28 Years

JAN 2017 $

8.95

Jumpstart your college experience at Penn: • Summer Academies • Pre-College Program • Young Scholars Program

Learn more at: WWW.UPENN.EDU/SUMMER

SUMMER IN NEW YORK CITY

With six distinct programs to choose from, ranging from entrepreneurship to dance, Barnard Pre-College Programs offer you the unique opportunity to explore an area of interest on a deeper level through both in-class discussions and city exploration. As part of the learning experience at Barnard, you will get a taste of both college life and the Big Apple!

Application goes live in January

Pre-College Programs

barnard.edu/summer

BARNARD COLLEGE

America’s Top Teen-Only Summer Camp

su

Experiment Explore Grow

fwsportsarts.com

er mm

ign academy des

explore July 3 - 28, architecture, urban design and city planning in a studio setting

17 20

workshop

Poetry Fiction Creative Nonfiction

Three-week summer program for high school students APPLY NOW 92Y.org/YoungWriters UNTERBERG POETRY CENTER 92nd Street at Lexington Avenue, NYC

Alfred University Creative Writing SUMMER INSTITUTES

These exciting institutes provide introduction to four of the most important and powerful genres: poetry, short fiction, creative non-fiction and drama. High school students from all over the country come to Alfred University each summer to participate in these fascinating programs. Experience academic excellence and the joy of discovery at Alfred University this summer!

Kutsher’s Sports Academy Professional sports instruction in a traditional camp environment.

www.ksa.camp

The

WHALE CAMP

at the

Fundy Marine Science Institute Face-to-face with whales, porpoises, puffins and lots of marine life

$40,000 College Scholarships Available HANDS-ON MARINE SCIENCE, OCEANOGRAPHY & WHALE RESEARCH ON GRAND MANAN ISLAND BETWEEN MAINE AND NOVA SCOTIA

Free Brochure & Info:

www.whalecamp.com A k Ab

t

Office of Summer Programs Alfred University Alfred, NY 14802 607-871-2612 [email protected] www. alfred.edu/summer

RINGLING COLLEGE OF ART + DESIGN

PreCollege

2017

June 25-July 22

Ringling.edu/precollege

SUMMER PROGRAM REVIEWS A sampling of reviews – unsolicited, heartfelt, and real – from TeenInk.com

Whale Camp My daughter, age 15, went to Whale Camp in summer 2014 and loved it! Still talks about the experience and what she learned. Kathy P. (parent)

Ringling College of Art + Design PreCollege I didn’t know art school was an option until I attended PreCollege at Ringling. People do this because they love it and it’s a part of them, not just a hobby. I’ve always been serious about my art, so it was nice coming to an environment where everyone else felt the same way. Emily R.

Alfred University Summer Writing & Acting Being a public school student whose high school is very limited for pursuing my writing passion, Alfred University’s Creative Writing Institute was an engaging, affordable way to extend my knowledge. Classes were relaxed, though not lazy. We engaged in a variety of valuable exercises to boost creativity, which included drawing a childhood memory map and writing American sentences (an exercise invented by Allen Ginsberg). Well-organized recreational activities were offered at night, as well as visits to the local coffee house. While the camp is relatively short, students create connections and friends that will endure long past the five days on campus. Julia A.

Art: Summer at Penn I went here for three years and absolutely loved it. Everyone is accepted in every single aspect (i.e. everyone gets a part in a musical or play, everyone finds a group of friends, everyone can do their own arts or play any sport they like!). Mark and Susan, the camp owners, go out of their way for the kids here. I am actually stopping this camp to pursue my riding career, but as a person who didn’t do a play or musical, I was honestly never bored. Last summer was sadly the last year for me, but this camp has a special place in my heart. Sabrina R.

Putney School Summer I had the most phenomenal experience at the Putney Summer Programs! It was a truly magical experience that I will never forget. I was surrounded by the kindest, most caring and down-to-earth people while pursuing the art that I loved most. I was able to greatly increase my knowledge about not only theater, but art in general. Putney is one of the most amazing places I have ever been. The community was amazing to be a part of, and I feel I left a

REVIEW YOUR

much better actress than I came. I learned so much about character development, improv, Shakespeare, and so much more. I would definitely recommend this program to anyone interested in the arts! And the food is delicious! Eliza M-H

embARC at UC Berkeley This program guided my first attempts to design, model and draft my perception. I found a voice and a spunk within me that I did not know I possessed. Meixi L.

Art on the Farm at Cow House Studios I completely lucked into being a part of Frank and Rosie’s first (and eventually third) year of Art on the Farm. It was one of the greatest and most beneficial experiences of my life. My first year, I had the goal of creating a portfolio with which to apply to my high school’s AP Art course, and my second time at Cow House, I put together a college portfolio with which to apply to art schools this past fall. Both endeavors proved very successful thanks to the work I did while at Cow House. Both trips were truly incredible experiences, and I attribute a large part of my success with art school admittance to the guidance, support, and confidence that I received from Frank and Rosie at this program. Emma McClurg

Between the Lines: International Writing Program These two weeks opened my eyes to a glimpse of a whole new world – and there’s so much I haven’t seen yet. From cultural exchange at the Russian and Arabic 101s to learning about Russian hipsters (Stilyagi) and eating dinner at a mosque, I realized that there’s a whole universe out there just waiting to be explored. I don’t hope I’ll see these people again; I know I will. And if not in person, then in the news, because the talent and promise of the writers I’ve encountered here will surely be noticed. This isn’t good-bye. This is just the beginning. Hannah

French Woods French Woods is life-changing for any artist, crafts-person, outdoor enthusiast, or just plain kid-at-heart. I have attended for the full summer (12 weeks, sometimes more!) every summer, for the past six years. This last summer was the first one I spent as a staff member, so from both sides, I can say that it is a huge growing experience. There hasn’t been a summer

FAVORITE SUMMER PROGRAM

AT

TEENINK.COM

yet that wasn’t filled with laughter, smiles, tears, heartbreak, art in every form, freedom, and any and every possible activity, within the confines of the property, as well as in trips to the “outside world.” I say outside world in quotes because French Woods is a world within itself. Major world events have happened, both good and bad during my time at camp, but the amazing part is no matter how bad, good, or crazy things get, there is always a support system, whether it be through friends, family, staff member, fellow campers, all the way up to the owner of the camp, and all the way down to the youngest junior camper. No matter what you experience here, the one truth that will stand 99.9% of the time is that you are safe, and can most likely, if not by yourself, with the help of others, find a comfortable spot and/ or mindset. No matter your background, no matter who you think you are before you get to camp, almost everyone leaves feeling stronger, more accomplished, and more mature and tolerant of differences. I love French Woods, the area, the family, everything to do with it, and will forever consider myself part of their family Ansel Cohen

Barnard Pre-College Program Going to school during the summer never sounded like a ton of fun. At Barnard’s Summer in NYC program, even though you are taking college-level classes, it never really feels like work. I was in a course entitled Creating Fantastic Fabulist Fiction, taught by Melanie Fallon. During that one-week period, we not only learned what “fabulist fiction” is (think: ghost stories and fairy tales), but we wrote our own fabulist fiction stories. To get inspiration, Melanie took us to the Guggenheim Museum and to Gramercy Park, the only private park in Manhattan. Megan

Cornell University Summer College Cornell Summer College was one of the best summers of my life. The program was absolutely outstanding. All of the classes are college-level and contain a mix of high school and college students, which allows the high school students to interact with and learn from their older peers. There are lots of classes to choose from, as well as some extracurricular activities just for summer college students. The staff plans all kinds of events for each residence hall and for the summer college community as a whole. There are also speakers, extra help for math and writing, and college admissions workshops. This program solidified my decision to apply early to Cornell University, and I’ll be starting my freshman year at Cornell this fall along with one of my

good summer college friends. I learned so much from my summer at Cornell, both socially and academically. It’s an amazing program, and I would recommend it to anyone. Ariel C.

Smith College Going to Smith’s Women’s Writing Workshop was quite an amazing experience. I felt completely comfortable with and empowered by the other young women there. Shortly after the program, I submitted a poem to Teen Ink that was published in the print magazine. The best part was, I had written it in my poetry class at Smith. It was the first time I felt part of a dedicated community. I miss the fun times I had there, and I can say that it’s definitely an experience all writers should try. Vanessa S.

University of the Arts Pre-College Summer Institute Everything about this program was outstanding! The people I met and all the teachers continue to inspire me every day not only to be a better actor, but to be more aware of my surroundings and to be a compassionate person. If you’re looking for an intense learning experience not only about your craft but about yourself, and you’re willing to expand your mindset about what’s possible, I highly recommend this program. Eviva Kahne

Iowa Young Writers’ Studio I had an awesome teacher and about seven other people in my class. It was very intimate. We all got along incredibly well. The Iowa Young Writers’ Studio is an incredibly enriching and fun experience. I literally had the best two weeks of my life. I don’t think there is any other writing program in the United States better than the Iowa Young Writers’ Studio. That’s it – that’s the peak of rigorous and rewarding learning opportunities for high school students. And when you go – because I hope you get in – you’ll know. Bianca J.

Sewanee Young Writers’ Conference I highly recommend the Sewanee Young Writers’ Conference. I went over the summer and am proud to say that it was the best two weeks of my life. The instructors were amazing, as were the people there. I made lifelong friends and wrote like crazy. If you have the chance to go, do it. It’ll change your life. Sarah Fitts

J A N U A RY ’ 1 7

• Teen Ink

3

FEEDBACK The Power of Words I agree with YuQi Zhang when she writes about how one’s choice of words can completely change the way something is perceived in “The Power of Words.” When people see the news, myself included, we tend to believe that everything reporters say must be true. We forget that even they can be biased, and it’s horrifying to see how much the truth can be changed with just a couple of words. Nobody deserves to be wronged because of falsehoods, especially two students whose lives were lost. This essay has really struck a chord with me. Before, I didn’t pay much attention to word choice. I blindly believed most things I heard. Thanks to YuQi, that has changed. The power words hold needs to be used cautiously, and we must be aware that there are those who seek to manipulate the truth. Best of luck to you, YuQi. I thank you for being someone who will report the news truthfully, especially for tragedies like these. Shaleah Abreu, Valley Stream, NY

The Electoral College, Explained I didn’t understand the dilemma regarding the electoral college before I read “The Electoral College, Explained” by Sarah Geis. I had seen some posts on social media about it, but I only had a vague sense of the problem. Sarah’s essay explains what the electoral college is, why it was implemented, and why it isn’t a good system for democratic voting. She also explored other options for electing a president. Sarah raises the point that the electoral college was created because “the Founding Fathers felt that giving the vote directly to the people could be risky.” This essay really made me think about our voting system. I believe that the electoral college does not do a good job

To submit your feedback or find the articles mentioned, go to TeenInk.com

representing American voters. It attempts to “give power to the small states” by taking it away from the larger populations, grouping votes together so that in a city that voted mostly for one person, votes for the other candidate do not seem to count. If someone loses the popular vote but wins the presidency, can we really say that we, the people, chose him or her to be our president? Chiara Cecchini, Brooklyn, NY

I Shouldn’t Have to Write This I wholeheartedly agree with Justin Smalls in his article “I Shouldn’t Have to Write This.” Black individuals shouldn’t have to think twice about just stepping outside, afraid of being shot by police because of the color of their skin. In his piece he writes, “I saw footage of a white man fight off two officers for a prolonged period of time before being tazed by the police and restrained without lethal force, knowing full well that had it been a black man, he would have gotten two in the chest before he even got up off the ground.” Aren’t we all supposed to be equal no matter what our color or race? No one should have to fear police officers who are supposed to protect us, not harm us. Thank you, Justin, for inspiring me to share my thoughts about this issue. Anahi Rivera, Phoenix, AZ The statement “I Shouldn’t Have to Write This” is very powerful. It’s powerful because it’s true. Justin Smalls writes about his outrage that minorities are being murdered by those who are supposed to be protecting them. He’s tired of reading about the broken system and people trying to blame the victims and speak poorly about their past. He’s worried about himself and his friends getting home safely. I can relate to this completely. Being a minority, I have to

worry about the way I carry myself all the time, to avoid being treated as a stereotype. To worry and have to pray for myself and my friends making it home safely is sad, especially when I’m not doing anything wrong. Then if I say that black lives matter, people get mad and offended, replying, “All lives matter.” But how can we worry about all lives if we can’t stop the hatred in the world for one? There will never be peace, but we shouldn’t fight our family, brothers, and sisters in this superpower country, where we dream big things and make them bigger. Then again, I shouldn’t have write this. Maya Smith, Valley Stream, NY

The Best Revenge I Ever Got “The Best Revenge I Ever Got” by Angela Becker is about her life as young person with a disability and how she rose above the challenges and proved herself to those who never expected a lot from her. She suffered from low self-esteem as a child because her teachers said she had an “inability to learn.” Fortunately, Angela’s fortitude and support from friends and family enabled her to conquer her challenges. Angela proved her teachers wrong by rising far beyond their expectations. This girl who was once declared “ineducable” by teachers is now a college student. The fact that she blew away the disabilities haunting her shows that you can deal with negativity internally, and the experience, wisdom, and endurance you gain is more satisfying than being angry. Angela’s memoir teaches all of us two important lessons: to push your limitations and revenge can result in self-improvement. Her situation and how she dealt with it shows that we can be whoever we want to be, regardless of those holding us back. This memoir is inspiring and shows the fulfilling, positive effects of the relentless pursuit of your goals. Eric Lo, Brooklyn, NY

How I Became a Monster Box 30 • Newton, MA 02461 (617) 964-6800 [email protected] www.TeenInk.com Publishers

Stephanie Meyer John Meyer

Chief Strategist

Deb Raisner Thompson

Senior Editor

Stephanie Meyer

Managing Editor

Emily Sperber

Production

Katie Olsen

Editor

Cindy Spertner

Assistant Editor

Natasza Gawlick

Advertising

John Meyer Natasza Gawlick

Volunteer

4

Barbara Field

Teen Ink •

CIRCULATION Reaching millions of teens in junior and senior high schools nationwide. THE YOUNG AUTHORS FOUNDATION The Young Authors Foundation, publisher of Teen Ink, is a nonprofit corporation qualified as a 501(c)3 exempt organization by the IRS. The Foundation, which is organized and operated exclusively for charitable and educational purposes, provides opportunities for the education and enrichment of young people. FREQUENCY Ten monthly issues, from September to June. ADDITIONAL COPIES Send $8.95 per copy for mailing and handling.

J A N U A RY ’ 1 7

NOTICE TO READERS Teen Ink is not responsible for the content of any advertisement. We have not investigated advertisers and do not necessarily endorse their products or services. EDITORIAL CONTENT Teen Ink is a monthly journal dedicated to publishing a variety of works written by teenagers. Copyright © 2017 by The Young Authors Foundation, Inc. All rights reserved. Publication of material appearing in Teen Ink is prohibited unless written permission is obtained. PRODUCTION Teen Ink uses Adobe InDesign to design the magazine.

When I began reading “How I Became a Monster,” I was intrigued but definitely did not expect to identify with the piece. “Deb” writes about her immigrant parents and their financial struggles. Her mother worked relentlessly to provide for the family, and Deb describes how she got so caught up in fighting for her own success that she neglected her family and forgot their strong love and commitment to her. This article reminded me of my own parents. I am a senior in high school, and the future seems quite intimidating. College decisions are creating a lot of stress. One of the hardest challenges to deal with is that neither of my parents attended college. We are all out of our comfort zone. Recently I have been getting upset and frustrated with them because I feel like I am doing everything and not getting the support I need. This article reminded me that my parents are supporting me in other ways, and I tend to forget their unconditional love and instead resort to anger.

I was especially struck when Deb wrote about her dad crying. My father is very passionate about his family, and I have rarely seen him cry. His tears are always a wonderful reminder of his love for me. Deb, I know writing this piece was difficult and admitting your faults was hard, but thank you for sharing your heart! Chantell Martin, Goshen, IN

High School Politics In “High School Politics” by Julia Coccaro, she talks about how “being a liberal in Alabama is strange and uncommon” in a conservative Republican part of the country. She stated that she wasn’t in any club in her school and that she wanted to start a chapter of the High School Democrats of America. When she first started out she had a hard time finding a sponsor and worried whether anyone would join. Her friends confronted her, saying, “Are you joking? We’re in Alabama. Nobody’s going to come to your meeting,” but she stayed strong and got her Democrats club up and running. I can relate to this because I once pulled something off that no one thought I could. I worked very hard, and it took several years to accomplish. One of the most important things that Julia did was keep trying. I wouldn’t have accomplished my goal without staying positive and working to get the job done. There were times when I wanted to give up or was feeling depressed because it didn’t go exactly as planned, but just like Julia, I got it done. Dalton Outlaw, Alvord, TX

Deck the Malls I found Anna Sparks’ article, “Deck the Malls,” extremely interesting. I agree with her statement “Never underestimate the elderly.” Many see seniors as weak, which makes people think they can boss them around. I never realized how crazy and dangerous Black Friday was. Her description of Black Friday is very vivid, especially referencing the scene from “‘The Lion King’ when Mufasa is killed by the stampede, and I am Mufasa, being trampled by crazed wildebeest.” Thank you for leaving us with the idea “is it really worth getting hurt for bargains?” Fabiola Valentin, Phoenix, AZ

ABOUT THE COVER by Abygael Pelger, Jacksonville, FL

“Metamorphosis” is completely open to interpretation, but for me it represents an evolution of life, natural and man-made. The woman expresses the abolishing of racial prejudices and the elimination of societal beauty standards. Of course, these are still topics that have yet to be completely absolved, but the human race has made great progress considering where we were only 60 years ago. This colorful lady’s mind flourishes with imagination, so much so that it cannot be contained within her skull. The nature-themed elements depict change and growth as well.

CONTENTS u Now yo it m can sub ur o y using ! phone

TEENS, GET PUBLISHED! Submit online at www.TeenInk.com

THE FINE PRINT • How to submit. All submissions of writing and artwork through our website, TeenInk.com, are considered for publication in print and online, and are also automatically entered into any relevant contests. We no longer accept submissions by mail or e-mail.

JANUARY 2017 | VOL. 28, NO. 5

4 Feedback 18-19 College Directory 21 Art Gallery

Nonfiction 3, 10-15 6-7

• Plagiarism. Teen Ink has a no-tolerance policy for plagiarism. We check the originality of all published work through WriteCheck. • Editing. For space and other reasons, we reserve the right to publish our edited version of your work without your prior approval. • Anonymity. If, due to the personal nature of a piece, you don’t want your name published online or in print, we will respect that request, but we must still have accurate name and address information for every submission. • Complimentary copy. Teens published in the magazine will receive a free copy of the issue containing their work. • Submitted work becomes the property of Teen Ink. By submitting your work to us, you are giving Teen Ink and its partners, affiliates, and licensees the non-exclusive right to publish your work in any format, including print, electronic, and online media. However, all individual contributors to Teen Ink retain the right to submit their work for non-exclusive publication elsewhere, and you have our permission to do so. Teen Ink may edit or abridge your work at its sole discretion. To prevent others from stealing your work, Teen Ink is copyrighted by The Young Authors Foundation Inc.

SUBSCRIBE & SUPPORT TEEN INK IN OUR 28TH YEAR!

8 16-17 20-25

SUMMER PROGRAMS

A guide to what to do this summer

Must we be so PC? • Give him a chance, America • Uniting two Americas • Why I speak like a man

POINTS OF VIEW

EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR TRAVEL & CULTURE

Nominations for our annual educator contest

Yucatán, Mexico • Child of Russian immigrants

Mom’s white wine • Confessions of a troublemaker • Knocking down my walls • I was a gypsy punk • The party crasher • To be a princess • My revolutionary rebirth • Watch me • Body language • The stupid idea • Where you left me MEMOIRS

26 27 28

SPORTS

29

HEALTH

Running to recovery • Weight room etiquette • Diving

ENVIRONMENT

Bugs as food • Intruders

Drop the ethnicity label • Broken links • Autism is not a tragedy

PRIDE & PREJUDICE

Addiction • Hearing loss • Puberty

Reviews 30

MOVIES

31 32

MUSIC

George Harrison • Fall Out Boy • Epica

BOOKS

Burial Rites • Finders Keepers • Ao Haru Ride

Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them • Doctor Strange • Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children

33-36 Fiction 37-46 Poetry

☐ $45 INDIVIDUAL SUBSCRIPTION One copy per month for 10 months (we don’t publish in July and August). Please enclose a check or credit card information.

☐ $99 EDUCATOR SPECIAL One copy per month for 10 months, plus three 30-copy boxes over the course of the school year.

☐ $155 CLASS BOX SET 30 copies of Teen Ink each month from now until June. Fill out this form and mail it to us, or subscribe quickly and securely at www.teenink.com/subscribe. Prices include shipping and handling. Purchase order # (if available): __________________

☐ MC ☐ VISA Card #_____________________________ Exp. _____ Subscriber name: ______________________________________________ School name (for Class Sets): ______________________________________

• • • • •

ON THE COVER The Summer Program Issue 60-plus programs – from the academic to the artistic – to ensure that your summer is anything but boring and unproductive. pages 2-3 & 9-15

Why We Should Eat Bugs

E-mail: __________________________________________________________

“In a country where one-third of the population is obese from eating fast food, junk food, and processed food, we need more affordable, natural food options. Protein-wise, eating a fried grasshopper is just like eating a chicken nugget.”

Phone: __________________________________________________________

“The Six-Legged Lunch,” page 27

Address: ☐ School ☐ Home ______________________________________ City: ____________________________ State: _______ ZIP: ______________

MAIL TO: TEEN INK • BOX 30 • NEWTON, MA 02461

WW/PP 01/17

Cover art by Abygael Pelger, Jacksonville, FL

points of view

Political Correctness

by Taylor Grey, Ambler, PA

T

The problem with situations like this is that they he phrase “political correctness” has become create the illusion of a “safe space” in which no one commonplace for the American public in the is ever challenged. In previous years, the attitude twenty-first century. Defined by Merriam toward potentially offensive speech was “What you Webster as “conforming to a belief that language said could be offensive to some people, but I respect and practices which could offend political sensibiliyour right to say it.” Now, the mentality is “Your ties (as in matters of sex or race) should be eliminatspeech offends me. I want it banned.” ed,” political correctness requires constant attention. Another example of the new PC mentality reWhether we’re simply talking to a friend or giving a garding avoiding offense and creating “safe spaces” speech, we must filter our words so they are respectcan be found on college campuses. For instance, ful and accurate – otherwise, the “PC Police” will at Yale, controversy arose after a residence hall bear down on us. administrator disagreed with a student group’s polite With the evolution of our society into a much request that no “culturally insensitive and unaware” more tolerant and accepting entity, political corHalloween costumes be worn; her dissent was in the rectness is more important than ever. The emphasis spirit of free expression. The problem placed on refraining from using slurs, with this situation, however, does not misgendering others, and making inlie in the debate between the student sensitive jokes signifies an extremeand the administrator. A request ly promising step – a step toward Who determines group for students to rethink their costume respect and tolerance for all. Some, what is offensive? choices is not the same as demanding but not many, opponents of political that certain costumes be banned. No, correctness still want to be able to the troubling part of the situation arose make off-color jokes and call others when the administrator was subseracial slurs, and this is obviously quently verbally attacked by some of the students. insensitive. Everyone deserves respect. However, One in particular screamed, “It is not about creating when political correctness moves away from ensuran intellectual space! It is not! Do you understand ing that everyone is respected and toward ensuring that? It is about creating a home here!” If that that nobody is ever offended, we begin to experience student didn’t want an intellectual space, then why a problem. This shift also begs the question, “Who did she attend Yale? I didn’t know that one of the determines what is offensive?” The answer is still country’s top universities could be mistaken for a ambiguous, but this idea of protecting the “right not $40,000 day care. to be offended” appears in news stories across the Further perpetuating this student’s claim that colcountry almost every day. lege should be a safe haven rather than an “intellecFor example, recently a fundraising dinner hosted tual space,” students across the country have rallied by the Connecticut Democratic Party was renamed around the concept of “trigger warnings.” Some after some deemed the original name offensive. The students are demanding warnings for almost anyfundraiser, formerly known as The Jefferson Jackson thing that could be upsetting in class. For instance, Bailey dinner, was stripped of the first two names at law schools, students have argued that rape law because of those presidents’ histories as slaveholdshould not be taught, since it has the potential to ers. Keeping this in mind, we arguably might as well be upsetting to students. Of course, in order to be rename our nation’s capital – George Washington a lawyer, one must know rape law: Harvard Law also owned slaves.

School Professor Jeannie Suk Gersen compares this phenomenon to “a medical student who is training to be a surgeon but who fears that he’ll become distressed if he sees or handles blood.” With the rise of trigger warnings come sweeping reforms in university speech codes. All across the country, under pressure from students seeking a “safe space,” universities have released lists of words and phrases deemed offensive, and the list for some schools is truly baffling. For example, the University of California system recently redesigned its speech code to condemn “offensive” statements such as “America is the land of opportunity” and “I believe the most qualified person should get the job,” even instructing its professors to refrain from using these in class. The basis for the condemnation of these statements is that they can be considered “microaggressions,” a term used to define any unintentionally discriminatory speech. This rise of the “safe space” is counterproductive. College is supposed to be a place where students are challenged to think differently. However, in this new society in which trigger warnings are expected and safe spaces advocated, students refuse to be challenged and fail to face ideas and concepts for fear of experiencing discomfort or anxiety. Without struggling with new ideas, their intellectual growth is stunted. As a result, when they finish college, they may be unprepared to handle the challenges of the real world. Because trigger warnings allow students to avoid certain topics, they don’t learn how to cope with their fear and anxiety. This political correctness revolution may seem far removed from us, but when many seniors step onto college campuses next fall, they’ll be right in the middle of the debate regarding safe spaces, trigger warnings, and offensive speech. With this in mind, I urge all students to face the cold, hard truth: Reality isn’t a safe space, and it doesn’t come with trigger warnings. ✦

Give Him a Chance

by Hannah Polak, Indianapolis, IN

F

Photo by Grace Tran, Portland, OR

6

Teen Ink •

J A N U A RY ’ 1 7

ter or worse, we will have at least four years of Donald ollowing one of the most unprecedented campaign seasons in U.S. history, Donald Trump’s Trump: change indeed. And that’s something America victory in the presidential election surprised can handle. Despite the memes and snide comments that are political scientists and the general public alike. Many have taken to social media to express their fear and circling social media, there are no concentration camps disappointment. Some Americans have already begun being set up. No nuclear missiles have been set off yet. to organize protests and vow to refuse to acknowledge This is America. We are a democracy. No one gets all the power, not even the president. And definitely not a Trump presidency. “I’m still with her” is currently trending on Twitter. Donald Trump. There are checks and As a proud third-party voter, I balances in place to prevent the wildwashed my hands of both Trump and eyed media’s “worst-case scenarios” America is built from happening. Hillary Clinton a while ago. Clinton In the United States we live by the was never someone I considered on change principles of freedom. Freedom of voting for. Not only do I disagree with her policies, but I find the idea speech. Freedom to assemble. If you think Trump represents hate, then of putting a criminal in office utterly spread love. If you think Trump has divided America, “deplorable,” to use her term. And although I agreed then be open to coming together again. But don’t be with some of Trump’s policies, I grew tired of trying ignorant enough to try and defy this presidency. This is to rationalize his erratic behavior and unsavory past, not a time for ignorance. This is not a time for fear. which haunted him throughout the election. In the spirit of keeping an open mind, I admit that I But this is not about my opinion any longer. The believe Hillary Clinton said it best in her concession election is over. Donald Trump has won. It’s time to speech: “Donald Trump is going to be our president. accept that. If you can’t stand the thought of living in We owe him an open mind and the chance to lead.” He a country where a former reality star is president, then may not be what you expected or wanted, but this is leave. We won’t miss you. America is built on change: what we got. Give Donald Trump a chance, America. ✦ We had eight years of Barack Obama, and now, for betCOMMENT

ON ANY ARTICLE AT

TEENINK.COM

I

live in California, a state of blue skies and blue political stances – a state where many people act like Republican is another word for racist. Sexist. Homophobic. Fanatically religious. Stupid. I live in California, where Hillary Clinton is good and Donald Trump is bad – the absolute worst candidate: an inexperienced, racist, misogynistic, ill-tempered, xenophobic, immature, bigoted rapist. The wrong choice. Simple. I live in California, where on November 8, Trump remained an old joke, still funny by 6 p.m. With each ticking hour, the nervous laughter abated. Confident spirits sunk into cynical stomachs. By 2 a.m., fantasy and reality had melded together as the new president, Donald J. Trump, gave his acceptance speech. I live in California, where everything stood still on the morning of November 9th. The sun blazed as an oppressive gloom filled my city. The disappointment was so thick I could taste it. Many chewed on

by Carrie Almir, Santa Monica, CA

I live in a bubble where no one was angry until the addictive political poison, making themselves Trump was elected. sick inside with frustration, anger, and confusion. As difficult as it is, I refuse to continue living this At school, the same peers I usually struggle to way, stuck in a mindset created by my environment. relate to shared my drooping facial expression, I don’t like Donald Trump as a politician, busitired eyes, and sluggish walk. Obnoxious teenagers nessman, or human being. Still, I refuse to believe morphed into cartoon children with rain clouds that everyone who voted for him is prejudiced and hovering above their heads. I watched confident uneducated. I refuse to believe that either side is students crumple, terrified; some were brought to right or wrong. tears. Many sat in their classes with stone faces and Today, there are two Americas. Each version of wide eyes. By second period, a protest had begun. this nation has an entirely different mindset, created There was no rationale for it. No teacher or principal by different facts, media influences, and beliefs could change the election results. Yet hundreds of about what is wrong with our country. Our nation is students were driven together by nothing but raw, divided because neither side will listen boiling emotion, which they released to the other. Trump supporters and in screams and cries. Even teachers, Clinton supporters are both blinded by figures of authority and sensibility, Everything anger; each side insists on remaining were in shock. Hardly any lessons stood still on ignorant about the plight of the other. were taught that day. campaign was driven by attacks I live in California, where few the morning of onThis character, not by the issues. Both people understand why anyone November 9th candidates are guilty of this. Now that would support Trump. We Donald Trump is the president-elect, thought Clinton was such the people are attacking each others’ a clear choice, given her character in the same way. experience and thorough plans to address Now it is more important than ever for us to come the issues facing our nation. What I failed together. We have to focus on the issues and fight for to realize is that because I live in Califorour rights. If you live in America, the state you live nia, I live in a bubble. in no longer matters. What matters is that we give I live in a bubble where Obamacare our new president the chance to work for our entire was a success. nation. We must communicate our opinions and I live in a bubble where Planned Parlisten to others, not hurl insults and incite violence. enthood taught my sex ed classes. Dear readers, it is up to each and every one of us I live in a bubble where jobs are not to promote unity. I cannot say “everything is going disappearing. to be fine,” because I don’t know if that’s true. All I live in a bubble where diversity I know is that we must promote what we stand for thrives. I have friends who are black, without creating more division. ✦ LGBTQ, Muslim, and illegal immigrants.

points of view

Uniting Two Americas

Photo by Kim Ngan Bui, Olympia, WA

Why I Speak Like a Man

by Anneke Roberts, Grand Rapids, MI

T

While this explanation would be relieving, the truth behind he German language failed me when it comes to the this gender difference is much darker. A popular 2014 Panword sorry. While there are words and phrases that contene ad offered an explanation: each useless “sorry” exists vey a similar meaning (entschuldigung means “excuse as an attempt to make women’s sentences less obtrusive in a me” or “pardon me,” and es tut mir leid literally translates to male-dominated world. “that causes me sorrow”), none quite capture the meaning of Just one conversation in the average American woman’s life the “sorry” Americans so often insert into speech. proves how true this is. Phrases that are seen as completely During my time as an exchange student in Germany, I came normal when used by men are seen as rude and pushy coming to the unfortunate realization that the lack of this five-letter from a woman. We regularly apologize for merely opening word would seriously affect my ability to communicate. our mouths, we adopt an overly polite, waWhether it was apologizing to the clueless tered-down way of speaking, and we constantly waiter who had messed up my order, or trying our power and intellect – all to make to slip in the word “sorry” before asking my American women downplay ourselves less threatening to men. teacher about the lesson plan for the next After weeks of stumbling through four-syllable day, I was constantly struggling to form basic are constantly German apologies, I finally dropped the word sentences due to this lexical gap. At one point, saying sorry altogether. I began to give clear descriptions of I even tried apologizing for not being able to what I wanted and state my opinions directly. You apologize. might say I learned to speak “like a man.” The Frustrated, I mentioned my problem to the reactions to this were immediate and eye-opening. Suddenly other American students, all of whom were male. Instead of people paid more attention to what I had to say, they were empathizing as I had expected, they met my complaint with more likely to agree with my opinions, and they began to treat blank stares: they couldn’t relate at all. me with newfound respect. For some strange reason, American women are constantly While there are certainly times when “sorry” can and saying sorry, often for things we aren’t even slightly responshould be used, its overuse by the female population needs to sible for. We coat clear opinions and logical statements with end if we ever want to see real gender equality. So, the next a thick layer of empty apologies to the point where the aim of time you catch yourself using a certain five-letter word, try reour sentence is lost. phrasing your sentence without it. The results might surprise But what makes this problem exclusive to women? Some you. ✦ speculate that women are inherently more polite than men.

FOLLOW

US ON

INSTAGRAM @TEEN.INK

Photo by Kaitlin O’Sullivan, Pelham Manor, NY

J A N U A RY ’ 1 7

• Teen Ink

7

educator of the year

Chinese • Arrowhead High School, Hartland, WI

Wei Yao

by Erika Lund, Hartland, WI

W

you need to put in the work. I can’t lie – hen I tell people that I plan to major in I’ve spent a few afternoons in detention Chinese, they are often impressed, conwishing I had done my homework. fused, and curious all at the same time. It However, if the whole class does do the usually goes like this: “Chinese! How on Earth did homework, we get a sticker. And once you pick that?” And my answer is simple: I was inwe get enough stickers, we earn a party, spired by my high school Chinese teacher, Mrs. Yao. or “pai dui!” That is why I am nominating this incredible woman I will never forget my trip to China to be a Teen Ink Educator of the Year. with Mrs. Yao. It was the most inMrs. Yao, or Laoshias, as her students call her, is credible experience of my life. Travel, not your average teacher. She is 5 feet (5' 3" with though, never goes completeher stylish heels) of pure passion for ly as planned. One night in her students. She is zany and outgoing, and everyone absolutely loves her. She Chinese class Shanghai, I slipped on the wet bathroom floor in the hotel. knows all about each of her students: feels like a As I fell, I grabbed the wall to what sports they play, what kind of mucatch myself, but there was a sic they like, and who’s dating whom. family nail sticking out, and I cut my hand badly. Every Monday she asks us how our One of my classmates got Mrs. Yao, while weekend was and what we did, but we another helped me stop the bleeding. have to answer in Chinese, of course. Mrs. Yao, along with a few hotel employees, There have been so many good times in her were soon at the door speaking so frantically in classroom. Once Mrs. Yao told us she wanted to Mandarin that my brain couldn’t process a word. be a comedian when she lived in China. She could Apparently, the employees were angry that I had have been; she is hilarious! She wants learning to bled on the towels and bed (China is very different be fun, so she incorporates singing and dancing into from the U.S.), but a furious Ms. Yao, like a mama lessons, pushing us outside our comfort zones. By bear defending her cubs, demanded to speak with the end of class, we are all smiling, laughing, and someone else. learning. After four years together, our Chinese class Another man arrived, and being the charming feels like a family. little lady that everyone loves, Mrs. Yao soon had Sometimes Mrs. Yao gives us tough love. If you the problem solved; she and the man were even don’t do her homework, you get a detention. Chilaughing – yes laughing – together. She came back nese is a difficult language, and in order to succeed,

The 26th Annual

Educator Year of the

Contest Do you have an outstanding teacher, coach, guidance counselor, librarian, or principal? 1) Tell us why your nominee is special. What has your educator done for your class, you, another student, or the community? Be specific. 2) Essays should be about 250 words. 3) Only middle school/junior high and high school educators are eligible. 4) Include your nominee’s first and last name, position or subject taught, and the school where he/she teaches. 5) Submit it online at www.TeenInk.com/Submit Winners will be announced in the Summer 2017 issue.

8

Photo by Lauren Field, Wilmington, MA

into the room where my eyes were red with tears, sat down, and said something I will never forget. “Don’t worry, I will always protect my students.” With a few layers of bandages, I was able to enjoy the rest of the trip and create countless memories. I even got a scar to take home as a souvenir. Mrs. Yao is so much more than an ordinary teacher. She saw my passion for learning Chinese and always pushed me to work harder. She is tough at times, but only because she wants me to reach my full potential. She is the person I have to thank for helping me figure out what I want to do in college, and she is my educator of the year. My college Chinese professor is going to have some pretty big shoes – I mean high heels – to fill to live up to Mrs. Yao. ✦

English • Wayland Middle School, Wayland, MA

Cori O’Keefe

by Julia Callini, Wayland, MA

W

example, in Act 2, Scene 2, Romeo asks Friar Lawrence to e’re sitting down for lunch – crackers, hummus, marry him and Juliet that day. Friar Lawrence is shocked and iced tea for her, while I have a cup of yogurt that Romeo is awake so early; even four hundred years ago and leftover pasta. I used to come here to escape teenagers liked to sleep late. Ms. O’Keefe shows us that if the anxiety I felt in the noisy cafeteria, where food flies, you can get past the fancy language, Romeo and Juliet is not kids yell, and I felt as if I was being judged. But now I come unlike our own lives today. here instead, because I have made a friend: my English She always wants her students to succeed, and she does teacher, Ms. O’Keefe. that by making sure everyone learns. Ms. O’Keefe doesn’t When I ask if I can join her in her classroom for lunch, teach the class as a whole; she teaches each individual. she says yes and begins to talk about the book we’re readWhen we work on a writing project, whether it be fiction, ing, Bruiser by Neal Shusterman, immediately engaging nonfiction, poetry, or prose, she is always there to help. me in a conversation about the characters. By the time the While the rest of us write our drafts, she meets with each bell rings, my head is swimming, nearly bursting with ideas student individually, helping us edit our stories, about the characters, their motivations, and and never gives up on us, even if we give up on underlying messages. I thank Ms. O’Keefe and head out the door, hoping to learn half as much English class ourselves. I was having trouble coming up with a in science as I did during that lunch period. English class is always the highlight of my is the highlight compelling thesis for my op-ed essay, “Homeschooling Is the New Harvard.” Ms. O’Keefe day. Whether we are writing memoirs, studyof my day spent twenty minutes with me in class and ing a text, or writing essays, I can always count stayed an hour after school to help me write on Ms. O’Keefe to make it a good class. She a compelling argument. She cares about her constantly has a smile on her face, even if it’s a students and wants us to do well. cold, rainy day and all of her other classes have been rowdy, Ms. O’Keefe is so much more than just a teacher. She has and she has a headache. She wipes the slate clean and starts become my friend. She understands that middle school is teaching with excitement, making sure our English class is tough, friends can be mean, and work can be stressful, and as good as it can be. she is always there to listen. Whether I talk about books, Ms. O’Keefe always has an exciting lesson planned writing, school, friends, or home, she always listens, gives – teaching with enthusiasm is her specialty. When she advice, and is there to support me. announced we would be studying William Shakespeare’s I couldn’t ask for a better teacher. I am so grateful I have Romeo and Juliet, some students responded with eye rolls had the chance to take her English class. She has pushed and groans. But fear not! For Ms. O’Keefe had it covered. and mentored me, igniting the flame for my love of the litShe made this classic relatable; even though it was written erary arts. Ms. O’Keefe is an amazing English teacher, and over four hundred years ago and the characters speak early anyone would be lucky to have her as a teacher or a friend. I modern English in poetry, she made them seem like us. am so glad I have her as both. ✦ She helps us relate what we read to our own life. For

Deadline: May 1, 2017

Teen Ink •

J A N U A RY ’ 1 7

COMMENT

ON ANY ARTICLE AT

TEENINK.COM

AlfredUniversity

Creative Writing S U M M E R I N S T I T U T E S These exciting institutes provide an introduction to four of the most important and powerful genres: poetry, short fiction, creative non-fiction and drama. High school students from all over the country come to Alfred University each summer to participate in these fascinating programs. Experience academic excellence and the joy of discovery at Alfred University this summer! Office of Summer Programs Alfred University Alfred, NY 14802 Phone: 607-871-2612 Email: [email protected] www.alfred.edu/summer

BARD COLLEGE at SIMON’S ROCK

YOUNG WRITERS WORKSHOP July  – July , 201

Three Weeks of Writing, Thinking, Imagining

Acadia Institute of Oceanography Excited about the ocean? AIO offers a unique hands-on science program for students (ages 10-18) who want to learn about the ocean while enjoying the majestic coast of Downeast Maine. 1& 2 week sessions. All marine environments. Rec. activities. Staffed by professional educators. College credit available.

800 - 375 - 0058 register online at www.acadiainstitute.com

42 Years of Summer Programming

Art on the Farm

Painting, Drawing & Photography Ireland: Summer 2017

“How can I know what I think till I see what I say?” -- E.M. Forster

www.simons-rock.edu/young-writers

1 800 677 0628 www.cowhousestudios.com

Be part of the country’s most influential and cutting-edge art and design school this summer. Intensive two- and four-week art, design, and writing classes for high school students. Register at saic.edu/ecpsi

Check out Teen Ink’s

Online Summer Guide Browse over 150 programs

TeenInk.com/Summer J A N U A RY ’ 1 6

• Teen Ink

9

summer program reviews 10

TRAVEL

Travel for Teens Europe: Imagine sitting at a quaint Parisian bakery to our interests. and ordering a pastry, or completing a meaningful I began my journey in Berlin, where we visited the community service project while overlooking the Reichstag, explored old East Germany, biked across Mediterranean Sea in Italy. Are you searching for the Tempelhof Airport, and ate lots of schnitzel something to do next summer? Based in Pennsyland kebab. Our group even got to take a tour of the vania, Travel for Teens has summer underground war bunkers of Berlin. travel opportunities around the globe Students left Germany with a blend for students – ranging from touring of modern culture and historic insight. Offers over the Alps, learning Spanish in Costa In France, our group boated on 50 programs in Rica, to volunteering in Fiji. Travel for the Seine River, climbed the Eiffel 30 countries Teens (TFT) offers over 50 programs Tower, ventured around the Palace in 30 countries. of Versailles, visited a multitude of Last summer I went on the Bermuseums, and of course ate lots of lin, Paris, and London TFT trip with 12 students baguettes and cheese. I made many new friends on from across the country. The counselor-to-student the trip and stay in touch with them to this day. ratio was excellent, as our trip had three energetic We took the Eurostar Bullet Train from France to counselors from Australia, France, and the U.S. TFT England. There, we rode the London Eye, visited is committed to student safety. They were very recep- Winston Churchill’s World War II bunker, saw the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace, and tive to attendees’ requests, and tailored the activities

experienced British nightlife on the West End as we took in the play “Miss Saigon.” On our last night, Travel for Teens reserved the top floor of Chef Gordon Ramsay’s restaurant, York & Albany, for a private dinner. We spent a magical night reminiscing about our amazing adventures together. TFT teaches students to be “travelers instead of tourists.” Students see a different side of foreign cities, taking local transit and ordering food while speaking the local language. I highly recommend Travel for Teens if you are looking for an educationally enriching tour with cultural adventures. Travel for Teens connects students to the world and broadens their horizons. Travel this summer with TFT and experience their energy, curiosity, and commitment to global citizenship. ) by Katie Curran, Pocasset, MA

WRITING

ACADEMICS

Sewanee Young Writers’ Conference

SHAD Program

hikes to secret swimming holes on the Sewanee, TN: I remember riding in side of the mountain, hiking on hidden the shuttle bus from the airport up the trails in the dead of night in the rain winding mountains roads. Little did I with a single flashlight, and stopping know that this would become one of at unique shops and restaurants. All of my favorite places on earth – where I spent the best summer of my life at the these inspired our writing during the conference. Sewanee Young Writers’ Conference. The freedom to explore and experiThe program lasts for two weeks, ence was one of the best parts of my with workshops every day except two weeks at the University of the Sundays. The university staff orgaSouth. I learned what I was good at, nize the conference, and professional what I needed to work on, and what writers conduct the workshops, with I absolutely couldn’t pull off in my 10 students per workshop. writing. Hearing what my peers wrote The environment is beautiful. We was educational too; I learned as much have a couple of hours to ourselves from them as I did from each day to write, exthe instructors. plore, or hang out with My experience at the other young writers. The Freedom to Sewanee Young Writers’ workload is manageable explore and Conference is something and unique to each teacher. experience I will treasure forever. I I only had a few stories to made life-long friends, read each night and the ocmet incredible mentors casional writing exercise. and teachers, and went on adventures Most of the writing took place during workshop, which was my favorite part I couldn’t have had anywhere else. The young writers I had the privilege of the day. The first week was spent of spending two weeks with were the working on a project, depending on best people I’ve ever met. They were your genre – fiction, nonfiction, pofunny, sweet, honest, and cool teenetry, or playwriting – and the second agers from every part of the world. I week was spent with critiques and continue to workshop my writing and readings. Skype with them because we have a There were guest speakers throughbond like no other. out who discussed their work, writing If you want to become a better tips, and more. And there were lecwriter and student, and meet great tures by professors and readings from people in a beautiful place, this conall the workshop teachers. These were what the staff liked to call “mandatory ference is for you. I can’t say enough good things about the university and fun,” but I think all the young writers the staff. I recommend this program enjoyed them anyway. highly. ) The campus was gorgeous. Groups of us went on frequent adventures, like by Tennessee Hill, Dickinson, TX

Teen Ink •

J A N U A RY ’ 1 7

Canada: I roll over and slap the blaring alarm. It’s 5 a.m., and I have to hurry and wake up. There’s a long list of items I have to pack, chores to complete, and confirmations needing to be double checked. And I’m due at the airport in less than two hours. Seven hours later, I am sitting in a van with two other girls. We are quiet and nervous as the driver speeds toward the university. When we arrive, only one of us speaks, offering to help carry two strangers’ luggage to the door. We all take deep breaths and make our entrance into our new home. For the next four weeks, we are SHADS. SHAD is a summer program for exceptional students in grades 10 through 12 hosted at university campuses all over Canada. Each year, approximately 50 students from Canada and around the world are chosen to attend each campus. They learn about STEM topics and tie their new science, technology, engineering, and math knowledge together with a business project, competing against other teams on campus and across Canada. They call it “bootcamp for your brain.” But SHAD is so much more than a month in the classroom. It’s developing your athletic skills, following your passions, and making lasting bonds. Have you “Bootcamp for ever gone camping? Well, you’d better get ready to start. Do you like molecular biology? your brain” There’s a week-long seminar on that. Do you want to make friends? The people you’ll meet become like another family. The experience comes at a price: $4,500 for Canadian students and $8,000 for international students. But there’s a scholarship program and a wide range of options to help with the cost, so you don’t have to come from a wealthy family to attend. Leadership, good grades, and creativity are valued. Attending SHAD was the most life-changing experience I’ve ever had. It completely altered who I am and how I see the world. It motivated me to make the change that I had always dreamed of. SHAD creates a new generation of change-makers, idea generators, and passionate creators. The program taught me what it is like to have good friends, be intrinsically motivated, and be independent. I learned how to do my own laundry, camp in the wilderness, and be my own person. If you’re looking for a good introduction to Canadian universities and want to have the best time of your life, I highly recommend SHAD. The academics aren’t for the faint of heart, however it is a huge bonus for International Baccalaureate students and those pursuing university studies. Take the initiative to change your life. I’m so glad that I did. ) by Kirsten Dalley, Canada

REVIEW YOUR

FAVORITE SUMMER PROGRAM

AT

TEENINK.COM

Did you find your summer program through Teen Ink? Please let us know [email protected]

summer program reviews

JOURNALISM

Indiana University High School Journalism Institute picture can tell a thousand words just as vividly as a Bloomington, IN: For 70 years, Indiana University thousand words can create a picture. has been home to the High School Journalism InstiThe variety of classes offered at HSJI – from basic tute, a summer program for student writers, photogreporting to a course specifically for editors-in-chief, raphers, and yearbook staff members. Though I have resulted in a group ranging in experience. Howevonly been a camper at HSJI for two summers, I can er, skill differences was not a social divider. Each honestly say that each two-week period I spent there classroom, as well as dorm floor, exuded felt like a lifetime, due to the countless a familial atmosphere in a matter of days, memories I made and the knowledge I absorbed. An amateur with instructors and dorm counselors never hesitating to extend a helping hand. The summer of 2012, I attended HSJI journalist’s My graphic design instructor taught me as a rising sophomore with not the slightheaven more in a week-long session than some est idea what to expect. It was not only of my teachers taught me in a semester, my first summer enrichment program but while my Converged Newsroom course my first time traveling outside of Florida was a hands-on learning mechanism that worked without my parents. If it wasn’t for a loving push from my mother and the reassurance of a close friend wonders on my reporting skills. Night games and activities, including capture the flag and karaoke, accompanying me as my roommate, I would never were provided by the counselors to promote camper have registered. I couldn’t be more glad that I did. Arriving in the small town of Bloomington, Indiinteraction and foster fun beyond journalism. By the ana, I found an amateur journalist’s heaven. A place end of the program, friends, counselors, and instrucwhere 300 teens share a mutual passion for the media, tors could be categorized under the single title of my second family. where being on one’s school newspaper or yearbook Immediately when I got back to Florida, I was staff means recognition rather than ridicule, where a

by Angeli Rodriguez, Pembroke Pines, FL

ACADEMICS

ACADEMICS

Barnard College Liberal Arts Intensive

Exeter Summer Program

and that flame grew throughout the New York City: As the rain poured week. During the class we went on a down, I ran through Times Square walking tour of Harlem, an opportuniwith a new friend by my side. I couldn’t ask for anything better. It was ty I hadn’t expected, discussed modernist topics, and visited the Museum the final night of my one-week proof Modern Art. gram at Barnard, and I was During free time we heartbroken it was over. were allowed to do as we I spent a week studying The highlight pleased, with Manhattan as modernism as part of the of my summer our playground. I quickly Liberal Arts Intensive at made friends with a girl Barnard College in New from across the country, York City. Other programs and we explored the city together. We include the four-week Summer in watched a Broadway show, shopped, the City Program, a Summer Science saw a movie in Times Square, and ate Seminar, and a dance program. All of at Tom’s restaurant in Morningside these give students the opportunity to Heights. live on campus and preview college From the learning to the friendlife. Before the program even started, we ships to the college experience, the were asked to read the book ManhatBarnard Liberal Arts Intensive was a tan Transfer. This sparked my interest, marvelous week and the highlight of my summer. One very valuable skill I gained is the ability to write quickly. Essays that a year ago would have been arduous are now a breeze. I would highly recommend this program to all students going into their junior or senior years. If I wasn’t graduating I would love to participate again. The friendships I formed are valuable. While we are now far apart and time has passed, these friendships, lessons, and memories will last forever. ) Photo by Evelyn Abramowitz, Bay Harbor Islands, FL

12

filled with nostalgia, as if my dorm at Teter Hall was my true home. Needless to say, all I wanted to do was return to HSJI, to continue building my strengths in the career field I hope to enter. This past July, that’s exactly what I did. It was as if I had never left. My counselors greeted me with the same open arms I had been wrapped in a year before. My instructors not only remembered me but trusted me with the position of editor of our week-two publication. Some of my friends did not return, but I quickly made new ones. After all, I was at HSJI, where connecting with people my age who share my interests is easy. While last year I focused on graphic design, this summer I dedicated my session to online journalism, building two websites and growing immensely in the areas of videography and audio storytelling. I’m not certain what I’ll be interested in learning by this time next year, my last summer of high school, but I know without a doubt I’ll attend HSJI again. I hope to meet some of you fellow writers and photographers there. )

Teen Ink •

J A N U A RY ’ 1 7

by Angela Bentley, Sequim, WA

Exeter, NH: Last summer I attended Exeter Summer School at Phillips Exeter Academy, a program for teens who wish to broaden their horizons in terms of education and culture. My mother attended when she was my age and enjoyed it. My time at Exeter changed my perception of the world and greatly exceeded my expectations. I attend a large public school in a small town that is mostly white. Although my background includes a mixture of islander and African – my father was born and raised in Ghana – my views of the world were constricted and skewed by the homogeneous environment I live in. At Exeter, I discovered a wide variety of cultures and people: Native Americans from reservations, Italians, Greeks, Zimbabweans, Germans, Brazilians, and Saudi Arabians. I had never been anywhere with so many cultures, and they were all my friends. Not once was anyone subject to hatred for their ethnic background or religion, and I can truly say I was just not used to that kind of thinking – the kind that welcomes people of all backgrounds without a second thought. This accepting environment made Exeter a I discovered great place to be. At Exeter, Harkness is the learning method where a wide variety students discuss the material and ask each other of cultures questions, while the teacher sits back and listens. This type of Socratic seminar helped me process and and people store information. I took courses including criminal justice, genetic engineering, and neuropsychology. I never expected to retain so much knowledge – from research on the pGLO gene in jellyfish to facts about Edward Snowden and the Patriot Act. I learned this information over nine months ago, so the Harkness method was very effective. With the help of a very accepting environment at Exeter, I was able to step out of my comfort zone. Among the many activities the program offered, the one-act plays drew my interest. When I told the director I wasn’t sure acting was for me, he said “try anyway.” In my town most people would say, “then go do something else worthwhile.” Here I was challenged with the task of competing for a spot. “Bite Me” was absolutely one of the best experiences I have ever had in terms of trying something new. The production’s success and praise encouraged me to take on more new challenges. With its diversity and unforgettable learning experiences, I rate Exeter 10/10. I would recommend it to anyone wanting to explore other cultures and learn something new about themselves and the world. My personality and views have changed since Exeter, and I will forever be grateful for that eightweek experience. ) by Nurah Koney, Trinity, FL

REVIEW YOUR

FAVORITE SUMMER PROGRAM

AT

TEENINK.COM

MAKE NEW FRIENDS Innovative high school summer abroad.

$250 O APP FF LY JAN BY 13

www.experiment.org 1.800.345.2929 ExperimentAbroad

summer program spotlight

YPI Summer Camp

F

deserve boundless encouragement as well ounded in 1981 and housed at the Suffas compassionate critical attention. At YPI, ield Academy in Suffield, Connecticut, “There are no can’ts and no won’ts.” YPI, Inc. (formerly the Young People’s YPI creates a community of respect and Institute) is a two-week-long co-educational responsibility for young people. For those residential summer camp for the creative whose talents in the visual and performing arts. YPI exists to create a safe and inspiraarts set them apart in their school systems, tional environment where children of diverse YPI provides a home base by meeting every backgrounds and skill levels can feel free to year. Creative expression is the ultimate goal. create, explore, grow, and share their talents YPI provides access to under the thoughtful professional artists who guidance of profession“Goods and Bads” have been a may help guide their caal artists and caring part of YPI since 1981. We ask campreers as the young people staff. YPI seeks to proers at the end of the day to briefly mature. These master duce an environment of write one thing good and one thing teachers share both their cooperative learning for not so good (bad) on a small piece of talent and their wisdom. young people. paper and hand them in YPI celebrates young YPI encourages and anonymously. people’s uniqueness as supports artistic growth We find the time during the day to artists and as adolescents. in young people. Stugo through them and share some at When not being chaldents are challenged to Town Meeting; this gives campers lenged in their classes, produce works of art a chance to reflect on the day and students participate in at a high level in their share some ideas. structured recreation workshops. Led by activities conducted artists working in their by trained counselors chosen fields, young every afternoon. Evening activities include people explore poetry, short story, studio culturally stimulating art, 3D design, photography, acting, musical performances by local artists, as well as theater, song writing, dance and movement. age-appropriate events that promote commuThe learning process is enhanced by associanication and social development. tions with comparably talented peers from all If you’d like more information about camp walks of life who may have vastly or are interested in attending this year, email different experiences to share both inside and us, call us, or request a brochure. We look outside the classroom. YPI promotes the forward to meeting you! ✦ belief that everything produced is a “work in progress.” These products of creativity

“YPI

means a lot to me. It has not only changed me, but my life.” – Julie

Y

PI enveloped me in acceptance that I had never experienced in school. As a part of the dance program, I was encouraged to try my hand at choreography, and although I was not entirely brilliant, YPI was a place where I felt safe taking risks. “What I noticed most of all was how everyone was always singing. The music told stories; it brought everyone together, erased the boundaries between us, and made us one. I was moved by the music and the stories it told, and while I was once too shy, I found myself starting to sing along. In two weeks, YPI did a better job restoring my confidence than any amount of therapy could ever provide and blessed me with the opportunity to turn my high school experience around.” – Eliza

“Y

PI has done so much for me; it has given me friends, memories, inspiration, opportunities, a place to create. YPI is a place where I feel like I can really jump out of my comfort zone and take a risk. Everyone is so supportive of each other and on Friday at We Jazz, when everyone shows what they’ve created over the past week, I am in awe of how talented these people are, and what they can pull out from under their sleeve. “It’s amazing how two weeks can not only make your summer, but permanently impact your life, and really touch your heart.” – Tessa

“I

f I chose only one thing that I learned while at YPI, I would say that it’s to step out of your comfort zone every once in a while. When you step away from what you’re comfortable with, you meet people and have experiences that you would never have had. Because of YPI, I’ve been able to share these experiences with people I never would have met and it’s opened an entirely new world to me.” – Jessie

Contact: Jeff Ostroff 860-918-3155 • [email protected]

14

Teen Ink •

J A N U A RY ’ 1 7

REVIEW YOUR

FAVORITE SUMMER PROGRAM

AT

TEENINK.COM

SUMMER PROGRAM REVIEWS A sampling of reviews – unsolicited, heartfelt, and real – from TeenInk.com

AIDemocracy Global Scholar

EXPLO: Exploration Summer Programs

My daughter attended Global Scholar, and had a wonderful experience. She met so many fascinating speakers, and really gained a firm understanding of the global issues facing us all. She now “gets” current events, and I see her applying this knowledge to her studies. The program also helped build her confidence as a young woman who has the power to speak out about issues she cares about. She was particularly fond of the public speaking training, and the visit to Capitol Hill. We highly recommend the program to other families with motivated high schoolaged children who want to build both their understanding of issues and their leadership skills. Linda Showalter (parent)

My first experience at Explo was a marvelous adventure since I had never attended a sleepaway camp before. It was exciting learning about interesting topics like forensic science and off-road vehicle design. I loved how so many people got along with their peers, and I made a lot of new friends from all around the world. I plan to attend next year’s Explo camp and expect an even better experience. Explo is a great place for young people to make friends and explore topics of study that don’t occur in their every day lives. Matt S.

Bard College at Simon’s Rock Young Writers Workshop My time at Simon’s Rock was, without a doubt, my best and most memorable high school experience thus far. What I learned about myself as a writer, along with the people I met there, truly made an impact on my life. I left Simon’s Rock with a much broader understanding of what it means to be a writer. It’s a wonderful feeling knowing that you’re a part of such a special, talented community of young writers who are just as passionate about language and expression as you are. If you truly love writing, Simon’s Rock is by far the best place to be. I promise you won’t regret it. Madison W.

Ocean Studies at Acadia Institute of Oceanography The advanced session at Acadia Institute of Oceanography was a great experience! I learned a lot and had tons of fun. The program is really what you make of it; you can focus on learning or spend more time relaxing, depending on what you are looking for. Linnea Laux

VISIONS Service Adventures VISIONS is a fun, easy way to enjoy your summer while impacting the world. This summer I attended the Cambodian program, and I’m so glad I did. It was truly amazing to be incorporated into the Cambodian lifestyle and culture. The people are happy, generous, and greedy for knowledge. While, teaching summer school classes at a school in Battambang, I discovered first hand how smart and willing to learn these children were. Working projects may be scary at first, but don’t worry if you have never cemented anything in your life. Participants, staff, and community members are always willing to teach you jobs. Soon enough working becomes fun, and you forget about the sweat and sun. VISIONS allowed me to meet people from all across the globe, which is something I will always cherish. This past summer I did something meaningful, and I encourage you to try it too. Sierra Trevino

American Leadership Greatest trip I’ve ever been on. Changed my life and really opened my eyes to all the different cultures and opportunities outside the U.S. The other students were awesome, and Charlie, Julie, and Mark were great guides that put together an amazing program. This trip sparked an interest in traveling for me, and I can’t wait to go back! Carmen Dello Iacono

Buck’s Rock Performing and Creative Arts Camp

ActionQuest

I honestly don’t know where to begin. There’s too much to say about Buck’s Rock. I’ll be going into my fifth consecutive summer this year, and am anticipating more to come. The people at Buck’s Rock are like no others you’ll ever meet, the opportunities are limitless (where else can a 10-year-old blow glass, for example?), and everything is just fantastic. I strongly encourage anyone to visit and take a tour. I promise that you’ll be sold. Greg Edelston

I cannot say enough about ActionQuest. My son Chadd has attended many camps in his life but AQ has truly exceeded our expectations. Attending ActionQuest helped Chadd grow and discover what he wants to do with his future. The staff are outstanding role models for young adults. Chadd has also met the greatest friends. If you are thinking about a camp of this type for your child, don’t hesitate. You will be 100% happy you did. Dana Pandit (parent)

REVIEW YOUR

FAVORITE SUMMER PROGRAM

AT

TEENINK.COM

GIV Engineering Institute at the University of Vermont Participating in the Global Challenge Award was the most awesome experience ever. From figuring out what we wanted to work on, to writing business plans and technical descriptions, to securing a top position in the overall rankings – it was great! I worked with three other people (two of whom were from the U.S.), so we used Skype to a great extent. We were invited to spend a week at the Governor’s Institute of Vermont. Absolutely amazing and very informative. With wonderful teachers I had a superb week doing the most fun stuff and learning so much from it. An absolute once in a lifetime experience, with hands-on learning, and team work. Unforgettable experience! Priyanka Desirazu

Deer Hill Expeditions I have spent four summers with Deer Hill Expeditions, and I cannot imagine myself today without these life-changing experiences. Deer Hill teaches the value of wilderness, cultural exchange, and service, while still leaving plenty of room for self discovery. The leaders are knowledgeable and committed to the welfare of participants. DHE is fun and challenging, and its traditions nourish friendship and community. Allison Dobscha

Juniper Institute for Young Writers at UMASS I attended this program last year, and it was beyond what I could have hoped for. I met kids from all over the country, in fact, most were not from New England. The workshops were professional and educational. I took poetry, which met twice a day. It was way beyond standard high school level, and we were often given homework assignments, which dedicated students would stay up late to finish. The readings every night were amazing and inspiring. This program, which I will be attending again this summer, is best for those who love writing and are willing to put time into it while meeting others who enjoy it too. Rachel Dragos

Global Leadership Adventures I traveled to Ghana this summer with Global Leadership Adventures, and it was literally the best three weeks of my life. You never feel unsafe, uncared for, or out of place. Between your mentors, fellow students, and in-country directors, you form a dysfunctional family but know you can talk to anyone about anything.

Global Leadership Adventures gives you the perfect taste of a new culture and lets you try new things – from swimming under a waterfall to teaching a class full of rambunctious children, building bricks, and visiting orphanages for hugs. I encourage anyone looking for a life-changing experience to check out Global Leadership Adventures, and have fun! Grey Gondella

Center for Creative Youth I can’t say enough about this program and what it did for me as a writer. CCY provided a safe space for me to try new things and grow, as a teenager and a young artist. The supportive environment helped me find new confidence, and my wonderful teachers and classmates encouraged me to take chances and taught me lessons that I’m still drawing from. If you’re interested in the arts, I’d urge you to consider the program; it really can be a life-changing experience. Fletcher Wortmann

Augustana Summer Academy I attended the Human Cadaver program and the Harry Potter 7 Part II program, and they were both wonderful! The human cadaver program offered a unique experience that the normal high school student would never receive, and it prompted me to look into that field. I would definitely go again, but this year I’m off to college. The Harry Potter camp was great (though a much smaller group), and I made friendships with fellow Potterheads. It was awesome. Mimi

California College of the Arts Pre-College Program I attended this program since I was interested in animation. My professor was an animator at Disney for 18 years. The program was interesting, intense and fulfilling. I learn a lot about animation. I also made a lot of friends. Jesse Wang

Maine Media Workshops I was at Maine Media this summer and loved it! I started off knowing pretty much nothing except how to hold the camera. I took Beginner Young Digital Photography with Jay Gould and then Advanced Young Digital Photography with Jan Rosenbaum. They were both amazing teachers from whom I learned a lot. I would recommend this program for anyone who wants to learn or practice their photography. Naomi C.

J A N U A RY ’ 1 7

• Teen Ink

15

travel & culture 16

Fading Suns

by James Chang, Riverside, CT

I

don’t know what I’m doing here, on a bus for the The tree is strange, as if it has past three hours, heading into a history lesson. been twisted from hundreds The woman in front of me has fallen asleep with of thin saplings, the trunks her seat reclined fully, while the children behind bonding together over the cenme kick my seat with squeals of laughter. Although turies, interlocking to create I didn’t come here for the sun, where is the beach this new entity. I longed for back in New York? I definitely didn’t Erik points toward its leafy come here for the mosquitoes, incessant creatures crown. “The falling of leaves brushing against my face. Yet still, where is the symbolizes death.” As if reall-inclusive room service? The go-kart track? The sponding to some force in his snorkeling pool? During final exams, I certainly words, a few leaves pirouette hadn’t daydreamed of spending my summer vacathrough the air. “Yet even tion staring at plants! when the leaves touch the As the bus jolts along the beaten road, a rerun of ground and decompose, their an old thriller drones overhead, competing with the nutrients are absorbed by the chatter of tourists. I bundle up my jacket and stuff it roots, then travel to the top of under my head. Somehow, I seem to be lacking the the tree, where the process beenthusiasm of everyone else. gins anew. For many, death is Photo by Arielle Kolodzinski, Irvington, NY “Hola, todos escuchan por favor.” (“Everyone a waste of life, but we Mayans listen up please.”) Erik, our tour guide, is a large believe that death completes The pyramid rises step by step, flat square block man whose wavy black hair and nose reflect his nalife; we believe that every upon flat square block, each smaller than the last. tive Mayan heritage. His voice rasps individual completes the whole.” On all sides, elaborate stone staircases rise toward through the bus’s speakers. We walk along the path. The sun its zenith, reaching for the flaming sun overhead. Too bored for words, I look out the beats down. Our group is silent. I am Erik walks to one of the pyramid’s faces. Like a window and focus on what is ahead. confused by Erik’s words. How does Here, in the string of obedient schoolchildren, we follow. I catch Dappled sunlight dances across single thing complete us all? He Yucatán forest, any a glimpse of the old man draining yet another water the nearly transparent leaves of the motions for us to stop. We stand in bottle. Erik stands straight, facing the pyramid’s Yucatán forest. Under the intense sun, serenity prevails bewildered silence. front. He turns off his mike, and the deep tones of the green foliage glows, flashing past But then, just as I tune my senses his voice reverberate off the pyramid’s stone blocks. our bus in streaks of soft yellow and to the forest …. Ba-boom. Ba-boom. “Come closer. Please, sit,” he beckons, and we do. harsh white. Sunlight slips through Ba-boom. A deep rumble reverberates Slowly, measuring out his words, he begins to speak. openings in the canopy, and golden shadows stretch from the ground. A steady thump, a heartbeat. “Chichen Itza was the heart of the great Mayan over the moss blanketing the forest floor. Every inch My feet move toward the sound of a drum. Knowcivilization. Built around 600 A.D., it was their blossoms with light. In the forest, things take on a ing that there is always more than meets the eye in capital city. While other civilizations were just benew perspective. The scorching daylight, unwelthe Yucatán, I carefully survey the area and spot a ginning, the Mayan Empire had already reached its come on the streets of Cancun, is embraced here. vendor playing a pair of stained wooden bongos. His peak of power and influence. It was one of the most The bus rumbles into the heart of the forest, calloused hands strike the drums rapidly, as if trying successful indigenous societies on Earth. revealing gnarly trees, deeply rooted in the jungle to keep up with his own beat, yet … the ba-boom “Experts attributed our success to the geography, floor. Down below, shoots of grass push through rich plays on steady and slow. His arms maintain their to our economy, and even to our gods; but the real brown soil in search of sun. All things in this forest motion, his fingers tapping out an intricate rhythm, reason is much simpler.” are interdependent. Even mankind’s crude roadway but the notes in between the heartbeat are swallowed Erik’s eyes furrow in concentration, recalling the plays a role, directing rainwater into the soil. by the soil, feeding the forest. ways of a wiser time. As we travel along the desolate road, only the forAs I reluctantly rejoin our group, I can still feel “We thrived because every individual contributest keeps us company. I think of the pulse that runs the beat in my pulse. We enter a grassy field. There ed to the whole. We succeeded because each of us through New York City, the seductive beat of city are no covered tourist stands here, not a sliver of strove to give as much as we could to the group. life. Here, in the Yucatán forest, serenity prevails. shade. We are completely exposed to the scorching We completed our whole, and in return, our whole The rustling of branches replaces the honking of sun. Even with sunglasses, I must squint to see. completed us. horns. The scurrying of animals substitutes for the Everything is a brilliant, brilliant yellow white. “Notice the pyramid behind us points to the sun, chatter of smart phones. The towering trees stand in Our tour guide brings us to a vast stone arena. the force unifying us all. From the four corners of lieu of foreboding skyscrapers. “This is the site of the first organized sport, the the Earth, we look up and feel the warmth of comAs I exit the bus, I am smacked by the sunlight. Mayan Ball Game,” he begins. “Hitting a five-pound munity. It sustains and strengthens us. We rely on The world around me is burning. I fumble to put on ball with only their hips, players on both teams tried one another. We are like the Yucatán that my sunglasses. Our group has gathered near a sign to get it through stone hoops seven surrounds us, the jungle that is created that reads “Chichen Itza.” There’s a long flight of meters off the ground. What’s amazing by its component parts. Together, we find stairs to the gate. Beside me, an old man struggles about this game, however, isn’t the “Every meaning, purpose, life.” to climb the steps with his heavy backpack. His face difficulty. It’s that the captain of the individual He points to the top of the pyramid glistens with determination. At the halfway point, he winning team was sacrificed. Although behind us. Our lesson is not over. pauses and guzzles an entire bottle of water. these athletes enjoyed the game, their completes “That was where the Mayans were When we finally get through admissions, I willingness to die for their fellow man sacrificed to the god Kukulcan. It all imagined we would head to the first tourist spot, but represents the Mayan people.” the whole” happened here, under the relentless yet before we walk even a few yards, Erik stops. I look I walk along the stone walls, running vitalizing sun. Kings spilled their blood around, confused. Other groups keep going, laughmy fingers over ancient carvings, still for peasants. Warriors knelt down to ciing and taking carefree photos. From what I can remarkably intact. The solemn stone faces of the vilians. This is where the team captain was led to his tell, there isn’t anything significant here. A chain of players of this deadly game stare at me with unmovdeath. Now think of today’s modern athletes, whose ubiquitous souvenir stands. The jungle encroaching ing eyes, their actions set into this wall, frozen as a childish behavior and selfish antics often make headon the pathway. The people around me seem equally reminder of what Mayan culture once was. lines – and then remember the Ball Game, where puzzled, whispering, looking at our tour guide for an We walk, and walk, and walk for what feels like players considered it an honor to die.” explanation. hours under the blistering sun. When the colossal As Erik’s words sink in, the inevitable questions “This,” Erik says, gesturing toward the forest, “is Pyramid of Kukulcan finally comes into view, it come. How had these beautiful values disappeared? the tree of life.” seems like a mirage. When I am 100 feet away, the When did we, as human beings, begin to lose ourI notice the tree for the first time. With a covering ancient stone mountain emerges from the heat wave, selves, lose our dedication to community, ➤ ➤ of green bark, it blends in with the foliage around it. mercifully shadowing the area with shade.

Teen Ink •

J A N U A RY ’ 1 7

COMMENT

ON ANY ARTICLE AT

TEENINK.COM

M

y parents came here for the same reason most immigrants do: they longed for the rewards promised by the American dream. But most importantly they came here for us – me and my brother. They wanted to give us a shot at a better life, and that meant leaving behind everything in Russia, the place they had called home, and starting from scratch in New York City. One thing that didn’t get lost in Customs, however, was, well, their customs. Don’t get me wrong, I love my folks and respect the hard work and obstacles that they had to overcome to put a silver spoon in our mouths. But, ask any first-generation immigrant, and they’ll tell you: the pressure to “remember where you come from” and conform to the cultural principles that your family can’t seem to let go of is huge. Add being a girl to that

by “Andrea,” Brooklyn, NY

Now I want to make something equation and the burden gets even clear: I don’t completely disagree heavier. with their cultural values. I have no When you’re the only daughter of problem with helping my mom in the immigrant parents and you reach a kitchen or “acting proper” in front of certain age, they – along with the rest my elders. It’s the fact that I’m exof your relatives – begin to remind pected to behave a certain way simply you of your “role as a woman.” At because I am a female that doesn’t sit least that’s what it was (and still is) right with me. like for me. “Act like a My 13-year-old brother lady,” my mom tells me. is held to entirely different “Be modest and poised,” “Are all standards. He is encourshe says. “It’s about time you your dresses aged to pursue girls and learned how to cook. keep his eyes open during that short?” vulgar movie scenes. The way to a man’s heart “Watch and learn, pal,” is through his stomach, my dad teases him. On the you know,” my grandma other hand, if I mention a boy, even if chimes in. I can’t hear this kind of he’s just a friend, I’m bombarded with rhetoric without cringing. While I a questions. “Who is he?” “How’d understand that this is what they grew you meet him?” “Where’s this guy up with, I can’t wrap my head around from?” “What do his parents do for a why they’re so opposed to exceptions living?” “Is he Jewish?” to “tradition.” And if that’s not enough, then come the ominous warnings. “If I ever find out that you’re not telling me something …” “What if someone in the family sees you out in public with this guy? It’ll ruin your reputation.” Cue guilt trip: “It’s like you don’t want to get married.” “We just want what’s best for you – that’s why we came here – and you repay us by disobeying us?” That’s what I have to go through for telling them I had lunch with a male friend – and people ask me why I’m 18 and still haven’t been in a relationship! “So, what, they don’t allow you to date? Who says you have to tell them?” my friends say. I don’t expect them to understand. Honestly, I don’t see the point in lying to my parents, Photo by Catherine Benoit, Maplewood, NJ

He smiles, a kind smile. “For years my wife to fellow man? convinced me not to take this trip; she was Our bus rumbles back into the Yucatán. The afraid I would get heat stroke or something. forest is strewn with shadows, dancing with Maybe she was right, but she’s gone now.” the ensuing darkness. Plant life hides under the His smile fades. cloak of night; animals retreat to safety. “Yet, how could I not go? Some things in Across the aisle sits the old man with the life you can’t afford to miss. Especially when backpack. I watch as he tips his head back, the you’re my age.” last drop of water trickling down After another sip of water, he his throat. In the last 15 minutes, asks, “And you? Why did you he has emptied three bottles. “Some things come?” Before I realize what I am I try to answer, to put my doing, I reach across the aisle that in life you can’t feelings into words, but how can I separates us and hand him a new afford to miss” describe the bloodied steps of the bottle. He looks at me in surprise. Pyramid of Kukulcan or the coarse Then his face lights up and he stone masonry of the Great Ballgives a loud, boisterous laugh, court? Even now, I can almost feel a rhythm startling for his age. Heads swivel in our direcpounding beneath my feet. The torpid heat and tion, amused at this unlikely interaction. “Thank you, young man.” cool palms. The sweat dripping off my back, I don’t know what to say, but somehow the evaporating into rain. Language holds me back, words form naturally in my mouth. but I think he knows what I am trying to say. For now, it is enough. ✦ “You’re welcome. What brought you here?”

FOLLOW

US ON

INSTAGRAM @TEEN.INK

because the truth always comes out sooner or later (been there, done that), and although I crave the independence my parents would never allow, their trust means a lot more to me. No matter how overprotective my parents are, I know deep down that they shelter me because they care about me, my safety and well being. When my cousins from Moscow – where my parents emigrated from – visited this past summer, the roots of my family’s perceptions of gender roles became evident. The heat in New York was intense. And what’s the appropriate attire for 90-degree weather? Shorts and a tank top, right? Well, let’s just say seeing me “show that much skin” in public was a culture shock to my teenage cousins. “Are all your dresses that short?” one of them asked. “Your shorts are the same length as my boxers,” another one teased, but the intention behind their jokes was obvious. They were clearly uncomfortable with how I was dressed. Being the strong-willed, hardheaded individual that I am, I paid no attention to their judgments. Of course, I tried to explain that what I was wearing was completely appropriate for the season, and while they seemed like they understood, their subtle disapproving stares when I wore a crop top the next day said otherwise. Bottom line: my family’s cultural roots will always influence their values and standards, no matter how much I try to make them look at the world through a different lens. Regardless of how much I try to reject them, their traditions and principles will end up influencing me. ✦

travel & culture

Old World, Meet New

Photo by Brianna Buchler, Miami, FL

J A N U A RY ’ 1 7

• Teen Ink

17

COLLEGE DIRECTORY

Teen Ink • January ’17 • Page 18

ASSUMPTION COLLEGE

UA has a rich tradition of excellence in academics, student life and sports. Ranked in the top 50 public universities surveyed by U.S. News & World Report; 9 undergraduate degree-granting schools and colleges; 20:1 student-teacher ratio; all located on a 1,000-acre historic campus. To learn more, visit gobama.ua.edu/teenink. Box 870132 s Tuscaloosa, AL 35487-0132 s 800-933-BAMA

Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree Programs: t
Illustration t
Graphic Design t
Multimedia/Web Design t
3-D Modeling/Animation t
Life Drawing t
Painting
t
Watercolor Painting t
Photography 332 South Michigan Ave. Chicago, IL 60604-4302 312-461-0600 For more information about our graduation rates and other disclosures, please visit our website at http://www.aaart.edu/disclosures/

Liberal arts college with an emphasis on preparing leaders in business, government and the professions. Best of both worlds as a member of The Claremont Colleges. Suburban location near Los Angeles. 890 Columbia Ave. Claremont, CA 91711 909-621-8088 www.mckenna.edu

Preparing students with individual learning styles for transfer to four-year colleges.

15 majors including two B.A. programs in Arts & Entertainment Management and Dance.

Ashland University’s creative writing majors learn the ins and outs of the writing process from inspiration to publication with professors who have extensive publication experience.

www.ashland.edu/english

Colby-Sawyer is a comprehensive baccalaureate college that integrates the liberal arts and sciences with professional preparation. Take a virtual tour of our beautiful New England campus and learn more about our vibrant, close-knit learning community at www.go.colby-sawyer.edu. Colby-Sawyer College 541 Main Street New London, NH 03257 (800) 272-1015

www.dean.edu 877-TRY DEAN

Fostering creativity and academic excellence since 1854. Thrive in our environment of personalized attention and in the energy of the Twin Cities. 1536 Hewitt Avenue Saint Paul, MN 55104 800-753-9753 www.hamline.edu

Academic excellence and global perspective in one of America‘s most “livable” metropolitan areas. 1000 Grand Avenue St. Paul, MN 55105 800-231-7974 www.macalester.edu

500 Salisbury Street 500 Salisbury St.,ÎÎÎ Worcester, MA 01609 Worcester, MA 01609 1-866-477-7776 1-866-477-7776

www.assumption.edu

CORNELL U N I V E R S I T Y

Cornell, as an Ivy League school and a land-grant college, combines two great traditions. A truly American institution, Cornell was founded in 15 and remains a place where “any person can find instruction in any study.” 410 Thurston Avenue Ithaca, NY 14850 607-255-5241 www.cornell.edu

• Private New England College founded in 1784 • Welcoming atmosphere, easy to make friends • Thorough preparation for a career-targeted job • We place 95% of our students in jobs upon graduation Office of Admissions 61 Sever Street, Worcester, MA 01609 1-508-373-9400 • www.becker.edu

Dartmouth

A member of the Ivy League and widely recognized for the depth, breadth, and flexibility of its undergraduate program, Dartmouth offers students an extraordinary opportunity to collaborate with faculty in the pursuit of their intellectual aspirations. 6016 McNutt Hall Hanover, NH 03755 603-646-2875 www.dartmouth.edu

DELAWARE VALLEY COLLEGE $%,!7!2% 6!,,%9 #/,,%'% • 1,600 Undergraduate Students s  5NDERGRADUATE3TUDENTS • Nationally Ranked Athletics Teams s .ATIONALLY2ANKED!THLETICS4EAMS s -ORETHANPROGRAMSOFSTUDY INCLUDING#RIMINAL*USTICE "USINESS !DMINISTRATION 3MALL!NIMAL 3CIENCE %QUINE3TUDIES AND #OUNSELING0SYCHOLOGY

Built on Catholic education values of academic excellence, DeSales University is driven by educators and advisors that inspire performance. 2755 Station Avenue CenterValley, PA 18034

$ELAWARE6ALLEY#OLLEGE 99 Main Street Franklin, MA 02038

Since 1904 Since 1904 d iexcellence ll i with h thearich, • Academic Excellence in • Academic rich Catholic intellectualtradition tradition Catholic intellectual World Class Faculty in Small ••Highly regarded faculty andClasses averaging 20 students small classes • Quality of Life in aresidential 90% • Close-knit, very active Residential community (90%Community of students live on campus allÎÎÎ 4 years)

$OYLESTOWN 0! 777$%,6!,%$5s  $%,6!,

Harvard offers 6,500 undergraduates an education from distinguished faculty in more than 40 fields in the liberal arts as well as engineering and applied science.

877.4.DESALES

www.desales.edu/teenink

A challenging private university for adventurous students seeking an education with global possibilities.

Get Where You Want To Go

8 Garden Street Cambridge, MA 02138 617-495-1551 www.harvard.edu

Mount Holyoke is a highly selective liberal arts college for women, recognized worldwide for its rigorous academic program, its global community, and its legacy of women leaders. MOUNT HOLYOKE COLLEGE 50 College Street, South Hadley, MA 01075

www.mtholyoke.edu

www.hpu.edu/teenink

Ohio Northern is a comprehensive university of liberal arts and professional programs offering more than 3,600 students over 70 majors in the colleges of Arts & Sciences, Business Administration, Engineering, Pharmacy and Law.

Fordham offers the distinctive Jesuit philosophy of education, marked by excellent teaching, intellectual inquiry and care of the whole student, in the capital of the world. www.fordham.edu/tink

Located in New York’s stunning Finger Lakes region, Ithaca College provides a first-rate education on a first-name basis. Its Schools of Business, Communications, Health Sciences and Human Performance, Humanities and Sciences, and Music and its interdisciplinary division offer over 100 majors. my.ithaca.edu 100 Job Hall, 953 Danby Road Ithaca, NY 14850 800-429-4272 • www.ithaca.edu/admission

Earn a BA in Global Studies while studying at our centers in Costa Rica, India, China, NYC or with our programs in Australia, Taiwan, Turkey and Thailand! 9 Hanover Place, Brooklyn, NY 11201 www.liu.edu/globalcollege 718.780.4312 • [email protected]

An experience of a lifetime, with experience for a lifetime.

BUSINESS CULINARY ARTS HOSPITALITY TECHNOLOGY Providence, Rhode Island

1-800-342-5598 www.jwu.edu

7YVNYHTZMVY/PNO:JOVVS:[\KLU[Z

Office of Admissions Ada, OH 45810 1-888-408-4668 www.onu.edu/teen

GET YOUR COLLEGE LISTED • Nationally ranked liberal arts college • Self-designed and interdepartmental majors • Small classes taught by distinguished faculty • 100+ campus organizations • 23 NCAA Division III sports • A tradition of service-learning 61 S. Sandusky St. • Delaware, OH 43015 800-922-8953 • www.owu.edu

in this directory and on TeenInk.com 1-800-363-1986 [email protected]

TeenInk.com/College-Directory

,HYUJVSSLNLJYLKP[ZHUKL_WLYPLUJL[OLL_JP[LTLU[VMJVSSLNLSPML

Z\TTLYJVSSLNLJVYULSSLK\

COLLEGE DIRECTORY

Teen Ink • January ’17 • Page 19

Princeton

BACHELOR ❘ ASSOCIATE ❘ CERTIFICATE

Talent teaches talent in Pratt’s writing BFA for aspiring young writers. Weekly discussions by guest writers and editors. Nationally recognized college for the arts. Beautiful residential campus minutes from Manhattan.

Choose from more than 100 career fields. www.pct.edu/ink

 7KH ODUJHVW LQWHUQVKLS SODFHPHQW SURJUDPRIDQ\XQLYHUVLW\LQWKH 1HZ