![“[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)
With Thanksgiving looming, students expressed gratitude for a variety of aspects in their life, ranging from their families to the Internet. Out of 130 students polled, the top three selections were family with 24 percent of the votes, school with 19 percent, and friends with 17 percent.
Family
The largest number of students felt thankful for their families and the encouragement they provide. Several students believe that in times of struggle, their families remain a constant, comforting group. Some also describe their families as motivational and appreciate their support.
“I’m really lucky to have a family that will always support me and my dreams,” Sahana Narayan (9) said.
Families, especially parents, often perform a lot of tasks without receiving any acknowledgement. The little things parents do, such as driving their children to school, are often overlooked. This Thanksgiving, consider conveying thanks for parents and siblings by treating them to a luxurious breakfast in bed or doing an extra load of laundry.
Education
Students are also grateful to be able to attend school. Regardless of all the stress caused by homework and tests, students still think that quality education is a privilege which they are fortunate to have. In addition, many students feel that the Upper School provides a unique environment filled with various academic possibilities.
“The fact that I go to Harker gives me opportunities that students in other schools might not have,” Arthur Shau (11) said.
Teachers also deserve to be recognized. A simple “Thank you” card will go a long way and is sure to touch the hearts of educators.
Friendship
Finally, students voiced gratitude for their friendships. Several students believe that their friendships have strengthened through difficult times. Many students also compared their friends to a family at school.
“I’m grateful for [the] friends who have stayed by my side through thick and thin. That’s something rare, and worth celebrating,” Joseph Wang (12) said.
Thank friends by telling them how much their friendship means. Friends will appreciate the thought and sincerity behind any gift, but a heartfelt gesture is all the more special.
These are not the only three things for which the student body is thankful for. A noticeable minority is thankful for life, food, and of course, the Internet. Take into consideration ways to thank others, and give people the recognition they deserve this Thanksgiving.
