As school kicks back into session, students often spend a large portion of their time reflecting on summer adventures. Whether this reflection results in feelings of despair, longing, or joy all depends on how excited a student is for the upcoming school year. It is certain that many The Trojan Times editors are experiencing these same emotions. During summer 2025, staff had the chance to take part in many unique experiences; these varied from spending valuable time teaching the next generation to watching the sun set over Greek waters.
The Trojan Times Editors-in-Chief had quite eventful summers. Petra Lee (’26) interned at a journalism nonprofit called Prison Radio in Philadelphia. She shares, “As a part of my internship, I got to transcribe recordings of incarcerated people and learn about the flaws in the criminal justice system by interacting with youth both in and out of juvenile detention centers.” Lee’s dedication to learning about flawed institutions in society is an example of how journalism can be used to further education. Meanwhile, Sophia Kim (‘26) also spent her summer serving youth. When asked about what she enjoyed most during summer, Kim recalls, “I volunteered at a school in Philadelphia, giving piano lessons to children. I loved working with kids with all sorts of unique personalities, seeing them persevere through their lessons, and falling in love with music just as I did when I was their age!”
Along with serving the greater community, the editorial board had some travelers this summer. Sky Rostolsky (’28) and Bela Shah (’28) explored Greece through a school-organized trip, providing them with opportunities to see many distinct parts of the beautiful country. When looking back on this experience, Rostolsky exclaims, “I feel so lucky to have gotten the chance to spend time with great friends in such an incredible place!” Indeed, exploring the world with friends is an incredible way to spend summer break and create life-long memories. Arlind Saro (‘28) also spent his time traveling and recollects how he went “kayaking in sandstone sea caves at the Apostle Islands on Lake Superior.” His family’s “echoing screams” as they jumped into the water deterred his initial want to spend time in a lake; he decided that it would not be worth it. Despite missing out on submerging himself into the lake, Saro still got to spend quality time with his family.
Many editors had enlightening and adventurous summers, creating meaningful connections and wonderful memories. While the summer is over, the newspaper staff strives to carry the sentimental and unified spirit of summer into the school year to foster a stronger Wissahickon community.
