Prioritizing Myself AB’s New Official Sport:

Tips for self-discipline in Esports

the new school year. Gamers deserve articles
too.

Introduction - Page 2 Back-to-School - Page 4

✦ e cineribus et ad astra ✦
SeptemBer • vol. 39, BacK-to-ScHool iSSue acton-BoXBorougH regional HigH ScHool www.thespectrumabrhs.com

Reviews of the Summer

Movie—Spider-Man: Far
From Home
My spidey senses are
tingling for some good
reviews.

Introduction - Page 2

ABRHS Bathroom, Foun-

tain, and Staircase Review
To pee or not to pee, that is
the question.

Back-to-School - Page 3

Guide to Freshman Year

The freshest rules for the
freshest men.

Back-to-School - Page 3

Don’t go down Senior Staircase, or else!

Love Doctor: Intro Serena Han / Co-Editor-in-Chief

There’s a new love doctor

in town! The Spectrum: Our Student-Run Newspaper
ism and the craft of writing, editing, mainstream ideas and showcase dif- and Finance team works with local
By neHa Saravanan ’22
Back-to-School - Page 3 Spectrum Staff
organizing and funding a newspaper. ferent writers’ perspectives and opin- businesses and finds funding for The
Members build on existing writing ions on various topics. Each writer is Spectrum, simultaneously improving
It’s 3 P.M. on a Thursday after- and analytical abilities, improve their challenged to put a unique spin on members’ marketing skills, commu-
noon. You’re taking a leisurely stroll organizational skills, forge bonds their work and display a strong voice, nication skills, confidence, and finan-
in the corridors of Upper South with others, and ultimately have a while still maintaining relevance to cial management. The Layout team
when you hear the overwhelming productive yet enjoyable time. Ms. the AB community. learns about industry design stan-
Back-to-School Shopping clacking of keyboards. You follow
your ears into Room 152W and find
Hammond and Ms. Kennedy, the The Off-Topic section contains dards, catering to clientele, creativity,
advisors of The Spectrum, help the articles that display student opinions and website design. Each group con-
Time to give Staples your yourself facing a number of fat cat staff ’s endeavors. As the chief staff in areas of relatability, guidance, and tributes what they learn in their roles
money. lamps, sleep-deprived students clad supports the rest of the staff, every- more. Writers in this section can have to benefitting The Spectrum.
in green, and your favorite snacks. body finds themselves juggling a nap- a more personal conversation with Students work with one another
You’re intrigued at first glance, as kin full of Trader Joe’s snacks to ac- the reader, and they have the freedom to improve their journalistic skills
Back-to-School - Page 4 you should be. company them on their assignments. to be satirical, random, or humorous. and also to gain information and ad-
The newspaper in your hands Writers start out by brainstorm- Art, comics, crosswords, and more vice from more experienced writers.
right now? This is The Spectrum. To ing article ideas, outlining a piece, are used to display student voices in In fact, The Spectrum has connections
some, it is an outlet of information, and then writing and revising with a unique and fun way. to professional journalists, who pro-
knowledge, and guidance. To others, the help of multiple editors. How- Lastly, the Mainspread section vide opportunities to further enrich
What I Wish I Knew it’s a club filled with hardworking
and passionate writers, photogra-
ever, not all articles have the same presents articles that fall under a members’ experience.
purpose. The newspaper is split into particular theme, which the staff de- Together, the various teams work
Some reflections on fresh- phers, editors, comic artists, finance different sections and offers a range cides upon before starting each issue. to publish five issues of The Spectrum
man year. managers, organizers, and more. of topics depending on the writer’s Although these articles vary stylisti- each year: the Back-to-School Issue
Members of The Spectrum would tell interests. cally, they always connect to that is- (the shortest of the five), Fall Is-
you it’s a group of people who work The News section contains ar- sue’s theme. sue, Winter Issue, Spring Issue, and
Back-to-School - Page 4 to assemble a thought-provoking ticles directly relevant to the Acton- The Spectrum is self-funded and Graduation Issue. The members’
product that spreads diverse perspec- Boxborough community. Articles fo- run by AB students. Thus, while writ- dedication, curiosity, and passion all
tives to AB students. cus on school news and town events, ers make up a majority of the group, contribute to the quality and caliber
The Spectrum covers everything including topics not covered any- editors, artists, Layout members, and of The Spectrum each print. Due to
from school events, community where else. The Reporting Team is a Publicity and Finance members all staff ’s efforts, readers are presented
English Books, Rated news, global dilemmas, and even group within the News section that play an equally important role. Edi- with information about their com-
reviews of various media (music, takes a community-wide topic of tors work behind the scenes to im- munity, news of the world around
If you can read, this article movies, etc.), but its overall goal is to interest and tries to investigate it in prove the clarity and effectiveness of them, and the opinions of their peers
is for you. inform and represent the students of depth and with nuance throughout articles, catching those pesky run-ons with every issue. Most importantly, it
AB. the year. for each and every article before it’s is thanks to the readers that The Spec-
Meetings take place on Thurs- The Forum section presents ar- printed. Photographers offer their trum staff can share their thoughts
Back-to-School - Page 4 days after school. During meetings, ticles that discuss the news on a skills for specific articles, enhancing and findings on valued issues within
The Spectrum staff explores journal- broader scale. These articles take words with visual art. The Publicity the community.
 Intro
Page 2 The Spectrum September 2017
2019

Letter from the EICs everything that they’ve person- The Spectrum Genevieve Hammond
By Serena Han ’20, Kirtana
ally learned from high school, Katherine Kennedy
Krishnakumar ’20, and An- including how to manage one’s Faculty Advisors
jali Raman ’20 Founded 1982
time, how to get special privileges,
Editors-in-Chief and—the most important question e cineribus et ad astra Contact Us
Unlike Phineas and Ferb, the of all—where the best water foun- 36 Charter Road
summer months at Acton-Box- tains are. We’ve also included the Serena Han Acton, MA 01720
borough do end, and this year, type of articles that readers will see
Kirtana Krishnakumar www.thespectrumabrhs.com
they whizzed past us before we in future seasonal issues, such as
were fully ready for the school movie reviews, local news report- Anjali Raman [email protected]
year ahead. In the midst of their ing, and satirical pieces. Editors-in-Chief Facebook and Instagram @theabspectrum
busy summers—filled with sum- Although we wish summer
mer camps, college tours, vaca- vacation could last longer, we Michelle Gong Copy Editors
tions, and the latest season of can’t help but be excited by The
Stranger Things—our staff worked Spectrum’s upcoming year. With
Chief Copy Editor Olivia Comolli, Katherine Gu, Elizabeth Howard,
Justin Shan
together to create a Back-to- Trader Joe’s snacks at our meet-
School Issue that we can all be ings’ round table, the guidance of Amber Li Staff
proud of. our two wonderful advisors Ms.
This issue, we’ve focused on Hammond and Ms. Kennedy, and
Emily Zhao Madigan Anderson, Anna Charisse, Annabella
Chief Layout Editors Chen, Kelsey Chen, Natalie Dawn, Ananya Gade,
questions that freshmen want an energetic staff, we can’t wait to Paolina Garro, Pratik Gazula, Joyce Gong, Emily
answered. Our writers cover show you what we have in store! Hiltunen, Alisa Khomiakova, Ritika Koirala, Di-

Prioritizing Myself
Teagan Smith vya Krishnan, Iris Li, Julia Olney, Ben Orr, Anna
Mainspread Editor Paradiso, Sonali Rai, Mila Rushkin, Neha Sara-
vanan, Supria Shroff, David Tsitrin, Charu Tyagi,
tual outstanding work requires Aadhiti Vallatharasu, Brandon Wu, Sophie Zhang,
By Sophie Zhang ’22 Michael Cheng
many more mistakes and exper- Christopher Sousounis, Rebecca Zhang, Supria
Spectrum Staff
Mainspread Article
imentation. As Ernest Heming- News Editor Shroff, Akshitha Maqtedar, Sydney Pascal, Jasmine
way previously said, “The first Wu, Jonathan Lin, Jessica Zhang
Mother Theresa once said, draft of anything is sh*t.”
“Yesterday is gone. Tomorrow Just a few months ago, I Neha Vijay Columnists
has not yet come. We have only found myself bingeing my fa- Forum Editor Katherine Chen, Julia Kuang, Vera Tsang
today. Let us begin.” However, vorite show instead of chipping
we often lack that initial mo- away at a major essay due the Layout Editors: Sarah Jin, Eileen Kou, Isaiah Lee,
tivation to start. We tend to following week. My brain rec- Prisha Dayal Amber Li, Jessica Zhang, Emily Zhao, Milena
procrastinate as an easy escape ognized the project’s impor- Off-Topic Editor Zhu
from our looming problems. tance, but I could not bear to
Rather than doing our work, we sacrifice my current comfort Francesca Servello
think about what we’re going to and safety. Flashing forward to
do tomorrow, like totally get- the day before the deadline, I
Anushka Wani
ting up at five A.M. and grind- still had to write the entire es- Publicity and Finance Managers
ing non-stop until it’s time to say, forcing me to resort to an
leave for school. It is much easi- all-nighter, coffee, and a frantic
er to imagine a solution than to email to the teacher begging prioritizing my future self and ageable pieces. A whole project Now, I can finally relax with-
carry it out, but when have we for an extension. The next day, her well-being. I get my assign- can stress anyone out, but by out constantly worrying about
ever kept the promise we gave I tried editing my essay during ments finished earlier before knowing what needs to be done the workload I haven’t dealt
ourselves last night? Instead, we study hall and lunch, but even they become urgent. I create the every day, I can make the work with.
become overwhelmed with our then, my final draft was a disas- best possible scenario for my fu- at hand more tangible. Spread- This might make avoiding
school workload and our self- ter. ture self so that I do not have to ing out my responsibilities di- procrastination sound easy.
discipline begins to falter, so Procrastination not only take a chance on the unknown vides my energy and anxiety In reality, perfecting the art of
first, we need to prioritize our physically hurt my body, but future. In short, I control what I into little bits as well. For ex- time management will definite-
future self ’s well-being. also mentally pained me. Regret know in the present. ample, would you rather read ly be a journey. Your school ex-
Personally, I use procrastina- about that essay stills rushes I first organize and list all two chapters a day for a week perience will be a bumpy, wind-
tion as a coping mechanism. I through my brain, nitpicking at my tasks, as this helps me fol- or rush through a book with ing road. Nevertheless, it’s like
avoid my responsibilities be- what I could have done better. low through with my responsi- only one day left? training a muscle—even when
cause the stress overwhelms If I had been self-disciplined bilities. Without this guide, my To avoid the pain of procras- exercising gives you sore legs
me. I fear the possibility of fail- then, I would have avoided a stress overwhelms me, and I tination, I do my work. Stress and sweaty armpits, you push
ing an assignment and momen- lot of stress and remorse. Now, resort to procrastination again. only heightens over time, so through because you know that
tarily give up. In my head, my having acknowledged the ex- Also, I divide bigger assign- when I manage my time well, in the end, it will strengthen
first try must be perfect, but ac- tent of that struggle, I work on ments into smaller, more man- my mental health improves. and benefit your future self.

Reviews of the Summer Movie—Spider-Man: Far from Home

By Francesca Servello ’22 Spider-Man: Homecoming got me into he exploited Peter’s loss of a father grace the screen as Peter Parker once ing the same impact in my living
Marvel in the first place, and I want- figure, even blaming Peter for Tony’s again, hoping the cast would bring room, and I can only dream of how
and Anushka Wani ’21
ed Far From Home to be just as good death. His motives for evil were un- me joy after the heart-wrenching it would’ve looked if I had seen it
Publicity and Finance Managers as the first movie. It lived up to—and derstandable, yet repetitive. I wasn’t events of Endgame. Nevertheless, in 3D. I was constantly being pulled
Forum Article even exceeded—my expectations. a fan of Tony Stark’s mistakes com- while the film had the lighthearted- back and forth through illusion and
Spider-Man: Far From Home, For starters, the cinematography ing back to bite him and his loved ness that I expected, Peter and the reality, feeling just as lost and con-
which takes place shortly after End- was beautiful. From the Venetian ca- ones for the sixth time. audience also had to deal with a lot fused as Peter did in the film.
game, begins with a Milton High nals to the Charles Bridge in Prague, The movie’s mid-credit scene of emotional baggage. The comedy in the film was
student-made memoriam for the every shot added to the story. During was, in the nicest way possible, Torn by his responsibility to great. However, any humor with
dead Avengers. The film then cuts Mysterio’s illusions, I found myself horrifying. I had wanted J. Jonah save the world and his desire to be MJ fell on deaf ears for me. I found
to Peter Parker sharing his plan to just as entranced as Peter was. Jameson to become part of the a normal teenager, Peter Parker just myself getting annoyed with her
confess his love to MJ while on their The movie also did not disap- Marvel Cinematic Universe, but wants to enjoy his vacation in Eu- character and her constant “I’m not
school vacation to Paris. However, point in exploring Peter and Ned’s certainly not like this. Mysterio rope. I could easily empathize with like other girls” attitude. The ship
everything is interrupted by certain friendship, fully displaying their an- really had to ruin Peter’s life from Peter regarding the immense pres- was cute, and I’m glad they got to-
monsters called Elementals. Nick tics. Jon Watts, co-writer and direc- the grave. The emotional distress sure he had on his shoulders. gether, but I just didn’t like her char-
Fury and SHIELD, the organiza- tor of the film, knows these charac- this had caused me was immeasur- While Peter was a relatable char- acter as a whole. While Peter was
tion that controls the Avengers, in- ters well, and it shows. able. In the wise words of Amelia acter, so was Mysterio. Like Franc- very relatable, it seemed like MJ’s
sist that Peter fight the Elementals Any joy I felt from these reunions, Kim, with whom I saw this movie, esca, I found myself understanding personality was trying too hard to
even though Peter just wants to however, was robbed by the constant “Frick.” the motives of Quentin Beck, Mys- appeal to the audience, making her
spend time with his best friend Ned reminders of Endgame’s casualties, Overall, I’d give this movie a terio’s plainclothes counterpart, an unrelatable character.
and his crush MJ. Relentless, Fury the subtle reference to the elusive 9/10, half a point taken off for although his extreme approach All in all, I highly recommend
introduces him to Mysterio—a man Uncle Ben, and the constant disrup- the lack of a good credits song like seemed unwarranted. I had no this movie, especially if you are a
from “another Earth” who can help tions of Peter’s school vacation. “Blitzkrieg Bop” by The Ramones idea Mysterio was set up to be the Tom Holland fan like myself. It is
defeat the Elementals before they Though he created much conflict in Homecoming, and another half villain—probably because I didn’t 100% worth it to see the movie in
take over Peter’s world. Everything himself, I loved Mysterio. I walked for the nature of Mysterio’s mo- watch any trailers before seeing the theaters, and I’m sure the 3D ver-
takes a turn for the worse, however, into the movie knowing his role as tives. Other than that, it was a won- movie—but I was shocked when he sion is phenomenal. I would rate
when EDITH, the AI Tony left Peter an antagonist from the Spider-Man derful experience that every level of revealed himself. this movie 9/10, with a point off
before he died, falls into the wrong comics, but the faux, projection-gen- Marvel fan will enjoy. I constantly fell for the illusions for MJ’s character. That said, it
hands, and a new villain enters the erated affection he showed Peter re- in this movie, not only in the plot, was a wholesome experience that
arena… ally fooled me. Mysterio’s power of Anushka’s Opinions: but in the graphics as well. The both pulled at my heartstrings and
illusion was haunting and enchant- When I heard that Spider-Man: special effects are what made this gave me reason to laugh. It was the
Francesca’s Opinions: ing, but he was extremely effective in Far from Home was coming out, I movie worth seeing in theaters; I perfect push-off for Phase 4 of the
I had high hopes for this movie. identifying his targets’ weaknesses; couldn’t wait for Tom Holland to can’t possibly imagine them hav- MCU.
 Back-to-School
September 2019 The Spectrum Page 3

ABRHS Bathroom, Fountain, and Staircase Review

bathroom due to the long lines; This one is rarely used, so it won’t two types: the water-bottle refill- on the first floor next to the lobby.
By Anushka Wani ’21 go to the one in Upper West to be very crowded at all. Next to that ing types and the regular drinking Other than that one, I would just
Publicity and Finance Manager avoid being late. Avoid the Lower staircase, there is a window that fountains. Of the drinking foun- stay away from any of the water
Mainspread Article East bathroom at all costs. During looks over the tennis courts. It has tains, one set is across from the li- fountains in the school. They either
The transition from R.J. Grey to lunch, if one bathroom—usually a cute little nook that you can sit in brary, one is both Upper and Lower taste bad or are just too warm.
ABRHS can be daunting, especially the one near the band room—has with a friend during a free period. West, and one set are on either Anyways, I hope this guide is
due to the major upgrade in size. a long line, try the other one. In Nearby, a small hallway to the left side of the cafeteria. Meanwhile, helpful for your high school experi-
Because the high school’s layout is general, using the bathroom during offers another staircase leading to there is a refill station in Upper and ence! It’s quite nice knowing where
so different, it’s tough to figure out passing time almost guarantees that the auditorium. This one is used a Lower East, as well as by the main things are in the school, instead of
where the numerous water foun- you’ll be late to class, so try to get bit, but not as much as the main ar- entrance and inside the cafeteria. having to stumble upon them along
tains, bathrooms, and staircases are. there early, or leave your backpack teries. The last staircase in East can The best water fountain is the one the way.
However, with this guide, you’ll be in class before you go. Other than be found if you follow the hallway
able to navigate the high school like that, it comes down to where you the East bathrooms are in and take
a pro! are and how fast you need to get to a right at the end of that hallway.
First things first: the layout of a bathroom. There you’ll find another staircase.
the school. The school is split up The second most important thing This is the most crowded of the
into four major sections: North, is the staircases. You’ve probably al- thre.
South, East and West. Once you ready noticed the Senior Staircase, The last few staircases are more
enter the school through the front as well as the two main staircases in hidden, leading to the Stearns (Up-
doors, the West wing is on your left East and West. These are the most per) Gym. If you go to West Com-
North is straight ahead, and if you popular. Always stay on the right mons and enter the big double doors
go right, you’ll pass through South when you go up or down any stair- at the bottom of the ramp, you’ll
on your way to East. As you wan- case, and there won’t be accidents find a staircase going up to North.
der these wings, you’ll probably caused by students bumping into Once you go up there, you can turn
stumble across a staircase to the each other when they go in differ- left and open a smaller set of doors
second floor. Once you’re up there, ent directions. There are more over- to another, smaller staircase. This
the layout is the same as the first looked staircases at the back corners is not a main staircase, but it can
floor (with the exception of North of both West and East. Another hid- still get crowded at the end of the
being on the third floor, obviously). den staircase gets you to Upper West day. The last staircase is located
The most important thing to from North, and it’s one of the best where you enter the gym area by
know are the locations of the bath- ways to get to the library from the the locker rooms, and it leads up to
rooms. On the first floor, you can cafeteria. Exit the cafeteria on the the Upper Gym too. This staircase
find one on each side of the cafete- side of the Regan Gym, and walk is usually only used by gym classes,
ria, as well as on each floor of the straight. Just before the small set of so it is usually pretty empty.
East and West wings. There are also stairs that leads to the school lobby, The last few staircases are more
bathrooms across from the library take a right and walk through the hidden and located by the locker
and more in the fitness center, along single door at the end. The staircase rooms in Lower West, and they
with a few single stalls in Stearns leads to the Stearns Gym, making it both lead up to opposite sides of the
Gym in Upper West, and also some the best staircase to use to get to the Stearns Gym. These staircases are
in the locker rooms below. library from the first floor. usually only used by gym classes, so
Now, certain bathrooms are There are three other staircases they are reasonably empty.
better than others: I wouldn’t rec- in East. One is at the very end of Last but not least, we have our
the hallway right by the elevators. beloved water fountains! There are A map with all of AB’s bathrooms, fountains, and staircases.
ommend going to the Lower West Emily Zhao / Layout Editor

Guide To Freshman Year ing healthy is essential; you have to

Love Doctor: Intro your basic necessities and this
By Jessica Zhang ’22 of your activities and deadlines.
By Julia Kuang ’22 guy you’re “kinda into,” I would
get sleep, eat a healthy diet, drink Don’t leave all your work to the last
Spectrum Staff Love Nest Columnist
water, exercise, and do all that good minute; it’s so much easier to do a strongly recommend putting your-
Mainspread Article stuff. High school is a time to live, portion each day, even if it’s just Off-Topic Article self first, especially in a life or death
Freshman year horror stories not just survive. Take care of your for fifteen minutes. Make things Hey guys, I’m Julia Kuang, but situation. However, sharing your
always begin with scenes of giant physical health with nutrition, and easier for yourself. Procrastination here I’m known as DR. KUANG. beloved fries with this dude could
seniors jostling underclassmen bolster your mental health with will get you nowhere and will only (Living up to the asian expecta- really push your relationship to a
during passing time and ninth friends and extracurriculars that trap you into a cycle of not getting tion, am I right? Mom, please be whole new level. So I guess you
graders running through hallways, you actually enjoy. things done. Starting your work is proud of me) After the disgusting gotta balance the situation for your-
trying, but failing, to reach class on Naturally, no matter how much often the hardest part, but don’t apology by Balwant Singh—for- self, even though it’s technically my
time. Admittedly, most freshmen you ignore it, your social life can push it aside. Nike knows what’s mer senior and love doctor—in last job to answer this for you. Sucks for
experience such situations at least pop up and punch you in the face. up: just do it. year’s Graduation Issue, it is up to you!
once; nevertheless, changes, big or Almost all high schoolers drift Even though we tend to pro- me to re-establish and uphold the
small, are inevitable in life, and the apart from some old friends. Al- crastinate, that doesn’t stop us from esteemed profession of loveology. Q: I, a senior, fell in love with a
transition from junior high to high though this may sting, people move thinking about—or, more accurate- Unfortunately, I know for a fact tiny freshman. Our love is forbidden….
school eventually passes. Even on, and so must you. Luckily, high ly, obsessing over—our futures. But that I will regret writing this in the Instead of talking to our parents, we
with all the stress over schoolwork school offers many opportunities let me tell you something: few peo- near future, so it is safe to assume decided to get married. But I killed a
and extracurriculars, most students for making new friends. For exam- ple actually have their whole lives that I am hella fake. Definitely not man and am now exiled from my be-
emerge stronger despite the chal- ple, without the structured teams of together (if you do, please tell me as bad as Balwant, but I literally loved and her land. We plan to commit
lenges. Still, a few tips couldn’t R.J. Grey, you’ll likely encounter a your secret), so thinking far into the asked friends to make up questions mutual suicide. Did I mention I’ve only
hurt, so here’s a guide to freshman greater number of people in your future can be overwhelming. Feel for me to answer. Have fun reading known her for 3 days? What do I do?
year from a recently retired fresh- classes. Of course, experiences with free to keep post-high school plans this, and good luck to all your love A: Ah, spinning off Romeo and
man. friends can vary from person to per- on the radar, but focus on freshman adventures and endeavors! Juliet, the timeless classic. For those
Ironically, many ninth graders son, but as long as you spend time year first. Take it step by step, year of you in freshman year, get ready
stress themselves out by anticipat- with people whom you enjoy being by year. Q: I love this guy, but he got a hair- for the most riveting, heart-wrench-
ing more stress than there is. The with, you can have a great social High school is a rite of passage cut so now he’s UGLY! ing, overhyped story about love
number one trick to reducing stress life. that people experience together. It A: Well babe, I don’t think you EVER. 10/10 would recommend.
is to stop comparing yourself to oth- Given that maintaining a posi- can seem intimidating at first, but really love him, so I don’t know Looking at this short but sweet
ers. Teachers and friends have likely tive social life, exercising, com- the more you discover along the what else to tell you other than modernized summary, Romeo and
told you this, and you have likely pleting schoolwork, and attending way, the more comfortable you’ll build a trans-universe time machine Juliet is a pretty screwed up story.
brushed it off. Don’t. It’s important extracurriculars all seem necessary, become. Hopefully, some of these using radioactive uranium-235, a Friends, don’t follow their example.
to focus on you—not others; so you will realize how important time tips will help you find ways to work rotating ultraspeed 100km long cyl- You know how in “Love Story”,
much time can get wasted obsess- management is—and how difficult past the tough times and still have inder, an enormous load of money, Taylor Swift very much alludes to
ing over others’ achievements and it is to create your own system. I fun. So good luck, and enjoy your Albert Einstein’s brain, a banana, Romeo and Juliet? It’s setting an
feeling bad about yourself. People suggest maintaining some sort of freshman year! and several other miscellaneous unrealistic and somewhat toxic ro-
learn at different paces with unique a calendar to visually lay out all items that I can’t reveal (the govern- mance stereotype, and NO ONE
techniques. Instead of comparing, ment said so) just so that you can go should actually follow the footsteps
work to find your optimal learning back in time and murder his barber of these two because then they will
style. As you hone your study skills, so he doesn’t cut his hair and can go make horrible decisions that they
know that you will make mistakes, back to being the mediocre-looking will regret very much later or die
and in making mistakes, you will guy that you think is mildly attrac- before then, which is very stupid, so
figure out how you learn best. Little tive but never really worked up the DON’T BE LIKE ROMEO AND
by little—you’ll find yourself mak- guts to talk to (otherwise you guys JULIET.
ing fewer mistakes if you focus on would be dating already).
self-improvement. And that’s all I got… for now.
The trick to avoiding the com- Q: I’ve been into this guy, but I don’t Hit me up with more questions
parison trap? Live a healthy lifestyle really know if I should share fries with through my school email! I would
to sustain you throughout the year. him because that’s kind of a big step. greatly appreciate some love and
When I first started freshman year, A: Quite the relatable situation. support because even the Love
I prioritized schoolwork over health Food is very important for the hu- Doctor needs some love.
so much that I never felt energized School supplies for the freshmen newbie. man body, as it provides nutrients
enough to get through the day. Be- Amber Li / Layout Editor and energy. In choosing between Julia <3
 Back-to-School
Page 4 The Spectrum September 2019

Back-To-School Shopping By emilY Hiltunen ’22

Spectrum Staff

AB’s New Official Sport: Esports What I Wish I Knew

Jessica Shen recalls, “[Mr. Mar- a senior project paper where she That being said, make sure to
By micHael cHeng ’20 By SYdneY paScal ’22
tin] actually reached out to me and theorized that “[t]he reason adults relax and have fun! Not everything
News Editor stated that he was a fan of esports don’t like video games is because Spectrum Staff in freshman year should be about
News Article himself…He offered to work with they aren’t willing to learn about Mainspread Article school. For some, adopting this care-
me to merge the club into the Ath- them. There is a generational di- Many freshmen entering high free mindset can be quite difficult. I,
AB’s newest sport does not take letics Department.” vide…which makes [them] harder school are overwhelmed by the for one, tend to stress about the little
place on a track, field, or court, but While attempts to reach Mr. to understand.” daunting change. However, the things, causing me to be extremely
instead within the magical confines Martin for comment during the It may take years for these di- transition will certainly go smooth- overworked throughout freshman
of a computer lab. For the modern- summer were unsuccessful, Shen vides to be resolved. In the mean- er if you know a few things—most year. Still, I tried to push through
day Colonials, the new battlefield is said that he was instrumental in time, Zhao and his teammates of which I did not—going into the because I believed it was the correct
digital, and esports is the new fron- introducing the idea to other parts are content letting the team only start of the year. Once you get set- way to approach my workload.
tier. of the administration. Now that speaking to willing listeners. Above tled, freshman year will definitely While you should always work
For the past two years, the AB the merger has been approved, the all, Shen stresses that “the main fo- be memorable. hard, you also need to take a break
esports team has operated as an esports trophies—displayed side by cus of the club should be [to fos- Generally speaking, every teach- to prevent getting burnt out. We of-
after-school club, but it will be ab- side with those won in traditional ter] a place where all the kids feel er has a different style and method ten believe that when we put more
sorbed into the Athletics Depart- athletics—beg the question: Should included and…can feel proud of of teaching, and sometimes, theirs time into our work, we will do a
ment as an official sport this fall. esports be considered sports? their achievements.” better job. I harbored this mental-
might not work for you specifically. If
Speaking publicly this past January, On this point, even Shen, who They continue to make strides ity—almost every day, I would go
you’re struggling in a class, don’t be
Athletic Director Steve Martin re- dedicated her senior project to- to these ends. Zhao and Rainbow home and do homework until I
afraid to ask for help. I would recom-
marked that the move would help wards making esports an official Six Siege team captain Nick Chafy fell asleep. Ironically, it only took
mend that you email your teachers
them reach “a group of students sport, has some reservations. “I (’20) are considering their own se- so long because I was overworking
first because they’re always willing to
who are really looking to be a part nior project—to build a dedicated myself. I couldn’t focus after sitting
think it’s mostly a sport. It’s like help. If a teacher is not really work-
of something, but haven’t been able “athletics lab” for the team to in class all day and leaving no time
Steve Martin put it; it’s a spectator ing out for you though, talk to your
to yet.” practice in, which would house six for friends or myself. I had become
sport where people like watching it, counselor. I know people who have
Club founder Jessica Shen (’19) desktop computers that won at the
like other sports.” However, Shen switched out of classes or changed stressed, unhealthy, and unhappy.
echoed a similar sentiment, stating LoL tournament in June.
ultimately says, “The way the team their schedules, and it’s not a big deal. By the end of the year, I
that she believed it would create Like any high school sport, the
works is a lot like a sports team, but In junior high, counselors aren’t as in- learned that if I had taken breaks,
a place for those like herself, who esports team faces the annual up-
I’m not necessarily saying esports is volved in many of the students lives, I would’ve worked faster, been hap-
“don’t really like playing sports” heaval of graduating seniors—of
a sport. I’m just saying it functions but in high school, they are here to pier, and relaxed more. Breaks are
but “still [want] to be in the com- the five primary players on last
like one.” help, and many people do seek their necessary and productive. Even if
munity that a sports team builds.” year’s LoL team, three have al-
Regardless of this semantic guidance. Building a relationship the work is important, your health
That community, for Shen, was the
ready graduated. But in addition,
distinction, the esports team is de- with your counselor is important be- should always come first.
esports have a natural propensity
esports team. termined to make the most of the cause as they get to know you, they All in all, this year is a period of
for constant change: “[There are]
Technically, the esports team opportunity that it has been given. can provide more and more advice growth and experimentation. The
thousands of [rule] changes a year.
is actually three distinct teams The most immediate effects include in situations like these. If there is no best piece of advice I can give is
And then, every single year, they
competing in three very distinct greater administrative support and way to work around a bad fit with a this: nothing is ever as big of a deal
revamp the whole game…because
games—Overwatch, League of access to the department’s annual teacher, try to stay positive, use all the as you think it is in the moment.
they don’t want the game to get
Legends (also known as “LoL”), budget by requiring each member possible resources that you have, and Make freshman year as fun and
boring…It’s meant to be like this
and Rainbow Six Siege—all with- to pay $500 in athletic fees. Both show your teacher that you’re putting memorable as you can, because it’s
cosmic treadmill run,” explains
in the framework of the nation- Shen and Zhao also hope that the in effort. going to be a great year!
Zhao.
wide High School Esports League change can provide the team with The spectre of boredom leaves
(HSEL).
All three AB teams have been
successful from the onset: they
greater recognition within the
school community, recognition that
could help to de-stigmatize com-
video games prone to more seismic
shifts as well.
“I know League of Legends
English Books, Rated but don’t you DARE tell Lennie.
each qualified for their respective petitive esports. is going to be a dead game in 10 By reBecca ZHang ’22
playoff-esque invitational this June. My Rating: +3 points for
People often criticize video years,” says Zhao, “And that’s how Spectrum Staff diverse(ish) characters, but -1
Two made the semifinals, and one games for being unproductive and it is. Our esports team is called an Off-Topic Article
won it all. point for being written by another
having graphic depictions of vio- esports team, not a League of Leg-
“We got the summer invitation- Freshman English has some of “John.” 2/10.
lence, and while team members say ends team…because esports is go-
al invite, we ran through the tour- they mostly try to block out the neg- ing to constantly evolve. It’s like a the best books that I have read thus
nament like a truck, and yeah, we far. A few are certainly ~question- Homer’s The Odyssey: Big boy
ativity, Zhao actually wrote his col- survival-of-the-fittest type thing.”
just won,” summarized LoL cap- able~. Nevertheless, each novel—as Odysseus wants to go home, but he
lege essay on his experiences with This holds for the infantile in-
tain Eric Zhao (’20), who is ranked great or tiresome as it may be— fo- keeps trying to get that cLOuT and
such attitudes. dustry as well, and perhaps there is
as one of the top 150 players of cuses on transitions to new worlds, screws up big time x100. A fine les-
“Sometimes, people don’t know no better example than the HSEL.
any age in North America for that mirroring your own journey during son in learning not to tick off a god.
that competitive video games are The private, for-profit company is
game. pretty cool and developed and are freshman year. English I is a super #weirdflexbutok
rapidly expanding; they announced
While these successes helped just good for you.” a slew of new game offerings just a fun course overall, and as cheesy as My Rating: +7 points for Penelope
to legitimize the team, perhaps an There has yet to be a scientific few weeks ago. At the same time, it sounds, you will definitely grow a stalling her marriage to a suitor for
even greater legitimacy came from or cultural consensus on whether they revealed that they were no lot as both a reader and a writer. Nev- years while her husband buffs his ego,
the unexpected outreach from Mr. video games are in fact a net posi- longer licensed to host League of ertheless, a little guidance is always but -4 points for the 5,000 new char-
Martin. tive, but for her part, Shen wrote Legends competitions—a mere helpful. So, as you head into your acters introduced on each page. 3/10.
six weeks after AB had won what freshman year, wide-eyed and wary,
turned out to be the final one. here are (totally accurate and super Charles Dickens’ A Tale of Two
Given that this will already be serious) one-sentence summaries and Cities: R E S U R R E C T I O N .
their third league in four years, ratings of your first year’s novels: My Rating: +15 points for the
it’s perhaps no surprise that when chances that two characters look
asked about his hopes for the John Knowles’ A Separate Peace: exactly the same (coincidence? I
team’s future, Zhao responded In the classic bildungsroman novel, an THINK NOT.) 15/10.
somewhat uncertainly. older Gene reflects on his high school
“I [wouldn’t] necessarily say years in which his immaturity (AKA Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mocking-
I want it to be flourishing. I just hormonal, impulsive decisions) causes bird:
want it to be there, you know. I his friend’s murder. Oopsies? Technically another bildung-
want it to be present. I just want it My Rating: +3 points for a good sroman novel where liTtLe gIrL
to be stable.” attempt at spreading a message, and lEaRns aBOut bIg woRLd, but it’s
One of the greatest benefits to an extra +2 points for the real star actually just: Boo? Is that you?
the team becoming part of Athlet- of the show, the secret love story My Rating: +7 points for how
ics Department might be just that: (#GINNY4LIFE). 5/10. cute and cuddly Boo Radley secretly
stability. If nothing else, the change is, and an additional +97 points for
Rainbow Six Siege’s coastline map. could allow for it to stay afloat in John Steinbeck’s Of Mice and not being written by an old white
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esports’ tumultuous waters. Men: The American Dream is dead… dude, whoop whoop! 104/10.