Senior legacy: Yasemin Kalpakci

Lily Johnson, Opinion Editor

May 14, 2026

Q: How have you made The Trail a better program? What was your contribution?

I was told to always leave the Trail better than I found it by Ms. Woolf and I’ve tried my best to follow that principle. From finding a way to implement every bit of knowledge from the GSPA and NSPA sessions I’ve attended to always helping my fellow staff, I hope that I have made my mark on the next generation of leaders and staff.

Q: What college do you plan on attending, and what will your major studies be?

I’m not a hundred percent sure of where I want to go or what I want to do in life yet. I have so many things I would love to do.

Q: What is your favorite memory from your years on The Trail staff?

I will forever cherish my first NSPA trip with Nyla and Grace. From getting lost in the marketplace to eating the best Philly cheesesteak of my life and learning to make the Trail a better place, I loved every bit of that trip and getting to know my best friends.

Q: What are you proudest of in your time with The Trail?

I feel proudest when I reflect on all of the awards that I and other staff members have won. From all of my GSPA All-Georgia awards and my Best of SNO to the Trails SNO Distinguished site award. It makes me so proud to know that all of our hard work is recognized and appreciated.

Q: What words of wisdom do you have for the upcoming editors and staff?

Remember to enjoy your time with others on staff, find joy in making the best stories you can, to always try your hardest and to remain your kindest self. Your work, every word you write and every word you speak matters immensely.

Q: Provide a fun or interesting fact/hobby you have.

I really enjoy drawing and writing. I love to be creative.

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About the Contributors

Lily Johnson, Opinion Editor

Lily Johnson is a junior at McIntosh High School and is serving her third year on the Trail and is currently serving as the Opinion Editor. During Johnson’s free time, she enjoys spending time outdoors. She loves going on long golf cart rides, watching the sunset and spending time with friends and family. She enjoys listening to music, her favorite genres consisting of punk, rock, and metal. “I think spending time with family is very important so I try to spend as much time with them as I can.”

Betty Jane Plitt, Photo Editor

Betty Jane Plitt is currently a sophomore at McIntosh and is serving her second year on the Trail as photo editor. Plitt often spends her free time hanging out with her friends, doing homework, or getting matcha. She also enjoys crocheting and reading as hobbies. Plitt is also a music enthusiast, tuning in to Laufey, Faye Webster, and Clairo most often. Plitt also enjoys volunteering at places such as the Midwest Food Bank or Royal Animal Refuge. Although when she gets a chance away from her usual activities, Plitt is also part of colorguard in the McIntosh Marching Band. She currently spins both flag and rifle. Plitt took part in the New Voices Student Leaders Institute this past summer, where she learned all about the New Voices bill and started advocating to get it passed in Georgia. She and two other journalists from Georgia are working on contacting legislators to introduce the bill. As a member of the Trail, Plitt hopes to expand her knowledge on writing, on-site journaling and meeting deadlines.