the
magazine of the students of
the university of miami
december 2014
SUPERSIZE ME WHY WE’RE
#1
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WE KNOW HOW TO PARTY America’s DATING CULTURE . . . and why we can’t commit
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graduating seniors
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WHAT’S INSIDE
THE GUIDE
MAIN EVENT
5
Best All-American Food
28 Different Faces of America
8
Art Basel
30 The Party Culture
By Maria Hernandez By Lyssa Goldberg
10 A Different Music Scene By Shivani Aluru
11 West Coast v. East Coast By Jamila Wright
IN THE LOOP 13 The Allure of Reality TV By Kayla Lott
14 American Technology By Evan Forsell
By Kathryn Collins By Caitlan Rossi
34 From the Outside Looking In
5
By Yael Herman & Anshika Chhabra
36 Supersize Me By Erin Fischer
40 College Cadets By Megan McCrink
END NOTES
44 Favorite fast food?
19
15 Walk of Shamelessness By Lexi Williams
16 Football: America’s Obsession By Erin Doley
HEALTH & WELLNESS 18 19 20 21
Olympic Domination
18
By Jordan DeSantis & Sydney Kutowi
30
Wishful Shrinking By Shivani Aluru
America the Beautiful By Rori Kotch & Lexi Williams
Your Country on Drugs By Chelsea Harrington
22
FASHION 22 Into the Wild
By Allison Baer & Hollie Pollack
27 The Look
By Adam Tomashek
GET A DAILY DOSE OF YOUR FAVORITE MAGAZINE AT DISTRACTION MAGAZINE.COM
CULTURE
FASHION
MUSIC
TRAVEL
FOOD
’MURICA
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STUDENT LIFE
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Letter EDITOR
december 2014
from the
distractionmagazine.com WHO SHOULD THE NEXT PRESIDENT BE? Editor-in-Chief_Rori Kotch “Oprah.” Executive Editor_Lexi Williams Managing Editor_Yael Herman Co-Art Directors_Claudia Fernandes‐Hernandez & Katherine Lee -30Photo Editor_Melissa Mallin -30Assistant Art Directors_Taylor Hoff, Allie Pakrosnis, Sean Perez & Jamie Servidio Assistant Photo Editor_Emily Robbins Co-Copy Chiefs_Erin Fischer & Julie Harans The Guide Editor_Shivani Aluru “Randy Stano.” In The Loop Editor_Asmae Fahmy Health and Wellness Editor_Jordan DeSantis Fashion Editors_Adam Tomashek & Allison Baer Assistant Fashion Editor_Hollie Pollak The Main Event Editor_Yael Herman Public Relations Managers_Gabrielle Bardfield & Brandon Carusillo Assistant PR Manager_Iliana Blasdel Business Manager_Alexandra Hurtado -30Assistant Business Manager_Danielle Giovannitti Faculty Adviser_Randy Stano “Yeezus.”
DISTRACTIONMAGAZINE.COM
Online Editorial Coordinator_Megan McCrink Online Managing Editor_Juan Antonio Bisono Online Copy Chief_Maggie McMahon “Donna Shalala.” Web Master_Lauren Ruben Culture/Entertainment Blog Editor_Chidera Anugwom Food Blog Editor_Julie Harans Online Fashion Editor_Kelly Brody Photo Blog Editor_Melissa Mallin -30Student Life Blog Editor_Rachel Watkins Features Blog Editor_Taylor Duckett Online Photo Editor_Melissa Mallin -30- “Ellen DeGeneres.” Social Media Editor_Veronica Lopez ASSITING FACULTY Bruce Garrison, Valory Greenman, Sam Terilli & Tsitsi Wakhisi CONTRIBUTORS Brandon Carusillo, Photographer Lauren Goode, Model Anshika Chhabra, Writer Chelsea Harrington, Writer Kathryn Collins, Writer Maria Hernandez, Writer Erin Doley, Writer Sarah Hirth, Photographer Karli Evans, Photographer Carly Huffman, Photographer Evan Forsell, Writer Sydney Kutowy, Writer Shai Fox, Photographer Michelle Lock, Designer Sarbani Ghosh, Designer Kayla Lott, Writer Lyssa Goldberg, Writer Dylan Reich, Photographer
Danielle Reid, Writer Caitlan Rossi, Writer Katya Sarria, Designer Rami Sami, Model Marielle Stern, Model Sharry Tong, Designer Jamila Wright, Writer Michelle Zogby, Designer Victor Israelsson, Model
When it comes to contributors, we’re not picky. Whether you’ve found your niche in a bio book, you’re notorious for doing “nothing” at the comm or business school or you’re halfway into your college career and still wave that “undeclared major” flag, we want to hear what you have to say. Distraction is written for students, by students, and covers the full spectrum of student life here at The U. If you want to get involved or have any questions, e-mail our editor-in-chief, Rori Kotch, at r.kotch1@umiami.edu for an application to be on staff. The magazine is produced four times per year, twice a semester. Bellak Color printed 6,500 copies of the magazine on 8.5 x 11 inch, 60-pound coated text paper 4/4. The entire magazine is printed four-color and saddle stitch bound. Most text is nine-point Minion Pro with 1.8 points of leading set ragged with a combination of bold, medium and italic. All pages were designed using Adobe Creative Suite CC software InDesign with photographs and artwork handled in Photoshop and Illustrator. For additional information, please visit distractionmagazine.com. Questions and comments can be mailed to 1330 Miller Drive, Student Media Suite 200, Coral Gables, FL, 33146, dropped into SAC Student Media Suite Suite 200 or emailed to r.kotch1@umiami.edu. All articles, photographs and illustrations are copyrighted by the University of Miami. 2
America is awesome. We created fast food, and we rule the pop culture scene and we are pretty freaking diverse. America is not only a great place to live, but it is also a country with a rich history and a diverse background. Our country is made up of a melting pot of different faces and cultures. Read Kathryn Collins’ story about the different faces of America on page 28. I mean, people even risk their lives just to live here, so we must be doing something right. I guess people just want to be a part of all the awesomeness, ya know? For insight, Yael Herman and Anshika Chhabra asked 50 international students at UM about their idea of the American dream, and the results are pretty cool (page 34). Oh yeah, we also dominate the Olympics. Read Jordan DeSantis and Sydney Kutowy’s story on page 18. With all due respect, with greatness comes some not-so-greatness. Our society is fixated on a quick and convenient sort of thing. We want everything else to be fast and convenient, so it’s only natural that we want our food fast and convenient, too. This whole “I want it now” thing we do with our food has created a huge problem with our nation’s health. I’m no doctor, but have you seen those obesity rates lately? Not pretty. Anyway, read Erin Fischer’s story about “The Supersize Me Trend” on page 36. While our country has its flaws, I think it’s due time that we realize how great we are. Maybe what we all need is to sit down and brush up a little on our history. We started from nothing, beat the British and here we are, all grown up. Yeah, we had some growing pains, like when two sides of the country fought for what seems like forever or when we went into a huge financial crisis, but we’re past it. Now we’ve got bigger things to deal with. Personally, my mom is from Toronto, Canada and my dad is from New York, but his grandparents were from Russia. So I am a pretty good example of diversity, I guess. As cheesy as it sounds, I couldn’t imagine growing up anywhere else but America. Here at distraction, we’re also a diverse bunch, but we are all proud to be in a country as awesome as America and we think you should all be, too.
Rori Kotch Editor-in-Chief
DISTRACTION
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the
magazine of the students of
the university of miami
december 2014
SUPERSIZE ME
WE KNOW HOW TO PARTY
WHY WE’RE
#1
America’s DATING CULTURE
. . .and why we can’t commit
THE COVER
art direction_claudia fernandes-hernandez, rori kotch, katherine lee & michelle lock. photo_melissa mallin. What is more American than a juicy hamburger and french fries? We decided to use a version of the word America that is commonly spoken today to express extreme patriotism, “‘murica.” It took four hours to arrange and capture the perfect shots.
Behind the Scenes
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF RORI KOTCH USES A FRENCH FRY TO SMOOTH OUT THE TEXT MADE OF MUSTARD.
ART DIRECTOR CLAUDIA FERNANDES CREATES THE PERFECT LAYOUT.
ART DIRECTOR KATHERINE LEE CUTS THE NAMEPLATE OUT OF CHEESE.
COMMENTS TO DISTRACTION the
magazine of the students of
the university of miami
october 2014
“I want to make a checklist out of the Guide and go to all of those places.” — Joey McNeill, Senior
WE WANT IT ALL...
NOW. FIND YOUR
#FITSPIRATION
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8INSTAGRAMWORTHY DISHES
“The cover was amazing. I loved finding my friends on it.” — Karen Garzon, Senior
THE Do’s AND Dont’s
OF SOCIAL MEDIA
10/9/14 11:46 PM
“I really liked the ‘Halloweekend’
spread. It looks really cool, and it’s crazy how many calories are in candy. ” — Zach Silberberg, Freshman HAVE AN OPINION ABOUT THIS ISSUE? EMAIL IT TO R.KOTCH1@ UMIAMI.EDU
’MURICA
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THE GUIDE
BEST ALLAMERICAN FOOD words_maria herandez. photos_ karli evans, melissa mallin & dylan reich. design_katherine lee.
The American dream is so much more than hard work and upward mobility — it’s the search for the good life. People from around the world come to America searching not only for liberty, but also for the perfect hamburger with a milkshake on the side. From a bountiful breakfast all the way to sweet treats, here are the best American dishes and where to enjoy them in Miami.
Whip N’ Dip
1407 SUNSET DR, MIAMI, FL 33143
WHIP N’ DIP VANILLA-BASED BEETLEJUICE ICE CREAM WITH SPRINKLES
For those of us who have a sweet tooth 24/7, a cold, perfectly frozen milkshake can be found just a stone’s throw away from campus at Whip N’ Dip. If milkshakes aren’t your jam, they also have amazing ice cream sundaes with toppings galore. Customers can choose between thick, hard-packed ice cream or creamy soft serve in countless flavors. Whip N’ Dip always serves homemade ice cream, made in-store from locally sourced ingredients. If you’re feeling youthful, try one of the more playful flavors, but it’s hard to go wrong with any flavor they serve. ’MURICA
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FOOD
PINCHO FACTORY TOSTON BURGER WITH FRIES EGG’IN BURGER HOT DOG
BUTTERCREAM CUPCAKES STRAWBERRY VANILLA CUPCAKE
Do you like Beer? Check out BREWSKIS. 5835 Sunset Drive Miami, Fla. (305) 397-8125
CHILL-N NITROGEN ICE CREAM CAKE BATTER + RAINBOW SPRINKLES
Morgan’s Restaurant
Pincho Factory
28 NE 29TH ST, MIAMI, FL 33137
30 GIRALDA AVE, MIAMI, FL 33134
Starting your day with solid energy means getting long-lasting fuel, and the best way to fill the tank is with the chicken and waffles at Morgan’s Restaurant. This Southern comfort favorite may seem unorthodox, but the way the sweet and salty flavors mix in your mouth is a jackpot. You can get the traditional chicken and waffles or, if you prefer your food more portable, the chicken and waffle sandwich. Either will hit the spot.
Chill-N Ice Cream 8271 SW 124TH ST, MIAMI, FL 33156
Don’t be alarmed by the huge nitrogen machines when you first arrive at Chill-N; they’re what make this place special. Follow the directions and start customizing your frozen treat by picking the base, flavors and mix-ins. There’s a huge variety of toppings to add, like sprinkles, gummy bears, Nutella and granola. After combining all the different elements, the nitrogen freezes everything until it’s heaven in a cup, and the best part is, since you saw your frozen treat get made from start to finish, you know it’s a guaranteed fresh scoop. 6
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MORGAN’S RESTAURANT MORGAN’S WEDGE
Hot dogs are a cornerstone of American cuisine and are one of the most iconic foods this country enjoys. However, it’s easy for a traditional wiener to remind you of your elementary school lunch lady if a restaurant isn’t creative enough to dress up its food. Enter Pincho Factory, where the Latin American twist on American favorites makes for the most delightful hot dogs in Miami. You can even save yourself from the awkwardly sexual hot dog eating form – try them as kebabs instead!
Buttercream Cupcakes 1411 SUNSET DR, MIAMI, FL 33143
Tucked away near Sunset Place lies Buttercream Cupcakes. Its cupcakes are visual treats baked fresh daily and come in nearly a dozen flavors, so even the pickiest person can find a cupcake they like. The cupcakes are straight out of your sugar-fueled childhood dreams, with perfectly round tops and smooth icing perched on top. Crowd favorites include the Oreo, red velvet, chocolate and dulce de leche flavors.
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MORGAN’S RESTAURANT CHICKEN AND WAFFLES
’MURICA
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TO DO
THE BASICS DATE AND TIME DEC. 4 — 3-8 p.m. DEC. 5 & DEC. 6 — 12-8 p.m. DEC. 7 — 12-6 p.m. Walk-in tours available Thursday through Sunday at 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. LOCATION Miami Beach Convention Center 1901 Convention Center Drive Miami Beach, FL 33139 PRICES Day ticket: $45 Student day ticket: $30 Combined ticket for Art Basel and Design Miami: $55
words_lyssa goldberg. design_katherine lee.
In Miami, December is to art aficionados as March is to EDM fans. That’s because the largest collection of modern and contemporary art gathers under one roof starting Dec. 4, and with it come more than a dozen satellite fairs around Miami and Miami Beach. Now in its 13th year, Art Basel Miami Beach will take place from Dec. 4-7. Since it first started in 2002, the world-renowned international art festival has nearly doubled in size, and the 2014 edition will include 267 galleries from 31 countries across five continents. Here’s a rule of thumb for anyone in attendance: think of Art Basel as a pop-up museum. Look, but don’t touch; the art can cost hundreds of thousands, even millions of dollars.
Billed as a high-concept, modernist art fair, the Miami Project blends the chic cultured vibe of Art Basel with the cool and casual Midtown scene.
N MIDTOWOJECT R MIAMI PKETS TIC $25 One Datyi Day $50 ul VIP + M
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Now in its 25th year, Art Miami is the best place to check out some of the most important contemporary and modern art from around the world.
Free shuttle buses provide transportation from the Convention Center to different locations in Miami.
CAN’T MISS SURVEY Survey, Art Basel’s newest sector, will feature historical art projects highlighting a range of cultures, generations and artistic approaches. FILM Video art is presented not only inside the Convention Center, but also outdoors at SoundScape, where film is projected onto the New World Symphony building’s 7,000-square foot wall. PUBLIC Co-produced with the Bass Museum of Art, public artworks in the form of outdoor sculpture, site-specific installations and performance art are exhibited outdoors at Collins Park.
Both the CAS Gallery and the Lowe Art Museum will be open all through Art Basel. Check out the CAS for student art work and the Lowe for more curated collections.
LOW UM E AR TICKET MUSEU M FREE TS
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THE FACTS WHO OUT AND YOU’LL SEE ABOUT Art Basel is also held in Basel, Switzerland and Hong Kong, China.
The first edition of Art Basel Miami Beach was supposed to happen in 2001, but it was postponed due to the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. Art Basel Miami Beach has grown from featuring 160 galleries from 23 countries and hosting about 30,000 visitors in 2002 to including 267 galleries from 31 countries and attracting 75,000 visitors in 2013.* It covered 200,000 square feet of exhibition space in its first year and has grown to 500,000 square feet.
SEE & DO GET YOUR BASELGRAM You’ll have to leave your tripods and flash photography at home, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still use your iPhone to snap the most Instagramworthy Art Basel shot. Be ready to pose for the camera – the art is your backdrop. FRIDAY NIGHT MOVIE On Friday night of Art Basel, there will be a free art film screening at the Colony Theater on Lincoln Road, on a first-come, first-served basis to the general public. “Over the years, it’s been a very interesting and terrific film that isn’t shown anywhere else,” said Bob Goodman, a representative of Art Basel Miami Beach. SATELLITE FAIRS Art Basel may be the center of it all, but there will also be many other art fairs around Miami and Miami Beach happening at the same time. Some of these other exhibits even start before Basel and remain open after the festival’s end. This extends the art festivities from one weekend to almost an entire week.
THE MIAMI HIPSTER: Basel’s the only time he leaves Wynwood. THE INSTAGRAMMER: She lives for the double tap. THE PARTIER: The world’s biggest promoter of a champagne shower. THE FLIRT: His one-liners all come from the Banksy documentary trailer.
A GLIMPSE AT THE SECTORS GALLERIES Individual galleries present a range of work inside their booths. This year, festival-goers can expect 267 gallery exhibitors. NOVA A more intimate experience, Nova focuses on new works by artists from all generations. POSITIONS Several galleries are highlighted, and each displays a major art installation or project from one specific artist. EDITION This sector premiered last year and features leading publishers of prints and multiples who exhibit the results of collaborations with renowned artists. KABINETT As part of Kabinett, some of the exhibitors create special exhibitions within their booth, called “interventions.” MAGAZINES Art magazines from around the globe display their publications at magazine stands or booths, and editors are typically present.
DESIGN MIAMI is a unique satellite fair because it’s not focused on art – it highlights highly unusual pieces of furniture. This is where you’ll find the type of chair your rich uncle would have in his home but never let you sit on. The event is located across from the Miami Beach Convention Center, and Art Basel has partnered with Design Miami to offer a joint ticket for just $55. WWW.DESIGNMIAMI.COM SCOPE MIAMI is all about contemporary art. Taking over South Beach’s Ocean Drive for six days this winter, here you’ll find special programming from music to fashion and a special appearance from VH1, throwing it back with nostalgiainducing music. WWW.SCOPE-ART.COM FRIDGE ART FAIR near Calle Ocho is the place to check out if you’re tired of the over-Instagrammed Wynwood and South Beach art. This off-the-beatenpath event was founded last year by a young artist whose mission was to “think small” and make the art world less intimidating, more accessible and, most importantly, more affordable. WWW.FRIDGEARTFAIR.COM PULSE MIAMI blends both renowned and pioneering contemporary artists. In addition to the galleries and exhibitions, PULSE puts on original cultural programs, has large-scale installations and offers performances. WWW.PULSE-ART.COM NADA ART FAIR is put on by a nonprofit collective that aims to support the open flow of information and collaboration in art, making it the only major American art fair run by a nonprofit. As such, the event is free and open to the public. WWW.NEWARTDEALERS.ORG
* Art|Basel. www.artbasel.com MiamiBeach
’MURICA
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MUSIC
A different MUSIC SCENE words_ shivani aluru. photo_brandon carusillo, karli evans & melissa mallin. design_claudia fernandes.
Miami is a city that thrives on partying, and with that vibe comes plenty of EDM. This scene is great if you’re in the mood, but when you want to experience a concert that doesn’t rely on a laptop, it can seem hard to find. Distraction’s got the hookup. For live music, check out these places. GRAND CENTRAL 697 N MIAMI AVE, MIAMI, FL 33136
Tucked away in a nondescript corner of Downtown Miami is Grand Central, an old train station that’s found new life as a go-to concert venue. The place has no problem pulling big name acts like A$AP Rocky and of Montreal, but the intimate setting lends itself nicely to smaller, up-and-coming artists as well. Grand Central feels like a well-kept secret, and seeing a show here will remind you of the better parties you’ve attended. ADRIENNE ARSHT CENTER 1300 BISCAYNE BLVD., MIAMI, FL 33132
The grand dame of all concert halls, the Adrienne Arsht Center oozes class and culture from the light fixtures to the floor tiles. It’s got a vibe that caters to old souls who appreciate evenings at the orchestra and don’t mind taking in a musical or two. Don’t expect moshing and definitely dress to impress a more conservative set. HOY COMO AYER 2212 SW 8TH STREET, MIAMI, FL 33135
No survey of Miami’s live music scene would be complete without a nod to Latin music, and Hoy Como Ayer is one of the best representatives of the genre. The dim red lighting, cigarette smoke and mass of people dancing make it look like a scene straight out of a movie. Those who frequent the bar gush about Spam Allstars, who play there regularly. CHURCHILL’S PUB 5501 NE 2ND AVE., MIAMI, FL 33137
Churchill’s has been pulling local bands into its space since 1979 and is one of the few places in Miami that actually puts on a decent rock show. Performers tend to tread on the more hardcore side of rock, but there’s always someone new playing. That being said, if a band doesn’t do it for you one night, definitely try swinging by again for the next show. 10
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LAGNIAPPE HOUSE 3425 NE 2ND AVE., MIAMI, FL 33137
Walking into this place kind of feels like walking into your grandma’s house – if your grandma wears butter-soft vintage leather jackets and occasionally has a cigarette hanging out of her mouth. With nightly live music, Lagniappe is pretty much the only place in Miami that regularly features bluegrass and country music. Even though the stage is small, the sound is clear and blends with the conversation for one of the most unique atmospheres in the city. SWEAT RECORDS 5505 NE 2ND AVE., MIAMI, FL 33137
This Little Haiti landmark caters to those with a taste for slightly untraditional tunes. Think acoustic, experimental and local artists who have found a niche and major cult success both in and out of Miami. The crowd varies depending on the act that’s rolling through, but will usually remind you of the art kids you went to high school with who seemed to live and breathe nonchalance.
Upcoming Events Adrienne Arsht Center The Book of Mormon Dec. 1-14 $40 -$150
Grand Central Life and Death – Art Basel (21+) Dec. 4, 10 p.m. $50 Of Montreal Jan. 18, 8 p.m. $20 *At the time of publication, nothing was announced yet for Sweat Records, Churchill’s, Hoy Como Ayer or Lagniappe.
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VS.
words_jamila wright. illustration_claudia fernandes. design_claudia fernandes.
Since the feud between hiphop icons Biggie and Tupac, the debate over which coast creates the best music still exists. Here’s where the battle stands today. During the ‘90s, the West Coast’s rap home base was Los Angeles, and the big players beside Tupac were Dr. Dre, NWA and Snoop Dogg. On the opposite end of the country, East Coast rap was pulling from New York City’s boroughs for acts like Puff Daddy, Jay-Z and Nas. The rivalry between these two warring coasts resulted in the untimely deaths of Biggie Smalls and Tupac Shakur, two of hip-hop’s biggest icons, at the height of both their careers. 20 years later, tension still runs high between the two regions. Hip-hop and rap started the fight many years ago, but current artists aren’t ready to put this battle to bed. Today, rappers from both coasts represent a far more diverse range in sound compared to their ‘90s counterparts. Names like J. Cole, Wale, T.I., B.o.B. and Bobby Shmurda are taking over East Coast rap and upending the idea that good East Coast rappers come exclusively from New York. Southern artists are also making their mark on the East Coast hip-hop scene, mixing in sounds that are a little more melodious and easy to sing
along and party to, without sacrificing thought-provoking lyrics. Currently, West Coast hip-hop is having a bit of a renaissance with the sound evolving past its Compton roots. West Coast artists include Kendrick Lamar, Ab-Soul, G-Eazy, YG, Odd Future and Tyler the Creator. In 2013, Kendrick Lamar reignited the competitive fire under hip-hop artists across the world when he called out rappers he thought were worthy competitors in his “Control” verse. With that line, the individual competition was reawakened in hip-hop — an aspect of the genre that fans have always loved. Beyond the rivalry present in hip-hop, there seems to be a growing rift between pop stars from different sides of the country. The West Coast queen is Katy Perry, while Lady Gaga dominates East Coast pop. Perry is known for her emotional range, with her sunny hits and moving ballads becoming favorites in equal measure. Her music has consistently topped the charts ever since her 2008 smash hit, “I Kissed a Girl.” Lady Gaga, on the other hand, is untraditional for a pop star. Gaga calls her fans “Little Monsters,” dresses in ridiculously daring outfits and fights for LGBTQ rights. Her sound is distinctly edgier but she still manages to be inclusive and embrace the
diversity of her fans. In terms of sound, her music is more piano-based and is influenced by her classical and jazz training at NYU. When it comes to rock ‘n’ roll, the battle of East versus West is less about personal rivalry and more about differences in sound. The West Coast represents a breezier, more chill rock while the East Coast holds strong to foundations in punk and harder rock styles. The East Coast has produced some of the most recognizable names in rock over the last few decades, including Fall Out Boy, Aerosmith, The Ramones and Bon Jovi. The versatile styles of these groups appeal to a broad selection of audiences, each providing a slightly different take on East Coast rock. When thinking of the West Coast, bands like Nirvana, Blink 182, Guns N’ Roses and The Red Hot Chili Peppers come to mind. Though many of these bands aren’t making chart-topping hits like they used to, they live on through beloved t-shirts and as old favorites in our iTunes libraries. It’s hard to pit West Coast and East Coast rock stars against each other in the same way we do hip-hop artists because rock’s sounds thrived together as unique sectors of one united genre. Of course, when we divide genres into two regions, we often forget about the rest of the artists who dot the country and are working diligently on their own music. The real question in music shouldn’t be about which coast has better artists, but rather which artists create the best music. Music is about the story it tells and the way it makes fans feel, and if artists are doing that right, it shouldn’t matter which coast they represent. ’MURICA
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UBuzz is a blog about University of Miami’s campus culture, Hurricane athletics and college life as a whole. The Miami Hurricane contributes to the blog with posts that include quizzes, music playlists, lists and more. We’re also looking for contributing bloggers. If you have an idea for a funny listicle, email online@themiamihurricane.com.
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the
of
REALITY
TV WE LIVE FOR THE DRAMA.
Americans love their reality television. “American Idol,” “Keeping Up with the Kardashians,” “Teen Mom,” “My Strange Addiction” and “Real Housewives of [insert upper-class American city here]” are just a few of the favorites. The first season of Jersey Shore only had 1.4 million viewers, but by season four, viewership grew by nearly eight times to 8.8 million viewers. We’re now watching reality TV more than ever, and we do so unapologetically. We know it’s scripted, and we know it’s not always real. So why do we keep watching?
words_kayla lott. illustration_sarbani ghosh. design_jamie servidio.
WHO’S WATCHING? It’s pretty much assumed that most people who watch reality TV are either women or teens, and that belief is not wrong. According to oregonstate. edu, nearly 70 percent of people ages 18-29 regularly watch reality TV shows. Broadcastingcable. com stated that most broadcast television viewers are women from the ages of 18-49; and according to Forbes, of the top 20 shows in 2010, 15 of them were reality television shows watched by this group. When it comes to the most-watched reality TV shows, “Keeping Up with the Kardashians,” “Dance Moms” and “Chopped” are in the top 10. Surprisingly, the most popular show is “Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations,” with a rating of 8.7 out of 10. Some recognizable shows with lower ratings include “Cupcake Wars” with a rating of 6.6, “The X Factor” with a 6.7 and “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” with a 5.5.
Our love for reality television could be an outlet for our underlying love of drama... as long as it’s not our own. We live vicariously through the stars’ lavish, surreal and all too amusing lifestyles. We go shopping, dine at five-star restaurants and throw drinks at our enemies. We live their lives, but without actually having to suffer the consequences of fame and, often times, infamy. Senior Philisha Mesidor likes watching reality television because it serves as a “backstage pass” into people’s actual lives. “It gives you a close-up look into the real life – or as real as reality TV gets – of an actual person who’s not necessarily a celebrity,” she said. Other students are not so easily amused. “I think that they can’t help but watch reality television because the people on the shows are just so ridiculous,” said senior Millie Marcelin. Junior Matthew Penna feels similarly. “I don’t like reality TV because it’s not actually reality,” he said. According to Psychology Today, people love reality TV for many reasons, like its conversation-starting subjects, expediency and entertaining competitive elements. But what really keeps us coming back for more is our innate desire for status. Turkish psychologist Lemi Baruh claims that audiences enjoy reality television for three reasons: it allows a peek into people’s private
moments, shows alternative sides of stars and provides the public an inside look into situations that most people try to hide rather than broadcast all over national television. “Reality TV allows Americans to fantasize about gaining status through automatic fame,” Ohio State University psychology professor Steven Reiss wrote in Psychology Today. Penn State News expands on this perspective, stating that reality TV has changed the role of the audience. Unlike other TV programs where we are limited to being just spectators, reality television implies that we, too, can be stars. It’s no wonder that we can’t get enough of seeing completely absurd people close to our age being the star of the show and making buckets of cash. Hell, if Snooki can make a name for herself, why can’t we? Even if it is scripted, every once in a while reality TV gives us stars with whom we can actually identify. “You can relate to people,” said Mesidor. “I know I relate to people. When people wonder why so-and-so is doing something on a program, I can say that what they’re doing is human. That’s the beauty of reality TV; it shows people’s humanity.” Realiy TV has infiltrated the everyday life of a part of the American population. It’s okay, we all need a break sometimes. ’MURICA
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AMERICAN TECHNOLOGY words_evan forsell. design_katya sarria.
It’s no secret that technology is advancing at speeds we could never have anticipated. The question is, what comes next? As I watched the video from 2011 of supercomputer Watson trouncing two of the most successful contestants in the history of Jeopardy, the scary heights of technology’s potential hit me like a sack of typewriters thrown from the roof of Richter. Within two seconds of host Alex Trebek finishing his sentence, a screen featuring a sphere with electric green lights would utter a perfectly monotone, perfectly correct response. The two other contestants, lauded for their immense knowledge, stood beside the machine, nearly silent for hardly able to interject on more than a handful of occasions. At the end of the show, Trebek approached the contestants for his usual handshaking and congratulations. However, he skipped Watson and awkwardly bowed his head to the screen instead. The gesture encapsulated the amusing, uncomfortable irony felt by the 15 million Americans tuning in; our creation had somehow become our master. As much as the media and Hollywood love to harp on the possible rebellion of technology — in the form of senselessly destructive robots (“Terminator”), artificial intelligence (“Transcendence”) or its falling into the wrong hands (“Elysium”)— it is not necessarily something to be feared. Still, the seemingly human intelligence of Watson and the murderous capacity of unmanned drones rattle our feeling of mastery over our creations. Already, drones have killed a multitude of innocent civilians throughout the Middle East. Junior Wilford Harris said he’s fearful of where technology could go.“With nuclear technology, we can produce energy, but at the same time, it’s a technology that can be used to wipe out human life.” Freshman Noel Mengistie conveyed a more optimistic view of our future, despite the possible negative repercussions of future innovation. “I firmly believe it’s better to further knowledge and technology,” she said. “The alternative is a lot worse.” Both perspectives are valid; progress improves our standard of living while introducing unprecedented threats into an already uncertain world. Nevertheless, we strive 14
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to advance and innovate, to take the benefits of technology’s increasingly rapid march onward while trying not to lose ourselves in its wake. Technology has advanced significantly over the last several years and will continue to do so at an exponential rate. Cars now drive themselves and a computer can defeat a grandmaster in chess – and this is only the tip of the iceberg. The initial plunge into the sea of wonder and life-changing consequences was incited by the dawn of the computer. We know you’re probably already running to the registrar’s office to declare a computer science major. After all, it would seem that it’s the programming-savy people who ravenously rake in the cash we fork over for our iPhones. All this hype about electronics reveals why jobs at top tech companies are highly sought, and while a history major won’t necessarily hurt you, it won’t improve your job prospects in the seeming financial utopia of Silicon Valley. “It’s definitely a good idea for college students to major in something like [computer science]…to be on the cutting edge,” said freshman Kyle Miner. The popularity of introductory computer science courses here at UM speaks volumes to how aware our generation is of the bright future of the computer industry and its related fields. For many, however, debugging an error-ridden program is not their calling.
“WE’RE GOING TO BE LOSING A PART OF WHO WE ARE...” When you think about it, the extent to which our lives revolve around technology is a little concerning. Our laptops and tablets are vital sources of information, while our phones are virtual extensions of our hands. It’s an accomplishment to leave one’s phone in the dorms for more than an hour and it’s insanity to search the library catalog for a fact that Siri could resolve in a matter of seconds. “We’re going to be losing a part of who we are because we’re giving it all to technology,” Harris said.
Most of our lives have been digitalized, recorded, filtered and shared with the masses via social media. Perhaps we do lose part of our real identities by focusing so much on our virtual ones. Over the coming years, this duality will weigh on us more and more as we are increasingly linked to the cloud and beyond. Whether we embrace it or not, it’s impossible to deny that technology is our future. Despite being deeply woven into modern American society and improving our lives in ways we can hardly understand, we are learning more about its potential dangers every day, and some are frighteningly more hidden than others. It’s up to us to decide what to do with what we learn. As technology continues to evolve, we must evolve along with it. To accept the changes is only the first step; learning to adapt is the hard part. A college education can only do so much to equip us for the revolution that has already begun to profoundly shape the 21st century. It can earn us a ticket to the takeoff, but we’ll have to hold on for dear life.
HOW MUCH DO WE REALLY
IMPORT FROM
CHINA?
In any given store, if you check the tags at the bottom of the products, at least one thing you’re buying was probably “Made In China.” Many American companies have outsourced manufacturing processes to China. As a result, the U.S. imports a huge quantity of goods from China (especially electronics)... far more than we export. Why is this? Name a price for a service, and China will do it for much cheaper. The United States Census Bureau estimates that the U.S. imports a whopping $58,708,177 worth of cell phones and other household goods and $47,153,814 worth of computers.
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THE WALK OF SHAMELESSNESS
If you’ve ever endured a onenight stand, you’ve probably taken that dreadful walk of shame the next morning. Strolling back to the dorms in last night’s outfit isn’t always fun, and the one-time hookup isn’t always worth it.
Dating in America no longer requires a date. Getting to know someone between the sheets has become much more common than doing so over a candlelit dinner or even a cup of coffee. Nowhere on Earth will you find a more prominent presence of this “hookup culture” than on an American college campus. words_lexi williams. photo_carly huffman. design_rori kotch. You hear it all the time: “See that guy? I hooked up with him Thursday night…he hasn’t texted me back yet.” The casual hookup is the way most college students are engaging in sexual activity; it’s common, it’s easy and it requires no commitment once the deed is done. “It makes sense that hookup culture is
DATING CULTURES AROUND THE WORLD How does the dating culture in America differ from other countries? NEW DELHI, INDIA: “The hookup culture is not as intense as in the U.S., but hooking up outside a relationship is ‘okay.’ The main difference is that the gap between the traditional thinking of parents and the Western thinking of children is growing bigger.” —Tamanna Malhotra, junior
CARACAS, VENEZUELA: “We have a sort of formality. When you start going out with someone, you're already supposed to be exclusive. He has to formally ask you to be his girlfriend, or else you're not officially together… you’re just hanging out.” —Mandi Arocha, junior
BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA: “Hooking up is less common in Argentina. There are random hookups at clubs or parties, but not as much as here. The hookup usually comes after getting to know each other a little bit more.” —Donatella Vacca, junior
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so big,” said senior Brenna Miles. “We all need to hook up every once in a while, but we don’t want to be deterred from achieving the big goals every Generation Y kid has: getting a job.” Contrary to popular belief, the hookup is not a recent development. A study in the “Journal of Sex Research” compares survey results from 1988-1996 and 2004-2012. In both eight-year periods, students aged 18-25 years had about the same number of sexual partners and, overall, had sex equally as often. With that in mind, why all the fuss now?
“Seventy-one percent of students in the 2000s reported that they had sex with a friend.” Another section of the study did show a major difference that could be the reason this issue is so forefront in everyone’s mind now, the friends-with-benefits trend is on the rise. In the 2000s, 71 percent of students reported that they had sex with a friend, compared to the 56 percent of students from the 1980s and 1990s. The friends-with-benefits stage often gives way to the “non-relationship,” a torturous stage that falls somewhere between casual sex and the real thing. Maybe you’ve switched from late Friday night rendezvouses to Wednesday evening hangouts, or maybe you can steal a kiss without it always leading to more. Regardless of the signals, it’s clear that some real feelings have begun to develop. This is the point when you become obsessed with DTR: Defining The
Relationship. However, somewhere along the line, it became taboo to simply ask the other person if he or she is ready to get serious. In today’s dating culture, we act as nonchalantly as possible, even toward someone we really like, out of fear of rejection. That’s the biggest problem with American dating culture: we’ve been taught that showing emotion is wrong. Hookups, while fun and exciting, have become the easy way out when it comes to true intimacy. “I think there is a lot of outside pressure to act cool and ‘have fun’ in college,” said senior Matt Constantine. “This leads to college students feeling pressured to hook up with each other, even when it may not even be what they really want.” Having a relationship in college doesn’t mean missing out on fun; it just means certain kinds of fun are being had with only one other person. Plus, there’s the added bonus of knowing that someone’s always there for you, whether it’s to vent, cuddle, grab some food or… well, you know. “People have given up on the idea of actually having a relationship in college,” said junior Hayley*. “However, college kids have needs and we’d rather fulfill those needs without any connection than continue to be alone, even at the expense of being lonely.” In the end, it all comes down to knowing what you want and not being afraid to go for it. Whether it’s snuggling up to your one true love or getting down with the hottie at the bar, make sure you’re getting what you truly want out of the situation, and go for it. *Name has been changed to ensure privacy.
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A timeless aspect of American culture, the football game has evolved into one of our country’s undying obsessions.
T
he thunderous crowd, the booming voice of the loud speaker, the steady chant of the fight song; the atmosphere is buzzing with excitement and suspense. Millions of Americans pile into the stands every season clad in their team’s colors to enjoy one of the country’s most cherished pastimes. The start of football season marks America’s renewed fascination with the game. From NFL games to college football and even the Friday night lights of high school games, football attracts thousands, filling entire stadiums while fueling the love for the sport. Across the country, football stadiums rise to great heights and fill to maximum capacity with screaming fans. Some of the largest stadiums can hold over 100,000 people, creating massive powerhouses of energy and excitement. The University of Michigan stadium at Ann Arbor, for example, currently seats 109,901 fans, making it the biggest stadium in the country. “The stadium sets the entire mood for
“The stadium sets the entire mood for a game.” a game,” said senior David Pearl-Schwartz. “When you can feel the vibrations in your seat and sense the energy in the atmosphere, that’s the best way to watch football.” The stadium is the framework that unites fans in the shared goal of seeing their team achieve victory. The most popular football stadiums are not only known for the games played there, but also for the feeling that is created when the spotlights come on and the cheers begin to rise. Lambeau Field, home to the Green Bay
FOOTBALL: AMERICA’S OBSESSION words_erin doley. illustration_sarbani ghosh. design_sean perez. Packers, and Soldier Field, home to the Chicago Bears, are both known for their strong historic ambience and longstanding traditions. Two of the oldest stadiums in the NFL, Lambeau and Soldier have housed their fair share of historical names in football. Both fields exude nostalgia, creating an authentic and memorable game day experience. Lambeau stadium is best known for its nickname, “The Frozen Tundra,” spawned after the 1967 Ice Bowl between the Packers and the Dallas Cowboys, which is considered one of the most famous games in NFL history. Similarly, Soldier Field is famous for its display of patriotism and unmistakable white, Doric colums that were a part of the original stadium. Aside from running in our American blood, a love for the game often runs in families as well. “My dad brought me to my first Packers game at Lambeau when I was five. He used to go to games with his dad. It’s kind of a tradition in my family,” said Jake Sullen, a sophomore. The historical vibes of Lambeau and Soldier contrast with the modern, state-ofthe-art AT&T Stadium. Home of the Dallas Cowboys, this stadium is decked out with steel arches, a massive big screen TV and a retractable roof. Completed in 2009, AT&T Stadium revitalized the town of Arlington and brought new life to the team and its fans. Apparently the modern thing worked for them - the new stadium is most famous for hosting the 2011 Super Bowl between
the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Green Bay Packers just two years after opening. The atmosphere, structure and history of each football stadium impact the fans and the game in distinct ways. For college football, the stadium acts as a unifying force that brings together a student body. Many universities are best known for their legendary stadiums that bring fame and recognition to their school. “My favorite stadium is the University of Tennessee stadium,” said Cornelius Elder, cornerback for the University of Miami Hurricanes. “It fits thousands and it’s loud and filled with a sea of orange. You can’t hear the person beside you and everyone stays and cheers for the entire game, no matter what the score is.” The vibrant sea of color, the charged atmosphere, the echoes of the screaming fans – this is what transforms football from a just-forfun game into an American obsession.
IS SUN LIFE SUITABLE? Since 2008, the University of Miami Hurricanes have been playing in Sun Life Stadium, home of the NFL’s Miami Dolphins. Just over 20 miles from UM’s main campus, the drive to the stadium takes roughly 30 minutes, not including game day traffic. Though the field is massive and renowned, many UM students opt out of attending the games due to the stadium’s 16
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inconvenient location. “Sun Life is a fantastic stadium, just not for UM games. If it were a little bit closer I think more students would probably go,” said sophomore Justin Burnett. With many students not attending the games, the energy in the stands and overall school spirit is subsequently weakened. “I’m on the field, so I get to watch the fans
during the game. The stands basically clear out at half-time, killing the mood for the remainder of the game,” said Kaylee Brea, a dancer for the University of Miami Hurricanettes. But not all students are dissatisfied with the stadium. Many believe that the large size and prominence of Sun Life is exactly what the team needs to perform its very best.
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INTRODUCTION TO GAME DESIGN
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LYMPIC DOMINATION
words_ jordan desantis & sydney kutowy. photo_emily robbins. design_allie pakrosnis.
We’ve heard it all before– practice makes perfect. This all-too familiar mantra certainly holds true for U.S. athletes. The U.S. has been dominating the Olympics for multiple years now. According to Slate magazine, since the modern Olympics began, the U.S. has won 520 swimming medals — 342 more than its closest competitor, Australia —and 767 athletic medals, about four times as many as second place Great Britain. Many have attributed America’s monetary wealth to its domination in the games; with more money comes better athletic facilities and programs. America’s performance in swimming is the perfect example. Between having indoor and outdoor practice pools throughout the country, and varying competition levels starting in elementary school and extending all the way through college, swimming is an easily accessible sport for all Americans. In addition, Slate reported that U.S.A. Swimming, the group that oversees America’s Olympic swimmers, is well-organized and well-funded; it pays athletes $75,000 for each gold medal, plus an extra $50,000 for setting a new world record. America’s 18-time gold medalist swimmer Michael Phelps holds world records in 100 and 200 butterfly, 400 individual medley, 400 freestyle relay, 800 freestyle relay and 400 medley relay, netting Micheal Phelps $1,650,000 just from his Olympic wins. In women’s swimming, several Americans have set world records, but perhaps the most famous is Katie Ledecky, with her records in 400-meter freestyle, 800-meter freestyle and 1500-meter freestyle. Regardless of the nation’s wealth, junior Taylor Stutz believes that America’s success in the Olympic games is credited to our belief that we are one of the most powerful nations in the world. “Americans are unwavering in our dominant mentality,” he said. “I attribute that to our widespread success in the Olympics. We are making consistent and specific actions toward our goals and receiving what we have always believed to be our due as a result.” This American will to win has been applied to the Olympics and has helped America win a combined total of 2,681 medals. Wealth and mentality definitely play a part in a coun18
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HEALTH AND WELLNESS
try’s success in the Olympics, but is there more to the American will that creates a successful Olympic campaign? Junior David Chiu believes so. “America’s success in the Olympics is due to the country’s size,” he said. “Not only are we one of the most wealthy, we also have one of the largest talent pools in the world.” Behind China and India, America has the third-highest population in the world. With more and more people being born in the country, Americans have a higher probability of producing great athletes. This makes sense when comparing the combined totals again, because the country that is behind America is Russia, which ranks ninth overall in population size. However, this hypothesis of America’s success doesn’t help explain why China and India do not share equal success in the Olympics. Having just one of these traits is not enough to becoming a dominant compeitior in the Olympics; you need a combination of the three. Wealth, a positive mentality and population size all come together to create the fuel behind the American domination at the Olympics, and let’s be honest; we aren’t about to be dethroned anytime soon.
ATHLETES GONE BAD Whether it’s from the pressure of competing or the instant fame after a win, it’s not uncommon for modern athletes to take a turn for the worse.
ADRIAN PETERSON One of the most successful running backs in football, Peterson broke hearts as fantasy football players watched a top pick get kicked off the team for child abuse after spanking his son with a tree branch. Word is that he’s set his sights on the 2016 Olympics. We shall see.
MICHAEL PHELPS Michael Phelps has been deemed one of the world’s greatest swimmers. With 22 medals, he quickly became the face of U.S. swimming. Unfortunately, in November 2004, 19-year-old Phelps was charged with his first DUI. While he apologized, paid a fine, completed community service and was put on probation, Phelps continued to make bad decisions. He was charged with another DUI this October. Apparently liquid is all he knows.
AARON HERNANDEZ Former New England Patriots tight end was charged with murder and multiple gun charges. Although hard evidence was never found connecting Hernandez to the murder, handing over your cell phone in shattered pieces probably doesn’t make a good case for yourself. Sheer will is part of what helps America win medals at the Olympics. We have won the most medals in swimming since the Olympics began.
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FAMOUS
WISHFUL SHRINKING words_shivani aluru. photo_shai fox. design_katya sarria.
Few countries have dieting cultures that come even close to rivaling that of the United States. Dieting is a primarily American obsession that suits our nation’s identity quite well; after all, most diets are rooted in ambition, innovation and aspiration — principles on which our country was founded. True to American innovation, the first “diet” was invented at the dawn of the 20th century by Horace Fletcher, an American businessman and health food aficionado, who to this day is still widely considered the original diet guru. According to Fletcher, most of America’s physical problems, from bad breath to obesity, were due to not chewing their food enough. On Fletcher’s diet, one could reasonably eat anything as long as it was first chewed one hundred times. From 1895-1919, everyone and their mother drank the Fletcher Kool-aid, and Fletcherism became the first true fad diet to sweep the nation as people began pulverizing their food in wide-eyed belief. Fletcherism was eventually unseated by the now classic dieting principle of calorie counting, and this paved the way for familiar favorites like Weight Watchers and the South Beach Diet. Times have changed since Fletcher first introduced the concept of chewing your food so much that you probably just got bored and lost your appetite. Now people barely have time to sip a cold-pressed green juice, let alone sit and chew their food until their jaws are sore. The new American dream has less to do with white picket fences and more to do with looking hot and making enough money to not be a homeless drifter. This is an obviously shallow way to frame American society’s current mindset, but when one-third of all Americans are classified as obese and the “Standard American Diet” has become the prime example of how not to eat, emphasizing image as a
gateway to health almost becomes reasonable. The dark side of dieting is that it typically affects women more than men. If a girl says that she’s not envious of the Victoria’s Secret Angels’ bodies — give or take the baby giraffe-like legs — we’d have a pretty hard time buying it. Many young women in our generation have complicated relationships with food and their imperfect appearances. Despite most of us being acutely aware of the right way to stay fit, eating healthily and exercising moderately always seem more difficult and less interesting than cycling through the dozens of fad diets that have flooded the market. If this sounds all too familiar, don’t worry, you’re not alone; research shows that 45 million Americans diet each year and spend about $33 billion on weight loss products annually. Though a number of diets are doctor ordered, others can actually get in the way of leading a healthy lifestyle.
“...FAD DIETS WORK SHORT TERM AND LEAD TO REBOUND.” According to Dr. Leah Pickens, an internist based in Indianapolis, people get caught up in losing weight too quickly. “Instead of leading to permanent weight loss, fad diets work short term and lead to rebound, where weight lost too quickly is almost immediately gained back.” In fact, according to Wes Smith, a UM professor of nutrition, the fallout from crash dieting often needs to be remedied before attempting to lose weight in a more permanent manner. “We often see that people who frequently crash diet have a lower metabolism
AMERICAN DIETS
OF THE PAST
SOUTH BEACH DIET
Everyone aspires to have a SoBeready body and two weeks of strict dieting isn’t really a high price to pay. The lifetime of moderation that follows is the real challenge. The South Beach Diet actually means that you can eat sort of normally, but you limit your carb intake. Plus, the diet goes in phases so it’s easy to adjust each time.
ATKINS
If you ignore the fact that this diet ended up becoming every cardiologist’s nightmare, it’s kind of the perfect way to load up on cheese and meat while feeling like a health nut. The Atkins diet is basically a low-carb diet of high-protein foods.
THE BABY FOOD DIET
This diet helps you keep off the pounds you already shed by replacing meals and snacks with jars of baby food. However, if you think eating baby food is an appropriate way to lose weight, you may need a little more help than a nutritionist can provide.
and that they need to be put on a calorie surplus and eat more in order to bring them back up to a normal metabolic rate,” he said. As doctors continue to condemn crash diets and reinforce the basic plan of exercising and eating right, it becomes obvious that America needs to find a new, less dangerous hobby, like knitting or stamp collecting. Though it seems like fad diets will remain in the American conscious far into the future, research shows that the number of people on fad diets is slowly on the decline, hinting at a future when healthy eating may become the status quo over juice fasts and adults eating baby food. ’MURICA
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AMERICA THE
Beautiful words_rori kotch, danielle reid & lexi williams. photo_shai fox & sarah hirth. design_ rori kotch & katherine lee. model_rouyao li.
Everyone knows that Americans have set unrealistically high beauty standards for women, but where do these expectations originate and what impact do they make? So, going to clubs has become a task. I’m not trying to say I’m pretty or anything, but whatever. Not only does going to a club or bar entail picking out the perfect outfit, but it also requires looking stunningly perfect. All of these things become tiring after a while, but not as tiring as keeping up with what the American beauty standards are today, because, you know, they have already changed since the last time we checked. Sure, first impressions always impact how people are seen, but when a woman is rejected because she doesn’t look like an airbrushed, heavily-edited version of an already gorgeous model, something just isn’t right. “The first impression is 50 percent physical attraction, 50 percent what happens after that,” senior Alexander Gonzalez said. “I guess it all depends on the situation and what is going on.”
“A University of Nebraska study in 2008 showed that facial symmetry plays a huge role in attractiveness.” It all comes down to science. Humans are animals and we are programmed to be attracted to certain qualities. A University of Nebraska study in 2008 showed that facial symmetry plays a huge role in attractiveness, as does a .7 hip-to-waist ratio, according to a study by New Zealand anthropologist Barnaby Dixson. These natural human instincts are propagated by the American way of always wanting “more.” Over the years, editing programs like Photoshop have become so prevalent that companies that don’t use them are seen as revolutionary. In January 2014, media outlets exploded when American Eagle’s lingerie brand, Aerie, launched a new campaign 20
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Pressures from society, the need to always look perfect and advancements in plastic surgery have led to an increasing number of cosmetic surgeries. Rouyao Li re-createed surgery markers above.
to publish photos of their models without any retouching. The featured models were still very pretty and quite thin... So was this movement, while admirable, really all that groundbreaking? This is not the only area in which advances in technology have upped the ante when it comes to beauty expectations. As millions of dollars are poured into the research, creation and implementation of plastic surgery, it’s becoming more possible to be a “perfect 10.” Last year, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons reported a total of 15.1 million cosmetic procedures done in the United States. “I think it’s okay for some people, but others take it too far. Small procedures could be acceptable,” sophomore Hallie Schechter said. “People should be happy the way they are and if you feel you need plastic surgery to attain perfection, you may need to seek help.” Thankfully, however, everyone has his or her own personal opinion of beauty. “I have a type,” said junior Jason van Esso. “Ideally she is in shape, has blonde hair and blue eyes. Height doesn’t matter.” There’s nothing wrong with having a personal preference, but don’t forget the ageold saying, “Don’t judge a book by its cover.” Beautiful people may be fun to look at, but a good personality will always prevail in the long run. Let’s face it, even the most expensive boob job will eventually sag.
AMERICA’S three MOST POPULAR PLASTIC SURGERIES The American Society of Plastic Surgeons reported 1.6 million invasive cosmetic procedures by the end of last year.
#1
Breast Augmentation With 290,000 surgeries reported, breast augmentation remains the most commonly requested cosmetic surgery in America. This surgery has held this position since 2006.
#2 Nose Reconstruction
Despite the 220,000 nose reconstructive surgeries that were performed in 2013, the frequency of the operation is down almost 10 percent from the previous year.
#3 Eyelid Surgery Loose flesh around the upper eye and bags underneath are telltale signs of aging. In 2013, 216,000 people had eyelid surgery.
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YOUR COUNTRY ON DRUGS words_chelsea harrington. photo_melissa mallin. illustration_claudia fernandes. design_michelle zogby.
Can’t focus? There’s a pill for that. High blood pressure? There’s a pill for that. Restless at night? You guessed it – there’s a pill for that, too. In today’s world, it seems there’s a pill for just about everything. While medication can be helpful and is sometimes necessary, it is not our only option for improving our mental and physical health, and it’s frequently prescribed (and used) too carelessly. A study published in the British Medical Journal in 2013 concluded that, without looking at dietary change, exercise was statistically similar to medications dealing with stroke, diabetes, heart disease and heart failure. The effectiveness of exercise can be equal to, if not greater than, that of medication. Yet Lipitor, the cholesterol-lowering statin, was the top selling brand-name drug in the U.S., making $7.7 billion in sales in 2011, an increase from $7.3 billion in 2010. “When someone has stage one hypertension and high blood pressure, they
WHAT’S POPULAR TO POP?
The top five most prescribed prescription drugs in the U.S. 1. LIPITOR: Cholesterol 2. NEXIUM: Antacid 3. PLAVIX: Blood thinner 4. ABILIFY: Anti-psychotic 5. SEROQUEL: Antipsychotic *Source:WebMd
would require one medication,” said Dr. Wesley Smith, Department of Kinesiology undergraduate program director and director of the Nutrition Masters Program at UM. “However, exercise can acutely and chronically lower blood pressure, so if someone works out for even 20 minutes in the morning, their blood pressure can be lowered for approximately the whole work day afterward.”
“Exercise was statistically similar to medications dealing with stroke. . .” Smith doesn’t discourage medication, but does encourage running, weight loss and dietary changes to help lower blood pressure: “If you see your doctor again and the pressure is normal or it’s no longer necessary to take the medication, then that’s great and exercise really becomes that medicine.” Of course, sometimes medicine truly is necessary until a problem is brought under control. Chase Preston, a graduate student at UM with a B.S. in exercise physiology also thinks that medication is prescribed too readily. “There are things you can add or take out of your diet. Beets are high in nitrates, which can help with lowering blood pressure, or if someone has [high fat concentration in their blood] they can just limit animal products and add more vegetables to their diet.” Exercise certainly helps to deal with our physical health, but what about our mental health? Antidepressants such as Zoloft and Celexa were the most prescribed class of drugs in 2011 according to ACS Chemical Neuroscience. Antipsychotic drugs used to treat conditions such as bipolar and obsessivecompulsive disorders were ranked fifth. A study by Rhode Island Hospital and Brown University concluded that fewer than half the patients previously diagnosed with
bipolar disorder proved to actually have the disorder after a more thorough follow up diagnosis. Bipolar disorder is not the only illness diagnosed and treated with medication too frequently. Prescriptions for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder drugs jumped 17 percent from 2010 to 2011. According to the Psychiatric Times, the diagnosis of ADHD was present in only one percent of students and almost nonexistent for adolescents and adults before the 1970s. By 2007, it was up to almost eight percent. The names Adderall, Ritalin, Vyvanse and Concerta can be heard in daily conversation, but why? Molly,* a senior, says she has always been an A student. Her sister was tested for and diagnosed with ADHD, so they had Molly tested, too. “I had previously taken Adderall during midterms and finals; it really helped me focus,” she said. “I purposely performed poorly during the exam so that I could get the prescription and make studying for my classes easier.” It’s frightening that she was diagnosed with ADHD by a doctor and given Adderall simply because of one test. According to Preston, medication is not always the answer. “Doctors prescribe medication a little too quickly because it’s an immediate fix, but in the long run, they don’t necessarily fix the source of the problem,” he said. While medication is sometimes essential, if doctors focused on helping people find more natural ways of living healthier and happier lives, the amount of medications incorrectly prescribed could be drastically decreased. *Name has been changed to ensure privacy. Problems? Concerns? Contact Pier 21, The University of Miami’s center for drug and alcohol education and treatment. (305)-284-6120 ’MURICA
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photo_ melissa mallin & hollie pollack. photo assistant_claudia fernandes styling_allison baer & hollie pollak. design_katherine lee. typography_claudia fernandes. models_lauren goode, marielle stern, rami sami & victor israelsson
The first frontier of American fashion seems like it might just be denim, but you can do so much more with denim than just jeans with cowboy boots. Denim vests are in and fringe is everywhere, from handbags to jackets and boots.
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On Marielle: dress, Free People; heels, Free People; hat, Free People. On Victor: shirt, Ralph Lauren; jeans, Levi’s; cowboy hat, Sexton; belt, Trafalgar; bolo tie, stylist’s own. On Lauren: sweater, Free People; dress, Brandy Melville; necklace, Free People. On Rami: shirt, Ralph Lauren; jeans, Armani Exchange; belt and shoes, Johnston Murphy. ’MURICA
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On Marielle: dress, Free People; heels, Free People; hat, Free People. On Victor: shirt, Ralph Lauren; jeans, Levi’s; cowboy hat, Sexton; belt, Trafalgar; bolo tie, stylist’s own. On Marielle: sleeveless shirt, Splendid; maxi skirt, Free People.
On Lauren: shirt, Lucky Brand; shorts, J Brand; necklace, Free People, hat, Target. On Victor: shirt, Ralph Lauren; jeans, Levi’s; cowboy hat, Sexton. On Marielle: shirt, Forever 21; shorts, RVCA. On Rami: shirt, Armani Exchange; jeans, Armani Exchange; shoes, Aldo.
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On Rami: shirt, Ralph Lauren; jeans, Armani Exchange; belt and shoes, Johnston Murphy. On Lauren: jean vest, Brandy Melville; white dress, Black Sheep. moccasin boots, Minnetonka. ’MURICA
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On Lauren: sweater, Free People; dress, Brandy Melville; necklace, Free People. On Marielle: dress, Free People; heels, Free People; hat, Free People.
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words_adam tomashek. photos_karli evans. design_allie pakrosnis. model_emily soni.
Holiday season makeup gets a vampy upgrade this year with inspiration from the king of Christmas creepiness: Tim Burton. First things first: make sure to work in your moisturizer (Clinique’s Dramatically Different is perfect) to stop the frigid winter weather from wreaking havoc on your skin. This will also allow the makeup to sit flawlessly on your face. For added moisture, we swapped heavy liquid foundation for a lighter, multipurpose BB cream (we used Boscia’s BB Cream in Light). The “BB” stands for “beauty balm” and is basically a tinted moisturizer on steroids. Place a shimmery highlighter on the tops of the cheekbones to give skin a wintry glow (try Bare Minerals’ Flawless Radiance).
SKIN
The eyes are simple in this look, especially with Urban Decay’s Naked Basics palette. Place the shade WOS over the entire lid, then add shades from the Naked 2 palette through the crease to give definition to the overall eye. Add a simple, quick black flick to the outer part of the upper lash line for elongation (Kat Von D’s liquid liner is ideal). Finish with a swipe of mascara, the blacker the better (YSL’s Babydoll works perfectly for this).
EYES
The lips are the focal point of this look, so if you have the shakes from too much eggnog, have a friend help you out. Map out the lip area with OCC’s lip pencil in Lydia, a shade with a deep purple hue that’s sure to make you the center of attention. Work from the corner of the mouth upward to really plump up the lips (PSA: work in your pencil from the side, not straight on. This helps prevent unnatural looking lip shapes). Now the real fun begins. Take OCC’s lip tar in Black Dahlia and work it in on top of the pencil (warning: this product is highly pigmented, so don’t screw up!). One coat should do the trick to complete this holiday look.
LIPS
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D I F F E RENT F A CE S OF AME R I CA words_ katherine collins. photo_sarah hirth, emily robbins. design_sharry tong.
W
hen someone is described as having a certain “all-American” look, what comes to mind? “I guess your classic white quarterback-type or blonde girl,” said junior Reid Wilcox, a political science major. “Well, I think of a girl from [somewhere] like Ohio, with blonde hair and blue eyes,” said senior Noelle Mendez. “She likes horses, wears cowboy boots, is religious... basically the girl from that song ‘Free-Fallin’ by Tom Petty.” For generations, “all-American” implied blue eyes, blonde hair and Nordic features, meaning fair skin, tall and with Northern European origins. It became such an accepted ideal that many citizens of this country and the international community accept it as truth today. The great irony is that this stereotype is digested and spread by Americans, who, by their own estimation, actually don’t look quite “American” enough. This archetypal blonde cheerleader and her Ken doll quarterback mate are not emblematic of this country’s population. They are sons and daughters of the European immigrants who arrived in the U.S. in the first half of the 20th century. The past century has been one of progress for those marginalized by society, namely women, African Americans, Hispanics, Asians, gays and lesbians. Yet, it seems that pop culture has been slow to adapt to the changing racial makeup of the country and most people still think of America as the land of the WASP and the home of the football player. Lately, immigration patterns have pulled a fast one on American demographics, as over 50 percent of immigrants today hail from Latin Ameri-
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America, too, is for everyone, and by everyone. When we talk (or sing) of America’s beauty, we must realize that people from all GRADUATE backgrounds, ethnicities and religions helped UNDERGRADUATE to create that beauty. Native Americans shared this soil with European pilgrims. 49% Those first immigrants, along with our founding fathers, were British. Later, 3% they shared the country with French, 9% 12% Dutch and Irish immigrants. 46% 27% Bear in mind, large commercial enterprises like Coca-Cola are generally much more concerned White 16% with appealing to as many people as Hispanic / Latino possible and increasing profits than Asian / Pacific Islander making political statements. It can also Black be very hard for any person - let alone a busy 3% 8% college student - to grasp the extent or signif2 or more races icance of the rich cultural history of America. *Source: University of Miami Student Enrollment 2014 We get up, go to class, go to work, participate in our extracurriculars, study, spend time with ca. The most recent U.S. Census Bureau data peers, and hopefully get a good night’s sleep. showed a future that would’ve left Archie BunEssentially, we are formed by our routines and ker at a loss for words; a United States where daily experiences. But what does that mean for Caucasians may be a minority. Former Census a student at the U? Bureau director Thomas Mesenbourg told NBC The 2011 edition of the Princeton News last year that the U.S. was projected to Review’s ‘The Best 373 Colleges” declared become a majority-minority nation for the first University of Miami No. 1 in Race/Class Intertime in 2043. Comprising 37 percent of the action. According to the University of Miami’s population, minorities are expected to make website, almost half of the students are Hisup 57 percent in 2060. So in 2060, the country panic, Asian-American or African-American, will be 43 percent “white.” According to an exand “about one in eight UM students are from tensive study by the Pew Research Center, that outside the U.S.” The fast facts for 2014 student number was 85 percent just a century ago. enrollment revealed a fairly equal split between These changes occur gradually and genders (51 percent female, 49 percent male) may not even be perceivable in daily life, but and very similar racial percentages across unsometimes an occasional event rocks the dergraduate and graduate student population. status quo. The election of President Barack If you pick any student at random, Obama in 2008 was a watershed moment in there’s almost a 50 percent chance he or she our nation’s history. Just 48 years before he took will be white. One out of every four people the presidency, whites verbally and physicalyou pass will be Hispanic or Latino. If there ly attacked blacks who sat at the counters of are ten randomly selected students, one will be segregated restaurants. On a smaller scale, this black. year on Super Bowl Sunday, Coca-Cola aired a This university is, in terms of diversity, controversial commercial, “It’s Beautiful,” which better off than other institutions. Its student received almost as much media coverage as the actual game. The 60-second ad featured people of various ethnicities singing “America the MIAMI POPULATION Beautiful” in different languages, representing BREAKDOWN perhaps the most American of pastimes and the Asian 0.1% diversity of the population all at once. Some people were livid. Todd Starnes, a Fox News Radio host, tweeted, “So was Coca-Cola saying America is beautiful because 70% new immigrants don’t learn to speak English?” 4.2% Other Hispanic Former Congressman Allen West said in a 11.9% (of any Non-Hispanic blog post that the commercial showed “we are kind) White on the road to perdition,” and #BoycottCoke trended on Twitter. Katie Bayne, president of North America Brands for the Coca-Cola North America Group, quickly responded that the point of the commercial was “simply 72.6% 19.2% Black White showing that America is beautiful, and Coke is for everyone.” *Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2010 Census
UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI 2014 STUDENT ENROLLMENT
Additional reporting by Yael Herman s.
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body is undoubtedly more diverse than other campuses across the country, and it’s located in a city with a culturally rich makeup. The influence of Miami and its people cannot help but permeate the culture of the students at UM. Before leaving, many students become semi-fluent in Spanglish and will adopt distinct local habits (“pero like” and Cuban coffee, anyone?) As shocking as it may seem, this has no bearing on these people’s innate “American-ness.” “Someone introduced me to Cuban coffee when I moved down here and I was hooked,” said senior Alex Lasso. “I’m obsessed now. Cuban breakfast, pastelitos, tostada, cortadito... Love it all!” To limit ourselves to stereotypes, either redneck or Mayflower-hued blue blood, is to disregard the rich cultural opportunities that set the United States apart from other coun-
“Each citizen has the freedom to create his or her own identity, freedom from oppression and freedom to actively seek and seize a dream.” tries. Though we sometimes lose our paths and forget, this country was founded on the ideals of freedom. Every citizen has the freedom to create his or her own identity, freedom from oppression and freedom to actively seek and seize a dream. Unless you have deep Native American roots, you are able to call yourself American because you or your ancestors moved here, whether recently or long ago. The underlying question is one that strikes to the very core of our own individual identities: What do we as a people have in common? The face of America is one of optimism and relentless courage. It takes strength to uproot a life and create one in a whole different land, as have done immigrants in this land since before the Declaration of Independence. It takes strength to get up every day and provide for the people you love. We go to the polls and vote because we care about our country and want to see it improve as much as possible. Our campus is full of “American” faces. Each person has invested in an education, worked hard to get here and is full of dreams and plans for his or her life after they shake Shalala’s hand at graduation.
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words_ caitlan rossi. photo_melissa mallin, dylan reich. design_claudia fernandes.
Will Smith seemed to think that the ultimate party scene fit neatly in SoBe, but we ’Canes have a lot more ground to cover. You don’t need to be a rap star to have a good time in Miami. There is more to partying than showing up and getting a red Solo cup. We did some digging to find out more about our school’s party culture, and discovered some pretty cool things. Turn down that Hardwell song and read on to find out why we like partying so much, and how the U stacks up against other schools around the country.
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Celebrating in the 305 is a three-credit course and the workload is heavy in hangovers. But don’t turn down for a little headache; you’ll likely be offered free shades in the Breezeway when you’re stumbling to class the next day. And who needs to walk in a straight line when we’ve got a lakeside bar so close to the library? Do yourself a favor: save that extra lab for the spring, because you’ll want your fall weekends free for tailgate season. The first semester doesn’t last long, so get it while it’s hot — and trust us, it will be hot. But what’s 100 percent humidity when you can get a Champagne shower at every pickup truck in the East Lot? Sun Life Stadium is virtually the only place that can get thousands of college students to come together from all corners of campus as early as 7 a.m. on a Saturday. “It’s free and anyone can go to it – your guy friends, your girl friends…you don’t have to be affiliated with any one organization,” said Victoria Pecic, a senior majoring in industrial engineering. “And it’s all in one location.” Since we’re all there for the same reason (football, right?) the tailgate is rife with school spirit. Why does rallying around a team make tailgating different from other parties? “Camaraderie,” said Olivia Finnegan, a senior majoring in psychology. “It’s exciting, not so much about the hookup culture. It’s more about having fun.” Love of the game often beats a makeout session between buses. University of Miami students may be hot blooded, but they also bleed orange and green – at least until halftime. “There’s less of a mating call vibe [at
tailgates] than at parties…it’s just more laid back,” said Emily,* a double major in economics and neuroscience. Even during a season when the Hurricane winning record is more of a light shower, one thing is for sure: UM dominates the tailgate. “It’s all about showing up early and supporting your team…even when we suck,” said senior English major Alec Demitrus. If you’ve ever taken a walk outside the stadium before kickoff—or been on recently— you know that tailgating at the U is a tradition that smaller schools simply can’t front. “Day drinking: it’s a different type of
“How many times a year is it acceptable for you to be blackout drunk at 9:30 a.m.?” drinking,” said Garrett Ross, a senior Industrial Engineering major and avid tailgater. “How many times a year is it acceptable for you to be blackout drunk at 9:30 a.m.?” Picture this in the filter of your choice: a row of parked trucks, overflowing garbage cans full of cheap beer and the looming threat of nearby cops. Guys wearing cut-off tanks; girls with thick smudges of war paint on their cheeks. But wait, ’Canes, we’re suddenly not at Sun Life anymore. We’re at a house party off campus for a tailgate-themed party. Why wait seven days for the next home game when we
can simulate one in someone’s backyard? Here at this party, the rowdy, locker roomstyle bus songs are replaced by selections from a DJ booth set up in someone’s trunk. Nighttime brings a purple sky, and the temperature stays at a cool 82 degrees (though we swear there’s something about collective sweating that bonds us). The tailgate tradition isn’t exactly palpable in the single flickering Christmas light draped over a palm tree on the front lawn of whatever house we’re at, and the draw of day drinking is especially absent, but the message is clear: We don’t just go out in style, we go out in character. Students have a certain fascination for themed parties. In the 18th century, the masquerade was a place where people of all social strata could try on different roles with ease. I concede that no one was wearing a mask to the Great Fratsby Party, and a crude toga doesn’t exactly make you go incognito, but since college is one of the only acceptable times for an identity crisis, San Amaro Drive just may be the perfect place to experiment. “You can really transform yourself,” said Taylor Birnbaum, a senior majoring in political science. “It’s almost like what you do is lost in the night. You can really just do anything you want and it’s almost like you become the character.” The theme sets the tone for the entire evening, and it’s usually a wild one. “You can put on specific types of music; change the environment…it’s not just drinking,” said Ross. “A costume is a good conversation starter. When you go to a house party and people are wearing tin foil over their nipples… it breaks the ice on its own.”
Electronic Dance Music has become a huge part of today’s party culture. The Crystal Method performed to a soldout crowd at Mekka during the 2013 Winter Music Conference.
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Sometimes you just need to raise the roof. At this frat party, students used lights and music to make the frat house seem like a rave
Themed parties bring girls. In the past parties many fraternity brothers noticed that there were more girls if there was some sort of theme that they could dress to. 32
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Getting ready to go out can be an event all in itself, from swapping shirts to sending out mass texts to see who has the final accessory to complete a getup. This all generates hype, deserved or undeserved, for the final destination. “I almost have more fun getting ready to go out than I do when I’m actually out,” said Finnegan. “If a theme really speaks to you, it can be something to look forward to. You can get as into it as you want or put as little into it as you want,” said Birnbaum. “If it’s a Space Jam theme, you can get your jersey shipped from home…not that I’m speaking from personal experience.” When we think back on great nights, the memories—and the #latergrams—are tied to the themes that inspired them. “I think themed parties help people remember the party. The theme is iconic and people like being a part of something,” said Nikky Shah, a senior biology major. When a particular themed party turns into a night so epic that it becomes an annual fraternity event, we show up for round two with more friends, better costumes and take an extra shot for old times sake. “As for parties, they can be pretty awful. A good theme would definitely lure me in,” said Birnbaum. A themed party may also be the hosts’ way of marking their territory for turnouts. Competition for party-goers on a Friday night is cutthroat, and a costume complicates party hopping. If we start the night in camouflage and later walk into a room filled with Olympians, someone will probably call a party foul. We can’t camo our way out of that one unless all the hard alcohol at the party has already been consumed. In that case, keep the costume on because at that point, all bets are off anyway. Most of the time, it’s almost impossible to separate themed parties from a whole lot of skin. “We throw themed parties because girls like to dress slutty and just dress up in general and guys will do whatever it takes to get girls to go to the parties,” said Andrew,* a senior English major. While themes that call for the short, low-cut, flimsy and seethrough will offend and repel certain students, the soirees aren’t always a compromise. Monica,* a freshman and undeclared major, confessed her secret.“In daily life, I’m a pretty conservative, traditional girl,” she said. “The idea of putting on six-inch black pumps and a bandage skirt that I would never wear…it’s kind of invigorating and gives me confidence
in ways I don’t typically have.” Some students argue that getting dressed up for a themed party is just an excuse to act impulsively. “I think it’s the same with the Internet,” said Elise Loughran, a junior at Lewis and Clark College. “People think that if they change their appearance it will offer some sort of anonymity, but it’s a false sense of security.” Andrew agrees there’s no hiding your true identity. “Girls who dress slutty are usually slutty and vice versa,” he said simply. In the bar crawl of life, college is just a stop along the way. We may not have mortgages to worry about, but there is a distinct frustration in not yet having a sense of our total usefulness on campus or in the world. We’re just trying to capitalize on the college experience before we have to dress business casual every day of the week instead of rolling into class wearing the same shirt we wore to sleep. “We’re in that in-between stage of childhood and adulthood... so dressing up is still acceptable,
“There is a simple but excruciating pleasure in waiting for the bass to drop.” as long as it’s a party,” said Libby Jacobson, a senior political science and advertising major. Outside the college scene, we can’t deny the weight of nightclubs and electronic music in Miami; there is a simple but excruciating pleasure in waiting for the bass to drop. Going out in South Beach or Brickell is a little like going to a car show, even if you actually had to pool your money and share an Uber with your roommates to get there. We can count on a whole lot of bravado, and even more leg—but doesn’t a city with a skyline this swanky call for a similar flair when the sun goes down? “Back home you don’t have to dress up to go out. I feel like everyone has to dress to the nines here,” said Finnegan. “No one loves clubbing that much, but everyone loves getting dressed up and being looked at.” And we’re not drinking out of red Solo cups on Collins Ave. “I personally don’t see a gain from going to a place where a drink is 16 bucks,” said Demitrus. “Clubbing is mostly a social status sort of thing and you want to Instagram it just to show
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Music festivals have multiple stages and a variety of music, fans are bound to have the ultimate party experience. At Cosmic World fans were immersed in an interactive audio-visual experience with glowing cosmic colors and LED backlights.
people you were there.” Who wouldn’t want to Instagram the hell out of your escapades when we, college kids, share a playground with celebrities and socialites? Since PK3s aren’t everyone’s cup of tea, is it possible to enjoy any party scene in Miami sober? While people like risk managers in Greek life may not be the life of the party, they definitely have a unique perspective on the night—and a queue of stories longer than the bus line to Shalala’s picnic. “It can be hard being the only sober one at a party, but my biggest concern is usually that I don’t want to become everyone’s babysitter,” said Sara,* a junior majoring in business management. “It sounds kind of rude, but I just don’t want to be taken advantage of by people I barely know.” Rude? Most of us wouldn’t do that type of dirty work for free three-day passes to Ultra. There may be a million things to do on campus and in the city that don’t require a pregame… but we’ll save that for another issue. Based on what students at other schools do to loosen up, it’s pretty clear that Miami just has more to offer, and with much better quality. Kristina DiIorio from Loyola Maryland says, “[House parties] would keep things new and exciting instead of going to the same eight bars every time we go out.” Marie Planell from Georgetown wishes the party scene in D.C. could be more diverse. “It’s pretty much just parties at sports houses
“Clubbing is mostly a social status sort of thing you want to Instagram just to show people that you were there.” since we don’t have frats and the couple of bars everyone goes to, so it gets fairly boring. People pretty much stay in the Georgetown bubble and don’t go downtown where there are actual clubs and cool bars, so that’s kind of lame,” she said. The party scene in other cities, even
overseas, is thirsty for more liveliness compared to the nightlife in Miami. Mary Petrucci, a student from the American University of Rome, said that the party scene abroad is uncomplicated but equally uneventful. “The culture here doesn’t really allow for anything different, like costume parties or frat parties. They don’t have those here,” she said. In college, most of our identities still feel pretty ambiguous. Our minds are hyperactive and we often struggle to turn off our inner editors. As fun as it is to let off steam, partying doesn’t always clarify things. A night out can feel hazier than move-in day under the August sun and make finding our friends in a tiny living room often seems like trying to cross U.S.-1 at rush hour. Despite this, a party is a place where we can be direct. Talking to people—especially when there’s jungle juice involved—is like getting to know them in dog years. By the end of the night, heels are draped over our shoulders, bowties are lost somewhere behind the bar and judgment and hesitation are drowning in Lake Osceola. It’s like taking the Drunk Bus to the Grove: we may not be entirely sure of what’s happening around us, but wherever we’re going, we know that we’re not going there alone. We have the rest of our lives to be formal and mature, but this may be the last time we can dress entirely in duct tape and still hold onto not only our dignity, but also our swagger. When asked if there’s anything about other schools’ party cultures that The U is missing, Victoria Pecic responded with “Well, their ice luges don’t melt.” If that’s the extent of our inadequacy, we have it all.
HOW TO PARTY LIKE A champ
1.
Wear something you wouldn’t mind getting beer on.
2.
Go out and come home in a group. We’re not your mother, but Distraction has a right to worry.
3.
Bring Band-Aids. You just might save someone’s night.
4.
We know it sounds crazy, but ladies, stuff some toilet paper in your purse before you go out. You’ll thank us later.
5. Don’t forget that fraternity houses
have their own meal plans…and you may be able to score a couple of homemade buns in the kitchen.
6.
How to cure your hangover: chug… water this time. Or give PediaLyte a try. Not the tastiest thing you’ll ever drink, but you’d be amazed what something designed to hydrate a baby can do for you after a long Grove Thursday.
7. Take Vitamin B. 8. Greasy food doesn’t hurt (this is where No-Yes Fries come in).
9. “
You’re in my (fill in the blank) class!” is a great opener…even if it’s not true.
*Name has been changed to ensure privacy.
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FROM THE outside LOOKING
in
words_ yael herman & anshika chhabra. photo_melissa mallin, brandon carusillo. design_claudia fernandes.
“To come to America and graduate college and make a great income by working at a well paid job and be financially stable for the rest of my life”Andrea Faria, Brazil.
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Distraction asked international students around campus what they think of the “American Dream” and got some interesting responses. Some think it’s gone; others think it's a Hollywood idea that we’ve grown to believe. One student even said it’s a way for parents to make their kids work hard in school. Other students think it’s becoming harder and harder to achieve because of tough
immigration laws. Regardless of personal opinions, the majority of students interviewed believe in the concept of the “American Dream.” They believe it’s possible, and they believe America is the country with a structure in place that can make dreams happen. As Woody Guthrie said, “This land is your land, this land is my land… This land was made for you and me.”
“The American Dream means freedom of expression and opportunity because I come from a country where there’s not so much opportunity, especially in the arts.” - Juan Sebastian, Colombia.
“I never really got the whole idea of the American dream; I just always saw it as an internal tool to feel proud”Sarah Hirth, Germany.
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What do you think of the
What’s UM’s demographic breakdown?*
American Dream?
52.23% It exists
19.40% Doesn’t exist
As of 2014: New Freshmen From the rest of the U.S. International students From Florida Total Undergraduates
13.43%
I have mixed feelings about it
Countries Interviewed: Venezuela China Turkey Saudi Arabia Kuwait Singapore Colombia Dominican Republic Italy Spain Guatemala Denmark Cayman Islands Russia Ecuador Mexico Argentina Brazil Israel Australia Libya Cuba Peru Romania
14.92% I don’t know what it is
International students From Florida From the rest of U.S.
The top ten countries represented at UM (as of 2009):**
A word to define the American Dream? Would you go back to your country when you graduate?
*Source: University of Miami, “Student Enrollment, Fall 2014” www.miami.edu/index.php/about_us/fast_facts/student_enrollment_--_fall_2014 **Source: Morris, Ruth. “World Class.” Miami: University of Miami Magazine 1 Jan. 2010. Print. ’MURICA
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words_erin fischer. photo_melissa mallin. design_michelle lock.
It’s time to face the truth about our beloved Land of the Free: we’re getting fat. For children, teens and adults alike, food has transformed from a form of sustenance to an all-encompassing obsession that we can’t seem to shake. Some say it’s our need for instant gratification; others say it’s our inability to only take what we need. No matter what caused our eating habits, we can’t deny that it’s time for a change. With a few suggestions from Distraction, you can be on your way to a healthier lifestyle in no time... you just have to decide if it’s worth it.
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Supersize me doesn’t just refer to french fries. Indulging on fast food can lead to numerous health problems such as obesity, high cholesterol and type 2 Diabetes.
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e’ve all been there: you’re at your favorite restaurant, or you flew home for the weekend just to enjoy your mom’s home cooking you’ve been craving since August, and all you can think is, “How do I stop?” This is the age-old question that’s becoming extremely important in America today – how much is too much? In a country where bigger is usually better, size matters more than ever. It’s no secret that Americans have a reputation for going to the extreme. At the University of Miami, one swipe at the dining hall means as many plates of chicken tenders, stir fry and chocolate chip cookies you can snag, and no one’s there to stop you. Let’s not forget all the random free food events on campus, like the coffee and bagels at the Greek Study Break in October. Even worse is when those oh-sotempting sorority philanthropies dangle baked goods in your face as you try to get through the Breezeway without experiencing sensory overload or feel shamed for not supporting “the kids.” We can try to avoid it, but there’s temptation everywhere, and it’s delicious. You might be thinking, “It’s college, I’ll be okay,” or, “But I work out! Doesn’t that count for something?” Sure, exercise is great, but what good does that do if every Friday and Saturday night you end up buying $25 worth of Taco Bell dollar menu items? The ease with which college students can access cheap, delicious and unhealthy food at almost any hour is a huge part of the problem. Your college metabolism is eventually going to
burn up, and your body won’t soon forget that Beefy Frito Burrito you had last night. If you’re still not convinced, according to Philip B. Sparling in his article Preventing Chronic Disease, 30 percent of college students are obese or overweight (at UM, that’s about 3,300 undergraduates) and college students are increasingly at risk of developing obesity related illnesses such as type 2 diabetes or hypertension. Taco Bell binges and “I’m too tired to work out” speeches aside, consider genetics – it’s more than just what you put inside your body, it’s what might already be there. Don’t get me wrong; this isn’t just about college kids. Americans of all shapes, sizes and backgrounds struggle with the problem of knowing their limits when it comes to food. Adam Richman, food aficionado and host of Travel Channel’s popular television show “Man v. Food,” traveled the country to take on completely absurd and usually nauseating eating challenges. Among them was an 11-pound pizza as part of a “Carnivore Challenge” and a 24-ounce malt milkshake in half an hour. We’re not sure how entertaining it is to watch a big sweaty man eat between five and 10 pounds of assorted meat, grease and whatever else the restaurant owner is trying to get rid of, but apparently it’s catching on. People from all corners of the country are flocking to repeat his conquests or take on the ones that were too much for Man himself. There was even a spin-off of the original show, called “Man v. Food Nation,” in which Adam had people take the challenges on his behalf as he cheered them on from a comfortable, calorie-free distance.
KNOW YOUR nutrition We all know that fast food isn’t the healthiest option, but a lot of us probably have no idea how many calories we’re actually eating. A 20-year-old man in good health should be taking in between 2,400 and 3,000 calories, while women should be consuming between 1,800 and 2,400, all depending on activity level and genetics. Here’s the breakdown on some popular fast food items:
Big Mac : 540 calories, 29 grams of fat, 1040 mg of sodium. Whopper : 670 calories, 40 grams of fat, 980 mg of sodium. Baconator : 660 calories, 40 grams of fat, 1440 mg of sodium. Beefy 5-Layer Burrito : 550 calories, 22 grams of fat, 1270 mg of sodium. K FC Famous Bowl : 680 calories, 31 grams of fat, 2130 mg of sodium. These are some pretty frightening stats, and pairing them with a side of fries and a drink could add up to another 600 calories on top of that. Think about the actual size of a Big Mac, which never looks as big and filling as it does in the commercials. Is it really worth almost a third of your recommended calorie intake for the day? ’MURICA
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DON’T TOUCH THAT 30-cent TACO So the question remains: Where do we draw the line? Are we too far gone and in too deep to pull ourselves out of the “supersize me” trend? Thankfully, Distraction is here with a few suggestions: Save the Chicken Fries for the late night runs with your crew after you go out. We know they’re back (finally) and everyone’s excited, but there’s really no need to eat Chicken Fries at 2 p.m. on a Tuesday afternoon.
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If you’re going to go through a drive-thru, keep it simple. Don’t order six things just because it’s the same price as two things, and don’t mindlessly reply “Ah, why not?” when asked if you’d like to add fries, a shake and three hot fudge sundaes for just an extra 37 cents.
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Consider the fact that if a food item costs 37 cents, it costs even less than that to produce. Mindfulness is key when it comes to fast food – do you actually know what you’re eating?
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If eating enough calories to feed all of Hecht Residential College for a week is so much fun, why did Adam stop? As “Man v. Food” progressed, viewers noticed Adam’s cargo jacket getting a little bit tighter and his breathing becoming increasingly labored as he shoveled food into his mouth at slower and slower speeds. According to an article published in the Daily Mail in September 2013, all his eating challenges caught up to him pretty quickly and he subsequently pulled the plug on his own hit show to get his health back in order. Passing the torch to the residents of whatever Podunk town he ended up in that week seemed to work out pretty well for him, as he shed over 60 pounds – and a few health concerns – in the process. According to the Daily Mail, his burger-burrito-barbeque belly brought his sex life to a screeching halt. If that’s not incentive to start taking care of yourself, we don’t know what is. Now, we understand that you’re not all taking on 10-pound food challenges every weekend, and we’re not saying that your love life will be irreparable if you go out for a Wendy’s run after the Grove this Thursday. The point is that it’s easy to get caught up in the thrill of delicious, accessible, supersized foods and not realize it before it takes serious work to get back on track. Sitting around with friends and they want to order a pizza? Of course you’ll pitch in and have a slice (or three). Roommates going out for drinks and bingo on Wednesday night? Why not? I’d love to share six plates of endless appetizers with you. It’s all too easy to get sucked into calories that none of us really need, and if you’re pairing it with alcohol, forget it. While food and drinks may be the classic go-to for social gatherings, it doesn’t mean that you have to partake in order to fully enjoy yourself. And let’s not forget sporting events. Nicole Katz, a sophomore education major at UM, said she never goes to the baseball games without getting a milkshake. “It’s a staple,” she said. And don’t get us started on those personal pizzas at Sun Life Stadium. As college students, we all know the struggle of being on a budget, especially for those of us paying the bills while trying to avoid a strictly ramen and pasta diet. While getting as much food for as cheap as possible is a great concept, is it really worth the potential health detriments that the media keep shoving down our? And is it actually as cheap as you think? The answer might surprise you. A 10-piece Chicken McNugget meal with fries and a drink from McDonald’s costs around seven bucks. For the same price at University Chicken Chop (also across the street from campus), you can get a huge meal of grilled chicken, rice and vegetables that might even leave you with a helping of leftovers, making it two meals for less than four dollars each, instead of a seven dollar box full of “chicken.”
GOOD FOOD minus the guilt: How can we avoid these major dents in our nutrition intake for the day? Here are some better options for when you can’t avoid the drive-thru. McChicken: 360 calories, 16 grams of fat, 830 mg of sodium 6-piece Nuggets: 170 calories, 18 grams of fat, 520 mg of sodium Gordita Steak Supreme: 280 calories, 11 grams of fat, 550 mg of sodium
“I like to know what I am eating and where it comes from... Do we really know what is in our McDonald’s burger or in the meat they serve at Taco Bell?” said sophomore Hannah Walpole. If you really want to know what’s in those deep-fried bites, check out the 2004 documentary “Supersize Me” by Morgan Spurlock (you won’t have to look too far... it’s on Hulu) for a less than enticing description of the hell those chickens go through before they make it to your local McDonald’s. In this eye-opening documentary, Spurlock takes on the challenge of eating only McDonald’s for a full month, and, well, we’ll leave you to see how that goes. Spurlock interviews a French woman visiting New York who tells him that the size small soda sold in the U.S. is actually a size large in France and that she can’t even finish a full one of those. Americans have become so blind to portion size that we not only can’t imagine a world without 24/7 access to a 64-ounce Pepsi, but we also don’t really see how this is a problem in the first place. In fact, we often don’t even think to save some of these insane portions for later. Put the soda in the fridge and drink it tomorrow.; ask for a to-go box at dinner and take leftovers to work for lunch. Nobody needs to drink a liter of soda and a meal fit for two all at once just because it’s given to them. The worst part about the supersize option of fast food? The main reason for it is because a regular-sized portion won’t fill up the average Joe. It’s not because we’re so hungry, rather the chemicals trigger cravings for the nutrients your body desperately needs. When it comes to fast food, the only way to keep your stomach from growling 20 minutes later is to eat twice as much so your body mistakes its bloating for fullness. Healthy, right?
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Just because you can get a large fry with the change in your cup holder, doesn’t mean you have to. Mindfulness is key when going through the drive-thru.
’MURICA
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words_megan mccrink. photo_sarah hirth & emily robbins. design_taylor hoff.
Juggling both roles of cadet and student, members of UM’s Reserve Officer’s Training Corps. train to become future military officers for service upon graduation. These three students gained notability in the ROTC community, mentored other students and became respectable members of their company.
Following in the footsteps of his father, former member of ROTC at the University of Miami, senior Robert Formica now serves as the Commander to the University of Miami Company for Army ROTC. As the Cadet Captain, the highest-ranking cadet at UM, Formica performs his job behind the scenes. He meets with administrators at the university, plans commissioning ceremonies and ensures the ROTC name is known across campus. Formica also teaches younger cadets the ins and outs of ROTC, encouraging them to take leadership positions within the company. “It’s a rewarding position to be in, sharing the knowledge,” Formica said. “I’ve always had a passion for teaching.” According to Formica, ROTC focuses on Basic Officer Leader Development (BOLD) Transformation, through which the program emphasizes the importance of academics rather than squad-based tactics.
“They want their future leaders to be up to date on all new things like policies and doctrine,” Formica said. “It’s largely tactics, but we don’t necessarily implement tactics, it’s just to get us thinking. We’re looking for people who can think and make a decision and stick to it.” Formica first joined Army ROTC at Arizona State University. There, he had to compete for a scholarship and a contract with ROTC in order to fully join the program due to limited spots. “Before I got my scholarship, I was dealing with ‘Am I still gonna be here?’ or ‘Am I still gonna make the cut?’” Formica said. At the end of his freshman year, though, he received a scholarship. “I always remember that being a very stressful time – you push yourself,” Formica said. “These are the days I remember, taking it to the next level, and I’m a very competitive individual and I wanted to be the best and I wanted the spot.” With the scholarship, Formica committed eight years to the U.S. Army, with five active years and three years in the reserves. Since first joining ROTC, Formica has never missed a day of personal training.
“I wanted to serve my country and now I’m following my dream,” Formica said. As a senior, Formica will learn what branch he is placed in and whether he is going active or reserve in mid-November. In the spring, before graduation, Formica will learn what station he will be located to. According to Formica, he has developed invaluable skills, both physical and not, in ROTC. “When I say this, I think I speak for 90 percent of cadets,” Formica said. “Time management is crucial to completing any objective, but you’ve learned to budget your time because you don’t get much time.” Formica has also built his confidence in front of crowds as a leader in a formation, or in their terms, being “in front of the line” in Army ROTC. Formica said one of his proudest moments as a member of ROTC was when he had to get up and speak in front of a large group of people. “The day I was called up my freshman year, second semester, they called the entire battalion,” Formica said. “It definitely felt good, it was a rush. You’re in front of 270 people and you’re just a freshman, but you build confidence through experience and time management.” ’MURICA
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Junior Malik Bibby’s alarm goes off at 4:30 a.m. every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. He faces tests of both physical and mental ability through Reserve Officers’ Training Corp. As a member of ROTC at the University of Miami, Bibby says he sees himself as a student, cadet and athlete. Along with other cadets, he attends a leadership laboratory, physical training and a military science class two to three times a week, balancing all of that with schoolwork. “The amount of time we spend training would equate to about eight credits just for ROTC, in addition to our normal class schedule,” he said. After being a member of ROTC in high school, Bibby decided to join Air Force ROTC in the fall of his freshman year. Recently, instead of Air Force ROTC, he decided to switch tracks and join Army ROTC. “I’ve always had a deep personal conviction to help others and give back, and a military career is a great way to do so,” Bibby said. “I have family who served in the Navy and Air Force and their stories and successful careers also inspire me to serve my country.” Through his experiences with ROTC, Bibby has learned from the experiences he has had with other members of his company. According to Bibby, ROTC has members of a company rotate through leadership positions each week and each semester, illustrating to individuals what it means to be both a leader and a follower. “You must trust each other, while at the same time trusting yourself,” Bibby said. “You gain confidence as an individual while contributing to the group effort.” Though Bibby spends a lot of time in uniform with fellow members of his company, the memories Bibby values with ROTC extend beyond training. Cadets of ROTC bond over events such as going to the beach and bowling to remind themselves that they are not only cadets, but also college students.
They say experience is a great teacher, and for senior Jonathan Milberg, his experiences as a cadet of Air Force ROTC have helped him gain leadership skills as well as a better appreciation of the value of friendship. “You’ll learn more in your three to four years in the ROTC program about practical life skills than your average 20-something ever will,” Milberg said. Milberg decided to join Air Force ROTC after he was accepted to UM. “Since I was young, I always wanted to serve,” Milberg said. “I talked to Air Force officers at a college fair and I was hooked.” All branches of ROTC run under the main branch at Florida International University, but the Air Force ROTC at the University of Miami serves as the main branch. For four days in spring 2013, Milberg traveled to Washington, D.C., for the ROTC National Convention. As a member of the Arnold Air Society, an honor society within ROTC, he attended the convention and fostered his idea of what it means to be a leader. “It was an incredible experience,” Milberg said. “It gave me an even greater sense of purpose and appreciation for all I have.” Milberg’s opportunities with ROTC also came with challenges, like when a fellow cadet passed away in a car accident. By helping the cadet’s family, working shifts at the hospital and assisting in planning the funeral, he realized what it meant to be a part of the ROTC family. “It echoes what I always say about this program; you are a family,” Milberg said. “We learned a lot about ourselves and life through our greatest challenges.” When Milberg graduates, he says as a pilot select, he will go off to Texas, Oklahoma or Mississippi for flight training. Flight training takes over a year to complete, according to Milberg. Until then, Milberg balances school work, ROTC and his position as the Keeper of Records and Seals for his fraternity, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.
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K
H C T O K
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L A R E N E G AND Y R T S I T N E D S T R O P 443
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What’s your Favorite FAST
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photo_rori kotch. design_rori kotch.
“Panda Express.” Antonio Espinoza, Freshman
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“Five Guys.”
“Taco Bell.”
Elias da Silva, Senior
Stephanie Weetman, Sophomore
“Chick-fil-A.” Hallie Schechter, Sophomore
“Starbucks.”
“Pollo Tropical.”
Christina Kozanian, Freshman
Ashley Pittaluga, Sophomore
“Sean Magill.”
“Domino’s.”
“Wendy’s.”
“Dairy Queen.”
Hannah Abel, Junior
Alexandra Colombara, Senior
Farrah Bekheet, Freshman
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Sean Magill, Senior
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www.distractionmagazine.com Distraction Magazine If you know how to dream big and get a little crazy while doing it, we can help you out. Do you want to write, design, take photos, blog, copy edit or help us out with social media and PR content? Join an award-wining staff, 23 issues in the making. For more information, please contact our Editor-in-Chief Rori Kotch at r.kotch1@umiami.edu.
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DO
BELIEVE
IN SCHOLARSHIP? 驶CANES CARE FOR 始CANES SCHOLARSHIP The Dino Richard Ghilotti Motta "Canes Care for Canes" Scholarship Fund is awarded to students who choose to pursue a similar virtue of inclusiveness, love and creativity through all that they do in their academic, sport and art-filled lives. The first scholarship was awarded this year to a freshman from California. To
learn more, visit www.miami.edu/dino.
THE dg FOUNDATION The dg Foundation, based in Northern California, provides scholarships to the world-class institutes of San Domenico, Marin Catholic High School, and the University of Miami. If you would like to learn more about The dg Foundation, or donate, Please visit www.thedgfoundation.org.
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