IN THIS ISSUE HIGHLIGHTS OF THE TERM

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE TERM 3

BCA NEWS • WINTER CONCERT 4-5 • COSTUME PARTY 6-7 • EGG DROP 8-9 • EXCHANGE STUDENTS 10 • CAW BAND 11

Hockey Tournament | Photo Credit: Iris Wu Winter Concert | Photo Credit: Ms. Lowe SPORTS HOUSE POINTS UPDATE • FLOORBALL TOURNAMENT 12-13 • HOCKEY TOURNAMENT 14-15

FEATURE • NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS 16-17 • TEATMENT OF DEPRESSION 18 • TRAVEL TO TOKYO 19 • DR. NELSON’S STORY 20

Costume Party treats | Photo Credit: Ms. Lowe ENTERTAINMENT • TROYE SIVAN’S BLOOM 21 • WILD GOOSE LAKE REVIEW 22 • HAPPY HOLIDAYS, BCA! 23

Photo Credits & Corrections Front and back covers: Ms. Lowe Pine and new year’s backgrounds: Designed by Freepik Winter Concert | Photo Credit: Belle Liu Last issue we misspelled Rachel Cheng’s name on page 2. Photos in SAPC and Yearbook interviews were provided by members themselves. - Page 2 - - Page 3 - BCA NEWS BCA 2019 Winter Concert: A unique celebration By Aragorn Xu| Reporter

lyrics sung by others, because the rap was written partly to mark my three years in high school, and partly to in- spire the younger students.” Near the end of the concert, Mr. Kubin and Ms. Ince performed their Kubince parody song “Coach Zwirn the P.E. Teacher.” The original song is called “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Rein- deer”, and they changed the lyrics to make them relate more to school mat- ters. The song started with Mr. Lemay’s voice: “You know Yasin and Wilson…” which astonished and excited the stu- dents. The main part of the song fea- tured Mr. Zwirn as a P.E. teacher. Winter Concert performances | Photo Credit: Ms. Lowe During the break between the verses, some students went on the stage and On December the 24th, BCA held ferent from the past few years’. The Stu- started to run, bringing the performance its annual winter concert in the after- dent Council included some unique new to a climax. “Mr. Kubin and I decided to noon. The winter concert is a day when methods to celebrate this concert. For perform this a long time ago,” said Ms. the whole school comes together to see example, Gary Feng and Harbeth Zhang Ince, “we each changed one verse but performances from various individuals, were seen throwing candies out to the we had difficulty timing our singing to groups, clubs and classes. audience during the gaps between per- the introduction part of the song, so we Students from various grades and formances. An original rap song, made asked Mr. Lemay to sing that for us.” groups performed during the con- especially by the Student Council, was This performance brought the winter cert. Some clubs like the Dance Club, also a brand new surprise for the stu- concert to an end. BCAers enjoyed it Music Club and Chinese Dance Club dents. They also filmed a “Happy New and are really looking forward to our made their usual appearances on stage, Year” video featuring greetings in var- next performance assembly. and they brought the audience modern ious languages. Ozwell Wang, the rap This performance brought the dance, songs and classical dance. The song writer and also a member from the winter concert to an end. BCAers en- grade 10s showed their enthusiasm by Student Council, said, “We tried to add joyed it and are really looking forward performing with their classes. Some in new elements to the concert to make to our next performance assembly. • individual and group performances fea- it more memorable. We spent about 200 tured were the CAW band, Meredith RMB on the candies, spent time filming Peng’s “Thank You, Next,” Mark Shi’s the greetings in various languages, and “Boulevard of Broken Dreams” and we hope everyone enjoyed it.” When many more. asked about the rap that he wrote, This year’s winter concert was dif- Ozwell said, “I felt pleased watching my

Winter Concert Photos: Rachel Cheng & Ms. Lowe Winter Concert performances | Photo Credit: Belle Liu & Rachel Cheng Comic by Rachel Cheng - Page 4 - BCA NEWS Costume Party 2019: A spooky day of fun and an adventure for the brave By Nina Shangguan & Jason Zhang| Reporters On November 19th, 2019, BCA library, where the whole area was dec- forward to coming back to BCA to visit held its annual Costume Party, an event orated. This year, the Student Council and seeing familiar smiling faces!” in which students (and teachers) can not only provided sandwiches and cakes The performances took place on dress up and have fun. Although the for the main course, but also a variety the third floor of the gym and were event only lasted for a few hours, the of desserts. Students could also choose wonderful as usual. Everyone enjoyed Student Council members prepared for from a variety of drinks, including milk the amazing performances by talented weeks to take this party to a whole new tea. There was also a portable speaker individuals, band and clubs. level. that was playing music. Although the format of the Cos- A lot of effort went into the Cos- Ms. Bartell also came back to visit tume Party was largely the same as in tume Party this year. The Student the students before the performances the past couple of years, the Adventure Council started planning and prepar- started. BCA Insider also interviewed House, however, was quite different. ing for it since October 13th, about one Ms. Bartell. “I felt so welcome when I Instead of using space in the gym, the month ahead of time. Planning for such came back to BCA and saw some of the Student Council, with the help of dedi- an event is not easy; there are so many grade 11s and 12s. From being met at cated volunteers, turned the entire BCA aspects to take into consideration. Is the school gate by Mike Zhao and Ja- Building into a scary Adventure House. the budget enough? Is the plan feasible? cob Hu to leaving with a large group The props were very realistic, and the Are people going to like what has been of Grade 12 boys, it was like old times,” atmosphere was really spooky. Some planned? Although the preparation was she said, “I was so proud of those who hard, the result was definitely worth it. performed and was so happy to see The dinner before the perfor- everyone, although I’ll admit some of mances was still buffet-style. Tables those in Cosplay costumes and make- and chairs were set up in front the big up I couldn’t recognize. I am looking

Costume Party Photos. | Photo Credit: Tommy Yu & Melody Ru

people, like Mr. Kubin, had a lot of fun unfinished food. The last group of vis- Next was the lecture hall, its ceil- scaring people in the Adventure House. itors had already disappeared. Where ing hung with long white strips of cloth, We interviewed a survivor of the were they now? Stepping closer to the and a red smiling face staring me down. Adventure House, Jason Zhang, about table, my shadow lengthened gradually. It was hard to stay calm. his experience. This is his story: A hand suddenly shot out from under- Our group then went downstairs, Crossing the yard and coming to neath the table. It held my foot so tightly where a white ghost wrapped in chains the entrance of the Adventure House, a that I could only shout for help. Luckily, floated down the corridor, muttering skeleton with shining red eyes stood in a friend grabbed me and pulled me out vague words. While I was distract- front of the door and stared at all vic- of the library. ed by that ghost, a sharp scream burst tims who walked through the doorway. The next minute, we were es- from the washroom. Aaahhhhh! An- Woooo Woooo…the wailing sound caping to the second floor. Nearly no other ghost stuck her head out of the of the ghost was accompanied by the light could pass through the window, washroom doorway, right next to me. sound of the draft coming out of the and blood on the panes blocked all the I rushed to the exit of the adventure Adventure House. light from the moon. I stayed close to house without hesitation – I could not Spooky ushers urged me into the the wall and went into another room. stay any longer. House. I shivered for a minute and This time, black umbrellas hindered my Outside, I breathed a sigh of relief plunged into the first room. The library way. When I looked up my head again, and awe. The adventure was over, and I was decorated with numerous candles. a clown was smiling at me. Holy cow! felt both scared and excited. • White placemats on the table were dot- My heart was beating fast. “Hurry! Let’s ted with blood and covered in plates of get out of here!” Costume Party Photos. | Photo Credit: Belle Liu & Melody Ru - Page 6 - - Page 7 - BCA NEWS The egg drop project: Science is not just about tests By Agatha Hu | Reporter

On December 5th, 10A and 10B students did the annual egg drop project in science class. Before dropping eggs, students had to weigh their containers. Surprisingly, the lightest container was only 60 grams. In contrast, the heaviest container was over 800 grams. After the packaging time was up, grade 10 science teacher Ms. K led stu- dents outside to drop their eggs. Stu- dents first dropped their eggs from the third floor. Unluckily, half of the eggs failed to survive. Ms. K then gave the students a second chance. Finally, only one group failed. For the next round, the successful groups dropped eggs from the fourth floor. Since the fourth floor is much higher than the third floor, only a few groups’ eggs survived the drop. The groups with surviving eggs all had unique containers. Tommy’s group used plastic foam to make a big cylinder for the egg. This method was incredi- bly successful, keeping the egg 100% safe. Emily’s group also had a simple but effective container. They used two Egg drop student project | Photo Credits: Lucy Liu paper cups filled with coarse rice for their egg. Zoe’s group built a contain- • “I couldn’t believe that our simple tests. When asked to comment about er which was similar to a circular cone container was successful in mak- the project, Ms. K said, “This is the most that was a completely different shape ing the egg survive the fall,” said happiness that I have ever seen in Sci- from other groups’. Most surprisingly, Emily. ence 10 class.” In addition to being en- Mary’s group, who had the lightest con- • “This is the most interesting sci- joyable, this science project also taught tainer, also succeeded! We learned that ence class that I have ever had,” students about scientific research and even though some containers looked said Lily. team spirit. • ridiculous, it did not mean that they Certainly, this egg drop project in- represented failure. Only by doing the volved more than just dropping eggs. experiment could we know the efficacy Students did lots of research, compar- of students’ containers. ison and discussion. The biggest chal- Here are some quotes from stu- lenge for most students was that there dents about their experiences during were many regulations, such as the lim- the egg drop project: itation for weight. None of the students • “We failed the drop from the third got full marks in all of the requirements; floor but we succeeded from the however, smart groups balanced differ- fourth floor!” shouted Frank with ent ideas and calculated what methods excitement. would cost them the least. This forced • “Although we are the only ones students to think about more than just who failed the drop from the third whether or not the egg would survive floor, I still enjoyed this project,” the drop from the fourth floor. said Fiona. Science is not just about quiz and Egg drop student project | Photo Credits: Mirana Chen - Page 8 - - Page 9 - BCA NEWS BCA NEWS Bridging cultural differences: Meeting our Music for charity: Let’s meet the CAW band! exchange students By Lucia Xu | Reporter By Ginny Yan | Reporter The CAW band, a newly built ty, showed great joy and excitement charity-based band, was set up by and when asked about the band. It was a named after 3 Grade 11 students, re- surprise for her when she found out spectively William Mao, Chris Fan, and that the rehearsal spot was her junior Arthur Lin. As a member of the League high school. Using professional instru- of Raising Awareness of Autistic Chil- ments has impressed her a lot as well. dren, all of the band’s income is donated “Other band members have told me to the Ningxin Sunshine School, House many things about the band and it re- of Autistic Children. The money con- ally made me feel very good about BCA tributes to the goal of arranging music as well as the band. I really appreciate CAW Band Logo | Photo Credit : William Mao classes for the children. Designed by Arthur Lin them for organizing this,” said Alice During their performance at the with gratitude. Ningxin Sunshine School, the band and rehearse. Watching them play to- Other members from the band members had memorable experienc- gether, one can see the harmony and are major participants in all the band’s es, and were able to harvest their hard good relationships built between the events, showing their interest in show- work and gain a sense of fulfillment as members. “When someone is show- ing off their own talents and skills. “I well. William, one of the band found- ing off their skills, others would stand am convinced that the CAW band is a ers, said: “I’m very sympathetic towards by and listen carefully. Whenever he/ perfect team for me, because I can show them. They have to spend almost their she makes a simple mistake, others will my skills in music and it gives me the whole lives at school, because only the just look at him/her with a small smile precious opportunity to play in front of school can provide a source of educa- or cough for a while (in an absolutely others,” stated Frank Zhang. Caitlin Xu tion and work for them. That’s why we friendly way). Later we talk to each oth- added, “It is a nice band, as it not only are trying our best to help them and re- er about how to improve. We end up includes the excellent purpose of help- spect them.” spending a fascinating time together,” ing others, but also focuses on friend- During weekly joint trainings on said Chris, another founder of the band. ships between the band members. The Exchange students Katryn (left) and Irene (right). | Photo Credit: Ginny Yan Thursdays, all the core members of the Alice Sun, who performed as the cooperation between the band’s mem- band gather at the NFLS 1912 Campus band’s lead singer for the Costume Par- bers left me with a good impression.” • Annually, Nanjing Foreign Lan- have to adapt to a new lifestyle without over differences. “Here in China, I feel guage School (NFLS) holds exchange any previous experience. Our school it’s hard to approach people and home- programs, bringing students with fresh schedule is contrasts quite sharply with sickness bothers me,” Katryn said. The perspectives from other countries and theirs. In Italy, for instance, students exchange students’ host families play a causing unexpected but exciting results. have five classes from 8:00 to 13:00 from major role in influencing their life in This year, BCA welcomes its new guests: Monday to Saturday, whereas here, stu- Nanjing as well. In the interview, Irene Brad, Irene, and Katryn, exchange stu- dents take classes from Monday to Fri- said she saw things differently from dents who are from Denmark, Italy, and day, and school goes later into the after- her host family and she is not used to Estonia respectively. noon. Chinese students also have less receiving constant attention from her All of them are interested in Chi- free time because of their schedule. Ka- host parents. “I’m used to my Italian nese culture and are motivated to tryn mentioned that students here pay parents…and even though they care for learn the Chinese language, and so more attention to their future and their me very much, they leave me space and when hearing about a chance to study careers than her classmates in Estonia. time to think and act independently.” abroad, they chose China as the coun- Apart from the obvious differences in When being asked about their try they wanted to experience. Brad, education systems, cultural differences, impressions of BCA, Katryn and Irene curious about a business career in Chi- such as etiquette, can also be confusing. gave high compliments. “Here, I don’t na, thinks an exchange opportunity is a “When apologizing, people here show understand others very much because of great way to develop his knowledge of their sincerity by looking down to the the language barrier. BCA is my lifesav- China while also getting away from his ground. However, this action is con- er,” Katryn said. Moreover, according routine school life back in Denmark for sidered impolite in Denmark. This is to Irene, the teachers are all very nice some time. something I am trying to learn,” Brad and friendly: “I can see how this makes The differences between the stu- said. the students feel more comfortable and dents’ home culture and Chinese culture Although it is exciting to be in not under constant pressure.” • is one of the issues that concerns every a completely new environment, they international student. Students will conceded they struggled with getting CAW Band at Costume Party | Photo credit: Ms. Lowe - Page 10 - - Page 11 - SPORTS A thrilling floorball match: Maritimes won by a neck By Joanna Wang | Reporter

On December 17th and 18th, the sport at BCA starting just last year. Al- competitive floorball, and so it must floorball matches between houses took though the ball is not big and the field have been very interesting and new to place after school in the gym. Maritimes is not as big as a football field, it is still them. The grade 10s are very curious won first place with 9 goals total and a challenge for most of the players to about this sport. Some of them eagerly only 6 goals against them, thanks to the run throughout the game. Many players participated in the game and contrib- best shooter in their house: Oscar Zhou fought to stay in the game and attackers uted to their house’s efforts. It is really from G11 with 6 shots. “I really appre- were always looking for the best chance a good sign that more G10s are willing ciate my teammates and want to say to shoot. Though it was tiring, for the to participate in such activities, which thanks to them because without them glory of their houses, THEY NEVER brings them closer to the core of the I couldn’t have gotten so many goals,” STOPPED! BCA family. Oscar said. Rockies narrowly missed The grade 12s were either fighting At last, we are grateful to Caroline the champion title as they also scored 9 tooth and nail on the field or cheering Mao and other students from Work goals total but had 7 goals against them for their own team in the stands. They Experience 12 for organizing such fun – one more compared to Maritimes. seemed to have realized that this may and competitive games. We also cannot Shield came in third place, and although be the last time that they can fight for forget all the efforts made by the house Tundra didn’t win any games, we can- their house in floorball. As time goes by, leaders in supporting their teams and by not forget to credit the best goalie in there will be fewer games to play with all the students who participated in the their house with 23 saves: Max Yang housemates and less time to spend with game or watched the game. They unit- from grade 12. He commented at the dear classmates. They cherish every ed BCA, brought us closer together and end of the game: “Although I could not moment on the field, cooperating and represented how BCA is more than a help my team to win, I did my best to fighting. school! • help my team lose less.” Meanwhile, this tournament is the Floorball started being a regular first time our grade 10s have played

House Floorball Tournament of 2019. | Photo Credits: Barry Jiang (above), Tommy Yu (right) - Page 12 - SPORTS BCA 2019 Hockey Tournament: More than a sporting event By Olivia Feng | Reporter

After several weeks’ preparation, the windy but sunny fine weather in the morning of November 8th finally brought in this year’s BCA Hockey Tournament. This time, students were separated by a combination of grades and classes (Grade 10 in green, Grade 11 in blue, and Grade 12 in white) against two teacher teams, including Principal Lawlor’s Team in red and Mr. Zwirn’s Team in black. The tournament started sharply at 7:45, and the playground was separated into two for two concurrent games. With each game lasting for only 20 minutes, the audience had to be 100% concentrated to catch every thrilling moment. After 2 hours, the final match started between winner from each side of the field, 12ABC and Hockey Tournament Photo | Photo Credit: Iris Wu Team Lawlor. During previous games, For Grade 12s, as this is one of the As usual, this year’s hockey tournament each team had won comparable points, last chances to participate in such also spotlighted the top scorer, Mr. so the final match was very breath tournaments, every one of them were Johnson, who scored 10 goals in 3 taking. Eventually, Team Lawlor won proactive and highly involved in this games. Second scorer Mr. Lawlor who with 3 points ahead of Team 12ABC. event. “This was a very impressive event scored 6 goals and 4 more third scorers This year’s hockey tournament for me from which I learned about not also deserve a big shout out. carries various meanings for everyone. only teamwork but also to always treat As a tradition of BCA, hockey For new BCAers, this is the very first the team’s collective benefit as priority,” tournament is more than only a sport time that they were exposed to a BCA said Theodore Wang, a player in Team event for BCAers and teachers. It is a tradition. Michael Mi from 10B said 12ABC. chance for students to not only notice that this is the first time that he Apart from players on the field, the significant of teamwork, but also participated in this kind of game because volunteers also contributed a lot to this develop their sense of responsibilities. It he did not have such experiences in event. As a volunteer referee from is also delighted to see how students middle school. He affirms that the Grade 12, Thomas Fang viewed this had enjoyed this sport that some of competing atmosphere was awesome. event as “a kind of special experience them decided to take hockey as a life- “However, I did not enjoy the to participate by doing volunteer work, long hobby. • tournament too much because the helping teachers referee and record.” teachers’ team were too strong and almost “slaughtered” us :),” stated Mich- ael. For Grade 11s whose PE course no longer includes hockey practice, it was a very good opportunity for them to gain practical experiences. “I am super interested in hockey so it’s a pity that we don’t have hockey this year for Fitness and Conditioning 11. Hockey tournament undeniably provided me with a great opportunity to try this sport again,” claimed Eric Shi from 11B Hockey Tournament Photo | Photo Credit: Iris Wu - Page 14 - - Page 15 - FEATURE

“The most important one is planning a mountain trip from Jiangxi to Yunnan” --Harbeth Zhang “learn to play bass, form a band called ‘sugardaddy’ and play switch a lot during the winter holiday” “be accepted by a dream school, be pretty and slim.” --Caroline Mao --Joanna Wang

Caroline plans to start her band, beware: you may simply be enjoying Cloudia wants to train herself to be the nice future prospects an ambitious a rapper, and Mr. Zwirn talks about New Year’s resolution grants. When learning more Chinese. Everyone you lay out a list of goals, you think boasts of their ambition for the New that you are going to be that versatile, “Go to university” Year. But imagine, when you bounce interesting person in “the future”. Yes, --Joy Zhu up from your pillow early in morn- “the New Year”, though but two weeks ing on January 1st, 2020 and find your ahead, sounds like the future. This is new-year schedule bombarded by nu- where the effect of mindset comes to merous “to-do”s and “to-learn”s, are play. If you draw a deep breath and an- you going to collapse back into your nounce that you will be up to some- bed or shoot up instantly, full-charged thing new within two weeks, your with energy? mind would be geared up for the new Question: why wait until the errand, but if you tell yourself that all New Year? Surely, a New Year is a new your fancy goals are left for next year, “Be scolded by Roxana” Do this next year: Defending beginning, a time when you shrug off your mind would most likely slacken --Kerri Wang the burden from last year and embark and drift away due to the lack of ur- your new year’s resolution on something brand new. New Year’s gency. resolutions, just like changing into Besides, “New Year” itself is new clothes for the Spring Festival, ambiguous. You want to get all your against procrastination carries some ceremonial value. But do wishes for 2020 fulfilled, but when we really esteem this ceremony, or are exactly? You may either plunge into we just rationalizing our procrastina- them in early January or put them off By Roxana Wang | Reporter tion? Just reflect upon your New Year all the way to late December. resolution for 2019 to see. You may have to wait until the “keep fit.” This reflection probably stings. next summer vacation to travel across --Polly Tai Every year you have New Year’s res- continents, but you definitely need not olutions, but when the initial excite- wait until then to learn Gothic callig- ment wears off, the dire fact pokes raphy or skateboarding. As a safe bet “play the guitar, go skateboarding, learn to cook, do digital art, sing, be a into your face: you may not be reso- against procrastination, begin to flesh rapper, and play steam games” lute enough to put them into action. out your plans before procrastination --Cloudia Zhang When inquired about whether she had catches up with you. fulfilled her 2019 new resolution, M I bet your New Year’s resolution (she prefers to be anonymous) smiled is super cool, but consider what it takes awkwardly and replied that she has to translate resolution into action. • entirely forgotten about it. Therefore, “remix music, explore Nanjing City, crush Caroline’s band, be great at pho- toshopping, and watch horror films in a private cinema” --Roxana Wang “Pass TOEFL, SAT, AP, and AMC, and Physics Bowl. Be happy ” --Victoria Cao

“learn more Chinese and travel a lot” --Mr. Zwirn “Eat a lot without gaining any weight” --Shirley Shi

- Page 16 - - Page 17 - FEATURE FEATURE Treatment of depression throughout the ages Fall in love with Tokyo this winter By Antony Zhou | Reporter By Lilian Cheng & Hilda Xu | Reporter

In our modern society, it is more As the winter holiday (and the instead, those items have witnessed at day and a beautiful view. You can take and more challenging to become an out- term 2 exam) approaches, many BCAers least 50 years of history, and they are a bath in the onsen and eat delicious standing member. Therefore, suffering have started to set a plan for the fantas- filled with historical value. sashimi while appreciating the beautiful from stress and depression is common, tic one-month vacation. Today, SAPC Besides the shopping, there are snowflakes falling outside the window. especially among the younger genera- would like to recommend to you a fab- many ranges of dishes available in In addition, skiing at the foot of Mount tions; sometimes, it is hard for them to ulous place you cannot afford to miss. downtown Tokyo. You will definitely Fuji after relaxing in an onsen hotel not get motivated to do any upcoming tasks Tokyo, as the capital city of Japan, has want to try the local cuisine. Don’t miss only provides you with an opportunity due to that instantaneous feeling of “I always been internationally famous as the chance to try Japanese style hot pot to experience the happiness of skiing, can achieve nothing.” a popular travel destination during the or sukiyaki. On a cold snowy night, who but also see the sights from the ski lifts. For the majority, this thought winter. Attractions in the city include would say no to steaming hot pot? Just a Another suburban tourist attraction fades away after several hours natu- not only appealing natural views, but spoonful of thick soup base immediate- highly recommended by Lexi Dong was rally, or merely by distracting oneself also modern and busy streets. ly drives the chill away and knocks the the Sensoji Temple. It is the oldest and with entertainment. However, when There is no doubt that Ginza, locat- door to warmth and sweetness. More- most significant Buddhist temple in Ja- someone is unable to quell these emo- ed at the center of Tokyo, is the busiest over, the addition of fresh vegetables, pan. It is said that if you sincerely make tions, a depressive mood can become a avenue with multiple shopping malls meat and bean products with spicy dip- a vow to Kami in this temple, the amu- long-term issue, leading to depression. and recreation facilities. According to ping sauces helps create the magic that let you buy at the temple could help you As reported, around 3-5 percent of the Lexi Dong’s personal travelling experi- cannot wait to spoil your taste buds. to realize your wishes. population in China has experienced ence, Ginza is a heaven for shopping. Unlike the busy and modern ur- By combining both the modern depression before. Although some have Products in most luxury stores have rel- ban area, the Tokyo suburbs have a and the traditional in one city, Tokyo is managed to step out of this mental ill- atively lower prices than domestic ones peaceful and cozy style. If you travel not only a metropolis, but also a perfect ness with the assistance of medicine, due to the duty-free policy in Japan. Be- away from the city to the world-famous place for relaxing. After viewing Tokyo family members, friends, or psycho- sides luxury stores, there are also several Mount Fuji by taking the Shinkansen, skyscrapers and the tranquil scenes just therapists, others are unable to escape special-theme shops. Among them, vin- which is the fastest maglev train, you outside the city, you will definitely have from it, and, even worse, many choose tage collection stores usually gain the will find paradise there. Besides the ex- some wonderful memories and experi- to commit suicide because of the over- most popularity. Although most prod- traordinary scenery of the snow-cov- ences if you make Tokyo your next hol- whelming pressure. ucts in vintage stores are second hand, ered Mount Fuji, the hot spring hotels iday destination. • Mental illnesses, including de- it does not mean that they are rubbish; nearby can provide you with a relaxing pression, have not been treated with as much seriousness as physical diseases Stress can impact a person’s wellbeing. | Image Credit: Freepik by the public for a long time. Sufferers are accused of being “too weak”, or in who suffered depression were shunned “Tree Hole Rescue Team” have man- some better (but not helpful) cases, are by society and many were purged ac- aged to prevent hundreds of suicides. comforted by empty words like “Every- cording to eugenic principles. For in- Similar moves are happening all around thing will be fine soon.” In our current stance, laws in 1924 Virginia caused the globe: if “suicide” is searched on the society, social media can worsen the sit- the state to imprison and sterilize those web, links and telephone numbers will uation. Online, anonymous netizens are with mental illness, alongside those appear, connecting sufferers with pro- often inconsiderate and mean. When who were racially different, physically fessional help. With better understand- social media posts include humiliating disabled or homeless. Around the mid- ing towards these illnesses, people are words to mock mental illnesses, these 20th century, psychologists discovered becoming kinder towards the patients. evil thoughts can trigger extreme and the sociological and neurological factors As individuals, we can help desperate responses from sufferers. that caused depression and began to in- potential patients to avoid depression. To trace the origin of this so- vent corresponding medications. Major steps are to encourage them to ciety-wide lack of awareness, historical The silver lining today is that speak about their troubles and then reasons must be reviewed. Psychology more people are trying to help suffer- invite them to participate in entertain- and the concept of “mind” was not un- ers of mental illness. While social me- ment that can lighten their mood. The derstood until the twentieth century. As dia has its drawbacks, it has also pro- key is to understand their perspective such, treatment of mental illnesses was vided a platform for patients to share and to be aware of the difference mental often chaotic, without clear recognition their troubles with others. By tracing illness can have on how one perceives of how damaging these illnesses could chatroom histories via artificial intel- life. • be. Beginning from the same era, people ligence software, volunteers from the

Asian women wearing traditional Japanese kimono in Yasaka Pagoda in Kyoto, Japan |Photo Credits: Freepik - Page 18 - - Page 19 - FEATURE ENTERTAINMENT Dr. Nelson’s odyssey: For the sensitive youth Troye Sivan The story of how he came to work at BCA represents: It is time for them to BLOOM By Aragorn Xu | Reporter By Joy Tang | Reporter

“Okay, my name is Dr. Nelson, your One of the most exciting entertain- ly depicting love between the same sex, excitedly: “Troye is not only a fabulous physics teacher, please don’t call me Mr. ment events to happen recently is that he writes subtle but real emotions in the singer and song-writer, but also a signif- Nelson, or I’ll be very angry,” Dr. Nelson Troye Sivan, a world-famous pop music song. It’s different from his first album, icant member of the LGBTQ commu- introduced himself. This introduction singer, came to China in November to “Blue Neighbourhood,” in that this one nity. The first time I discovered Troye was not an unusual one for a teacher, hold a series of concerts as a part of his is more about love, joy, growth, self-dis- was on YouTube, as the first YouTubers but students did not get to hear it until Bloom Tour. Last summer, at the age of covery, and his personal experience of were coming out publicly. He offered the second week of October. 23, he released his second studio album, exploring the boundaries between in- not only entertaining content but also At the beginning of Sep-tember, “Bloom”, which witnessed him success- nocence and maturity. authentic guidance for the lost people when the Physics 12 students stepped fully transition from a YouTuber to a In terms of music, Sivan men- in or out of the closet. Later on, he re- into the physics classroom, they were mainstream pop artist. In this album, he tioned in an interview that he has his leased his first album, “Blue Neighbour- startled when they saw Ms. Washburne is not so much a musician who wants to own “secret playlist,” which includes sad hood.” This album is never on my sin- at the front desk. She explained that meet the needs of the public, but rath- Swedish electronic music, retro British gle-cycle playlist as the feelings it brings the new physics teacher, Dr. Nelson, er a young man who is showing his real Goth Pop and classic American rock. He up are too overwhelming to be listened had to take time to get his work visa and artistic essence: a carefree liberation and his team melded all these and made to daily. Only when the mood is there for China, and the process is extremely that expresses a contagious power that it into Sivan’s unique style. It is not as can I put on my headphones and listen time consuming. During an interview, crosses gender and orientation lines. noisy as the popular hip-pop of today, to it somewhere, alone. This next al- Dr. Nelson related his journey and told In the past few years, the LGBTQ but it tends to be a simple, joyful, shiny bum is another one of Troye’s great ex- me a little bit about himself. groups could only look for themselves Synthpop and Dance Pop. Elements of plorations into new genres, being fully Dr. Nelson was a general practice in heterosexual pop music, but now, the modern and retro are combined emancipated to express what he wants doctor before he came to China. His Sivan is determined to make this group wonderfully in his music. to say. He has brought the LGBTQ cul- nationality is American, but he has been be heard and seen. He completely ig- Some BCA students are also fans of ture out of the closet, showing it to the working in Europe for the past decade. nores the prejudice of homosexuality in Sivan and they feel proud to witness his world in pride.” Others also agreed: “We When asked why he chose to come to society. Instead of implicitly or abstract- success. One fan shared his experience really need such artists in our time.” • BCA, Dr. Nelson replied that it was simply because Ms. Washburne works here. The previously-hired physics teacher was not able to come to BCA, and Dr. Nelson only received this offer at the beginning of September. Dr. Nelson has an interesting story. | Photo Credit: Dr.Nelson In order to get a Chinese work visa, Dr. Nelson firstly had to prove that he about how he dealt with the problem topics, such as the story of how he got has no criminal records, so he had to of having a Physics class with no real his braids. When asked about this, Dr. get a background check from the FBI, a Physics teacher to substitute for him in Nelson grinned and answered: “When I police agency in the U.S. This process September, Dr. Nelson admitted that was a low-level doctor, my boss had this included putting in an application, it was indeed a problem. However, he rule of ‘keeping short hair’ for low-level getting fingerprints taken, and many managed by writing the PowerPoints for doctors like me, and I didn’t like the rule other steps in between. The results then all the lectures, prepared assignments, at all. So when I became a higher-level had to be sent to the Chinese embassy to and his classes were taught by other doctor, the first thing I did was to get be notarized. Undoubtedly, the process teachers (such as Mr. Kubin, Mr. Nashi, my hair into these braids.” Still smiling, was extremely time-consuming and was Ms. Washburne and Ms. Najam). Now Dr. Nelson then added, “But the story the reason behind his delayed return to that he is here, Dr. Nelson reassures us is not for students, because you should China. that there is no need to worry about always obey the rules.” • Dr. Nelson’s degree is in Phy-wsics, Physics classes. with a minor in Chemistry, and he also Besides talking about his visa has a medical degree. When asked application, we also discussed other

Portrait of Troye Sivan. | Photo Credit: Kugou - Page 20 - - Page 21 - ENTERTAINMENT To all BCAers, Watch it twice: The Wild Goose Lake (2019) By Ruby Gao | Reporter

What would you do if you are become increasingly afraid of being to connect them together. It made the wanted by the police and there is a re- involved in Zhou’s life. Despite his re- audience feel confused. Therefore, al- ward of 3,000, 000 yuan on your suc- quest, she refuses to take the risk. As a though the story is well-completed, the cessful capture? Would you choose to result, Zhou asks a prostitute, Aiai, for overall theme is a little fuzzy. The more ask your family to turn you in for a for- help. Although the men around Aiai confused audiences feel about an art- tune or flee as far as you can? (including her brother) dominate her work, the less attachment they have to At the end of 2019, a hyper-stylish choices and dignity, she has is clearly it. As a fan of the director Yinan Diao, manhunt film, The Wild Goose Lake, set on being motivated by money rather my cousin insisted that “Some films was released in China. The director, than sympathy or love. are very provoking. However, they are Yinan Diao, is a master at aesthetici- “Aiai, you have to turn me in. The definitely not easy to understand the zation of violence, similar to Quentin reward can go to my wife. Should I trust first time, especially for audiences who Tarantino’s style. The director is so you?” asks Zhou. On the hidden shores are not familiar with the director. Di- skillful at using colors and symbols that of The Wild Goose Lake, two lost peo- rector Diao tells the story in his unique every shot looks like an extraordinary ple gamble in matters of money, safety filming language.” painting. and love, but only one of them gives out After watching this film again, I In the film, there are many con- the most valuable thing: trust. If you strongly recommend it to you. Despite flicts between gangs and the police, all want to know what happens next, go some flaws in the plot, The Wild Goose set in a lawless place. Gang leader Zhou and check out this film. Lake is worth watching. I enjoyed its has committed a felony and wants his In my honest opinion, after watch- thought-provoking themes and the wife to report him in order to receive ing the film for the first time, I think lighting techniques used throughout the money reward. His wife is charac- the director was too ambitious in filling the film. • terized as a vulnerable female who has the story with subplots and he struggled

Have a rock and roll holiday! Rock and Roll Holiday| Photo Credit: Lily Wang The Wild Goose Lake poster | Photo Credit: Umbrella Entertainment Comic by Lily Wang --SAPC - Page 22 - - Page 23 - Editor-in-Chief Aragorn Xu Layout Editors Roxana Wang Lucia Xu Tiffany Dai Ginny Yan Evelyn Fan Reporters Jason Zhang Angela Li Lilian Cheng Antony Zhou Lanne Li Olivia Feng Belle Liu Ruby Gao Comic Artists & Melody Ru Agatha Hu Photographers Tommy Yu Nina Shangguan Rachel Cheng Joy Tang Barry Jiang Sponsor Teachers Joanna Wang Levana Wang Ms. Ince Lily Wang Lily Wang Ms. Lowe

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