Student story: Students dive into new friendships

By Melissa Hernandez

Nervous teenage journalists savored ice cream as they roamed around the terrace, not knowing what to expect.

The ice cream social and pool party, hosted by the Flint Hills Publications Workshop, was a chance to mix with peers.
 
“At first it was awkward because only a few people were swimming,” Kumen Kossaw, from Salina Central, said. “But then it got good once people got in.”

At first, girls gathered uncomfortably in their circle of friends, like a herd protecting their young. Their eyes scanned the pool for any sign of movement. It started with five boys flipping into the pool.

“Soon after, a lot of people were inside the pool,” Kossaw said.

Laughter filled the pool as water splashed in all directions, and
water games became a bonding experience for campers.
 
“A lot of people seemed close and open in the pool,” Elizabeth Laffere, of Salina Central, said. “Everyone was playing Marco Polo.”

She said the ice cream social allowed her to approach people beyond her high school classmates.
  
“I talked to two girls from other schools,” Laffere said. “One of the girls turned out to be my hotel neighbor, and we’re getting close now.”

Dripping swimsuits, ice cream and laughter concluded the night.

"It ended up being a fun get together," Laffere said.
  
Melissa Hernandez is a senior at Kapaun Mt. Carmel High School and a student in the advanced writing class.