As a freshman, the high school experience can be confusing, but by channeling a few passions, life can become significantly easier if one can find people who love to do the same things. Freshman Charlie Dodge has already found these passions, showing that though they are less experienced, ninth graders can be just as capable as upperclassmen.
For Dodge, this includes being the only freshman member on the yearbook staff, an achievement very few have accomplished at TCHS. Dodge is currently serving as a copywriter on the Templar staff. She previously served as Co-Editor-in-Chief on Oak Avenue’s yearbook staff and joined the Templar after discovering a passion for copywriting. Dodge’s parents, who were both yearbook staff members, inspired her to join.
“When I first joined yearbook as a freshman, there was no connection between Oak and high school yearbook and it felt like I had wandered in blind,” Junior Eric Lee said. “We usually have workshops but everything feels like its new. The Templar is miles apart from Oak’s yearbook. As an award winning yearbook, our staff members have to live up to high expectations, and Charlie is doing extremely excellent as a first year. She is a natural writer.”
One of Dodge’s best traits includes her ability to speak with other people. She enjoys conducting interviews, speaking in public and delivering speeches. She utilizes these qualities for Comedysportz, Poetry Slam Club and Junior State of America.
“I have done improv events since sixth grade and even went to an improv camp,” Dodge said. “I am looking forward to upcoming Comedy Sportz events. I served JSA president at Oak. JSA gives you the chance to improve public speaking and express yourself and try to win people over in a fun civilized argument.”
This year, Dodge embarked on a new challenge by participating in the Temple City Youth Committee, where she can work with the City Council to provide a youth perspective on new ideas for the community at monthly meetings.
Dodge also enjoys illustrating in her free time, sketching graphic novels and cartoons. She draws a self portrait every Saturday using caricature techniques.
“I do self portraits to practice for when I want to draw friends,” Dodge said. “I was inspired by Jamie Hewlett in sixth grade. I really liked his art style and tried to adapt to his style. Since then, I looked at other artists and developed my own style.”
For now, she wants to enjoy her four years of high school and pursue all of her passions and interests. However, she knows that soon the time will come for her to make a choice on which career path she wants to take.
“It is my dream to go to Harvard and write for the National Lampoon, the University’s satirical newspaper,” Dodge said. “However, I would also like to go to Cal Arts and study art as well, but sadly I can’t do both.”
In less than a month, Dodge has made an impact on many people here at school. She has proven that she is more than just a freshman and has overcome many obstacles to show that she has the ability to stand with the rest.
TCHS School Newspaper