When the new leaf of the second semester flips, the uprising senior class has much to await. At Hidden Valley, 12 individuals of each senior class are selected for leadership to represent their class. This selection process is typically quiet and non-ceremonious, and therefore not many may understand how it works.
“The Titan 12 recognizes who have been outstanding leaders through their 3 years in high school. So we’re looking at not only integrity and character, but also their commitment to being apart of the titan family.” says English teacher Mrs. Griffin, who is responsible for the arrangement of Titan 12.
Griffin describes the process as what is almost a system of tallies. As the voting and selection is greatly determined by the staff, Titan 12 is not a popularity contest; unlike many other leadership roles of which are assigned by the preference of the students. Anyone is eligible to apply for Titan 12, but those who show the greatest respect for their environment, maintain an openness to learning, and express responsibility will have the greatest advantage.
Teachers and staff hold a primary vote to recognize what the 6 students who hold the best qualities attune to that of the conditions of Titan 12. From here, the previous members of Titan 12 will be included to give feedback on selection. Additionally, administration and counselors will be pulled to consider more minute details about a student such as attendance records.
Ultimately, the roster of students will be narrowed down to the potential candidates of Titan 12. Teachers will then hold a second vote to finally establish that Classe’s 12 individuals. In this phase, submitted essays are more properly examined and accounted for. In late February, the results concluding the selection process will roll in, and a live ceremony will be held in March to congratulate the selected members.
“Recently we went to all the juniors, and gave them a little bit of knowledge on how to apply. Which was the essay you have to write, and some other things listed on blackboard. As well as listing out different things you do in the community, like if you’re in a club. Clubs which help the community, volunteer hours, or being on a sport team might help you have a better chance at getting into the Titan 12,” states Titan 12 member Noah Settle (12) about details regarding application.
The newly appointed Titan 12 will assume duties later that year. Titan 12 member Worth Paisley (12) mentions the first thing done by the Titan 12 is serving as graduation modules for the parting senior class. Over the summer, they’ll meet with their sponsors and will discuss leadership activities they wish to embrace. In the following year, the Titan 12 serve as role models, hold fundraisers, and speak for the student population in PTSO meetings. It is busy work, though worthwhile to build a better school environment.
9th grade orientation is accompanied by tours executed by the Titan 12 members. Homecoming and Prom are governed by the Titan 12, as well as Student Mentoring. There is no shortage of necessity that the school has for the Titan 12 members.
In fact, this year the Titan Twelve nominees began a remarkable long-term project: the record of past and present Titan 12 members, to preserve their names in proper school history. As Hidden Valley is a newer established school compared to most in the valley, this idea had not been implemented just yet. However, the addition of this record will do a small but great part in saving the growing history of our school.
So, with that in mind, those with a desire still may wonder: If I want to get into Titan 12, what do I need to do?
Griffin states that the ideal set off for Titan 12 is automatically to follow the Titan traits. And surely enough, that is solid advice. Nothing could set better groundwork for your endeavors. Partaking in school activities and forming good relationships with your teachers are also fantastic ideas. Other past activities, such as involvement in sports, clubs, and electives, plus good academics, like performing well in your classes and having a good attendance record will only do you more good.
There are many things you can technically do to “sweeten” your chances. But above all, one thing matters.
If you are inspired by the thought of being in Titan 12, evaluate your purpose and what Titan 12 means to you. There is one main distinction between what makes a Titan 12 member and what doesn’t: the drive. Is Titan 12 an opportunity for you to express yourself and actively participate in your community? Or, alternatively, does Titan 12 simply fill the role of a prestigious title for you soak up into your college resume? Of course, the latter is dismissed in selection.
It all comes down to this: If you hold a true desire to help others around you and have a drive to improve the world you see, congratulations! You’ve already taken half the journey. That drive you see is your potential, and the ticket to Titan 12. The best way to do anything, be it to apply to Titan 12 or just to thrive, is to simply seek the best of in yourself.
Don’t focus so much on the integral details, like how to make yourself a more desirable applicant. Focus more on what you can be and do for others. Taking courage in yourself and showing compassion for the ordinary around you will open the world to your hands, and give you the best advantage you can have. So, for those dreaming to one day join the ranks of Titan 12, don’t give up! This is only the beginning of what you’re capable of.
“There are people who are very qualified but don’t have the drive to apply for it. If you don’t have the drive to apply for Titan 12, well, that is contradicting what Titan 12 is about. It’s about getting yourself out there and putting yourself forward. So, what that application process is ultimately trying to decide, is who is obviously passionate about doing this?” clarifies Titan 12 member Brennan Metz (12).
