By Gianna Bartolini ’15

I’ve heard theories about what high school should be. One is that it’s where you’re supposed to find where, and with whom, you fit in. The school community emphasizes belonging, whether it is a club, a team or as a part of a friend group. Students are often pressured into these activities, then into embodying the ideals and values whatever they decide to become a part of.

Crazy thought: what if that’s totally wrong? During my early years at Sherwood, I surrendered to the indoctrination the school was dishing out. I tried to personify my interests and assimilate to my friends. At this point, though, I’ve realized that high school is really where you’re supposed to figure out who you are. If you make friends who can always support you along the way, that’s an added bonus, but otherwise, you’re not gonna figure yourself out; you’ll only learn to fake it convincingly.

This brings me to Anarchy Club. It seems like the only thing better than joining a club is starting one. If I felt the urge to conform to the model student, I would, characteristically, do it in the most ironic way possible.

My pitch would be as follows:

The Anarchy Club is a club where people of all ages, races, genders, religions, etc. can find a place to do whatever they want. The first rule of the club is that there are no rules, no officers, and absolutely no organized activities. Members are free to express themselves however and may engage in debates/discussions at their own discretion. They’re welcome to explore free-thinking, do whatever, and be natural.

Anyways, while you’re shoving pamphlets at the poor freshmen at orientation, scaring them and enticing them at once, consider this: society’s expectation for us is that we know who we are by the time we’re eighteen. If you accept that challenge, knowing yourself ASAP is imperative. Before joining eighteen clubs, four varsity sports and approximately fourteen group chats, think about what it is doing to your individuality … Then see the Anarchy Club’s booth in the back corner. Maybe there’s someone representing … but then again, nothing’s mandatory, so maybe not.