Marauder of the Week: Friday, January 27th, 2023
Special Edition

Marauder of the Week was founded by math teachers Dan Moresco and Lisa Carlivati in 2018 to recognize a wider array of seniors for all their accomplishments in and out of the classroom.  Over these five school years we have been able to recognize many students who have contributed in a variety of different ways to our community.  Some of the accomplishments of past nominees include athletics, performing arts, community service, academics, Eagle Scouts, classroom leadership, etc.

Over the five years of this program's existence we have relied on the help of many individuals including Carol Ouellette, Joan Paras, Martha Bloom, Anna Guastella, Sara Fraser, Haley Brown, Elisabeth Pitts, Hoon Baeg, Joyce Gong, and Claire Svetkey.  Thank you all!

Each week, we especially rely on two people to get our Marauder of the Week profiles out to you.  Angie Hernandez assists in adding profiles to the monitors around BHS so all the students can enjoy them.  And for years, Natalya Bochkov has maintained the Marauder of the Week website and emailed out the profiles to the community.  Thank you, Angie and Natalya!

You can always review past Marauders of the Week at the BHS website at Marauders-of-the-Week.  We hope you enjoy the program!  Feel free to reach out to us at any time.

–Lisa Carlivati & Dan Moresco

Ella Pettine

1. Favorite school subject:

My favorite school subjects are English and History.

2. Most influential class(es) and/or teacher(s)

Mr.Bruce has been the most influential teacher I have had, he has always been kind and supportive.

3. Extracurriculars that have been meaningful to you:

Extracurriculars that have been meaningful to me are being able to run the Holiday Coat Drive to collect coats for kids who need them during the winter season in Massachusetts.

4. What are you most proud of doing or being part of, either at BHS or in the community?

I'm most proud of being a mentor to young kids as a camp counselor over the last two years at Camp Billings.

5. What are you passionate about?

I am passionate about coffee...you may say I am a coffee aficionado. Most classes I am hard at work with a latte, espresso, or macchiato in hand.

6. What words of wisdom would you like to leave for other BHS students?

The key to everything is kindness...and coffee

Olympia Kazantzidis

1. Favorite school subject:

My favorite school subject is English.

2. Most influential class(es) and/or teacher(s)

I would say for me the most influential classes would be Global Leadership, and English.

3. Extracurriculars that have been meaningful to you:

The extracurricular activity that has been meaningful to me is running track, which I have been running for 3 years. The experience of track is meaningful and getting to push towards my goals.

4. What are you most proud of doing or being part of, either at BHS or in the community?

I would say I am most proud of getting involved in community service, I value helping the community and helping others.

5. What words of wisdom would you like to leave for other BHS students?

Don’t be afraid to take risks – you create your own opportunities.

Marauder of the Week: Friday, January 20th, 2023

Thomas "Tommy" Windemuth

1. Favorite school subject:

Music

2. Most influential class(es) and/or teacher(s)

Cooking Class with Mr. Procko

3. Extracurriculars that have been meaningful to you:

Hip Hop....Unified Basketball...Movies

4. What are you most proud of doing or being part of, either at BHS or in the community?

PALS Group

5. What are you passionate about?

Acapella  Singing

Kareem Amira

1. Favorite school subject:

Environmental Science and Computer Science, I love the classes so much!

2. Most influential class(es) and/or teacher(s)

Ms Mastalong, really motivated me to learn about history

3. Extracurriculars that have been meaningful to you:

Tutoring for LUFC

4. What are you most proud of doing or being part of, either at BHS or in the community?

Being a student of Ms Saxena

5. What are you passionate about?

I'm passionate about saving the environment

6. What words of wisdom would you like to leave for other BHS students?

Eat breakfast - Ms Mastalong

Jandel Rodriguez Guzman

 

1. Favorite school subject:

Milo's Drawing and Painting class

2. Most influential class(es) and/or teacher(s)

My most influential teachers would have to be Milo and Ms. McCarthy for sure

3. Extracurriculars that have been meaningful to you:

I love working on my Clothing line called "isanyonearound", it's a self ran brand that was made in order to push street-wear into the same picture as other fashions lines in dreams of landing a deal with some of those brands. I also love being a bus monitor for elementary students and hearing about their accomplishments and goals as they develop to be bright kids and great members of our society one day.

4. What are you most proud of doing or being part of, either at BHS or in the community?

One thing I'm proud of doing is helping others find their creative abilities and not being shy about what they consider to be their own ideas of creativity. A creative community is a healthy one and it's inspiring to see how my own brand has helped so many others in its beginning process.

5. What are you passionate about?

I am passionate about music, making clothes and finding life's purpose and direction for me in many different aspects.

6. What words of wisdom would you like to leave for other BHS students?

Slow motion is better than no motion, move at your own pace but never stop moving.

Marauder of the Week: Friday, January 13th, 2023

Sophie McDevitt

1. Favorite school subject:

Math and science

2. Most influential class(es) and/or teacher(s)

My most influential classes are Social Justice with Ms. Shea and Mr. Moresco, AP Econ with Mr. Streit, and Statistics with Ms. Pulido!

3. Extracurriculars that have been meaningful to you:

I've loved playing volleyball and basketball

4. What are you most proud of doing or being part of, either at BHS or in the community?

I am proud of finding new interests and learning to find a balance between school work and activities

5. What are you passionate about?

Justin's honey peanut butter.

6. What words of wisdom would you like to leave for other BHS students?

Make space for the things that bring you joy :)

Nora Guzikowski

1. Favorite school subject:

English

2. Most influential class(es) and/or teacher(s)

It’s so hard to narrow down but APUSH with Ms. White, Euro with Ms. Mastalong, English with Mr. Markley, Bio with Dr. Molk, Latin with Mr. Bracey, Math with Ms. Pulido, and Econ with Mr. Streit have all taught me so much.

3. Extracurriculars that have been meaningful to you:

Performing in the PAC, A Cappella, and Madrigals with help from Mr. Flam and Ms. Donovan has helped me grow so much & I love doing it (come see Mean Girls in March)! I recently started rock climbing which I love, and  I have also loved organizing Make a Statement Day with Ms. Melnikoff and Dr. Shea as our advisors.

4. What are you most proud of doing or being part of, either at BHS or in the community?

I’m proud of being an officer in the PAC and an improv student director! Theater gives me the opportunity to share what I love with others and make people laugh, two things I’m very grateful for.

5. What are you passionate about?

I am passionate about ice cream! I work at Ranc’s and have very strong opinions, come talk to me about my favorite flavors.

6. What words of wisdom would you like to leave for other BHS students?

Invest in a fanny pack. You’ll be able to hold so many things!

Hedvig Hellsvik

1. Favorite school subject:

Math and Economics

2. Most influential class(es) and/or teacher(s)

Classes - economics, biology

Teachers - Mr. Goldfine, Dr. Molk

3. Extracurriculars that have been meaningful to you:

Volleyball, PALS, track

4. What are you most proud of doing or being part of, either at BHS or in the community?

I have loved being part of the BHS volleyball team because it's always been a very fun and close knit team. Everyone who is part of the team is kind and very supportive which has made it such a great experience.

5. What are you passionate about?

I'm very passionate about travel and learning about other people and cultures through first hand experiences and through learning in class.

6. What words of wisdom would you like to leave for other BHS students?

Get to know your teachers because it'll make school more fun!

Marauder of the Week: Friday, January 6th, 2023

Austin Cambridge

1. Favorite school subject:

Social studies

2. Most influential class(es) and/or teacher(s)

AP European History with Ms. Mastalong and English with Ms. Vultaggio!

3. Extracurriculars that have been meaningful to you:

Working on the Student Senate and seeing the progress that its made has been amazing. I've loved joining smaller groups (and meetings) as they've come up as well, leading to work with the PTSO and Belmont Wellness Coalition.

4. What are you most proud of doing or being part of, either at BHS or in the community?

I am most proud of being able to form connections with so many of my peers as BHS. Working with classmates in and out of school, building lasting friendships, and developing systems with others where we learn from one another have been really important processes to me.

5. What are you passionate about?

I am passionate about understanding people as best I can, on a personal and more general level. I want to help and learn from others more and more as time goes on.

6. What words of wisdom would you like to leave for other BHS students?

Don't let the expectations of others consume you :)

Grace Deane

1. Favorite school subject:

Zoology

2. Most influential class(es) and/or teacher(s)

Photography

3. Extracurriculars that have been meaningful to you:

Dance

4. What are you most proud of doing or being part of, either at BHS or in the community?

I am most proud of the bonds I have made here

5. What are you passionate about?

Dance

6. What words of wisdom would you like to leave for other BHS students?

Naps are very important

Layne Doherty

1. Favorite school subject:

I enjoy English and Spanish class because we do the most engaging activities in those classes like playing games and learning about different perspectives in life.

2. Most influential class(es) and/or teacher(s)

The most influential class I have ever taken was Junior year Global Leadership with Dr. Shea. The class allowed me to learn about countries all over the world and how people live and help support the world around them. Dr. Shea taught me what it feels like to have a real class community with laughter and lots of clapping! 

3. Extracurriculars that have been meaningful to you:

I have loved playing sports at BHS because of all the wonderful teams I have been apart of. I have enjoyed playing Field Hockey with Coach Mac and Lacrosse with Coach Reed. I have also loved being involved in the PALS program throughout my 4 years at BHS and believe that it has helped fuel my passion for a potential future occupation. Outside of school I love coaching younger athletes in Lacrosse each week and growing the game throughout the Belmont youth program.

4. What are you most proud of doing or being part of, either at BHS or in the community?

I have truly loved being a part of the Best Buddies and PALS programs throughout the years, it has opened many doors for me. I feel that these programs have allowed me to find my passion in life. I have also felt a lot of pride throughout my coaching career because I love teaching younger athletes sports that I am passionate about and giving them the extra confidence they need.

5. What are you passionate about?

I am very passionate about working with children with different disabilities and diagnoses because I can't help but smile when I am around them! I hope to continue my passion into a future job of either Special Education or Occupational therapy.

6. What words of wisdom would you like to leave for other BHS students?

Be kind to others around you because you never know what they could be going through.

Marauder of the Week: Friday, December 16th, 2022

Astrid Reker

1. Favorite school subject:

Game theory and Diseases and Forensics

2. Most influential class(es) and/or teacher(s)

Mr. Bracey, Mr. Reynolds, and Ms. Carlivati

3. Extracurriculars that have been meaningful to you:

Madrigal singers

4. What are you most proud of doing or being part of, either at BHS or in the community?

I’m proud of being involved with the performing arts community at BHS

5. What are you passionate about?

Fashion, learning new interesting facts, and trying to make people feel comfortable and welcomed in my communities

6. What words of wisdom would you like to leave for other BHS students?

When you find something in class interesting, dive deeper into it. It will either be helpful in the class or it will just be nice to know for the future.

Evvie Boas

1. Favorite school subject:

My favorite subject is Biology!

2. Most influential class(es) and/or teacher(s)

My most influential class was 3D Printing because it was the first class that I was really interested in. I liked using CAD software and being able to solve problems using math and logic.

3. Extracurriculars that have been meaningful to you:

I've played soccer my whole life, and I've met tons of amazing people through it. I also volunteer every week with little kids, which is really fun.

4. What are you most proud of doing or being part of, either at BHS or in the community?

I am most proud of learning how to balance school with clubs, sports, and a social life. It took me a while to figure out, but it's a skill that will definitely stick with me.

5. What are you passionate about?

I'm really passionate about ice cream. My favorite flavor is probably cookie dough, but I'm not picky.

6. What words of wisdom would you like to leave for other BHS students?

My words of wisdom are that high school really does go by fast, so spend your time doing stuff that you care about, and don't worry about everything else.

Jacy Hoffmann

1. Favorite school subject:

Biology and Chemistry

2. Most influential class(es) and/or teacher(s)

Mrs. Saxena, Mr. Bracey, Dr. Comment

3. Extracurriculars that have been meaningful to you:

Volunteering at Mass Audubon, swimming, reading

4. What are you most proud of doing or being part of, either at BHS or in the community?

Science Olympiad, Robotics, Latin Club

5. What are you passionate about?

Continually learning.

6. What words of wisdom would you like to leave for other BHS students?

You have to be willing to be bad at something before you can get better.

Marauder of the Week: Friday, December 9th, 2022

Leila Bernbeck

1. Favorite school subject:

Science and Math.

2. Most influential class(es) and/or teacher(s)

French with Ms. Penner-Hahn and Biology with Ms. Saxena

3. Extracurriculars that have been meaningful to you:

Set Crew and the PAC have been meaningful to me because they’ve taught me about community and leadership.

4. What are you most proud of doing or being part of, either at BHS or in the community?

I am proud of mentoring and coaching middle school students and underclassmen.

5. What are you passionate about?

I am passionate about mental health awareness and advocacy.

6. What words of wisdom would you like to leave for other BHS students?

Try to find one thing to look forward to in your day. It will make even the most stressful days more manageable.

Sachie Capitani

1. Favorite school subject:

Social Justice and Acting

2. Most influential class(es) and/or teacher(s)

Social Justice/English with Ms. Shea, Mr. Moresco, Ms. Masterson, and Mr. McKissick, Advanced Acting with Mr. Flam, and AP Euro with Ms. Mastalong

3. Extracurriculars that have been meaningful to you:

Theater, Rock climbing, and working at Trinktisch have all been really meaningful to me, and have helped me become the person I am today!

4. What are you most proud of doing or being part of, either at BHS or in the community?

I am proud of everything I've gotten to do in the PAC throughout high school. Theater is something I'm really passionate about and I feel the PAC has helped grow so much in the past 4 years.

5. What are you passionate about?

I am passionate about finding the fun in life! I love branching out to meet new people and making the most out of everything!!

6. What words of wisdom would you like to leave for other BHS students?

Live your truth!

Shay Donahue

1. Favorite school subject:

My favorite school subject is math

2. Most influential class(es) and/or teacher(s)

My most influential teachers would have to be Mr. Goldfine and Dr. Molk.

3. Extracurriculars that have been meaningful to you:

I like playing hockey and baseball.

4. What are you most proud of doing or being part of, either at BHS or in the community?

I'm most proud of the success of the hockey team and how far we have come as a program throughout the years. To all you younglins, continue the dynasty with the years to come

5. What are you passionate about?

I am a captain of the boys hockey team and am very excited for this year's hockey season. Come down to the skip to see the boys play.

6. What words of wisdom would you like to leave for other BHS students?

Be on time and pucks in deep.

Marauder of the Week: Friday, December 2nd, 2022

Asa Rosenmeier

1. Favorite school subject:

Environmental Science, Statistics

2. Most influential class(es) and/or teacher(s)

Mr. Moresco

3. Extracurriculars that have been meaningful to you:

• Rugby has been super meaningful to me because of the friends that I’ve made while on the team and the the way it has shaped my lifestyle and work ethic
• Football has been meaningful to me because it has taught me to enjoy myself and be positive no matter what I’m doing, to always make any situation a positive one.
• Theater has been meaningful to me because of the way it built my self confidence. It has taught me to trust myself and if I’m wrong to make confident mistakes.

4. What are you most proud of doing or being part of, either at BHS or in the community?

I’m most proud of my time spent playing for the USA under 18 national rugby team in Amsterdam this summer.

5. What are you passionate about?

I’m passionate about environmental issues. I think this started because of the time me and my family spent hiking and boating outdoors.

6. What words of wisdom would you like to leave for other BHS students?

“Not everything that glitters is gold, but it is cool” -Graydon

Gaby Mendoza

1. Favorite school subject:

History of Music in Film and TV

2. Most influential class(es) and/or teacher(s)

Ms. Lewis and Ms. Murphy

3. Extracurriculars that have been meaningful to you:

Latin Dance Club

4. What are you most proud of doing or being part of, either at BHS or in the community?

My proudest moment is being co-president of the Latin Dance club and being able to spread and teach more about Hispanic and Latino culture and dances by connecting with other students

5. What are you passionate about?

Learning new things and going to new places

6. What words of wisdom would you like to leave for other BHS students?

Don’t slack off in junior year because you will regret it

Joel Iglesias

1. Favorite school subject:

English and History!

2. Most influential class(es) and/or teacher(s)

Hard question! But definitely English with Dr. Comment, Ap Economics with Mr. Streit, Creative Writing with Ms. Hurtubise, and English with Ms. Bloom.

3. Extracurriculars that have been meaningful to you:

Tutoring students, especially in ESL/ English. Also helping run the Belmontian club and Highpoint Magazine and Newspaper have been extremely meaningful to me.

4. What are you most proud of doing or being part of, either at BHS or in the community?

I've been working this year to help start a peer-tutoring program here at BHS, and it's been pretty difficult, but we are launching our program at the start of December and I am so so happy about it!

5. What are you passionate about?

I'm passionate about equal access to education. Regardless of socioeconomic status, race, gender, and any other factor.

6. What words of wisdom would you like to leave for other BHS students?

Two things: find something you are endlessly passionate about, independent from school or work. And smile and laugh often -- it makes you feel better.

Marauder of the Week: Friday, November 18th, 2022

Chivon Coyne

1. Favorite school subject:

My favorite subject is Disease and Forensics!

2. Most influential class(es) and/or teacher(s)

The most influential teachers I have had are Ms. Lewis and Ms. Aller.

3. Extracurriculars that have been meaningful to you:

Boxing has helped me gain confidence and has also helped me mentally.

4. What are you most proud of doing or being part of, either at BHS or in the community?

I took advantage of a community service opportunity by volunteering to bake for the food pantry in Belmont. 

5. What are you passionate about?

I am extremely passionate about OREOS, they are incredible and every single variation is delicious.

6. What words of wisdom would you like to leave for other BHS students?

"Live life like it's your birthday!" - original quote by me.

Dylan Cumbo

1. Favorite school subject:

Biology

2. Most influential class(es) and/or teacher(s)

Most Influential class was with Mr Berkman in Law, it was a fun class and the things I learned were very relevant to the real world.

3. Extracurriculars that have been meaningful to you:

I really enjoyed volunteering at a marine life center in the Florida Keys

4. What are you most proud of doing or being part of, either at BHS or in the community?

I am proud of myself for completing the SAT, getting through quarantine alright, and getting good grades.

5. What are you passionate about?

I am passionate about marine life, exercising, diving, and law.

6. What words of wisdom would you like to leave for other BHS students?

Enjoy your life, the years go by a lot quicker than you would think.

George Fotis

1. Favorite school subject:

Science

2. Most influential class(es) and/or teacher(s)

Many of my history classes from over the years have been influential because they teach us about past life and how we today can make a positive change and not repeat the mistakes of history 

3. Extracurriculars that have been meaningful to you:

PAC (Theater)

4. What are you most proud of doing or being part of, either at BHS or in the community?

I am most proud of being able to help out the community outside of school and volunteer at events and just make a difference to others.  

5. What are you passionate about?

Music is something that I am extremely passionate about. It has always been something that has influenced just about  everything I do. I believe that it is truly something special and It can really make a difference. 

6. What words of wisdom would you like to leave for other BHS students?

Be Yourself

Marauder of the Week: Thursday, November 10th, 2022

Gabriella Athanasiou

1. Favorite school subject:

My favorite school subjects are Math and English.

2. Most influential class(es) and/or teacher(s)

My most influential teacher has to be Mr. Lefebvre; his passion for teaching makes all of his classes feel captivating and fun.

3. Extracurriculars that have been meaningful to you:

Being captain of the girl cross country team has been really meaningful to me. I am lucky to have such a supportive and friendly team who I will miss dearly when the season ends!

4. What are you most proud of doing or being part of, either at BHS or in the community?

At risk of being a little repetitive, the thing I'm most proud of is being a captain of the girl's cross-country team!

5. What are you passionate about?

I am passionate about one very specific random fact about shrimp. (THEIR HEARTS ARE IN THEIR HEADS!!)

6. What words of wisdom would you like to leave for other BHS students?

Some wisdom I’ll leave is: When things get overwhelming, think about the bigger picture. Everything will work out in the end.

John Regan

1. Favorite school subject:

Disease and Forensics

2. Most influential class(es) and/or teacher(s)

Ms. Lewis, Dr. Shea, Mr. Bruno

3. Extracurriculars that have been meaningful to you:

The golf team

4. What are you most proud of doing or being part of, either at BHS or in the community?

I am proud of making it to my senior year of high school.

5. What are you passionate about?

I am passionate about being a hard worker.

6. What words of wisdom would you like to leave for other BHS students?

Trust your gut!

Sophia Liu

1. Favorite school subject:

Art, Biology, English

2. Most influential class(es) and/or teacher(s)

Teacher: If I didn’t say Milo, he would probably fail me🙈

3. Extracurriculars that have been meaningful to you:

Volleyball, journal club (meets every other Monday in room C350!), and Science Team!

4. What are you most proud of doing or being part of, either at BHS or in the community?

I recently published a picture book called Eric's Allergies (available on Amazon, check it out hehe). I am really proud of myself for completing that project!

5. What are you passionate about?

I'm passionate about medium earl grey milk tea with less ice, 30% sugar, and boba pearls. Now, if anyone wants to buy me one....;D

6. What words of wisdom would you like to leave for other BHS students?

Only procrastinate if you are prepared to pull all-nighters :(

Marauder of the Week: Friday, November 4th, 2022

Claire Hlotyak

1. Favorite school subject:

English

2. Most influential class(es) and/or teacher(s)

Definitely Global Leadership with Dr. Shea! I have this class to thank for introducing me to the topics of global health and policy, which I hope to continue studying in college.

3. Extracurriculars that have been meaningful to you:

Rugby has been a huge part of my high school experience. I have met so many amazing people through the community at BHS and in Massachusetts, and I am excited to continue playing this year!

4. What are you most proud of doing or being part of, either at BHS or in the community?

I am very proud of co-founding the Criminal Justice Club at BHS! Throughout our two years, our club has had the opportunity to educate about the harmful impacts of wrongful convictions, talk with exonerees, and raise money for the New England Innocence Project!

5. What are you passionate about?

I love volunteering at the Belmont Farmers Market every week! The market plays an integral part in our community by providing food assistance and other community events. I am so thankful to have made so many friendships and memories throughout my three years there!

6. What words of wisdom would you like to leave for other BHS students?

We all have our own talents, strengths, and something to contribute. Acknowledge the impact you have, and never give up on yourself.

Miriam Woods

1. Favorite school subject:

AP Psychology

2. Most influential class(es) and/or teacher(s)

Ms. Mastalong in AP Euro- she is still one of my favorite teachers in all of my high school experience, and her genuine interest in European history made the class a fun and unique experience.

3. Extracurriculars that have been meaningful to you:

I volunteer at Sunday school for my temple, which I have been doing since 8th grade. It has been a great way for me to give back to my Jewish community, and I love working with the kindergarten class. I also do winter and spring track, which is super fun even if you don't have a lot of experience running so please sign up!

4. What are you most proud of doing or being part of, either at BHS or in the community?

I'm proud of being co-president of the Art and Activism club, which will be meeting for the first time this year next Wednesday. It will be a great way to raise awareness for many social justice issues we face as a community and a fun way to become involved in making BHS a more progressive and upstanding place.

5. What are you passionate about?

I am passionate about exploring new places and seeking new experiences, especially with the people I care about. I love to travel, and I also love spending time in nature whether that is camping trips, hiking, or even long walks with my two dogs. I think that seizing every opportunity to try something new and meet new people is super important to making the most out of life.

6. What words of wisdom would you like to leave for other BHS students?

Make sure you have a balance of school work and activities that you care about! It's easy to take on too much all at once, so try to give yourself time to do what makes you happy.

Nick Mazzoni

1. Favorite school subject:

Physics

2. Most influential class(es) and/or teacher(s)

Physics with Jlo, English with Mr. Markley, English with Mrs. Bloom, Bio with Mrs. Saxena, Chem with Mr. A

3. Extracurriculars that have been meaningful to you:

Being apart of the Mooicides AAU basketball team, cross country team, chess club, and rock climbing club (which is in desperate need of members)

4. What are you most proud of doing or being part of, either at BHS or in the community?

I am proud of being president and founder of the chess club. It's grown so much since it started, and I feel like it's had a big impact on the community.

5. What are you passionate about?

I like physics, running, chess, biking and rock climbing (those last three have clubs associated with them that you should join, also join art club).

6. What words of wisdom would you like to leave for other BHS students?

It is easy to be kind to people when life is going well, but when life isn't going well it is all the more important.

Marauder of the Week: Friday, October 28th, 2022

Leo Carpenter

1. Favorite school subject:

Biology and Psychology

2. Most influential class(es) and/or teacher(s)

Mr. Goldfine's Modern World History and Mr. Dashoff's Psychology

3. Extracurriculars that have been meaningful to you:

• Indoor/Outdoor Track
• Eagle Scout
• Trombone at Youth Jazz Orchestra and Massachusetts Youth Wind Ensemble at NEC 
• Mentoring students from Korea through Leaders United for Climate
• President of BHS Biking Club
• AAU Basketball Team called the Mooicides

4. What are you most proud of doing or being part of, either at BHS or in the community?

Removing invasive species of plants at the Habitat Reservation for my Eagle Scout project.

5. What are you passionate about?

Biology and Environmental Change, Playing and listening to music, Buffalo Bills, Boston Celtics, instant ramen, spending time with friends and family

6. What words of wisdom would you like to leave for other BHS students?

Be present in the moment.

Tori Nilsen

1. Favorite school subject:

Math

2. Most influential class(es) and/or teacher(s)

• English w Ms Bloom
• AP Physics w JLo (humbling experience)
• MS WHITE

3. Extracurriculars that have been meaningful to you:

Basketball, track and field, barista at Starbucks, summer program AYUDA (volunteer in the Dominican Republic)

4. What are you most proud of doing or being part of, either at BHS or in the community?

Pushing myself to branch out and try as much as possible even if out of my comfort zone

5. What are you passionate about?

MILK GOES FIRST IN THE CEREAL BOWL.

6. What words of wisdom would you like to leave for other BHS students?

Stop thinking start smiling :)

Weldon Smith

1. Favorite school subject:

History/Social Studies

2. Most influential class(es) and/or teacher(s)

AP European History and AP Modern World History with Ms. Mastalong as well as AP Econ with Mr. Streit

3. Extracurriculars that have been meaningful to you:

Ultimate Frisbee, Ski Team, the PAC, Model UN, and Student Senate

4. What are you most proud of doing or being part of, either at BHS or in the community?

I'm always proud of being able to put on performances with the Performing Arts Company as a lot of time and effort goes into each show and it is really rewarding to see it all come together. I'm also proud of introducing younger students to extracurriculars that they may have missed during Covid and teaching them what I have learned my past 4 years.

5. What are you passionate about?

I am passionate about playing Ultimate Frisbee, trying new things, and building strong relationships with the people around me.

6. What words of wisdom would you like to leave for other BHS students?

The days go by slowly but the months go by fast so try not to let all the opportunities slip past you.

Marauder of the Week: Friday, October 21st, 2022

Bora Kosar

1. Favorite school subject:

Chem (shoutout to Mr. A)

2. Most influential class(es) and/or teacher(s):

Orchestra (shoutout to Mrs. Reavey) and Physics (shoutout to JLo and Lefebvre)

3. Extracurriculars that have been meaningful to you:

PAC (shoutout to Flam)

4. What are you most proud of doing or being part of, either at BHS or in the community?

I've had a really great time participating in all the PAC shows throughout the years and generally trying everything I can.

5. What are you passionate about?

I really love music, it's been a driving force for me since the pandemic and I feel like I've really found my voice with it.

6. What words of wisdom would you like to leave for other BHS students?

Enjoy yourself, it's easy to get wrapped up in all your responsibilities so remember to have some fun once in a while.

Leo Boss

1. Favorite school subject:

Math

2. Most influential class(es) and/or teacher(s):

Mr. Bracey and Mr. Flam

3. Extracurriculars that have been meaningful to you:

The PAC, Latin Club, and volunteering at the library

4. What are you most proud of doing or being part of, either at BHS or in the community?

I'm really proud of being able to participate in lots of creative projects in the school! I've loved performing with the PAC and getting to help with things like the haunted house last year.

5. What are you passionate about?

Finding opportunities to make and share cool stuff

6. What words of wisdom would you like to leave for other BHS students?

Do the optional homework! You might not think you need it but it sneaks up on you.

Maima Diakhate

1. Favorite school subject:

History

2. Most influential class(es) and/or teacher(s):

Global Leadership with Dr. Shea and Biology with Dr. Molk

3. Extracurriculars that have been meaningful to you:

The extracurriculars that have been meaningful to me are swimming both for my club team and here at  BHS; something else that has also been meaningful is teaching swim lessons and helping people develop a new skill.

4. What are you most proud of doing or being part of, either at BHS or in the community?

I am proud to start a position as assistant bus monitor for the METCO elementary bus.

5. What are you passionate about?

I am passionate about traveling to different places and learning about different cultures.

6. What words of wisdom would you like to leave for other BHS students?

Stay true to yourself; don’t let others dictate who you become.

Marauder of the Week: Friday, October 14th, 2022

Sean Canavan

1. Favorite school subject:

My favorite subjects are English, Calculus, and Economics

2. Most influential class(es) and/or teacher(s):

Mr. Goldfine’s History and Economics classes really stood out to me. Every day he brought his best energy and clear passion for the subjects that he teaches.

3. Extracurriculars that have been meaningful to you:

I have really enjoyed being a part of the Set crew in the Performing Arts Company at our school as well as Props crew. Another meaningful activity for me was being a part of the Scouts BSA Troop 304.

4. What are you most proud of doing or being part of, either at BHS or in the community?

I am most proud of my volunteer work at Perkins School for the Blind. I have been volunteering in the school’s Assistive Device Center where we build custom learning materials.

5. What are you passionate about?

I am passionate about fostering dogs with my family

6. What words of wisdom would you like to leave for other BHS students?

Education is the one investment that can't be taken away from you. Take advantage of your time here and try your best. I can promise you that your hard work here will pay off, one way or another.

Clara Bhagwati

1. Favorite school subject:

Biology

2. Most influential class(es) and/or teacher(s):

Global Leadership with Dr. Shea

3. Extracurriculars that have been meaningful to you:

I do both school and club swimming, and I have been swimming since I was super young. I love getting to work for something that isn't academic, and I couldn't imagine my life without them!

4. What are you most proud of doing or being part of, either at BHS or in the community?

Like I mentioned, swimming has been a big part of my life since I can remember. Even though our years at BHS have been interrupted due to the building construction and the pandemic, I am so proud of the team my fellow captains and I have kept up this year. It is such a fun place to be, and the work put into it definitely feels worth it!

5. What are you passionate about?

I'm really passionate about always making sure people feel included and have someone to talk to about what they might be going through at any moment in time. I love a good conversation and want everyone to feel comfortable talking about whatever they want to with me.

6. What words of wisdom would you like to leave for other BHS students?

As annoying as it sounds, all you can ever do is your best in that moment in time, so you should always do that. From there, have fun, be proud of yourself and take the lessons you learned with you to keep trying to get better. Also, the best classes are always the classes you're interested in; take classes that sound fun even if your friends aren't taking them!

Merna Shehata

1. Favorite school subject:

I enjoy the endless wonders of psychology.

2. Most influential class(es) and/or teacher(s):

My most influential class is my psychology class. My most influential teachers are my psychology teacher Ms. Dashoff and my anatomy teacher Ms. Chen. Both are very welcoming and engaging, making learning interesting and fun.

3. Extracurriculars that have been meaningful to you:

I enjoy playing tennis and being part of the school tennis team community during my sophomore year and I look forward to leading my club "Let's Chat" this year.

4. What are you most proud of doing or being part of, either at BHS or in the community?

I am proud of being part of the hardworking student community at BHS, participating in the Highpoint writing contests, and being part of the Belmont-Hopkinton badminton team.

5. What are you passionate about?

I am very passionate about art and writing. I am also passionate about being able to help others problem solve and think through their troubles, which comes from my passion to understanding human behavior and thoughts.

6. What words of wisdom would you like to leave for other BHS students?

Focus on the moment you are in and make the most of it. Go out and experience everything, try everything you are interested in.

Marauder of the Week: Friday, October 7th, 2022

Jessica Gurung

1. Favorite school subject:

My favorite school subject this year is Social Justice which I find very eye-opening, engaging, and different from any other class I have taken before. Apart from Social Justice, my favorite subjects are Chemistry and History.

2. Most influential class(es) and/or teacher(s)

I really enjoyed history with Mr. Goldfine, and his passion for economics which exposed me to a new way of thinking. I am thankful for him for always pushing me to be curious and to apply what I learned in class into my life.

3. Extracurriculars that have been meaningful to you:

I enjoy helping others in the community which I have been able to do through volunteering at Nepali Class Boston (NCB), a non-profit Nepalese language school, where I have been able to give back to the Nepalese community and help teach kids about their language, rich heritage and preserve Nepalese culture. I also loved tutoring ELE elementary students in Belmont.

4. What are you most proud of doing or being part of, either at BHS or in the community?

I am most proud of being a member of the Greater Boston Regional Student Advisory Council and being a part of UNICEF club, which I am super excited to be treasurer of this year. I am also proud of being a part of the 5 Minutes Ago team where I have learned new skills and have made many unforgettable memories.

5. What are you passionate about?

I am passionate about taekwondo and traditional Nepalese cultural dancing.

6. What words of wisdom would you like to leave for other BHS students?

Be the best that you can be, and be yourself. Everyone is on different paths, so just focus on yours.

Farhan Sayeed

1. Favorite school subject:

Social studies

2. Most influential class(es) and/or teacher(s):

AP economics with Mr. Streit and English with Ms. Vultaggio

3. Extracurriculars that have been meaningful to you:

Ultimate Frisbee, and Leaders United for Change

4. What are you most proud of doing or being part of, either at BHS or in the community?

I'm extremely proud of starting the Muslim Student Association at Belmont High School to have the representation that I never did when I was an underclassman.

5. What are you passionate about?

I am passionate about my internship about sustainability as I care for the future of our environment.

6. What words of wisdom would you like to leave for other BHS students?

Work hard, play hard

Marauder of the Week: Friday, September 30, 2022

Will Sprague

1. Favorite school subject:

English

2. Most influential class(es) and/or teacher(s)

Acting with Mr. Flam

3. Extracurriculars that have been meaningful to you:

Performing Arts Company and Improv

4. What are you most proud of doing or being part of, either at BHS or in the community?

I am proud of some of the many performances I've done here at school, as well as finding ways to break out of my comfort zone in the BHS community, like when I went to the prom

5. What are you passionate about?

I am passionate about finding ways to support my peers, so we can all do our best work, no matter the situation.

6. What words of wisdom would you like to leave for other BHS students?

Always keep finding new ways to be yourself. Get out there and try new things. You may get it right, or you may screw it up, but at least you're doing something different with the same character you've always had.

Chris Bauge

1. Favorite school subject:

My favorite subjects are Band, Chemistry, and Biology.

2. Most influential class(es) and/or teacher(s)

I appreciate all of the teachers and classes I've had at BHS. Ms. Vultaggio and Mr. Reynolds helped me develop my writing voice. Ms. Saxena opened my eyes to future careers in science and kept me curious in AP Bio. Ms. White made APUSH come alive remotely, hybrid, and in person. I also aspire to eat as much sugary cereal as and harvest the energy of Mr. Moresco.

3. Extracurriculars that have been meaningful to you:

I loved serving as president of the Student Senate last year and am excited to be public relations officer for AAC and swim team captain this year. I also enjoy being a band mentor and ELE tutor for younger students.

4. What are you most proud of doing or being part of, either at BHS or in the community?

I am most proud of my involvement with Best Buddies for the past 8 years. I was a peer buddy for the program in middle school; and during the pandemic, created a bi-monthly virtual Best Buddies At Home program with interactive activities for students, peer buddies, and teachers. I also participate in the PALS club at the high school. 

5. What are you passionate about?

I am very passionate about music, especially jazz. I spend a lot of my time at the New England Conservatory, in Ms. Lacasse's band room (the best room), or on the field as drum major conducting the marching band. It makes me happy to be able to share the joy of music with the community and support our awesome sports teams. 

6. What words of wisdom would you like to leave for other BHS students?

Put energy and effort into what you do, and it will feel rewarding in the end. Surround yourself with people that uplift you and also challenge you. Be positive and give everything a chance at BHS because you may find something surprising that you never thought would inspire you.