I preface this by stating clearly, I am NOT a Newton South hater! Abso-lutely not! South has whipped me into shape, enhanced my love of theatre and arts, and taught me to work hard. Moreover, I've developed close relationships with teachers who have changed my perspective on learning and creativity.

The clock on the car dashboard reads 7:38. I glance anxiously at my dad and my brother in the back seat. Our car edges along, stuck in bumper-to-bumper traffic on Brandeis Road. Usually, the road is fairly decongested at this point in the morning, but today it has taken us eight minutes to move about a hundred yards. Cars in front of us put on their blinkers to turn onto the road behind the school, but a woman stands in front of a wooden road barrier, blocking the way.

Loud, overwhelming, and cliquish. These are just a few words that come to mind when asked what it is like to have a meal in the cafeteria, or “Student Center. I do make a daily appearance in the cafeteria, but it's only to buy my lunch, not to eat it there.

Note: Even though I am an athlete, by writing this article I elevate myself to a level similar to godliness, so I may refer to athletes as “they, “them, or “the peasantry, and avoid any possible hypocrisy.