A Taste of Change at SAS

By Angel Yang & Mimi Yao School cafeteria food has always been a debate among students, with the overall attitude of students toward cafeteria food being slightly negative. As many people struggle to choose a meal, they often resort to “the only consistent option” — the burrito bowl. But the ever-growing burrito line is just one manifestation of students’ grievances.  This semester, new changes have been made to the school cafeteria. You may have noticed the introduction of the new food company in charge of the food, Sodexo, instead of last years’ Chartwells. In addition, the variety of meals has … Continue reading A Taste of Change at SAS

How does one transition from bringing stories to life on stage to helping students craft their own real-life narratives? 

From starring as Mercutio in Romeo and Juliet on a live stage to working on the screen for film The Martian, directed by Ridley Scott, Mr. O’Brien once immersed himself in stories that had already been written.  As the grandson … Continue reading How does one transition from bringing stories to life on stage to helping students craft their own real-life narratives? 

Unrealistic Ideals: The Impact of Social Media on Body Image for SASPD High Schoolers 

The rise of technology and social media in the 21st century has given unnatural body images a new form of power against young, impressionable teenagers. Influencers and celebrities often set unrealistic benchmarks through deceptive practices. The media teenagers consume is … Continue reading Unrealistic Ideals: The Impact of Social Media on Body Image for SASPD High Schoolers 

Gender Neutral Bathrooms: Does Inclusivity Undermine Privacy? 

In recent years, the Shanghai American School (SAS) has introduced gender-neutral changing rooms in its swimming facilities, moving away from the traditional model of gender-segregated spaces. This change allows students of all genders to share a common area for showers, bathroom stalls, and changing rooms, featuring numerous private cubicles within a communal space. Despite the good intentions, there have been negative opinions regarding the safety and privacy of this new design.  Historically, SASPD has provided separate changing areas for boys and girls, with open spaces dedicated to one gender. However, in an effort to increase inclusivity, the school has introduced … Continue reading Gender Neutral Bathrooms: Does Inclusivity Undermine Privacy? 

Assessing the Controversial Success of the JUMP! Leadership Retreat 

By Katelyn Lu and Charlotte Lai Original Publishing Date: April 12, 2024 When recalling their leadership experience at SAS, many students may remember the JUMP! Leadership Retreat as a core memory. To some, this three-day event brought lasting friendships and lifelong lessons, but to many others, it felt unpolished — “a school bonding event instead of a leadership conference” — as an anonymous student quoted.  To learn more about the much-disputed success of the JUMP! initiative, we sat down with Ms. Grace, SAS’s Global Citizenship Coordinator, and Mr. Ian Standard, the head facilitator of the JUMP! Leadership Retreat. Together, these … Continue reading Assessing the Controversial Success of the JUMP! Leadership Retreat 

Teacher Profiles: Kevin Spachuk

Mr. Kevin Spachuk was a new addition to the English department last year! From teaching English in Manila to directing APAC Forensics at SAS, Mr. Spachuk’s teaching career has been nothing short of impressive. Currently, he serves as an 9th and 10th grade teacher, along with the coach of Forensics and JV Boys Soccer.  Known for his Shakespearean acting sessions and unfaltering enthusiasm for a great read, Mr. Spachuk has truly enlivened the SAS hallways with his presence. In this interview, we explore his experience as he and his family transition between distinct cultures, navigate the alleys of Shanghai, and welcome … Continue reading Teacher Profiles: Kevin Spachuk

Top 3 Underrated Chinese Street Food (in my Humble Opinion)

When it comes to street food, the varieties we have in China could fill an encyclopedia. Nation wide, and even world wide, we are known for our various dumplings, pancakes, steamed rolls (baozi) and more. However, there many dishes or snacks that also deserve this fame and acclaim. Below, you will be introduced to 3 of my favorite underrated Chinese street foods. What is it? Although it may sound intimidating, duck’s blood vermicelli soup is exactly what it is. That is, with the addition of duck intestines, duck liver, duck gizzard, tofu and cilantro. But don’t worry, I’ve eaten it … Continue reading Top 3 Underrated Chinese Street Food (in my Humble Opinion)

Rating Popular Kpop Comebacks

By Angel Yang and Katelyn Jiang EASY – LESSERAFIM 8/10   On first thoughts, “Easy” by Lesserafim was different compared to their previous comebacks: the instrumental is based off a trap beat and sounds like American pop music. I was definitely shocked upon hearing “Easy” for the first time, but as I listened to it more, it started to grow on me. The melody is memorable, and the chorus is catchy. Other than Kpop, I usually listen to r&b and hip-hop, so this song was immediately added to my playlist.   However, I only gave this song 8/10, because the vocals had … Continue reading Rating Popular Kpop Comebacks

Melodies in Motion: Pudong Rocks and the Dance of Collaboration

On March 22, 2024, the Shanghai American School Pudong community was swept away by a wave of musical talent during the annual Pudong Rocks concert, a showcase hosted by the Tri-M Music Honor Society and buoyed by the support of the Tech Crew. In 2008, Pudong Rocks was born as a fundraising initiative led by the Student Council. Created in collaboration with the Theater Tech Club, its inception aimed at achieving dual objectives: raising funds for charitable causes and fostering artistic expression and entertainment. Over time, the reins of event organization transitioned from the Student Council to the Tri-M Music … Continue reading Melodies in Motion: Pudong Rocks and the Dance of Collaboration

NAHS X Pudong Press: Isn’t it Lovely?

Every month, NAHS and Pudong Press come together to present a theme to members, who contribute artwork and writing based on each month’s topic. February’s theme was “Lovely”. Enjoy the works presented below. Poem by Anonymous Together we filled the hallways with laughterShe was the map that guided me through the daysI laid my bricks using the blueprint she leftEvery move I made was in hopes of her praiseNow she has left our house colourless and dimMost days we don’t speak, not a single sentencePart of me is gone, like I’ve misplaced a limbThe hallways are silent without her presence … Continue reading NAHS X Pudong Press: Isn’t it Lovely?