Westland Hialeah Senior High
Volume 7 Issue 3
The Wildcat Chronicles Ways to Pay for College By: Jatniel Carvajal
In today’s world of financial hardships and economic instability, students around the country and abroad wonder on the haunting nightmare of how they are going to pay for higher education. The bloody spring of rushing for college entrance, the hype to attend the dream university and encounter one’s belonging within sororities, college jocks, nerds, and rebels, all crushed by the impotent power of not having enough capital. Fear not, for Captain Hope has arrived, and with the combines powers of FAFSA, part-time jobs, rich relatives, and scholarships he brings to you the realistic possibility to attend the college of your dreams. Since January 1, 2015, The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) has been available for free to all seniors at the Department of Education’s website. In this application, a student indicates his/hers financial situation and these data is considered to the granting of grants to help a student pay for higher education. The school CAP advisor, honorable Mrs. Bromfield, has hosted several events to help senior’s Wildcats fill out the often-challenging application. Pell Grants, an award within FAFSA, is one of the many benefits one can ac-
quire from the federal government towards higher education. Now, we all know that dream universities are very expensive and possibly FAFSA would not cover all the costs. Don’t worry, subsidized and unsubsidized loans are provided by the Department of Education to help pay for higher education. In subsidized loans, the government pays the interest in periods of authorized deferment (in-schools, hardships), meanwhile, in unsubsidized loans, the borrower remains in full responsibility of the interest. Still need money? Why not consider applying for scholarships! Many of these are completely free and can grant from as little as $100 to a full-tuition, the only cost would be the time it took to fill the application. Consider the power of rich relatives, these are always willing to help as long as one has a good relationship with them. One could even getting an in-school parttime job and help pay a good portion of the bill. The fear is gone, another successful day for Captain Hope, remember that going to your dream university is possible.
Educational Salary By: Angel Garcia Still deciding if going to college is beneficial? Some people may think that college is too expensive for them and that they will be paying debts their entire life. You rather just work after school and accumulate money right? WRONG! Studies show that people who graduate from high school earn an average of $30,000 yearly salary. While college graduates earn 45,000 and more depending on the level of education; 45,000 is only with an associates, you can only imagine how much you can make with more education. Every year the gap between the high school annual and college salary has increased. Studies have been recorded and show that in 1965 the gap between high and college salary was 7,499. That amount has more than doubled; in 2013
the gap was 17,500. The value of a college degree is greater than it has been nearly half a century ago. There is also evidence that today graduates have more regrets, they said: they wish they could have gotten more work experience and studied harder. Still worried about all of that debt? Just think that after a certain time you will be earning more income and you will be able to pay for any amount borrowed. Know that with a college degree you will have a more financially secure future. Kurtzleben, Danielle. "Study: Income Gap Between Young College and High School Grads Widens." US News. U.S.News & World Report, 11 Feb. 2014. Web. 9 Apr. 2015.
Table Of Contents Page 2: Editorial & College 411 Page 3: Esquina Latina & College 411 (cont.) Page 4 & 5: Senior Flashback Centerfold
Page 6: Summer Activities & Trends Page 7: Entertainment Page 8: MDC Advertisement
Peer Pressure in College By: Yemily Ruiz What exactly is peer pressure? The official definition is the act of being influenced from members of one’s peer group, but it is so much more than that. Peer pressure can come in all types of forms. From innocently being dared to talk to a crush by your friend, to something much more serious.
have already been expelled. We can assume that perhaps one of them wasn’t racist themselves but was influenced by the need to fit in. That is all peer pressure is, someone’s need to fit in and them finding themselves being molded into someone they aren’t in order to be a part of something.
Some of us believe that once we leave high school, peer pressure stays behind. Truth is, peer pressure is something that’s always with everyone, some people just aren’t as influenced as others. It leads down to someone being slowly turned into something else because of the people they associate themselves with. Not so long ago, a university in Oklahoma had a video leaked around revealing how students chanted a racist song in one of the university’s fraternity. Two members, who school officials said played leadership roles in chant,
There are ways to deal with peer pressure, and most importantly, ways to not be influenced by it. Just because it’s a higher education institution, like college, does not mean you can’t find yourself being a victim of peer pressure. Trying to stay around a good crowd, speaking to a supervisor or distancing yourself from people that might put you in a pressured situation, are all good options. The best way to avoid peer pressure though, is to know yourself, uphold your morals, and know when to say no.
What to Take When Leaving the Nest By: Rshwined Scott There are many questions circling around the head of a senior planning to go away to college. One very important thing a senior must ask themselves is what to take when leaving home. Whether you’re sleeping in your university dorm or at a student apartment, there are essentials that you must take.
Lap Top Computer: A lap top is a must when going away to college. You will use your lap top for many things from in-school work to relaxing in your dorm watching Netflix on it, or blasting music while cleaning. You do not need to get a Mac but do buy one that will last you throughout your four years. You don’t want to spend money on it twice! Clothes: You must take clothes, that’s a given, but remember if you’re in a dorm your storage space will be limited so choose wisely. Leaving behind seasonal clothes at home will save you space but consider the weather of where you’re going. Flip Flops: Flip flops are a must when it comes to showering in dorm bathrooms, you don’t know what kind of dirt or bacteria are on that floor or when it’s been cleaned. You don’t want to end up with athlete’s foot. Your best bet is to go with your good ole flip flops.
Shower Caddy: It’d be a hassle to have to carry your shampoo, conditioner, and body wash all in your arms with the risk of dropping it on your way to or back from the bathroom, and a shower caddy is the perfect item when it comes to transporting all of your shower things.
Dorm Rooms Accessories: If you are staying in a dorm odds are you will have a twin size bed. Check in with your university to know what size your bed will be and find colorful bedding. Remember you can’t paint your walls so you will need to find other ways to personalize your space. Pictures: Moving away is hard, especially when you start getting home sick. To prevent this, take framed pictures of your family and friends and whenever the sad feeling hits just take a look at the pictures and remember they are just a phone call away.
WESTLAND HIALEAH SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL
4000 W. 18TH AVENUE, HIALEAH, FL. 33012
Editor-in-Chief: Felipe Martinez Layout Editor(s): Gabriela Garcia, Ariel Torres Editorial: Yemily Ruiz Entertainment: Kevin Ordaz, Ariel Torres Feature Editor: Jatniel Carvajal
Staff Writers: Elisabet Carvajal, Jatniel Carvajal, Charles Cruz, Erick Cuellar, Angel Garcia, Gabriela Garcia, Lourdes Gonzales, Felipe Martinez, Kevin Ordaz, Yemily Ruiz, Rshwined Scott Adviser: Ms. Arlene Socorro
Esquina Latina Tres Universidades Importantes de la Florida Por: Erick Cuellar Florida International University
University of Central Florida
University of Florida
La Universidad Internacional de florida es una universidad pública localizada en University Park condado de Miami-Dade , Florida , en los Estados Unidos . Pertenece al sistema universitario estatal de florida. Tiene dos campos, el principal denominado Modesto A. Mardique Campus, en University Park y el Biscayne Bay Campus, en North Miami. Tiene facultades de arquitectura, ingeniería, administración de empresas, ley y finanzas entre sus más destacadas. FIU es la universidad más grande del sur de la florida, FUI tiene más de 52.000 alumnos, 3,300 profesores y más de 180,000 egresado.
La Universidad de Florida Central la UCF está ubicada en Orlando, Florida, y es una de las instituciones que forman el sistema universitario estatal de florida. Desde 2009 la UCF es la universidad pública más grande en número de estudiantes matriculados totales y en estado de florida y la tercera más grande de los Estados Unidos. La UCF concede títulos de grado, master y doctorados, así como títulos propios. El campus principal se halla aproximadamente 14 millas al este del centro de Orlando. La universidad también tiene 12 campus satélites en florida central.
La Universidad de la Florida es una universidad pública del sistema universitario estatal de florida ubicada en la ciudad de Gainesville, Florida, en Estados Unidos. Tiene más de 52.000 estudiantes y ocupa también el octavo logar entre los presupuestos universitarios más grades, con mil millones de dólares al año. UF es la universidad más grande de la florida, La U.F. es una de las pulic luy , la única en la región conocida como sur profundo .
Staying Home For College vs. Going Away By Dashielly Quintero As graduation approaches for the seniors, the time comes for many to go upstate or maybe even leave Florida all together or stay close to home. For those in the middle, this list will hopefully shed some light on both sides.
Staying Home
Going Away
Pros:
Cons:
Living with your family saves you money. According to the FSA website, it cost around $6,512 yearly to live with your family.
You don’t really get to experience a college life away from your hometown.
You’re closer to home, which means less gas to spend.
Can’t get away from home to experience a new state or country.
You will be closer to family that can lending a helping hand.
There will be more competition due to the amount of people in the area, especially in Miami.
There are many close colleges and universities, such as, Miami Dade College, Brown Mackie College, Miami International University of Art and Design, Miami Culinary, Barry University, and Nova Southeastern University.
Pros:
Cons:
Independence from family and have new experiences that will teach you how to deal with situations yourself instead of relying on your family.
If you’re thinking of living at a university, you need to be aware of the cost of living necessities. According to the UF website, the price range for room and board is around $9,520 to $12,840, yearly.
Summer Activities That Can Strengthen
Mi Ultima Lección:
Your College Application
Por: Mr. Plá
By: Lourdes Gonzalez
Para ser feliz no importa lo que el mundo te ofrezca, sino lo que tú puedas ofrecer, porque todo lo que se da regresa, y ante los ojos del Señor sólo valen las buenas obras.
The college admissions market is becoming more and more competitive every day. Your saving grace to get accepted into the college of your choice could be some summer activities! College admissions officers typically search for students who are active and involved in the community and are putting forward maximum effort. During the summer months, volunteering or giving community service hours, being a camp counselor, or even starting your own local business can show your involvement. You can also show that you’re serious about getting ahead in college by advancing in your credits and getting involved in college programs. Another thing college admission officers look for is self-advancement. Spending the summer abroad, getting an internship or job, and making college connections can all help you get into your preferred college. Always remember to also have a positive online image, as every college can and will look at your online presence. "10 Summer Activities That Will Turn Admissions' Heads." TeenLife Media. Web. 11 Mar. 2015. <https://www.teenlife.com/blogs/articles/10-summer-activities-will-turnadmissions-heads>.
Al final no te llevarás lo que has guardado, sólo se irá contigo lo que has hecho en favor de los demás; es decir, lo que has dado. Nunca te quejes, la vida no es fácil, camino sin piedras no es camino, no te compares con nadie, mídete contigo mismo; es la única manera segura de avanzar. Aprende a dominar tus iras, se tolerante, jamás agredas, no olvides lo que dijo el poeta: “El golpe daña más al que lo da, que al que lo recibe”; estira la mano sólo para dar o ayudar. En todos los actos de tu vida trata de ser justo, piensa en los demás; deja que tu corazón cumpla con su deber, su destino es querer; para eso lo hizo Dios por lo menos eso pensamos los maestros. Quiéranse mucho, ahora que pueden hacerlo, que están presentes, que es físicamente possible. Recuerden hijos, que mañana si no los aparta la vida, lo hará la muerte. No olviden que el amor es un camino de una sola vía. El que ustedes amen no necesariamente será respondido de igual manera. Alguien quetal vez fue tu maestro, Plá
We Never Go Out of Style
My Last Lesson:
By: Charles Cruz
By: Mr. Plá
High school and trends go together like peanut butter and jelly. Everyone loves to fit in or attempt to. Here at Westland Hialeah Senior High, we seniors have witnessed many trends during these four years. Here are the most “unique” styles. 9th Grade: Sneaker Heads (shoe collectors), long Nike socks, Nike Free-Runs, snap backs, and HUGE belt buckles, almost the size of a human head. 10th Grade: Varsity jackets (letterman jackets), Sperry’s (boat shoes), Toms, and North Face Hiking Book bags. 11th Grade: Bucket Hats, Nike Roshe runs, chino pants, stance socks (colorful designed dress socks). 12th Grade: Jogging pants (cuff at the end of the pants), comb-overs (hairstyle), and getting a car. Honestly, without these trends high school wouldn’t have been the same. Between the hairstyles, the funny shoes, the fresh clothes, the ridiculous accessories, times at Westland have been amazing!
To be happy, it doesn’t matter what the world offers you but rather, what you can offer the world. Everything good that you put you into the world will come back to you, and before God’s eyes, only the good deeds count. In the end, you will not take what material items you have gathered, only your good deeds will go with you and will be left behind as your legacy. Never complain even though life is hard. A path without stones is no path at all. Don’t compare yourself to others, measure your worth to your own standards; it is the only way to get ahead in life. Learn to be tolerant of others and never hurt them. Never forget what the poet said, “A punch hurts more to those who give it than to those who receive it.” Only extend your hand to give or to assist. In all walks of life, try to be just and think about others. Leave your heart to serve it purpose, which is to love. God made it just for that, at least that’s what teachers believe. Love each other very much, now that you have the opportunity, that you are present with each other. Remember students, that if life doesn’t separate you, death will. Never forget that love sometimes is a one way path, and that should you love one person doesn’t mean it be reciprocated, but nevertheless, still love. From your beloved teacher, Plá
Ode to the College Pennant
Letter from the Editor
By: Vanessa Reyes
By: Felipe Martinez
Once again, The Wildcat Chronicles would like to dedicate the final issue of this year’s newspaper to our beloved seniors.
Every day as I sit and visualize, There in the wall, I recognize
As we approach the final days of high school, it’s essential to look back at what got us here. All those long nights we spent studying and finishing homework were worth it. Those are the moments that sculpted our character and made us stronger individuals.
Different colors and triangular shapes, From Florida International to Florida State. Some of us might be unaware, But they’re not there just to stare.
This is the time when we thank all those teachers who were a bit too strict and pushed us just a tad further than we were willing to go. Thank all those classmates who gave us a sheet of paper or a pencil when we needed it the most. We thank you for the time you’ve put in the school and congratulate you for successfully completing 12 years of school.
I sometimes wonder what life awaits, From Central to Louisiana State. Whether it’s financial aid or a place to stay, So many sacrifices made to have a better fate. Never take the option of quitting, From Miami Hurricanes to Gainesville living. Many places to wonder and experience, Whether it’s a small town or the big city. Always strive for the best, never settle for less From Dade to UF. When the world of ours comes to an end, And really begins to hit us instead. We must know where our next journey begins Rest assured it’s something we won’t want to miss.
Match the Twins! By: Elisabet Carvajal John Santiago
Fez
Charles Cruz
Angel Garcia
Felipe Martinez
Clark Kent
Buzz Lightyear
Woody