Who you should shadow this year

By Kate Stukenborg

Art by ​Hallie Anderson

Chances are you are nowhere near ready for the real world. While being a St. Mary’s girl is full of perks — extremely kind people and a turkey mascot — we eventually all have to leave this bubble of a place. It sounds scary, but don’t fear! Real World 101 Career Shadow Day is right around the corner on February 28, and it’s the perfect time to get a better idea of life outside St. Mary’s. Plenty of students have the opportunity to shadow some of Memphis’s talented doctors, lawyers or educators. 

But don’t you want something more juicy than that? 

If you’ve always dreamed of being Tik Tok famous, might I suggest shadowing one of the members of The Hype House? Honestly, there’s no better way to understand the real world than to head on over to sunny Los Angeles where a group of teenagers owns an extravagant mansion. Charli D’Amelio or Lil Huddy can teach you everything you need to know about the look, moves and lifestyle needed for Tik Tok success. Dancing skills are not required for this shadow experience, but brush up on your knowledge of Tik Tik sounds and plan on multiple clothing changes.  

If you love performing and being in the spotlight, but Tik Tik isn’t your thing, I have the perfect person for you. Travel back to simpler times and let the beloved Sister Wendy guide you through the process of starring in riveting historical documentaries. Aspiring historians, videographers and thespians alike could learn by observing the process behind such incredible films such as Sister Wendy’s Odyssey.

This last idea is for all those who have an endless supply of spirit and energy but don’t exactly know how to use it in the real world. Spend a day with the St. Mary’s turkey to learn all about life as a school mascot. The best mascot out there can teach you the ropes of hyping up a crowd, dancing and taking pictures with small children without making them cry. 

In the words of Ms. Pitts,  "Forget the FBI. Forget the zoo. The hype house is the place to be this shadow day."