Senior Issue

STUDENT NEWSPAPER OF AGOURA HIGH SCHOOL WWW.AGOURACHARGER.COM June 2012

THE CHARGER2012 Valedictorians

Sandra ChoiUniversity of the Pacific

Avni DesaiUC San Diego

Lucky DingUC Berkeley

Alyssa FlandersChapman

Jacob Fratkin Rachel GoldbergGilbert GhangDavid GallopUCLA UC Berkeley Colgate University

Zachary Greene

University of Michigan

Brian Hertz Zachary Johnson Nicole JordanUC Berkeley UCLA Stanford

Jonathan LaiUC Berkeley

Tiffany LayUC Berkeley

Jessica PhamUCLA

Gabe PolskyCornell

Washington Univ-St. Louis

Meera ReghunathanCal Tech

Miles SchimmelVanderbilt University

Brynn ShermanNYU

Louise SylvesterUCLA

Naveen Tadepalli Shannon Templeton Andrew Turk Hailey WahlCal Tech UC Santa Cruz UC Berkeley

2012 Salutatorians

Shiroo AshtariUCLA

Matthew GrossmanUniversity of Michigan

Taylor Jordan

Conor Kinford Alyssa KogelWake Forest University

Jordan PalmerVassar College

2012 Valedictorians

Bowdoin College

University of San Diego

Cornell University Photos by Peloso Photography

June 2012 Page 3 Tomorrow never dies: Prom 2012

Senior SportsJune 2012 Page 4

Jamie DepippoUNLV

Softball

“I love the atmosphere and the coaches and how they and the girls made me feel like a part of their family.”

Samantha StarkUCSB

Softball

“I love how it is right on the beach and so close to home. I also love the coaches and how beautiful the campus is. It has always been my dream to go to school there.”

Lydia BowmanSacramento State

Soccer

Megan LinderLMU

Water Polo“Not only is the campus beautiful, but the waterpolo program is very successful. They are top 5 in division one, and that’s exactly what I wanted.”

“The coaches showed a lot of interest in me, the campus is beautiful, and it is known for having the best kinesiology program in the state.”

Brooke HeldSan Francisco State

Soccer“The school itself is beautiful and allows me to get a great education while fulfilling a lifelong dream of playing the sport that I love at the college level.”

Danny McClintickUCLA

Water Polo“I chose to play water polo at UCLA because it’s close to home.”

Chase CockerillUCSD

Water Polo“I chose UCSD because I get to play water polo and live on the beach.”

Adam AbdulhamidStanford

Water Polo“It was the best balance of academics and athletics.”

Julie WatsonVentura College

Soccer“Playing soccer in college has always been my dream. Here I can play the sport I love while also receiving a quality education.”

Taylor C’debacaVentura College

Soccer“I can live at home and still play at the collegiate level. Going here for one year will set me up for greater opportunities in the future.”

Julian PattonSanta Barbara City

Football“I spent alot of my childhood in Santa Barbara so I really love the area. The football field is also right on the beach, so that’s a plus.”

Stephanie LordBoston College

Softball“I really enjoyed the campus and, the people. Also, I used to live there so that’s where all my family is. Boston is an amazing city and I look forward to spending my col-lege years there.”

India ForsterUCLA

Water Polo“It’s a place whereI can achieve my maximum potential and be a part of a team with fantastic players, including teammates I have played with on the Youth National Team.”

A word from our presidentsJune 2012 Page 5

Charger ScholarshipsThe graduating Class of 2012 collectively earned:

$1,603,076 in scholarship money!With that money you could buy.....

Class of 2012,

We did it! Woohoo! First off, let me say that it has been an amazing four years with all of you! I can honestly say that I have met most of you and know firsthand what awesome people we have in our class. I have enjoyed watching our class unite, whether it was pep rallies, scooter day, water assassins, senior picnic, or prom. Our class is unified in a way that is different from other years, experiencing both sad losses and great achievements. Every person in the Class of 2012 is so gifted and talented in many

different fields, such as art, music, film, sports, and even politics.

I know that everyone in the class will do incredible things and make an impact in our world! It has been a privilege knowing and growing up with all of you, and my hope is that we always r e m e m b e r. . .wherever our path takes us in our future, that we were a part

of the Agoura High School Class of 2012! Rock on my fellow seniors!

Kelsey McLaughlinSenior Class President

Agoura High School,

I am having a hard time imagining Agoura without this year’s seniors: I see an empty main quad, quiet basketball games, and a bare upper lot. They are a huge part of Agoura, and will be missed. As I look forward to next year, I feel such gratitude to Avni. She is an incredible example whose leadership style I hope to emulate. I am excited

Class of 2012,

It was Steve Jobs who said, “Right now is one of those moments when we are influencing the future.” Throughout senior year so much time is spent thinking about the future, counting down the days till summer. And now summer has come, the future is right in front of us. But when it has, I am left grappling with my emotions—excited to begin a new life in college but at the same time sad to leave this amazing place and these wonderful people. During the first semester of senior

year, we busy ourselves with plans for the future, but as graduation approaches, I think we realize that the future will fall into place and our experiences will mold our identity. Senior year is the emotional transition between the world of school at home and the real world out there. Being a part of the Class of 2012 means that we have memories that will last us a lifetime. We have given each other the best years of our lives and have grown as individuals through it all. But graduation is not simply an individual culmination of four years of hard work, it is

the last class unification we will have. It has been such a rewarding experience for me to watch our class this year as we have bonded with our peers, become comfortable with teachers and faculty, and made new relationships with people we may not be familiar with.My four years at AHS have shaped me. You all are the reason I am who I am today. Each one of you, whether directly or indirectly, has made a difference in my life, and I cannot thank you enough for that. We have all played a part in developing each other into the people that

we are. But as we embark on a bright future, we must not forget our past. I know we Chargers will be able to follow our dreams. Thank you Class of 2012 for making my senior year the best year of my high school career, and thank you AHS, for without the opportunities you have given us, we would have no future.Good luck in all your future endeavors!

Love, Avni DesaiASB President 2011-2012

to apply all that she has taught me. Next year will be wild. With increased pep rallies, more spirit opportunities, fresh class events, and grander fundraisers, an extraordinary year is inevitable. I am passionate about this school, and I look forward to representing you. So let’s do it up, Agoura! Let’s make it another great year.

Julia MahterianASB President 2012-2013Avni Desai

Outgoing ASB PresidentJulia Mahterian

Incoming ASB President

Hero - Mariah CareyAll For Love - Bryan Adams/Rod Stewart/StingPower of Love - Céline DionThe Sign - Ace of BaseBump N’ Grind - R. KellyI Swear - All-4-OneStay (I Missed You) - Lisa Loeb & Nine StoriesI’ll Make Love To You - Boyz II MenOn Bended Knee - Boyz II Men

Billboard Number One Songs1994 2012

photo by Katie Persons

Sexy and I Know It - LMFAOWe Found Love - Rihanna ft. Calvin HarrisSet Fire to the Rain - AdeleStronger - (What Doesn’t Kill You) - Kelly ClarksonPart of Me - Katy PerryWe Are Young - Fun ft. Janelle MonaeSomebody That I Used to Know - Gotye ft. Kimbra

5,344 3-day Passes

photos by Katie Persons

377,194 gallons of gas

534,358 Starbucks

Frappuccinos

7 2012 Ferrari Italias

* Information courtesy of the CCC

Page 7

COLORADO: COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY Eric Irshay Sean Williams

JOHNSON AND WALES UNIVERSITY, DENVERMatthew Levinson

UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO, BOULDER James Bedford Evan Dworman Bradley Elkins Rebecca Hartt Kate Izenstark Zoe Raynor Megan Salisbury Erin Silverman

UNIVERSITY OF NORTHERN COLORADO Samantha Smooke

HAWAII: UNIVERSITY OF HAWAII Morgan Brock

INDIANA: INDIANA UNIVERSITY Jeremy Friedman Chase Isaacs Hannah Straus

LOUISIANA: TULANE UNIVERSITY Hunter Bernstein

MAINE: BOWDOIN COLLEGE Hailey Wahl

MARYLAND: UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND Ameet Stuhl Leeor Stuhl

MASSACHUSETTS: BERKLEE COLLEGE OF MUSIC Arnold Sallan

BOSTON COLLEGE Stephanie Lord

BOSTON CONSERVATORY Sabina Stock

BOSTON UNIVERSITY Melissa Cook Paige Triplett

MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY Cheryl Gaul

NEW ENGLAND CONSERVATORY Bryce Leafman

NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITYJohnny Fayad

SUFFOLK UNIVERSITY Jessica Isroelit

MICHIGAN: UNIVERISTY OF MICHIGAN Jacob Fratkin Gabriel Gelbard Matthew Grossman Max Simon

MISSOURI: KANSAS CITY ART INSTITUTE Zoe Chressanthis

UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI Bita Eghbali

WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY IN ST. LOUIS Nicole Jordan

NEVADA: UNIVERSITY OF NEVADA LAS VEGAS Jamie DePippo

UNIVERSITY OF NEVADA RENO Matthew Callahan

NEW HAMPSHIRE: UNIVERSITY OF NEWHAMPSHIRE Elizabeth Kennerly Melissa Regan

NEW YORK: COLGATE UNIVERSITY Rachel Goldberg

CORNELL UNIVERSITY Connor Kinford Gabriel Polsky

HOFSTRA UNIVERSITY Cameron Freitag

THE JULLIARD SCHOOL Matilda Sakamoto

MANHATTAN SCHOOL OF MUSIC Nicholas Krsnich

NEW YORK UNIVERSITY Zoe Hoetzel Brynn Sherman Jordana Weiner

PACE UNIVERSITY Shalynne Armstrong

ROCHESTER INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY Kelichi Olelewe

SIENA COLLEGE Kimberly Chavez

SUNY-FASHION INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY Haley Freedman

SUNY-PURCHASE Emily Alperstein

Miriam Levenson

SUNY-STONYBROOK UNIVERSITY Jordan Shulman

UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER Ethan Bidna

VASSAR COLLEGE Jordan Palmer

WESTPOINT MILITARY ACADEMY Stephen Uyehara

NORTH CAROLINA: UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA, SCHOOL OF ARTS Lorenzo Lagola

WAKE FOREST UNIVERSITY Alyssa Kogel

OHIO: MIAMI UNIVERSITY Kayla Kaltenecker

OREGON: LEWIS AND CLARK COLLEGE Gregory Aaronson Rebecca Friedman Willow Markowitz Julian Varah-Sikes

OREGON STATE UNIVERSITY Shayne Krasovich Gaby Zacuto

PACIFIC NORTHWESTCOLLEGE OF ART Elizabeth McGrane

UNIVERSITY OF OREGON Erin Horwitz Matthew Kahn Chelsea Kanner Trevor Sampson Jonathan Workman

WILLIAMETTE UNIVERSITY Alexandra Tuchman

PENNSYLVANIA:DREXEL UNIVERSITY Hanako Itokazu

LEHIGH UNIVERSITY Justin Noddle

PENNSYLVANIA STATE Leah Hoholick Kellyn Holmes

UNIVERSITY OF THE ARTS Matthew Oster

RHODE ISLAND: JOHNSON AND WALES UNIVERSITY, PROVIDENCE Madeline Toledo

RHODE ISLAND SCHOOL OF DESIGN Edward Yang

ROGER WILLIAMS UNIVERSITY Jessica Kovac

TENNESSEE: BELMONT UNIVERSITYAustin Seegers Amanda Chamberlain

VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY Miles Schimmel

TEXAS BAYLOR UNIVERSITY Jennifer Miguel

SOUTHERN METHODIST UNI-VERSITY Kelsey McLaughlin

TRINITY UNIVERSITY Brody Fehmel

UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS Anastasia Kokiousis Ari Gootnick

UTAH BRIGHAM YOUNG UNIVERSITY Brian Coons Carlin Humphries

WASHINGTON: EVERGREEN STATE COLLEGE Katie Andruk

GONZAGA UNIVERSITY Julia Faherty

WASHINGTON STATEUNIVERSITY Amber Larks

WASHINGTON, D.C.: THE GEORGE WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY John Menges Ryan Moorman

WISCONSIN: UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN Josh Epstein

INTERNATIONAL: CENTRAL SAINT MARTINS COLLEGE OF ART AND DE-SIGN-LONDON Erika Maish

UNIVERSITE CATHOLIQUE de LOUVAIN Simon Huart

UNIVERSITY OF THE ARTS ñ LONDON Taylor Hardwick

“Oh, The Places You’ll Go...”

Page 6

ALABAMA: UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA Christopher Popovich

ARIZONA: ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY Tylyn HullMalcolm Hunter Lexie Katzman Nicholas Staley

NORTHERN ARIZONA UNIVERSITY Eric Budginas Johnny Grant Brooke Schneider

PHOENIX COLLEGE Dylan Franke-Garaway

UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA Jamie Aries Claire Bright Carly Fitch-Chinich Connor Fulton Lindsay Roberts Ashley Schimmel Jake Sherman Maorr Stockfish Dylan Wheeler

CALIFORNIA: ANTELOPE VALLEY COLLEGE Jessica Schulsinger

ART CENTER COLLEGE OF DESIGN Carson Lynn

BROOKS INSTITUTE Juliet Janklow

CABRILLO COLLEGE Iman Shahmiri

CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE FOR THE ARTS Samantha Roseman

CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY Naveen Tadepalli Meera Reghunathan

CALIFORNIA LUTHERAN UNIVERSITY Jessica Kimmel

CALIFORNIA POLYTECH-NIC STATE UNIVERSITY AT POMONA Lindsey Alpert Justin Cana

CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC STATE UNIVERSITY AT SAN LUIS OBISPO Nicole Davis Daniel Park Nayantara Viswanath

CAL STATE CHANNEL ISLANDS Evangeline Forster

Kerstin Guenther

CAL STATE CHICO Brent Blitstein Halle Lorkis Sarah Winikoff Samuel Wolfson

CAL STATE NORTHRIDGE Phoebe Aiken Chad Cohen Sean Gittelman Toree Hagensieker Grace Lurvey-Higgins Jaclyn Nadler Benjamin Weissman

CAL STATE SACRAMENTO Lydia Bowman

CAL STATE SAN DIEGO Natanel Almany Bailey Byers Glen Girbovan Daniel Lechman Brandon Mazel Carly Melber Jimmy Nguyen Mark Seyler

CAL STATE SAN FRANCISCO Brooke Held Melissa Covert Darya Fedorova Zoe Sinnott Montana Veenhuis

CAL STATE SAN JOSE Jessica Corsello Christian Meissner

CAL STATE SAN MARCOS Kayla Romey

CAL STATE SONOMA Graham Anenberg Dante D’Ovidio Sarah Flanagan Maya Hoholick Chelsey Rubinstein Sam Zartoshty

CHAPMAN UNIVERSITY Haley Barth Jacob Braunstein Alyssa Flanders Francesa Giglio Michael Kaplan Matthew Spector

COLLEGE OF THE CANYONS Cash Barden

CUESTA COLLEGE Megan Mercer

LOYOLA MARYMOUNT UNIVERSITY Ariana Berson Kiana Boyd Elizabeth Klein Sydney Kramer Megan Linder

MARYMOUNT COLLEGE Savanah Miller-Lambridis

MOORPARK COLLEGE Eric Aguilar

Jaime Alvarado Yadira Alvarado Laura Avery Kabir Bhullar Lauren Blaufuss Shaunna Blunk Daniella Chamorro Mukesh Chumber Jordan Court Kevin D’Anjou Jessica de Lange Henna Din Brandon Doyle Jordan Erickson Adam Galper Kevin Gilmond Matthew Hamilton Marissa Jaureguy Garo Kharadjian Ryan Larson Joshua Liss Eric Lorback Daniel Martyn Mekenzie Massey Gina Oshiro Lydia Polanco Harley Potter Saige Scott-Rowley Christopher Shahbazian Dylan Slater Adam sateinberg Julian Viole Chandler Vudmaska Chad Weireter Ashley Wilkins Bradley Williams Kevin Yebri

OCCIDENTAL COLLEGE Robert Cataldo

OTIS COLLEGE OF ART AND DESIGN Stephanie Minas

PIERCE COLLEGE Diego Aguirre Michael Kay Coertunay Krause

PITZER COLLEGE Kenneth Duke

SANTA MONICA CITY COLLEGE Alexis Campbell Jamie Dilbeck Sabrina Isay Shawnee Potts Samantha Sausser SANTA BARBARA CITY COLLEGE Larissa Arteaga Sarah Basta James Fetherolf Sharlene Hassani Aleck Husch Julian Patton Oren Peer Kelsie Turner

STANFORD UNIVERSITY Adam Abdulhamid Zachary Johnson

UC BERKELEY Lucky Ding Gilbert Ghang Zachary Green

Jonathan Lai Tiffany Lay Lauren Lechner Michael Medved Gabriel Paganin Andrew Turk

UC DAVIS Tessa Cohen Wassim Hmeidan Hengameh Kamali Shira Muroff Philip Press Amanda Prince Dylan Slater Douglas Wong

UC IRVINERohit Nair

UC LOS ANGELES Eric Adams Shiroo Ashtari India Forster David Gallop Brian Hertz Joel Manduke Daniel McClintick Quinn Miller Jonathan Nachum Jessica Pham Louise Sylvester

UC MERCED Luke Wilson

UC RIVERSIDE Nina Caudill Ranjit Nair Heather Paul Mallika Samtani

UC SAN DIEGO Kelcie Brodsky Chase Cockerill Avni Desai Caelin Hommel Alex McMahon Juhyun Oh Katie Persons

UC SANTA BARBARA Eldar Erlich Yoni Golan Bhanu Khanijau Lennon Palmquist Samantha Stark

UC SANTA CRUZ Kelly Abas Seth Abrams Lior Ayalon Jack Goldman Shannon Tempelton

UNIVERSITY OF SAN DIEGO Taylor Jordan Adriana Minicozzi

UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA Dalia Ameripour Adam Gootnick Noah Johnson Griffin Sears

UNIVERSITY OF THE PACIFIC Sandra Choi

“Oh, The Places You’ll Go...”

June 2012Page 8 up, up and away!

by Jessica Kovac The time is finally here. As I sit here writing my final journalism article, words cannot express the sadness I have to be saying that and knowing that it’s true. Arriving at my fresh-man orientation, I was completely naive of what I would endure in the next four years. As a freshman, you always hear the dreaded three words, “It goes by fast.” And as a freshman, you always give the same response-”I know.” But the truth is, you don’t know. And you never find out until the last day of senior year when you’re writing your last journalism article, performing your last dance recital, or simply re-ceiving your diploma. If you have ever seen a picture of me freshman year, you would double-take and say, “Wait a minute, that’s NOT you. That CAN’T be you!” Need-

less to say, I underwent one of the biggest changes of my life at this school. Coming from Manhattan, I was determined to love Agoura. And of course, the school did not disappoint. I came here mesmerized by pep rallies, football games, and school events. Freshman and sopho-more year, if you were at an event, chances are you would see me there, too. I was the girl taking pictures of the fireworks at the football games, and taking pictures of the football field instead of me and my friends. Needless to say, I was a tourist. I became extremely school spirited and never felt more connected to a school. AHS gave me a second fam-ily. However, don’t think I was only around for the good stuff. Believe it or not, some of my best memo-ries of this school are while I was waiting in the lunch line for tater tots. Whether it was tripping over

a water bottle in the middle of the quad, or dancing with my friends at homecoming, I never failed to end my day in laughter. The programs at this school have given me memories I will keep with me through every part of my life, whether it be learn-ing to sew or learning how to make a box in journalism. You’re told that your high school education is the education that will get you through life, and in a way, that is true. Be-yond academics, high school is the time that we learn who we are. (Yes, this is the part where I’m going to get cheesy). We learn what we want to do for the rest of our lives, who we want to be around, and what we truly enjoy doing in our spare time. High school is where you meet the people who shape who you become as a person. They make you who you are, and help you reach your goals and successes. High school is

where you meet the teachers who inspire you to decide what you want to do in the future. Now I know re-gardless what you are doing after high school, you have had at least one teacher at this school where you have walked out of their class and said, that is something I am re-ally interested in. What I am try-ing to say is, high school gives you the opportunity to discover those things and pursue them further, whether that be in college, travel-ing or doing anything else. As we take our next steps into the future, we go in with new-found knowl-edge from high school- knowledge that prepares us for our future en-deavors and gives us the confidence to move forward. So my advice to you, senior class, is remember how fast high school went, because my best guess is, the next couple years will only go by even faster!

it all started with a big welcome.... gooo freshmen!Op-Ed Editor

Congratulations Class of 2012!

While I am sure many of you are excited and scared about what the future will bring, I hope that you trust me as a teacher, father, and adult when I say that you are more than prepared. The common sense, compassion, and love that you showed to one another throughout this year is proof that you are quality people fully deserving a life full of love and happiness. You are bound to make this world a better place. Trust in yourself, follow your heart, and you will do well.

This year I’ve discovered that so many of you have endured tough times throughout your lives. These could have caused you to become bitter and apathetic. Instead, you came through those experiences unbelievably stronger, smarter, and even more beautiful. Throughout this year I watched you, time and time again, be there for one another, friends and non-friends

alike. You truly showed what it means to be a good human being. You left me completely awe-struck, inspired, and full of hope. While it was I who was supposed to teach and inspire, it is you who have taught and inspired me. More than you’ll ever realize. I feel that the love of family is the most powerful force that we can have as humans. There is the family we are born into and the family that we create with the people we choose to love. In all families there are good times and bad, heartbreak and joy, but in the end nothing can break the bond. More than anything I hope you consider all of us here at Agoura High as family, forever. I love you. We love you. And we wish you all the best.

This is our family. This is our Agoura.

With admiration, respect, and most of all love,

Mr. Pickett

pickett: seniors inspire feelings of awe, love, family

It’s been a fun year AHS, see ya around!-Journalism Seniors

(From Left to Right): Jessica Kovac, Bailey Byers, Matt Spector, Katie Persons, Lior Ayalon

You are My Kids because….you interrupt me when I’m talking,and you are so loud. Be quiet!,and you forget important things,and remember stupid things,and you make a mess,and don’t clean up after yourself,and I have to tell you 10 times,and you still don’t do it,and you “forgot,” again, and sometimes you are pretty irritating,and you talk more than you listen,and sometimes you don’t know what you’re talking about,and you make me smile,and I want to hear about your day,and you warm my heart,and you give more to me than I give to you, and you are beautiful,and I’m so grateful you’re in my life,and because you’re my students,You will forever be My Kids.

I truly love you like my own and I always will.

Gerald Pickett

Senior SpiritJune 2012 Page 9

Congrats, Class of 2012!!

June 2012 Page 10 Faculty Farewells I was hired in Las Virgenes in 1976 by the principal at AE Wright. I taught art, ceramics, photography and movie making. When prop 13 came though in 1979, which cut the state money to the district, my program was completely cut. I was out of a job. Three weeks later my principal called and asked if I could teach woodshop because the woodshop teacher just quit. I said, “Sure, I can do that.” I taught woodshop for the next 19 years. Our math department chair acquired 10 Tandy computers from Radio Shack in the early 80s. This was before Mac was invented. He asked if I could teach basic programming. I said, “Sure I can do that.” I was instrumental in building four computer labs at AE Wight over the next several years. I became the tech mentor to our school and later was offered a job at the district office to coordinate

teacher training in technology for all of Las Virgenes. So, in 1997 I left the classroom to coordinate training for all teachers. I was able to meet so many wonderful staff members at different schools and especially the art teachers at Agoura. In 2000 I was offered a job at AHS to teach graphic arts, ceramics and Photo III. I jumped at the chance

to come to this campus and teach art. I have loved being here for the last 12 years. I am going out on a high. I love my job, students and colleagues at Agoura. I have the best job in the world. Wishing you all the finest that life can

offer. Be good to each other the way you have made me feel with love, respect and valued. Remember, it goes both ways. I get so much from my students. I will leave with joy in my heart and full of great and lasting memories.Thanks for making my experience the “best!”- Mr. Quick

by Beth MaimanAgoura Alumni (‘11) The time has come for many of you to leave what we Agoura kids like to call “The Bubble.” As the time to go draws nearer, your anticipation grows larger. You may complain that The Bubble is boring, leaving one with minimal options of exciting things to do. You may believe that it is too compacted and too many people know too many things. The list of complaints is understandable, but I guarantee as you head off to college and to a new environment, there will be a few days that you will genuinely miss The Bubble. But without a doubt The Bubble was and always will be your home. Agoura High School will always be your alma mater. The experiences and memories you have will never be forgotten. You may have heard many people say “I Love College.” Rapper Asher Roth even wrote a song about it.

College is great. It is a fresh start. You are independent. Yes, there are parties and some unforgettable nights. However, I am here to give you some of the truth. The media doesn’t always portray college accurately. In fact, they often tend to leave the school part out, which happens to be a major part of the whole college thing. The hardest transition for me in college was adapting to the new level of schoolwork. School is stressful and there is a lot more reading. You must stay motivated. Get to know your professors and no matter how big your classes are, don’t be intimated to speak up. Although it was a transition, I have to say I have never been more confident in my ability to learn and succeed than I have here at college. I know I can write strong essays and ace tests when I study. The great thing about college compared to high school is that you have time. There is no longer the daily grind of block schedule. Use your free time to your

advantage. Be proud of yourself for graduating high school and starting the next step. Realize and appreciate the opportunity you have been given and make the most of it. One of the most frightening thoughts about college is the fear about making friends. You may feel that the connections you made in high school can simply not be replaced. This is somewhat true. Your high school friends will always be there. You will anxiously await your academic and vacation breaks so you can meet up at the Starbucks on Kanan Road to share some crazy college stories. Keep your connections with those friends, but be ready to make new friends as well. If you are living in the dorm, you will most likely meet people that you connect with. Personally, all of my hall mates have become a family to me. We all get along and I am so grateful. Although, this might not be everyone’s experience, at every school there are so many new people to get

to know. Be yourself and be open to people from all different walks of life. My father used to joke that I was ready to go far away to college the minute I set foot on the kindergarten playground. There was no doubt that I was always an independent kid, but no matter how independent you are, college is a new experience where most people struggle. College can be scary. You are in a new environment, surrounded by new people, with a new course load. My advice is to embrace all of it. Most likely you will be at this place for the next four years, so it is key you make the most of it. The majority of your college experience you have control over. Your education, social life, and extracurricular activities are all available for you to explore. Don’t hesitate to get involved in whatever interests you. Don’t forget who you are or where you come from, but accept the present and all that the future has in store.

Twenty-one years ago, I became a member of the Agoura High School community. Now 21 years later, it is time to say “good-bye.” As a member of the Library/Media Center, we have had to adapt to many changes. However, the support of the Administration, faculty, staff, and student body has helped me adjust to whatever challenges have come my way. What was once the library became the Media Center; what was once a quiet sanctuary became a bustling meeting place. No matter what name it went by, the library/media center evolved for the students, and they are responsible for keeping it a vital part of the school. It was this student-centered philosophy that I reminded myself of every time I came to work. It has been a joy to have had any part in helping to create a welcoming library, and to have had the opportunity to interact with the wonderful people at Agoura High School. In the future, I believe the library will always succeed because of this unwaivering support. Agoura High School has had a tremendous impact on both me and my family. I watched my children mature into independent adults during their time at AHS, and I was fortunate enough to have my son as a colleague during his student teaching tenure. I will always remember the unique personalities of the students; their wit and presence truly made the environment special. The Administration, counselors, faculty, staff, and parent volunteers provided me with immeasurable

support, and they were always there when I needed them. I have been fortunate to have been a member of this eclectic community for such a long period of time. It is a privilege to consider myself an Agoura Charger. I often thought of the Media Center as a mighty ship that travels around the world and partakes in grand adventures. Every day, students embarked on their own journey, whether it was battling the forces of technology to print a paper out before class, or collaborating with fellow students to put the finishing touches

on a group project, the media center always provided a new opportunity for personal growth and accomplishment. I am grateful to have been a part of Agoura High School.Recently I read an article about Little Free Libraries being

built all over the world that bring people together and create a sense of community. After reading this article, I said “wait a minute, this is what Agoura High School students have been doing all along.” You have the heart of the library. The library brings people together. I hope the library has been a rewarding place for you to be. I will miss seeing the people I work with and greeting the students who come to the library. However, I look forward to opening a new chapter in my life: when I retire I plan to make frequent trips to the beach, sit in the sun and of course, read a good book! Best wishes to everyone; be happy and stay as classy as you are Agoura!- Mrs. Thomas

Words from the wise: what to expect for your freshman year in college

Yvonne Thomas: : “That Library Lady” Bill Quick: Design in Glass, Contemporary Media, Golf Coach

The Charger wants to give a special farewell to these two beloved educators. May your retire-ment be full of happiness and relaxation! We would also like to say goodbye to ROP teacher, Mrs. Nesbitt and Science teacher, Mr. Mein-hardt. Goodluck in all your future endeavors! You will all be greatly missed here at Agoura.

Sayonara Seniors!June 2012 Page 11

Charger gave me a link to the school from the very first day of my freshman year. In a matter of class periods I was running around trying to find football players to interview and ASB members to photograph all while still figuring out the layout of AHS. The Charger gave me a tangible connection to the very center of what makes AHS tick, and without it I do not think my high school experience would be nearly as profound. They often say that you get out of an experience the amount of energy and effort you put into it, and I feel that Journalism helped me channel my energy directly into a rewarding high school career. During the four years I have been a Charger, I have learned so much about myself and about my community. As I continue onto the University of California, San Diego, I hope to learn more about the world and my place in it. I feel that my time in Journalism has given me a sturdy foundation to really

On to the next step of our livesby Katie PersonsManaging Editor It’s hard to believe that in just a matter of days I will walk across the bright green Astroturf of our football stadium and receive my high school diploma. I, along with about 500 of my peers, will wave goodbye to Agoura High School and board a bus that will take me to our Grad Nite—an event I’ve been looking forward to since I saw my older brother graduate four years ago. Just four years ago I started at AHS, and since then I have experienced so many new and exciting things, and grown in each of these instances. 2012 is a big year for my family. Both my brother and I are graduating, moving onto bigger and better things. However, while I say that I am moving onto better things, that’s not to say I did not appreciate my time at AHS. In all honesty, I have had a fulfilling and exciting time at this school and I believe that is thanks in part to my involvement in the Journalism class. The

by Bailey ByersMagazine Editor It feels so weird to be writing a farewell letter. The Journalism class has been my home for three years, where I’ve learned everything from writing a sports article to building relationships with future lifelong friends. It is so hard to say goodbye because I know that if I do, I am letting go of such an big part of my life. I think back to my first day in room C-7, Mrs. Hollister was going off about interview strategies, and I was absolutely terrified. I thought I made a wrong decision in choosing Journalism as my elective, and there was no way that I would be confident enough to

interview random strangers, much less big, scary administrators. Thankfully my best friend, and current co-magazine editor, Matt Spector convinced me to stay. Now, I wouldn’t even recognize that little, shy sophomore. Journalism has helped me grow and develop into the person that I am today by forcing me to overcome my fears, work with a team, and become a leader. It allowed me to pursue my love for writing and I am so thankful for that opportunity. Graduating high school is a scary thing because you are forced to let go of everything that is normal to you. It is hard to accept that this chapter in your life is over, because it has been

by Matt SpectorMagazine Editor In just a few short days, I will be graduating from high school. What? Come again? This doesn’t seem real. I still feel like a freshman. But the reality of it all is true. On Wednesday June 13, 2012, my high school career will be over. Just like that. Every test, every worksheet, and every pop quiz will be in the past. All that matters is right now. There were so many times when I would say to myself, “You have time, you’re only an underclassman.” Well, that mentality is long gone and has been replaced by something like, “Cherish these last few months, life will never be the same.” It’s crazy to think how much I’ve grown over the past few years. Both physically and

emotionally, I have transformed into a person I am proud of, mainly because of this class. Looking back on my three years in the Journalism class is bittersweet to say the least. Bitter because there are so many fond memories I have involving Journalism and everyone that was a part of it, but sweet because of where I go from here and how Journalism has helped shape who I am today. I remember walking into C-7 for the first time as a little freshy, waiting eagerly to talk to Mrs. Hollister and give her my application. I was eager and excited to start a new chapter in my life, one that I knew would be greater than the one before. I guess time flies when you’re doing something you love, and when you’re around the amazing people I was lucky enough to

by Lior AyalonNewspaper Editor If you’re reading this, you are reading the last article I will ever have published in The Charger. You are reading the last time I will have stayed up until 3 in the morning the night before deadline to get a story done. You are reading the last time I will pour a cup of coffee and wonder why I didn’t just write this a week ago, when it was assigned. You are reading the last time I ever finish my story, sigh with relief, and think “man, I can’t wait for everyone to read this!” In just a few days, I will graduate from Agoura High School. And with my diploma will also come my departure from The Charger. And to be honest, I thought I’d feel much sadder as I wrote my final article. I thought I’d write about how I would miss The Charger more than

set up my own unique spot in this world. As I sit here now, writing this letter, it is incredible to look back at my high school years and see how much I have changed. Whether it be my involvement with the YMCA’s Youth and Government, my volunteer work with the National Charity League, or the exciting time I spent as a yell leader earlier this year, I would say I had a complete and well-rounded high school experience. Not everything was easy, and there were certainly times that tested my patience and caused me a little trouble, but coming out of those times I can see it was worth it in the end. I am incredibly proud to have won Charger of the Month, participated in the many exciting ASB activities that my fellow class members tirelessly put on for us, and, finally, to have made my way through the ranks of the Journalism class. Being the Managing Editor of such an incredible class was a learning experience that I would not trade for

the world. Equally, it was rewarding to be able to create my own wesbite for the class (that later won an award!) as a lasting contribution to AHS. Without the encouragement of Mrs. Hollister and my parents and fellow journalists, I do not believe it would have been successful. I would like to take a moment now to thank my friends and family for supporting me throughout my high school career. To my best friends Adriana and Shiroo, who have supported me, danced with me, and laughed with me throughout high school and are honestly the most inspirational people I know, I love you guys so much. In addition to the supportive and motivating faculty and administration we have here at AHS, I would like to thank each and every one of our loyal readers who supported The Charger each month it came out. I am going to miss AHS very much next year, and I am grateful for all that it has given me. I am proud to be a Charger, and to the underclassmen: YOLO.

anything else in high school, and that I was proud of all the contributions I’d made to my community through my work on The Charger, and other sentimental type things. And don’t get me wrong; I do feel sad, I will miss it, and I am proud of myself. This is all true. However, what is also true is that I feel ready to move on, hopefully on to bigger and better things. After four years of proudly serving on The Charger staff, I feel as if my work here is done. I feel as if I’ve accomplished everything I set out to do. And to be honest, the class is no longer presenting me with the same types of challenges and critical thinking opportunities that it once did. Simply put, I’m feeling as if I’ve seen it all. Oh, sure, there’s plenty of problems that can arise while putting out a newspaper. But it’s been a very long time

since I was actually surprised by anything I’ve seen happen within the walls of C-7. When I look at all the issues I’ve contributed to, I feel an astounding sense of pride in my work. The past four years, my work has truly blossomed. I went from splitting infinitives and run-on sentences, to winning a first place award at The Annual Ventura County Star’s High School Journalism Competition. My voice developed from a stuttering, timid whisper, into a confident, and overly sarcastic declaration. And, I can’t help but feel that my past two years as newspaper editor, I’ve produced a newspaper that my classmates wanted to read. Some of my favorite memories of the class are walking into a classroom with an armfull of newspapers, and having one or two students enthusiastically ask for a copy

before I can even get all the way in the door. So in the end, am I sad to leave? Yes, of course I am. C-7 has been my home away from home for the past few years. I’ve made so many incredible memories and friendships in this room, it’s impossible to think for even a second that I won’t miss it. And truly, I do feel as if my work in The Charger has prepared me for whatever the future holds for me. And what does the future hold for me? I’m not quite sure. I am excited and nervous and scared and anxious and ecstatic and so much more, all at the same time. But above every other emotion, I know I feel ready to move on. Thank you to Mrs. Hollister, I’m not quite sure where I’d be today without your guidance. And thank you to all the loyal readers of The Charger. Everything I wrote, I wrote for you all.

meet. I have learned a lot during the three years I have spent in C-7. I have learned how to write journalistically, how to layout a page on Indesign, and how to get along with fellow coworkers. But most importantly, I have learned what it means to be part of a team. “Team” was a foreign word to me before my sophomore year. I was never the sports type in high school. That all changed when I chose to join this class. Journalism is my sport and the writers are my team. Mrs. Hollister is the greatest coach that a student could ever ask for. Her guidance and wisdom is something that I will never forget, even when I go away to college and get a job of my own. She is my role model and my rock, someone who I never want to lose contact with throughout the rest of my life.

Her passion for Journalism is admirable, something I would like to emulate during the rest of my life. Technically, writing this letter means that my years in Journalism are over. But, realistically, it is just the beginning. I have built a foundation of skills that will aid me in the future and will help me in my upcoming journalism endeavors. I may love The Charger and Charger Rag more than the typical Agoura High School student. But, this does not take away from the experiences and memories that involve period one. I will never forget these three years of my life. When struggle and pain have consumed me, the one thing that has stayed constant is Journalism. And, for the first time, I say thank you. Thank you Journalism. You have given me so much.

so amazing! This class has held much more significance to me than just an elective intended to preoccupy my day. My classmates became my friends, my teacher became my second mom, and my articles became my outlet. Moving on is exciting, but saying goodbye is not easy. Journalism has given me so much and I can honestly say that I am different because of it. I want to thank Matt for being there for me every second of every day, producing two magazines with you has created memories that I will carry with me forever. All that bickering was out of love! And most importantly, I want to thank Mrs. Hollister. You are the best teacher I have ever had and I don’t know

what I would have done without your guidance over the years. I am so grateful to have you both in my life. I know the underclassman will carry on our legacy and continue working hard to produce every publication. Try to appreciate the present because things change, people change, and one day you realize that you are all grown up and heading off to college. Even though I don’t feel this old, I know I have to give my final goodbye. Writing for the paper and producing the magazine has been such a wonderful experience. Thank you to everyone who read and supported us. And thanks to all my fellow seniors, its been a blast!

June 2012Page 12

Thank you to our fabulous senior officers!

You guys rock!

Kelsey MaclaughlinPresident

Zachary JohnsonVice-President

Na’ama GoldfillSecretary

Sam ZartoshtyTreasurer