theater behind the scenes
STUDENT LIFE Sia Kresch STUDENT LIFE Sia Kresch

theater behind the scenes

On Nov. 11, Samo Theater hosted its closing show of The Outsiders. As the audience applauded the actors and actresses, many students were working hard behind the scenes to make this play possible. Creating alluring characters through their costumes, makeup, props and more, the cast and crew of Samo’s theater program spent weeks preparing their debut.

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UBSUC vice president elected from Samo
STUDENT LIFE Hope Wang STUDENT LIFE Hope Wang

UBSUC vice president elected from Samo

On Nov. 16, Aaliyah McGee (’26) was elected as the second Vice President of Southern California for the United Black Student Unionion, representing Samo on the USBC Board. UBSUC is a platform for Black students all across California, which is divided into three regions: Northern, Central, and Southern. McGee is a part of the Southern region, where many high schools gather for conferences, workshops, and networking events. The board members are responsible for organizing these events, reaching out to colleges for space and speakers, and providing resources such as scholarships and internships for students.

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Small acts make big impacts
STUDENT LIFE Hope Wang, Staff Writer STUDENT LIFE Hope Wang, Staff Writer

Small acts make big impacts

As the holiday season approaches, students can agree on the importance of giving back. Volunteering allows you to give back to the community by helping others or making a positive impact, no matter how small. It offers a meaningful opportunity to help others and make a positive impact on the community. Nevertheless, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved. Here are some great places to volunteer and make the most of your winter break!

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School abroad vs. America: students share their experiences
STUDENT LIFE Arata Sakamoto, Staff Writer STUDENT LIFE Arata Sakamoto, Staff Writer

School abroad vs. America: students share their experiences

The student body at Santa Monica High School reflects a diverse community of peers from different cultures, backgrounds, and even countries. While many students have lived in America their whole lives, others have been students around the world, bringing an international perspective to their education at Samo.

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STUDENT LIFE Kamerin Shakir, Staff Writer STUDENT LIFE Kamerin Shakir, Staff Writer

Different ThanksGiving Cultures

Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude and community , whether you visit Marelle Santa Monica for their famous thanksgiving brunch or have a large gathering with loved ones and a traditional dinner , thanksgiving is a cherished holiday in America, which is celebrated in various forms that reflect diverse cultural values and traditions. American Thanksgiving is traditionally marked by the huge turkey sitting on the table for Thanksgiving dinner, pumpkin pie , gatherings between family and friends and traditional decorations such as accents of brown and orange to represent the fall leaves, and mini pilgrim hats and turkeys to showcase American history. However, many other cultures have various ways of representing thanks and celebrating their harvest. From the vibrant festivals of India to the communal feasts in Japan, each celebration offers a glimpse into the heart of its people and now explores the different ways cultures celebrate Thanksgiving, delving into their unique traditions, foods, rituals, and festivals that embody the spirit of thankfulness.

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Lights, camera, Viking TV
STUDENT LIFE Laurel Cohn, Staff Writer STUDENT LIFE Laurel Cohn, Staff Writer

Lights, camera, Viking TV

The new elective Film & Video has brought a fresh set of skills to Samo students. Film and Video teacher Ruth Carters’ classes are dedicated to teaching students film & video production. The Film & Video elective is currently working on a show, set to broadcast in the spring, enlightening students on the goings on at Samo.

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HOTLB: College Fear Hits Seniors
STUDENT LIFE manny lopez STUDENT LIFE manny lopez

HOTLB: College Fear Hits Seniors

The college application process is in full swing at Samo, with seniors sending in applications as soon as Nov. 1. As Samo seniors write essays, assemble their applications and visit potential colleges, worries about life away from home arise. Moving across the country, leaving family and friends and simply surviving alone are common fears of the college-bound class.

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samo’s fashionistas stitch it to fast fashion
STUDENT LIFE Addy Fiore, Staff Writer STUDENT LIFE Addy Fiore, Staff Writer

samo’s fashionistas stitch it to fast fashion

In a world dominated by fast fashion, a growing number of Samo students are taking matters into their own hands - literally. Whether it's driven by a desire for sustainability, personalized style or creative expression, these students are joining a movement that values individuality and mindful consumption. Beyond creating handmade pieces it can also foster a deeper connection with both the clothes they craft as well as purchase, it makes them think about the longevity of their clothes and quality. 

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Samo focuses on building a healthier coastal environment
STUDENT LIFE Laurel Cohn STUDENT LIFE Laurel Cohn

Samo focuses on building a healthier coastal environment

Heal the Bay had its 35th yearly coastal cleanup on Sept. 21 in recognition of the international holiday, Annual Coastal Cleanup Day. Heal the Bay will also be trying to raise $35,000 to provide these kinds of cleanups year-round. With over 60 different cleanup sites to choose from, everyone can help remove 2 million pounds of trash from LA County waterways. With numerous other programs and activities to get involved with, there’s something for everyone.

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