How the other half studies: An interview with an Albanian teen, Ergi Hysa

Olivia Harrison
Staff Writer

As American teenagers, we do not really focus on what is going on in the world. We are very consumed with what is going on in our community, social media, classes, getting into college, and fitting in. But, we never really focus on what it would be like to not grow up in America. We rarely think about our European counterparts. To find out what it’s like to grow up in another country and the similarities they have with us, I interviewed my good friend Ergi Hysa from Tirana, Albania. Albania was established in 1912 and located in the Balkan’s of Europe.
  It has many cultural traditions, and a lot of people are still trying to keep those traditions alive. Ergi is fifteen years old and is in high school. His life is very similar  to ours with some important differences. While we might be worrying about how many views we get on a Tik Tok or what someone has said about how we look, they might be more focused on studying abroad and the future for their country.  They are also focused on preventing the earlier influences of communism from coming back in Albania. I had a few questions to ask my friend about his life in Albania and I was amazed to hear the answers.
  Ergi is growing up in the Albanian capital city, Tirana. He’s in tenth grade (or to us, a sophmore), which is his first year of high school. In Albania, the education system is very different and they use different terminology than Americans. As Ergi explained, school starts off as something called vjeçare or the “nine years”. The first five years of his schooling are elementary level education or fillore, and the other four years are what Americans call middle school. Then, you move onto high school. However, in Albania, what Americans call high school is actually considered college or university in Albania, and middle school to Albanians is considered high school. Unlike the American education system, elementary school and middle school are combined together. I was very confused on how this all worked and especially the names of things, but eventually I figured out how it works after some indepth research.
  Much like his American counterparts, Ergi says that school is very important to him and he plans to go to college after high school. He either plans to study technology and computers, diplomacy, or sociology. He knows for certain that if he goes into technology, he will study abroad at a university in Vienna, Austria. Since Ergi is getting ready to go to college, he explained how different the college process is from the U.S. He says, “It works like this:  To get into college, you need both good grades and social credits. They count 60% of the requirements as grades and state tests.  40%of the requirements are social credits (joining activities etc).  Having good grades is really important but a B student with great social credits and extracurriculars can win over an A student with no social credits. So even though having good extra curriculars is great, studying and getting good grades is important. Some branches (majors) and universities require lower scores but others require higher scores. There’s a lot of debate about this system, a lot of us don’t like it.” In conclusion, the college process in Albania is just as hard as the college process in the United States!
  When Ergi isn’t in school, he is involved in extracurriculars that most American teens would find familiar. Ergi is involved in an organization called Theatre Beyond Borders, in which actors from the  countries Albania, Serbia, Kosovo and Montenegro perform plays together. Back in the day, there were a lot of border disputes in the Balkans, and this led to war between Albania, Kosovo and Serbia. Because of this, there is a lot of tension between Serbians and Albanians. “When people do theatre, they have to work together. This project and organization will help bring us more together after all the conflicts in the region,” Ergi said. Ergi also runs a popular history account on instagram called @Aint.Doing.History and a Youtube channel of the same name.  He quotes, “The Instagram account has been growing quite fast and it’s active and healthy. The Youtube channel is quite passive although I really want to make it more active. I have two videos coming up about Iran and the twentieth century US.”
  When asked about his thoughts of America, Ergi had a lot to say, “We here [in Albania] hold an image of ‘great America’, like that everything is easier. For example those from Albania who have the opportunity to come to America we call “shpetoi” or “i’a hodhi, which means he or she has a better life. Shepetoi literally means “got saved”. You all don’t know how much we idolize you. When I was little, I wanted to become President of the United States.  My mom crushed my dreams by saying you had to be born there.  But recently, my family and I are coming to our senses because having relatives in the U.S. tell us that it isn’t a fairy tale and it’s hard over there too.”
  Ergi and his family are planning to get visas to come to the US and eventually become citizens. It is a complex and very long process. “Right now, we are currently through the process of “family union”. If I go that way, it will take 4-6 years. There is another option which is through school. I’d stay with my uncle in Long Island and attend university before my parents and my brother Rajan arrive. My dad wanted me to go to high school in America, but my mom disapproved of that. She feared we were going to disconnect.”
  For now, Ergi is living life in Albania and hoping the best for the future of his country. I asked him if he saw himself and his generation as the future of Albania, but he had some concerns.
 “I don’t think so, but I do hope that maybe we can make a difference. Lots of the younger generation in Albania are starting to lose some of the traditions that we once held. After the fall of communism in Albania, we took all the modernization and western influence we could get. However, it hasn’t gone well and we have lost some traditions because of that. In My hometown, Tirana, the youth mainly follows these trends just to look cool. I’m not saying that trends are bad, it’s just that we are losing traditions and the culture we once had. And, I feel as people start following trends, they won’t be leaders and individuals. Being a follower instead of a leader is not good for a nation. At this time I feel as if some of our traditions may fade because of globalization and assimilation and because everyone is just following trends and such.”
  Ergi hopes to make a difference and keep the traditions and culture of Albania alive while keeping up with the rest of the world.  Although we may come from different countries, we are all still teenagers and we are the future of our countries and the world. Together, we can put the differences aside and maybe make an impact on our world and shape it for the next generation to come.

Fun Pastimes to Enjoy While At Home

Kaylee Lynch & Lucie MacGillvray
Staff Writers

During times like these, it is really important to look around and think about what is important to you. For most of us, not being in a school was a shock and somewhat of a surprise, but there are definitely positives to this way of life and we just have to look at them. Here are some ideas and activities you can do to keep occupied and enjoy during this time away from being in school.
  Number one is to get cleaning! It is true that activities after school take time away from house chores. So now that we have the time, it is important to help our parents out! Try doing the dishes for a change or folding laundry. It will truly help you in the future when you have to do these things on your own. Also cleaning the windows with windex, or cleaning out your room will be a way to use your time productively and it really makes a difference! So get to it!
  Another great idea is to play games. Try playing real life games instead of the ones on the computer and phones. Maybe break out Monopoly or the boardgame Life.  It is also fun to play trivia or do something you used to when you were younger like hide and seek. Time is ticking away, so get moving!
  If you’d rather devote your time into something creative, try picking up a new hobby, such as drawing, learning card tricks or maybe even cooking! Different activities are always a blast to do. So ask your family to join in on the fun!
  Those who have homework during this time, listen up!  Now is the perfect time to get caught up on homework and other make-up work. Make sure to attend your online classes and zoom sessions!
  If you’re looking for a relaxing activity to do, consider starting to watch a new show or reading a new book while staying inside! If you’re looking for a funny show, try the Impractical Jokers or Brooklyn Nine-Nine! There are a boat load of choices to rewatch or begin watching. Ever hear of The Office? The main character Michael Scott is a riot and you are sure to have a good time!
    Even though we aren’t supposed to go outside and travel it is always nice to go for a bike ride or play frisbee. There are nearby parks that offer activities like these, for instance Peace Valley Park, Tyler Park, and Tinicum. If those places are not an option for you, you always have sidewalks and roadways to go walking or biking! Or even in your own backyard! So go fly a kite or take a walk while this warm weather is taking place!
  Most importantly, during this time, make sure you’re staying safe! Try to stay away from large groups and practice healthy habits. Also, wash your hands! Spend some time having fun and getting organized. We hope to see everyone back in school as soon as possible. In the meantime, enjoy your time at home with your family!

Baby Yoda Steals the Show

Ian Mendola

Staff Writer

As the launch of Disney Plus has arrived, there have been many fan favorites that have been released, including instant classics such as the marvel movies and thirty seasons of The Simpsons. However, there has been one show in particular that has attracted more attention than anything else on the platform. 

The Mandolorian is a new spin-off series from the Star Wars universe. After the stories of Jango and Boba Fett, another Mandalorian armor-wearing warrior emerged in the Star Wars galaxy. The Mandalorian setting is after the fall of the Empire, and before the emergence of the First Order. It follows the travails of a lone gunfighter in the outer reaches of the galaxy, far from the authority of the New Republic.

This show has released seven chapters of its first season so far, and the craze has all been about one certain character. The unexpected baby Yoda has entered the series as a bounty prize by being captured by the Mandalorian. He works for the guild and takes these jobs as his source of income. But this little green guy has won the hearts of millions as the show revolves around protecting him. 

This is a fantastic show to binge watch in one sitting or watch over a long period of time, with its episodes being around thirty to forty minutes long each.  Each episode consists of captivating scenes and plenty of action that will leave you on the edge of your seat for the entire screening.

Trying to keep his life in order, while simultaneously taking care of his “kid,” lead him to go on plenty of unsuspected journeys throughout the galaxy.  As he keeps baby Yoda from all harm, who knows where the next episode will take him? 

Exploring a Better Approach to Manage Your New Year’s resolutions

Devon Beacham

Staff Writer 

The New Year is approaching, ideas for resolutions are lurking, and maybe even surrendered by now, and if not now, then probably sometime soon. New Year's resolutions always seem to last temporarily. Of course, it is nice to think of improvement and act on it, but the unfortunate truth is not everyone can always follow through with those intentions! Some cliché resolutions usually are regarding one’s health, such as eating healthier and finally joining the gym. Why are New Year's resolutions yearly? Because they never follow through the entire year! Individuals can maintain their goals and overall create a better lifestyle for themselves. But, what is the difference between the successful goals and those that often ultimately lead to failure?

  It seems the most efficient and achievable resolutions are by making measurable ones. Rather than creating a goal such as “being more active,” one could make their resolution “exercise for one hour every day.” Instead of saying “make healthier choices,” have a goal of “eating at least one vegetable at every meal.” Instead of “lose weight,” one could plan to “lose 10 pounds.” By setting a target that people can make sure they can achieve, it is simpler for them to push themselves to complete it and mentally check it off when they’re done and further their goals after the first are achieved. If someone is trying to structure a goal that they are able to accomplish, the best choice is to make it measurable. A goal that one can look back on after many days have passed and know for sure whether or not he or she has fulfilled is more likely to end in success.

Mustang Enters New Era with the “Mach E”

AJ Oaks and Mike Janora

Staff Writers

On Nov. 17, 2019 The Ford Motor Co. announced the new 2020 Ford Mach E Mustang. The “E” standing for electric. Ford announced the vehicle at an event live-streamed by more than 140,000. The night of the event, Ford said that they would start taking $500 reservations for the vehicle. “Unlike a lot of the electric competition from automakers like Audi, Mercedes-Benz, or Jaguar, the Mustang Mach-E will be offered in a slew of variants and trims, to an almost dizzying degree. Ford will sell versions of the five-seater SUV that can travel 210 miles on a full battery, and also ones that go 300 miles. One of the Mustang Mach-E options will beat most sports cars from 0 to 60 miles per hour, while others will just barely edge out a Chevy Bolt. Some ship in late 2020, and some in Spring 2021,” said The Verge. The prices vary for the different configurations. The base model will start at $43,895, also dubbed as the “Select” model, and will start shipping in Spring 2021.

  The other models get more expensive as you add more options to the car. The next level up is the “Premium” model that starts to ship in late 2020. The base price of the “Premium” model is $50,600. That’s a $6,705 increase in one model change that offers the same bells and whistles, but offers a 30-mile range increase on a single charge. There is also the option of paying more and adding the 98.8kWh extended range pack. The maximum range is 300 miles with the “extended range pack” option with the standard RWD (Rear Wheel Drive) transmission.

“Both AWD versions of the Premium Mustang Mach-E are supposed to be able to get from 0 to 60 mph in the mid-five second range, while the RWD versions sit in the mid sixes. (Horsepower varies throughout between 255HP and 333HP.) Again, customers will be presented  ,with the same basic tradeoffs: would you rather have a little more performance at the expense of range? Or would you rather have a bit more range at the expense of performance?”The Verge. 

  The California Route 1 Mustang Mach-E will ship in early 2021, it starts at $52,400, and only comes in the RWD configuration with the extended range battery pack. Ford estimates it will get 300 miles of range and put out 282 horsepower. The $59,900 First Edition is a limited production initial run version of the Mustang Mach-E coming in late 2020, alongside the Premium model. The First Edition comes with the AWD configuration, and also with the extended range pack for 270 miles of range and 333 horsepower. It will come with special “First Edition” labels, brushed aluminum pedals, red brake calipers, and be available in a bright blue paint job that is exclusive to the “First Edition” Model. 

  Then there’s the GT. This model is the fastest, most powerful, and most expensive model out of all of the Mach-E Mustangs. It only comes in AWD (All Wheel Drive) and starts at $60,500, it also comes with special GT badging and a metallic-looking front grille. It only squeezes about 250 miles out of the extended range battery pack, but that’s because it’s tuned for performance. In fact, while the other AWD versions use different motors for the rear, 210 kW, and front, 50kW, axles, the GT uses the bigger electric motor on both, giving this version 459 total horsepower, allowing the GT model to go from 0 to 60mph in a little under four seconds. If that’s still not enough, a GT Performance trim will make the car go from 0 to 60 in just over three seconds.

Exploring a Better Approach to Manage Your New Year’s resolutions

Devon Beacham

Staff Writers 

The New Year is approaching, ideas for resolutions are lurking, and maybe even surrendered by now, and if not now, then probably sometime soon. New Year's resolutions always seem to last temporarily. Of course, it is nice to think of improvement and act on it, but the unfortunate truth is not everyone can always follow through with those intentions! Some cliché resolutions usually are regarding one’s health, such as eating healthier and finally joining the gym. Why are New Year's resolutions yearly? Because they never follow through the entire year! Individuals can maintain their goals and overall create a better lifestyle for themselves. But, what is the difference between the successful goals and those that often ultimately lead to failure?

It seems the most efficient and achievable resolutions are by making measurable ones. Rather than creating a goal such as “being more active,” one could make their resolution “exercise for one hour every day.” Instead of saying “make healthier choices,” have a goal of “eating at least one vegetable at every meal.” Instead of “lose weight,” one could plan to “lose 10 pounds.” By setting a target that people can make sure they can achieve, it is simpler for them to push themselves to complete it and mentally check it off when they’re done and further their goals after the first are achieved. If someone is trying to structure a goal that they are able to accomplish, the best choice is to make it measurable.

A goal that one can look back on after many days have passed and know for sure whether or not he or she has fulfilled is more likely to end in success.

Mustang Enters New Era with the “Mach E”

AJ Oakes & Mike Janora

Staff Writers

On Nov. 17, 2019 The Ford Motor Co. announced the new 2020 Ford Mach E Mustang. The “E” standing for electric. Ford announced the vehicle at an event live-streamed by more than 140,000. The night of the event, Ford said that they would start taking $500 reservations for the vehicle. “Unlike a lot of the electric competition from automakers like Audi, Mercedes-Benz, or Jaguar, the Mustang Mach-E will be offered in a slew of variants and trims, to an almost dizzying degree. Ford will sell versions of the five-seater SUV that can travel 210 miles on a full battery, and also ones that go 300 miles. One of the Mustang Mach-E options will beat most sports cars from 0 to 60 miles per hour, while others will just barely edge out a Chevy Bolt. Some ship in late 2020, and some in Spring 2021,” said The Verge. The prices vary for the different configurations. The base model will start at $43,895, also dubbed as the “Select” model, and will start shipping in Spring 2021.

  The other models get more expensive as you add more options to the car. The next level up is the “Premium” model that starts to ship in late 2020. The base price of the “Premium” model is $50,600. That’s a $6,705 increase in one model change that offers the same bells and whistles, but offers a 30-mile range increase on a single charge. There is also the option of paying more and adding the 98.8kWh extended range pack. The maximum range is 300 miles with the “extended range pack” option with the standard RWD (Rear Wheel Drive) transmission.

“Both AWD versions of the Premium Mustang Mach-E are supposed to be able to get from 0 to 60 mph in the mid-five second range, while the RWD versions sit in the mid sixes. (Horsepower varies throughout between 255HP and 333HP.) Again, customers will be presented  ,with the same basic tradeoffs: would you rather have a little more performance at the expense of range? Or would you rather have a bit more range at the expense of performance?”The Verge. 

  The California Route 1 Mustang Mach-E will ship in early 2021, it starts at $52,400, and only comes in the RWD configuration with the extended range battery pack. Ford estimates it will get 300 miles of range and put out 282 horsepower. The $59,900 First Edition is a limited production initial run version of the Mustang Mach-E coming in late 2020, alongside the Premium model. The First Edition comes with the AWD configuration, and also with the extended range pack for 270 miles of range and 333 horsepower. It will come with special “First Edition” labels, brushed aluminum pedals, red brake calipers, and be available in a bright blue paint job that is exclusive to the “First Edition” Model. 

  Then there’s the GT. This model is the fastest, most powerful, and most expensive model out of all of the Mach-E Mustangs. It only comes in AWD (All Wheel Drive) and starts at $60,500, it also comes with special GT badging and a metallic-looking front grille. It only squeezes about 250 miles out of the extended range battery pack, but that’s because it’s tuned for performance. In fact, while the other AWD versions use different motors for the rear, 210 kW, and front, 50kW, axles, the GT uses the bigger electric motor on both, giving this version 459 total horsepower, allowing the GT model to go from 0 to 60mph in a little under four seconds. If that’s still not enough, a GT Performance trim will make the car go from 0 to 60 in just over three seconds.