Senior Spotlight: Lola Milder (12-3)

another two hours with them. Spending time together became much more intentional during Covid. In the winter, we spent so much time shivering in parks, literally using hand and foot warmers, just to spend time together while being safe with Covid. Even though those times were painful (and I’m so grateful that it’s no longer 30 degrees outside), I think that’s what I’ll remember from this strange senior year.

What is a motto/quote that you stand by?

That’s hard! Now I’m embarrassed that I don’t have a life motto... Here’s something: I read a book by Jenny Slate, who’s a comedian and actress, and a line in it stuck out to me. It’s something like “as the image of myself becomes sharper and more precious, I am less afraid that something else or someone else will erase it by denying me love.” Basically, that you become less afraid of the world because you’re more sure of yourself. That's not really a life motto but it has stuck with me. I think my favorite part about getting older and getting closer to graduating (as scary as it is) has been that I have a better grip on what I like to do and listen to and wear and all these pieces that make us who we are. So I guess it’s a motto in the way that I hope that everyone slowly gets this clearer image of themselves and is less worried that something will take that away.

As one of the most incredible runners, what is your fondest memory of running?

It's been such a beautiful thing to feel nostalgic about Cross Country and Track to any extent, which feels taboo to admit. I say that because I felt so much stress about performance for a long time, feeling physically sick before some races. It wasn’t just me, during so many practices all of us would joke about quitting. After a while, though, you start to take yourself seriously. It’s so grueling. So many times, I questioned: Damn, I really should have joined volleyball. Why am I here? This is so painful. In junior year, I remember making a conscious decision to say less of that to the underclassmen, but the negative voice still existed in my head. Now as a senior, it's really incredible to see that I feel so positive about it. I’m reassured that I did this for four years because there’s so much to love. This year’s seasons, although really abnormal, were a big part in changing that negative mindset. I enjoyed racing for the first time since freshman year. I’ll miss it, and I’m happy to recognize that.

I think that so many of my favorite moments—with Cross Country and Track and Masterman as a whole—happened on non-descript days. I couldn’t tell you what day of the week it was; it wasn’t some fancy championship or something. Being at practice, loitering around the auditorium after practice or getting food or waiting for the bus at the end of the meet: those are my favorite moments. The team is so great; it didn’t matter where we were, it was just fun to hang out. There’s something that really connects people when you’re sweating next to each other, and in so much pain next to each other, but you’re doing it together. At least in this one part of your life, you feel like “Wow. We just had the same experience!” and that’s so rare. I think that that brings people really close. We understand each other better because of it. I’m very grateful for the team. And for our coaches, Mr. Comfort and Mr. Borda!

Describe your ideal day? What would make your days most enjoyable?

I feel like this year has been an experiment in what makes a good day because so many of my days are really similar but some are definitely better than others. I’ve started to recognize these simple things that made the difference between a good day and a bad day. Like going outside; I always have a better day when I spend time outside. And especially if I’m moving: if I’m running or biking or walking, that always makes me feel better. Same with spending time with friends and family. Those things are so simple and they can happen in so many different ways, but they make a difference. So, my ideal day is one where I'm spending time outside, especially if it’s a sunny day, being with people and eating well and moving well. I can almost guarantee that would be a good day.

What is or are your pet peeve(s)?

Hmm… I think mine would be stupid little things that are rude or unhelpful. Like it boggles my mind when people throw trash on the ground. It doesn't make sense. It's just ugly. Little things like that. In the same way that someone would hog subway seats or be rude to a retail employee or something like that.

As a senior, is there anything you regret doing/ not doing during your time as a high schooler?

Oh, I have plenty of embarrassing moments or bad decisions that I’ve made. But, as cliche as it is, I really don't think that I regret any of those things even though they were painfully uncomfortable in the moment. I can’t let them be in vain so I’m choosing to tell myself that I’m a better version of myself because of those moments. At the very least, a humbled version. If anything, I wish I’d said “yes” to more things.

If you were given the power to change anything about the world, what would you change and why?

One of my least favorite sayings is “ignorance is bliss.” I would hope that people aren’t comfortable recognizing their own reluctance to learn something new or listen to someone new. The world is a better place when more people are interested in the lives of the people around them. I know that’s lame and super general but I think that’s the beginning of a bunch of our other problems.