Aquila
March 31, 2015
Volume 4, Issue 2
University Preparatory Academy
First-Ever Rockin’ Sadie Hawkins By Selena Razo
Photo Courtesy of Andrew Yau Students pose at the Sadies’ Dance photo booth. From left to right: Gerardo Gallardo, Luis Guevara, Consuelo De La Torre, Hailey Allen, Sophia Pappas, Emily Trujillo, Alan Martino-Murillo, and Angel Ortiz.
Photo Courtesy of Andrew Yau From left to right: Bubbles (Jami Lomeli), Blossom (Jacalyn Trujillo) and Buttercup (Adrienne Lee) crusade at Sadie’s.
Photo Courtesy of Andrew Yau Kimberly Meza and Josh Richardson attend dressed as Superwoman and Superman.
During the early days of March, some male students sweat with anxiety over whether they would be asked to UPA’s Sadie’s Dance, held at Willow Glen Community Center on Saturday, March 14. Fears were alleviated when some UPA girls got creative with ways to ask someone to Sadie’s. “I decided to ask [sophomore] Tiernan McMahon to Sadie’s by being a flyer in a cheer stunt while holding a sign that said ‘Will you tackle Sadie’s with me?’” freshman Olivia Foreman said. The use of puns was an idea of another UPA freshman. “To ask [freshman] Noah Flores, I made a poster that said, ‘I NOAH girl who wants to take you to Sadie’s,” freshman Lauren Hernandez said. Although the idea of having a date is usually associated with romance, many students went with friends as their “dates” instead. “I asked Josh Bronner because we both know how to party, so I might as well party hard with someone ‘bootyful,’ you know?” freshman Connie Liu said. Even though it was a Sadie’s dance, not everyone sought the need for a date. “Whenever people would use the excuse ‘I don’t have a date,’ I always mentioned the fact that I was going single as well, and it worked,” senior and ASB President Jessica Abraham said about encouraging students to attend. While some attendees went to the dance as Superman or the Powerpuff Girls, others dressed as Doctor Fuzzy Pajamas — but at home. Not having an interest in “saving the day,” some UPA students declined to attend to dance. “I didn’t like the superhero theme,” sophomore Lorna Haworth said. “We aren’t in preschool.” Still, those who did attend were in for a new treat. Literally. Rather than the usual sole option of pizza, one particularly interesting food option was the addition of chicken wings to the available food choices. However, unfortunately, there was no pie to be eaten on Pi Day. Sadie’s also sparked elation for the upcoming Junior-Senior Prom for some upperclassmen. “This dance was super important to me because this will be the last dance I’ll get to plan since it’s the last casual dance I’m going to have in high school,” Abraham said. “After attending Sadie’s, I am more excited to attend prom since it will officially be my last dance of my senior year of high school, and with my senior class,” senior Gianna Ochinero said. “It’ll be an opportunity to create more memories before we all walk the stage together on graduation day.”
The End of an Era: UPA Says Goodbye to Hophan By Eliana Batrez At the beginning of second semester, Director of Student Services Phil Hophan accepted a principal position at Taylor Middle School in Millbrae in order to have a shorter daily commute and be closer to his family. He worked at UPA since its opening in 2007 and was the first employee hired. After having worked at UPA for so long, Hophan hoped to go on to do bigger and better things at Taylor. However, Hophan knows that leaving UPA will be a big change. “My last UPA memory is my drive in from home [and] realizing that I would no longer
be doing that drive that I had done for so long, [there were] mixed emotions for sure between leaving a place I had come to consider a second home and [going] on to new things.” One of Hophan’s biggest contributions to UPA was the experience he brought to creating the ASB program. “[ASB] was a big item of his,” Executive Director Daniel Ordaz said. “He made sure to have a lot of student activities to offset the school’s academic rigor, and it was something that he championed.” “He really worked on bringing the whole school together- not just students to students but with faculty and admin
as well” said Robert Hernandez, UPA’s first ASB president and class of 2014 alumnus. Hophan’s positivity, encouragement, and organization are the attributes ASB President Jessica Abraham will miss the most. Common to other students, Hophan also mentored Abraham. “Whether it was answering constant emails, giving me academic advice, or just helping me with anything that I needed, I knew I could count on him,” Abraham said. The UPA community of parents and staff will not soon forget Hophan either. “Mr. Hophan was always very on top of being open
Photo courtesy of Sydney Harder After eight dedicated years at University Preparatory Academy, Phil Hophan reflects on his career. He was hired as one of the first staff members on campus. and responsive to both parents and students,” said Attendance Clerk Dorene McClung, who has played an active role within the UPA community the last eight years. As for his parting message to the school, Hophan advises “not to lose sight of [the]
attitude of “you don’t need to be sick to get better” to continue to push forward toward greatness for all students.” “UPA will forever be etched in my heart and mind as the place that I became the principal I always wanted to be,” Hophan said.
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March 31, 2015
News
FIDM Models Strike a Pose, Come on Vogue
Photo Courtesy of Jeremy Wong Alex Muñoz walks down the runway as a model during the FIDM Fashion Show on January 30.
By Biren Rama
Since summer break, the presidents of the FIDM fashion club, a UPA branch of the greater Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising, have been working on a project. The first ever FIDM fashion show was debuted on January 30, earlier this year in the Horton Auditorium. Arianna Kotlier, a junior and FIDM club president, described how the project was originally conceived months ago, over summer break, “We were sitting in my living room,” she said, “We were writing the mission statement, and we were talking aloud and we said: Fashion show!” Kotlier, along with her co-president Sophia Chacko,
planned the event independently, creating an itinerary that included student performances, emcee’s, and three distinct fashion categories: casual, bohemian (or unorthodox), and nightlife. “The production was mostly student run with the assistance of a few teachers. However it was well produced,” raved junior and attendee David Smith, “The room was packed...Finding a seat was difficult, a lot of people were standing in the back or against a wall.” They were not entirely alone, however, as they had the support of the FIDM organization and their connections, such as fashion boutique Styles for Less. “FIDM, thank God for FIDM, gave us the contact information for Styles for Less. They have an
agreement with Styles for Less,” said Kotlier. Due to a partnership with FIDM, Styles for Less provided the club with clothes by loaning them out to borrow, and holding the club accountable for damages. “We had our fitting on [January 23], and all the 20-something models picked two outfits each, and we organized them on racks, and [Styles for Less] calculated the value of everything, and held us accountable for all the items we checked out,” said Kotlier. Responsibility was a theme throughout the planning process. “We had to be independent and follow all the rules. If you hear it once, do it. Be a good listener. We had to go with the flow. We didn’t really have much to do, we just had to go out there, and be confident in ourselves,” said junior Stephanie Umali, a model in the show. “[Planning] really enhances communication skills, responsibility and the feeling you have of accomplishing the event like we did...That’s what we taught our club members, it was a lot of responsibility but it was also something we really enjoy,” said Chacko. The presidents had good intentions as well; all profits made — off various snacks sold at concessions and a henna booth — went to the charity Voice of a Child, who work to inspire children’s social and educational lives in Kerala, India. Their main purpose: to create something new and unheard of, that could be called UPA’s own. “We wanted it to be different from normal fashion clubs we see at other schools,” said Chacko. They wished to prove to themselves that they were capable of such an undertaking. “I wanted to create something out of the club that we were really passionate about, and something that would create a lasting impact,” added Kotlier.
University Trip
Inspires Juniors to Consider Campuses By Melissa Drews From February 11-14, University Preparatory Academy’s junior class toured colleges in Southern California during the annual Junior Trip to help students discover what type of colleges might be right for them. “The trip helped me realize what I am looking for in a college,” junior Shogo Nishimura said. “It provided me an opportunity to figure out what I like by going to all these colleges in a short time [and] compare each one while they are all fresh in my head.” The juniors visited two colleges a day and had the evening time to spend with their classmates. Many explored the hotel, doing anything from swimming to playing hotel hideand-seek. Previous junior trips left some classes feeling a special bond after the experience. However, as this is the largest junior class in UPA’s history, some juniors had mixed feelings on how much they bonded. “I don’t think I have gotten any closer to the class as a whole than before the trip,” Nishimura said. “I assume it may be because of how large our class is, so we usually spend our time in smaller groups of friends than as one big group.” While visiting the col-
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leges, the class spent numerous hours in a bus, creating a prime bonding opportunity. “I think that it took a day or two to bond,” junior Brenna Bennett said, “but when we did, we talked across the bus, played games and even sang songs with each other.” The size of the class also played a significant role in deciding which colleges to visit. Sandra Trotch, junior and senior counselor, said smaller universities have a harder time accommodating large classes such as this year’s. In the past, some campuses, like Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, have split up the group based on what majors students are interested in, which allows them to be more engaged. “Before going, I already had an out-of-state college in mind,” Bennett said, “but going on the trip really opened my mind about the many, many different types of colleges here in California.” Trotch said the trip helps juniors realize they will soon be in college and discover what they want through exposure to many different college perspectives. “Even though I still plan on going to my pre-determined college, it made me think about the application process, back-up schools, and choosing the college by the programs they offer,” Bennett said. “I would definitely do it again.”
The trip helped
me realize what I
am looking for in
”
a college.
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Photo courtesy of Andrew Yau Kim Do uses her Hulk fists during Sadie’s on March 14. Check out the full Sadie’s photo album at upaaquila.com.
Sadie’s Dance Photo Album Cake Decorating Video Tutorial by Emily Massiello Technology Today by Albert Lam Photography Project: Students of UPA by Natorie Moreno List and Synopsis of Popular Animes by Paj Thao
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Editorial
Volume 4, Issue 2
Forget This, Bring Me the Turkey To Be or Not to Be? scores.
By Diana Rendler UPA Success Day, College Day, API Rewards Day. The minimum day before the long weekend for Thanksgiving has been called all of these names, but this day is just a hassle. The day originated when UPA students were still taking the standardized test at the end of every school year. Daniel Ordaz, UPA’s executive director, said, ¨All our students had a real hand in turning around from low results on API to high results on API.” He said the administration wanted to thank the students and teachers for working so diligently on improving the test
UPA’s AQUILA
Hence the creation of the game day and free barbecue lunch, held annually before Thanksgiving break. This day has been a source of frustration for students, teachers, and administers, and is often skipped by students so they can go on vacation early. Ordaz recognized it is the “poorest day of attendance.” This is not hard to believe. Students would love to have this day off, but then again, students would love to have the whole week off, and and this is where desire and necessity clash. There has to be a certain amount of instructional hours in the school year, and there is no way around this. But there are two sides to every story, and even though the Administration has to comply with the limits the Board of Education places on the calendar, this half day still drives everyone crazy.
Media Controversies Show Freedoms Under Attack
The Aquila is a studentproduced and student-edited high school newspaper. It serves as a designed public forum for student expression. Editor in Chief Sydney Harder Managing Editor Eliana Batrez In-Depth Editor Juli Rendler News Editor Nicky Castillo Melissa Drews Editorial Editor Biren Rama Features Editor Kim Do A & E Editor Meklit Moges Campus Life Editor Sahana Bhargava Copy Editor Paj Thao Web/Social Media Editors Lucy Yepiz Flavio Quintero Staff Writers Osvaldo Barragan, Neha James, Sabeeq Karim, Emily Massiello, Natorie Moreno, Diana Rendler, Jimmy Sran, Fetwti Tekie, Nerayo Tekie, Selena Razo Advisor Laura Gordon Reska Contact (408) 723-1839 2315 Canoas Garden Ave San Jose, CA 95125 aquila@upatoday.com www.upaaquila.com
However, this is a vicious cycle. If the school gets Wednesday off, the school would have a shorter summer which would also frustrate people. The main issue here is the use of the half day. Based on past API Days and their replacements, no one knows how to use this day. This is what bothers students the most; having to come to school and sit in each class for thirty minutes. Nothing is ever accomplished, and yet students are expected to show up and listen to teachers drone on and on about their college experiences. Or even better, students can sit in the Horton and listen to the administrators congratulate other people. No one wants this but the administration does not want annoyed students leaving for break; turkey and massively annoyed students is not a good combination.
By Sydney Harder North Korea has permeated headlines over the past few months, with the infamous Sony hack and dramatic threats to the safety of defiant filmgoers who went to support “The Interview.” Considering that Kim Jong Un’s notorious strategy of empty threats which are commonplace and generally dismissed as petty cries for attention, Sony’s submissive response demonstrates a hint of cowardice. Films have conveyed unorthodox views and dealt with the critisism for years. Screenwriters that venture into the politically controversial world accept the inevitable frowns that their movies provoke, audaciously pursuing the opportunity to express their perspective on a disputed topic. Other nations unable to grasp the concept of free speech may interpret mediums exposing their own flaws as offensive. Naturally, any form of expression that differs from the rosy image of their country depicted in their propaganda is looked down upon as defamatory. Although “The Interview” contained its fair share of satirical depictions of North Korea, the content was conveyed in a dramatized style that was beg-
ging to be taken lightly. Dan Sterling, the film’s screenwriter, reaffirmed that “the movie, in our minds, was supposed to be an outrageous ― of course, somewhat provocative, but totally hilarious ― comedy” as told to Vulture Magazine. Sony pulling “The Interview” from theaters remains an absurd reaction for a film that did not intend to be perceived as “an act of war.” Self-censorship contradicts America’s dedication to protecting the rights of its citizens and maintaining solidarity amid foreign pressures. Across the world, a similar act of terror in response to Charlie Hebdo’s cartoons warned of the consequences that writers are forced to confront. Infamous for its political satire, Charlie Hebdo, a French magazine, was the victim of a shooting carried out by radical Islamists Chérif and Saïd Kouachi on January 7, 2015. They were retaliating against Charlie Hebdo’s publication of caricatures of Muhammad. While it is crucial to maintain neutrality in news, popular culture or management cannot push writers to publish their opinions in fear of others potential reactions. However, writers should remember the importance of tact when approaching controversial issues and use their judgment accordingly. The universal fight for freedom of speech wages on, inciting vengeance in extremists but bringing courage to those that firmly grip the pen.
By Sahana Bhargava It appears as though most UPA students already know what they want to become. If you like science, you want to be a doctor; if you like English, you want to be a writer; if you like math, you want to be an engineer; and if you like history you want to be a lawyer. We choose our careers based on books, movies, personality tests, and misconceptions regarding what will make us successful, happy and wealthy individuals in the 21st century. But, choosing a career isn’t as straightforward, and UPA students, like most other students, are fairly narrowminded regarding college, careers, and life Most UPA students think top paying jobs are limited to the stereotypical doctor, engineer, lawyer, or politician professions, while the truth might lie in the untapped gray areas between the President of a country and let’s say, a tattoo artist.
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sions, watch videos on typical and atypical days of professionals in that field, and even go the extra mile to converse with individuals who are working your aspired jobs to get the fact sheet. Surprise yourself by discovering that if you like science you can become a firework designer, a laughter therapist, or even a combat architect. The possibilities are endless and information readily available at the click of a few buttons; put Google search to the test! While it may project an image of steadfastness to declare your major as a college applicant and it might appear naïve to go in undeclared; statistics from College Board indicate that most students change their major at least once. Researching careers is an essential step in understanding the nuances of different career options, for, without that, a prospective writer for example, might never find out that they are likely to spend more time writing to publishers for grants than writing their masterpiece. Parents are an equally essential part of the equation, especially since they pay the tuition, when it comes to choosing a college major. While it is vital to receive support and approval f r o m y o u r p a r ents, it does not m e a n t h e y should dictate y o u r college major or career. The choice lies in your hands – you can either choose a career you are genuinely interested in or a career your parents are genuinely interested in. Let’s rewind to the happy past when our elders asked the simple question, “What do you want to become when you grow up?” It was easy to answer that question with a spirited, monosyllabic job title; and, if we wanted to make things even more interesting for ourselves, we gave them a different job title for every day of the week. But we all have matured, well at least to a certain extent, and should be able to answer that same question with a well-researched response; an answer that is genuine and heartfelt, the key to true success and happiness on the job. So ask yourself, and truly think about it, what do you want to be when you grow up?
[Students] are fairly narrowminded regarding college majors, careers, and pathway in life.
It’s time to debunk this myth. According to Forbes magazine, the seventh highest paying job in 2014 was that of an Air Traffic Controller. Now, do not jump to conclusions and do not plan to become an Air Traffic Controller just for the money; sadly, they also have a high suicide rate. Choosing a career is about walking a fine line between what you like and what makes money. Air Traffic Control is not meant for everyone; imagine sitting behind a desk ensuring that planes take-off and land safely, while mediating the flow of air traffic, all day, every day. It is an extremely stressful job; you are responsible for so many airborne lives and assets. So, before setting your college major and career in stone, research different profes-
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March 31, 2015
“I don’t have any friends.” -Basketcase By Fetwti Tekie Introversion: the misconception of “quiet” and “independent” individuals being labeled as introverts. For an extrovert, social interactions might bring energy and comfort; for “shy,” “awkward” introverts, social interactions bring the opposite. Comfort and energy are instead found on a personal basis, often times alone. People often misunderstand the definition of an introvert. Many believe introverts are loners who prefer to keep themselves in a birdcage of sorts. However, an introvert is a person who is energized by spending time alone. Often found in their homes, libraries, and quiet parks (or other secluded places), introverts like to think and be alone. Many introverts can be talkative, social, or have many friends; it all depends on the individual. There are even extroverted introverts, where they are introverts who are social butterflies; however, all introverts receive more energy when they spend time alone and away from the crowd. If you put introverts into an environment with a lot of stimulation, like a party or a restaurant, they might feel overwhelmed and need to recharge at the end of the day. As a result, introverts tend to avoid such active environments. It isn’t that they are shy or anti-social, it is simply the way they function, just as extroverts receive more energy after social interactions and consequently actively pursue them. In a world dominated by extroverts, it is difficult for an introvert to integrate themselves in society. When people are forced to give presentations at school or be sociable for interviews, introverts are seen as timid or reserved when they do not integrate well with the majority of the population. There’s a difference between preferring Netflix to social gatherings and preferring libraries to seeing the light of day. Introverts are more concerned with the inner word of the mind, than attending ear-piercing social gatherings.
“Each one of us is a brain, an athlete, a basketcase, a princess and a criminal.” By Diana Rendler Harper Lee, author of “To Kill a Mockingbird” wrote “You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view — until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.” Empathy, something that can only be achieved by putting oneself in another’s position, is a skill that in this day and age, teenagers lack. However, empathy goes above simply understanding other people; in fact there are several types of empathy. Understanding Oneself This includes being able to recognize and comprehend one’s own feelings as well as accepting those emotions. This part of empathy is the basis upon which the other types of empathy are built. Understanding others This is the most com-
monly known type of empathy; it includes understanding, on a deeper level, other’s thoughts and feelings. This is different than sympathy which is feeling sorry for someone else misfortunates without knowing what that person are going through. Empathy is the ability consider the situation from other’s perspective and imagine what they are going through. Non-Verbal Empathy This includes body language and posture. How a person stands and their facial expression have an impact on their empathy. If a person is defensive or hostile, it is visible in their stance. In order to seem more empathetic, it is necessary to seem more open and relatable. The children of the 21st century do not connect with other people or develop strong personal
relationships; kids are often blind to the desires of other people and this leads to a lack of empathy. They are absorbed in their own problems and often forgot that someone out there has it worse. This generation is quick to pass judgement and assign labels, based on a fraction of a person’s life and emotions. Daniel Goleman, author of Social Intelligence: The New Science of Human Relationships writes, “Self-absorption in all its forms kills empathy, let alone compassion. When we focus on ourselves, our world contracts as our problems and preoccupations loom large. But when we focus on others, our world expands.” Empathy breaks down the barriers between people, but in modern day, attitude creates more barriers. In order to function as a society, one must to pay attention to other people and their unique situation.
Goleman also writes in his book, Emotional Intelligence, “A prerequisite to empathy is simply paying attention to the person in pain.” Noticing that a person is struggling is the first step understanding their experience and gaining empathy. To gain empathy, it is necessary to have an open mind. Sometimes, this means not immediately react to someone’s misfortune with “I’m sorry,” but stop and put oneself in their shoes. Think about their feelings and consider what is best for them. Maybe they don’t want sympathy, but one will never know if one does not make a conscious effort to consider the situation from their point of view.
The Breakfast Club
This year marks the 30th anniversary of John Hughes’ film “The Breakfast Club” and the movie is currently back in select theaters for a limited time only.
Anatomy of a Hipster
Anatomy of a Nerd Graphic illustrations by Nerayo Tekie and Natorie Moreno
“Everyone at this school loves me.” -Princess
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Depth
Volume 4, Issue 2
“I won’t tolerate losers in this family.” -Athlete
By Juli Rendler Popular: a general tendency, the current style. How people define trend is completely different everywhere you go. 2014 was a year of great trends and awful trends that needed to fall off the face of the earth. Many of them, most being ones teenagers obsessed over, concerned clothing. One movement that should stay is the rise of clothing brands using plus-sized models, leading to a step in the right direction for self-empowerment, especially in women and girls. For a long time, society used very thin women to set the standards for the average women. This caused lots of heartbreak and horrible eating disorders as teenage girls compared themselves against supermodels and fell quite short of matching the look. Only recently has that idea started to die out, and it is long overdue. The previous year contained trends that could include everyone; like Infinity scarves, and Jordans. You don’t have to be a certain size or race to wear any of those items. Trends in the past were usually confined to one ethnicity, but now, that is becoming less and less common.The rising trend of braids came out of nowhere. Whether someone’s hair looks better in a classic french braid or timeless African-style braids, both are back and here to stay.
Braids are beautiful to wear and our generation got lucky with hair trends. High-waisted shorts paired with any crop top can go. That outfit really only works on a certain body type that normal girls just do not have. Most of the time, they are also very revealing and inappropriate for teenage girls. Crop tops are especially not appropriate to wear in many places. The only places where they are really okay is the beach or the pool. While wearing highwaisted shorts with a crop top occasionally, in the right setting, can be mildly acceptable, wearing it everyday becomes old, fast. Definitely a fatal flaw. Another trend that can go is the sudden desire in every teenager to be hipster, or as some people call it, tumblr. (This is not an adjective.) This trend calls for a lot of floral and Doc Martens. One thing that followed the hipster trend is wearing shorts and Ugg boots together even though they contradict the other. Many of these trends got very popular, fast. Some disappeared the next day, even though everyone loved them, and some stayed way too long for anyone’s liking. Just remember that trends always resurface, so those lost but not forgotten trends will be back. In the meantime, 2015 should be full of new trends, so teenagers have a lot to look forward to.
By Nicky Castillo People say that rebels will amount to nothing, but they should think again. A good portion of our world was shaped by people who went against the social and political norms, aka rebels. Consider the United States of America. It began because a group of rebels in the 1770s hated the current government and took action. But look at the U.S. now. If everyone just followed the rules 300 years ago, we wouldn’t have the life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness we now enjoy. If everyone was okay with the status quo, we wouldn’t have the formal dance known as the waltz either. Believe it or not, the waltz was viewed as scandalous when it first came out in the early
1700s. waltz, and it soon became a big Men were the only ones The upper class in hit in Europe. to wear pants before the mid Western Europe thought the two If anyone from the 1800s 1900s, since it allowed for them dancer’s bodies were “too close”, saw twerking, rebels or not, it to ride horseback easier and made since in most common dances would have probably scared their working less cumbersome with during that era, the dancers never pants right off. their wider range of leg movetouched. ment. The only Wompoints of contact in en, on the the waltz were the other hand, hands, waist, and only wore shoulder. dresses So scansince they dalous. did none of Still, this those activiwas way too close ties. for most of Eu B y rope’s upper class, the 1900s, so it remained the however, “forbidden dance” some rebelPainting by Pervunenskiy Vladimir until the 1800s. lious womThis piece of art portrays the formality of the waltz. E v e n en started when it was allowed, many want- Speaking of which, wearing pants, since more of ed to protect their children from pants on women was also obscure them joined the workforce. this “offensive” act, so it was not until the 1970s (women normally Women like Amelia too popular. wore dresses or skirts instead). Bloomer resisted the status quo Eventually, the “rebels” Nowadays, girls wear- and wore pants and dress-pant of society started dancing the ing pants is commonplace. hybrids to prove that women did
By Eliana Batrez
At a school as challenging as ours, sports are usually put on the backburner. Instead, students are implicitly expected to sacrifice sleep, a social life, or athletic excellence in exchange for good grades. Like any choice, playing sports comes at a price; at UPA, the price happens to be a huge one. As students, free time is precious; as athletes, what would have been free time becomes practice, game, and tournament time. As a result, social lives are usually the first to take a hit. Breaks from the stressful workload are few and far between. Most friendships athletes have are those forged with their teammates and people who are familiar with the sport. There are, of course, exceptions — however, people normally choose to be around people they have similar things in common with. Socially, sports are a great way for students to meet new people outside of a stressful environment like UPA’s. Whether its a club sport or a school sport, athletes get the chance to see people in a different setting (and often time in their most comfortable form). They make friendships that last years (if not a lifetime) and people they didn’t fancy themselves even being friends
with end up becoming family. The time spent with them not only makes up for their lack of other social endeavors elsewhere but is a perfect chance to hang out, bond, and get to know teammates (and make some crazy cool memories in the process). Regardless, school is challenging and students need to work hard in order to get where they want to go. A lot of the time, sleep suffers considerably in the time that they’re working towards their goals. What with juggling life, school, their sport, and their miniscule social life, sleep is last on the list. Athletes take it wherever and whenever they can get it, but it doesn’t come nearly as often as they’d like it to. For many athletes, sleep is for the birds; however, sleep is a small price to pay when they’re doing something they love. Sports are also a helpful way to pay for school. Athletic scholarships, though few and far between, are an excellent prize for year’s worth of hard work and dedication. Whereas other students from different schools worry primarily about their academics, that’s one thing UPA students do not need to worry as much about: we know that our counselors, teachers, and the administration have us and our best interests covered. In all honesty, though, sports are amazing and being
able to play them is one of the biggest gifts. Sports keep the mind and body sharp and healthy (theoretically speaking). Problems and piles of homework are put on the backburner for a few hours a week and one can just escape even if for a little bit. The body and mind work in a way so cohesive, one feels like a lean, mean fighting machine. All jokes aside, sports make you feel like your body is in its prime of health. When you’re doing something you love, the good outweighs the bad. Sure, student athletes have to sacrifice a lot. But in the process, they gain a whole different side of them and get to do something they love. In that respect, the pros and cons of being a student athlete fade and in its place emerges a lifelong passion and/or lifestyle. UPA’s academic rigor is nothing to sneeze at; as students, we’re challenged far beyond our projected capacities on a daily basis. As athletes, those challenges are normally bigger. In the process, sleep is lost, homework is often our most present companion, and friendships and relationships become strained. Regardless, though, love for our sport and respect for the game keep us coming back, season after season.
“Being bad feels pretty good, huh?”-Criminal
not have to be confined to solely dresses. Even then, it was not entirely socially acceptable. Even during the mid20th century, at some hotels and schools, women still needed to wear dresses or skirts, or they would not be allowed in. If this happened now, it would be sexist and discriminating. Only in the past 50 years, have pants become the norm for women in America. Both America and society have benefited from rebels and their work. Without rebels, women would not have the freedom to dress as they please, even our most formal dances would not be allowed, and the U.S. would not exist. Rebels around the world, I thank you!
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March 31, 2015
‘Belize Navidad’ Love, Kim By Kim Do
“Let’s go somewhere”. Three simple words that undeniably arouse any adventurer. It is these three
scent of jungle air. But even as I boarded the plane, my sleeves were still stained with trepidation. Should I have just stayed home? Sipped on hot cocoa, continued with my plebeian routine?
Author Kim Do leaps above Xunantunich Mayan Ruins in Belize.
words that ignite every physical sense. It was these three words that elicited a smirk with the response, “What about Belize?” Well, what about Belize? Maybe it was because I was attracted to the way the syllables rolled off my tongue, or perhaps because I lusted for the
Surely, it was the safer route: an insect-free, sweat-less winter. But there was something about my jitters that also forged an appetite for adventure and enticement. So there I was, sleepless in SFO, preparing to embark on my expedition to Belize Bordering the southeastern
tip of Mexico and northern edge of Honduras lies this remote country. While relatively miniature in size, its geographical wonders are not to be underestimated. This Central American country offers an invitation to ancient Mayan ruins, clear skies, and a flavorful taste of the native cuisines. When I arrived in San Ignacio that late December morning, I was welcomed by the mascara-smudging humidity and amiable locals. “Belize Navidad!” they cried. How they managed to crack a smile in the 90° degree weather still leaves me pondering. My sojourn embodied four days in San Ignacio, where I explored the renowned Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave, caressed baby iguanas, and held 2,000 year old artifacts. The next three days were spent in Placencia, where I bid farewell to my final seconds of 2014 and leapt into 2015 by enjoying the While exploring the No’ Och cave and Xunantunich ruins top my wildest experiences, the friendships I made during the excursions are most memorable. The backpackers came
Actually, I Prefer ‘Your High-ness’ By Jimmy Sran A common misconception today is that being six feet tall is a walk in the park. The fourteen percent of Americans that are six feet tall are the only people that understand the struggles I have in my everyday life. The burdens of height can leave me wishing to be four feet at times. Countless times, I have had to sit in uncomfortable positions in class to make sure people behind me have a good view of the board. Standing in the front of a group photo is also something I will never experience. Science has proven taller people also have slower
reflexes as the impulse takes longer to go through our bodies. I am deathly afraid of getting my head taken off by a chandelier or fan. My close life and death encounters with chandeliers and fans have given me a reflex to duck under them even if they are 9 or 10 feet in the air. Out of all the burdens, my biggest pet-peeve is people asking me if I play basketball or volleyball. Whenever I attended a social event, I am asked the same question, and I did not enjoy answering “no” because I receive an unwanted coach’s speech. Sitting at school lunch tables has also made life difficult as I collide knees with the person sitting in front of me. This usually leads to the awkward
comment, “You are tall”. I awkwardly respond “Thank you”. These awkward moments are why I do not attend as many social events as other kids my age. Another problem that I am scared of having is back problems, as I always have to hunch my back to be at the eye level of everyone else. Especially because some people in my family have back problems, at this rate I am bound to use a back brace. There are struggles and benefits with everything in life. Although being 6 feet tall can be difficult at times, I would not change who I am for anything. I am happy to be unique and in the rare fourteen percent that is over six feet tall.
Photo courtesy of Jimmy Sran UPA students who are at least six-feet tall gather in front of the Horton on March 12. From left to right: Sam Leath, Noah Sanborn, Stephen Tu, Ryan Barrett, Sai Sanchula, Jimmy Sran, Nerayo Tekie, Jonathan Hintsa, Avinash Singh, Kyle Jones
from as far as Munich, London, and Quebec and as close as Santa Rosa and Santa Barbara, and each one furthered passion for traveling through their own stories. They gave me memories cannot be captured in a photograph and laughter that cannot be reproduced. My uncle inspired me to be curious about others. Brazil-bound 21 year old Halli cultivated a confidence in me I didn’t know was possible. British entrepreneur Aysha was living proof that solo female travel is possible. Switzerland-based globetrotter Jeff helped me realize that materials cannot bring me any amount of happiness. I discovered meaningful friendships, found my inner shyness, and frankly, realized that my body does not respond well to bug bites. These are the new qualities you gain—the moments that help you grow, conquering your fears and conquering the world. As descendants of nomadic people, moving and traveling have and will always be an essential part of our being. But traveling is more than the idea of being in a new environment— it’s the opportunity to grow.
You’ll face challenges abroad that are incomparable to those encountered at home. Your limits by meeting non-English speaking Creoles. You’ll find yourself thinking second guessing your decisions as you climb the 30 feet boulders in slippery Tevas. Whether or not this illustrious country will make its way onto your bucket list, I have one recommendation to fulfill your life: travel. At first, it will leave you speechless then transform you into a story teller.
Photo courtesy of Kim Do Author Kim Do takes a selfie with a Norman lizard in Belize.
Ying and Yang of Siblings
By Neha James If you have a younger sibling, chances are at some point in your life you’ve wished to be an only child, or wondered why your parents decided to procreate again in the first place. Ever since the birth of your sibling, the rules have been different for the both of you. They say don’t hate the player; hate the game, but it’s pretty hard not to dislike the player in this case. It seems as though your parents are more strict with you than with your sibling. Complete your chores and limited cell phone privileges are a few you’ll probably recognize. If you even dared to disobey, you would face the consequences. But your sibling is not subjected to the horrors of strict rules and punishment, and seems to get away with nearly everything, ranging from leaving chores unfinished to getting special treatment. You know for a fact that favoritism runs deep in families everywhere, and unfortunately the odds are not in your favor. Not only do you receive the shorter end of the stick, it’s a given that you have to deal with incessant pestering. You would think that’s the worst of it, but once they surpass the clingy phase, they enter the moody pre-teen stage. First, you’re glad there’s no one knocking on your bedroom door asking you if you wanna build a snowman, but soon you’re the one getting a door slammed in your face. Arguments tend to be a normal oc-
Photo courtesy of Neha James Neha and Amit James playing together as toddlers.
currence, even over the smallest of problems. Why does he take so long in the bathroom? Why does she borrow your clothes without asking? You’re constantly wondering how someone so inconsiderate shares your genes. Although, with all the brother and sister banter, you tend to have witty comebacks and vicious insults in your arsenal. But once siblings reach your level of sophistication, you have a friend for life. They will be there to volunteer as tribute and intervene when your parents are lecturing you about grades or GPAs or colleges. They will be your trustworthy friend who has witnessed most of your embarrassing moments and have vowed to keep them under lock and key. They will even have your back in an argument against your parents. Most importantly, you have someone who will support and love you through everything, so maybe a sibling isn’t so terrible in the long run.
New Indie Band Drops Funky Album “Rose”
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A&E
Volume 4, Issue 1
By Lucy Yepiz
tween high school and college, and the challenges that come with The Front Bottoms are it. It is filled with symbolism and an upcoming indie band. Their no matter who is listening, it is first tracks were uploaded to the Internet completely raw, but their impossible to not relate to some new EP (Extended Play, a record- part of the song. “Jim ing with too many songs Bogart” is arguto be a single, ably the most but not enough saccharine to be an alsong, with subbum), Rose, tly sweet lyrics completely reand soft acousmastered the songs in a new, tic throughout riveting way the track. It tells without losing Photo courtesy of Bar None the story of Uytheir original Records chich’s unrevibe. The Album art for the quited love and Re“Rose” album. Photo courmoves every lisleased in May tesy of Bar None Records of 2014 and tener. named after “Awkward lead singer Matthew Uychich’s Conversations” brings the engrandma, the album features a collection of six of her favorite tire album to a close, revolving songs from the band’s early days around the slow demise of a reand is an elegant, noteworthy por- lationship on the verge of failure. My personal favorite, the song’s trait of her. The songs are upbeat melody is just right and the lyrwith a lot of acoustic guitar and ics convey the frustration and exsome brass that adds a unique haustion that everyone has felt at sound. The offbeat lyrics provide some point. a stark contrast to the intimate Each song is better than look at his experience with brothe next. The witty, moving lyrken relationships. The album opens with ics, catchy melodies, and distinct “Flying Model Rockets,” an in- vocals seem to be constants in the stant crowd pleaser; lip syncing band’s work. and home-alone-dancing always The Front Bottoms emensues. It is the most upbeat song body late summer nights with on the album and though listeners might sing along, the lyrics are friends and listeners can not help so cryptic, they probably will not but get immersed in the whimsiunderstand what they are singing cal songs. at all. The ambiguous lyrics al“Lipstick Covered Magnet” and “Be Nice to Me” are the low listeners to fill in the blanks more punk-geared songs of the with their own experiences and EP. Their fast-paced beats and dy- create relatable songs regardless namic musical transitions paired of who is listening. with lyrics hinting toward exisOverall, The Front Bottential crisis give way to vibrant, toms offer outstanding, original layered sounds. “12 Feet Deep,” the music that begs for more attenfan favorite of the EP, revolves tion. Find their music on iTunes around the awkward period be- or Google Play.
Photo courtesy of Masashi Kishimoto The main characters of the early arcs of the Naruto manga and anime series by Masashi Kishimoto are pictured together with the protagionist, Naruto Uzimaki pictured center.
Welcome to the Wonderful World of Anime By Paj Thao It’s hard to miss the extensive impact of modern Asian culture worldwide. With a broad range of influence and uniqueness that easily captures one’s attention, not only is the culture known for its technology and intellect, but for its music (like J-pop and Kpop), dramas, and other media and entertainment. One of the most popular aspects of students’ culture has reached the ears of each teenager at least once: Anime. Anime, simply put, is animation in a unique style that has developed since the early 20th century. Its roots are in Japan, but the style has spread to the culture of many other countries. It is often mistaken with its close cousin, manga, which are Japanese comics read from right to left. Many popular anime series have been in fact been adapted from manga series and even have their own video games and other merchandise. The reason why people have been attracted to the world of anime is not found on this outer shell, however. Like most television
shows or novels, there is a unique plot and character development in each series. The protagonist usually learns and changes as the story progresses. Those who aren’t familiar with anime and manga usually assume it consists of only one style or genre. This couldn’t be farther from the truth. Each anime or manga artist has a unique style of drawing -- not all mangaka draw their characters super realistic, or on the other side of the scale, superdeformed, or with overly huge eyes and colorful hair. Furthermore, anime is not a genre in itself; rather, it encompasses as many genres as you could imagine: action, sports, fantasy, mecha, “slice of life,” mystery, game-based, and dystopian, just to name a few. Many popular animes have a well-rounded combination of genres. They also weave inspiring, motivational concepts into their tales, along with comedy in just the right places. Common themes are friendship, romance, good versus evil, coming-of-age, and others, while both internal and external conflicts are addressed. There are usually multiple story arcs that lead to the
climax of a certain conflict, the struggle of the main character, and a demonstration of perseverance that allows him or her to overcome the enemy. One of the first series that might come to the mind of an experienced anime enthusiast is the classic Naruto, the wellknown and third best-selling manga series, by Masashi Kishimoto; it has been adapted into an anime and many video games. The series is about a young ninja named Naruto Uzumaki, who wants to become the leader of his village, motivated by loneliness as an outcast orphan. As the story progresses, comedy preludes conflict. Secrets about the past are revealed while enemies continue to appear before Naruto and his friends. Kishimoto first serialized Naruto in 1997 and the series closed in 2014. The manga won the prestigious Quill Award for Best Graphic Novel in 2006. When the elements of art and story are combined, a whole new and captivating world is created, one of countless which a reader or watcher can delve into and become immersed in.
cake from the pan, separate the cake into the two relatively-even layers. In order to achieve the flattest top surface for your cake, the cake should be assembled so that the flattest part of the cake is facing upwards and the rounded top that you leveled off should be facing downwards. The next step is to cover the cake in a base coat of either frosting or fondant. Fondant is a thick paste composed of sugar and water that forms a dough-like substance which can be rolled out, colored and placed over the exterior of a cake in lieu of frosting. Fondant is used in al-
most all professional cakes, as it provides a more flat, uniform surface to decorate on and is more aesthetically appealing, but many people prefer the taste of frosting to fondant. For frosting, I recommend store-bought frosting over buttercream icing (used primarily for decoration), as it is thinner and more easily spread without tearing the cake surface. The main strategy for frosting the exterior cake in order to best avoid mixing crumbs into the frosting is to apply a large quantity of frosting to the top center of the cake and spread it using a back and forth motion with a knife or straight spatula.
For decorating, I recommend the use of disposable pastry bags and cake decorating tips, metal tips inserted into the bags to shape the frosting as it is squeezed. The most useful, basic cake decorating tips are a round tip (primarily for lettering and dots), a star-shaped tip (used for stars, shells, and rosettes), and the leaf tip. Buttercream icing is ideal for decorating due to a thicker consistency than most storebought frostings.
UPA’s Own Cake Boss Decorates Delectable Desserts By Emily Massiello In this modern age of convenience, homemade cakes are becoming less and less common, despite the fact that they are cheaper, more meaningful, and with a few simple tips relatively easy to make more professionallooking. Preference for boxed or homemade cake mix and flavor of cake mix has little to no effect on the cake-decorating process; however, the pan used does affect the overall appearance of the finished product. To make a standard round birthday cake, two 9-inch by 1.5-inch cake pans (the most
common option), or one 9-inch by 3-inch cake pan can be used. The benefit of using one deeper cake pan and later cutting the cake in half over using two pans, despite this option requiring more time and effort, is that when the two layers of cake are stacked, the sides will line up straighter and more evenly. After the cake has been baked and has cooled sufficiently, level off the rounded top of the cake (or each layer) with a large bread knife or with a cake leveler, which can be purchased from most craft stores, and carefully remove the cake from the pan. If you used the single, deep pan, upon removing the
8 Campus Life
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March 31, 2015
Choose Wisely When Joining Clubs By Flavio Quintero During Club Day at UPA, students crowd around small tables to participate in one of the school’s biggest events of the year. Generally, UPA students are in it for the candy, balloons, and other various treats the clubs offer for signing up more so than the actual clubs themselves; it’s a choice between a Snickers bar offered by the Green Team, or the sublime chocolate cookies at the Speech and Debate stand. Joining a club at UPA is fairly simple. You could theoretically join every club the campus offers, but what good would that do? Clubs have numerous benefits that students at UPA do not take advantage of. Some pass them off — the nights spent working on a project or cramming for a test are already too much for them to handle — while others simply do not understand the need to take up any clubs out of disinterest. It is likely there is at least one club that interests each student on campus; students should find one at club day or ask their friends what clubs they have joined, but they should make sure the club interests them more than the people in it. Avoid joining a club because all of your friends have joined it. This would detract from
the one important aspect of joining clubs; meeting people who you might not have spoken to before joining. This helps you to find others with similar interests who could teach you something you did not know before joining.
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Avoid joining a club because all your friends have joined it.
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However, to truly gain the most from the club, you must be actively involved: attend every meeting, participate in every project, and try to take any leadership roles that are available while still balancing your academic and so-
cial life. The usefulness in involving yourself in clubs leads you to gain more knowledge on the subject that interests you in, knowledge that will be useful later in life. Speaking of your future, being in a club can be a great college application sweetener; showing colleges you have taken an interest in something, either through projects demonstrating your experience, community service, or internships resulting from the club. Make sure to remember that a dedication to clubs will be searched for by colleges, meaning that if you can stick to a club for years, following all of the above, the experience you will gain will be immeasurably useful in life, translating towards college and beyond. One last note; if there is a club you know nothing about, check it out, see if it is interesting, and consider joining it. It is entirely possible you will end up loving the club, and if not, opt out of it; no feelings will be hurt, and you can focus your time on another club instead. Go forth and join the club of your choosing, because you may end up running your own stand one day with new friends, new knowledge and free lollipops.
Fresh Face in French Class By Sydney Harder
Mariangela Parenti made her debut on the teaching scene at UPA at the beginning of the 2014 school year. She currently teaches all three levels of French classes. Parenti notes that she discovered her passion for teaching when she completed her Bachelor of Arts at the University of Bologna in Italy and recognized her “aspiration to help young people to make positive changes in their lives.” She continued her education at Indiana University and
University of San Francisco, acquiring an MA in Italian Studies and Comparative Literature, and a second MA in Education. When Parenti is not in the classroom, she can be found practicing yoga. “Yoga is a meditative activity that strengthens both the body and mind,” Parenti explained. She also enjoys traveling and discovering new places. While at UPA, Parenti hopes to inspire students to cultivate their interest in world languages and foreign cultures.
Photo by Eliana Batrez Mariangela Parenti poses with a French textbook.
Photo by Eliana Batrez Entreprenuer Ezquiel Olvera visits the Unidad Poder Academico club on Feb. 24
Seniors Complete Projects By Sabeeq Karim
With senior projects now behind them, the seniors can finally relax from the stress-inducing work that kept them busy from second semester of last year. The project has brought many fun and enjoyable experiences for the students as they got to choose the topic for their project. Senior Gulshan Chachal did his senior project on how technology has increased cheating throughout assignments. Chachal and partner Huy Ngo chose the project because of how it was of special interest to them. “We’re always fascinated with how the moral debate between whether using online resources was more beneficial or harmful to students,” Chachal said. “I loved going to the library and doing all the book research, but I also really enjoyed working with people to fulfill the community service portion of the project.” said senior Josh De la Paz, who did his project on the homeless in San Jose. Putting the enjoyment aspect aside, there were many difficulties that came along for the students. “The biggest difficulty was trying to find an accurate sample size to make sure we covered all molds of student,” Chachal said. The ultimate goal of Chachal’s project was to bring the awareness of cheating to the school in an effort to minimize the problem. Finishing the project has not only brought relief to Chachal,
but also taught him important lessons throughout the process. “The most heart-pumping part, though, was in the nights leading up to the due date: I had found a few new sources that were really good, and I got super giddy.” Josh De la Paz said. The workload on the project gave seniors a snapshot of what they would have to face when completing assignments in college. “This was probably the longest-term project I have ever worked on, and I’m not sure I quite understood the magnitude of it when my partner and I started working on it.” admitted De la Paz. For many seniors like Chachal, the project helped show students the amount of work that comes with completing projects in college. “It’s opened my eyes to many of the concerns and habits of classmates, and gives me a broader perspective of what to expect from my peers in college,” Chachal said. For De la Paz, his project helped him “understand how to space out work between long due dates.” The senior project gives students a taste of what it is like to do projects that require heavy extensive research and time. The students were able to choose their own topic and find a way to relate their project back to UPA in terms of improving the school. “Through senior projects, we have made some good strides to make UPA better,” said Sandra Trotch, advisor of juniors and seniors.
“I would wish for Jack Gilinsky to be my boyfriend.”
“To become a Calvin Klein underwear model.”
Saron Moges, senior
Maria Arballo, junior
“If I had one wish, I would wish for unlimited pizza.”
Alan Martino, sophomore
“Equality for everyone.”
Veronica Orozco, freshman
Amrit Kaur, 8th Grade
Anant Sherwal, 7th grade
Squawk Talk: If you had one wish, what would you wish for?
“If the Friends cast could continue the show.”
“I would wish for world peace and for everyone to make a difference.”