STEM 2023 - The Statesman by The Statesman

NOVEMBER 2023

THE STATESMAN

The inaugural class of the Chancellor’s Summer Research Excellence Fund which facilitated the University’s Summer Opportunity for Academic Research (SOAR). The program offers students the opportunity to participate in summer research at Stony Brook. PHOTO COURTESY OF STONY BROOK NEWS

Stony Brook introduces SOAR, a new research pilot program By Mariam Ismail Stony Brook University’s new pilot research program for underprivileged students, Summer Opportunity for Academic Research (SOAR), made its debut on May 30 and concluded on August 4. The SOAR program, completely funded by SUNY, offered students from economicallydisadvantaged backgrounds the opportunity to participate in full-time, 10-week-long summer research at Stony Brook, along with on-campus housing, a meal plan stipend and a $5,000 stipend for the research work. Although the program itself was held on Stony Brook’s campus, it was also open to students at SUNY Old Westbury, Suffolk County Community College and Farmingdale State College who may not have had access to summer research opportunities otherwise. Of the 25 students selected to be part of the program, 20 were from Stony Brook and five were from other SUNY schools.

Director for the Center for Inclusive Education (CIE) Karian Wright described the purpose of this program. “What this program will do is ensure the students have the qualifications to move forward [i]n their academic journey[s],” Wright said. In addition to their full-time research, students were required to attend weekly professional development programs that included graduate students, graduate program directors and speakers from the Career Center, which allowed them to gain perspective and insight on what they could do after the program ended. Freshman biology major Ada Lin participated in the program this past summer, competing in a synthetic biology competition titled International Genetically Engineered Machine (IGEM). SOAR provided Ada with the funds she

needed to be able to stay on campus during the summer and work on her research with her team. “I don’t have to worry about financial stuff and I can just focus fully on IGEM alone,” Lin said. What makes SOAR stand out compared to other research programs like IGEM is the lack of constraint on what the students can do. Any student interested in conducting research — regardless of their major — is allowed to apply to SOAR, and the research projects include a multitude of topics that incoroprate all of the STEM fields. Junior biomedical engineering major Alisha Tejada, who took part in SOAR over the summer and won the Undergraduate Research & Creative Activities researcher of the month award in August, commended the program. “Not only did it help me academically, it also helped me mentally,” Tejada said. “I felt

more confident as a result of participating in my research lab and if it wasn’t for SOAR, I don’t think I would be as confident to apply to internships and jobs.” The program concluded with the summer research symposium, where each of the 25 students presented the research that they worked on all summer through a scientific poster. “Watching the transition over the 10 weeks and the transformation of how they become confident scientists by the end is so beautiful,” Program Manager for CIE and SOAR Lisa Ospitale remarked. As of right now, there is no guarantee that SOAR will continue to be funded moving forward. However, there are high hopes that SUNY will provide compensation and allow even more slots to open for students.

Opinion: There must be a complete ban on TikTok in the U.S. By Vinod Kripalani

I have always firmly believed that ensuring the safety of American citizens and the national security of the United States surpasses individual liberties, and this is no different when it comes to my unwavering support for banning TikTok. Joseph Moreno, a Stony Brook University alumnus who formerly served as a federal prosecutor for the United States Department

of Justice National Security Division, believes TikTok’s problematic nature, in the eyes of the U.S. government, lies with its parent company ByteDance. “For several years, the U.S. Defense Department and the Department of Justice — both members of the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States — have alleged that TikTok has been used to disseminate

misinformation and share geolocation and other private user data with the Chinese government,” Moreno said. “While ByteDance denies these allegations, it has admitted that employees accessed data on American journalists’ TikTok accounts in the past.” From COVID-19 origins to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) buying U.S. farmland, China has taken advantage of

the U.S.’s unwillingness to address their questionable actions; if the U.S. bans TikTok, American dominance in world affairs will be demonstrated, intimidating the CCP at a vital time when China may be invading Taiwan. Unfortunately, many libertarians — such as those in the Republican Party — who are nationally known to embrace individual liberties, have not taken the Continued on page 9

Opinion: Can AI lead to the spread of fascist agendas?

STEM EDITION 2023

By Aloki Pandya

Artificial intelligence (AI) has quickly become a prolific aspect of modern daily life, from AI learning tools like ChatGPT and Grammarly to embedded AI features in Google and Snapchat. As AI’s utilization becomes increasingly widespread, discussions should be held surrounding the implications of using such tools. Americans and the media tend to fear the idea that AI will gain sentience or power over the livelihoods and thoughts of individuals, but there needs to be a shift in concern to how AI may be used to spread potentially fascist political agendas through social media platforms. Unregulated AI algorithms could spread misinformation and insight extremism that suits one political identity. To understand why these are pressing concerns globally among professors and AI experts alike, there must be a distinction about how AI functions and how its mechanisms — without proper oversight — could lead to the spread of fascist ideologies. According to the National Artificial Intelligence Initiative Act of 2020, AI is defined as a “machine-based system that can, for a given set of human-defined objectives, make predictions, recommendations or decisions influencing real or virtual environments.” When AI is stripped down to its basic parts, it is merely a facet of the greater tree of computational systems and cannot directly influence the sociopolitical space by itself. However, under the dictation of political parties that wish to use such a tool to influence the public sphere, it can be equally powerful and destructive. “AI has arrived at a level where people find it useful in ways that were previously

unknown,” Andrew Schwartz, professor in the Department of Computer Science, said. “It has become general enough to where people are finding new applications for it that developers couldn’t anticipate.” But how does this possibility lead to the fear of AI being used to encourage fascist ideologies? The rise of fascist parties has been a decades-long phenomenon. Propagators of these movements have used any mechanism available at their disposal to bring about the sociopolitical changes they desire. During the “Business Plot’’ of 1933, right-wing, big-name financiers used their abundance of money, weapons and connections to lead a force of veterans in an attempt to overthrow the former United States President Franklin D. Roosevelt. The AI system is based on the premise that it can make predictions and understand patterns to influence a user’s choices online. The problem is that these predictions fail to have nuance or understanding of ethical boundaries outside of the creator’s original intentions. Because of AI’s current usage, it has the potential to be used by authoritarian parties for security and online applications, and to single out marginalized people in an effort to criminalize or misrepresent them to advance their agendas. Examples of AI being used in this manner have already been seen. Dan McQuillan, author of “Resisting AI: An Anti-fascist Approach to Artificial Intelligence,” writes, “If a facial recognition algorithm is primarily trained on a dataset of white faces, for example, it will struggle when asked to recognize Black faces.” If not exposed to the necessary data, AI could discriminately mark people who go

A Canva AI-generated artwork depicting a fascist robot leader in front of an angry crowd of protestors. Unregulated AI algorithms could lead to the spread of misinformation and insight to extremism. BRITTNEY DIETZ/THE STATESMAN

through their algorithms, which malicious actors can use on a wide scale to further ostracize minorities or those unfavorable to the particular ideology they are pushing. There is also a concern about the biases towards certain languages in AI data and large language models. “AI is more biased towards English, but this is helped with larger language models,” Schwartz said. “There is still a gap between

Western Languages and poorer regions of the world.” This gap prevents AI from reaching a level of cultural awareness necessary to reflect every culture outside of the West. This can be problematic when AI and algorithms sometimes create political echo chambers for users based on that user’s past data; this Western language preference also comes with Western culture and societal biases. Continued on page 8

How AI can improve sustainability in fashion

By Emily Chao

Although there are many concerns over how artificial intelligence (AI) will encroach on arts and creativity, there are some areas in which implementing AI can be beneficial, such as in the creation of environmentally-sustainable decisions in the fashion industry for consumers and producers. In the opening scene of the 1995 film “Clueless,” Cher Horowitz, played by Alicia Silverstone, uses her computer to match clothes from her wardrobe and virtually dress herself in the iconic yellow plaid suit. At that time, the novel idea of a computer program linked to Cher’s vast wardrobe catalog was a fun and gamified meld of fashion and technology. Since then, several application developers have utilized AI technologies in developing this concept of a virtual closet. These AIdriven applications often allow you to upload pieces in your closet to keep track of what you own, suggest outfit combinations and provide data on how frequently you wore a certain garment. One of the more notable applications is ACloset, which aims to provide a smart tool for the future of fashion in the face of waste and overconsumption in the fashion industry. Sewing and fashion YouTuber withwendy documented her experience of uploading images of her wardrobe to the app and the results after using it for six months. She came to the difficult truth that she only used 52% of

her wardrobe. She cited style, color and fit as common reasons for not wearing certain items of clothing. Other apps, such as Save Your Wardrobe or Pronti AI, have a similar approach with the ability to sell clothes, share fashion inspiration and request clothing repair services. Users can analyze their data to identify preferred clothing styles, understand underused items and inform future shopping choices, which ultimately reduces overconsumption as withwendy does in her review. Most importantly, apps like these could help consumers maximize their wardrobes and think more consciously about their consumption habits. Before clothing becomes accessible to consumers, significant waste is generated during production. According to Timo Rissanen, an associate professor of fashion and textiles at the University of Technology Sydney, approximately 15% of the total fabric used in modern fashion production is discarded. This waste can be in the form of swatches, damaged fabric, cutting textiles and overstock. When creating clothing, a majority of the fashion industry uses the cut-and-sew method. The fabric is cut following a pattern or template, and then the individual pieces are sewed together. In the case of most contemporary fashion designs, this results in small or irregularly-shaped remnants that are often deemed unusable. Although these scraps can

potentially be repurposed through downcycling — for instance, being made into insulation — it is ideal to optimize fabric usage during cutting to minimize waste as much as possible. In turn, it could also reduce the amount of fabric ordered for production. Reverse Resources is a platform connecting suppliers and recycling partners to reduce textile waste and promote circularity in the fashion industry. According to a 2017 paper the platform published, “Due to expected production inefficiency, 3 to 10% extra fabric needs to be bought to cover unavoidable cutting scraps.” The overestimation of fabric A graphic showing a woman surrounded by clothing usually results in the disposal of end-of-rolls and accessories with circuit board elements. Artificial intelligence has been beneficial to creation of waste, which is the excess fabric left on the sustainable fashion. ILLUSTRATED BY BRITTNEY DIETZ/THE STATESMAN rolls after the pattern pieces are cut. AI can help arrange pattern pieces to Although some of these percentages sound enhance fabric cutting and accurately estimate insignificant, they translate to substantial the amount of fabric needed to prevent excess amounts when considering the 100 billion end-of-rolls waste. garments produced and 92 million tons of Duc Hanh Garment JSC, a Vietnamese textile waste created yearly. Reverse Resources clothing manufacturer that produces for Polo say that textile waste in clothing manufacturing Ralph Lauren, implemented the AI-based is “systematically underestimated,” with system IntelloCut in 2018 to improve efficiency accounts of some factories having leftover and decrease waste in production. According to textile percentages as high as 47%. This often a case study by the provider of IntelloCut, Coats forgotten aspect of the fashion industry is Digital, IntelloCut improved manufacturing further evidence of why change needs to occur. efficiency by automating and optimizing While many efforts can be taken by processes. As a result, it reduced fabric waste consumers and producers, AI-driven apps and by almost 2% after three years and provided systems are a few examples of how AI can be more accurate fabric requirements to prevent a positive tool for consumers and producers to excess ordering. reduce clothing waste.

THE STATESMAN

Opinion: How harmful is 5G really? By Samantha Rutt

An innovation in connectivity, the fifth-generation mobile network (5G) has generated excitement and controversy in equal measure. While it promises faster internet speed and a more connected world, concerns have arisen regarding its potentially harmful effects on life as we know it. Thought to be a helpful innovation, 5G technologies are harmful, though not in the way fear mongers and other related conspiracists believe it to be. That irrational fear of the unknown presented itself to me on the day of the nationwide emergency alert test. I found myself lounging with a book in hand on the beach, soaking in the early October weather when at around 2:20 p.m. — the designated time of the alert — my cell phone alarm sounded, triggering a woman bathing in the water 100 feet down the beach. The woman instantly became confrontational, screeching from the water, “Turn that off! Turn that off! Some of us came here to escape all of that crazed madness!” Rapidly approaching, the woman continued to angrily explain what she believed to be the harms of the emergency alert. She advised me to turn off my cellular device to adequately shield myself from the supposed “500 megahertz of electromagnetic frequencies” that the test alert would emit via my device. I packed up and left the beach, hoping to find the tranquility I had before the bathing lady’s interruption. Understanding conspiracies and that fear of this new technology exists, the bathing lady sparked my curiosity to learn if any of her crazed yelling was logical or scientifically backed. 5G is the fifth generation of wireless technology for cellular networks, offering significantly faster data transfer speeds and enhanced capacity compared to its

predecessors: 2G, 3G and 4G. It enables the seamless connectivity of many devices, including smartphones. To deliver these benefits, 5G relies on advanced network infrastructure and higherfrequency radio spectrum to provide faster and more reliable wireless communication. Stony Brook University’s campus recently became home to a 5G tower, standing nearly 160 feet tall between the softball field and the Stony Brook Athletics Indoor Practice Facility. This tower is just one of 40 towers and 149 antennae within a three-mile radius of the University. It has been heavily debated whether or not 5G poses a threat to human health. Scientific research on the potential health effects of 5G is ongoing, and there remains a limited consensus on the subject. One of the primary concerns surrounding 5G technology is the perceived increase in radiation exposure. It has been argued that the higher-frequency electromagnetic waves in 5G networks may pose a risk to human health. However, it is important to note that radiofrequency (RF) radiation — including that used in 5G — is non-ionizing, meaning it lacks the energy to damage DNA or cells like ionizing radiation, such as X-rays or gamma rays, can. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has suggested a link between RF radiation exposure and specific health issues, while others have not found such a connection. People have reported sensitivities to electromagnetic frequencies emitted via 5G technology and have symptoms such as headache, fatigue, stress, sleep disturbances, skin irregularities and aching muscles. A survey conducted by the World Health Organization (WHO) estimated the prevalence of electromagnetic hypersensitivity to be a few individuals per million within the population.

A graphic of a transmission tower on a world map with wifi icons. 5G is the fifth generation of wireless technology for cellular networks, offering significantly faster data transfer speeds and enhanced capacity. K ILLUSTRATOR PHOTO - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

In addition to physical health concerns, some critics worry about the psychological and sociological effects of 5G technology, arguing that the constant connectivity enabled by 5G can lead to smartphone addiction, stress and reduced in-person interactions. While these concerns are valid, they are generally related to the use and overuse of the technology rather than the technology itself. Government agencies and international organizations, including the Food and Drug Administration, WHO and FCC, have established safety guidelines and exposure limits for RF radiation. Some of the ways to protect yourself include “reducing the amount of time spent on a cell phone, using speaker mode to place more distance between your head and cell phone and avoiding making calls when the signal is weak, as this can cause cell phones to boost RF transmission power,” as stated in the safety guidelines. These standards are designed to protect you from any potentially harmful effects, pointing out that the rollout of 5G networks is subject to compliance with these safety limits.

It is undeniable that 5G has the potential to encourage significant advancements in various fields, including healthcare, transportation and communication. Such technology may pave the way for more efficient vehicles and telemedicine. However, we should utilize it with a sense of responsibility. Public awareness and education are vital in addressing the concerns surrounding 5G. Ensuring that the public understands the risks and benefits can help dispel fears, encourage rational discussions on the subject and avoid uncomfortable confrontations at the beach. But the debate over the potentially harmful effects of 5G on human health is far from settled. While there are concerns, it is crucial to recognize that strict safety standards are in place to protect the public. As 5G technology is deployed, continued research, transparency and informed decision-making are essential. Rather than demonizing the technology, we should focus on harnessing its potential while remaining vigilant about its risks; in doing so, we can maximize the benefits of 5G and minimize any potentially harmful effects.

Opinion: Brightspace: An easy-to-use option for simplified learning By Xingling Yu

Among the many educational platforms, I see Brightspace as the better option for organizing and presenting course information compared to alternatives like Blackboard or Google Classroom. Even amidst faculty and student feedback, the recently implemented platform proves its worth. I like how user-friendly Brightspace is. For instance, a notification from Pulse — the mobile app for Brightspace — gives me all the information about where the professor has posted the lesson, making it convenient for me to find necessary course materials quickly. Brightspace enhances my learning experience by readily providing me access to course materials. When I started my first semester at Stony Brook University, I began using Brightspace. Initially, it confused me, as I used Google Classroom for four years during high school. Brightspace has a function where professors can create quizzes directly on the platform. However, unlike Google Classroom, the assessment is administered on a thirdparty website like Google Forms. In my experience, Google Classroom

experiences significant delays; Brightspace tends to be much faster. Furthermore, Brightspace enables professors to monitor each student’s progress and performance. The more I interacted with Brightspace, the easier it became for me to handle. “I think it is user-friendly since all the tabs are labeled and easy to access. However, userfriendliness depends on the device you log-in on. The website is easy to navigate,” Arisa Ko, a sophomore majoring in health science, said. “If you use the app on an iPad or iPhone, it is hard to download files. You have to log-in to the website to download, which is annoying. It is better than Blackboard, though.” Brightspace organizes all your courses by term. For example, your fall classes will be grouped together, as will your spring classes. Within each course, there are separate categories for course content, assignments, exams/quizzes, discussions, class progress and grades. This makes it easy to find and access the information you need for each individual course. “It is challenging since you have separate classes. It is more convenient to separate

A graphic depicting mixed reviews about the main educational platform used at SUNY schools, Brightspace. After the previous educational platform, Blackboard, was removed in 2022, SUNY chose D2L Brightspace as the next self-hosted platform. ILLUSTRATED BY MACKENZIE YADDAW/THE STATESMAN

Continued on page 11

STEM EDITION 2023

ChatGPT’s ‘reporting’ on the future of AI in journalism Generated by ChatGPT Prompt: Write me a 1,000 word news article about artificial intelligence in the journalism industry. Title: “AI Revolutionizes Journalism: Navigating the Digital Frontier” In a world where information flows at an unprecedented rate, the journalism industry finds itself at the intersection of tradition and technological innovation. Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative force, reshaping the way news is gathered, reported, and consumed. From automating mundane tasks to enhancing investigative journalism, AI is proving to be a valuable ally in the fast-paced landscape of news dissemination. The Rise of Automated Reporting One of the most visible impacts of AI in journalism is the rise of automated reporting. News organizations are increasingly employing Natural Language Processing (NLP) algorithms to sift through vast amounts of data and generate news articles quickly. This allows journalists to focus on more complex tasks while AI handles routine reporting tasks. Automated reporting systems analyze data sets, identify trends, and generate coherent news stories in real-time. The Associated Press (AP) has been a pioneer in this field, utilizing Automated Insights’ Wordsmith platform to produce thousands of news stories on corporate earnings reports. This not only expedites the reporting process but also ensures accuracy and consistency in the coverage of data-driven events. Personalized Content Delivery AI algorithms are also behind the scenes in the customization of news content based on individual preferences. As readers increasingly turn to digital platforms for news consumption, AI-driven recommendation systems analyze user behavior to deliver personalized content. News apps and websites leverage machine learning algorithms to understand reading habits, suggesting articles that align with users’ interests and preferences. For instance, platforms like Flipboard and Google News use AI to curate a personalized news feed, offering a tailored experience for each user. This not only enhances user engagement but also helps in breaking the filter bubble by exposing readers to a diverse range of perspectives. Fact-Checking and Verifying Information In an era where misinformation and fake news proliferate, AI is becoming a critical tool for fact-checking and verifying information. Automated factchecking systems employ machine learning algorithms to analyze the credibility of sources, cross-reference information, and flag potentially misleading content. Organizations like Factmata and Full Fact are at the forefront of using AI to combat misinformation. These tools not only assist journalists in verifying information but also empower readers to make informed decisions by providing accurate and reliable content. Enhancing Investigative Journalism AI is proving to be a powerful ally for investigative journalists, aiding them in uncovering hidden patterns and insights within massive datasets. Advanced data analysis and machine learning algorithms can reveal connections, trends, and

anomalies that might go unnoticed by human investigators. The International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ) used AI in its groundbreaking Panama Papers investigation. Machine learning algorithms helped sift through millions of

Ethical Considerations and Challenges While AI presents numerous opportunities for the journalism industry, it also brings forth ethical considerations and challenges. The potential for bias in algorithms, the risk of perpetuating existing prejudices, and concerns

A Canva AI-generated artwork depicting a robot writing an article about artificial intelligence in the journalism industry. MACKENZIE YADDAW/THE STATESMAN

documents, identify key players, and unravel the intricate web of offshore financial activities. This application of AI not only expedited the investigative process but also brought to light information that may have otherwise remained hidden.

about job displacement are among the issues that need careful consideration. Algorithmic bias, for example, can result in skewed news coverage, reinforcing stereotypes and excluding certain perspectives. News organizations must implement robust ethical guidelines and

continuously monitor AI systems to mitigate bias and ensure fair representation. Furthermore, the integration of AI raises concerns about job displacement within the journalism industry. While AI streamlines certain processes, it is crucial for news organizations to prioritize upskilling and retraining journalists to adapt to the evolving technological landscape. The Future of AI in Journalism As AI continues to evolve, its role in journalism is expected to expand even further. Predictive analytics, sentiment analysis, and the use of AI in virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) storytelling are some areas poised for growth. Predictive analytics can help news organizations anticipate trends and identify emerging stories by analyzing patterns in social media, online discussions, and other digital platforms. Sentiment analysis allows journalists to gauge public reactions and tailor their reporting to better resonate with the audience. The integration of AI in VR and AR storytelling is another frontier that holds immense potential. By creating immersive and interactive experiences, journalists can provide audiences with a deeper understanding of complex issues, transporting them to the heart of a story. Conclusion Artificial Intelligence is reshaping the journalism industry, offering new tools and capabilities that were once thought to be in the realm of science fiction. From automating routine tasks to enhancing investigative reporting, AI is proving to be a valuable asset in the fast-paced world of news dissemination. While the benefits are clear, news organizations must navigate ethical considerations and ensure that AI is deployed responsibly. As the industry continues to adapt to the digital age, the synergy between human journalists and AI technologies will likely define the future of journalism, offering readers a more personalized, accurate, and engaging news experience. Although news articles typically do not contain “Conclusion” subheads, ChatGPT provided a substantial amount of information on the future of artificial intelligence in journalism. The content was digestible and the grammar was mostly on par. It acknowledged ethical challenges, aware that artificial intelligence has the capacity to perpetuate prejudices and biases. However, it has its limitations when it comes to writing in a traditional news style. No interviews were conducted, as ChatGPT cannot find sources and reach out to them with organic questions on a topic. Breaking news cannot be reported, as the technology only draws information prior to 2022, as it suggests, “checking the latest news sources or other reliable outlets for information on events in 2022 and beyond.” The article was not written in standard AP style, with subheadings for different segments and Oxford commas used in its lists. And when asked for 1,000 words, ChatGPT only provided 831. AI is unable to discover the raw news that is continuously unfolding around the world, or conduct investigative work to serve as a watchdog for national institutions and systems in place. While ChatGPT may be able to assist journalists in their reporting, it cannot replace them just yet.

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‘Tis the season of seasonal depression By Sarah Chaudhry

Seasonal depression, formally known as seasonal affective disorder (SAD), is one type of psychological mood disorder that is linked to depression. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, SAD is a mood disorder that mimics symptoms of depression, with triggers being shorter days and less daylight in the fall and winter. According to the American Psychiatric Association, approximately 5% of American adults have experienced SAD. “[SAD] tends to happen in geographical regions that are further from the equator, as there is less sunlight,” said Dr. Lucian Manu, the director of neuromodulation in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health at Stony Brook Hospital. Manu, who also directs and leads a research program for those struggling with mood disorders, explained that SAD episodes typically occur during a four-to-five-month span throughout the fall and winter seasons. According to Manu, it is common for people who suffer from SAD to be relieved of their depressive symptoms once the longer days and warmer months arrive. “[These changes] mimic symptoms of depression,” Manu said. “Such as almost daily or daily experiencing sadness that comes out of nowhere or overtly appropriate for situations, losing interest in things, experiencing appetite or weight loss and energy changes — sluggish, tired and not as willing to do usual activities.” However, the opposite may also hold true for others. Some people may experience an increase in appetite and weight gain and become stimulated with energy that is “usually not constructive.” Manu described it as an agitated, activated energy that is good for neither the brain nor the mind. SAD can also disrupt the sleep cycle, with some not sleeping enough (falling on the spectrum of insomnia) or sleeping too much (falling on the spectrum of hypersomnia). People with this disorder tend to have changes in their outlook on themselves and situations, typically feeling more frequent or stronger senses of hopelessness, helplessness, worthlessness and, at an extreme, can feel so depressed that they may feel suicidal. All of these changes alter the brain’s hormones and neurotransmitters — specifically and most predominantly serotonin, dopamine and melatonin. Melatonin is the hormone responsible for facilitating the body’s sleep-wake cycle, also known as circadian rhythm. It is also

Stony Brook University campus after sunset at 5:30 p.m. next to Melville Library. Seasonal depression is usually triggered by shorter days and less daylight during the fall and winter seasons. ANGELINA LIVIGNI/THE STATESMAN

responsible for regulating energy and the stages of sleep. Serotonin facilitates the body’s sleep-wake cycle, in addition to performing a variety of other functions, such as feelings of happiness, transmitting messages across nerves between the brain and the body and healing. Dopamine is the neurotransmitter responsible for pain and pleasure. These hormones and neurotransmitters regulate essential body functions and processes, so when their normal functioning is disrupted by insufficient sunlight exposure, the changes can put a damper on one’s capabilities, both mental and physical. For example, Manu stated that “there is some evidence that people with SAD have an increase of melatonin production,” so when there is less daylight for the melatonin to constantly adjust its levels, one might experience these effects since melatonin goes hand-in-hand with serotonin and dopamine. Serotonin releases melatonin and dopamine inhibits the effects of melatonin, disrupting the sleep-wake cycle by causing the body to be more alert.

He also attributed another potential cause of the changes in thinking, feeling and behavior to vitamin D deficiencies that occur when there is less sunlight for the human body to absorb. He mentioned that having lower levels of vitamin D is correlated with SAD symptoms. While there is a lot of knowledge about SAD, there are still questions and research being conducted about why some people experience SAD in different forms than others. After all, not everyone experiences SAD, not even those in the same geographical region — and if they do, the severity may be different. “Some people are genetically predisposed or [experience psychological and/or biological] vulnerabilities,” Manu said. “In general, any illness can develop from this equation [of] vulnerable terrain and a timely factor. When happening at the same time, can affect some people into having the disorder or with more severity than others.” According to a study from MedlinePlus, “SAD does not have a clear pattern of inheritance in families. Studies have found

that approximately 15 percent of individuals with seasonal affective disorder have a firstdegree relative who also has the condition. Studies show that 25 to 67 percent of people with seasonal affective disorder have one or more relatives with such a disorder.” For those who are afflicted with SAD, Manu recommends several forms of treatment. One tool he recommends is a device called a lightbox, which can reduce the effects of seasonal depression when individuals use it for 20-30 minutes a day, most often in the mornings. The light emanating from the device works to active the human brain’s hormones and transmitters. This mimics the more “normal” cycle of waking up in the spring and summer, where there is more natural light. Manu also recommenced vitamin D supplements as a form of treatment, as well as maintaining a lifestyle that includes activities that bring feelings of joy. “Doing exercise and physical activities, and doing things that make you happy and keep you occupied are all important and aid in the minimization of SAD symptoms,” he said.

STEM EDITION 2023

A graphic showing a robot’s influence on sound and music. Artificial intelligence is now infiltrating the music and film industries. ANGELINA LIVIGNI/THE STATESMAN

Artificial intelligence makes its way into the music and film industries By Patrick Larkin

This year, artificial intelligence (AI) has taken the internet by storm and is now infiltrating the music and film industries. The sensational technology began with picture generators such as DALL-E mini. Typing in a prompt on the generator creates nine pictures resembling the desired images. DALL-E mini became popular for the ridiculous prompts and poorly-generated images that users inputted. One of the most widely-shared creations emerged from the prompt “fisheye lens Voldemort smokes cigarette.” This sparked a debate over AI-generated art and whether or not it could be considered real art. Another concern is whether it constitutes stealing, especially as more sophisticated technology develops. Soon after DALL-E mini, OpenAI released ChatGPT, a chatbot that can converse with users and answer questions. Initially, it gained traction for giving out funny and incorrect answers. However, ChatGPT and its successors have evolved to such an extent that some people have begun to prefer turning to AI chatbots in place of traditional search engines when looking for a quick answer. However, one of the scariest AI technologies has been AI voice generators. These programs have the power to recreate a humanlike voice to read text prompts or engage in conversations similar to the way ChatGPT operates.

Even more disconcerting is the ability of these technologies to replicate the voices of some celebrities. Similar to photo and text generation technologies, voice cloning technology first became widely popular through memes. Two of the most prominent are the “AI presidents” and Drake memes. “AI presidents” refers to the collection of TikTok and YouTube videos featuring artificial voices of former Presidents Barack Obama and Donald Trump, as well as current President Joe Biden, engaging in casual conversations and making tier lists or discussing current events. These are small videos created as a form of satire because it is unlikely these three political figures would get along and talk so casually in reality. However, this content also has a dark side, as many of the TikTok videos cut off right before creators make the AI say an offensive slur, showing how this technology could be misused and hurt someone’s reputation. The Drake memes are AI versions of rapper Drake singing popular songs, such as “Munch (Feelin’ U)” by Ice Spice. Drake posted the meme on his Instagram story, referring to it as “the last straw.” While it’s clear that the rapper is joking, it underscores the danger and potential risks that come from this technology. These artificial songs have already

advanced greatly since the controversy earlier this year, as the quality of the pronunciation and voice cloning has only improved. As it continues to develop, there is a real concern that AI will get to the point where one cannot differentiate between an artificially- or authentically-created song. The strike by the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists further demonstrates the dangers AI technology can pose to people’s livelihoods. Over the 118-day strike, they fought with the studios over the use of AI in capturing and reproducing actors’ images and voices, which they managed to secure safeguards in the final deal. Nonetheless, the concern surrounding AI usage remains. Actors are concerned that studios will use this technology to steal and control people’s voices. If that happens, actors may find themselves without pay, even if their likeness is being used in a production. This is a danger not only for A-list celebrities but also for background actors who would not be compensated for the use of their image, threatening their ability to find employment and support their families. Another dangerous use of AI has been in deepfake advertisements in which people create fake endorsements to promote scams. Earlier this month, YouTuber MrBeast called

out a scam ad on TikTok that was using his likeness. MrBeast is very popular among children and young people who are more prone to be deceived by such an ad. As the technology develops, these ads will only become more accurate and harder to distinguish, fooling wider audiences. Eventually, we may need to analyze every video for traces of AI. Any video could be fake, and anybody could be vulnerable to the misinformation it can spread. Unfortunately, AI voices have only continued to grow in popularity. In fact, they have grown so much that studios and journalists must now clarify when something is not AI. Walt Disney Animation Studios recently released a short called “Once Upon a Studio” which featured outtake lines that Robin Williams recorded in the 1990s for the animated film “Aladdin.” When this was reported, headlines clarified that it was made “without using AI.” Clearly, this technology is only growing more common in our media landscape. It is moving beyond TikTok memes and YouTube videos and is impacting people in real life through scams and using a person’s likeness without permission. As AI continues to develop, we must find safe and useful implementations of this new technology in the entertainment industry.

THE STATESMAN

Research conducted at Brookhaven National Laboratory plays key role in predicting climate change By Beth Gatto For the past 20 years, Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL) has been developing new tools for understanding and predicting the impacts of climate change. Stony Brook University manages BNL and has been listed as the single largest user of the laboratory’s facilities, according to the Office of Brookhaven National Laboratory Affairs. This year has been recorded as one of the warmest years ever, with this year’s September ranking as the warmest one in 174 years by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The National Centers for Environmental Information also reports abnormally intense dry conditions and floods across the United States. Dr. Michael P. Jensen, a meteorologist and member of BNL’s Environmental and Climate Sciences Department, spoke to

The Statesman regarding the different ways in which this department has furthered climate change research. “Most of this research in our department is focused on three different research areas: one, atmospheric aerosols, two, clouds and three, terrestrial ecosystems,” Jensen said. Studying the life cycles of tiny particles known as aerosols — which can be natural or man-made — and their characteristics offer important insights into radiation levels in the atmosphere. “These play an important role in climate [research] through their interactions with radiation, such as sunlight and terrestrial radiation, and as cloud condensation nuclei and the subsequent changes in cloud formation,” Jensen said. Second, the studies of cloud formation, precipitation from cloud droplets and

turbulence helps scientists model how weather and precipitation will be impacted by climate change. Alexandria Marhone, a junior atmospheric sciences major, spoke about the general importance of understanding the role clouds play in our climate. “An important characteristic of clouds is their reflectivity,” Marhone said. “They reflect incoming sun radiation which is good for maintaining the average global heat or energy budget.” Interaction between aerosols and clouds has also been shown to impact the strength of thunderstorms. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, climate change will increase the intensity of storms across the United States. Jensen, who is also a group lweader of the Cloud Processes Group, described the

A banner hung around all of Stony Brook’s campus stating that the University is driving the New York Climate Change. SBU is the single-largest user of the Brookhaven National Laboratory’s facilities. BRITTNEY DIETZ/THE STATESMAN

research methods used to understand cloud processes such as droplets and ice formation. These include computer modeling, field measurements from the surface, aircrafts and satellites and laboratory measurements. “Modeling clouds in climate models is very beneficial since aerosols in the clouds and water vapor amounts can determine anticipated precipitation, severe weather events, strength and frequency and more,” Marhone said. BNL also aims to improve research on terrestrial ecosystems and how they interact with the Earth’s atmosphere, as well as the ability to predict future climate states as climate change progresses. “They particularly focus on ecosystems that are poorly understood, sensitive to global change and not well-represented models. Current research focuses on the Arctic and the Tropics,” Jensen said. The Natural Resources Defense Council reports that the Arctic will be the most heavily affected ecosystem as its food webs, sea ice and water levels will all drastically change as climate change increases. Students saw the benefits of research on ecosystems as it relates to climate change. “I think research on these types of places like the Arctic can really help people understand how climate change will impact everything,” Raj Patel, a sophomore biology major, said. Stony Brook has also contributed to research on climate change, mainly by being a partner of the New York Climate Exchange which is working to build a sustainable, carbon-neutral campus on Governors Island. The Environmental and Climate Sciences Department is not the only facility of BNL which has been working on ways to understand climate change. “With and within other departments at the laboratory, there is other climate relevant work aimed at bioenergy crops, renewable energy solutions, energy storage and power grid resiliency,” Jensen said. BNL and Stony Brook will continue to develop leading research for predicting and adapting to climate change.

AI in fascist agendas Continued from page 3 An example of this is when people get exposed to information that corresponds to their “interests, opinions, and beliefs while avoiding information that does not sympathize with or challenge their position.” Those who lack news literacy skills could receive this polarizing content that misrepresents other countries and cultures, which could lead to skewed representations of the world and assumptions based on what people only think they understand. The question then becomes: should there be a push to include more of these languages in AI for the sake of inclusion even if those people do not want the representation? This is still debated; although it could make for a diverse and accurate dataset, it may not be gathered in the most ethical way

due to people in certain countries not using or wanting to use this type of technology. With this in mind, if AI is an inevitable part of the technological future, there must be strict global guidelines and systems put into place to prevent AI tools from being used for authoritarian means. There are several routes that can be taken to implement this system. One such route includes preventing AI from being a viable solution for some of the problems that fascist leaders may come across, like an audience who is willing to listen to misleading data that gives credence to their rhetoric. This could be done through technology companies finding ways to avoid keeping their users in a political echo chamber, which could allow for radicalized and misinformed views.

This can include ensuring that if AI models are asked questions on political topics, they only provide factual and accurate information so that their answers do not facilitate more misinformation. Third-party audits that can ensure that technology companies are meeting such standards, which would allow for a less biased, more structural way for this to be executed. Another route would be to utilize government action in order to ensure that there are bounds within which technology companies must operate. This would be the most straightforward way to prevent the malpractice of AI because it would motivate companies to abide by ethical practices and would enforce notable consequences if their operations are not up to standard.

“Solutions must be on the policy level so that tech companies have incentives,” Schwartz said. Policymakers should start looking thoroughly into what guidelines need to be enacted to ensure that tech companies all follow the same code of ethics. But Schwartz believes that most people working on this technology are headed in the right direction. AI has the capability to be used in ways that benefit humanity, rather than damper people’s day-to-day usage online — many of which have likely not even been thought of yet. As this technology progresses, making sure that these devices are used for appropriate reasons should be a priority so they cannot be weaponized for the spread of misinformation or harmful ideas.

STEM EDITION 2023

How Stony Brook University’s math department calculated their way to the top By Derek Zang Stony Brook’s Department of Applied Mathematics and Statistics (AMS) is ranked among the best applied mathematics programs in the nation. According to USA Today’s 2015 ranking, the department was named the third best in the country, with only Brown University and Harvard University ranking higher. In 2020, Stony Brook’s AMS department was listed among the top five United States undergraduate programs in applied mathematics by College Factual as cited in USA Today. It ranked third again, this time behind the California Institute of Technology and Brown University, respectively. These rankings are based on a weighted consideration of factors, including graduate earnings, quality of faculty publications in the department and assessments from top academics — presidents, provosts and deans of admissions — of peer institutions. Similarly, according to the 2021 Academic Ranking of World Universities’ Global Ranking of Academic Subjects (GRAS), Stony Brook University was ranked 19th in Mathematics. The GRAS rankings use a range of objective academic indicators and third-party data to measure the performances of world universities in respective subjects, including publications in top journals, citation impacts, international collaborations and faculty awards. Substantiating these rankings with anecdotal support is relatively straightforward. Visit the respective News and Announcements sections of the Mathematics or Applied Mathematics and Statistics Department websites and search for the term “congratulations” to see the commendations of professors and students within the department. However, it is important to consider the extent to which these accolades are intrinsic catalysts for academic excellence, and whether

they permeate learning experiences of all Stony Brook students studying applied mathematics. There is an immense popularity of upper-division AMS courses among students from a span of varying, often non-tangential concentrations, as evidenced by the “Welcome to Fall 2023 AMS 361, Applied Calculus IV: Differential Equations” message I received from Professor Yuefan Deng on Brightspace earlier this semester. “We have an unusually diverse class: freshm[e]n to senior[s] majoring in MAT, AMS, PHY, ME, EE, CS, BME, Econ, Astronomy, Civil Eng, Biology, Business, Chem. Eng. [,] Music. (I checked the registration list up to #80 and likely more majors exist; already impressive!),” Deng wrote in the email. While Stony Brook math expectations differ among students, especially when factoring in a student’s high school preparation level and major requirements, most are required to take at least one semester of introductory calculus or statistics. The department’s composition indicates that the responsibility of teaching these courses is often entrusted to instructors rather than senior professors, as evidenced by the list of faculty members teaching different sections for fall 2023; MAT 122 (Overview of Calculus with Applications), MAT 125, 126 and 127 (Calculus A, B and C), MAT 131 (Calculus I) and AMS 151 (Applied Calculus I). This is a standard practice, but at the very least it introduces the possibility of a bijective lack between the exceptional reputation of Stony Brook’s AMS Department — fueled by its research excellence as evidenced by GRAS metrics — and the quality of the instruction that the overall student body is expected to receive. It is a sentiment that closely mirrors the more general allegation espoused since the 1990s by sociologists such as Jonathan R. Cole, the John Mitchell Mason Professor at

The Helaman Ferguson Sculptor known as the “Umbilic Torus” in front of the Mathematics building at Stony Brook University. In 2021, SBU was ranked 19th in Mathematics according to Academic Ranking of World Universities. BRITTNEY DIETZ/THE STATESMAN

Columbia University, that in balancing the tenure-track tightrope, the research focus from faculty has escalated at the expense of undergraduate teaching quality. Ultimately, such a perception comes with no relevant benefit, as mischaracterizing the situation merely overshadows the efforts being made to support students. On-campus resources such as the Math Learning Center

provide readily-available tutoring services on a drop-off basis, staffed primarily with graduate and postdoctoral students. While Stony Brook’s Mathematics and AMS Departments stand on the laurels of research excellence, it is crucial to look beyond the rankings from time-to-time and ensure that quality extends to the undergraduate learning experiences for all students.

threat of TikTok seriously. For example, Senator Rand Paul blocked legislation that would result in a nationwide TikTok ban, citing freedom of speech as his reasoning. However, banning TikTok does not necessarily constitute an attack on the First Amendment, as other social media platforms are not being banned. Additionally, current presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy — who has claimed to be tough on China — has backed down from being against TikTok and now supports it. Ramaswamy said he changed his mind to reap young Americans’ votes, which includes compromising and engaging with Generation Z on TikTok. As Ramaswamy has said in an interview with The Hill, “I have a radical idea for the Republican Party: We need to win elections. And part of how we win elections is reaching the next generation of young Americans where they are.”

No one who prefers to compromise our national security in order to further themselves politically is fit for public office. “We have already seen a ban on the use of TikTok from government devices and systems [in] the United States, many of its states and municipalities (including New York City) and several of its global allies including Australia, Canada, the EU and the U.K.,” Moreno said. “In response, ByteDance claims to be conducting an effort referred to as ‘Project Texas’ to house U.S. user data in domestic services managed by a U.S.-based team.” China is arguably the most powerful of America’s adversaries. As it is, China has developed alliances with other U.S. adversaries like the Taliban-controlled Afghanistan and Russia. If the U.S. bans TikTok, a message will be sent to the world that we will no longer turn a blind eye to China, or any of our other global competitors who intend to harm our way of life.

U.S. TikTok ban Continued from page 2

A graphic showing a phone screen canceling the TikTok logo with the American flag in the background. It is speculated that TikTok has been used to disseminate misinformation and share private user data with the Chinese government. ILLUSTRATED BY BRITTNEY DIETZ/THE STATESMAN

Staff Editor-in-Chief.................Viola Flowers

The soaring popularity of sci-fi in modern culture By Clare Gehlich

Due to renewed interest in cuttingedge technology, such as artificial Managing Editor.......Skylar Sena intelligence (AI) and increased Internet accessibility — which generates climate News Editor......................................................Sonya Gugliara change awareness — the desire for Opinions Editor...................................................Sara McGiff escapism has impacted the rise of the science fiction (sci-fi) genre. As a Sports Editor....................................................Mike Anderson result, we have seen an increased Arts & Culture Editor...........................................Jenna Zaza production of sci-fi television series Multimedia Editor...........................................Brittney Dietz and films. Revisiting the dystopian or postCopy Chief.............................................................Olivia Erndl apocalyptic side of the genre is a Asst. News Editor..........................................Mariam Guirgis frequent experience for many sci-fi fans. The genre has had a lasting Asst. News Editor................................................Sky Crabtree impact on popular culture, dating Asst. Sports Editor..........................................Kenny Spurrell back to the 19th century. Authors like Mary Shelley, the sci-fi Asst. Sports Editor...........................................Alex Streinger trailblazer who wrote “Frankenstein” Asst. Sports Editor......................................Anthony DiCocco in 1818, carved out this fascinating and Asst. Arts & Culture Editor............................Clare Gehlich enduring niche. “Frankenstein” is often considered one of the earliest sci-fi Asst. Multimedia Editor.........................Mackenzie Yaddaw novels and has since been adapted Asst. Copy Editor...............................................Sarah Aguiar into various forms, including the films Asst. Copy Editor.........................................Alyssa Pascocello “The Curse of Frankenstein” (1957) and “Frankenweenie” (2012), the National Theater’s production of “Frankenstein” Advertising Manager...............................Dimitrios Santiago (2011) and Marvel’s comic book version Website Manager..................................................Liam Cooke of Frankenstein, “Frankenstein’s Monster.” The character first appeared in a horror comic titled “Your Name Is Frankenstein,” featured in Menace #7 in 1953. Over the past decade, the explosion To contact the Editor-in-Chief and Managing of the sci-fi genre has become more pronounced since Christopher Nolan’s Editors about organizational comments, questions, “Interstellar” was released in 2014. A suggestions, corrections or photo permission, email possible cause might have been the depiction of AI robots in the film, editors@sbstatesman.com. which preceded an increased interest in dystopian, post-apocalyptic worlds. The Statesman is a student-run, student-written In 2023, two notable projects — HBO’s adaptation of the beloved video incorporated publication at Stony Brook University in New game series “The Last of Us” and the York. The paper was founded as The Sucolian in 1957 at dystopian film “The Creator” — came out. These projects used sci-fi as a Oyster Bay, the original site of Stony Brook medium to address current problems University. In 1975, The Statesman was incorporated in society. as a not-for-profit, student-run organization. Its The release of “The Creator” further emphasized the need for open editorial board, writers and multimedia staff are all student dialogue about AI. The film delves into

Managing Editor.......Lori Saxena

volunteers.

The Statesman and its editors have won several awards for student journalism and several past editors have gone on to enjoy distinguished careers in the field of journalism. Disclaimer: Views expressed in columns or in the Letters and Opinions section are those of the author and not necessarily those of The Statesman. For more Statesman content, visit us at sbstatesman.com and follow us on Twitter and Instagram @sbstatesman.

A graphic showing rising science fiction content (top to bottom), “The Creator,” The Last of Us,” “Interstellar” and “Westworld.” The desire for escapism has impacted the rise of the sci-fi genre in film and television. ILLUSTRATED BY JERRY WEINTRAUB/ THE STATESMAN

the world of AI and concerns about a prospective dystopian future. It invites viewers to consider the blurred lines between real and alternative timelines. Television series like “Westworld” contribute to how AI and robotics are portrayed in a fast-developing society, whereas “The Creator” delves into the dynamic relationships between the human mind and AI. “The Creator” also aims to challenge audience perceptions of what it means to be human in an increasingly technological world. The film offers a glimpse into a future where the relationship between creator and creation takes center stage. It prompts viewers to consider the impacts of our actions as humans. This idea somewhat mirrors the themes in works like Shelley’s “Frankenstein,” such as the moral implications of technological developments that can harm society. Further, the video game adaptation series “The Last of Us” has a more nuanced take on the sci-fi genre, similarly pushing the boundaries of imagination while navigating complex ethical dilemmas.

This show portrays a postapocalyptic world destroyed by a global pandemic triggered by Cordyceps, a mysterious fungal infection. The infection turns humans into zombie hosts with the only goal being to contaminate as many as possible. The series combines sci-fi, horror and dystopian elements through a unique and compelling narrative that parallels the COVID-19 pandemic. Upon its debut on Jan. 15, the pilot drew 4.7 million viewers in the United States, which was HBO’s second-largest debut in over a decade. Additionally, “The Last of Us” made history when it received 24 Primetime Emmy Award nominations, becoming the first liveaction video game adaptation to receive any major award consideration. These achievements have led film critics like Mark Delaney to say the series “feels like the beginning of a new era” for the genre. Overall, the sci-fi genre provides an ideal escape for many people. Through its ability to transport viewers to galaxies, post-apocalyptic universes and dystopian worlds, the genre breaks down the barriers of realism, resulting in limitless boundaries. Glyn Morgan, a researcher and professor of government and social studies at Harvard University, said in an Interface Focus article that the sci-fi genre serves as a type of escapism for viewers as they try to understand and anticipate what might come next in our futuristic, technologically advanced society. He said that the genre “[doesn’t just] predict [behaviors of influential individuals and how certain events have unfolded], it [also] anticipates the social structures which produce them.” The entirety of the sci-fi genre lets us envision different timelines and alternative futuristic components, with the ability to understand prominent issues related to public health, as seen with “The Creator.”

Brightspace for simplified learning

STEM EDITION 2023

Continued from page 4

The D2L logo. Stony Brook switched over from Blackboard to D2L Brightspace for courses in Spring 2023. D2L, CC BY-SA 4.0

all the tests, assignments, content and discussion[s], where you can just elaborate on it,” Wufeng Qin, a freshman majoring in health science, said. “It is less efficient and convenient that it does not rely on your Gmail account. You just have to reply with your NetID information.” Annup Chauhan, a freshman English major, shared a similar opinion on how the platform directly connects to Google accounts. “I found Brightspace to be more of a nuance than a cohesive academic tool. The UI [User Interface] is bland compared to more well-known sites such as Google Classroom,”

Chauhan said. “Which, with its direct connection to your Google account, allows a more straightforward work dynamic and is much easier to use.” As a seasoned Blackboard user, Stony Brook Professor Carol Hernandez also had plenty to say about Brightspace. “It is not like that I do not like or like Brightspace,” Hernandez said. “It is something that I have to use to teach my lectures. The State University of New York system forces all SUNYs to use Brightspace. Think of it like when your parents buy you a new car, and you do not know how to function it.”

Wenjing Yu, a sophomore studying accounting at Baruch College, uses Blackboard for her college coursework and is wellacquainted with its shortcomings. She has never used Brightspace. “I hate how Blackboard does not give out reminders on an assignment approaching the deadline,” Yu said. “It is annoying how I have to check the calendar every time to see if something is due that day.” However, I believe the transition has paid off. Compared to its competitors, its efficiency and flexibility produce less confusion when navigating the site.

Xuan Wen, a computer science freshman at Hunter College, also uses Blackboard for his classes. He expresses a similar opinion on the difficulties of Blackboard. “Their layout is problematic and straightforward, and it does not look beautiful. If I were using it for the first time, it would be hard to know where everything is,” Wen said. “Maybe this makes this website appear to have an academic atmosphere, but it is inconvenient. Perhaps this makes the website seem very intellectual, but it is unsuitable for me.” Despite the controversy, Brightspace was appointed SUNY’s main educational platform once the school system’s contract ended with Blackboard. T. Simeon Ananou, Vice President for the Division of Information Technology and Chief Information Officer for Stony Brook, stated why SUNY ended its contract with Blackboard by email. “Anthology, Blackboard Learn’s parent company, is ending support for the selfhosted platform on Dec. 21, 2022. SUNY conducted an RFP [Request For Proposal], and D2L’s Brightspace was chosen out of that process,” Ananou wrote.