INSIDE THIS ISSUE! Heritage Day Celebration Kicks Off 160th Anniversary Open House Attracts Prospective Students International Students Settle Into Life at NDA What is the most creative Halloween costume you have ever worn? NEWS Program Warns Students, Parents on Dangers of Drinking and Driving Seniors Attend College Fairs Decision Time: Romney vs. Obama CAMPUS LIFE NDA Welcomes New Faculty & Staff Athletic Booster Club Selling Christmas Wreaths Co-Curricular Corner ‘Coming Up’ Calendar ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT ‘Jingle Ball’ Promises to be Best Ever Tina Fey and Amy Poehler to Host Golden Globes Fideles Society Reception Thanks Donors Book Review: Looking for Alaska SPORTS Player Profile:Julie Coen ‘13 Race to Championships is on for Fall Athletes Hockey Lockout Continues Golf Coach Inducted into Hall of Fame STUDENT LIFE Point-Counterpoint: Block Schedule Love for the Long Block ------> The ‘Too Long’ Long Block Everyday Hero: Sophomore Grace LeBlanc Creates ‘Friends for a Change’ Club Academy Survival: College Craziness FEATURES As Veterans Day Approaches, a Veteran Remembers Fall in Love With Fall Coffee Film Review: Halloweentown Q&A With Pauline Chen OPINION Amandah Please: On the Scarcity of Time The Girl In The Green Kilt The Medallion NDA’s News Source

Notre Dame Academy October 2012

Heritage Day Celebration Kicks Off 160th Anniversary What is the most Victoria Mulkern ‘14 creative Halloween On Friday, October 5th, the NDA their ‘three words’ segment. exchange students. As a symbol of community gathered together to kick Later, students were given time their entry into the NDA community, costume you have off the school’s 160th anniversary to take pictures with friends, play on the new members were presented during the annual Heritage Day the inflatable slides, and continue the with the ‘Our Lady of Hingham’ ever worn? festivities. Student Council members tradition of face paint wars among medals. Jill Larrow ‘14 planned the day’s program, which the four different grades. During The exciting and fun-filled day included games, food, and fun. this time, bagels and other breakfast was capped off by an exceptional To kick off the historic day, refreshments were distributed by talent show. A total of thirteen students, faculty, staff, and other parents. acts, representing all four grades, members of the community gathered Next, the festivities moved to the performed a variety of talents, on the front field in their color-coded annual outdoor liturgy during which including singing, dancing, attire to form a human “160” sign. the school community welcomed all tumbling, and playing musical This colorful and vibrant image of the new freshmen, transfer, and instruments. All the performers has since did an incredible been featured job, making this on boston. year’s talent com, and show one of administrators the best ever! “The Sun-Drop Girl.” have also Overall, this f o r w a r d e d year’s Heritage -Sam Morley ‘15 the picture to Day festivities ABC’s Good were a huge M o r n i n g success, and will America, with be difficult for the hope that it future years to will appear on top!

Open House Attracts Prospective International “Little Bo Peep.” Students Students Settle -Cece Lewis ‘14 Elizabeth Hanlon ‘16 Into Life at NDA In October, NDA hosted one the eigth graders, and will be apart Caroline McCormack ‘15 of the annual Open House events. of their decision to come here. They This event welcomes all current too, can remember listening to the eigth grade students to come and freshman when they came last year. This year, NDA welcomes six take a tour of the school. This tour From where I was in the gym, I Chinese exchange students to greatly influences all aspiring NDA could hear the halls buzzing with our school community. These freshman to come and spend their curious students and parents alike. students consist of a mix of juniors high school years here. In fact, They all seemed so eager to ask and sophomores, and come from freshman Caroline Hocking can questions and find out more of what different parts of China. They recall when she came to visit the NDA has to offer. Several times, I will be with us throughout the school just one year ago. She said even had to give directions to where remainder of high school, and have that when she came and saw all the the athletic facilities were located. already begun to settle nicely into “Angelica from The Rugrats.” girls, she was very excited to think A lot of girls seemed interested in the life of an NDA student. The that that could be her next year. trying for a sport, but weren’t sure six students–Lucy, Sonia, Victoria, -Jill Aruda ‘13 When asked what it was like to be if they would make the team. I Qianping, Paulina, and Judy—are part of such a big event for NDA, she strongly suggested that they try out staying with families who very responded, “It was very exciting to for a freshman team, which is a great generously opened up their homes see what new freshman might come way to meet friends. for between two and three years in next year.” The girls were also quite as a home away from home. Our The attendance for the most interested in NDA’s classes and exchange students are finding their recent Open House was shocking to teachers. I mentioned that my Aunt way around school and getting a lot of the students who helped with Elizabeth had Mrs. Pratt, and to this involved with a variety of activities the event. “It was a lot more people day, her typing skills are absolutely at NDA. Qianping is doing the than expected,” said Emily Lorimer incredible. They were all amazed fall musical, Victoria is playing ‘16, who was able to talk to some when they heard that a teacher that the piano at the NHS induction of the eigtth graders. The biggest has been at NDA for more than ceremony, and Lucy is on the math question they seemed to have, she twenty years could still teach at such team. By interweaving themselves says, was about the transition to a high level. into the school community, they are finding their own NDA spirit. NDA. This made her recall her own Overall, the Open House seemed Moreover, they and their house “The Six Flags guy.” transition, and she reassured them to be very successful. To cap it families are building strong bonds that they would get through it. Both all off, everyone enjoyed NDA’s -Amanda Stickney ‘13 Caroline and Emily know that their to last a lifetime. signature cookies before departing (continued on page 7) own stories about coming to NDA campus. and meeting new friends stays with

-3- NEWS Program Warns Students, Parents on Decision Time: Dangers of Drinking and Driving Viktoria Foley ‘14 Romney vs. Obama Did you know that when why we are here tonight.” Madeline Backburn ‘14 adolescents enter eighth grade, Campbell began his presentation 37% of them have already had their with a virtual presentation titled, “Be first alcoholic beverage? At least a parent, not a pal.” He emphasized 1,700 college students die each that if underage people host a party year resulting from alcohol abuse, and alcohol is consumed by minors, The anticipated date is finally in earns the most votes in the Electoral and one child dies every hour of the they are subjecting both themselves sight! On November 6, 2012, the College, therefore, is chosen for the weekend from the use and abuse of and their parents to criminal huddled masses flood into the voting presidency. drugs and alcohol. On the evenings punishment. Campbell told an booths to select their candidate for According to recent polls, Obama of Thursday, September 27 and eye-opening story of a boy named president. Although most of us aren’t is expected to obtain a 36-point lead Tuesday, October 2, juniors and Brendan Khernam, who hosted a eligible to vote yet, after polling Ms. against Romney in the Electoral seniors gathered in the auditorium party while his parents were not Hoy’s two A.P U.S History classes College. These statistics are based with their parents and guardians home. Khernam’s friend, Billy, got (which amass to approximately off of time-sensitive projections, thus to listen to a presentation about drunk and decided to drive home. As twenty girls) on which candidate lacking complete certainty. There are drugs and alcohol, presented by a result of his reckless decision, the they would like to see in the Oval several “swing” states (whose fickle Attorney Tim Cruise and Attorney life of a 17-year-old pedestrian was Office, the overwhelming majority nature vexes anxious statisticians Rich Campbell. This presentation lost, and his 16-year-old girlfriend of girls supported Mitt Romney; every year). These states, including informed parents and students about suffered traumatic brain injury. Obama garnered only twenty-four Arizona and Indiana, demonstrate the dangers of alcohol and drug Campbell told many more percent of the votes, and the smallest leaning support for Mitt Romney, abuse. Administration initiated this heart wrenching stories, such as minority felt ambivalent about their while states like Pennsylvania and program for the first time this year. that of 17-year-old Taylor Meyer. favorite presidential-hopeful. New Hampshire have decided to All juniors and seniors were required Taylor died from intoxication after Lucky for Obama, my classmates maintain a mysterious allure. to attend this program if they plan to attending the homecoming football - however bright and jovial they In my eyes, one of the most attend Cotillion or Prom. game. She attended a party in the may be - will not be electing the maddening complaints against our Tim Cruise, the Official Chief of woods with her friends, and drowned next president. As a matter of fact, government is that the Electoral Law Enforcement, began his speech in the nearby marsh. Her body our vote is not the decisive element Congress is robbing America of the by stating, “It is imperative to talk was found three days later. After in choosing a president. Members spirit of Democracy, and that one about these issues with our children.” hearing this tragic story, audience of the Electoral College hold the person’s vote holds little meaning. With a strong voice of reason, members fell silent. “One decision real responsibility of electing the Our first President and prominent Attorney Cruise continued to inform can change everything in the blink president. The Electoral College is founding father, George Washington, his audience with statistics about the of an eye. The takeaway from this a body of delegates representing the was horrified by the concept of use and abuse of drugs and alcohol. presentation,” said Campbell, “is people of each state. The number a “mobocracy” in which power Cruise spoke about the dangers and that the laws apply to everyone. If a of delegates is proportional to the would be left solely to the frothing, consequences of parties for both person furnishes alcohol, then they state’s population, explaining why gnashing masses. The United States parents and kids. He explained “civil could go to jail, even if something California has 55 electoral votes, was founded on the principle that liability” and “social host liability”: bad does not happen.” while Delaware only has three. each man-and once they came to if an underage person hosts a party at After the meeting, I had a chance Delegates win their right to vote for their home, and alcohol is consumed their senses, woman-shares the to sit down with one of the lucky the candidate of their choice based equal responsibility to support the by underage guests, the parents listeners. Alexandra Balcom ‘14 off the votes made by their state’s of the host can face a minimum fair, legislative form of government. comments, “The meeting was long, population (i.e. if Obama had more Our country was founded on ideals, punishment of a $500 fine and a but worth every minute. I think it votes than Romney in California, maximum punishment of one year and was hypothesized by ingenious made parents and students realize then the democratic delegates of in jail. “It is incredibly important political scientists. In these few the dangers and consequences of California would earn the right that we look out for each other,” precious weeks before the election, underage drinking.” make 55 votes for the candidate of said Cruise. “All too often, we see advocate until your voice is hoarse This presentation had a great the choice, while the Republican children in court and the cases are and your knees are weak. Together, impact on the thoughts of everyone delegates would not have access to endless.” Before handing over the Republican or Democrat, we can in the audience, and will aid students microphone to Attorney Campbell, a single vote). The candidate who win this election! and parents alike in making the right Cruise commented, “Bad decisions decisions in the future. have bad consequences, and that’s Seniors Attend College Fairs Nicole Newman ‘16

College fairs are an important across the country Fairfield University, that should be taken advantage of. aspect in the decision-making to give potential N o r t h e a s t e r n We wish the best of luck to all of our process for juniors and seniors. NDA students an insight on University, Bentley current seniors as they go through was privileged to host two college what their college is University, Loyola this stressful and exciting process! fairs already, in our gym. School about. After attending University, University representatives came from both in- the fair, some students of San Diego, state institutions and from schools became interested in and the always colleges they never sunny University thought about, or Some of the colleges represented of Southern may reconnect with at the fair. California. a certain college that Guidance and they feel is one of their top choices. maintenance staff work hard to Either way, attending a fair is a put together these exciting events. useful way of narrowing down or In addition to the college fairs, expanding your choices. representatives will be on site to About 150 schools are represented give individual interviews later in the fall fairs, and about 100 attend in the year. This is an essential Student ambassadors welcome college Students and college representatives prepare in the spring. Recent colleges that requirement for many college for the fair. representatives. visited include Providence, College, applications and an opportunity

-4- CAMPUS LIFE NDA Welcomes New Faculty & Staff “The Medallion” extends a warm welcome to the Co-Curricular Corner following new faculty and staff members: Teens Acting for Social Change (T.A.S.C.) will meet on Wednesday, November 7th from 2:30 - 3:00 in Ms. Carter’s Ms. Shedlock (English) room (226). Please join us as we educate ourselves on the topics of drugs and alcohol. New members are always welcome! Ms. Shedlock joins NDA after several years of teaching experience Science Club will meet on Wednesday, November 7th from in the Harwich school district. 2:30 - 3:30 in Mrs. Muller’s room (333). Come for a fun-filled There, she taught a number of scavenger hunt around our campus! Prizes will be awarded English courses at varied academic and snacks provided. levels. Ms. Shedlock is looking forward to being at NDA and Tech Club meets every Monday after school in the Auditorium teaching young women, which is from 3:00 -5:00. Are you a ninja? Prove yourself worthy! what drew her to our school. Anime Club will be meeting every Friday in room 329 from 2:30 - 3:30. Are you interested in Japanese art and pop culture? Join the Anime Club! New members are always Ms. Merkel (World Language) welcome. Ms. Merkel is a native speaker of Future Helpers and Healers Club is bringing in a suprise Mandarin Chinese. She is looking guest speaker from the medical field to discuss future forward to educating young women careers as a doctor or nurse. All members are welcome to and becoming an integral part of come Wednesday, November 7th at 2:30. Snacks will be the development of our Chinese provided. For more questions, see Ms. Bowen. language program. Knitting and Quilting Club will be meeting November 5th at 2:30. Come help to knit and quilt for those in need! All students and faculty are welcome.

Mr. Pinabell (Director of Annual Giving) Mr. Pinabell is a Boston native and an avid Boston sports fan. He Coming is a product of Catholic school education and Catholic school work experience, most recently working Up... at Immaculate High School in Wednesday, October 31 Halloween; Gymnastics & Connecticut. Indoor Track Preseason Meetings Thursday, November 1 Mock Electrions; First-Term Grades Close; Open House Ms. Simes (Campus Ministry) Sunday, November 4 Mother Daughter Event Ms. Simes is a native of California. Monday, November 5 Basketball Preseason Meeting She has completed her Masters Tuesday, November 6 Ice Hockey & Alpine Ski Meetings Degree in Pastoral Ministry at Boston College, and is looking Wednesday, November 7 Report Cards Distributed forward to bringing her love Thursday, November 8 Class Meetings for ministry to NDA in order to Friday, November 9 Cotillion strengthen our Campus Ministry program. Monday, November 12 No School (Veteran’s Day) Tuesday, November 13 Dance Team Preseason Meeting Friday, November 16 No School; Ignatian Teach-In Trip to Washington, D.C. Ms. Bowen (School Nurse) Monday, November 19 Winter Cheerleading Presason Ms. Bowen joins us with significant Meeting; Meet the Coaches Night for experience in the Adolescent Health Winter Sports Clinic at Children’s Hospital. She also has a degree in Nutrition. Tuesday, November 20 Thanksgiving Liturgy Ms. Bowen is excited to bring her Wednesday, November 21 - Sunday, November 25 background and experience to NDA Thanksgiving Break in order to support the growth of Monday, November 26 Winter Try-Outs Begin our young women. Friday, November 30 B.C. High Junior/Senior Dance

Athletic Booster Club Selling Christmas Wreaths

The Booster Club is selling Christmas wreaths as a fundraising event for the upcoming holiday season. They will be 16 inch double-sided balsam fir wreaths decorated in a traditional or seashell theme for $30. We will also be selling them undecorated for $12 for those who choose to decorate themselves. They will be on display at the bookstore, at the Mother/Daughter Liturgy on November 4, and at the winter ‘Meet the Coaches’ night on November 19. You may print out the order form located in the Athletic page of the portal, or copies will be available in the school store. Completed forms can be submitted to the main office along with the check made out to Boosters.

-5- ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Fideles Society Reception Book Review: Looking for Thanks Donors Alaska Gabrielle Corner ‘13 Mollie O’Leary ‘13

Looking for Alaska starts out with an archetypal teenage boy, an outcast who transfers from his high school in Florida to a boarding school in Alabama. The book seems to have a On October 3, approximately at NDA as giving her an open heart predictable storyline: the dorky outcast, Miles, fifty donors attended NDA’s Fideles and preparing her to take risks. She would make great friends at his new school and be transformed into a Society Reception. Any person is truly an inspiration. worldlier, less dorky teenager. In a sense, this does happen, but not at all in who donates more than $1,000 to Sister Barbara updated the the way that one might think it would. the school annually is part of this donors with the current additions Miles Halter’s life is pretty uneventful before enrolling at Culver Society, which is comprised of to our life at NDA, as well as those Creek Preparatory School. He hopes that by changing schools he can to alumnae, current parents, members that are in the ‘dream phase’. She change his drab lifestyle. Miles quells his mother’s fears about his going to of the Board of Directors, Sisters even joked how things have a a boarding school by quoting the final words of a poet, Francois Rabelais: of Notre Dame, and past parents. tendency to grow quickly on our “I go to seek a Great Perhaps.” Miles is going to Culver Creek to find a During the evening, the guests hear campus, referring specifically to Great Perhaps or as I took it, to find a better, more adventurous life that speeches from key members of our Neuroscience’s transition from a may or may not exist. Miles doubts whether or not he will have any luck community: a current student, an club to a minor and wondering how in his search until he meets the novel’s namesake: Alaska Young. She is an alumna, and Sister Barbara. Ultimate Frisbee, Sign Language eccentric, beautiful, impulsive prankster who makes Miles realize that high As the student speaker this year, Club, and other clubs will develop school can actually be fun. it was difficult to find one thing to in the next few years. Even though I Alaska is also trying to find something, but unlike Miles, she is specifically thank the donors for knew about all the great things that not looking for a Great Perhaps. Alaska is searching for the answer to a because during my four years, so we have been blessed to receive this question Simon Bolivar posed on his deathbed: “How will I ever get out of many improvements have been past year, hearing each and every this labyrinth?” Before Alaska can even begin to answer this question, she made. I mentioned the windows and one of them discussed together must first figure out what labyrinth Bolivar is talking about. Although the the desks but I focused on the iPads, made the impact even stronger. book seems to revolve around the fun pranks Miles pulls with his friends and which I am sure many students can The director of communications, his growing love for the unavailable Alaska, the plot also hinges on whether agree are a wonderful addition to our Kate Miller ’97, says, “Each year Alaska finds the answer to Bolivar’s evasive question. classrooms. we host this event to say, ‘Thank The author of the book, John Green, keeps the tone light and witty There is no other way to describe You!’ to NDA’s donors. Their with Miles’ self-deprecating humor, but still gives the book a the alumna speaker than remarkable. gifts impact every girl here, every surprising amount of depth by showing the reader the impact Kate Kelley ’02 played basketball for day, and we are grateful to them of friendship, love, and loss.Alaska and all of the other friends NDA and Bentley, and then continued for their support. To see so many that Miles makes at the Creek really do influence and change to play professionally in Ireland. people in the room who believe him. He learns how to stomach vinegary wine and smoke When she traveled to Rwanda, she in NDA and all of the girls here is cigarettes, but he also learns how to forgive and come to was struck by the extreme lack of a very powerful!” As a student who terms with the fact that some questions are unanswerable. youth sports program that she started has attended the event for two years Although Miles gains a great deal from his first year at one (which you can learn more and received the benefits of their boarding school, he also loses a lot and learning to deal about at www.ubumwebasketball. donations for four years, I could not with that loss ends up transforming him the most. org). Kate credited her experience agree more.

Tina Fey and Amy Poehler to Host Golden Globes Anna Ratto ‘13 Women are the funniest. Well, it seems that way, Rock. Despite not having the highest ratings on TV, these shows continue to based on the trend in TV. Just recently, it was announced be strong pieces of comedy, showing of the ladies’ comedic skill. With that, that Tina Fey and Amy Poehler will be co-hosting the they are both quite promising for 2013 Golden Globe Awards this winter. Entertainment the Golden Globes. Weekly writes that this is the first time there will be a female hosting the The Golden Globes is not the Golden Globes without a male by her side. only awards show that typically Previous male hosts of the show have not quite been up to par. For the has a male host. The Oscars tends past two years, Ricky Gervais has been the host of the awards show. After to have male hosts, and when Jane three years of hosting, he was not chosen again, probably for his edgy humor Lynch hosted the Emmy Awards and criticisms of audience members. The past couple of years there have in 2011, she was only the third been no standout male hosts in any awards show. Perhaps Fey and Poehler woman to ever host them alone, will prove themselves as standout acts. as reported by Yahoo. Women additionally tend to be the typical Fey and Poehler have already proven they work well together. The two Poehler & Fey will host this audience of awards shows, so starred in Baby Mama, both acted in Fey’s Mean Girls, and of course, they year’s Golden Globes Awards perhaps other awards shows will have worked together on Saturday Night Live many times. Each woman catch on to the Golden Globes. continuously proves her comedic side on her own NBC comedy show. There are many funny female actors, comedians, and talk show hosts Poehler stars in Parks and Recreation, and Fey stars in and writes for 30 around, and someday they may be hosting awards shows by themselves. ‘Jingle Ball’ Promises to be Best Ever Sydney Hajjar ’13 As most people know, Kiss 108 This year’s concert will feature nine Wanted, Ed Sheeran, Cher Lloyd, sponsors a huge concert every acts, composed of some well-known and (of course) Justin Bieber. This is winter, known as the Jingle Ball. artists and some newcomers. The one of the biggest line-ups in Jingle This year, it will be bigger than ever! Jingle Ball, which will take place Ball history. Tickets for the concert The concert has been moved from its December 6th, will feature artsists went on sale October 25th and sold former home, at Lowell’s Tsongas such as Train, Karmin, Alex Clare, out instantly. To get tickets to this Arena, to Boston’s TD Garden. Timeflies, Bridgit Mendler, The big event, make sure to listen to Kiss 108 to win!

-6- SPORTS Race to Championships Hockey Lockout Continues is on for Fall Athletes Erin Fitzgerald ‘14 Meg Ayers ‘13 and Mariel Teague ‘13 Hockey fans everywhere are team in the first place, they should hanging up their skates and jerseys be entitled to more of the money and settling for football as the NHL than the players. Yet the players are Lockout drags on. The Lockout is an making the argument that they are the The Cougars on the Varsity Liz Costantino ’15 and Taylor argument between the players and ones that the fans pay to see; the ones Volleyball team are making a run for Kennedy ‘14. Julia Conte ’14, the owners of the league. During whose jerseys the fans proudly flaunt. gold this year. With five experienced Taylor-Ann Greenwood ’14 and this time, no hockey is played. An issue just as important is the seniors on the squad, the team is Grace Nedeau ’16 also had great Many people are blaming the NHL debate over the entry-level contract, ready for whatever comes at them. runs. Commissioner, Gary Bettman, for the which is the agreement stating that Natalia Maccarone ’13, Randi The Swim & Dive team had huge problem. Bettman, players in their Whitham ’13, Meg Ayers ’13, Kate success against Fontbonne in a 97- who has been the first three years O’Leary ’13 and Amanda Hajjar 59 match-up! Sectional Qualifiers C o m m i s s i o n e r of play cannot ’13 are leading their team with since 1993, is in make more excellence. Although they recently charge of leading than $925,000. lost a tight game (2-3) to Canton the negotiations The players are at the Dig Pink for Breast Cancer between the players perfectly happy fundraiser, the team was able to and the owners with the current raise about $1,400 in donations. Stay of the teams. The standings of the tuned to see how the girls do against negotiations are contact, but the rival Barnstable in the next coming not going well, as owners wish match. the owners have to extend the Field hockey had one of its best barred the players contract to the games of 2012 at home against The Swim team prepares from lacing up first five years of Milton. This was the second time for a meet their skates for the play, rather than that the two teams had faced each 2012-2013 season. the first three. other this year (the first encounter were Katie Golden ’14 and Mia Essentially, the argument all comes Another time based argument is over resulting in a 1-0 loss). The Cougars Cogliano ’14. The following down to money. the players becoming unrestricted free redeemed themselves with a 2-0 swimmers achieved personal A main issue being disputed agents, or players who can sign with victory. Goals were scored by Katie best times: Erin Morrissey ’16, is the salary cap for teams. The any team when their contract expires. McNamara ’13 and Mariel Teague Michelle Feely ’14, Morgan Scott salary cap is the maximum amount The current rule is that after seven ’13. After falling to Scituate 4-1, the ’16, Carolina Gosalvez ’16, Megan of money each team can spend on years of playing in the NHL a player team went on to beat Marshfield 1-0, Dromey ’16, Isabella Walko’14, all its players. The league set a limit earns the status of an unrestricted pushing them one step closer to the Devin Cronin ’16, Meghan Fox last year of $70.4 million to spend agent. The owners are now saying MIAA Tournament! NDA’s game- ’16 and Kylie MacDonald ’15. on the whole team. This limit is set that they want this time to be pushed changing goal was scored by Julia An earlier meet against Westwood by Bettman, but both the players and up to ten years. This issue is again Simmons ‘13. Field hockey has had much closer results, with NDA owners believe it should be a greater over money. Unrestricted free agents three upcoming games left in this coming out on top. The following amount. Another money related tend to earn a higher salary because season. swimmers achieved personal best problem is the players’ share in a team needs to pay more to keep the The Aces’ hard work is paying times: Maddie Tesauro ’15, Sarah hockey related revenue, or the money player, as they now have the right to off! The Varsity Soccer team had a Varney ’13, Kylie MacDonald ’15, made from selling team merchandise, sign with any team. 2-0 win over Barnstable. Both goals Michelle Feely ’14, Kayla Burgess television ads, and other types of As the players, owners, and were scored off of cross assists from ’14, Mia Cogliano ’14, Sarah advertising. During the 2012 season Gary Bettman continue to argue Amelia Brown ’13, and headed in Jaklitsch ’13, Jenny Sullivan ’14. the players received 57% of the over money, the faithful hockey fans by Elissa Dukeshire ’15. Dukeshire Although competitions haven’t revenue earned. This year, however, anxiously await the return of their also played a tremendous defensive kicked off yet, our Dance team put the owners insist that that percentage teams to the ice. While the leagues game alongside Brooke Morley ’13. on quite the show at the Heritage be reduced to 46%. The owners feel argue, the players themselves are Holding their strong reputation, Day Talent Show. Look for the girls that since they orchestrate much of playing hockey overseas in Europe Varsity Cross Country took home at winter basketball games and keep the advertising and organize the and hoping this disagreement is another win against Brockton (23- up with their competition record! resolved soon. 35). The cougars were led by

Player Profile Golf Coach Inducted into Meg Ayers ‘13 and Mariel Teague ‘13 Hall of Fame Julie Coen ‘13 Congratulations to Mr. Hometown: Kingston David Gianferente, Head Sport: Swimming Best races: 100 & 200 Coach of NDA’s Varsity Golf Backstroke Pre-race ritual: “I bless team, for being inducted myself before every race.” Pre-race snack: Saltines into the 2012 Sports Hall of & peanut butter Fame at Pfeiffer University, Favorite TV Show: The Hills his alma mater. Pets: A pug named Bug and a labrador retriever Coach Gianferente named Sienna

-7- STUDENT LIFE

Block Schedule Love for the Long Block The ‘Too Long’ Long Block Elizabeth Tevnan ‘14 Sarah Jaklitsch ‘13 Everyone is finally settling down more time to fully understand the This year, NDA decided to try awkward and rushed since, as an into the new school year and the new material they are getting taught. out a new block schedule system, upperclassman, I am in the middle of schedule. There is a lot of talk about On my first block day I had with the hope that it will foster more a split class. On a normal day, I use the new long block schedule. Is it English, and in class I was told to classroom time. However, I have to break as a time to have a quick snack. effective? Does everyone like it? Is write an in-class essay. Like any say that I am not overly thrilled with However, with the new schedule, it worth it? other student, I get very stressed the new schedule. Personally, I enjoy there is no opportunity for me to There is no question in my mind for in-class essays. I never think the change of scenery while switching appease my ever-hungry stomach. that the block schedule on days seven I am going to have enough time to to class every forty minutes. Waving Perhaps I am the only one who finds and eight are the highlight of my process all of my thoughts. With hello to my friends, teammates, and it difficult to focus without food for eight-day schedule. Four 85-minute a longer class period I was able to teachers in the hallways is one of my 213 minutes. classes are ten times better than eight write a well thought out essay on The favorite parts of the day. However, Many people I talk to seem to feel 40-minute classes. Jungle (every junior’s dream). having four 85 minute blocks takes that the major perk of block days is In my opinion, the block schedule I think that having a long block away much of this time. I find it the fact that we are given two nights is amazing. Many people that I have period once a cycle will benefit difficult to stay on task throughout to complete homework for eight talked to about it have said they students’ grades. When given a test the entire block, especially on day classes. However in my experience, like it very much as well. The only to take during class with twice the eight, when I have three hours of I have been more stressed out over negative feedback that I have heard amount of time usually given to us, math in the morning. A quick change homework and tests because of the was from some science teachers. it will allow students to thoroughly in classes allows me to take a walk block schedule. It is a perfect excuse Last year, all of the science teachers think about their answers and, in and redirect the flow of blood back for teachers to give us projects and would get to have an 85-minute return, they will receive a better to my brain, allowing me to stay essays to be due in our next class. I class once a cycle for a lab period. grade. Also having long blocks focused for a longer period of time. have also found that block days have Now that all of the classes get to gives students more time to do their Although technically we have been deemed a perfect time to give have a long block period some of the homework and study for tests, since more in-class time during block an in-class essay. Personally, I do science teachers do not feel that the the major courses are split into two days, it seems to me that I am less not enjoy starting Monday mornings long block is as much of a privilege days. productive. After skipping a day in with an 85 minute essay comparing as it used to be. Although I am in a classroom a certain subject, especially math Madame Bovary and The Awakening. So what is it like in 85-minute for a longer period of time, my day and the languages, I find that I am With the extended periods teachers classes? goes by much quicker. Having more likely to forget the lesson expect higher quality writing and longer periods also allows me to when we meet again. Having a class may weigh the essays more than a In my experience, teachers and every day helps me sharpen my forty minute essay. students have seemed less stressed concentrate on a particular subject for longer periods of time. academic skills. It is easier for my I believe that the block schedule during long block periods. Teachers brain to be continually processing are not rushing to get a lesson taught I am very happy for this new allows for a great learning the information than to take a day’s experience, and I know of many and students are not getting rushed addition to our schedules, and I vacation. I also believe that it is to understand a large amount of am glad administration made the fervent supporters. However, it harder for a teacher to hold the class’s just is not the match for me. I hope information in a short period of time. decision to do this. Hopefully, it will attention without straying off topic. With the eighty five minutes teachers be beneficial in the long run. that it will turn out beneficial in the can spend more time on teaching I believe that my stomach is the future. And since I seem to be in the their lessons and students will have largest opponent of the block days. minority with my less-than-zealous Having two and a half 85 minute love for block days, I will try my best classes in the morning makes the as a senior to embrace them and be beacon of lunch seem so far away. thankful it is only for one more year. Academy Survival 101 And when it finally arrives, I feel COLLEGE CRAZINESS! Kayla Valente ’13 Everyday Hero: The Class of 2013 began our college search over a year ago, and although we still have a lot to do, the Sophomore Grace LeBlanc Creates end is in sight. It has taken quite a few steps to get us to this point in the process. In looking around the ‘Friends for a Change’ Club room at every college fair, more often than not, I have Sally Stover ‘15 been able to relate to anxious faces I see walking by me. I can almost hear their inner voices screaming, Grace LeBlanc is an average sophomore at Notre Dame Academy looking “What am I supposed to do? How am I supposed to to make a difference. She created Friends for a Change, a club aimed at convince a person that I’ve never even met to accept helping kids and adults with disabilities. Although the club is still “under me into their school?” Yet, somehow I’m still not construction”, the idea and purpose is present. Grace hopes to meet either exactly sure how it works – each girl always ends up introducing herself once or twice a month and the club will most likely be traveling to Cardinal Cushing to play, interact, and just talk to disabled children and adults. The with confidence and poise upon reaching the next admissions counselor and thinking up multiple intelligent questions to ask. The stuttering, clammy aim is to have the club up and running by the beginning of next year. hands, and awkward eye contact that everyone seems to anticipate never When asked what her goal for the club is, Grace explained it was “to really happen. help kids and adults with disabilities to feel like everyone else does and to After visiting dozens of colleges and attending multiple info sessions, most treat them like we would treat each other and to let them have fun and relax of the seniors have an idea of what type of school they hope to attend. Not for a little bit.” The fundamental goal of this club is simple but extremely until we read hundreds of emails from universities we never knew existed important. were we able to begin to finalize the list of schools to which we will apply. Grace exemplifies the definition of an everyday hero by giving up her The feeling of exhilaration in receiving excessive amounts of mail from time and putting her wholehearted effort into this club for the benefit of colleges faded after only a few short weeks. Hopefully those feelings will others. She realized how fun and important Gym Buddies was to her in soon return as a rush of excitement when we begin to see large envelopes that Milton and through her hard work she is enabling Notre Dame students to contain letters starting with, “Congratulations!” As for now, my Naviance do the same. Grace is a great example of how just one person can make a account is checked more often than my Twitter, and I upload more to the huge difference and inspire others to do the same. So, be on the lookout for Common App than I do to Instagram. With deadlines, such as November 1, news on this club in the spring! If you know someone who is interested in fast approaching, the NDA seniors are making sure that every minute counts. helping Grace make this possible, encourage them to speak up!

-8- FEATURES (“International” continued from page 1) As Veterans Day Approaches, Of course, there are few they wish were part of American differences between a high school life, they have discovered aspects of a Veteran Remembers experience in China and one at American life that they do not have Grace Yotts ‘16 NDA. In some schools in China, in China, such as high school dances, homework is assigned very study periods, and a better uniform As Veterans Day approaches, I decided to take time to talk with my differently, with assignments due here than the particular uniform grandfather about his experience in the army. My grandfather, Daniel the next month rather than the next worn in China. Michael Yotts, enlisted in the Korean War at the age of seventeen. At the day. The Chinese students are more Kim Cahill ’15, Lucy’s house time, he was just a regular boy from South Boston with the hopes of becoming reserved and formal then students in sister, says that she really likes a paratrooper, he says. The day he left home, he took a bus to Fort Docks, America. In China, examinations having Lucy here, and it isn’t as big New Jersey for basic training. His experience there was grueling, he says, are very important, and can have a of an adjustment as she thought that but he got through it with pure persistence and determination. After his boot substantial impact on your future. it would be. Kim and the Cahill’s camp experience, my grandfather traveled to Fort Eustace to attend military However, despite the differences, want to take Lucy to Washington school. There, days seemed endless on long boat rides and bus rides, he the students feel optimistic about the D.C., California, the Aquarium, remembers. My grandfather passed these long days by writing letters home, education system here in America. Derby Street, New York City, or going to the movies with friends. Although my grandfather didn’t see Even with lots to do at school, it Trick or Treating, to Christmas & combat, he still came out of this experience as a completely new person, he is easy to miss some favorite things Thanksgiving celebrations, as well says. He got an education that he wouldn’t have otherwise gotten, and he from home. For Lucy, favorite as to an Easter egg hunt! They have became a more mature young man. My grandfather’s army experience may things to do in China included already taken her apple picking, to not be like those of other veterans, but he is still a hero to me and my family. spending time with her cousin, going Canobie Lake Park, and into Boston. I thanked my grandfather for his efforts, so make sure to thank a veteran this shopping, and playing badminton. Kim was surprised and didn’t expect Veterans Day! The students also miss the food her to know as much about American from their native country—although culture as she did when she arrived. everyone seems to have discovered Even though China seems a world hot dogs and pizza! Around NDA, away, it may be that high school girls Fall in Love With Fall Coffee a car is usually needed to get almost in most places do a lot of the same Kathy Cahill ‘13 everywhere, while in China, people things that we do here. For these six You know it is fall when the leave Marylou’s outdoes itself and provides usually take their bike when they go new NDA students, the adventures change colors, the homes on Main customers with only the most somewhere. Although the students and the fun are just beginning. Street are decorated with pumpkins, eccentric and sugary coffee flavors. have observed some differences that and the coffee chains bring back For the month of October, specials their signature autumn drinks. i n c l u d e Starbucks, Dunkin Donuts, and S p o o k y Marylou’s help NDA students forget S n i c k e r s , Q&A With Pauline Chen about pools and ice cream shops W i c k e d Mollie O’Leary ‘13 closing for the winter by offering a Butterscotch, Mollie O’Leary ’13 had the chance to interview one of NDA’s newest wide variety of cinnamon, pumpkin, and Ghostly members, Pauline Chen, one of six exchange students from China! Pauline and apple-based coffee flavors. W h i t e is a member of our Sophmore class here at NDA, and hosting her stay is the Starbucks offers limited edition C h o c o l a t e Lengyel family of Cohasset. drinks, including salted caramel hot Chip coffee. chocolate, pumpkin spiced latte, and So run out Q: Have you tried any new foods here that you really liked or really now a pumpkin spiced frappuccino. and buy the didn’t like? Dunkin Donuts offers pumpkin fall coffee specials before they are A: I didn’t like foods with too much cheese, but I liked blueberry crisp and coffee and lattes, and apple cider replaced with Christmas coffee apple pie. for non-coffee drinkers. As always, specials in a couple of weeks! Q: Are the classes any different here compared to the ones at your old school? A: Yes, because in China the whole grade studies the same thing. We do Film Review: Halloweentown not get to choose the classes we want to take. Samantha Morley ‘15 It is that time of year when family and friends gather around the TV with Q: What is the biggest difference in clothing styles here and in China? a large blanket, sip hot chocolate and watch their favorite scary Halloween A: In America, people dress very casually. Many people dress like they are movie. Given that Halloween is coming up about to play sports. In China, a lot of people are very fashionable. They soon, several traditional movies are being like wearing Japanese and Korean style clothing. watched. One movie, Halloweentown, Q: Have you gone to any of the dances yet? If yes, did you have fun? usually played on the Disney Channel, is famous for its scary and nonrealistic scenes. A: Yes, I went to a Xaverian dance and it was kind of fun. I went to dances like those when I was in England. In Halloweentown, Marnie Cromwell lives with her brother and sister. Once her Grandma Q: What has been the hardest thing to get used to? Aggie comes to celebrate Halloween, the true A: It has been hard to get used to taking classes in English. identity of Aggie is revealed; she is a witch. Marnie and her siblings befriend zombies Q: Has America been what you expected it to be like so far or have and freakish creatures. you been surprised? In this mysterious movie, Halloween A: America has been just like I expected. It is a lot like what I saw in TV is represented as a scary, but entertaining shows. holiday. The series contains four movies total, including Halloweentown the original released in 1998, Halloweentown II: Q: Have you heard any music on the radio that you hadn’t heard Kalabar’s Revenge released in 2001, Halloweentown High 2004, and Return before and really liked? What about movies and TV shows? to Halloweentown released in 2006. This season, little kids will watch these A: No, I listen to American music in China and watch a lot of the same movies, as many of us adolescents used to. They will dress up as ghosts and shows too. witches and carry on the tradition of knocking on neighbors’ doors, hoping to find candy, as we all used to as well. Q: Is there one place you really want to visit while you’re here? A: I really want to visit New York City. Also, I want to go to California to visit Universal Studios in Hollywood and to meet movie stars.

-9- OPINION Amanda Please minute-long segments in which we On the Scarcity of Time precious hours per week simply will tackle exactly one item on our complaining about time’s status as a monstrous to-do lists. Perspective nonrenewable resource – think of all goes a long way when it comes the things we could be doing with all to “making time.” Yes, I could be that time! studying for a test two weeks from However, I’m not going to tell now, and finishing those supplements I have a confession to make. books, The Casual Vacancy included you to “make time.” That’s much for the Common App due in January, When thinking about topics for this – and they largely remain unfinished easier said than done, and I suspect but it’s important to value hobbies month’s article, I desperately wanted due to a very stereotypical reason: that editorials about “making time” and pastimes as much as work – to review J.K. Rowling’s new book, schoolwork. amidst the chaos of our modern creating misery for ourselves due to The Casual Vacancy, released I know a lot of people who lives are overdone at this point. excessive amounts of self-inflicted September 27. It would be a topic “don’t have time to read.” Between Time cannot be made; there is a pressure to be productive never ends sure to attract countless readers, and, coursework, extracurricular finite amount of it, and it is upto well. If it brings you joy, setting aside as an avid Harry Potter fan myself, activities, SAT prep, more us to choose how we use it. Do we time for reading is just as important a topic of personal importance. coursework, the Common App, wish to finish our favorite author’s as setting aside time for homework Never once did I imagine that, six ACT prep, exhaustion, mental latest book, or visit a friend? Work and studying. days after its release, I wouldn’t instability, and perhaps even a social on an essay, or watch an hour of Tonight, I’m going to take my own have finished the book. In fact, I am life, twenty-four hours gets used up television? Making time isn’t about advice and make time to read – it’s only one hundred pages into it (and pretty fast. All of these excuses for magically conjuring extra minutes important to me to finishThe Casual thoroughly enjoying it, in case you not doing things such as reading are – it’s about choices. We have to Vacancy, or I’ll wake up every were wondering). As shameful as it so commonly heard that I cringe ration our time if we wish to get morning swelling with frustration, is for a self-identified bookworm to every time I hear a sentence that everything done. And we have to wishing I’d procrastinated a little admit that they have not read one of ends with “... didn’t have time.” For accept that everything might not less on that math assignment so that their favorite author’s books, it is not all the time we apparently do not get done – smartly rationing time is I could have had time to read. Focus an alien phenomenon for many high- have, we seem to find plenty of time about understanding what is most when you need to, value what you school age readers. On my nightstand to complain about lacking said time. important at a particular moment, enjoy, and time suddenly won’t seem rest no less than seven unfinished In fact, we probably spend several not splitting up the day into eighteen- so scarce after all.

Heritage Day photos Coffeehouse courtesy of Caroline Casey ‘14

You know you’re a sophomore when...

by eliza morgan ‘13

The Girl In the Green Kilt EMILY SMITH ‘13 Dear Girl in the Green Kilt, My friend always asks if she can copy my homework, and I feel very uncomfortable because I feel like she might be taking advantage of me. What should I do in this situation? -Not a Cheater Dear Not a Cheater, She is taking advantage of you; there is no doubt in a situation like this. Have you ever heard of the phrase “just say no”? This applies to every kind of peer pressure, including academic pressure. Whenever a friend is pressuring you into doing something you are uncomfortable with, they are The Medallion - October 2012 not being a friend in that situation. Especially when what they are asking you to do could get you Editors -Julliane McShane ‘13, into trouble. NDA has an honor code that does not permit cheating of any kind. You could get in a Samantha Mastrogiacomo ‘13, lot of trouble if you were caught cheating, and most likely, your friend willeventually get caught. Isabella Walko ‘14, Mariah Ward ‘14 Next time your friend asks you, take a polite but assertive approach. Don’t apologize for not letting her cheat off you, because she should not even be asking you in the first place. Tell her if she needs Features Editor-Meredith Wade ‘14 extra help in a subject, you would be happy to help, but she has to come up with the answers on her own. Talk to Advisors - Mrs. Pepe and Ms. your friend about how you don’t feel right about cheating. And lastly, you don’t have to tell her this, but just know Callahan that if you can do your own work, so can she. Just ask “The Girl in the Green Kilt” ! Meetings are Mondays at 2:30. Submit your writing to mpepe@ndahingham. -The Girl in the Green Kilt Log on to your Portal, click the ‘Publications’ Tab, and submit your question! com!

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