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The School Newspaper of Southwest Career and Technical Academy.

Southwest Shadow

Southwest Shadow

Southwest Shadow

Throughout adolescence, we tend to take on new identities that eventually form who we are as adults. However, looking back on one's childhood by flipping through photo albums and reminiscing about the past reminds us of what made us who we are today.
Photo Credit: Summer Thomad

Figuring It Out

November 4, 2014
Adolescence is a process of forming an identity, rather than just a moment in time.
Taylor Swift's album, Red, constitutes as my favorite album ever released by the artist.  Photo Credit: Matthew Nedelcu

Taylor Swift is my hero

November 4, 2014
As someone who experienced bullying, Taylor Swift's music has helped me overcome my demons.
When debates start to get heated, many of us choose the position of neutrality rather than picking a side to avoid getting involved.

Neutrality: The easy (and oppressive) way out

Summer Thomad
October 29, 2014
While neutrality may seem like the easiest and best option, it can lead to greater dangers.
I was not aware that my beverage of choice (pictured above) was actually a non-GMO product, and though I am not necessarily strict on regarding a diet of no GMO's, it does make me feel better to drink it.  Photo Credit: Alex Nedelcu

Genetically modified… WHAT?

October 23, 2014
A stern customer's request resulted in extensive research regarding GMO's.
Noticing some serious dark circles? Great! This is a physical sign that shows how dedicated you are to the path of success!

How to be a successful student

Summer Thomad
October 21, 2014
In order to make it in this world, there are certain steps that must be followed.
College Night provides a great opportunity for parents and students to look into future education and career options together. 
Photo Credit: Alexis Drevetzki

Work for passion, not for parents

Summer Thomad
October 17, 2014
When it comes to their child's future career choices, some parents take full control rather than allowing their children to pursue the career of their choice.
Not that I consider myself to be more superstitious than the average teenage girl, but burning sage onto the Halloween decorations that are hung on my house seems like the best idea to help me overcome my fear.  Photo Credit: Alex Nedelcu

This is Halloween

October 16, 2014
Halloween is approaching quickly, and I am growing more frightful at the holiday's scary festivities.
Now that I have the ability of finally wearing a senior crown, I am overwhelmed and overjoyed that I am growing out of high school.  Photo Credit: Summer Thomad

The truth about senior year

October 9, 2014
Although from outside it has seemed to be a breeze, senior year is more of a hurricane.
Although the end is near for both these programs, Glee and Parks and Recreation have stood out as shows that will stay with me forever.
Photo Credit: Alex Nedelcu

Parasocial Relationships Evident in Media Forms

Summer Thomad
October 1, 2014
With the beginning of the end approaching for two of my favorite television series, the realization that everything ends has become more tangible.
As a feminist myself, I was intrigued to hear about the HeForShe campaign.  Photo Credit: Rebecca Live

I am a feminist

Alex Nedelcu
October 1, 2014
Being a feminist has been a calling of mine, and it was emphasized this past weekend.
Although being an Eminem fan may seem out of character for someone like myself, I embrace it as a part of who I am instead of passing it off as a guilty pleasure.
Photo Credit: Summer Thomad

Guiltless Pleasures

Summer Thomad
September 24, 2014
Passing off interests as “guilty pleasures,” instead of embracing them as a part of who you are may stand as a barrier to personal growth.
Love for inanimate objects is completely acceptable and recommended, such as my love for capturing moments on polaroid film and my record player.  Photo Credit: Alex Nedelcu

Watch out for the big, bad… LOVE?

September 19, 2014
During my freshman year, I wore my pride on my sleeve, especially when it came to love.