BBQ helps new students find their way

Around 50 students gathered in the quad for an evening of socializing and eating at the annual New Student Barbeque on Aug. 15. 

Freshmen, sophomores and juniors new to the district mingled with Saratoga students, as principal Paul Robinson and assistant principal Kevin Mount worked the grills, and mascots Freddie and Fannie Falcon entertained the crowd.

The students were greeted by commissioners and ASB members who, after welcoming the new students and relaying general information about the school, embarked with the students on a short school tour. The evening ended with an engaging icebreaker game of “The Big Wind Blows,” which got all the participants up and moving.

For the new students who attended, the BBQ turned out to be a valuable tool to familiarize themselves with their new school. Freshman Sarah Jin, who previously attended Singapore American School, was glad she came and felt that it was very helpful.

“Everybody was really open and relaxed,” Jin said. “The friends that I made at the BBQ really helped me get through the first few days of school.”

Freshman Kanika Seth, who went to Carden Academy, also thought coming to the BBQ was a good idea.

“The food was really good, and everyone was really helpful,” Seth said. “I would definitely recommend next year’s new students to go.”

Since the middle of July, new student head commissioners senior Sana Ali and junior Neel Kattumadam have worked on making the BBQ a reality.

Commissioners called each of the new students one by one to invite them to the barbeque. Commissioner senior Erica Tran thought it was hard work, but was worth it.

“Many [students] didn’t pick up, and few gave definite responses,” Tran said. “However, I think it was good to contact them through phone since they got personal contact with an actual student.”

Assistant principal Kerry Monike, who is the supervisor for the commission, believes the BBQ achieved everything it was created for. 

“The students showed up and were connected quickly to commissioners and leaders of the school,” Mohnike said. “They were welcomed and were able to get a feel for Saratoga High in a very easygoing and friendly environment. I absolutely thought it was a success.”