MLIH

When I heard people talking about a test that not everyone had taken, I politely asked them to refrain so that the Honor Code could be upheld. - MLIH

MLIH

I saw that my grade on a test was higher than it should have been because a teacher made a grading error so I went to the teacher to fix it. - MLIH

MLIH

I saw that the teacher had left up some answers on the board before a test and so I erased them before we could start. - MLIH

Finals aren't the End | Sahana Narayanan

In a world where grades apparently determine the course of our adult life, and time to dwell freely in our imagination is scarce, we often lose sight of the bigger, more genuine picture: Life is short. We spend countless hours pouring over our textbooks, hoping to find some relief in a letter grade that seemingly dictates our self-worth. In the context of our grade-driven lives, it is important to find something that makes us truly happy. Not just the satisfaction of finishing a test or getting a good grade back, but something more inherent and intrinsic. Realize a passion, a love that you would be happy spending the rest of your life doing. Not only does enjoying a passion relieve the tension of school, it also provides the creative outlet of expression. In my case, it was always music. Making something beautiful, whether it was the sound of my bow against the string, or giving full control to my voice, made me feel as if I was creating my own piece of art. Be honest and truthful to yourself. Give life to your personality. As much as our final exams are important, they do not represent who we are as people, so they do not warrant feeling overwhelmed. Don't dread getting a grade back. At a certain point, step back, and take a deep breath. No matter what happens, life is more than a letter!

Christmas gifts | Sahana Narayanan

I am grateful to be celebrating an “East Coast Christmas” this year, but at the same time, I know that I am extremely lucky. As part of our advisory tradition, we participated in an annual charity event called “Adopt a Family,” where we bought holiday gifts for an underprivileged family that lacked basic necessities. I am grateful that we’re given the opportunity to attend a school like Harker. Despite all the trials and tribulations we seemingly undergo as teenagers, we still lead relatively normal lives. As educated and well-off members of society, it is our duty to contribute our time and energy to our community, especially in this season of giving.

MLIH

Last week, I saw a student who's entire backpack was wide open with everything on the verge of falling out. Rather than watch his struggle, I walked over and offered to zip it up. MLIH

MLIH

I throw my Capri Sun away in the green Capri Sun repurposing bins. MLIH

MLIH

Finals are coming up, but don't be too scared (A little bit of anxiety is okay). I know everyone will do just fine; we're all Harker students after all. Believe in yourself. Believe in your studying. MLIH

MLIH

Over winter break, relax and don't do too much homework. Though grades important, don't forget that spending time with your family and friends is a priority as well. They are the ones who support you unconditionally. Remember, you only have a few years or even months of high school left. Cherish them and make memories with your loved ones.

MLIH

One of my friends isn't doing very well in Calculus and is not looking very forward to the final. He asked me if I could spare one hour of my own study time to help him. I happily agreed!

MLIH

Even though finals are around the corner, don't stress too much. Have confidence in yourself and what you can do. Don't stay up late the night before to cram. Get a good night's rest and think positively. Good luck!