In a world dictated by our scholastic responsibilities and important extracurricular activities, we don’t always have the time or energy to care for our minds and bodies. To combat the difficulty of managing the complexities of high school life, the Vanguard Review staff has named this installment our Health and Wellness issue.
With Valentine’s Day approaching, we decided to focus on the meaning and execution of healthy relationships, both romantic and platonic, seen on page 12 and 13. In relation to physical health, in Sara, Charlie and Susie’s stories, they share the aspects of recovery, sports drinks and sleep, so if you are struggling with an injury or having energy problems, check out what professionals had to say in their stories. As someone who sprained my ankle the morning of Winter Glitter, I’m definitely going to pay attention to what yoga instructor Kim Damm told Sara about recovery.
Concerning the 12-hour ban on TikTok, Generation Z’s favorite app (and the resuming of chronic doomscrolling), Madelyn covers the basics, details and official statements in her news story on page.
I know for a lot of people, it was the longest 12 hours of their lives, but the real surprise is how many phones with TikTok already downloaded are going for on the Internet.
If you find yourself spending date night at the same old Whataburger or Sonic, take your date (or yourself) somewhere unique with Sara’s suggestions on page 15. I know I want to go check out Fuzz Lab for sure, even just by myself.
Selina highlights Jon Esparza, our senior who was recently spotlighted in the Wacoan, gives crucial advice about managing academics and life while throwing in some study tips sure to help the rest of us.
Get an inside look at a day in the life of a fellow student with ADHD and its effects in the classroom. Junior Harper Peel very openly shares her experience with Grace and we hope it inspires everyone to think about what others may go through each day.
Apart from the health and wellness of our own students, we would also like to call attention to those suffering in Los Angeles due to the fires and any effects following them. Grace caught up with alumni Brooks Indergard and Danae Simmons and got exclusive first-hand accounts of how they experienced the wildfires and their effects.
FROM THE COURTROOM
The Mock Trial team earned second place in the Region 12 Mock Trial tournament on Saturday, Feb. 8 at the Baylor University School of Law. The team will be advancing to the State tournament in March, along with the first place team, GWCHE (Homeschool). The Vikings defeated Waco High School in the semifinal round.
Ellen Weaver earned an Outstanding Advocate award.
Viking Mock Trial team: (Back row) Ellen Weaver, Kaydon Daniel, Woojin Lee, Asa Warner, Matthew Pendley, Cynthia Weaver (front row) Mikayla Deleon, Abby Carrigan, Caroline Abel, Claire Williams, Willow Alexander
Aria Cleveland Co-Editor-in-Chief
THANK YOUR LUCKY STARS
BY VANGUARD REVIEW STAFF
Are you one of those students who sits anxiously in bed, waiting for the email that says school is canceled? When you finally receive the email that says school is just delayed, disappointment covers your face as you realize you still have to attend school. The next day, you stroll reluctantly through the doors to find other people complaining about being at school.
Or are you one of those students who constantly sign out early or leave class saying you are “going to the bathroom” but end up roaming the halls or going to other teachers' classrooms?
But what some people don’t realize is that the ability to attend school is a privilege, all the grumbling and moaning aside. This month, students will begin to fill out their course selection forms and parents are asked to make a payment to secure their spot for next year.
The Vanguard Review editorial staff believes students should consider all the advantages they are offered through private school education, as well as the time and money that is either valued or wasted, depending on their attitude toward attending school.
There are 365 days in a year, and out of those 365 days we are at school for 169 of them, meaning we are learning new material for 46% of the year. While that may sound like a lot, many countries,
such as England, Switzerland, Germany, Russia, and Japan, have school for 220-240 days according to research done by UNI ScholarWorks.
When attending Vanguard, our parents are paying $16,800 for our education. One mod at Vanguard costs $12.50, which adds up to $100 a day. If we have one unexcused absence for the day, that is $100 out of our education, which means we are throwing away $100 of our parents' hard-earned money for each absence.
Some families make many sacrifices for their children to attend Vanguard because they know that their students are worth the money they spend on their education. One student told the Vanguard Review that his mom works four jobs, so she can afford to send him to Vanguard.
There are many opportunities for students, including non-exclusive sports and meaningful connections with teachers. When we don’t show up to class or say we are going to the bathroom but are just wandering around, we are wasting the time they gave up to be here to teach us.
While not everyone on the Vanguard Review staff agrees with every point made, and we realize that there are circumstances in which every student may not choose where to continue their education, we encourage the student body to consider how grateful we should be for our education. If we skip, do not pay attention or waste our teachers' time, we need to step back and think about what we have.
As Oprah Winfrey said: “Be thankful for what you have; you'll end up having more. If you concentrate on what you don't have, you will never have enough.”
TIKTOK ON THE CLOCK
TikTok ban lasts 24 hours, ignites debate between national security and free speech
BY MADELYN KIM CO-EDITOR IN CHIEF
The TikTok ban on January, 19, 2025 — that after causing much concern for Gen Z and others only lasted 24 hours — has ignited a nationwide debate on weighing two critical values: freedom of speech and national security.
On VR Jan/Feb poll, the students reflected on the ban’s possible impact — 57.8% responded that the ban would not affect them at all. However, 17% stated that their daily routines would be significantly disrupted, while 14.1% said it would moderately affect them, and 11.1% said that it would have a slight impact.
“When it first got banned I was upset about it but I was at a volleyball tournament so there wasn't much I could do about it and I deleted it,” said freshmen Holly Haberle. “Then it came back 12 hours later and I realized I couldn't re-download it and I was really upset about it.”
TikTok is certainly a significant part of many teenager’s lives. According to the VR poll, 8.9% use the app for 30 minutes a day, 11% spent about an hour on it, and 20% answered that they spend more than two hours daily.
On January 19, 2025, TikTok users found out the app had been officially banned by the U.S. government when they logged in to scroll through their FYP and saw this message.
“It's definitely different now,” freshmen McKenna Lannen said. “The algorithm is very different and it's showing me different videos and stuff. I'm getting a lot more political videos. When you comment on something that isn't pro Trump, it can be deleted automatically.”
Haberle, as someone who watches TikTok daily in the morning while getting ready, also mentioned that it is affecting her daily life since she is not nearly as entertained as before.
Beyond the personal impact, students' thoughts on government regulation of social media varied. A total of 25.2% of students
"The key concern is that TikTok could collect user data that might be accessible to certain foreign entities."
- Dr. Pablo Rivas, Assistant Professor of Computer Science, Baylor University
agreed or strongly agreed that apps like TikTok should be regulated by the government, while 26.7% disagreed, and 18.5% strongly disagreed.
“I definitely think it's a good idea because it is exposing kids to things they shouldn't be seeing and apparently China was stealing our information,” Haberle said. “But it's not great for people who had it before because they were using it for things in their everyday lives.”
The ban arose from the issue of national security concerns, with debate over TikTok that is rooted in its ownership by ByteDance, a company based in China. The Chinese government could compel ByteDance to share user data or censor content, posing potential security risks to the U.S. government and citizens. Cybersecurity experts have expressed concern that the app could be used to gather sensitive information or influence public opinion through manipulated algorithms. (Banning TikTok: Turning point for U.S. data security or threat to free
speech? – Ohio University newspaper)
“The key concern is that TikTok could collect user data that might be accessible to certain foreign entities. While most social platforms gather user information, the worry here is who can access that data and how it might be used for influence or surveillance,” said Dr. Pablo Rivas, Assistant Professor of Computer Science at Baylor University.
However, people argue that banning TikTok violates their freedom of speech, the crucial part of democracy.
While the ban itself lasted less than a day, the incident of the TikTok ban challenged a broader issue: the balance between safeguarding national security and protecting freedom of speech. Furthermore, this issue raises another important question for the users: Is this a one-time thing, or could there be other bans on TikTok in the future—or other social media platforms.
Rivas also mentioned that there is evidence that TikTok collects a range of information much like other apps, however, the general public does not have absolute proof of malicious intent.
“Banning TikTok could lead to broader discussions about national security and foreign-owned platforms,” Rivas said. “It might make it easier to block other apps in the future based on similar concerns, which then raises questions about where we draw the line.”
An opposing side of the ban argues that restricting access to TikTok violates the freedom of speech, which is a fundamental democratic value. Rivas suggests that lawmakers could require stronger data protection measures, better cybersecurity, instead of a total ban in order to address security issues while still respecting free expression.
Less than 24 hours after the TikTok app went dark, users receive this message and were able to scroll once again. However, the app remains unavailable on the App Store for now.
CITY UP IN FLAMES
Alums living in LA share first-hand stories of the wildfires
BY GRACE BERGERSON REPORTER
Wildfires erupted in the Palisades, a famous neighborhood in Los Angeles on January 7 — and within a week two more fires engulfed surrounding neighborhoods, including the Palisades, Eaton and Hughes. The raging fires spread quickly and forced mass evacuations — and 28 people lost their lives.
As of February 4, 2025, 57,528 acres have burned with 16,255 structures destroyed, according to the California Department of Forestry & Fire Protection. After nearly a month, the fires are finally mostly contained.
throughout the week — I was able to get out more, and that's when I saw the amount of smoke that was dominating the sky. Somehow I never drove past anywhere where I could see any of the fires, even though I live right between the two major ones, but the smoke [could] be seen anywhere in LA.”
"My roommate and I taped our windows because we weren't sure if they were going to explode."
Two recent grads — Danae Simmons (‘24) and Brooks Indergard (‘21) — were directly affected.
Indergard, who had recently moved to Burbank to pursue acting, was right in the middle of the action, but did not know how severe the situation would become.
“At first, while the fires were something to take notice of, they were far enough away from me that I didn't think that they would impact me much at all,” Indergard said. “I heard about the fires as soon as they broke out through my aunt, who lives a little south of LA She texted me saying ‘Congrats on your first major California fire.’”
But as the strong winds picked up and the fires spread, Indergard had to take action.
“My roommate and I taped our windows because we weren't sure if they were going to explode with how violently the wind was shaking the panes,” he said.
Despite being in the middle of major fires, Indergard said not everyone chose to evacuate until they absolutely had to.
“Everyone's had different approaches,” Indergard said. “My roommate had a to-go bag ready, but he's stayed there this whole time.”
Indergard said he had already not been going out much due to the Santa Ana Winds, to which some experts attribute the spreading of the fires.
“And I mean so extreme that parts of my apartment complex's roof were blown off, parts of trees had been blown into our street that you had to drive around,” he said. “When the wind died down some — it would come and go in bursts
- Brooks Indergard, '21
Santa Ana winds occur when air from a region of high pressure over the dry, desert region of the southwestern U.S. flows westward towards low pressure located off the California coast, according to the National Weather Service. It creates incredibly dry winds which head west in the cooler months of the year. They typically occur from September through May. Such strong winds can cause extreme property damage, and they significantly contribute to the spread and severity of wildfires.
Simmons, a freshman at Pepperdine University in Malibu, was still home for Christmas break.
“I was definitely scared and pretty concerned,” Simmons said upon first hearing about the fires. “Pepperdine had just experienced another fire early in December. I was really sad because the places that were in danger were places I was familiar with and loved.”
As soon as the fire began, Pepperdine sent its students daily updates regarding the status of the fires and its proximity to the campus, Simmons said. As a response to the fires, Pepperdine released shift school online.
“Four days before our scheduled return and two days before my flight was when Pepperdine made the decision that we would do online classes for the first week of the semester,” Simmons said.
"Four days before our scheduled return and two days before my flight was when Pepperdine made the decision that we would do online classes for the first week of the semester."
- Danae Simmons, '24
Simmons said many of her fellow students have been directly impacted.
“As of now, around 50 Pepperdine students have lost their homes or places where they were renting,” she said. “It’s definitely very sad and difficult for them. Several of my friends who live in California could see the
flames and smell the smoke so that was scary for them.”
Being on campus when a December fire occurred was traumatic and scary, Simmons said.
“I’m grateful that when the January fire broke out I was at home, said. “It’s extremely sad and difficult to see the destruction from afar. I’m looking forward to going back and helping in the recovery efforts in any way that I can.”
The smoke has caused a toxic environment for nearly everyone in the area. Indergard said his worry was and still is more the risk the smoke inhalation posed than his apartment burning down.
“On the day that we evacuated, one of my friends saw a statistic that said that just breathing the air outside is equal to smoking half a pack of cigarettes everyday,” he said. “I don't know when I'll be going back yet.”
Simmons has since returned to Malibu to attend classes as usual.
“No buildings were damaged, but the mountains and the hills around Pepperdine were scorched,” said Simmons. “It was pretty burnt, so it was kind of surreal.”
Views of the Eaton fire from a backyard in Monrovia, California. Photos courtesy of Beth Hammann
A D AY IN THE LIFE
BY GRACE BERGERSON REPORTER
Disorganization, moving from thought to thought, losing items and having outbursts of energy can seem like average human experiences, but people with ADHD face each of these challenges amplified to the extreme — every single day.
ADHD is that it's not just being hyper and not being able to focus,” junior Harper Peel said. “While those are a big part of ADHD, hence the name being Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, it is these symptoms along with many more that happen so frequently that they impede someone's daily life.”
to the Vanguard Student Poll, 94.8% of students know someone with ADHD. Many people may have heard what ADHD is, but they do not really understand the effects of it. It can affect thought patterns and can be very hard to navigate around.
to know about ADHD is that it's not just being hyper and not being able to focus,” said Harper Peel. “While those are a big part of ADHD, hence the name being Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, it is these symptoms along with many more that happen so frequently that they impede someone's daily life.
Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a condition that affects a person’s focus, impulses, and energy levels. According to the CDC, there are several types of ADHD. Each of the types focuses on a different issue.
predominantly hyperactiveimpulsive presentation, but people can also have predominantly inattentive presentation and combined presentation types of ADHD. Each person has a completely different
Junior Harper Peel shares her experience
experience with the disorder.
“People diagnosed with ADHD may have trouble focusing or paying attention, staying organized, or sitting still,” Gaby DuPree, school counselor and director of student/ faculty wellness, said. “ADHD presents differently between boys and girls. Boys tend
“For example, students with ADHD are more likely to think tangentially than their peers, which can have great creative benefits,” DuPree said.
Peel said she was diagnosed with ADHD in the spring of 7th grade.
often feel different or less than their neuronormative peers, but they have their own ‘superpowers.’
“Aside from just being hyper, I was really disorganized,” she said. “Transitioning from an elementary school workload to Vanguard's in seventh grade my ADHD became evident.”
According to the CDC, ADHD is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders in children. Though symptoms can continue throughout adulthood, it most commonly is first noticeable in young kids.
A day in the life of Harper Junior Harper Peel shared her experience with ADHD by documenting how she navigates a typical school day.
ADHD is so much more than just being hyper all of the time. Disorganization is a very common struggle when it comes to ADHD.
“I would forget my backpack, homework, binders, pencil bag, etc. at home,” Peel said. “I noticed it was taking me a lot longer on assignments than my classmates, even though I understood the assignment just as well as them.”
The disorganization of it can be exhausting, Peel added.
“It takes me longer to do everyday tasks than someone without ADHD,” Peel
Photo by Callie Harper
HEALTH
HOW TO SUPPORT A FRIEND WITH AD HD
with a learning difference that's often misunderstood
said. “There’s always so much going on in my brain and so many different trains of thought that it can be overwhelming.”
To accommodate the struggle to focus, many students with ADHD are allowed extra time on quizzes and tests.
“The accommodation in my 504 plan for my ADHD is extra time on tests, quizzes, in class essays, finals, and standardized tests,” said Peel. “Extra time really helps me because its very rare that I finish a test, quiz, essay, or final in the normal amount of allotted time.”
routines and organization skills, medication which helps the brain send and receive messages better so staying focused is easier, creating healthy habits such as eating well and exercising, and school accommodations.
Medication is also an option, according to the CDC.
"There's always so much going on in my brain and so many different trains of thought that it can be overwhelming."
Students with disabilities are protected by law under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, ensuring that all students have fair access to education, DuPree said.
“One accommodation offered at Vanguard is extended time on tests which helps students process information, stay focused and complete their best work without feeling overwhelmed or rushed,” DuPree said.
But the constant feelings of stress and over stimulation can feel like a prison. There is no escaping the constant thoughts which can be incredibly overstimulating.
“It’s like being stuck in a messy room all day with five different songs playing, a TV on, fan on, and multiple people talking,” said Peel.
Peel said this is because people with ADHD struggle to tune out outside sounds such as the ticking of a clock or people whispering in class.
ADHD can also greatly contribute to forgetfulness. With the many thoughts, it is really easy to forget items around the house. Disorganized processing can cause problems when storing information.
“Another thing made more difficult by ADHD is a lack of short term memory and forgetfulness,” said Peel. “There have been times where I have placed something important I need to bring to school that day directly by the front door and still left it at home.”
Sometimes it can also be walking into a room and forgetting why you entered.
“I will walk into a room three times before I remember what my purpose of walking in was,” said Peel.
Common treatments for ADHD include behavior therapy, DuPree said, to help learn
— Harper Peel '26
“I take medicine,” said Peel. “It definitely helps a lot and it makes it much easier for me to focus.”
Despite medicine being helpful, there are many side effects that come along with it.
“Some days it works better than others and it also has negative side effects like increased anxiety, loss of appetite and difficulties falling asleep at night,” said Peel. It is particularly bad when Peel forgets her medicine.
“My ADHD is pretty bad, so whenever I don't take my medicine it's almost impossible for me to pay attention,” said Peel. “The worst is whenever I forget to take my meds on the day of a test or in-class essay. I typically have to re-read the questions or passages five times before I actually read it with my brain and not just my eyes, and I'm far more prone to making simple mistakes.”
ADHD can feel very difficult in relationships, but sometimes it can bring people together.
“Before I got medicated for ADHD it affected my relationship with my teachers because I was disruptive in class,” said Peel. “One of my best friends Townlin Starr and I bonded a lot over having ADHD when we were becoming friends. I think a lot of them find my hyper side entertaining, although I'm sure sometimes they feel it's a little too much. My ADHD is a part of who I am and my friends wouldn't have become friends with me if they didn't like how I act because of it.”
Friends of students who have ADHD can support their peers by being kind and understanding, and reminding themselves that their friend is doing the best they can, DuPree said.
“ADHD is very common among children and teens aged 3-17," she said, "so remembering to be kind makes a difference in helping your peers feel supported and included."
Educate Yourself:
An uninformed belief of people with ADHD is that they are lazy, dumb or don’t care. Nothing could be further from the truth.
Show Empathy
If a friend had a broken foot, you wouldn’t get angry because they couldn’t walk faster, would you? Your friend doesn’t want to let you down, even though it may seem they are just being thoughtless. Their brain just works in a different way.
Encourage but don't Enable You are a friend, not your friend’s parent.
Don't take things personally: People with ADHD don’t want to let you down, or ignore your needs. Their neurodiversity is not about you.
Keep a Sense of Humor: Everyone has their quirks. Make a joke and move forward when you can.
Source: ADHD Online
Reporter’s note: This story on ADHD was written by someone with ADHD. In my experience, ADHD makes school work incredibly difficult. I procrastinate just about everything — including this story — to the last possible second. Sometimes I find it is hard for others to understand me as I talk quickly and think differently from most people. It’s not an excuse — just a reality. I hope telling Harper’s story can help other kids understand a little more about their peers with learning differences. - GB
GET YOUR
Dopamine gives that 'feel good' sensation even when we may be doing something
BY EMILY VANCLEAVE GUEST REPORTER
As you sit with the long list of assignments to complete for school tomorrow, you feel stressed and even worried. You wish for something, anything that feels better. Instinctually, you reach for one thing you know will help you escape and make you feel happy again — your phone. Between social media and connection with friends, you start to feel good again. And you don't want it to end.
What causes this? The major brain chemical dopamine may be the key.
Senior Hutson Harper shares a common experience among students when trying to work on tough assignments.
“I do think I struggle with using my phone when I'm trying to do work, and it often leads to me either staying up late or having a lot of avoidable stress — for an assignment I could've easily completed a while ago,” he said.
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter, or brain messenger, that helps regulate motor control and executive function and links feelings of pleasure to those of motivation, according to Mental Health America. More specifically, dopamine acts as the reward signal for novelty or something new and exciting.
“When you do something that feels good, you get a burst of dopamine,” Jon Flynn, Ph.D., an assistant teaching professor of neuroscience at Rice University, said. “If you expect to get a reward, then you don’t get as much [dopamine] as if you don't expect to get it.”
There also stands a difference between wanting something and liking it. Dopamine does not cause your body to enjoy doing something, like exercising, for example. Rather, it acts as a motivator, and you want to do it again.
“Many people enjoy exercising, but they
don't really want to exercise when they're on the couch,” Flynn said. "But once you get up and [move], you [think], ‘This is fun.'”
Though dopamine is essential to natural bodily functions, it can also play a role in personal productivity and engagement in activities.
Scrolling through social media is one way students are affected by dopamine production. Feeds — especially containing short-form content — are designed to hold your attention and keep you on the app. Every time you watch a video or see an image you like, dopamine is released. The pleasure gained from this interaction causes your brain to desire more; thus, you keep watching and keep scrolling.
Junior Owen Roos said he experiences the addictive nature of scrolling, as eventually it “usually makes [him] feel degraded and overstimulated.”
amount of dopamine in the brain, he said, “it does interrupt some of the chains of behaviors that get dopamine.”
“I think that it is just an addict quitting their habit,” he said.
Though taking a step away from devices and feeds is important to breaking
“I do think I struggle with using my phone when I'm trying to do work, and it often leads to me either staying up late or having a lot of avoidable stress."
- Hutson Harper, senior
“When it's late at night and I'm tired and get distracted by my phone, social media does motivate me to keep going, leading me away from the sleep I need,” Roos said.
There is novelty in how feeds are structured. Because you cannot predict the reward, the result is a variable reward schedule that gives bursts of dopamine at every new item, as observed by Flynn.
You may have seen online a method to combat and break bad habits known as a “dopamine detox,” in which you deprive yourself of certain pleasurable activities for a period, notably digital devices and social media.
According to Peter Grinspoon, MD, of Harvard Health Publishing, a so-called “dopamine fast” intends to encourage individuals to find simpler and more natural pleasures to “regain control over our lives” and general happiness.
“When you do something that feels good, you get a burst of dopamine.”
- Jon Flynn, PhD assistant teaching professor of neuroscience, Rice University
Flynn offered another scientific perspective to this strategy, suggesting that it not be referred to as a “detox” or “fast.” Because it does not actually lower the overall
distracting habits, starting healthy habits is equally necessary. Setting aside devices for some time each day and engaging in offline recreation can improve both mental and physical health.
However, these effects may end up causing positive change.
“Sometimes certain videos on social media can motivate me to get off my phone or inspire me to pursue a specific task,” Roos said.
THE BRIGHT SIDE
One of the best activities you can engage in is consistent exercise, as it can improve your overall brain health, including reducing anxiety and depression, according to the American Psychological Association. It not only increases the dopamine and serotonin your brain produces, but physical activity also decreases levels of stress hormones. Even taking a walk daily can improve mental health as well.
Junior Marisa Kramolis said she enjoys spending time outside after school.
“I think that taking walks helps to avert my mind from my busy everyday life,” she said. “It helps me to be able to take a step
DAILY DOSE
something that's not so good. Here's how to get it from a positive place.
away and focus on myself and destress.”
Having a hobby is also shown to improve mental health and wellbeing. According to neuroscience professor Ciara McCabe from the University of Reading in England, engaging in a pleasurable hobby, such as reading, making art, playing an instrument, crafting, etc., stimulates the brain to release dopamine. The reward system will thus be initiated and you will feel motivated to continue the activity.
To junior Ezri Horton, engaging in her favorite activities such as color guard or tennis practice helps her to focus and be motivated.
is self-regulating but can be thrown off-balance, most often in an unhealthy brain. As stated by Cleveland Clinic, injury to the brain’s dopamine receptors or regions that produce dopamine can affect this balance. There is also a link between low dopamine levels and many mental health conditions. Those experiencing anhedonia — a loss of interest or pleasure in things — can especially benefit from making time to enjoy hobbies.
GET MORE OF THE GOOD STUFF
There are many other natural ways to maintain balanced dopamine levels to assist with motivation, according to Mental Health America.
Foods rich in the amino acid L-Tyrosine that is converted into dopamine, such as poultry, dairy, avocados, bananas, pumpkin and sesame seeds and soy, are beneficial. Also helpful are Omega-3, magnesium, B6 and other vitamins. Though eating generally provides a burst of dopamine, regularly eating sugary and fatty foods can damage dopamine pathways and lead to over-eating.
next day I am extremely unmotivated and don't want to do anything," he said. "It is so much easier to get distracted when I'm tired.”
Relaxing pastimes such as meditation and yoga can both calm the mind and increase dopamine production. Studies have shown that people with anxiety tend to have lower dopamine levels, and these activities are in many ways beneficial. Petting and playing with pets is also calming and boosts serotonin and dopamine.
Both Horton and Roos have their own
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter, or brain messenger, that helps regulate motor control and executive function and links feelings of pleasure to those of motivation.
- Mental Health America
Roos finds that both sweets and healthy foods help motivate him to finish a task or assignment.
“Tasty foods like candy and sweets can often motivate me to finish a task while healthy foods can give me a sense of responsibility that helps in finishing a task,” Roos said.
“I get to do something I love and then I'll be able to sit down and do everything I need to do.”
- Ezri Horton, junior
“I get to do something that I love, and then I’ll be able to sit down and do everything I need to do,” Horton said.
Reduced dopamine levels can also cause difficulties in everyday life, especially for students. The dopaminergic system
Ample hours (7-9) of sleep nightly may be difficult to attain as a busy student, but it is key to maintaining balanced dopamine levels. Sleep deprivation can damage dopamine receptors, causing your brain to produce too much, possibly leading to impulsive behavior, aggression, and irritability.
Lack of sleep proves to only have negative effects on students. Harper explained.
“Whenever I don't get a lot of sleep the
pets that bring them much joy. Horton’s cat Olive “loves to sit with [her] while [she works] on homework.”
Roos notices significant mood changes with his dogs.
“Cuddling and playing with my dogs has definitely reduced stress and given me a lot of happiness,” he said.
A perhaps unconsidered method is performing random acts of kindness. When you do something kind for someone, you get a boost of dopamine known by researchers as a “helper’s high.” Not only does this motivate you, but it also improves the lives of others around you.
Keep in mind that self-care is important to reducing your stress and anxiety levels while maintaining a healthy balance of dopamine. Consider making time to exercise, maintain a healthy vitamin enriched diet, reduce your screen-time by setting app timers, stop doom-scrolling, find new activities or hobbies, volunteer and practice kindness.
Making Healthy Connections
How to know if you're in a sustainable relationship — and when you're not
BY JONAH SUTTON
One-fourth of women and ⅓ men will be in an unhealthy relationship at least once in their life, according to the One Love Foundation, a national nonprofit organization with the goal of ending relationship abuse by promoting education and awareness.
There are many ways relationships, either with romantic partners, friends or even family, can be difficult and unhealthy for one reason or another. But toxic — a term that is often used but not always understood — is a next level situation.
“In the field of psychology, we reserve the term ‘toxic’ to describe relationships that are severely detrimental/dangerous to someone’s physical and/or mental health and safety,” said Dr. Kathryn Fowler Sutton, a local psychologist and family therapist. Relationships can be toxic for many different reasons. One way a relationship could be toxic is if there is any form of abuse. Another common way a relationship is toxic if one person tries to control the other with jealousy or guilt tripping.
If someone is constantly critical, belittling or damaging their partner’s self-esteem, that’s toxic.
Unhealthy relationships can be detrimental and debilitating — even dangerous to someone’s physical or emotional wellness, Sutton said.
This is why it is a necessity to be able to build and sustain healthy relationships. To be able to have healthy relationships, teens need to know what they are and what they look like, but also how to build one.
someone is getting into a relationship it should be because they have found someone they want to last with, and that they think is a good partner. Your partner shouldn’t be the reason you are happy but they should amplify it and make it easier for you, she added.
The second level is how each person interacts within the relationship and with each other.
Sutton describes relationships on two different levels: The first is having two healthy people. Someone shouldn’t be getting into a relationship to fix themselves or make themselves feel better, she said. When
For a relationship to succeed, both people must be willing to grow and both must be willing to sacrifice and put the other person first.
Healthy Relationships are full of
“In my experience, the healthiest relationships begin with two people who are committed to being their healthiest selves independently before becoming a part of a relationship,” Sutton said. “That definitely doesn’t mean you or your partner need to be perfect. It just means that each person keeps working on themselves as individuals while still being a part of a relationship, and that the relationship never takes priority over individual wellness.”
There are many different ways to subdivide a relationship. A common way is by the couple’s action’s. The most common are communication, trust, honesty, and
Dr. Kathryn Fowler Sutton
Connections
1/4 women and 1/3 men will be in an unhealthy relationship at least once in their life
-One Love Foundation
Nearly 20% of students believe that honesty is the most important part of a relationship.
“It doesn't matter if it's a friendship or a dating relationship,” freshman August Ket said. “Being honest with our friends is so important because it prevents misunderstandings that could potentially harm the friendship/ relationship.”
Honesty allows the relationship to overcome obstacles. If one or both people have a problem, if they can’t communicate honestly no problems can be solved, only more can be created.
“It doesn't matter if it's a friendship or a dating relationship. Being honest with our friends is so important because it prevents misunderstandings that could potentially harm the friendship/ relationship,”
sophomore Ainslee Doughty said.
More than 46% of students when asked said that the most important part of a relationship is communication. Sutton agrees.
“I would rank communication number one, because I think all of the other ones probably depend upon how well you communicate with the other person.”
Without communication neither person would be able to tell if the other respected them. Honesty relies on communication too because if you don't communicate how would either of the people know the other is being honest, and why be honest if you don't even talk. When both people communicate openly and honestly it deepens the relationship and builds trust.
respect is the most important part of a relationship.
Sutton had ranked respect second as, “being able to respect the other person, showing that you're thinking about more than just your own needs in a relationship.”
Sutton said she believes that trust and honesty go hand in hand. You need to trust that the other is open and honest, and vise versa,
“If you trust the other person, you trust that they’re being honest with you, and then just being honest with another person implies that you trust them,” Sutton said.
At the end of the day, teens are growing and still learning what they want and need from a relationship.
“When you are a teenager, you are learning so much about yourself, which includes learning what you want out of a romantic relationship. There are so many strong emotions that can be involved with romantic relationships that it can sometimes feel confusing and overwhelming. I think it’s important to identify at least a couple of trustworthy
"We reserve the term 'toxic' to describe relationships that are severely detrimental/dangerous to someone's physical and/or mental health and safety."
adults in your life who you could trust to give you honest feedback when you feel like you’re struggling or confused. It never hurts to have other perspectives when you’re trying to make important decisions about relationships,” Sutton said. respect.
More than 12% of students said that
Unhealthy Relationships are full of
HEAL YOUR HEART & SOUL
Months or maybe even years of being in a toxic relationship is awful. That is why getting out of them is so important, but it's only half the battle, Sutton said. Many people don't realize but, you also need to heal from the relationship.
“It’s not really black and white, because you might really still like them," Sutton said.
How to heal:
• Express yourself. Don't keep feelings bottled up. Share your thoughts and feelings with a trusted friend or parent.
• Process your feelings. Think about how the relationship affected you but don't get overwhelmed.
• Forgive yourself. It's not your fault that you ended up in an unhealthy relationship, so practice selfforgiveness.
• Focus on the positive. Life will be good again. Think about the things you love to do and spend time with people who make you happy.
Source: One Love Foundation
Source: One Love Foundation
IGNITE THE POSSIBILITIES
Productivity explodes when you take small steps to form good habits and break the ones that are holding you back
BY ARIA CLEVELAND EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
An abandoned journal, two stray craft projects and at least three weeks of clothes strewn around the room. The one thing these all have in common is that they are habits. A habit of starting and not finishing something, messiness or a dwindling creative spark.
More than 93 percent of students said they have a bad habit, according to the January VR student poll. But what if you could turn it around and achieve efficiency and mental clarity along the way? The formation of a good habit and the breaking of a bad one are two sides of the same coin, and both are the focus of James Clear’s bestselling book, Atomic Habits.
While habits may just seem like something you are supposed to come up with at the beginning of each year, they make up a system of living in which a 1 percent increase each day leads to exponential personal growth according to the mathematical graph plotting the formula.
Freshman Sam Hunt improves his English skills every day by reading a popular newspaper.
“Ever since my mom got a subscription for the New York Times, I have played the Spelling Bee every day,” he said. “It is always fun to try to get to the highest level in the game, genius, and I also learn new words while playing it.”
A goal can only be achieved by how much work you put into it on a long-term basis, but the media and New Year’s resolutions mainly focus on just setting the goal which leads to false hopes of immediate results and discredits the actual system needed to achieve it. For example, if you set a goal to finish your homework the moment you get home, the success of it is tied to the smaller
choices you make surrounding it — like putting your phone on silent or in a different room or making sure your desk is cleared of possible distractions.
Sixth grader Reeve Sanders uses his imagination to make more boring habits seem enjoyable.
“I would try to make my boring habit fun by making it into a game,” Sanders said.
A key distinction in reaching goals is the mindset one employs, Clear teaches in his book. By using identity-related words to describe yourself as you practice your habits, you will associate yourself with someone who has already achieved it: a runner versus someone trying to run. In the Atomic Habits-adjacent app Atoms, each habit done is called a vote for the new identity you are trying to create. So, each time you complete a goal, like washing your face, you contribute to your new identity, a hygienic person.
your phone on top of the fridge, so you have to actively grab it. This concept is the first of four Clear came up with to make and break habits.
Forming good habits is no new deal, however, and Sanders tracks his habits and memories by writing them down daily.
“People do bad habits despite knowing the negative effects because of how engraved it is to their routine and how it makes them feel,” — Hadley Moore, sophomore
“I use diaries to record some stuff about my day or make lists about things that need to happen or stop,” he said.
Breaking bad habits on the other hand, plagues everyone still, but sophomore Hadley Moore manages to qualify the feelings behind them.
For example, middle-school cheerleader Mabel Starr, 6th grader, tumbles daily not because she is just trying to be flexible but because she considers herself a tumbler, an identity rather than a trait.
“I do so many cartwheels,” Starr said. “I do them all the time. It helps me practice tumbling for cheer and it keeps me flexible.”
“People do bad habits despite knowing the negative effects because of how engraved it is to their routine and how it makes them feel,” Moore said. “Habits are formed from repetitive actions, such as biting your nails when you’re nervous. It’s a bad habit, but it’s difficult to remove the bad habits. These habits — such as biting your nails — either help decrease a negative feeling, or emit a negative feeling.”
Hunt sees a bad habit as a conscious decision to choose the easier or more comfortable path to an end goal.
“I would try to make my boring habit fun by making it into a game,”
— Reeve Sanders, 6th grader
There are four specific steps Clear poses related to habit-creation and their inverses, applicable to the destruction of negative ones. One method that he focuses on is making something obvious versus invisible. If you want to start doing something like jump-roping before school starts, you would place your jump rope on your doorknob so you see it if you try to leave the room. On the other hand if you want to stop doing something, like going on your phone before school, you could put
“I think people continue to do bad habits even when they know they are bad because they either don't mind the bad habit or they are simply unable to create a lasting solution to combat the habit,” Hunt said.
In order to make the boring or monotonous tasks of the day seem more interesting, Hunt practices habit-stacking, a term more thoroughly covered in Atomic Habits meaning to combine a mundane or unenjoyable habit with something more pleasant.
“I give myself some kind of reward afterward,” Hunt said. “For example, sometimes I like to watch a show or movie after I finish my homework.”
Atomic Habits by James Clear offers ideas for small ways to make big changes in your productivity.
IT'S A DATE!
Adventure outside the box with one of these fun and unique local date spots
BY SARA CLARK REPORTER
Throwing an axe, solving the puzzle to escape the room and weaving a rug may not seem like a normal date night, but more than 94% of students said they’d be willing to try something outside the box this Valentine’s Day, according to the Jan/Feb VR student poll. With the day of love right around the corner, the Vanguard Review thought there was no better way to spend the day than on a fun date, not just a dinner and a movie but something special. Here are some of the most unique date spots in the greater Waco area, including The Fuzz Lab, Waco Axe Company, The Last Drive-In Picture Show and Waco Escape Rooms.
Fuzz Lab
Fuzz Lab is located in downtown Waco and seems to be less known by Vanguard students. They offer multiple things to do, including making your personally designed rug, or acrylic-painted bear as well as designing things with whipped cream clay. “I think rug tufting is the best for a date because of the uniqueness of being able to make a rug from beginning to end with your partner,” Ashley Newberry, an employee at Fuzz Lab, said. “Our studio guides walk you through the entire process from choosing the design, using our projectors to trace the image onto the canvas, choosing your yarn colors, actually tufting the rug, cutting and gluing the backing on and shaving the rug. And to top it off, you and your partner have a handmade keepsake from the date,” she said. The rug prices vary from $48-198, while the ceramics vary from $12-258 dollars and the cream clay creations range from $10-38.
Waco Axe Company
Located downtown, Waco Axe Co. is a fun and different date spot where you will walk in and be greeted by your axe-throwing teacher to show you all the ins and outs of axe throwing. Sessions last 1-2 hours and cost $20-35 a person. Waco Axe Co. can be a date spot or a group hangout, with prices ranging from $17-32 a person when in a group. While you need to be 13 or older to participate in throwing and wear close-toed shoes, there are many options, such as axe throwing and knife throwing, that students can join in.
Waco Escape Rooms
The Last Drive-
In Picture Show
Now it might just sound like a dinner and movie, but there is something special about the Last-Drive-In Picture Show. Located in Gatesville, which is about a 40-minute drive from Waco, there is much more than a movie theater. There is a putt-putt course, an indoor cinema and of course the outdoor screen. With many popular movies showing on outdoor and indoor screens, the drive-in theater is the perfect spot if you want to watch a movie a little differently. Times and what movies are showing can be found on their Facebook and tickets can be purchased on-site for $10 per carload.
Waco Escape Rooms, located in Downtown Waco, offers many room options. If you are looking to escape a room with a special someone, you should try the dinner for two room, which is labeled as medium difficulty and has a price tag of $50. Just like Waco Axe Co, Waco Escape Rooms can also be done with a group of friends. Waco Escape Rooms offers rooms for groups of anywhere from 4-12 people and rooms with anywhere from beginner to expert-level challenges and room prices from $25-200.
CAFFEINE CRAZE
The buzz on sports energy drinks and natural energy boosters
BY CHARLIE STEWART REPORTER
Slamming an energy drink. It’s something you might do if you stayed up late studying or had a football game last night and couldn’t get enough sleep. Energy drinks are quickly becoming one of the most consumed beverages in the world — and there’s a drink for every need. Some are made for athletes or people that want a high heart rate to do their best in their sport for exercise. While other energy drinks are for people who want caffeine but don't need a bunch of energy.
Energy drinks have one thing in common: They contain caffeine and other stimulants that can enhance alertness and temporarily increase energy levels.
About 90% of adults consume caffeine every day, making it the most common stimulant in the world, according to the Mayo Clinic. Total sport and energy drink sales globally reached $212 billion in 2024, according to the Statista Consumer Market Outlook.
The U.S. is the No. 1 market, with the average person consuming nearly eight gallons of sports and energy drinks a year, according to the Mayo Clinic. These beverages are the second most popular dietary supplement among U.S. teens and young adults, behind multivitamins.
Caffeine can have some positive effects, including improved reaction time, alertness and ability to concentrate, according to the Mayo Clinic. But it also can have negative effects such as nervousness, insomnia, irritability and panic attacks.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) made these recommendations for adults is up to 400 milligrams of caffeine per day, the equivalent of two to three 12-ounce cups of coffee. Most energy drinks contain 100-300 milligrams of caffeine per serving.
The American Academy of Pediatrics discourages the consumption of caffeine and other stimulants by children and adolescents. In recent years, emergency departments have seen a rising trend of children being admitted due to overconsumption of caffeine, also known as caffeine toxicity, according to the Mayo Clinic.
That’s why it is important to prioritize healthier alternatives for sustained energy. Viking athletic trainer Justin Efird said there are ways to naturally be more energized.
“Go to sleep before 10 p.m. and wake up before 7 a.m.,” he said. “Every person is different and you may need to experiment
Energy drinks have one thing in common: They contain caffeine and other stimulants that can enhance alertness and temporarily increase energy levels. Sophomores Josh Lawson and Crosby Davis and seniors Aidan Schupbach and Cat Williamson enjoy various energy drinks such as Celsius, C4, Red Bull and Alani. Sara Clark /Vanguard Review staff
with your sleep schedule to determine your perfect fit.
“Don’t drink caffeine after 2 p.m.,” Efird said. “This ensures you will not be hyper when you need to go to sleep.”
A healthy diet can improve energy, Efird said.
“Eat 30-50g of protein at each meal,” he said. “This makes sure your body has enough fuel to function. Drink plenty of water with electrolytes to stay hydrated.”
But kids are going to consume energy drinks at one time or another, so they VR asked students about their drinks of choice. 65% of students like Gatorade the most.
Red Bull is a top choice for many young athletes, even though moms have been known to say things like ‘it will put bubbles
in your heart.’
“Red Bull makes me feel energized and makes my heart race,” junior Landry Cole said.
Sophomore Crosby Davis is a Red Bull consumer too.
“I love Red Bull,” Davis said. “Coconut berry is fire, the best flavor out there.”
Alani, which comes in more than 13 flavors in brightly colored cans, has 200 milligrams of caffeine. That is 2.5 times the amount of Red Bull.
C4, made by Nutrabolt which sponsors the World Wrestling Entertainment, is made with no sugar, zero calories and no artificial sweeteners. The C4 energy drink has 200mg of caffeine.
“I like C4 but it’s strong,” freshman Conlee Felton said.
Freshman Cooper Peel likes it too.
“C4 is my favorite energy drink,” he said.”I really like the pink starburst and the blue one.”
Celsius is made for athletes and people trying to burn calories, according to the company’s website. A low-calorie option, it contains 200 milligrams of caffeine and it also claims to improve metabolism.
A normal Monster has 86 mg of caffeine.
“I really like white Monster, definitely more than Red Bull,” Peel said.
Freshman Avery Walzel offered her reviews of several energy drinks.
“Red Bull is really gross,” she said. “Monsters remind me of people who only play video games. Celsius is good but it tastes like sparkling water. Alani is so so so good. I love them so much. C4 is kind of weird but still good.”
Senior Aidan Schupbach had this to say about energy drinks.
“C4 is the best energy drink made ever because they not only have a good amount of caffeine in them for a workout but they also contain beta alanine which give you a pins and needles feeling in your skin,” he said. “And for people who use beta alanine, it triggers a placebo to get you ready for a workout.”
ROAD TO RECOVERY
Vikings share their experience with injuries and the steps it took to recover
BY SARA CLARK REPORTER
It’s the third game of the season, the lights are bright and the energy is high.
Freshman Dash Akins goes for the tackle against a member of the Methodist Children’s Home football team. The next thing he knows, he hears a snap.
“It didn’t feel like I broke it,” Akins said. “It felt like my wrist just popped, like popping a knuckle, and it didn’t hurt at all at first until I got to the ER.”
That night, Akins broke his wrist in two places, which affected a growth plate.
After an injury, like Akins’ broken wrist, comes a period of recovery that may require an athlete to rest and rehabilitate. There are two different types of recovery, short and long-term.
Short-term recovery usually occurs shortly after a workout, this includes icing, stretching and more, according to the National Institute of Health.
More than 68% of students have suffered an injury, according to the Jan/Feb VR student polls.
Long-term recovery usually occurs when athletes need to build back their strength after an injury, this can include physical therapy, which a doctor usually recommends, according to Cleveland Clinic.
Physical therapy can be done anywhere from one to multiple times a week, and it includes exercises outside of the in-person sessions.
Nearly 32% of students have attended physical therapy, according to the VR student poll.
Akins said he saw benefits from PT.
“My experience with PT was good in getting my strength back in my wrist and also stretching my wrist back to where it's not tight and I can move it around freely,” he said.
Sophomore Miley Gonzales, who was born with a deficit to her meniscus, has had multiple surgeries to attempt to repair it.
“I do physical therapy after surgeries to recover,” she said. “It does help me recover faster but it’s painful and you have to be consistent.”
Sophomore Cooper Borg suffered an ankle injury during the 2024-2025 football season opener.
“Taking care of my body is the No. 1 priority to prepare for practice and game,” Borg said. “At Vanguard, the training staff is very hands-on and involved. Without them,
More than 68% of Vanguard students have suffered an injury.
it would have been more of a struggle.”
And while PT might benefit some, it doesn’t work for everyone.
“I’ve been doing PT for years [and] it barely helps but I love the PT person so I still go,” freshman Abby Carrigan said.
Overworking the body can also be a problem during recovery.
“Key signs of being overworked come in many symptoms [including] muscle tension and shortness of breath,” Kimberly Damm, owner and yoga instructor of Yoga 8 studio in Waco, said.
Source: VR Jan. 2024 student poll
time,” Gonzales said. “It’s very hard for me cause I love sports and being active but my knee holds me back quite often.”
Even though Borg was only out for two weeks, not getting to participate in a sport he loved made him uncomfortable.
“I was uncomfortable, knowing I could be helping my team,” Borg said.
People also tend to put pressure on themselves to play their best, even when injured. Nearly 44% of students said they have hidden an injury from a coach, according to the VR student poll.
“I never really took time off for the sports I was good at because I refused to get behind,” Carrigan said.
But Damm said it’s important to take a step back and put everything into perspective.
“You are only human. As humans, we put
Not being able to participate in the sports a person loves can affect their self-esteem. Carrigan said that her injuries made her “feel annoyed and incapable.”
Nearly 40% of students said that their injury made them feel sad not to play the sport they love.
“Injuries are hard. They set you back and it gets harder to get back up each
the most pressure on ourselves,” Damm said. “Know that you can only do so much and as long as you are doing your best, that is all you need to do.”
Top: Freshman Dash Akins waits at an urgent care clinic after breaking his wrist during a football game last fall. Photo courtesy of Dash Akins Athletic trainer Justin Efird examines senior Amelia Livesay's foot after she tore ligaments during a basketball game. Sara Clark/VR staff
ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT
BY CHARLIE STEWART REPORTER
ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT
Bentlee Keepers, '25, Varsity Basketball
Vanguard Review: What’s your favorite shoe and why?
Bentlee Keepers: My favorite shoes are Sabrinas because I love how you can customize them and make them unique.
VR: What’s your favorite shot in basketball: 3-point, layup, mid range?
BK: My favorite shot in basketball is layups because you have a high chance of getting an and one.
VR: If you had one super ability in basketball what would you like? Super speed, high jumping, etc.
BK: High jumping would be an awesome super ability in basketball. I would just dunk every single play.
VR: Do you have a way to lock in pre-game?
BK: I don't have a specific routine before the game. If it’s an away game, I’ll usually take a nap on the bus. If it’s a home game I’ll just lay in bed and chill before the game.
VR: What’s your favorite pre-game song?
BK: Currently my pre game song has been Luther by Kendrick Lamar and SZA.
VR: What is your favorite drink for games?
BK: I love drinking an Alani before my games. My favorite flavor is pink slush.
VR: Is basketball your favorite sport?
BK: Basketball is definitely my favorite sport. I love the competitiveness and excitement that comes with each game!
VR: Do you have a preference on your favorite basketball brand? BK: I love Nike and especially Sabrina shoes!!
VR: Do you think Drew also playing basketball has forced you to keep improving to challenging each other?
BK: Yes definitely! Because I can’t let him get better than me.
VR: Do you believe that coach's mood has a big impact on if you win or lose a game?
BK: Totally! A coach's mood affects the game greatly. It’s hard to have a positive mood if even your coach doesn’t.
VR: Having a perfect record in district so far, do you think you can lead your team to a state title?
BK: I have confidence that out of all my years playing basketball this would be the year we win. We need to stay focused and not let distractions affect the game.
ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT
Henry Whitt, '26, Varsity Basketball
Vanguard Review: What was your favorite basketball shoe?
Henry Whitt: My favorite basketball shoe is my Kobe Reverse Grinches.
VR: What’s your favorite pre game song?
HW: My favorite pregame song is Malibu by coach Braden Black.
VR: If you could play in a 7th grade game how many point are you gonna have?
HW: If I play in a 7th grade game I'm having at least 40.
VR: Do you like Wilson or Spalding basketballs more?
HW: I like Wilson’s better I tend to shoot better with them.
VR: Would you rather have a 50 inch vertical or be 7 ft?
HW: I’d rather be 7 ft because that’s basically a free ticket to the NBA.
VR: What's your favorite color of Gatorade?
HW: My favorite color of Gatorade is purple.
VR:What’s your favorite basketball play?
HW: My favorite play is probably 41 because I can go get a bucket or throw a lob to Tristan.
VR: Do you think we have a chance at state this year?
HW: I think we’re good this year and we can go far but next year is our year to really go far because we’ll all be older and bigger.
VR: Now that we don’t play Live Oak, who is our biggest competitor in sports?
HW: Probably Hill Country is our biggest competitor. It's always close in baseball and basketball.
VR: What’s your favorite memory of this season so far?
HW: My favorite memory from this season is when coach Remus took us to get milkshakes and Buccees after our game against Texas School of the Deaf.
Photo by Brindley Ressetar/Bifrost staff
Photo by Landry Cole/Bifrost staff
THAT'S A BET!
Online gambling companies target teens through social media and apps
BY CHARLIE STEWART REPORTER
An NCAA study found that sports wagering is widespread among 18-22-year-olds — with 58% of them engaging in at least one sports betting activity. The survey also found that 67% of students living on a college campus are bettors and that 41% of them have placed a bet on their school’s team, according to the NCAA. Six percent reported they have lost more than $500 to betting in just one day.
“I know lots of people who bet on sports,” senior Marc Offill said. “Consequences come from not setting limits for yourself and putting all of your trust in gambling, and it can result in going broke.”
Gambling advertisers are targeting college students, the NCAA study revealed. Sixty-three percent of students on campus said they recall seeing ads for betting and 58% said they are more likely to place a bet after seeing an ad.
But it’s not just college kids who are being targeted — it’s high school kids and younger. And it can start with something as simple as an online game.
“I get these weird websites asking me to pick my team,” freshman Avery Walzel said. “I just scroll past them because I don’t want to gamble.”
For decades, sports gambling was primarily driven by underground bookies, which are people who determine gambling odds. As of 2025, more than 30 states have legalized some form of sports betting. The industry's expansion is not limited to traditional betting at casinos and racetracks.
"I get these weird websites asking me to pick my team. I just scroll past them because I don't want to gamble."
-Avery Walzel, freshman
Online sportsbooks have rapidly gained traction, allowing users to place bets from the comfort of their own home. In 2023 sports betting set a record of $11 billion, according to an annual report by the American Gaming Association.
Many sports betting apps, like Draftkings or FanDuel, use social media like Instagram,TikTok and Snapchat to reach their target audience.
“I see ads to get me to spend money on online games,” freshman Cinco Salome said.
Freshman Lauren Gonzales said that because she does not have Spotify Premium, she gets a lot of ads from Winstar Casino.
Dawn Wible, founder of an organization called Talk More Tech Less, said there’s no doubt gaming companies are targeting kids earlier than ever.
“Young kids can be groomed for online gambling at very early ages due to gamification of online games many kids are playing on phones, iPads, PCs and gaming consoles. Even ads popping up during playing a game are influencing young minds and teaching them how to take risks and use ‘coins or points’ to gain more from the game.
Wible said users are getting dopamine sent to their brain as a reward for playing and risking the game.
“This trains them as they get older to take bigger risks and stay connected to the games,” Wible said.
For kids who get sucked in, the consequences can be bad.
“Kids suffering from excessive online gambling and excessive gaming can have a decrease in social connection, lower academic performance, decreased motivation in real life activities and relationships, increased emotional aggression, financial instability and many other mental and physical disparities,” Wible said, “compared to kids who have a healthier, more balanced approach to games.”
The side effects of gambling can be stress, anxiety and depression, according to the National Institute of Health. Only 1 in 5 people seek help for their gambling problems.
Besides being bad for mental health, currently in Texas, most forms of gambling are illegal for people of all ages. Gambling in Texas can result in a Class C misdemeanor charge, which is a fine of up to $500.
Freshman McKenna Lannen said she understands why gambling can be really bad for kids.
“ Think if you gamble at this age you will be immature with your money handling later in life,” Lannen said.
To reduce the risk of kids getting involved in online gambling, Wible said parents can put on safer settings to make sure they know what games their kids are downloading.
“Make sure credit and debit cards are not openly linked to the games, so caregivers have to approve a purchase first,” she said. Put on screen time settings for time limits to support real life activities versus excessive screen time.”
But ultimately, it’s up to teens to make the right decision for themselves by concentrating on school, sports and other activities and not participating if a friend or a gaming ad tries to get them to bet their money.
Students are bombarded by ads like this — to place a bet on certain players — when scrolling on social media, even if they aren't of legal gambling age.
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT
BETWEEN THE LINES
Jon Esparza works hard on his own grades and makes time for others
BY SELINA JUNG REPORTER
During break or lunch in the senior lounge, there are a lot of people chatting with their friends, playing games and having fun — and Jon Esparza is one of them. But no matter what, his manages to keep his grades top notch too.
“My favorite subject to learn is history, because it’s just so fascinating and interesting to look back and study the cause and effect of human history,” Esparza said. “My favorite subject to do, however, would have to be math, probably because it’s usually the easiest and most satisfying work for me. I like how all the work into evaluating a problem ends up in a nice and neat answer.”
He is interested in studying to become an aerospace engineer or electrical engineer after he graduates high school.
“I feel like engineering is a good fit for me because I enjoy creative designing,” Esparza said. “I’m good at math and being an engineer means learning new valuable skills along the way.”
Sometimes, you have a challenge that you have to face choosing between sleeping and studying.
“It depends on how important the quiz or test is,” Esparza said. “If it’s something like a reading quiz, then I’ll just study the morning before going to school and get more sleep, but if it’s finals week, then I will sometimes cut into the time I have for sleep a day or two before that final.”
Managing your own time is also important for both studying and sleeping, Esparza said.
“I manage time with a schedule,” he said. “Google Calendar or any calendar app is good, and an actual physical planner is even better.”
But even a student like Esparza can face challenges.
“He's a great guy, and he really focuses on trying to work on the stuff that you really need help on .”
— Samuel Hale, freshman
“Most of the time my only academic challenge would be competing with other students to get the highest quarter grade in each class,” he said, “but lately, the biggest challenge for me is balancing school, sports, work and church.”
Esparza said his faith is important to him and is his inspiration.
“My motivation to study and work hard comes from my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ,” he said.
He offered some study advice for people who want to improve their grades or studying skills.
“Quizlets/flashcards, setting time out of your day to studying, and not procrastinating (stop doom scrolling) are the best ways to improve grades and better your studying skills” he said.
Sharing his knowledge and academic skills, Esparza serves as a tutor through the Mu Alpha Theta math organization.
“Helping other students in tutoring and knowing that you’re helping them get better grades is a nice feeling,” he said. “It’s also interesting to see how others process and evaluate study problems and the outside perspective lets me know how to work with them. One thing I've learned that I’ve never really thought about before is that people appreciate any help they can get, even if it’s something easier for you to understand.”
Freshman Samuel Hale is one of the students Esparza tutors.
“He’s a great guy, and he really focuses on trying to work on the stuff that you really
need help on,” Hale said. “And he always goes over and makes sure that you know it. He’s always kind, and never says anything bad and if you struggle, no matter what, he always helps.”
Hale said he appreciates that Esparza is down-to-earth.
“He’s a very humble guy and he doesn’t try to seem like he’s a know-it-all,” Hale said. “He doesn’t try to do too much. He is really nice.”
Outside of school, Esparza said he likes to play video games, board games and trivia games. He enjoys building LEGOs, solving puzzles and crossbow shooting at the range as well. He also spends extra time at church and work.
Senior Jon Esparza tutors freshman Samuel Hale in Geometry. "He's a very humble guy and doesn't try to seem like he's a know-it-all," Hale said. Selina Jung /VR staff
SNUG AS A BUG IN A RUG
Sleep can make or break your everyday life — be sure you're getting enough
BY SUSANNA MERCHANT REPORTER
WWhen freshman Conlee Felton chillaxes in the evening, time can get away from him. Often he looks at the clock, only to find that it is already midnight. Not one to be deterred, he finishes the episode of the show he is watching — and most likely the next one too — despite any consequences that might result from it in the morning.
When he arrives at school the next day, after only a few hours of sleep, he finds himself feeling “very sleep deprived, obviously, and not functional.”
Felton is not alone. More than 71% of students feel they are in a worse mood when they don’t get enough sleep, according to the Jan/Feb VanguardReviewstudent poll. Dr. Michael K. Scullin, Baylor University professor of psychology and neuroscience, said that lack of sleep can take a toll on a teenager’s body.
“When people are continuously deprived of sleep, every system in their body suffers,” Scullin said.
More than 66% of students agree that a lack of sleep can result in a more negative performance in school, according to the VR poll.
“I think [sleep] is important because it controls whether I'll have a good or bad day,” sophomore Maggie Scala said.
According to the National Sleep Founda-
More than 71% of students said they are in a worse mood when they don't get enough sleep.
over the weekend, which further disrupts sleep-wake cycles.
Scullin added that when teenagers miss out on sleep, the brain misses out on valuable tasks. Such tasks make the mind sharper and the body more functionally sound.
“The latest advances in sleep science have revealed that while we’re sleeping, our brain is engaging in numerous critical housekeeping operations including DNA repair, clearance of waste products that build up during the day, and organization of new memories with existing knowledge networks,” he said. “Our SNaC lab at Baylor has conducted several studies on students who were deprived of sleep, finding that it results in greater difficulties learning, crummier mood, and altered neurocognitive functioning.”
When someone does not get enough sleep, they can underperform in school which can have a negative domino effect, leading to even less sleep.
Source: VR student poll
tion, an organization dedicated to improving public health and well-being through sleep education and advocacy, teens might be inclined to stay up later due to the difference in biological clocks between teens and adults. When this happens on school nights, teens cannot sleep in as they would if there were nothing interfering with their sleep. Therefore, many will try to catch up on sleep
“I think sleep is important to stay active and astute during classes,” freshman Hunter Lamb said.
But only 11% of students get the recommended average amount of sleep, according to the VR January poll.
Scullin said teenagers need 8 to 10 hours of sleep each night, as recommended by the National Sleep Foundation and the American Academy of Pediatrics.
“For teenagers, the goal should be to go
to bed at a consistent time each night, have a break between using tech and climbing into bed, and allow sufficient time for sleeping,” Scullin said.
Getting enough sleep is important, but the quality of sleep can also have an effect. So which is more important?
“I’d encourage [students] to view this question as similar to asking whether nutrition quantity or quality is better,” Scullin said. “They’re both important to overall sleep health. For example, no one would say it’s good to consume the recommended 2,000 calories per day if the person is only eating desserts. Nor would someone recommend eating 4,000 calories a day worth of salad and quinoa.”
Worries and anxieties can make falling asleep difficult, Scullin said, so people who are experiencing that are encouraged to write down all of their worries before getting into bed. If the issue persists, then they’re encouraged to visit with a clinician or counselor.
Bottom line: Getting proper sleep can
"When people are continuously deprived of sleep, every system in their body suffers."
- Michael K. Scullin Professor of Psychology and Neuroscience Baylor University
actually be a matter of life or death.
“I think the starting point is realizing that when any organism is continuously deprived of sleep, it dies after about 2 to 3 weeks,” Scullin said. “That’s the same length of time it takes for starvation to result in death. When people are continuously deprived of sleep, every system in their body suffers. The brain is particularly harmed by sleep deprivation."
