Under the tree - Teens in Print
Under the tree - Teens in Print
Under the tree - Teens in Print
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2 / BOSTON TEENS IN PRINT / nov/dec 2012 / bostontip.com•••••• •••••• Volume★★ContentsPage 11 … Open<strong>in</strong>g day jittersPresent<strong>in</strong>g our first-ever middle school page.Pages 14-15 … News you can useKnapp <strong>in</strong>terns learn journalism firsthand.Page 17 … Hair to <strong>the</strong> throneWhy weave is queen.Page 19 … Top dogsCan<strong>in</strong>es beat cats as country’s favorite pets.Page 22 … Spend<strong>in</strong>g qualitytime with Mr. SquarePantsSpongeBob’s goofy teen appeal.Page 23 … HooplaOne young woman’s basketball obsession.COVER: AFH art by Carol Foster★MEET THE STAFF.....12-13<strong>the</strong> wall........24AFH photo by Jennifer ThaiAFH art by Julie Echeverri2211( )Sections14-15AFH photo by Kach<strong>in</strong>a Vallelycover story, con’t..........3-5wassup <strong>in</strong> school............6,7<strong>the</strong> future file...................8abroad view........................9help l<strong>in</strong>e............................10first person s<strong>in</strong>gular....10<strong>the</strong> middle school page..11newspr<strong>in</strong>t...................14, 15friends & family...............16fashion five-o....................17culture club...............18-20emotional rescue............21a&e.....................................22<strong>the</strong> sport<strong>in</strong>g life..............23VIII, No. 39Art/PhotographyArtists for HumanityStaff EditorsShanique LewisDennis MembahMarmar<strong>in</strong> NasirahmadShanae SaddlerMussuba SamatiPenda SeckStaff WritersBrianna BannisterAmadou BarrySherley BelizaireLa`Neece ByrdFanta DiakiteMouctar DiakiteGivona J. DietzFrantz Sousky EtienneIlma GolemiRalph T. KarnuahNenser KruaJalayah LawrenceAudrey NgankamLizandro NogueiraIeisha SampsonJalene SanchezTenneh SesayAnna XieJamal YoungAlexandra ZuluagaContribut<strong>in</strong>g WritersJulian BastidasSheridan CooperPaola FlorencioCarol<strong>in</strong> Bido InfanteJamila JallohDejvi KroiDavid LevyGeorg<strong>in</strong>a LouisMayel<strong>in</strong> Brea OrtizKalise OsulaXhorxhia PapaJocelyn PerezHeaven RedaTelisha RutledgeTHE BOSTON GLOBERobert M. Powers, AdvisorIrene Mauch, TiP Production DirectorRon Williams, TiP DesignerWRITEBOSTONBetty Southwick, DirectorTiP Coord<strong>in</strong>atorRic Kahn
cover storyCont<strong>in</strong>ued from page 1for fear of be<strong>in</strong>g wrong. Here, you’ll fall beh<strong>in</strong>d if you don’t show your full self. I worked hard andfocused on my goals.America brought out <strong>the</strong> real Carol<strong>in</strong>, <strong>the</strong> one I didn’t know existed, <strong>the</strong> strong one, <strong>the</strong> onethat does everyth<strong>in</strong>g she can to thrive.I want to be a doctor. My aunt, a cardiologist <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> D.R., <strong>in</strong>spired me. It was nice to see herhelp o<strong>the</strong>rs whe<strong>the</strong>r <strong>the</strong>y had money or not.America has given me so many good th<strong>in</strong>gs — like friends whom I consider bro<strong>the</strong>rs andsisters from a different mo<strong>the</strong>r. Like ly<strong>in</strong>g down <strong>in</strong> Harambee Park <strong>in</strong> Dorchester and hav<strong>in</strong>g somuch fun with friends that we don’t notice <strong>the</strong> time go by.Even though I may not have a mango <strong>tree</strong> here to spend <strong>the</strong> afternoons under, I do have thatspecial park where I can ignore <strong>the</strong> time and dream about where my sacrifices will take me. ■Special Series:True colorsIn search of <strong>the</strong>AmericanDreamBy Georg<strong>in</strong>a Louis // Contribut<strong>in</strong>g WriterGoal: to become a movie actress.AFH photo by Jennifer ThaiAFH art by Khari PolkI sat on <strong>the</strong> liv<strong>in</strong>g room floor with my whole family wait<strong>in</strong>g for <strong>the</strong> Miss Universe pageantto start. Smell<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> fresh popcorn that just came out of <strong>the</strong> stove. Hear<strong>in</strong>g my friends fromnext door rush<strong>in</strong>g to go to <strong>the</strong>ir homes, because <strong>the</strong> grand event was about to start.This was a huge occasion for my country, Venezuela, but especially to me, s<strong>in</strong>ce as a littlekid I always wanted to be an actress.I grew up watch<strong>in</strong>g on TV that <strong>the</strong> models who used to represent Venezuela <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> pageantwere so different from me. They had healthy white sk<strong>in</strong> with a shade of p<strong>in</strong>k, blond hair, andblue eyes. Meanwhile, I have sk<strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> color of chocolate.I also saw this <strong>in</strong> Venezuela’s movies and novelas. That’s when I started to get confusedand questioned if my country was fac<strong>in</strong>g racism.I remember go<strong>in</strong>g out <strong>in</strong> my neighborhood and look<strong>in</strong>g at my fa<strong>the</strong>r with his friends dr<strong>in</strong>k<strong>in</strong>gbeer <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> park<strong>in</strong>g lot. All those different faces — men’s sk<strong>in</strong> color as black as coffee,and o<strong>the</strong>rs caramel, and still o<strong>the</strong>rs like milk.Why didn’t <strong>the</strong>y show this on TV? Why didn’t <strong>the</strong>y present all <strong>the</strong> beautiful true colors thatour country had?My sister, who had visited here, used to tell me: “In America, you can be an actress.” “InAmerica, sk<strong>in</strong> color doesn’t matter.” “In America, you can be whatever you want.”I started to believe this could actually be true, that <strong>in</strong> America <strong>the</strong>re is equality. I usedto watch American movies and music videos and I noticed that <strong>the</strong>re were many people ofdifferent colors who were successful. I started to feel hopeful that <strong>in</strong> America I could be anactress, that I would have more opportunities, which is why I came here <strong>in</strong> 2007.But after that, I realized it was not like I thought it would be. I saw that you could also faceracism here. When I went to middle school, I was surprised that all of my classmates didn’task, “Where are you from?” Instead, <strong>the</strong>y assumed: “You’re from <strong>the</strong> D.R., right?”On <strong>the</strong> weekends, I work at a local Subway shop with a woman from a different country.One day, while mak<strong>in</strong>g sandwiches, I asked her if she thought <strong>the</strong> American Dream existed.She said she was still try<strong>in</strong>g to achieve it.She told me that she came to America to be a successful woman, s<strong>in</strong>ce she said womenare not allowed to do anyth<strong>in</strong>g worthwhile back home. She wanted to prove <strong>the</strong>m wrong.I thought, “So do I.” I also want to prove my people wrong. I want to show <strong>the</strong>m that I cansucceed. I can be an actress. I can be a superstar, regardless of my sk<strong>in</strong> color. I want toshow my country, and this one, too, that sk<strong>in</strong> color is not an obstacle. ■bostontip.com / nov/dec 2012 / BOSTON TEENS IN PRINT / 3
4 / BOSTON TEENS IN PRINT / nov/dec 2012 / bostontip.comcover con’tThe big stress has goneBy Dejvi Kroi // Contribut<strong>in</strong>g WriterGoal: to work <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> bus<strong>in</strong>ess world.Special Series:In search of <strong>the</strong>AmericanDreamMy first thought was, “F<strong>in</strong>ally, I arrived at <strong>the</strong> freedom place, <strong>the</strong> one with <strong>the</strong> most opportunities.”When I came here <strong>in</strong> 2010, <strong>the</strong> Chicago airport was very busy. While <strong>the</strong> people <strong>in</strong> Albania like to dress fancy so <strong>the</strong>y can show off, <strong>the</strong>different Americans wore pajamas and sneakers.While walk<strong>in</strong>g through <strong>the</strong> airport <strong>in</strong> Albania to get on my plane, I noticed <strong>the</strong> dust and dirt around me and <strong>the</strong> smell of sweat. Albaniansthrow <strong>the</strong>ir trash anywhere. Here, everybody uses recycl<strong>in</strong>g b<strong>in</strong>s.While driv<strong>in</strong>g here <strong>in</strong> my cous<strong>in</strong>’s big van, I saw huge roads with five lanes on one side and five on <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r.In Albania, you see narrow, bumpy roads, where it’s a challenge to drive without gett<strong>in</strong>g dizzy.F<strong>in</strong>ally arriv<strong>in</strong>g at my cous<strong>in</strong>’s home, I saw a beautiful wooden house that was different than ones <strong>in</strong> Albania, wheredwell<strong>in</strong>gs are made of rocks and are freez<strong>in</strong>g because of <strong>the</strong> lack of heat. Go<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>side <strong>the</strong> warm house, I thought:“This is liv<strong>in</strong>g.”Then school time came. Driv<strong>in</strong>g up to <strong>the</strong> school, I was overwhelmed with happ<strong>in</strong>ess. This place was differentthan <strong>the</strong> build<strong>in</strong>gs <strong>in</strong> Albania, which are so small and old. This one was big and brand new and surroundedby fields, while <strong>in</strong> Albania <strong>the</strong> schools are bordered by <strong>tree</strong>s that look like old men with <strong>the</strong>ir heads downbecause of <strong>the</strong> trash that collects at <strong>the</strong>ir roots.Inside, <strong>the</strong> big hallways were like Albanian soccer fields. All <strong>the</strong> teachers were so friendly with <strong>the</strong> students,while <strong>in</strong> Albania <strong>the</strong> teachers th<strong>in</strong>k that <strong>the</strong>y are on top of you and never show that much respectto students.On <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r side of th<strong>in</strong>gs, weeks and months passed and none of my family members got anyjobs. We were disappo<strong>in</strong>ted because we thought that <strong>the</strong> jobs would have been so easy to get here.Every day my bro<strong>the</strong>r used to go out and make applications for my parents, but no one accepted<strong>the</strong>m because of <strong>the</strong> language.Then some of my fa<strong>the</strong>r’s friends promised us that <strong>the</strong>y were go<strong>in</strong>g to help us <strong>in</strong> Boston, so wehad to move. Now we are here and everyth<strong>in</strong>g is better. Both my parents have found work. Thebig stress has gone.I miss my grandparents, and my beautiful city, Berat, with a castle right <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> center of town.But overall I am happy.This is because for me, <strong>the</strong> American Dream is <strong>the</strong> American Reality. America has a lot of opportunitiesfor my future: go to college, f<strong>in</strong>d a job <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> bus<strong>in</strong>ess world, have a good life. ■Blessed with citizenshipBy Penda Seck // Staff EditorGoal: to become an actress and writer.To become a U.S. citizen was not my ambition <strong>in</strong> life, but I learned that no dest<strong>in</strong>y will fall to <strong>the</strong> groundif it is meant for you. In this case, it was better to th<strong>in</strong>k that you had no chance than to be disappo<strong>in</strong>ted.Citizenship is a bundle of rights, primarily political participation <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> life of <strong>the</strong> community, <strong>the</strong> right tovote, and <strong>the</strong> right to receive certa<strong>in</strong> protections.Liv<strong>in</strong>g without citizenship is to be a slave to society’s obligations. In my country, Gu<strong>in</strong>ea, I did not have <strong>the</strong>chance to fully exercise my rights, like freedom of speech.I thought that life would not give me a second chance to learn a new culture and have <strong>the</strong> same rights as people <strong>in</strong><strong>the</strong> U.S. I did not th<strong>in</strong>k <strong>the</strong>y would welcome me with open arms and share <strong>the</strong>ir liberties with me as one of <strong>the</strong>ir children.The first time my mo<strong>the</strong>r took us to apply for citizenship, my chest started beat<strong>in</strong>g like my heart would fall to <strong>the</strong> floor. Fearof <strong>the</strong> unknown. But when we entered <strong>the</strong> crowded Boston Garden on September 11 to be sworn <strong>in</strong> as citizens, I saw people withsmil<strong>in</strong>g faces who welcomed us.Be<strong>in</strong>g a citizen of <strong>the</strong> U.S. is like giv<strong>in</strong>g me a breath of life when I didn’t have any. Go<strong>in</strong>g forward, I should take advantage of greater opportunities,like education, as a resolution to struggles.Because I’m now blessed with citizenship, I will hold onto it with my 10 f<strong>in</strong>gers and make a difference, be <strong>the</strong> voice for those who don’t have one. ■
A trip to <strong>the</strong> mo<strong>the</strong>rlandBy Mussuba Samati // Staff EditorAfrica is <strong>the</strong> world’s second largest cont<strong>in</strong>ent. It covers one-fifth of <strong>the</strong> planet’sland area. It conta<strong>in</strong>s more than 50 countries, and my beloved mo<strong>the</strong>rland, Gu<strong>in</strong>ea-Bissau, <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> west of Africa, is one of <strong>the</strong>m.Ever s<strong>in</strong>ce I can remember, I have always wanted to witness <strong>the</strong> sight of myglorious cont<strong>in</strong>ent, Africa. After migrat<strong>in</strong>g from Gu<strong>in</strong>ea-Bissau to <strong>the</strong> United Statesat a young age, my visions of Africa have little by little vanished and become blurrymemories.In June, my amaz<strong>in</strong>g summer journey to Africa was confirmed. I was head-overheelshappy and terrified at <strong>the</strong> same time.I hopped onto <strong>the</strong> plane with my little sister and mo<strong>the</strong>r. We clasped on our seatbelts. After <strong>the</strong> safety <strong>in</strong>structions were given, <strong>the</strong> plane pulled back and went slowlydown <strong>the</strong> runway, stopped, <strong>the</strong>n lifted off. I nervously grabbed my iPod, blast<strong>in</strong>gmusic and writ<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> my journal.At <strong>the</strong> first glimpse of my long-lost country, I burst out <strong>in</strong> tears. I was excited andcurious to see what <strong>the</strong> country had <strong>in</strong> store for me.Africa isn’t what people portray it to be. Africa is full of love and excitement, suchas me: tak<strong>in</strong>g tours to different parts of my country, meet<strong>in</strong>g new and old familymembers, shopp<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> local markets, volunteer<strong>in</strong>g to help o<strong>the</strong>rs learn English, be<strong>in</strong>gshowered with gifts and affection.I was <strong>in</strong> a different world. I was exposed to a place that was all green. I went toa mall that was covered <strong>in</strong> my country’s colors — red, green, and yellow — and hadclo<strong>the</strong>s from Brazil, Portugal, and America. At <strong>the</strong> entrance to my old house, chickensand pigs were <strong>in</strong> a row, mak<strong>in</strong>g chaotic and annoy<strong>in</strong>g sounds.It was really difficult for me to come back to America. It was hard say<strong>in</strong>g my goodbyesto Africa, especially to my beautiful grandmo<strong>the</strong>r.I snapped a photo as I was about to get on <strong>the</strong> plane. I turned around and tookone last look at Gu<strong>in</strong>ea-Bissau: my country, my life, my heart, my everyth<strong>in</strong>g.I cried for two days, miss<strong>in</strong>g my hometown. But I can f<strong>in</strong>ally smile now. After all, Ihave fulfilled my dreams. ■abroad viewAFH art by Gaida AlzabierMade <strong>in</strong> Ch<strong>in</strong>a:some bad educationBy Jalayah Lawrence // Staff WriterNot everyone has access to someth<strong>in</strong>g as basic as education. Take Ch<strong>in</strong>a, forexample.Accord<strong>in</strong>g to a July article from Caix<strong>in</strong>.com, a bus<strong>in</strong>ess website, many students <strong>in</strong>rural Ch<strong>in</strong>a are dropp<strong>in</strong>g out of school to take jobs <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> cities. Those out of schoolbut left beh<strong>in</strong>d may face a future without basic skills to even operate computers.The site quotes some school officials <strong>in</strong> Gansu Prov<strong>in</strong>ce as say<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> dropout rate<strong>in</strong> junior high runs 30 to 40 percent.This is a global problem that I’d like to help fix.Of course, I would need to get o<strong>the</strong>rs <strong>in</strong>volved, because no one is go<strong>in</strong>g to pay attentionto just one voice.Toge<strong>the</strong>r, we could contact local officials with federal ties, such as U.S. Senator JohnKerry or U.S. Senator Scott Brown.What might get <strong>in</strong> our way is that people just don’t care because <strong>the</strong>ir kids are be<strong>in</strong>gtaught well.Countries that are not educat<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong>ir children should be ashamed. I th<strong>in</strong>k thatsome of <strong>the</strong> people <strong>in</strong> those countries don’t even know <strong>the</strong>y are not all gett<strong>in</strong>g properschool<strong>in</strong>g.There needs to be consequences. We take a lot of imports from Ch<strong>in</strong>a, and maybewe should stop until <strong>the</strong>y start giv<strong>in</strong>g all <strong>the</strong>ir kids good educations. ■AFH art by David Johnsonbostontip.com / nov/dec 2012 / BOSTON TEENS IN PRINT / 9
help l<strong>in</strong>e10 / BOSTON TEENS IN PRINT / nov/dec 2012 / bostontip.comTips from TiPIf you have a problem and are seek<strong>in</strong>g answers, please write toTips from TiP c/o ric.kahn.jcs@cityofboston.gov. Please make sureyour topics are appropriate for a teen newspaper, and <strong>in</strong>dicatewhe<strong>the</strong>r you want your name withheld.Mussuba Samati Penda SeckDear TiP:Beauty? She has that. Confidence? She has that. Talent? She has that. Curves? She hasthat. Flawless sk<strong>in</strong>? She has that. But do I? No.I’m not a very confident person who feels beautiful, smart, or sexy every day. I th<strong>in</strong>k mylooks are average. I mean, <strong>the</strong>re are some days where I feel beautiful, pretty, or cute, but Idon’t feel it every day like some do. Wait, am I supposed to feel like that every day, anyway?I’m not <strong>in</strong>telligent, ei<strong>the</strong>r. I th<strong>in</strong>k my knowledge is quite enough to live <strong>in</strong> this world, butI’m still will<strong>in</strong>g to learn more.Am I just view<strong>in</strong>g all my flaws? Maybe. I guess I have so many of <strong>the</strong>m that I forget aboutmy good side.I let what people say ru<strong>in</strong> me, because I care what o<strong>the</strong>rs th<strong>in</strong>k. I try not to, but I can’<strong>the</strong>lp it. And it’s weird because no matter how much a person compliments me, it stilldoesn’t change <strong>the</strong> way I see myself. I even tried lov<strong>in</strong>g myself, but, hey, it’s pretty hard. SoI guess it’s not pretty surpris<strong>in</strong>g for someone to f<strong>in</strong>d it hard to love me.It’s also weird because whenever I do feel confident, people th<strong>in</strong>k I’m cocky. I mean, it’srare that I actually feel beautiful. Why do you have to take that away from me?S<strong>in</strong>cerely,Lack of Confidence, a BPS juniorDear LOC:Confidence? To us, it’s be<strong>in</strong>g yourself — be<strong>in</strong>trospective and figure out who you are. You can’taccomplish anyth<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> life if you lack confidence.Life is not easy for anyone, but we cannot makeanyth<strong>in</strong>g of it if we are extremely negative. Everyoneis outstand<strong>in</strong>g and beautiful <strong>in</strong> his or her ownway. Talent, flawless sk<strong>in</strong>, and curves don’t makeup <strong>the</strong> true def<strong>in</strong>ition of beauty. Beauty is not justbased on looks; it’s about dignity, personality, andelegance.<strong>Teens</strong> can be cruel, but sometimes you haveto take those negative words and turn <strong>the</strong>m <strong>in</strong>topositives.Just remember: You’re liv<strong>in</strong>g your life, not <strong>the</strong>irs.Do what pleases you, and feel good about it.▲ AFHLove,Mussuba and Pendafirst person s<strong>in</strong>gular“Therapy changed my life”By Penda Seck // Staff Editor“I am alone <strong>in</strong> this world <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> way that everyone stops notic<strong>in</strong>g me.”These were <strong>the</strong> thoughts well<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>side me, because <strong>the</strong> people that were supposedto comfort me didn’t see how hard I was try<strong>in</strong>g to be <strong>the</strong> perfect one for <strong>the</strong>m.Hopeless. Even when I prayed it was like God was not available. I was look<strong>in</strong>g foranswers everywhere, but I couldn’t f<strong>in</strong>d any, and that was knock<strong>in</strong>g me down.Options. I didn’t have any, but what about <strong>the</strong>rapy? Many cultures have <strong>the</strong> notionthat be<strong>in</strong>g seen by a <strong>the</strong>rapist is bad. Before I got <strong>in</strong>volved with emotions and problemsthat I couldn’t handle on my own, I thought see<strong>in</strong>g a <strong>the</strong>rapist was not only awaste of time, but unnecessary.I was depressed, th<strong>in</strong>k<strong>in</strong>g nobody cared what happened to me. I felt like I was los<strong>in</strong>gcontrol. To me, what was right was wrong and what was wrong was right. But asI began to see my <strong>the</strong>rapist, I learned that no matter what you go through, <strong>the</strong>re willalways be a person who is <strong>the</strong>re for you. I realized that what doesn’t kill you makesyou stronger.A <strong>the</strong>rapist is not just a doctor, but also a friend who you can tell anyth<strong>in</strong>g to, th<strong>in</strong>gsthat you can’t even confide to family or best friends. It is a person who can help youovercome your fears and feel<strong>in</strong>gs and see th<strong>in</strong>gs <strong>the</strong> way <strong>the</strong>y appear, not <strong>the</strong> illusionswe have <strong>in</strong> our m<strong>in</strong>ds.Many teens don’t want to talk about whe<strong>the</strong>r <strong>the</strong>y go to <strong>the</strong>rapy or not. But this isnot a shameful act because we are seek<strong>in</strong>g answers as we grow up, and we need aperson who understands us without judg<strong>in</strong>g us.Therapy changed my life, not only lett<strong>in</strong>g me know that I could talk to a person whocould accept me without judgment, but also giv<strong>in</strong>g me hope of putt<strong>in</strong>g toge<strong>the</strong>r <strong>the</strong>million pieces that I was torn <strong>in</strong>to. I learned that people cared about me — even if <strong>the</strong>ydidn’t show it.Therapy helped me reconcile with my family. And <strong>the</strong> best part of all is that it helpsyou discover who you are and how to make our world a better place for ourselves andfor <strong>the</strong> people we love. ■AFH art by Jennifer Thai
<strong>the</strong> middle school pageNervous yet excited:My first day of middle schoolBy Jamila Jalloh // Contribut<strong>in</strong>g WriterAFH art by Julie EcheverriMy first day of middle school last year, I was excited yet a bit nervous. The nightbefore, I imag<strong>in</strong>ed both good and bad deeds appear<strong>in</strong>g from <strong>the</strong> same direction.That night, I promised myself that I wouldn’t be too much of a nerd or geek so myclassmates wouldn’t hate me. I went to sleep th<strong>in</strong>k<strong>in</strong>g that it was a pretty good idea.“Good morn<strong>in</strong>g to me,” I said when I woke up ready to experience that first day. Iknow some might be th<strong>in</strong>k<strong>in</strong>g: “What is so special about go<strong>in</strong>g to middle school?”But to me, it was like graduat<strong>in</strong>g from be<strong>in</strong>g a newborn to be<strong>in</strong>g a college student,like go<strong>in</strong>g from be<strong>in</strong>g s<strong>in</strong>gle to be<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> a relationship, like com<strong>in</strong>g from hell and go<strong>in</strong>gto heaven, like be<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> prison to hav<strong>in</strong>g freedom.After I waited hesitat<strong>in</strong>gly, <strong>the</strong> bus f<strong>in</strong>ally came. My heart was beat<strong>in</strong>g faster by<strong>the</strong> second of every second. Unexpectedly, it felt like two huge bubbles of good andbad try<strong>in</strong>g to burst out of my small, little, <strong>in</strong>nocent, nervous mouth.I went to homeroom expect<strong>in</strong>g everyone to look at me like I was some k<strong>in</strong>d of humanmonster. Instead, <strong>the</strong>y just m<strong>in</strong>ded <strong>the</strong>ir own bus<strong>in</strong>ess.Then we l<strong>in</strong>ed up to go to our first block, which was social studies. The teacherwas pretty nice. She just <strong>in</strong>troduced herself, told us which supplies we needed, andasked us for th<strong>in</strong>gs like our contact <strong>in</strong>fo.That was pretty much what we did <strong>in</strong> every class until <strong>the</strong> end of <strong>the</strong> day. I had expectedsometh<strong>in</strong>g bad to happen, but actually I had a very good first day of middleschool.Jamila Jalloh is a BPS seventh grader. ■Sweet as honeyWhy “Matilda” is my favorite bookBy Fanta Diakite // Staff WriterMy favorite book is “Matilda,” by Roald Dahl. It is important to me because itshows how children should not be treated. They should be handled with love andrespect. And <strong>the</strong>y should def<strong>in</strong>itely be allowed to go to school.Matilda was dealt with badly — like she wasn’t even a human be<strong>in</strong>g. Her parentsdidn’t care about her, so she took care of herself.She loved to read. She taught herself by go<strong>in</strong>g to <strong>the</strong> library. But her fa<strong>the</strong>rdidn’t want her to read. He didn’t even want her to go to school, because hethought that Matilda was dumb. All he wanted was for her to sit and watch TV.Then, f<strong>in</strong>ally, he let her go to school. Matilda was very happy and nervousfor her first day. She thought her teacher was go<strong>in</strong>g to be mean to her like herparents, but it turns out that she was nice. Her name was Miss Honey, and sheadmired Matilda.Matilda was magical, and had special powers that she used on disrespect<strong>in</strong>gadults.At <strong>the</strong> end of <strong>the</strong> book, Matilda’s family fled to Spa<strong>in</strong>, because her dad wason <strong>the</strong> run from police for some shady deal<strong>in</strong>gs. Matilda got to stay and live withMiss Honey.All parents should treat <strong>the</strong>ir kids with love, admiration, and respect like MissHoney treated Matilda.Fanta Diakite is a BPS seventh grader. ■AFH photo by Christ<strong>in</strong>a Vivadabostontip.com / nov/dec 2012 / BOSTON TEENS IN PRINT / 11
BRIANNA BANNISTERFunny or smart? Smart.Touchscreen or keyboard? Keyboard.Favorite politician? Obama.Childhood or adulthood? Childhood.AMADOU BARRYFunny or smart? Smart.Favorite politician? Obama.Curly or straight hair? Curly.First th<strong>in</strong>g you notice on a person? Smile.SHERLEY BELIZAIREFunny or smart? Smart.Favorite politician? Obama.Childhood or adulthood? Childhood.First th<strong>in</strong>g you notice on a person? Face.LA`NEECE BYRDFunny or smart? Smart.Childhood or adulthood? Childhood.Curly or straight hair? Curly.First th<strong>in</strong>g you notice on a person? Eyes.FANTA DIAKITEFunny or smart? Smart.Favorite politician? Obama.Childhood or adulthood? Childhood.First th<strong>in</strong>g you notice on a person? Eyes.Write for <strong>Teens</strong> <strong>in</strong> Pr<strong>in</strong>t!➧SEND your essays, letters, articles,commentaries, poems, pen-and<strong>in</strong>kdraw<strong>in</strong>gs or cartoons, and photos.➧ EMAIL submissions toric.kahn.jcs@cityofboston.gov➧ Send <strong>the</strong>m as ei<strong>the</strong>r MS Wordattachments or email messages.➧ Provide your name, age, grade,and school. You must attend oneof <strong>the</strong> Boston Public high schools.FORMAT your writ<strong>in</strong>g➧ Double-spaced.➧ Times New Roman, 12-po<strong>in</strong>t font.➧ In <strong>the</strong> upper left corner, put your name,Contribut<strong>in</strong>g Writer, and a titleor headl<strong>in</strong>e.Whatever you submit has to be➡➧meet<strong>the</strong> staffBoston <strong>Teens</strong> <strong>in</strong> Pr<strong>in</strong>t unites <strong>the</strong> city’s teens to create an outlet to <strong>in</strong>form,communicate, and provide positive change through written expression.➧➧YOUR OWN CREATION. We only pr<strong>in</strong>torig<strong>in</strong>al work. Please write “this ismy own creation” next to your name.You will not get your work back.KEEP A COPY for yourself.<strong>Teens</strong> <strong>in</strong> Pr<strong>in</strong>t reserves <strong>the</strong> right toEDIT your work for length, content,or appropriateness.Next issue: Jan/Feb 2013Send submissions by mail to:Boston <strong>Teens</strong> <strong>in</strong> Pr<strong>in</strong>tc/o WriteBoston7 Palmer S<strong>tree</strong>t,Roxbury, MA 02119Contact us:WriteBoston 617-541-2651➧➧FEEDBACK!Was it someth<strong>in</strong>g we said?Or didn’t say? Someth<strong>in</strong>gwith which you agree– or disagree?Let <strong>Teens</strong> <strong>in</strong> Pr<strong>in</strong>t know what’s onyour m<strong>in</strong>d by send<strong>in</strong>g us an emailto ric.kahn.jcs@cityofboston.govPlease <strong>in</strong>clude your full name,neighborhood, and your date ofbirth (this won’t be pr<strong>in</strong>ted but isjust to verify your age at <strong>the</strong> timeof publication) and we may runyour letter <strong>in</strong> an upcom<strong>in</strong>g edition.Thank you.To jo<strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Teens</strong> <strong>in</strong> Pr<strong>in</strong>t staff,please visit our websites anddownload <strong>the</strong> necessary paperwork.bostontip.comwriteboston.orgJALAYAH LAWRENCEFunny or smart? Smart.Favorite politician? I dislike politicians.Childhood or adulthood? Adulthood.First th<strong>in</strong>g you notice on a person? Hair.SHANIQUE LEWISFunny or smart? Smart and funny.Childhood or adulthood? Adulthood.Curly or straight hair? Curly.First th<strong>in</strong>g you notice on a person? Everyth<strong>in</strong>g— my eyes wander a lot.DENNIS MEMBAHFunny or smart? Smart.Favorite politician? Obama.Childhood or adulthood? Adulthood.Curly or straight hair? Straight.MARMARIN NASIRAHMADFunny or smart? Funny people who are smart.Touchscreen or keyboard ? Touchscreen.Childhood or adulthood ? Adulthood becauseyou’re more responsible for yourself.First th<strong>in</strong>g you notice on a person? Smile.MUSSUBA SAMATIFunny or smart? Smart.Favorite politician? Who else but Obama?Childhood or adulthood? Teenagehood.First th<strong>in</strong>g you notice on a person? Stabilityof teeth.IEISHA SAMPSONFavorite politician? Obama Llama.Childhood or adulthood? Adulthood.Curly or straight hair? I love my curls.First th<strong>in</strong>g you notice on a person? Style.JALENE SANCHEZFunny or smart? Smart.Favorite politician? Obama.Curly or straight hair? Straight.First th<strong>in</strong>g you notice on a person? Lips.PENDA SECKFunny or smart? Smart.Favorite politician? Obama.Childhood or adulthood? Childhood —because you don’t have to th<strong>in</strong>k so much.First th<strong>in</strong>g you notice on a person? Personality.TENNEH SESAYFunny or smart? Smart.Favorite politician? Obama.Childhood or adulthood? Childhood.First th<strong>in</strong>g you notice on a person? Fakepersonality.MOUCTAR DIAKITEFunny or smart? Smart.Favorite politician? Obama.Curly or straight hair? Curly.First th<strong>in</strong>g you notice on a person? Personality.GIVONA J. DIETZFunny or smart? Half and half.Favorite politician? JFK.Childhood or adulthood? Childhood.First th<strong>in</strong>g you notice on a person? Everyth<strong>in</strong>g from headto toe.FRANTZ SOUSKY ETIENNEFunny or smart? Smart.Favorite politician? Obama.Childhood or adulthood? Childhood.First th<strong>in</strong>g you notice on a person? Behavior.ILMA GOLEMIFunny or smart? Smart.Childhood or adulthood? Childhood.Curly or straight hair? Straight.First th<strong>in</strong>g you notice on a person? Smile.RALPH T. KARNUAHFunny or smart? Smart — not arrogant.Touchscreen or keyboard? iPhones — I touchthat.Favorite politician? Elizabeth Warren.First th<strong>in</strong>g you notice on a person? Shoes.NENSER KRUAFunny or smart? Smart.Touchscreen or keyboard? Keyboard.Childhood or adulthood? Childhood!First th<strong>in</strong>g you notice on a person? Smile.about usBoston <strong>Teens</strong> <strong>in</strong> Pr<strong>in</strong>t is <strong>the</strong> only citywide youth newspaperwritten by and for Boston public high school andmiddle school students. Launched by WriteBoston andThe Boston Globe <strong>in</strong> 2004, and published five times ayear, TiP is a platform for student journalists, essayists,poets, and artists. It is delivered to Boston high schools,libraries, and community centers. But it is not just anewspaper — it is also, for urban teens, an afterschoolprogram and summer journalism <strong>in</strong>stitute, both free. TiPgives a voice to Boston’s youth, a voice that bellows fromone end of <strong>the</strong> city to <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r, across <strong>the</strong> boundaries ofneighborhood, class, and ethnicity.bostontip.comAUDREY NGANKAMFunny or smart? Funny.Favorite politician? Elizabeth Warren.Childhood or adulthood? Childhood.First th<strong>in</strong>g you notice on a person? Smile.LIZANDRO NOGUEIRAFavorite politician? Barack Obama.Childhood or adulthood? Childhood.Curly or straight hair? Curly.First th<strong>in</strong>g you notice on a person? Personality.SHANAE SADDLERFunny or smart? Smart.Favorite politician? Malcolm X.Childhood or adulthood? Childhood.First th<strong>in</strong>g you notice on a person? Cloth<strong>in</strong>g.ANNA XIEFunny or smart? Smart.Favorite politician? Al Gore.Childhood or adulthood? Teenhood.First th<strong>in</strong>g you notice on a person? Smile.JAMAL YOUNGFunny or smart? Funny ’cause I like hang<strong>in</strong>garound people who make me laugh.Favorite politician? Sarah Pal<strong>in</strong>.Childhood or adulthood? Childhood ’cause Imiss <strong>the</strong> carefreeness.First th<strong>in</strong>g you notice on a person? Eyes.ALEXANDRA ZULUAGAFunny or smart? Funny.Touchscreen or keyboard? Keyboard, oldschool.Childhood or adulthood? Adolescence.First th<strong>in</strong>g you notice on a person? Eye contact.12 / BOSTON TEENS IN PRINT / nov/dec 2012 / bostontip.combostontip.com / nov/dec 2012 / BOSTON TEENS IN PRINT / 13
newspr<strong>in</strong>t14 / BOSTON TEENS IN PRINT / nov/dec 2012 / bostontip.comKnapp timeAfter she died <strong>in</strong> 2002, <strong>the</strong> family of journalist and memoirist Carol<strong>in</strong>e Knapp established <strong>in</strong> her name a summer <strong>in</strong>ternshipprogram — adm<strong>in</strong>istered by WriteBoston, one of TiP’s partners — so that Boston public high school students could feelfor <strong>the</strong>mselves <strong>the</strong> frenzied flow of <strong>in</strong>k and Internet com<strong>in</strong>g out of <strong>the</strong> city’s newsrooms. Below, this year’s four Carol<strong>in</strong>eKnapp Journalism Interns recount <strong>the</strong>ir times work<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> beat at The Boston Globe (also a TiP partner), <strong>the</strong> BostonHerald, and <strong>the</strong> New England Center for Investigative Report<strong>in</strong>g at Boston University.“Explor<strong>in</strong>g newth<strong>in</strong>gs gives you a lotof knowledge”By Julian Bastidas // Contribut<strong>in</strong>g WriterI was nervous on my first day at <strong>the</strong> New England Center for Investigative Report<strong>in</strong>gat Boston University because I did not know what to expect. The only th<strong>in</strong>gI was sure of was that I wanted to get <strong>the</strong> most out of this experience. Explor<strong>in</strong>gnew th<strong>in</strong>gs gives you a lot of knowledge, and it helps you to choose what youmight want to be <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> future.Dur<strong>in</strong>g my <strong>in</strong>itial time <strong>the</strong>re, I took classes with o<strong>the</strong>r kids. I feel like I may havebeen <strong>the</strong> only person who did not have any experience with journalism. Many of<strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>rs were <strong>in</strong>volved <strong>in</strong> school or neighborhood newspapers. But I did not getdisappo<strong>in</strong>ted because I went <strong>the</strong>re to learn.I learned that it is possible to f<strong>in</strong>d someone onl<strong>in</strong>e and that you can discovera lot of facts about people on certa<strong>in</strong> websites. That also taught me that I haveto be careful about my own personal <strong>in</strong>formation that I use on social networks. Ialso found out how to <strong>in</strong>terview people.After tak<strong>in</strong>g classes, I worked with ano<strong>the</strong>r <strong>in</strong>tern on an article that has to stillrema<strong>in</strong> top secret because it has not been published. I can say that I discovered<strong>the</strong> different po<strong>in</strong>ts of view of students, organizations, and teachers. This was <strong>the</strong>highlight of <strong>the</strong> program, s<strong>in</strong>ce I had to <strong>in</strong>terview people like a reporter.I might not end up choos<strong>in</strong>g journalism as a career, but it was a privilege hav<strong>in</strong>gtaken this <strong>in</strong>ternship. It opened doors for me and let my knowledge grow. ■“This is what Iwant to spend <strong>the</strong>rest of my life do<strong>in</strong>g”By Heaven Reda // Contribut<strong>in</strong>g WriterIn March, I submitted an application to WriteBoston for <strong>the</strong> Carol<strong>in</strong>e Knappsummer <strong>in</strong>ternship. With little background <strong>in</strong>formation about <strong>the</strong> program, I knewI would want to be a part of it because it was for teens like me who love to write.In April, I was called <strong>in</strong> for an <strong>in</strong>terview. It wasn’t until <strong>the</strong>n that I had a senseof what I had signed up for, and I found that it was perhaps <strong>the</strong> greatest bl<strong>in</strong>ddecision I had ever made.As I helped prepare articles for <strong>the</strong> newspaper, my experience at <strong>the</strong> BostonHerald not only exposed me to useful techniques <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> field of journalism, buthas reassured me that this is what I want to spend <strong>the</strong> rest of my life do<strong>in</strong>g. Theunpredictable nature of <strong>the</strong> profession made <strong>the</strong> entire duration of <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>ternshipexcit<strong>in</strong>g and eventful.The idea of rout<strong>in</strong>e scares me because it makes me feel conf<strong>in</strong>ed and suppressed.I found that I would never actually have to overcome that fear as ajournalist because days are rarely planned. The spontaneity and sense of liberty Ifelt is what made wak<strong>in</strong>g up each morn<strong>in</strong>g that much more pleasant.My gratitude for be<strong>in</strong>g awarded this opportunity is immense, and <strong>the</strong> knowledgethis experience has equipped me with is unique. The generosity of my sponsors’contributions mirrors <strong>the</strong>ir faith <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> future of media, but also <strong>the</strong> futuresof young, aspir<strong>in</strong>g writers. ■
newspr<strong>in</strong>tAFH photo by Jennifer Thai“I found out a lotabout writ<strong>in</strong>g newspaperstories and about myself”By David Levy // Contribut<strong>in</strong>g WriterUpon my arrival at The Boston Globe, I was unsure what to expect. A widerange of thoughts went through my head: How could I possibly contribute tosuch a lengthy and difficult process? Would I fit <strong>in</strong> this field of work? Would Ihave fun do<strong>in</strong>g it? Despite <strong>the</strong> cont<strong>in</strong>ued anxiety, I went <strong>in</strong> open-m<strong>in</strong>ded and,surpris<strong>in</strong>gly, loved <strong>the</strong> result.At <strong>the</strong> Globe, <strong>the</strong>re is a wonderful atmosphere. It’s a plethora of extremely <strong>in</strong>telligentand well-read <strong>in</strong>dividuals who all help make it one of <strong>the</strong> most popularnewspapers around.I learned many th<strong>in</strong>gs. I learned that <strong>the</strong>re is no “I” <strong>in</strong> team. It takes a teamof writers, editors, and analysts to meet <strong>the</strong> expectations of such an extensivenewspaper.I also discovered that, as <strong>in</strong> school, be<strong>in</strong>g punctual is imperative. Be it onyour timesheets or when writ<strong>in</strong>g a story, honor<strong>in</strong>g deadl<strong>in</strong>es is a large factor <strong>in</strong>how successful <strong>the</strong> paper can be.From some of <strong>the</strong> reporters and editors, I found out that sometimes, if youwant to get to <strong>the</strong> bottom of a story, you have to hunt for it. In <strong>the</strong> world ofreport<strong>in</strong>g, not everyone is forthcom<strong>in</strong>g with <strong>in</strong>formation. Also, when attempt<strong>in</strong>gto acquire new <strong>in</strong>formation, ord<strong>in</strong>ary Boston residents can sometimes be <strong>the</strong>best sources.A big portion of my experience at <strong>the</strong> Globe was learn<strong>in</strong>g how technologyplays a huge role <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> new age of report<strong>in</strong>g. Twitter and Facebook — someof <strong>the</strong> social network<strong>in</strong>g sites our parents would scold us for us<strong>in</strong>g while ourhomework piles up — are <strong>the</strong> same sites that are used at <strong>the</strong> paper on a dailybasis.Dur<strong>in</strong>g my stay at <strong>the</strong> Globe, I found out a lot about writ<strong>in</strong>g newspaper storiesand about myself, and what it takes to be successful. ■“My first day,I learned to never judgea book by its cover”By Paola Florencio // Contribut<strong>in</strong>g WriterPerspective is a funny th<strong>in</strong>g.At first I thought that The Boston Globe was just what was delivered to me — aproduct provid<strong>in</strong>g me with <strong>the</strong> news. As <strong>the</strong> weeks work<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong>re went by, though,my perspective changed from read<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> paper to acknowledg<strong>in</strong>g its hard workand creativity.A day at <strong>the</strong> Globe is carefully planned to succeed from early <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> morn<strong>in</strong>g, wi<strong>the</strong>ditors attend<strong>in</strong>g a meet<strong>in</strong>g where <strong>the</strong>y talk about what is happen<strong>in</strong>g and what isgo<strong>in</strong>g to go <strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong> paper.At times, all I ever heard was <strong>the</strong> sound of a keyboard, but that is part of <strong>the</strong>way <strong>the</strong> office worked. People did <strong>the</strong>ir own th<strong>in</strong>g, but <strong>the</strong>y treated each o<strong>the</strong>r likefriends <strong>in</strong>stead of co-workers.The people I met made <strong>the</strong> summer even more fun, and I found that I learnedsometh<strong>in</strong>g from each one of <strong>the</strong>m.My first day, I learned to never judge a book by its cover. Everyone <strong>the</strong>reseemed to be wear<strong>in</strong>g fancy cloth<strong>in</strong>g. And <strong>the</strong>n I saw one reporter wear<strong>in</strong>g jeansand a baseball cap. I watched <strong>the</strong> way he loved what he did and he was my rolemodel for <strong>the</strong> summer.I explored different departments all over <strong>the</strong> Globe. I experienced a sports talkshow, met people who review <strong>the</strong> books we read, learned how to write obituaries,and passed along news tips from people call<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>.When <strong>the</strong> mass kill<strong>in</strong>gs happened at <strong>the</strong> movies <strong>in</strong> Colorado, I got to help <strong>in</strong>terviewlocal people and understand <strong>the</strong>ir thoughts and concerns.I also went to places I had never been before, like City Hall, <strong>the</strong> federal courthouse,and <strong>the</strong> State House.Overall, The Boston Globe was a fasc<strong>in</strong>at<strong>in</strong>g place to work. I knew that be<strong>in</strong>g<strong>the</strong>re would be an experience. I just never thought I would learn so much from it. ■bostontip.com / nov/dec 2012 / BOSTON TEENS IN PRINT / 15
friends & familyHow arelationship cancrush a friendshipBy Ilma Golemi // Staff WriterKristiana Mbrice, 16, from Boston Community Leadership Academy,knows that you can stop be<strong>in</strong>g friends with someone becausethat person gets <strong>in</strong>to a relationship — and <strong>the</strong>n drops you.“It is possible that you can be friends with someone for all yourlife,” says Mbrice. “I do believe <strong>in</strong> friendship, but I don’t believe <strong>in</strong>eternity. Life is better when you are <strong>in</strong> a relationship and have a lot offriends at <strong>the</strong> same time. If you want to have both of <strong>the</strong>m, you needto spend time with your partner, but also with your friends.”Friendship is a big part of a teenager’s life. Good friends will helpyou <strong>in</strong> good and bad times, and accept you just <strong>the</strong> way you are.Friends give you priceless moments and treasured memories.But relationships are also a big part of <strong>the</strong> teen years. <strong>Teens</strong> startto have feel<strong>in</strong>gs for o<strong>the</strong>rs. Sometimes, <strong>the</strong>y spend a lot of time with<strong>the</strong>ir partners and forget <strong>the</strong>ir friends.George McDermott, 17, says he stopped be<strong>in</strong>g friends with a personbecause of a relationship that left little time for him and o<strong>the</strong>rs.“I th<strong>in</strong>k you can be <strong>in</strong> a relationship, but still have a lot of friendsat <strong>the</strong> same time,” says McDermott, who goes to Madison Park HighSchool. “If I was <strong>in</strong> a relationship, I would stay with my girlfriend and Iwould present it to my friends.”Shantal Uwimana, 16, says that sometimes you can’t have a lot offriends and be <strong>in</strong> a relationship at <strong>the</strong> same time.“Relationship and friendship are both important, but sometimesfriendship is more important because if you break up with yourpartner, you are not go<strong>in</strong>g to have any friends,” says Uwimana, whoattends BCLA. “I would hang out with my friends and my partner, andhope that <strong>the</strong>y get along.” ■AFH art by Shisha K<strong>in</strong>gMomand dad:buddies orbad guys?By Jamal Young // Staff WriterFriends? Foes? Who knows?Parents <strong>in</strong> this generation are upand down on this subject. Someare laid-back and some arealways on top of you.Ale<strong>the</strong>a Cannady, 18, whoattends <strong>the</strong> Community Academyof Science and Health, says shefeels constra<strong>in</strong>ed by her parents’rules, like an 8 p.m. curfew onschool nights.“When I want to do th<strong>in</strong>gsmyself like chill with my friends,”she says, “I can’t.”Discussions on <strong>the</strong> sitephilosophyforums.com presentboth sides of this longtime teenparentstruggle.“[Strict-parented children]may grow up feel<strong>in</strong>g under <strong>the</strong>thumb all <strong>the</strong> time, unhappy atbe<strong>in</strong>g controlled and desir<strong>in</strong>g anexplosive rebellion.”On <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r hand: “[Childrenwith permissive parents] willgrow up disrespectful, alwaysfight<strong>in</strong>g with everyone and feel<strong>in</strong>gno love for <strong>the</strong>ir parents, familyor friends.”Victoria Dep<strong>in</strong>a, a junior atCASH, says her parents are morelike friends.“My curfew is late on weekdaysand I don’t have one onweekends,” she says.Sometimes, Dep<strong>in</strong>a says, sheprefers more structure <strong>in</strong> her life.“It’s cool that <strong>the</strong>y give me somuch freedom,” she says, “butI wish that <strong>the</strong>y would be a littlemore strict.”Marqis Moody, 17, from CASH,says he appreciates that hisparents are demand<strong>in</strong>g.“They push me to do my best,”says Moody, “and <strong>the</strong>y makesure that I keep up with myschool work. This is good for mebecause it gives me good skills Iwill need <strong>in</strong> life.” ■AFH art by Cassandra LattimoreRush<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>torelationshipsBy Tenneh Sesay // Staff WriterTyesha Morales, 15, from Boston CommunityLeadership Academy, says she is s<strong>in</strong>glebecause she hasn’t found <strong>the</strong> right guy whowill treat her like a pr<strong>in</strong>cess.She describes <strong>the</strong> perfect partner —someone who will help make <strong>the</strong> relationshiplast: “Nice, sweet, someone who willprotect me, respect me, and love me. Someonewho isn’t go<strong>in</strong>g to call ano<strong>the</strong>r girl cute.Someone who would text me good morn<strong>in</strong>g/good night, let me be myself, wants to f<strong>in</strong>ishschool and get a good job.”Unlike Morales, many teens rush <strong>in</strong>to relationshipsbefore <strong>the</strong>y get to know <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>rperson well, ignor<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> advice: “The fasterit happens, <strong>the</strong> faster it ends.”Jamilez Guerrero, 16, from BCLA, saysshe dated a guy for two years and found outfrom texts on his phone that he was cheat<strong>in</strong>gon her.Now, she says, she is focus<strong>in</strong>g on herstudies.Fatima Sillah, a seventh-grader at <strong>the</strong>Boston Teachers Union School, says she’ss<strong>in</strong>gle and she loves it.“I won’t have to worry about boys andheartbreak, cry<strong>in</strong>g, cheat<strong>in</strong>g,” Sillah says.Like o<strong>the</strong>rs, she knows that relationshipscan become as complicated as advancedmath. ■16 / BOSTON TEENS IN PRINT / nov/dec 2012 / bostontip.com
fashion five-oAFH photo by Cashman Ogaus and Lena YeeTrack<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> weaveBy Givona J. Dietz // Staff WriterMany young girls <strong>in</strong> Boston are all about long hair, and if <strong>the</strong>y don’t already haveit, it’s not anyth<strong>in</strong>g weave can’t fix.Weave has gone from famous females like Beyoncé, who have money for it, <strong>in</strong>tohigh schools and even middle schools.For some females, it is a long-hair addiction, while o<strong>the</strong>rs do it for <strong>the</strong> look.“The people on TV <strong>in</strong>spire me to do my hair this way,” says 18-year-old SachaGuity, of English High School.Guity practiced on her hair until she could master a replica of <strong>the</strong> latest styles.“I pay $95 plus tax every two weeks to do my hair,” she says. “S<strong>in</strong>ce I know howto do it myself, I only have to pay for <strong>the</strong> tracks.”Samantha Strode, a senior at Boston Lat<strong>in</strong> School, likes <strong>the</strong> look of extensions<strong>in</strong> her hair.“I don’t put extensions <strong>in</strong> that often because <strong>the</strong>y can be heavy,” she says, “but<strong>the</strong>y look amaz<strong>in</strong>g once <strong>the</strong>y’re <strong>in</strong>.”Khalilah Jones, a senior at BLS, started wear<strong>in</strong>g weave after junior prom anddecided to cont<strong>in</strong>ue gett<strong>in</strong>g her hair done that way.Thirteen-year-old Shanika Charles, of Mattapan, is young but likes her tracks —used with a type of weave — because she always wanted long hair. ■AFH art by Gabriela CartagenaAFH photo by Seijah NguyenEarly w<strong>in</strong>terfashion showBy Ilma Golemi // Staff WriterEven before <strong>the</strong> cold wea<strong>the</strong>r strikes, sixteen-year-oldCarla Rodrigues is on <strong>the</strong> lookout for warm cloth<strong>in</strong>g.“If I see someth<strong>in</strong>g nice, and I like it, <strong>the</strong>n I am go<strong>in</strong>g tobuy it and save it for w<strong>in</strong>ter,” says Rodrigues, who attends<strong>the</strong> John D. O’Bryant School of Math & Science and isknown to wear outfits that <strong>in</strong>clude a North Face jacket andUGGs.Look<strong>in</strong>g classy and classic are two features you want tolook for when you go shopp<strong>in</strong>g for w<strong>in</strong>ter wear, teens say.That can mean a North Face jacket, UGGs, and colorfuljeans.“Nice boots and a fluffy jacket is <strong>the</strong> best way to lookfashionable <strong>in</strong> w<strong>in</strong>ter,” says Rosana Cardoso, 16, who goesto <strong>the</strong> O’Bryant.Shontelle Trotman, 15, from <strong>the</strong> O’Bryant, is also an earlybuyer.“October,” says Trotman “is <strong>the</strong> time when I start shopp<strong>in</strong>gfor w<strong>in</strong>ter.” ■bostontip.com / nov/dec 2012 / BOSTON TEENS IN PRINT / 17
culture clubSocial media:<strong>the</strong> great connector,or isolator?By Jocelyn Perez // Contribut<strong>in</strong>g WriterAFH art by Khari PolkPlay<strong>in</strong>g it safe<strong>in</strong> cyberspaceBy Sheridan Cooper // Contribut<strong>in</strong>g WriterAFH photo by Dom<strong>in</strong>ic DuongJack Connolly, 14, knows <strong>the</strong> rules of Facebook security.“Cyber safety is protect<strong>in</strong>g your <strong>in</strong>formation onl<strong>in</strong>e andnot friend<strong>in</strong>g people who you don’t know,” says Connolly,who attends Boston Lat<strong>in</strong> School.Youth are us<strong>in</strong>g social media at younger and youngerages. Because parents take <strong>the</strong>ir children’s Internet safetyvery seriously, so do many teens.“I just change my password once a month,” says TrevorPrice, 14, from BLS.Clio Shaw, 14, from BLS, says she doesn’t have morepersonal <strong>in</strong>formation like her address and phone numberonl<strong>in</strong>e.“I have my name, school, and photographs on Facebook,”says Shaw, “so my friends can f<strong>in</strong>d me.” ■<strong>Teens</strong> can relate to this story: A mo<strong>the</strong>r told her daughter that back <strong>in</strong> her younger days, shewould meet people by go<strong>in</strong>g out to new places and explor<strong>in</strong>g her surround<strong>in</strong>gs.Imag<strong>in</strong>e that!Nowadays, many teenagers use <strong>the</strong> Internet to do all <strong>the</strong> work for <strong>the</strong>m. Today, <strong>the</strong>y get <strong>in</strong>troducedto people through Twitter or Facebook — ra<strong>the</strong>r than through face-to-face encounters.In her book “Alone Toge<strong>the</strong>r,” Sherry Turkle writes: “Our networked life allows us to hide fromeach o<strong>the</strong>r, even as we are te<strong>the</strong>red to each o<strong>the</strong>r. We’d ra<strong>the</strong>r text than talk.”The question now arises: Are social networks mak<strong>in</strong>g teens anti-social?Jihane Bouhennana, a 16-year-old from East Boston High School, th<strong>in</strong>ks so.“Social networks are tak<strong>in</strong>g away teens’ ability to get out <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> real world and make friends<strong>the</strong> old-fashioned way,” says Bouhennana.O<strong>the</strong>rs, like Carol<strong>in</strong>a Forty, 17, from Boston Community Leadership Academy, disagree.Forty believes that social networks are just <strong>the</strong> routes to help<strong>in</strong>g you get to know a person.“When I meet someone for <strong>the</strong> first time, it’s f<strong>in</strong>e, I’ll talk to <strong>the</strong>m,” she says. “But sometimes<strong>the</strong>y talk more through social networks than <strong>in</strong> person.”William Bonilla, a sophomore from East Boston High, says he likes meet<strong>in</strong>g people throughsocial networks; once he gets to know <strong>the</strong>m <strong>in</strong> person, he says, it tends to get uncomfortable.For many teens, communicat<strong>in</strong>g through Twitter or Facebook can be easier than actual verbal<strong>in</strong>teraction.“No one wants those awkward pauses when you run out of th<strong>in</strong>gs to say,” says Bouhennana.Still, many teens know that it’s hard to spark a conversation with someone <strong>in</strong> person if you’veread <strong>the</strong>ir tweets or Facebook statuses.After all, <strong>the</strong> dialogue ends when you already know wheresomeone went, and with whom. ■Stay<strong>in</strong>g friends with FacebookFacebook offers tips for keep<strong>in</strong>g out of danger onl<strong>in</strong>e toteens, beg<strong>in</strong>n<strong>in</strong>g with its youngest users, ages 13 to 17:• Make sure your password stays with you.• Don’t accept friend requests from strangers.• If you don’t want your parents, teachers or employers tosee someth<strong>in</strong>g, don’t post it.• Don’t hide beh<strong>in</strong>d fake identities. It is aga<strong>in</strong>st Facebookpolicy to lie about your name or age.18 / BOSTON TEENS IN PRINT / nov/dec 2012 / bostontip.comAFH photo by Dom<strong>in</strong>ic Duong
Get smartBook vs. s<strong>tree</strong>tBy Anna Xie // Staff WriterAshley Liriano, a senior at <strong>the</strong> John D. O’BryantSchool of Math & Science, lays out <strong>the</strong> argument thatbe<strong>in</strong>g book smart and s<strong>tree</strong>t smart are both crucialqualities.“Be<strong>in</strong>g book smart is important because withouteducation, you can’t really do much,” says Liriano. “Itallows you to be at <strong>the</strong> top of your class and get <strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong>best colleges.”However, she <strong>the</strong>n counters: “But what good will thatdo if you would be <strong>in</strong>capable of be<strong>in</strong>g able to <strong>in</strong>terviewfor important job positions, or to even <strong>in</strong>teract withthose that are around you?”She f<strong>in</strong>ally concludes: “I would ra<strong>the</strong>r be s<strong>tree</strong>t smartthan book smart, because by be<strong>in</strong>g s<strong>tree</strong>t smart, Iwould be able to move forward <strong>in</strong> life, whereas be<strong>in</strong>gbook smart can only get you as far as f<strong>in</strong>ish<strong>in</strong>g youreducation.”With <strong>the</strong> price of a college education <strong>in</strong>creas<strong>in</strong>g eachyear, many teenagers are hitt<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> books and study<strong>in</strong>gfervently <strong>in</strong> hopes of fur<strong>the</strong>r<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong>ir academic journeys.However, with <strong>the</strong> occurrences of violence manifest<strong>in</strong>gat an alarm<strong>in</strong>g rate, it is no wonder many teenagersacquire survival s<strong>tree</strong>t smart skills, as well.Aleah Bobb, a senior at <strong>the</strong> O’Bryant, believes thatbe<strong>in</strong>g s<strong>tree</strong>t smart is more essential.“As people, we need some h<strong>in</strong>t of common sense,”she says. “Yes, we need to be book smart, too, butschool does not really teach you how to be safe whenyou’re walk<strong>in</strong>g home. School does not teach you howto survive <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> real world. It just educates you on <strong>the</strong><strong>in</strong>formation you need for your career path.”Jessica Tavares, a senior at <strong>the</strong> O’Bryant, believeso<strong>the</strong>rwise. She says be<strong>in</strong>g book smart is more critical <strong>in</strong>today’s society.“It’s important because <strong>the</strong> more you know,” shesays, “<strong>the</strong> higher you can be on <strong>the</strong> ‘social pyramid,’ <strong>in</strong>terms of your job and status.” ■AFH art by X<strong>in</strong> LiuCats vs.can<strong>in</strong>esSurvey says:dogs rule!By Ilma Golemi // Staff WriterFifteen-year-old Claudia Gomes Barrosfavors dogs over cats. “Most people <strong>in</strong>America prefer to have a dog than a cat becausedogs are a man’s best friend,” saysBarros, who attends <strong>the</strong> John D. O’BryantSchool of Math & Science. “Also, cats arebor<strong>in</strong>g.”Indeed, can<strong>in</strong>es beat cats nationwide,accord<strong>in</strong>g to <strong>the</strong> early results of a pet-ownershipsurvey done by <strong>the</strong> American Veter<strong>in</strong>aryMedical Association and releasedthis summer. The study shows that 36.5percent of all households <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> U.S. owndogs, while 30.4 percent own cats.Dog people say that when <strong>the</strong>y gethome, <strong>the</strong>ir pets are <strong>the</strong> ones who startplay<strong>in</strong>g and are happy to see <strong>the</strong>m, whilecats don’t do anyth<strong>in</strong>g. Some o<strong>the</strong>r peopleth<strong>in</strong>k that cats are better because youdon’t have to take <strong>the</strong>m for walks, and <strong>the</strong>yare not as noisy as dogs.Julyn F. Ryan, 16, from <strong>the</strong> O’Bryant, hasreasons for choos<strong>in</strong>g cats over dogs.“I like both cats and dogs, but I am mostused to cats,” says Ryan. “I like cats betterbecause <strong>the</strong>y are calm, <strong>the</strong>y are <strong>in</strong>dependent,and <strong>the</strong>y are not as excited as dogs.”Nataly Garcia, 15, is <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> can<strong>in</strong>e camp.“Dogs are better than cats because <strong>the</strong>yare friendlier,” says Garcia, who goes to <strong>the</strong>O’Bryant.She th<strong>in</strong>ks <strong>the</strong> reason that more homes<strong>in</strong> America have dogs than cats is becausedogs are loyal and can protect you, butcats cannot. ■AFH art by Savanna McKayAFH art by Sandra Chenculture clubAFH photo by Kach<strong>in</strong>a VallelyAFH art by Homar Wilsonbostontip.com / nov/dec 2012 / BOSTON TEENS IN PRINT / 19
culture club20 / BOSTON TEENS IN PRINT / nov/dec 2012 / bostontip.comAFH photo by Christ<strong>in</strong>a VivadaDecisions,decisionsBy Ilma Golemi // Staff WriterJulia Teixeira, 14, says that tak<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> test to go to <strong>the</strong> JohnD. O’Bryant School of Math & Science was one of <strong>the</strong> mostimportant decisions of her life.“Now O’Bryant is prepar<strong>in</strong>g me to go to a good college,”she says.Beyond <strong>the</strong> daily evaluations teens are forced to make —like what to wear to school — many also have to make decisions<strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir high school years that will affect <strong>the</strong>ir futures.The pressure is on. Many people later say that <strong>the</strong>y regretsome of those early judgment calls.Kalsie K<strong>in</strong>g, 14, says that when she has to pick a path, shewill ask her family for help — often her fa<strong>the</strong>r.“It is hard for me to decide between two th<strong>in</strong>gs,” says K<strong>in</strong>g,who attends <strong>the</strong> O’Bryant.Carla Rodrigues, 16, from <strong>the</strong> O’Bryant, may ask for <strong>in</strong>putfrom o<strong>the</strong>rs but <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> end she wants <strong>the</strong> choices to comefrom her.“I ask for advice from o<strong>the</strong>r people,” says Rodrigues, “but Ilike mak<strong>in</strong>g my own decisions.” ■Liar, liar,sk<strong>in</strong>ny jeans on fire!By Xhorxhia Papa // Contribut<strong>in</strong>g WriterFor 19-year-old Jason Huang, of West Roxbury, <strong>the</strong> top lies teens tell<strong>in</strong>clude topics like <strong>the</strong>ir pasts, <strong>the</strong>ir feel<strong>in</strong>gs, and putt<strong>in</strong>g blame on o<strong>the</strong>rs forth<strong>in</strong>gs <strong>the</strong>y did.“Ly<strong>in</strong>g has to do with when you are uncomfortable,” says Huang. “Littlewhite lies are what teenagers say.”Still, Huang says he believes that given <strong>the</strong> chance, most teens would tell<strong>the</strong> truth ra<strong>the</strong>r than make th<strong>in</strong>gs up. For many teens, <strong>the</strong>re is a sense ofguilt if <strong>the</strong>y fib and disappo<strong>in</strong>tment when <strong>the</strong> truth is revealed.Gloria Nwaoha, 17, from Urban Science Academy, says ly<strong>in</strong>g for her is nouse, s<strong>in</strong>ce people can tell because she breaks <strong>in</strong>to laughter or looks away.Kristiana Mbrice, 16, from Boston Community Leadership Academy,counts <strong>the</strong>se among <strong>the</strong> top teen lies: “I’m not s<strong>in</strong>gle,” “I love you, I loveyou,” “I don’t have a phone,” “I don’t have gum,” “Noth<strong>in</strong>g is wrong, I’m f<strong>in</strong>e.”<strong>Teens</strong> say <strong>the</strong>re are ways to help make sure that young people don’t deal<strong>in</strong> falsehoods: treat <strong>the</strong>m with respect, listen to <strong>the</strong>ir po<strong>in</strong>ts of view, andconfirm that you care about <strong>the</strong>m. ■AFH photo by Andy Guan
emotional rescueGreatexpectationsThey can pull you up orbr<strong>in</strong>g you downBy Penda Seck // Staff EditorMany parents, and society itself, practice <strong>the</strong> belief<strong>in</strong> expectations like it’s a religion. It is a way for peopleto punish or reward o<strong>the</strong>rs over what <strong>the</strong>y th<strong>in</strong>k isright and wrong, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g teens and <strong>the</strong>ir futures.Some treat expectations like a precious garden,cherish<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong>m with sunlight and water so th<strong>in</strong>gscan grow organically. With o<strong>the</strong>rs, however, fail<strong>in</strong>g tolive up to expectations can brand you as rebelliousand disobedient and a threat to <strong>the</strong> natural order ofth<strong>in</strong>gs.The delivery of external expectations can be a realisticway to help us reach our goals <strong>in</strong> life, but it canalso limit our choices and thoughts about who we are.In <strong>the</strong> worst cases, <strong>the</strong>se expectations can go beyondour imag<strong>in</strong>ations, change our identities, and controlour m<strong>in</strong>ds, expect<strong>in</strong>g us to act a certa<strong>in</strong> way even if itis contrary to our personalities.We shouldn’t fulfill o<strong>the</strong>rs’ hopes just to make<strong>the</strong>m happy while we are cry<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>side. We shouldbe answer<strong>in</strong>g to our own <strong>in</strong>ner voices about our ownbeliefs. ■You will fulfill my dreamsBy Penda Seck // Staff EditorBe politeBe braveBe <strong>the</strong> light we needEvery expectation nails you downBe <strong>the</strong> one, <strong>the</strong> example of <strong>the</strong> worldEvery desire punches you <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> faceBe <strong>the</strong> need, <strong>the</strong> help, and <strong>the</strong> achievementsEvery desire rips a piece of your humanityExpectations and unexpected screams <strong>in</strong>your head like a wild dog“Br<strong>in</strong>g me to <strong>the</strong> light of <strong>the</strong> world”It judges <strong>the</strong> known and unknown of yourhumanityExpect my expectations or I will hunt youlike a restless soulExpect me <strong>in</strong> your dreams, nightmares, andhappy daysExpect me <strong>in</strong> your desires and m<strong>in</strong>eBecauseMy anticipation is that you will fulfill mydreamsAFH art by George GonzalezGriev<strong>in</strong>g for a grandmo<strong>the</strong>rBy Penda Seck // Staff EditorYesterday’s smile and happ<strong>in</strong>ess became an ache of hopelessness and devastation when death took awaymy grandmo<strong>the</strong>r. Tears were left to comfort <strong>the</strong> pa<strong>in</strong> that was mov<strong>in</strong>g with<strong>in</strong> my heart like a sea of frustration.Even though I was six years old <strong>the</strong>n, I felt a bullet was shot <strong>in</strong>side me that left a wound that would neverheal.Despite o<strong>the</strong>r people be<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong>re to give me love and support, I still felt deeply <strong>the</strong> loss of my grandmo<strong>the</strong>r.There was a side of me question<strong>in</strong>g why she had to go so soon and leave me alone. And still to this day thisquestion haunts me whenever I see people walk<strong>in</strong>g on <strong>the</strong> s<strong>tree</strong>t with <strong>the</strong>ir grandmo<strong>the</strong>rs.I had lost <strong>in</strong>terest <strong>in</strong> life, and let <strong>the</strong> pa<strong>in</strong> consume me. But <strong>the</strong>n I learned to let it go because my grandmo<strong>the</strong>rwould have liked to see <strong>the</strong> happy face that I had yesterday, and would want me to make her proudwith my achievements.Grief is not an emotion that you can just conquer over a small time; it is a natural response to loss. Nowords can heal us completely because when we lose a person significant to us, it feels like one side thatmeans so much is torn to pieces. And no amount of sympathy manifestation will make it right.Still, to become overwhelmed by <strong>the</strong>se emotions is a risk to our health. Sometimes it is understandable todisregard parts of life because of our hurt, but at some po<strong>in</strong>t we should be grateful that not everyth<strong>in</strong>g wastaken from us. And <strong>the</strong> people that we lost will eventually want to see us happy for ourselves and for <strong>the</strong>mnow that <strong>the</strong>y are <strong>in</strong> a better place. ■AFH art by Mat<strong>the</strong>w Sheabostontip.com / nov/dec 2012 / BOSTON TEENS IN PRINT / 21
a&e22 / BOSTON TEENS IN PRINT / nov/dec 2012 / bostontip.com’Toon<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>“Ph<strong>in</strong>eas and Ferb”Just call it <strong>the</strong> new “SpongeBob”By La`Neece Byrd // Staff Writer“Ph<strong>in</strong>eas and Ferb” is a cartoon show that debuted <strong>in</strong> 2008 and is cast on<strong>the</strong> Disney Channel. It may be targeted for kids from six to 11, but many morepeople watch it than that.It has some of <strong>the</strong> same all-ages appeal as “SpongeBob SquarePants,”which came on <strong>the</strong> scene <strong>in</strong> 1999. In fact, a 2010 article <strong>in</strong> The New YorkTimes proclaimed “Ph<strong>in</strong>eas and Ferb” to be “<strong>the</strong> new ‘SpongeBob.’ ” One reviewercompared P&F’s cool wit to “The Adventures of Rocky and Bullw<strong>in</strong>kle,”one of <strong>the</strong> most iconic cartoons of all time.I like “Ph<strong>in</strong>eas and Ferb” because it makes me laugh. I love how <strong>the</strong>se twolittle stepbro<strong>the</strong>rs can build roller coasters, humongous ice sculptures, youname it.I enjoy all <strong>the</strong> characters. I feel as though <strong>the</strong>y play an important role <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong>show – especially <strong>the</strong> boys’ sister, Candace. She tends to spend her wholeday try<strong>in</strong>g to bust her bro<strong>the</strong>rs for every <strong>in</strong>vention <strong>the</strong>y make, but she neversucceeds.Every episode of this cartoon happens dur<strong>in</strong>g summer vacation, andPh<strong>in</strong>eas and Ferb build someth<strong>in</strong>g new every time. Ph<strong>in</strong>eas’ famous quote is,“Ferb, I know what we’re gonna do today!” Ferb does not talk much.What’s also <strong>in</strong>terest<strong>in</strong>g about this show is that <strong>the</strong> bro<strong>the</strong>rs have a pet platypusnamed Perry, who is a secret agent. Perry will leave <strong>the</strong> house to go fighthis arch-nemesis, Dr. Doofenshmirtz, and save <strong>the</strong> planet.When <strong>the</strong> boys are build<strong>in</strong>g someth<strong>in</strong>g, Ph<strong>in</strong>eas will notice Perry is gone andsay, “Hey, where’s Perry?”By <strong>the</strong> end of <strong>the</strong> day, Perry is back but <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>vention has magically disappeared.Candace, of course, is left <strong>in</strong> shock because, without evidence, shehas failed, once aga<strong>in</strong>, to let her mo<strong>the</strong>r know what <strong>the</strong> boys are up to. ■“SpongeBob”soaks up teens’ attentionBy Shanique Lewis // Staff EditorAFH photo by Kach<strong>in</strong>a Vallely“SpongeBob SquarePants” is <strong>the</strong> type of TV cartoon that doesn’t have an agelimit.This addictive Nickelodeon animation that premiered <strong>in</strong> 1999 captures <strong>the</strong>eyes of both kids and adults. At one po<strong>in</strong>t, accord<strong>in</strong>g to an article <strong>in</strong> The New YorkTimes, almost five million grown-ups were tun<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> every week.“I love ‘SpongeBob’ because when I was younger that’s <strong>the</strong> only show I reallyenjoyed watch<strong>in</strong>g,” says Mar<strong>in</strong>a Brea, 16, from Boston Community LeadershipAcademy. “And it’s like when I got older, I ga<strong>in</strong>ed a deeper understand<strong>in</strong>g of <strong>the</strong>show – and it’s hilarious.”Kids watch this show because of <strong>the</strong> creative under-<strong>the</strong>-sea creatures and <strong>the</strong>life lesson of friendship. On <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r hand, adults enjoy this show because it isflat-out funny.Reviewers say that one appeal of ‘‘SpongeBob” to all ages is that it offers simplegoof<strong>in</strong>ess <strong>in</strong> a complex world filled with gloom.One deeper mean<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>volves <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>teraction between SpongeBob, <strong>the</strong> seasponge, and his best pal Patrick, <strong>the</strong> starfish, and how to build a lifelong friendshipwith someone that you care about.“It is a very close relationship,” says Taika Lamy, 16, from BCLA.Despite its loyal fandom, some teens believe <strong>the</strong> show is po<strong>in</strong>tless.“I ra<strong>the</strong>r not watch it,” says Janisel Hernandez, a junior at BCLA, “for <strong>the</strong> purposebeh<strong>in</strong>d it is noth<strong>in</strong>g.” ■AFH art by Cynthia G<strong>in</strong>netti
<strong>the</strong> sport<strong>in</strong>g lifeBasketball diaryBy Telisha Rutledge // Contribut<strong>in</strong>g WriterWhen I was younger, I used to be mad because girlscan’t play <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> National Basketball Association. I wantto play <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> Women’s National Basketball Association,but I th<strong>in</strong>k that <strong>the</strong> NBA is so much more aggressive andfast-paced than <strong>the</strong> WNBA. The NBA is more <strong>in</strong>terest<strong>in</strong>gbecause everyone’s always do<strong>in</strong>g fancy shots andpasses, while <strong>the</strong> WNBA focuses on fundamentals. Iunderstand that girls can’t play <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> NBA because <strong>the</strong>guy players are stronger.I wish that <strong>the</strong> WNBA was better so that I would bemore motivated to get <strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong> league. My favorite WNBAplayer is Candace Parker.Parker’s 2009 season <strong>in</strong>spired me to one daybecome a WNBA player. Even though she missed eightgames because she gave birth to her daughter, Parkerstill managed to lead <strong>the</strong> WNBA <strong>in</strong> double-doubles and<strong>in</strong> rebounds per game.My favorite NBA player is Kobe Bryant. Bryant is oneof <strong>the</strong> most valuable players <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> NBA.Bryant didn’t go to college; hewent straight to <strong>the</strong> NBA fromhigh school.A lot of o<strong>the</strong>r peoplemight disagree, but Ith<strong>in</strong>k Candace Parkerwould beat KobeBryant <strong>in</strong> a game ofone-on-one. ■Tra<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g dayOff-season athletes prep for game timeBy Alexandra Zuluaga // Staff WriterPlay<strong>in</strong>g a sport <strong>in</strong> high school takes rigorous dedication. You have to be mentally, emotionally,and — most importantly — physically fit. While regular gym visits and healthy foodenvelope your athletic season, just how do your habits keep up dur<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> off-season?Lorenz Graham, 16, of Boston Lat<strong>in</strong> School, admits his physical tendencies aren’t alwaysspot-on dur<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> off-season,“A few days after <strong>the</strong> end of <strong>the</strong> season, I try to keep up with push-ups and sit-ups, but justend up be<strong>in</strong>g lazy,” says Graham.Graham’s daily <strong>in</strong>-season squash regime consists of runn<strong>in</strong>g 10 spr<strong>in</strong>ts, do<strong>in</strong>g 25 pushupsand 25 sit-ups, and <strong>the</strong>n ano<strong>the</strong>r six spr<strong>in</strong>ts, along with 45 m<strong>in</strong>utes of play<strong>in</strong>g squash.He does this sport three days a week, 9 months a year, from October to June.Some athletes take a few weeks to relax and lay back, but soon take precautions to makesure <strong>the</strong>y’re <strong>in</strong> shape for <strong>the</strong> upcom<strong>in</strong>g season.Nya Gav<strong>in</strong>, 16, who is a cheerleader for <strong>the</strong> BLS football team, says: “For about a month, Ieat what I want and don’t worry about work<strong>in</strong>g out. But after that, I start go<strong>in</strong>g to <strong>the</strong> gym toprepare for <strong>the</strong> next season.”This means runn<strong>in</strong>g on <strong>the</strong> treadmill for 45 m<strong>in</strong>utes, three days a week.Sports teams range <strong>in</strong> criteria, but every team requires stam<strong>in</strong>a and devotion. Evenwhen athletes let <strong>the</strong>ir spoons get <strong>the</strong> better of <strong>the</strong>m, it’s important to give <strong>the</strong>ir bodiesa few weeks head start before kick<strong>in</strong>g-off <strong>the</strong>ir athletic preparation.Keep<strong>in</strong>g that <strong>in</strong> m<strong>in</strong>d, gett<strong>in</strong>g back <strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong> sw<strong>in</strong>g of th<strong>in</strong>gs is never easy.“I dance for n<strong>in</strong>e months, and dur<strong>in</strong>g my vacation I run every o<strong>the</strong>r morn<strong>in</strong>g for30 m<strong>in</strong>utes,” says M<strong>in</strong>as Zahopoulos, 16, of BLS.Zahopoulos travels <strong>the</strong> world for national competitions, and his Monday-Saturdaypractices consist of 40 m<strong>in</strong>utes of cardio (squats, sp<strong>in</strong>n<strong>in</strong>g, jump<strong>in</strong>g) and onehour and 20 m<strong>in</strong>utes of Samba, Rumba, Paso Doble, and jazz danc<strong>in</strong>g.“It’s twice as hard to get my body used to danc<strong>in</strong>g after vacation,” he says, “becausemy muscles relax and forget how much work competitive dance really is.” ■AFH photo by Dom<strong>in</strong>ic DuongAFH photo by Karolyn Diazbostontip.com / nov/dec 2012 / BOSTON TEENS IN PRINT / 23
Webs of angerBy Alexandra ZuluagaThere’s an entic<strong>in</strong>g sort of thrillAbout angerIt creeps its way up your sk<strong>in</strong> like a long-limbed spiderStealthyFull of elegance and poiseBut spiders don’t just crawl, <strong>the</strong>y strutAnd anger strutsSelf-assured, beautifulAnd if anger could see, it would have black beads for eyesAnd eight arms because <strong>the</strong>re is noth<strong>in</strong>gAnger can’t reachAnd if anger could talk, it wouldn’t say a wordBecause its tales of misery and deceit lie <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> crevices of <strong>in</strong>tricate websAnd anger hides <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> corners of your m<strong>in</strong>dSo a few days from now, when you’re rejoic<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> sunlight and feeble-m<strong>in</strong>ded funRemember <strong>the</strong> world is full of spidersAnd we’re all tangled up <strong>in</strong> websTiP art by Jamal YoungYour futureBy Ieisha SampsonYou can see that girlS<strong>in</strong>ce she hides beh<strong>in</strong>d broken glassShe’s a clever girlShe knows you cannot approach herThe glass is pa<strong>in</strong>fulPa<strong>in</strong> that she has learned to endureYou can speak to herS<strong>in</strong>ce she will be able to hearShe’s not sociableSo she’d ra<strong>the</strong>r ignore your callShe’s been hurt beforeThe hurt that only she’s been throughYou can learn from herShe knows of th<strong>in</strong>gs that are untoldBut she won’t teach youYou have to learn <strong>the</strong>m on your ownShe has faith <strong>in</strong> youBut you have to go <strong>the</strong> distanceMy angelBy Mussuba SamatiIf you don’t believe <strong>in</strong> angels, you haven’t metMy affectionate aunt, Tia Terez<strong>in</strong>haYou are <strong>the</strong> greatest person to me on this earthYou have <strong>the</strong> biggest heartWith you <strong>in</strong> my life, I am blessedYou are God’s gift to meThe good you do for me will never be forgottenEven though our distance is apartYou’re <strong>in</strong> Gu<strong>in</strong>ea-Bissau, I am <strong>in</strong> AmericaI realize that love is miss<strong>in</strong>g you because we are apartBut somehow I feel warm <strong>in</strong>side, I know you’re much closerIn my heartWith you <strong>in</strong> my life, I am blessedYou have always spoken upYou taught me that our silence will not protect usYou have become my savior and my angelWith you <strong>in</strong> my life, I am blessedAll that I am today or hope to be, I give you <strong>the</strong> credit forThank you for be<strong>in</strong>g my angelYour smileBy Tenneh SesayWow, your smileThe best smileThe most wonderful smileWhen you smileYou let <strong>the</strong> sun sh<strong>in</strong>eSmile, baby, smileSmile so <strong>the</strong> bad thoughts will leaveSmile for <strong>the</strong> sake of lifeSmile because of <strong>the</strong> hope left <strong>in</strong> lifeA smile is someth<strong>in</strong>g that br<strong>in</strong>gs a way to have a lucky dayYour smile gives me joy, and brightens my daySo smile, baby, smileSmile those sweet smilesYup, love <strong>the</strong> beauty of your smile’Cause your smile is so <strong>in</strong>nocent and pure