![“[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)
Hidden gems in the Bay Area to explore on your next quarantine adventure
February 26, 2021
On March 13, 2020, Harker made the announcement that they would be transitioning to a virtual learning environment. Although there was some apprehension about the impending pandemic, the thrilling idea of attending school in pajamas and no longer having daily 45 minute commutes put smiles on students’ faces as they left campus that Thursday. However, if after quarantining at home for the past 351 days you crave a change of scenery, you’re not alone!
There are many places to explore nearby. All across the Bay Area lie hidden gems, places that shouldn’t be missed but are often overlooked. We’ve curated a list of the top gems you should visit to escape from the repetitive monotony of your time at home.
1. Wilder Ranch State Park
Looking for a perfect, socially distanced beach trip? Wilder Ranch State Park is just the place for you. Even in the winter, the air is warm with just a hint of a breeze. After walking along the cliffside that perfectly overlooks the sparkling blue Pacific, climb down a quiet, secluded path into a small stretch of sand. The soothing sound of waves crashing against the shore echo throughout the cliff sides. From the stunning scenery to the serenity, this “secret” cove is a perfect way to spend quality time with your loved ones.
2. Pace Art and Technology Museum
On the outside, the Pace Art and Technology Museum looks like any other building on Hamilton Avenue, but one look inside will reveal that the gallery is anything but that. From the aesthetic and interactive displays to the elaborate mazes filled with artwork, it’s hard to pick just one remarkable aspect of the museum. One thing’s for sure: the unique fusion of art, animation and technology makes for an incredible experience that no one should miss out on.
3. Sausalito and Marin Headlands
Right across the Golden Gate Bridge lies the town of Sausalito and the Marin Headlands, tucked away from the busy city of San Francisco. Marin Headlands is filled with scenic drives and numerous beaches including Black Sand Beach. While Sausalito is slightly farther than the city of San Francisco, grabbing take-out food from restaurants in town and picnicking on the beach is the perfect way to spend a warm, sunny day.
4. Silver Creek: “Sunset Spots”
The Silver Creek and Evergreen area in San Jose has many hills that are perfect for picnics, watching the sunset, and photoshoots with friends. Park on Whitetail Lane near the Ranch Golf Club and set down a blanket on the grass to watch the sun set over the entire Bay Area. In addition to the amber evening sky, the vines and arches by the golf club create a picturesque backdrop for Instagram photos.
5. Somi Somi at Main Street
Right in the middle of Main Street in Cupertino is Somi Somi: a unique Korean dessert shop that serves the traditional Korean “Ah-Boong,” a fish-shaped waffle cone that can be filled with a variety of fillings and soft-serve ice creams. The warmth of the soft cone along with the cold ice cream creates the perfect delicacy. Whether there’s a celebration coming up around the corner or you’re just really craving something sweet, Somi Somi’s original and delicious treats are perfect for the occasion.
6. The Pilgrim’s Way in Carmel
A little over an hour away from the Bay Area, Carmel holds countless places to explore such as the beach, cute cafes and small businesses like the bookstore The Pilgrim’s Way. The town is full of tucked away alleys to venture through, and towards the back of the store is a secret garden. Make sure to plan a full-day trip and bring a camera, as there are many opportunities to take aesthetic photos.
