By Gilli Aquino

What comes to mind when you picture a core memory? Surely, for most students of the Ateneo Senior High School (ASHS), days of confounding quizzes and tight deadlines would not usually fit the regular description for this. When caught in the frenzy of academic stress, it is easy to feel a sense of dread and anxiety as you walk into the classroom for another day. 

While it would be an understatement to say that the academic calendar of the ASHS is quite overwhelming, tucked in between these regular days are rare opportunities to stand still amidst the hustle and bustle of the ASHS — days that grant us the chance to create core memories. 

Call to Serve

Every year, the ASHS participates in the Katipunan Fund Drive (KFD), a fundraising activity that allows each class to create a booth of its own to raise funds for those affected by calamities. Whether this be delectable snacks and beverages, or uniquely designed clothes and merchandise — students are encouraged to utilize skills of business, creativity, and teamwork. Here, students are not only given the chance to gain entrepreneurship experience, but they are also blessed with a commitment to go above and beyond for the greater good — embodying the spirit of Magis. 

In Celebration 

Aside from this, the school often holds several programs dedicated to the celebration of different holidays or events. This includes the month-long celebration of Buwan ng Wika, where students participate in a myriad of activities celebrating Filipino culture, which further strengthens class bonds. In line with honoring the history of our country, the ASHS commemorates the declaration of Martial Law through educational activities that spark awareness among students. 

In the spirit of festivity, Duffy-Delaney Day (the celebration of ASHS faculty and formators) is a program filled with lively cheers of students as each member of the ASHS faculty is honored and given a time to shine. Additionally, the Christmas Party of the ASHS is one of the long-awaited events of the school year that includes a Christmas mass and program for the whole school, followed by individual Christmas parties per class.  

Glimmering Nights

Among the most awaited events of junior year include the ASHS Annual School Fair and the Grade 11 Batch Project, which culminates in the Junior Prom. 

If a day of exhilarating rides and unforgettable performances seems to be an ideal day for you, the ASHS Annual School Fair provides two days of fun-filled activities for students to relax and make memories that will last a lifetime. With this, students are also given the opportunity to develop their leadership and teamwork skills through joining Fair Core. 

On the other hand, the Junior Prom serves as a night of dazzling dresses and echoed laughter for juniors to bond. Similar to Fair, the Grade 11 Batch Project Committee gives students the same chance to serve the ASHS through the creation of meaningful events and projects that will carry the legacy of each student batch.

Aside from these various events and projects, there is still so much for you to discover here in the ASHS; a myriad of exciting opportunities and new memories are just waiting around the corner.

Dear juniors, as you begin to get lost in the pages of complicated textbooks, every once in a while you must remind yourself to look up —- as in just a flash, these dreaded days will one day turn into cherished moments you will remember forever.