After our second-period classes, we trickled in and found our assigned advisory seats in Forbush Auditorium. Two upperclassmen, elected last year, led the collection: Mariana Garza & Haoxaing (Mike) Ma. 

On Thursday, September 15th, the atmosphere in the auditorium was loud and chaotic. Every advisory loudly sang along to the choir music played at the start of Collection. 

Then came a fall sports video, made by a member of Quaker Nation, showcasing fall sports offered at Friends: from Volleyball and Soccer, to Field Hockey and Tennis. They even included some team-player highlights from each sport. Quaker Nation members then talked about upcoming school events, from Rivalry Day, to Scarlet & Gray Day, and more. 

Then, Friends School Athletic Association (FSAA) members Genique Gaither, Quinn Carlin, Max Palmer, Jonah Zalis, Dylan Barnes, and Nigel Tracey gave a presentation about game etiquette. They talked about how we should be respectful of other teams, refs, and officials while cheering.

They also taught us cheers to do, like “Here we go Quakers, here we go!” 

Interviewed afterward, the FSAA members reflected on the experience.

“We were barely prepared, and we didn’t expect the audience to be as engaged as they were,” Genique said.

Nigel, who had taught the crowd a new cheer, based on the SpongeBob SquarePants theme song, agreed.

“There was a moment where I was embarrassed so I laughed,” he said. “But the crowd made it less embarrassing by laughing with me.” 

Then, Mike and Mariana introduced private music lesson teachers and Rock Band leaders Anthony Ajluni & Greg Schneider. The two recruited students to join the Friends band, and tried to inspire anyone who was interested in making their own band.

“There’s no opportunity anymore,” Mr. Ajluni said. “People are busy, and there are not a whole lot of people who are able to do this.” 

After their presentation came student announcements from Math Club, Global Service Club, Green Club, and Model UN. All presented reasons why people would be interested in joining their clubs. Last but not least, a student shout-out went to freshman Daryn Barnes, for scoring the winning goal in the previous day’s girls Varsity Soccer game. 

Everyone interviewed afterward agreed that Thursday’s collection went well.

Students said they were engaged the entire time. They love when we do fun and exciting things during Collection, because it gets the entire Upper School laughing. Overall, this Collection was enjoyable and students say they can’t wait for the next one!