior Rachel Dyment, the managing editor, organized the club photo process.

Cao’s most recent win came with the FCPS In Hope Freedom Rings Scholarship. Cao was one of the two

meet during eighth period and sometimes don’t have set rosters.

“Our absolute number one goal is to get the most kids possible in the book each year,” team leader junior Madison Phillips said. “With so many clubs at TJ, we can record that individual people were in an organization, and tons more kids will be reading their book in one or

granted a formal awards ceremony.

“Kevin researches scholarships thoroughly and puts deadline.” CCC Specialist Laurie Kobick said.

Cao owes much of his success to his experience with the organization he co-founded in his freshman year, Growth

yearbook’s theme, “There’s No Such Thing as a Comfort Zone,” because these photos are a new installment and

club.”

The inclusion of club photos also helps in competitions because judges look for a successful clubs and organizations section.

Techniques mainly through Facebook posts with sales “November was a huge sales month. We pushed for sales every single day by posting a small tidbit of

and philanthropy, and I try to let that shine in my applications,” Cao said.

- Tahmina Achekzai

SAT Prep Exclusively for High-Achievers

editor-in-chief Priyal Gandhi said, “I think as the quality easier.”

- Jenny Chen

“We got third place, the highest TJ has earned to date at this highly competitive competition. As a team, we made a their weight and through our consistency, we beat out many nationally ranked teams,” Hsia said.

Up until then, the highest the team has placed in this

practice round.” ranging from Astronomy and Geology to Forensics and of partners who work together in two to four events. biology teacher Aubrie Holman.

“The strategy is in teaming the people together and knowing their strengths and weaknesses,” Holman said, “They practice with their partners and on their own, engineering devices and make study sheets.”

The major regional competition for Science Olympiad will take place on March 2 at Kilmore Middle School.

“I feel optimistic because we did really well considering the high level of competition. Hopefully, we can apply this - Shayna Hume

4

opinion

january 25 , 2013

tjTODAY Volume 28 Issue 5

Constituents should trump party Lead Editorial

-

tj TODAY’s unsigned majority opinion

2012 Pacemaker - NSPA 2012 Trophy Class - VHSL 2012 All-American - NSPA 2012 Gold Medalist - CSPA

-

-

-

Editorial Board Editor in Chief

-

Mallika Patkar

Managing Editor Thrisha Potluri

News Editors Tahmina Achekzai Jenny Chen

-

-

-

-

Opinion Editors

ents.

-

hope they will vote wisely in the coming months.

Tara Gupta

Michael Chao Arya Dahal

Sports Editors

-

Sandy Cho Yena Seo

-

Spread Editor

-

Sunny Kim

Entertainment Editors Jennifer Walter Lindsay Williams

Features Editors Amy Ahn Shayna Hume Alexis Williams

cial Responsibility Act, which expanded

Staff Reporters Tara Gupta Ellen Kan

-

Online Editor Thrisha Potluri

Adviser -

Jennifer Seavey, MJE

Printer Silver Communications TjTODAY

It serves as a vehicle for student expression and is an open forum of issues of interest and concern to the

In the c o m i n g weeks, college admissions of-

-

be

-

making

decisions. $20 to tjTODAY

ARYA DAHAL

demands the exercise of accuracy,

cess will be how to ad-

tion.

-

-

content of tjTODAY is determined -

tjTODAY -

TjTODAY

admission into elite colleges.

changing, colleges may also need to -

6560 Braddock Road Alexandria, VA 22312 Phone: (703)-750-8375 Fax: (703)-750-5010

-

-

single applicant. Race-based selection -

sports

january 25, 2013

5

Sporting Spirit Winter athletes don their idiosyncratic gear to show team pride photo illustration by Sandy Cho and Yena Seo

Left to right: Junior Rachel Laveson, senior Mig Gebril, sophomore Andrew Seliskar, freshman Thuy-Vi Nguyen and senior Giovani Basurto dress up to show spirit on game days.

by Sandy Cho and Yena Seo Sports Editors Sophomores Andrew Seliskar and Luke Thorsell walk into Room 147 and head over to two tables piled high with an assortment of bagels and cream cheese containers. As they munch on the bagels and chat with their teammates, they receive curious glances from people who pass by, eyeing their bandaged wounds, broken limbs and black eyes.

courage underclassmen and upperclassmen to get to know

having outrageous spirit days, including “Pink and Sparkly

Although some sports do not participate in spirit days or

gels every meet day and participate in secret pals, for which members are assigned a teammate at the beginning of the season to give gifts to. After meets, the team members enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

Seliskar said. “Our captains have done a really fantastic job they have meets or games.

“One of my favorite spirit days that the Winter Track

been planning a Sadie Hawkins activity to bring everyone on the team together.

“Our team is divided into guys and girls and short and long distance, so we wanted to do some bonding that mixes

have a team sleepover at the end of the season and hang out after almost every meet since we only compete Friday let people on the team get to know upper and underclasswinter break at school for athletes to spend more time with

spirit in their own way. wear formal shoes, shirt and a tie on the days they have a game or scrimmage.

“Lock-in is a really great opportunity to get to know the ticipating in winter crew training also have their own workout traditions.

si said. “You could say that it helps contribute to team unity, and it also means that everyone in the school can tell who is

a few days before winter break, and each class gets to choose -

The wrestling team does not have designated spirit days, although some members wear their spirit clothes on match days and indulge in snacking with friends.

“A couple of people bring cinnamon swirl bread to meets,

to bond as a team.

“We go out to dinner every Friday to eat and rotate Spirit days, team dinners and other team-wide activities and traditions have fostered a sense of community and fam-

wide activities throughout or after the season.

Winter Track is starting a new tradition this year to en-

6

spread

january 25, 2013

spread

january 25, 2013

Does your pet proclivity say something about your personality type?

A: Q: What are the qualities you like the most in your cat?

A:

choose her?

A:

Q: What makes you a cat person?

A: A:

Q: What makes you a cat person?

A: A:

A:

A: A:

A:

cat?

A:

A: A: Q: What makes you a cat person?

A:

A:

A: A:

A:

choose him?

A: A:

A:

Q: What are the qualities you like the

A:

A:

A:

A:

Q: What makes you a cat person?

A: A: A:

A:

A:

7

entertainment

january 25, 2013

Movie

Ballet

Restaurant

8

TV

photo by Thrisha Potluri

‘Menchie’s’

‘1600 Penn’

by Arya Dahal Opinion Editor It begins normally enough. A distraught father and a car crash. In the new creepy thriller, “Mama,” the normality ends

by Thrisha Potluri Managing Editor In the past year, frozen yogurt (froyo) shops have opened in nearly every shopping center. Now, the frozen yogurt

by Michael Chao Opinion Editor NBC’s latest comedy to premiere goes by the name of “1600 Penn,” one that reeks of a response to ABC’s hit comedy “Modern Family.” “1600 Penn” tells the

takes place at a party from the mid-19th century, but when a storyteller transforms into a rabbit and Alice falls through Jell-O into Wonderland, the audience knows that this production is far from normal.

The interpretation done by the National Ballet of Canada was simply spectacular.

and produced by Guillermo del Toro, the movie provides old-fashioned thrills and scares more than the modern gore and blood. “Mama” originally appeared as a Spanish language short-movie in 2008.

The story centers around two sisters, Victoria and Lilly, who are taken from their house and abandoned in the woods at a

Located within walking distance, Menchies held its Grand Opening on Nov. 15 in the Pinecrest Plaza shopping center.

Like other froyo places, Menchies is self-serve, allowing customers the luxury of creating their own combinations. Simply

done and perfect for the portrayal of the story. Alice travels around Wonderland, becoming bigger and smaller throughout the performance.

The dancing was also technically impeccable, during the various pas de deux done by Alice, portrayed by Heather Ogden, and the Knave of Hearts, McGee Maddox.

the sisters in animal-like conditions. They are given to their uncle, Robert, and his girlfriend, Annabel. Slowly but surely, the new parents soon begin to feel a malicious and possessive presence in their house.

One question drives the entire plot of the movie: Who is Mama? Unlike many other horror movies that leave viewers

number while the Queen of Hearts remained graceful despite the humorous nature of her numbers.

This company’s interpretation of “just a dream” was particularly surprising, with Alice waking in the modern world.

The ballet did a great job of bringing out reactions from the audience. There were many humorous dances, as well as melancholy partings between Alice and the Knave. Unfortunately, the Queen of Hearts was not very intimidating at all, having a more humorous part.

Overall, the production was fantastic and whimsical, perfect for the story. The dancers’ beauty shines through the weird and intricate sets, telling the story perfectly.

“Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland,” will be at the Kennedy Center through Jan. 27.

an answer to the question and a semi-

‘Alice in Wonderland’ Entertainment Editor “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland,” a theatrical production by the National Ballet of Canada, astounds viewers with fantastical sights. The ballet loosely follows the plotline

‘Mama’

your toppings and pay based on weight.

Before selecting your yogurt, you have the option of sampling any of the Blueberry Açai Tart to even Ice Cream Sandwich Bar, a delightful froyo rendition of the classic ice cream treat.

While there are 14 choices, the Punch Sorbet and Kiwi Strawberry Sorbet

many heartwarming scenes that are not as common in the horror movie genre.

However, the second half of the story drags on. Although the scares pile up, disappears. Mama’s appearances, Lilly’s creepy wild habits, and a sympathetic end certainly a step in the right direction.

One thing’s for sure: Two barbaric girls and an over-doting Mama are enough to make a solid PG-13 horror movie. If you’re in the mood for a few scares and a simple plot line, “Mama” is the right choice. But for hard-core horror fans like me, the movie proved to be just another comedy.

did not have the same texture as the other yogurts and tasted more like smoothies.

While they may not hold true to the concept of frozen yogurt, they are relatively healthy.

Menchies has a topping stand, with standard chopped fruits, candy and cookies.

However, Menchies has a limited selection of toppings. Additionally, the chopped fruit did not look fresh. Still, the fair number of topping and froyo combinations makes for a unique snack each visit.

So if you’re in the mood for some ice cream after school, head over to Menchies for this healthier alternative. Be sure to check out the store’s Facebook page for special discounts, promotions and free giveaways.

by Jennifer Walter Entertainment Editor “Catchphrase” and “Statuesque” are two plays that were performed at “The Playwright’s Workshop” on Jan. 11, an event organized by students to showcase their plays after the annual “Knight of One-Axe” canceled that part of the event.

“As someone who had waited two years for an opportunity that was frustrating for me so I emailed and talked to the supervisors of TJ Drama about creating another opportunity for student writers,” Rudin said.

Rudin went on to direct her play, “Statuesque,” with senior Saloni photo courtesy Jordan Goodson

-

Coming Attractions Jennifer Walter

‘Hansel and Gretel: Witch Hunters’ Theaters everywhere

by junior Jordan Goodson. family. We play the game a lot, and it

‘Shen Yun’ Kennedy Center

the White House, one that languishes in the comedy sitcom’s no man’s land of annoyingly unfunny.

The plot seems to center itself on Josh Gad, who tries and fails to play the role of the president’s immature son, Skip Gilchrist. Gad’s character is grating because every not-so-funny line that comes out of his mouth is predictable.

Unfortunately, it does not bode well if the bane of your show turns out to be your main character.

Another thing that has plagued “1600 impression. Its pilot episode was quite frankly, unwatchable. The second and third episodes, “The Skiplantic Ocean” and “So You Don’t Want to Dance,” were with tired jokes and leaves the viewers smacking themselves at his stupidity.

There is some good to be found amidst the failure of “1600 Penn.” The premise of the show seems promising, but the viewer is left wishing for political humor where only half-developed, generic jokes lie.

Once the audience starts to realize that all the mildly funny lines get exhausted in will start to lose hope.

The idea is there, but the execution and acting is noticeably lacking. Unless Thursday night, “1600 Penn” warrants no more than a quick glance when other shows are on commercial breaks.

and competitive,” Goodson said. “I’ve well as a full-length play. I’m currently working on my second full-length play.”

Frenchwoods Festival of the Performing Arts, a prestigious drama camp, in the summer. She is not the only student pursuing drama outside of the department. Sophomore Misha Ryjik works professionally as an actor.

“The best job I’ve ever had was working for Synetic Theater,” Ryjik a professional cast, and I really felt like I was learning a lot and having a good time.”

Ryjik has worked at the Synetic Theater in Crystal City, at the Ambassador Theater in Washington

‘Warm Bodies’ Theaters everywhere

‘Smash’ Fox

D.C., and at Mount Vernon Community Children’s Theater and has played Lysander in “A Midsummer Night Dream” at Synetic Theater.

Senior Malaika Murphy had an internship with the Folger Theater from September to December studying Shakespearean literature, including “Hamlet,” “Richard III” and “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.”

“We learned everything from Elizabethan politics to how to skewer someone properly with a rapier,” Murphy said.

Ryjik and Murphy will continue acting in college. Rudin and Goodson also intend to keep writing.

“Playwriting is my passion and what I want to do with my life,” Goodson throw myself into, but it’s what I love, and I’m going to pursue it.”

‘Two Lanes of Freedom’ Stores everywhere

health

january 25, 2013

Pain in the back

9

Students experience back pain for a wide variety of reasons

By Alexis Williams Features Editor This season is often the busiest time for students. With midterms, interviews and internship applications, many students experience stress. For some, this stress can have painful repercussions.

Many students experience back pain on a regular basis during the school year from stress and a variety of other reasons.

“When I am really stressed, I experience pain in my lower back for about a day,” sophomore Connor Simpson said.

Back pain can come from stress because it can cause muscle tension in the back, making a person more prone to injury and soreness. Stress can lead to sleeping problems, which is also a cause of back pain.

According to chiropractor Philip Golinsky, heavy backpacks are one of the major causes of back pain in high school students.

“High school students carry a lot of weight in their backpacks. Teenagers, especially ones who are not done growing, can have serious back pain because of backpacks,” Golinsky said.

Golinksy said that muscle weakness in the back is the main cause of back pain.

“My schedule is pretty physically strenuous. I do a lot of heavy lifting for my daily tasks,” junior Carl Fremlin said.

Essentially, the muscles in the back and core are not strong enough to hold

weight.

“My back usually aches on the bus ride home, especially on anchor days,” sophomore Kendra Song said.

Improper technique in athletics can also cause pain.

“Back injuries are probably the third most common type of orthopedic injury, after knee and ankle,” athletic trainer Heather Murphy said. “I see kids with back injuries very often.”

According to Murphy, back injuries are due to a lack stretching before sports practices.

“There is a small time frame for warmups in after-school sports, so stretching is not a focus during that time. It is a problem because not stretching properly leads to injuries, especially in sports that concentrate on the back, like crew and gymnastics,” she said.

Murphy also believes that a lack of physical activity during the day can cause back problems.

“Students who are sitting down all day hunched over or who have poor posture are less flexible in their backs and hips. Inflexibility causes soreness and injuries,” Murphy said.

According to the National Institutes of Health, there are many ways to treat chronic back pain without seeing a doctor. Medications such as over-the-counter pain medicine and anti-inflammatory medicine help keep swelling down. Heat and ice packs relax muscles. There are also various stretches and exercises designed to help back pain.

“When my back pain is really bad, I put hot rice bags on my back,” junior Roy Rinberg said.

However, it is important to recognize the differences between structural problems and muscle weakness. Structural problems cannot be fixed by simple methods like exercise and usually require a doctor’s intervention, such as surgery or chiropractic treatment.

Senior Michelle Chang has severe back pain because of a skeletal disorder called L5 sacralization, in which the fifth lumbar vertebra fuses with the sacrum vertebra. The disorder, which occurs at birth, was aggravated when Chang began rowing her freshman year.

“The severity of my back pain depends on the day, but it is a daily struggle,” Chang said.

Fortunately for those with structural problems, there is a long-term solution in some cases.

Sophomore Kyle Herndon has scoliosis, a disorder in which the spine is not completely straight, but it has been getting better through weekly trips to the chiropractor.

“I have always had bad posture, which may have contributed to my scoliosis. Going to the chiropractor has really helped, though,” Herndon said.

In order to prevent back pain, exercising and core strengthening help prevent back pain.

“I try to deal with pain by stretching and seeing a chiropractor at least once a month,” Chang said.

photo illustration by Alexis Williams

How to stretch out your back properly

Stretch 1: Bring knee up to chest.

Stretch 3: Lunge Stretch 4: Tuck foot Repeat with other leg. Repeat surface. Grab toe an pull. with knees bent. under knee. Twist each leg several times.

Repeat with other leg.

Push hips forward. body over leg. photos and reporting by Alexis Williams. Student pictured is senior Julia Arthur with athletic trainer Heather Murphy.

Take time to care for yourself, your friends and your family.

6550 Little River Turnpike, Alexandria, VA 22312

Pandayo Best wishes for a healthy and safe new year!

Tel: (703) 478-6800 1043 Sterling Rd. Suite #101 Herndon, VA, 20170

Tel: (703) 560-1602 262 Cedar Lane #M-1 Vienna, VA, 22180

Email: info@aadrivingacademy.net www.aadrivingacademy.net *Teach You Safe, Responsible & Accountable Driving

10

features

january 25, 2013

Upperclassmen prepare for interviews

by Shayna Hume Features Editor During the month of January, students usually begin the interview process. Interviews are conducted for various reasons, including college applications, scholarships, recognitions and even sometimes internships.

“I had never done an interview before this year at all, so I didn’t know what kinds of questions would be asked of me,” senior Minh Bui said. “I got a lot of help from the College and Career Center about giving answers that would help my interviewer get to know me.”

For some college-bound seniors, the interviews are the hardest part of the process. be many ways to makes mistakes.

In preparation for their interviews, many them look as professional as possible. According to the College and Career Center Specialist Laurie Kobick, girls should dress in business casual unless told otherwise. Businice pants or a skirt and a blouse or a sweatdown shirt and khakis, or some equivalent.

For college alumni interviews, the graduate isn’t generally told anything about the applicant prior to the interview, so students are often advised to bring a resume to prompt more discussion during the interview. However, even without that, interviews are norconversation progresses.

“I thought that the interviews would be more intimidating, but the interviewers are all very nice and love to share fun stories about their schools,” senior Laura Brouckman said.

“Our talking points mainly included my job at Georgetown, what I liked about the respective schools, my favorite classes and extracurriculars—nothing particularly strange for an interview,” senior Gabi Johnson said.

Interviews themselves can range from informal meetings, which are more typical those done by college alumni, to more tradition ones for internships and scholarships.

“Scholarship interviews are much more formal and require preparation,” senior KevMost commonly for interviews for scholarships, students have already made it through one round of applications, so the interviewer will already have their information

from their application. interview, they asked me questions about also asked why I had chosen to write the spesaid.

Another kind of interview that students for an award or recognition. Junior Will Ashe recently had to interview in front of an entire panel to make the rank of Eagle Scout.

“I had to essentially explain how I showed leadership during my project and also answer questions about what I had done during my time in the Boy Scouts to prove that I deserved the rank to the interviewing panel,” Ashe said.

However, in all cases, it is a good idea for students to research the college, scholarship or recognition in preparation for the interview. Students should be prepared to ask questions that aren’t answered on a program’s website.

“I didn’t bring a list of questions to my college interviews, but I made sure to look at the website of the school to think of some. Usually I asked about housing, the Greek system, study abroad and sports opportunities,” Brouckman said.

For college interviews, not only should students ask questions about the college, but Kobick also advises asking the interviewer about their own college experiences.

“If the interviewer is older and out of college for many years, they may not could share what their favorite class was and what they learned,” Kobick said. sation with give and take on both sides.”

For college applications, interviews college alumni association in the area.

Not all students get to have an interview, but the earlier a student gets their application in, the more likely their shot is to have an interview.

A common misconception about college interviews is that they can damage that the interviewer sends a report of the interview to the college admissions ofHowever, the purpose of the interview is just to provide more information about the applicant.

that vary from subject to subject. cepts that require memorization, such as vocabulary for forinto her routine.

French vocab and anything I need to memorize in chemis-

hosts quarterly study skills sessions durtoward helping freshmen develop good study habits early on.

Christina Ketchem, the Big Sibs sponsor, said. “I think that they are especially useful for freshmen who need to ask about time management tips.”

Recently, utilizing online resources has surfaced as a popular approach to studying as more and more information becomes available on the Web. Several textbooks that students use have websites that provide outlines, extra problems and practice tests.

Freshman Evelyn Mo studies for the

where I thought technology would go in the next 20 years,” senior Ryan Madani said.

In the end, most students agree, postinterview, that the reality of interviewing is much less stressful than some make it out to be.

“I just acted professionally, dressed well and tried to make it show that the school was my top choice,” Johnson said.

What to Wear: Girls: Business casual for girls is nice pants or a skirt and a blouse or sweater.

Boys: Boys should dress in a khakis.

Wear: Girls: Nothing revealing, too short or inappropriate.

Boys: No shorts or athletic clothing unless told to dress casually by the interviewer. graphics by Shayna Hume

by Ellen Kan Features Editor Practicing good study habits in the days and weeks leading up to a major assessment is a skill at a premium at this time of year.

take them in the car, and even cramming in extra studying at lunch is a whole lot easier.”

they should always accept it to help their admission to the college,” Kobick said.

For students who are nervous, or just need help preparing before going into an interview, there are many ways to practice beforehand.

“I do practice interviews with students and give them guidelines with sample questions to prepare at home,” Kobick said. “I also tell students to google who is interviewest to get the conversation going.”

In addition, many of the most common interview questions are already out there online. Interviewers generally ask broad questions to get to know the candidate.

“My interviewer asked why I liked Columbia and what I thought I could add to the culture there. Also, he asked

es are helpful in the long run “because you get daily practice on all aspects of the test.”

Junior Romain Debroux praises sites such as Paul’s Online Notes, KhanAcademy, and APNotes, which he uses for several of his more challenging classes.

“Seeing other people’s notes and their way of understanding concepts helps me understand the material more thoroughly,” Debroux said. “My notes are always structured a

cause it eliminates the hassle of having to compile notes from separate Word documents.

Other students prefer to study face-to-face with their friends over the Internet.

“I always use Skype to do group studying sessions,” said junior Rena Mazur. “It helps a lot to have several of your friends on Skype to answer your questions and together plow through the material.”

Other online resources similar to Skype include video

the material.”

Online sites have also emerged as an advantageous way to study with peers. Senior Michelle Wang and her friends use Google Docs to create group study guides. Wang notes that Google Docs is a convenient and indispensable resource be-

Other students exchange information with their peers by creFacebook groups.

Group studying, however, is not for everyone. According to junior Jamie Simon, collaborating with peers is not always “I like group studying, but only when you

Surveyed students reveal how far ahead they studied for assessments SAT, PSAT and ACT:

Midterms: Morning of/ Not at all 8%

Not at all 18%

Less than 2 months 37%

Over a year 21%

Over two months 24%

so many that studying becomes secondary,” Simon said. “You have to strike a balance and reach some happy medium between the two.”

Another distraction arises from the temptation to spend time on social media websites choose to block these websites. Sophomore Pegah Moradi uses SelfControl, an app for Mac users that creates a blacklist of websites that cannot be opened for a predetermined amount of time.

“Once you block the websites, you can’t ac-

Less than a month 6%

Less than two weeks 33%

Less than a week 53%

90 students responded to the intranet poll infographic by Shayna Hume

“It’s really helpful because I sometimes automatically click on Facebook even when I’m trying to focus on studying.”

In the end, it’s about feeling ready.

“Just smile!” junior Julian Nguyen said. “If you studied your hardest, all you can do is go in

january 25, 2013

advertisement

11

12 WHAT’S COLD? 2012 2013 WHAT’S ? culture

january 25, 2013

Students dish on changing trends of the new year

COLD HOT “It’s the move to say that it’s the move. No doubt about it.”

#YOLO

#THEMOVE

- senior Mookie Goodson

Tim Tebow “Why are there so many cupcakeries everywhere? Get some of that Krispy Kreme. And I don’t mean the awful rapper on YouTube.”

- junior Rebecca Duke

Cupcakes

“Apple is popular, but I think Samsung will be in this year. I’m

-

Alfred Morris

“Alfred Morris is more of a man than Tebow will ever be.”

- senior Justin Hwang

Donuts

Jeans

Leggings

Apple

Samsung

“I haven’t worn jeans in two months and counting, and I do not miss them. I predict leggings will reach eternal instyle status just like jeans have.”

- senior Jasmine Denizard

cool.“ - sophomore Helen Zhang

Instagram

Snapchat

“Snapchat is an art form. Insing art that failed. I couldn’t care less what you had for lunch thank you very much.”

- junior Andreas Butler

“‘Buckwild’ is basically ‘Jersey Shore’ but the redneck version. ‘Jersey Shore’ has just been going on for too long.“ - senior Zach Ho

‘Jersey Shore’ ‘Buckwild’

Classrooms gives you more control over what you want to listen to. Pan-

Trailers

“I thought I would hate trailers, but it’s a nice wake-up call and it’s nice to get fresh air. The trailer computer labs are the best, and they’re nice and big.“ - sophomore Anant Das

Pandora Spotify

music in a genre you like.“ - senior Daniel Edwards

College Apps

unload what’s going on in my mind. It’s like my

Bucket List

“I have a senior bucket list with big things like getting into college, but also like meeting everybody in the Class of 2013. “ - senior Avanti Shirke

Facebook Twitter

- freshman Cheryl Mensah graphics, layout and reporting by Amy Ahn