"Cosine" by Nicki N from the October issue stands out as an article that speaks to me. In a seemingly calm and collected voice, Nicki beautifully and honestly depicts her views on trigonometry- pure, unadulterated loathing. Aversion. Hatred. This victim of a computational conundrum clearly conveys the emotions that we have all experienced at one point or another. This aversion of a school subject is not easy to explain- it is simply present within us, like a hairball that has clogged the fountain of our thoughts, preventing all ideas from flowing out. Still, I believe that Nicki tackles the issue through the use of sarcasm, humor, and short but sweet phrases that give the article depth.

This story is indeed the tale of a suffering schoolgirl who is inclined to give in to the stress of the transition between middle school and high school, and cannot seem to admit that she may be in need of assistance. This situation is one that nobody can avoid, and is truly overwhelming as one enters the "realm of excessive homework, sleep deprivation, and lousy cafeteria food." Without being too straightforward, Nicki summarizes the troubles of a school that fails to understand what the top priority of every teenager is- living, breathing, and trying to change one's status from "facing a numerical nuisance" to "fighting for a future boyfriend." Kudos to you, Nicki, for your bravery in expressing your true emotions and your battle against the power of trigonometry. May the most valiant win!