![“[Building nerf blasters] became this outlet of creativity for me that hasn't been matched by anything else. The process [of] making a build complete to your desire is such a painstakingly difficult process, but I've had to learn from [the skills needed from] soldering to proper painting. There's so many different options for everything, if you think about it, it exists. The best part is [that] if it doesn't exist, you can build it yourself," Ishaan Parate said.](https://harkeraquila.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/DSC_8149-900x604.jpg)
![“When I came into high school, I was ready to be a follower. But DECA was a game changer for me. It helped me overcome my fear of public speaking, and it's played such a major role in who I've become today. To be able to successfully lead a chapter of 150 students, an officer team and be one of the upperclassmen I once really admired is something I'm [really] proud of,” Anvitha Tummala ('21) said.](https://harkeraquila.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Screen-Shot-2021-07-25-at-9.50.05-AM-900x594.png)
![“I think getting up in the morning and having a sense of purpose [is exciting]. I think without a certain amount of drive, life is kind of obsolete and mundane, and I think having that every single day is what makes each day unique and kind of makes life exciting,” Neymika Jain (12) said.](https://harkeraquila.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/Screen-Shot-2017-06-03-at-4.54.16-PM.png)
![“My slogan is ‘slow feet, don’t eat, and I’m hungry.’ You need to run fast to get where you are–you aren't going to get those championships if you aren't fast,” Angel Cervantes (12) said. “I want to do well in school on my tests and in track and win championships for my team. I live by that, [and] I can do that anywhere: in the classroom or on the field.”](https://harkeraquila.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/DSC5146-900x601.jpg)
![“[Volleyball has] taught me how to fall correctly, and another thing it taught is that you don’t have to be the best at something to be good at it. If you just hit the ball in a smart way, then it still scores points and you’re good at it. You could be a background player and still make a much bigger impact on the team than you would think,” Anya Gert (’20) said.](https://harkeraquila.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/AnnaGert_JinTuan_HoHPhotoEdited-600x900.jpeg)
![“I'm not nearly there yet, but [my confidence has] definitely been getting better since I was pretty shy and timid coming into Harker my freshman year. I know that there's a lot of people that are really confident in what they do, and I really admire them. Everyone's so driven and that has really pushed me to kind of try to find my own place in high school and be more confident,” Alyssa Huang (’20) said.](https://harkeraquila.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/AlyssaHuang_EmilyChen_HoHPhoto-900x749.jpeg)
How to beat the heat with summer clothing
Freshmen Natalie Simonian and Malvika Khanna wear dresses and skirts for the warm weather. Polka dots are perfect for the heat, as they are stylish while providing an escape from the heat.
Sweatshirts and jeans no more! The weather is heating up and it is time to take those dresses out of the closet.
For some students, the transition between cold and hot weather can be a tiresome phase of finding new clothes to wear. These tips will help you dress for the heat.
1. Light material
The best way to be comfortable in the heat is to wear clothes that are made of cotton. Heavy materials can stick with your skin and make you feel hot.
2. Colors
Wearing dark shades of black and purple can intensify the sensation of heat. Opt to wear brighter colors such as red, white, and green.
3. Skirts
For girls, flowy skirts paired with a nice blouse make a fashionable yet comfortable outfit for the heat. Remember to abide by the dress code when wearing skirts!
4. Shorts
If jeans are your staple clothing, but they are too thick to wear in the hot weather, do not worry! Jean shorts are a wonderful alternative to wearing jeans. They provide the feel of jeans with the comfort of cooling your legs off.
5. Dresses
Dresses for girls can be considered a classic for the warm weather. Whether it is made of lace or leather, dresses are mostly lightweight and made for the hot weather.
6. Sandals
Sandals are perfect footwear in the heat. Sneakers and converse do not work well in hot weather, but open footwear with back straps help to keep you from overheating.
Do not forget to use sunscreen while following these fashion tips!
Ayushi Gautam (12) is the Managing Editor of Harker Aquila. She has been a part of the journalism program since her freshman year. She was the Social Media...