The Student News Site of University of Chicago Laboratory High School

U-High Midway
The Student News Site of University of Chicago Laboratory High School

U-High Midway
The Student News Site of University of Chicago Laboratory High School

U-High Midway
Berk Oto

Berk Oto, Editor-in-Chief

Berk Oto is an Editor-In-Chief on the U-High Midway and a member of the class of 2022. He joined the Midway as a freshman with the Beginning Journalism program in the 2018-19 school year. He enjoys learning and collaborating with other Midway staff members, writing profiles and expressing his opinions through columns. In addition to working for the Midway, he is also a team captain of the U-High debate team.

 

Awards:

2020 Journalism Education Association National Student Media Contests, Virtual: Superior, press law and ethics

2020 Illinois Journalism Education Association: First place, single-page story package (with Ella Beiser, Julian Ingersoll, Ace Zhang), 96.2 p12 Whole new headspace

2020 Illinois Journalism Education Association: Third place, COVID-19 coverage (with Abigail Slimmon), Beach family repatriated after being stranded in Peru

2019 Illinois Journalism Education Association: Second place, single-story package (with Priyanka Shrijay, Grace Zhang, Jacob Posner, Leland Culver, Risa Cohen)

All content by Berk Oto
English teacher Christine Himmelfarb converses at a workshop with seniors Ava Eggner and Ben Sachs.

Issues arise at Social Justice Week workshops

Berk Oto, Editor-in-Chief
May 4, 2022
Your guide to the 2022-23 Student Council elections

Your guide to the 2022-23 Student Council elections

Berk Oto and Adrianna Nehme
April 27, 2022
HOLE-IN-ONE. Senior Spencer McKula throws a frisbee toward a putting basket at Nichols Park on April 5. For a full disc golf course, players can go to the Illinois Institute of Technology at 33rd and State streets. In Hyde Park, putting baskets are located in Nichols Park and near Promontory Point.

A guide to niche outdoor sports in Chicago parks

Berk Oto, Editor-in-Chief
April 7, 2022
All-School President Brent Pennington speaks at a student council meeting about the new changes to the Student Council election process.

Student Council elections require new campaign elements

Berk Oto, Editor-in-Chief
April 6, 2022

Decoding the metaverse: Key questions answered

Berk Oto, Editor-in-Chief
March 9, 2022
Into the metaverse: How it will impact your life

Into the metaverse: How it will impact your life

Berk Oto, Peter Cox, Caroline Hohner, Erich Raumann, and Amon Gray
March 9, 2022

Colleges should adopt a test-optional policy in favor of grade point average for evaluation

Berk Oto, Editor-in-Chief
March 8, 2022
Standardized testing: Relic of the past or necessary benchmark?

Standardized testing: Relic of the past or necessary benchmark?

Berk Oto and Peter Pu
March 8, 2022
Dressing the part: Linsbert Reynolds

Dressing the part: Linsbert Reynolds

Berk Oto, Editor-In-Chief
March 7, 2022
On Jan. 29, four U-High students played at the Illinois Music Education Association’s All-State festival.

Four students participate in all-state music festival

Berk Oto, Editor-in-Chief
February 8, 2022
The Netflix series Inside Job take a humorous and creative approach on parodying conspiracy theories.

Animated show “Inside Job” parodies conspiracy culture

Berk Oto, Editor-In-Chief
January 24, 2022
To address recent safety concerns, UChicago implements new initiatives by expanding police presence, including foot patrols and increasing traffic stops.

UChicago, police implement more safety measures

Berk Oto, Editor-in-Chief
December 15, 2021
Individuals rally during a student-run protest Nov. 16 on the lack of campus security on the University of Chicago Main Quadrangle after the off-campus shooting death of Shaoxiong Zheng. Students chanted One block off campus and We are here to learn, not to die.

After campus shootings, UChicago responds with increased safety measures

Berk Oto, Editor-in-Chief
November 17, 2021
The Laboratory School administration, students and other community members are working to make the future of Lab a sustainable one.

Doing our part: the Lab community’s role in the climate crisis

Berk Oto, Caroline Hohner, and Clare O'Connor
November 12, 2021
TURNING OFF THE LIGHTS. The Laboratory Schools’ lights stay on from 5:30 a.m. to 1:30 a.m. the next day, according to Lab’s director of operations Joe Wachowski. This is to accomodate faculty access hours and allow custodial workers to finish cleaning.

Green initiatives to help reduce Lab emissions

Berk Oto, Editor-in-Chief
November 12, 2021
Victoria Jueds, director of schools, poses outside Judd Hall. Ms. Jueds is carrying years of experience in advocacy and leadership in education into the start of the school year.

Victoria Jueds leads through listening

Berk Oto, Editor-In-Chief
October 1, 2021
PHOTO: Varsity boys soccer

PHOTO: Varsity boys soccer

Berk Oto, Editor-in-Chief
September 10, 2021
After an amazing year of coverage, the Midway staff will take a publishing break over the summer except in the event of significant breaking news.

Midway to take break over the summer

Berk Oto, Lucia Kouri, and Peter Pu
June 9, 2021
If the United States wants to be taken seriously as an advocate for human rights, we can not be unconditional advocates for war criminals.

America’s funding of Israel supports injustice

Berk Oto, Editor-in-Chief
June 3, 2021
For years, Anthony has been a friendly face throughout Labs hallways.

Anthony Hunter: Custodian brings hard work, friendly face to Lab spaces since 2004

Berk Oto, Editor-In-Chief
May 26, 2021
After a year of staying at home with family and remaining socially distanced with friends, several U-High students took the opportunity of a lull in COVID-19 cases and optimistic news surrounding vaccinations to plan safe travels for themselves and their families over spring break.

Second pandemic spring break feels closer to normal

Berk Oto, Managing Editor
April 22, 2021
Juniors Eddie Christensen and Eli Frank complete a lab for chemistry class after school. Science teachers say that laboratory experiences are too valuable to eliminate permanently as they help students prepare for real-world situations and allow for students to understand abstract concepts.

Laboratory activities to resume despite scheduling restrictions

Berk Oto, Managing Editor
April 19, 2021
Through practicing problems and meeting virtually, Math Team members earn high scores at contests such as the Illinois Mathematics League.

Math Team ends season with top rankings at local contests

Berk Oto, Managing Editor
April 14, 2021
To gather in large groups, return to school without masks and defeat new variants of the virus, herd immunity is absolutely essential, writes managing editor Berk Oto.

Eligible teenagers should be eager to receive vaccine

Berk Oto, Managing Editor
April 2, 2021
The Bubble: Lab community on news, media literacy

The Bubble: Lab community on news, media literacy

Berk Oto and Amanda Cassel
March 30, 2021
The Bubble: Students on President Bidens first month in office

The Bubble: Students on President Biden’s first month in office

Amanda Cassel and Berk Oto
March 12, 2021
75% of students feel like theyre overworked by their teachers, according to the latest survey.

Despite students feeling overworked, teachers won’t change curricula for hybrid

Berk Oto, Managing Editor
February 25, 2021
Everyone should double-mask when going outside and make sure their disposable masks are securely fitted to their face, writes managing editor Berk Oto.

Wearing one mask is not enough

Berk Oto, Managing Editor
February 24, 2021
From feeding first responders at hospitals to responsibly sourcing its food ingredients, Virtue is more than just a name for Mr. Garcia and his business partner, chef Erick Williams. It’s a business model and a way of life.

Activism, community service part of business model at Virtue restaurant

Berk Oto, Managing Editor
February 24, 2021
Gun violence deaths in Chicago nearly doubled in 2020.

Gun control: complicated issue for students, Americans

Krishita Dutta, Nicky Edwards-Levin, and Berk Oto
February 16, 2021

It’s time to take gun violence seriously again

Berk Oto, Managing Editor
February 16, 2021

Faculty members hesitant about hasty return to school

Berk Oto, Managing Editor
February 10, 2021
The U-High community is split on whether to opt-in to hybrid learning with many fearing COVID-19 risk.

Still undecided: Community anxious for hybrid learning details

Lucia Kouri, An Ngo, and Berk Oto
February 10, 2021
The Faculty Association filed a request for an injunction with the National Labor Relations Board on Feb. 4 requiring the University of Chicago to engage in good-faith negotiations about the return to in-person learning. 

Faculty Association requests negotiations prior to in-person learning

Berk Oto, Managing Editor
February 5, 2021
Paul Sagan has a long and storied career, finding success in various industries. He credits his U-High education with laying the foundation of his successful habits.

Built on a Lab foundation: Alumnus Paul Sagan employs experiential learning in leadership roles

Berk Oto, Managing Editor
February 4, 2021
21-0120 editornote

[Photo] To our readers: We’re committed to accuracy, transparency

January 20, 2021
21-0106 almafrancezCAPITOL

[Photo] Class optional, school work suspended after chaos erupts in Capitol

January 6, 2021
The PlayStation 5 (left) and Xbox Series X (right) were released Nov. 10 and Nov. 12 respectively to mark the launch of a new generation of gaming. Ever since the two consoles have been in high demand for their new games and capabilities and consumers have struggled to get ahold of them.

Try these next gen video games over winter break

Berk Oto and Christian Gluth
December 17, 2020
“It’s simultaneously one of the most exciting and relieving feelings to see your computer post for the first time,” Sean said referring to the first time his self-built computer turned on.

Hardware by hand: Teens build PCs for personalization, unique connection

Berk Oto, Managing Editor
December 14, 2020
We must push back against claims that affirmative action rewards Black and Latinx students while punishing white and Asian students as they imply that Black and Latinx students are undeserving and unqualified, which they are not writes assistant editor An Ngo.

[Photo] The fight against affirmative action is rooted in white supremacy

December 9, 2020
Although we are in the midst of a pandemic, vaccines should not be made mandatory writes content manager Noa Appelbaum.

[Photo] No matter what, vaccines must not be mandatory

December 4, 2020
A new stay-at-home advisory went into effect on Nov. 20.

[Photo] New restrictions and stay-at-home advisory takes effect in Illinois

November 30, 2020
Lab students play Among Us while talking through Zoom. Discussion and strategy is a critical part of the game in trying to figure out who the impostor is.

“Among Us” connects U-High students while socially distant

Berk Oto, Managing Editor
November 17, 2020
Zachary Hund, science department chair and chemistry teacher, received the Young Alumni Award from Elmhurst University for his accomplishments in research, service and teaching.

[Photo] Chemistry teacher receives honor for achievements in service and teaching

November 17, 2020
Students are overwhelmed and teachers must recognize this by giving less work, writes content manager Noa Appelbaum.

[Photo] Drained to exhaustion by online learning, students should be given less school work

November 15, 2020
Despite a dark subtext, Borat Subsequent Moviefilm presents an optimistic vision of America writes managing editor Berk Oto.

Borat strikes again in his new raunchy hit, “Borat Subsequent Moviefilms”

Berk Oto, Managing Editor
November 12, 2020
After five days of ballot counting, Joe Biden and Kamala Harris won the Presidential and Vice Presidential races.

[Photo] Following Biden-Harris win, students, faculty excited

November 7, 2020
First time voters know more than anyone that voting matters, writes Health and Wellness editor Grace Holleb.

[Photo] First-time voter understands the importance of this powerful tool

November 10, 2020
It’s not the same as being back in school with everyone, but it is what we can offer, and we are excited to offer it. We just want to give people the opportunity to see one another, not through Zoom screens, Dean of Students Ana Campos said about the events.

[Photo] Junior, senior classes to hold in-person events on campus

November 4, 2020
Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Michigan, Minnesota, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Texas and Wisconsin are cited as some of the most influential states for election day.

[Photo] Guide to watching important states on election night

November 2, 2020
The Day of the Dead should remind people that death is not just a statistic, but the loss of a real life, and we should use this day to reflect on that.

[Photo] Día de los Muertos provides a timely, universal message

November 1, 2020
The goal of the comments is to provide a snapshot of a student’s progression in their class, Assistant Principal Asra Ahmed said.

[Photo] Midterm comments to be released Nov. 9

October 30, 2020
Admissions applications for Lab’s 2021-22 academic year will close Nov. 9. 

[Photo] Admission applications open for 2021-22 academic year

October 29, 2020
Lab should use its curriculum to counteract systemic racism, Features Editor Olivia Griffin writes.

[Photo] Lab must proactively counteract systemic racism

October 15, 2020
Members of the Chicago Police Department had sought a suspect in the armed incident.

[Photo] Shelter-in-place warning issued for historic campus

October 8, 2020
The U-High Midway selected new editors and positions for the 2020-21 academic year.

New Midway editors, positions selected

Berk Oto, Managing Editor
October 6, 2020
Multiple employees were reassigned at the Laboratory Schools this year.

[Photo] Ten nonteaching employees reassigned to lower school teaching assistant positions

October 5, 2020
The Laboratory Schools have extended Thanksgiving break two extra days in hopes of further recharging the well-being of students and faculty. The break will span the entire week of Nov. 23-27 rather than just the final three days.

[Photo] Thanksgiving break extended to span entire week

October 3, 2020
The Class of 2024 on Oct. 2 elected Zoe Nathwani as president, Kaavya Shiram as vice president and Adam Cheema and Sophie Stern as Cultural Union representatives.

[Photo] Class of 2024 selects Student Council officers

October 3, 2020
Juniors and seniors can apply to become a poll worker in the upcoming election.

Illinois students over age 16 eligible to become election judges for Nov. 3 election

Berk Oto, Managing Editor
October 1, 2020
A new harassment and prejudiced behavior reporting system will be released this month to provide a method for members of the Laboratory Schools community to report acts of harassment, discrimination, prejudice or other antagonistic behaviors to the administration.

[Photo] New bias, discrimination, antagonistic behavior reporting system to launch this month

September 23, 2020
A copy of the first day schedule included multiple assemblies explaining how the academic year would work.

[Photo] Adapting to circumstances, students find ways to connect through Zoom

September 14, 2020
Students may pick up course materials and yearbooks curbside beginning today. Designated times are 3:30-7 p.m. on Sept. 9 and 10, and 10 a.m.-1 p.m. on Sept. 12 on Kimbark Avenue outside Gordon Parks Arts Hall.

[Photo] Curbside pickup available for course materials, yearbooks

September 9, 2020
There are still many unknowns in the transition between remote and in-person learning.

[Photo] Lab administration, faculty draft plans for learning in 2020-21 school year

June 9, 2020
Frederick Tangs embraces the computer science field and finds competitiveness and recreation within it.

[Photo] Computer whiz: Junior qualifies for prestigious computing summer camp

June 9, 2020
Three University of Chicago Law school police experts will be on the panel.

[Photo] Virtual panel of experts to discuss police immunity June 11

June 9, 2020
While uniforms get rid of individual expressions of identity through clothing, this is worth losing in order to have a welcoming student environment for students from all socioeconomic backgrounds.

[Photo] School uniforms should be a part of Lab’s dress code

June 8, 2020
We are all complicit in the death of George Floyd and the system of racism behind it, argues reporter An Ngo.

[Photo] We are all responsible for the death of George Floyd

June 5, 2020

Netflix comedy ‘Space Force’ a simple, silly, hilarious military satire

Berk Oto, Managing Editor
June 4, 2020
Ace Zhang and Risa Cohen have been Midway illustrators for over 2 years.

[Photo] Midway illustrators driven by satisfaction, artistic practice

June 2, 2020
Fans should be allowed to attend games if they are willing to face the risk according to sports editor Christian Gluth.

[Photo] ‘Friendly Confines,’ not confined to home: It’s time for fans to return to stands

June 2, 2020
Orla waits for the train on the 59th street Metra station with her friends to get to the climate march downtown from Lab.

Earth girl: Junior’s activism fueled by passion, kindness

Berk Oto, Managing Editor
June 1, 2020
Its very important to stick to improving upon previous work, and not focus on others in your same field, say all three artists.

[Photo] At panel, alumni artists share power of their work

May 29, 2020
Lab has had 3 different directors in 6 years. Its time for someone permanent.

[Photo] Students need role in directorial decision

May 29, 2020
President Trump should extend the federal deployment of the National Guard writes Managing Editor Berk Oto.

America has a responsibility to give National Guard members the benefits they deserve

Berk Oto, Managing Editor
May 27, 2020
Sleep schedules of students are being thrown off by remote learning.

[Photo] Zzzz: Student sleep schedules change noticeably due to social distancing, remote learning

May 26, 2020
60% of U-High student respondents lost their summer job or activity due to the coronavirus pandemic.

[Photo] Students adapt summer plans, find new opportunities during social distancing

May 26, 2020
Middle school principal Sandra Bixby, left, 6th grade humanities teacher Richard Krull, center-left, Ms. Ogilvie, center-right, and Ms. Marienthal, right, are all retiring this year.

[Photo] Retiring faculty, principal made mark on middle, lower, primary schools

May 25, 2020
Introduction to Computer Science will be the only summer class offered to high school students this year.

Summer Introduction to Computer Science offered virtually

Berk Oto, Managing Editor
May 20, 2020
The Parents Association is introducing a new program to bring together Lab students attending different grades.

[Photo] Making connections: Parents’ Association introduces program to connect students in different grades

May 18, 2020
Among Director Magills top priorities is to boost morale, ensure Labs financial security and searching for a permanent director.

Back at it: Magill will draw on Lab experience during interim year

Berk Oto and Peter Pu
May 18, 2020
Obamas commencement speech and changes to the food delivery industry are covered in May 14s roundup.

Pandemic roundup: Barack Obama to host commencement speech, door delivery industry changes

Berk Oto and Lucia Kouri
May 14, 2020
The U-High Midway won best Overall news publication including best online, best hybrid and best print newspaper in the district.

Midway named best overall publication in division

Berk Oto, Managing Editor
May 14, 2020
The revised end-of-year schedule for the 2020 spring semester was posted on Schoology recently.

[Photo] End-of-year schedule revised, posted on Schoology

May 13, 2020
Americans should reject geotracking at its early stages, before its too late.

Beware of the new ankle shackle

Berk Oto, Managing Editor
May 12, 2020
The pandemic will leave a multi-year financial impact on the Laboratory Schools.

Additional costs, plummeting endowment will leave multi-year financial impact on Lab

Berk Oto, Managing Editor
May 11, 2020
A progressive education can not coexist with a traditional college preparatory experience, writes former Assistant Managing Editor Leland Culver.

[Photo] Progressive education belongs at U-High

May 11, 2020
It is important to experiment with courses to diversify and explore interests says reporter Grace Brady.

[Photo] Choose courses based on interest, not rigor

May 7, 2020
Especially through the pandemic, its important to support small local businesses.

[Photo] Shop small, shop local

May 5, 2020
May project, a quintessential U-High experience, has changed for nearly all seniors due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

[Photo] Due to pandemic, seniors revise May Project plans

May 3, 2020
With virtual class on Zoom, to an increase in time to kill at home, students are experiencing a substantial increase in screen time.

[Photo] Stuck at home, students experience increase in screen time

May 3, 2020
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