![Setter Emma Lee (9) sets the ball to the middle during the match against Pinewood on Sept. 12. “[I’m looking forward to] getting more skilled, learning more about my position and also becoming better friends with all of my teammates, Emma said.](https://harkeraquila.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/DSC_4917-2-1200x795.jpg)
![“[Building nerf blasters] became this outlet of creativity for me that hasnt been matched by anything else. The process [of] making a build complete to your desire is such a painstakingly difficult process, but Ive had to learn from [the skills needed from] soldering to proper painting. Theres so many different options for everything, if you think about it, it exists. The best part is [that] if it doesnt exist, you can build it yourself, Ishaan Parate said.](https://harkeraquila.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/DSC_8149-900x604.jpg)
![“Animation just clicked in a way. I had been interested in art, but that felt different. [Animation] felt like it had something behind it, whereas previous things felt surface level. I wasnt making that crazy of things, but just the process of doing it was much more enjoyable, Carter Chadwick (22) said.](https://harkeraquila.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Screen-Shot-2022-08-16-at-9.44.08-AM-900x598.png)
![“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 its played such a major role in who Ive 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 Im [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)
![“[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)
![“Im 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 theres a lot of people that are really confident in what they do, and I really admire them. Everyones 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)
![“My slogan is ‘slow feet, don’t eat, and I’m hungry.’ You need to run fast to get where you are–you arent going to get those championships if you arent 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)
![“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)
4 ways to sleep better
After a tiring school day, a comfortable bed beckons students. Make sure to wash sheets and pillows regularly to ensure proper sleep hygiene.
Because stress and high workloads pervade the student body, it is important to sleep wellevery single night. To sleep well and prepare for a hectic school day, use these simple tips to ensure a refreshing night of sleep.
Put Electronics Away
It is no secret that electronics provide a large distraction for students attempting to sleep. Five minutes on the computer before sleeping quickly turns into an hour of wasted time. The best way to avoid the temptation of using a cell phone or laptop right before going to sleep is to place it well out of reach from the bed, such as on a desk. Tiredness will deter students from getting up from their bed to use their electronics.
Drink Something Soothing
Natural herbs found in many teas can also assist students assist in falling asleep faster. Ingredients such as chamomile and lavender are commonly found in soothing teas. Make sure that the tea does not contain any caffeine. To yield best results, heat water in a microwave for about 45 seconds on a high setting and allow the tea bag to steep for at least three minutes.
Exercise During the Day
Many studies have shown that exercise can be linked to better sleep habits. Even a twenty minute bike ride or run will contribute to a more effective night of sleep. In addition to aiding in sleep, regular exercise is also a key part of a healthy lifestyle. Be sure to avoid exercising directly before sleeping because exercise stimulates the body for a short period after.
Stop Worrying
Worries, stress, and anxiety are enemies of rest and sleep. Worrying about troublesome situations will do nothing to alter their outcomes. Instead, try writing down sources of stress and corresponding ways to reduce anxiety before turning in. By doing so, students will be able to put an end to their troubles and can enjoy a peaceful night of sleep.
Maya Jeyendran (11) is the Lifestyle Editor of Harker Aquila. She been a part of Harker's journalism program since her freshman year, and has previously...
