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
Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Editor-in-Chief

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu is a member of the Class of 2024 and serves as an editor-in-chief. She joined the staff as a sophomore in the 2021-22 year. Working on a team, meeting new people while writing stories and learning new skills are her favorite parts of being a journalist. Her favorite piece she has written is “Helping hand: Bronzeville church gives back for Thanksgiving.” In addition to journalism, Katie enjoys competitive swimming, reading and ring-collecting.

Awards:

2024 Illinois Journalism Education Association: First place, alternative storytelling (with Audrey Park, Sahana Unni), Fresh faces

2024 Illinois Journalism Education Association: First place, alternative storytelling, In-Depth: U-High students also aren’t too enthusiastic (poll)

2024 Illinois Journalism Education Association: Second place, headline (with Clare McRoberts), Fragrance fanatics: trend sparks student interest in cologne

2024 Scholastic Press Association of Chicago, community story: superior

2024 Columbia Scholastic Press Association Gold Circle Award: First place, sports news, “UChicago economics study tests baseball team”

2024 Columbia Scholastic Press Association Gold Circle Award: Certificate of merit, news page design (Page 2)

2023 Illinois Journalism Education Association: First place, alternative storytelling (with Amon Gray, Chloë Alexander, Audrey Matei, Téa Tamburo, Ainsley Williams, Victoria Washington), Rising Stars, Jan. 24, 2023

2023 Illinois Journalism Education Association: First place, headline, ABCs of CBD

2023 Journalism Education Association National Student Media Contests, San Francisco convention: Honorable mention, online package

2022 Columbia Scholastic Press Association Gold Circle Award: Briefs writing, first place (with Chloë Alexander, Louis Auxenfans, Joaquin Figueroa, Chloe Ma, Amy Ren), Vol. 98, Issue 8 (March 10, 2022), Page 3

All content by Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu
Now, with the rise of AI in recent years, misinformation is more accessible and harder to spot than ever before. The Midway has compiled a list of resources and tools to help you best stay informed.

Your guide to staying informed in an AI-impacted world

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Editor-in-Chief
April 23, 2024
Your guide to the 2024-25 Student Council elections

Your guide to the 2024-25 Student Council elections

Taariq Ahmed and Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu
April 16, 2024
A new survey of city teens about issues important to Chicago youth, conducted from Feb. 12 to Feb. 23, evaluated the highest concerns for the more than 220 U-High students who participated.

For U-High students, mental health, school safety, DEI arise as highest concerns

Skye Freeman and Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu
April 15, 2024
Four years after COVID-19 was declared a pandemic, long COVID still continues to impact health despite slowing of its spread.

Effects of pandemic linger with COVID-19

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Editor-in-Chief
March 28, 2024
The Midway staff will take a break from publishing over spring break except in the event of breaking news after after a busy fall and winter season.

Midway to take publishing hiatus over spring break

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Audrey Park, and Sahana Unni
March 5, 2024
For many teenagers, water bottles and tumblers double as ways to stay hydrated throughout the day and trendy accessories to carry.

Hydration or expression? Water bottles help students hydrate — and stay stylish

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Editor-in-Chief
February 21, 2024
Settling for Biden... again?

Settling for Biden… again?

Clare McRoberts, Kabir Joshi, Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, and Mia Lipson
February 21, 2024
COMMUNITY WITH COMMUNICATION. Sam Harris has uplifted his community by advocating for interactions and open conversations. Despite his own experience at school, he hopes to create a more engaged community. In doing so, he believes he and people in general can make a difference.

Sam Harris’ passion for helping uplifts those around

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Editor-in-Chief
February 20, 2024
Editor-in-chief Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu argues that a cycle of ignorance and an inability to acknowledge wrongdoings threatens society's moral code.

The age of shamelessness: Embracing one’s mistakes is beneficial — until it’s not

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Editor-in-chief
February 1, 2024
Iranian artist Maryam Taghavi’s latest installement in the ongoing Chicago Works exhibit at the Museum of Contemporary Art titled “Nothing Is,” pushes boundaries of language and communication.

Exhibit ‘Nothing Is’ breaks traditional ideas of language, reality

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Editor-in-Chief
January 22, 2024
Student winter sport activities are threatened by climate change's effect on ideal conditions.

Snow-reliant activities threatened by effects of climate change

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Editor-in-Chief
December 12, 2023
Editor-in-chief Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu argues that at U-High, it often feels like everyone knows exactly what they want to do for their future career.

It’s OK to not know your future career

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Editor-in-chief
November 16, 2023
On the evening of Nov. 10, Rocio Villaseñor, a member of the Laboratory Schools communications team, died in a house fire. She was 31.

Rocio Villaseñor, Lab school communication specialist, has died

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Editor-in-Chief
November 14, 2023
Alula Teklu runs toward the ball at super-sectionals on Oct. 28. Despite a rough start to their season, the boys soccer team made a comeback, becoming the second team in U-High soccer history to win sectionals. Their season ended in a 2-1 loss at super-sectionals. 

With new mindset, boys soccer team makes a comeback

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Editor-In-Chief
November 3, 2023
You and AI: Your new reality

You and AI: Your new reality

Sahana Unni, Skye Freeman, Victoria Washington, Edward Park, and Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu
October 25, 2023
During the annual football season, members of the Lab community participate in fantasy football leagues. The activity is designed to build competition and camaraderie between users.

Fantasy Fanatics: Lab community bonds through fantasy football leagues

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Editor-in-Chief
October 17, 2023
The animated series "Young Love" shows the coarseness of life in 12-episode shows based off of the short film "Hair Love."

‘Young Love’ effectively demonstrates struggles, triumphs of Chicago experience

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Editor-in-Chief
October 16, 2023
Doja Cat's most recent music she seemingly expresses her 'authentic self,' and in her public statements, she disses her ever-supportive fans. Her actions leaves people to wonder whether her actions reflect herself or a persona she is putting on.

Doja Cat’s demonic persona, new music elicits opinions

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Editor-in-Chief
September 25, 2023
A recent decision to turn the Lake Shore Hotel into an asylum shelter sparked anger and frustration among Kenwood residents at city officials for their approach to handling the incoming migrants.

Local neighborhoods push back against city’s plan accommodating new migrants

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Editor-in-Chief
September 22, 2023
Shreya Nallamothu, a junior at University High School in downstate Normal, Illinois, inspired the country’s first bill addressing the rights of social media influencers.

New Illinois law protects rights of child influencers

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Editor-in-Chief
September 20, 2023
Midways editors announce plans to enhance relationship with student body and amplify social media interaction and other digital elements for the community.

Midway plans to incorporate more student body voice

Audrey Park, Sahana Unni, and Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu
September 5, 2023
After a busy year, the staff with take a break from publishing over the summer.

Midway to take break over summer

Audrey Park, Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, and Sahana Unni
June 9, 2023
Seniors Yaseen Qureshi and Myra Malkic eat ice cream on top of the photo wall, which was organized by Student Council so that seniors could commemorate their time at Lab.

Prom brings about nostalgia, provides end-of-year celebration

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Editor-in-Chief
June 5, 2023
While using financial advice resources on the internet, it is crucial to be cautious and skeptical.

Drowning out the noise: Be mindful when looking for finance platforms online

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Editor-in-Chief
June 2, 2023
First singles player Dash Smith serves the ball in a home game. The boys tennis team ended their season, placing 5th at state.

Boys tennis ends season in 5th place at state

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Editor-in-Chief
May 30, 2023
After 21 years of interactive P.E. teaching, Debbie Ribbens will retire. She plans to continue her active and energetic lifestyle.

Ribbens inspired with energetic teaching

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Editor-in-Chief
May 25, 2023
One popular method of peer-to-peer payment is Venmo, an app that offers users a free debit card, making it easy to send and receive money quickly.

Peer-to-peer payment: Apps maximize efficiency, directness

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Editor-in-Chief
May 19, 2023
The Eid potluck dinner and celebration for seniors in the Muslim Students’ Association took place last Friday on April 28.

Muslim families welcome community to Eid celebration

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Editor-in-Chief
May 3, 2023
LEADING LADY. Junior Lena Valenti has a leading role in the upcoming spring musical, while also taking on several additional roles. Her passion for different aspects of theater stems from her drive to connect.

Drama Queen: Lena Valenti fueled toward future in theater by social connection

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Assistant Editor
May 1, 2023
Summer can be the perfect time to find a job that can help give an introduction to the work force, let students earn money and give them something to do over the summer.

Working Life: Students can use the summer to get a job

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Assistant Editor
May 1, 2023
Despite often being overlooked, the landscapers, security guards and police officers are a fundamental piece to keeping the tourist-filled heart of San Francisco upscale. From keeping the grass trimmed to ensuring the streets are safe, these individuals are essential to the ambiance of Union Square.

Behind the scenes: Union Square workers maintain the luxurious district

Audrey Park, Sahana Unni, and Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu
April 21, 2023
GIVE (YOURSELF) SOME CREDIT: When paying for an item, it's important to consider the costs and benefits of using a credit card or debit card.

Debit vs. Credit: Considering payment method pays off

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Assistant Editor
April 17, 2023
At this year's graduation, 2010 U-High alumna Amy Solomon will give the commencement address at Rockfeller Chapel on June 8.

Comedian, film producer and alumna Amy Solomon to give commencement speech

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Assistant Editor
April 11, 2023
FUN WITH FINANCE. Through educating themselves on basic personal finance, students can save money while preparing for their future.

Time to save: Figure out finances for secure future

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Assistant Editor
March 31, 2023
To pursue his passion for baseball, Sohrab Rezei has bucked the typical college pathway for U-High students.

Audio: Slugging the curveball — Sohrab Rezaei takes uncommon path to college baseball

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu and Louis Auxenfans
March 24, 2023
This year's student wellness survey had overwhelmingly negative results, especially in terms of anxiety, depression, and discrimination.

Lab students experience more depression, discrimination than national average, survey shows

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Assistant Editor
March 23, 2023
Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu argues that engaging non-academic or nonprofessional summer experiences can be as or more valuable than a prestigious pre-professional position.

For summer activities, prioritize passion over résumé

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Assistant Editor
March 23, 2023
Lil Yachty’s new album, “Let’s Start Here,” includes a diverse range of techniques and, despite being unfocused, is worth the listen.

‘Let’s Start Here’ demonstrates unfocused-yet-effective expression of alternative genre

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Assistant Editor
March 7, 2023
The math team placed first at its fifth and final ICTM competition on April 22.

Math team finishes 2nd in ICTM regionals, 7th in NSML

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Assistant Editor
March 6, 2023
EXPERIMENTAL SEASON. Sasha Duda prepares to swing during practice with his team at the Henry Crown Field House. Sasha and his teammates are participating in a University of Chicago economics study.

UChicago economics study tests baseball team

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Assistant Editor
February 21, 2023
Due to problems of working with the data provided by Authentic Connections, the new health and wellness survey vendor, the results have not been publicly released four months after students took the survey.

Health and wellness survey delayed due to data setbacks

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Assistant Editor
February 16, 2023
Some students face repudiation from their peers for their more politically centered or right beliefs.

Students feel pressure to adhere to political norm

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Assistant Editor
February 2, 2023
As hosts of “Sounds Classical,” a radio series on WFMT, Kristina Lynn and LaRob K. Rafeal aim to recontextualize classical music in a modern way by illuminating overlooked contributors to the genre.

‘Sounds Classical’ makes music genre more approachable

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Assistant Editor
January 26, 2023
Sebastian Gans

Sebastian Gans

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Assistant Editor
January 24, 2023
Rising Stars: With winter sports underway, athletes demonstrate potential

Rising Stars: With winter sports underway, athletes demonstrate potential

Chloe Alexander, Audrey Matei, Téa Tamburo, Ainsley Williams, Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, and Victoria Washington
January 24, 2023
Varsity debaters Connor Booth and Adam Cheema secured a bid to the Tournament of Champions by advancing to semifinals in the Mamaroneck Longhorn Classic and Mahi Shah and Cyrus Esmailzadeh earned a full scholarship for a summer debate camp.

Two debate duos secure Tournament of Champions bid, summer camp scholarships

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Assistant Editor
December 9, 2022
Six U-High students attended the National Association of Independent Schools Student Diversity Leadership Conference in Dallas Nov. 30-Dec. 3, to learn about incorporating discussions about community into the diversity, equity and inclusion curriculum at Lab.

[Photo] Learning about equity and community, students bring diversity conference lessons to DEI curriculum

Mia Lipson, Assistant editor
December 7, 2022
At the Apostolic Faith Church, a staff member stocks food products in preparation for the food pantry which will be held on Nov. 15-16.

Helping hand: Bronzeville church gives back for Thanksgiving

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Assistant Editor
November 16, 2022
Varsity debaters Connor Booth and Adam Cheema secured a bid to the Tournament of Champions by advancing to semifinals in the Mamaroneck Longhorn Classic and Mahi Shah and Cyrus Esmailzadeh earned a full scholarship for a summer debate camp.

Debate team continues solid start, varsity duo qualify for national tournament

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Assistant Editor
November 10, 2022
More courses within the science and math departments are now using the free online textbook Openstax to decrease textbook costs for students.

Cost + Convenience: More teachers choose open source textbooks

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Assistant Editor
October 18, 2022
Varsity soccer captain Charlie Young goes for a header during practice after school on Sept. 22. Charlie has played for U-High since ninth grade, gaining confidence in his skills and in leadership.

Head in the game: Soccer captain Charlie Young leads through growth and compassion

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Reporter
September 27, 2022
Teddy Stripling discusses the results of the 2020-2021 health and wellness survey with a small group. This year's survey will take place October 6th during assembly period.

Student customization, enthusiasm are priorities for wellness survey

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Reporter
September 22, 2022
All-School President Fermi Boonstra and Vice President Graham Robbins talk during a Student Council meeting. This year, Student Council is aiming for greater clarification on student mental health policies and introducing curriculum feedback into classes for the 2023-24 school year.

Student Council offer agendas on mental health and curriculum feedback

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Reporter
September 16, 2022
Reporter Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu argues that students should enter retreats ready to be open-minded in order to foster growth and vulnerability.

Have an open mind toward retreats to maximize impact, growth

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Reporter
June 7, 2022
“Formula 1: Drive to Survive” explores the journey of 10 teams over the course of 22 grand prix races delving into the intensely competitive nature of F1 motor racing.

Netflix’s ‘Formula 1: Drive to Survive’ offers entertaining, gripping insight on F1 racing

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Reporter
June 6, 2022
Chicago has a diverse range of food and activities to explore this summer.

All over the map: Explore something new this summer

Kiran Collins, Milo Platz-Walker, Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Evan Lok, Victoria Washington, Olivia Adams, and Chloe Alexander
June 1, 2022
Junior Luke Grotthus takes the baton from junior teammate William Montague. The two were part of a 4x400 meter relay including juniors Cristian Ferreyra and Sohan Manek.

Eight boys track and field athletes compete in state competition

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Reporter
May 31, 2022
Mochi donuts from Mochinut

[Photo] Tasting Chicago’s flavors: Here’s what’s on the menu

Kiran Collins, Milo Platz-Walker, Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Reporters
June 1, 2022
Young Women of Color club members Taylor Patterson, Raven Reid and Kiran Chinniah applaud while watching Ketanji Brown Jackson’s Supreme Court acceptance speech.

For young women of color, Justice Jackson represents judicial progress, work

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Reporter
May 25, 2022
Zoe Stephens dribbles the ball past a defender from Regina Dominican in the Varsity Girls Soccer game on April 25.

Audio: Putting teamwork first, girls soccer team finds success in communication, camaraderie

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Reporter
May 17, 2022
The U-High Midway has been recognized with several awards by the Illinois Journalism Education Association.

U-High Midway wins 44 state journalism awards

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Reporter
May 16, 2022
Student-versus-faculty games will occur during the assembly period on May 12.

To build community, student-versus-faculty games are returning

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Reporter
April 28, 2022
Reporter Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu argues that the banning of books in schools prevents the learning from diverse perspectives necessary for true education.

Banning books stymies learning

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Reporter
March 23, 2022
Misinformation on social media must be countered, argue a group of beginning journalists.

Opinion: Social media users should combat misinformation of Ukrainian invasion

Olivia Adams, Chloe Alexander, Toshiro Chin, Kiran Collins, Evan Lok, Sandra Mordi, Milo Platz-Walker, Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, and Victoria Washington
March 7, 2022
The form to submit a workshop proposal for Social Justice Week will be open until March 25.

Submissions open for ‘BELONG’ themed Social Justice Week

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Reporter
March 7, 2022
Marc Mulligan demonstrates tie-die in the 2019 ArtsFest workshop "Tambourines, Tangerines, and Tie-dye." ArtsFest is a day filled with art-themed workshops designed by students, for students.

ArtsFest committee anticipates workshops, events

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Reporter
February 15, 2022
Increased safety protocols, new restrictions and a modified calendar at Lab have impacted community events. 

Pandemic restrictions impact community events

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Reporter
January 5, 2022
The Renaissance art and literary magazine is now accepting applications for editor positions, which are due Oct. 29. Students can also submit art or writing pieces throughout the year.

Renaissance magazine seeks submissions, editors

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Reporter
October 25, 2021
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