Access Magazine Spring 2025 Issue 3

A ccess

LETTER FROM THE EDITORS

Dear readers,

Welcome to Access magazine’s Wander and Wonder — a magazine born from the belief that life’s richest moments come when we dare to step beyond the familiar and open ourselves to awe. Whether it’s a hidden trail, a bustling market in a new city, or a quiet moment under the stars, every journey invites us to both wander the world and wonder at its endless beauty.

In these pages, you’ll find stories that celebrate curiosity — not just about places, but about people, cultures, ideas, and dreams. Our writers, photographers and adventurers have traveled far and wide (and sometimes just down the street) to capture the spirit of discovery that moves us all.

This issue is an invitation: to explore boldly, to ask questions without rushing for answers and to remember that sometimes getting lost is the surest way to find something unforgettable.

Wherever you are — standing at the edge of a new adventure or dreaming of your next escape — we hope this magazine sparks your own sense of wonder.

Happy exploring,

Taylor Shepherd

Amaya Reynolds

ON THE COVER

Model: Ysabel Malana

Cover photos: Amaya Reynolds and Taylor Shepherd

WHAT’S INSIDE...

Photo: Adobe Stock

empowering through heritage: Latino CuLture at the heart of San JoSé

Michelle Sanchez Staff Writer | @michelless.21

Culture is a way to connect, celebrate and grow. In San José, Latino and Hispanic culture play a role in the city’s identity. With Latinos making up 31% of the population, San José has set up initiatives to support its community. The preservation and evolution of Hispanic and Latino culture are crucial. Preservation of culture helps connect individuals to their roots and base for future innovations according to Gray Group International . In San José, different organizations have taken part in both the preservation and education of others.

Preservation through dance

Traditional dances can be a way into conversing and celebrating Mexican culture according to Moments log. This also gives younger generations the chance to connect with traditions that shape where they are from.

At San José State University, preservation is visible through Ballet Folklorico, known as “folk dance” or dance of the people that reflect traditions depending on a region, according to Vanderbilt University. Maria Luisa Colmenarez, a lecturer of Chicana and Chicano studies and the executive director for Danzantes Unidos, teaches Mexican Folklorico Dance on campus. She believes that teaching this course and her experience with Danzantes Unidos is more than just preservation, but also the relevance. According to Danzantes Unidos.org, this is an organization that brings together Mexican folk groups to help support and promote the Mexican folk experience.“It’s like a springboard to success, to know your roots, appreciate them and connect with your ancestors,” Colmenarez said. “It’s invaluable. It’s very empowering.”

Jose Daza, a dancer in Grupo Mictlán de Danza y Cultura Azteca (Mictlán Group of Aztec Dance and Culture), a group

in San José , agrees with Colmenarez. “Being in a foreign country, with so many cultures, some people pretend to be something that they’re not,” Daza said. “But as soon as they know and understand their culture, their history, their people and their traditions, it changes everything.”

Preservation within organizations

Preservation within the community is an important way for sustainable solutions and ownership of one’s cultural heritage, according to Gray Group International.

Jessica Paz-Cedillos, co-executive director at the School of Arts and Culture at the Mexican Heritage Plaza in San José, mentioned the multiple events such as a Mariachi Festival and Chile Mole Pozole Festival.

“It’s how we go about celebrando nuestra cultura, nuestra raíces (celebrating our culture, our roots) and it’s an opportunity for the community to come together and connect with each other and when you come you see the rich diversity of San José,” Paz-Cedillos said “It’s not just about showing up and being beautiful.”

Anjee Helstrup-Alvarez, the executive director at Movimiento de Arte y Cultura Latino Americana (MACLA) in San José works to help artists and those who are a minority in the entertainment industry. “Centering the voices of Latinx artists and to talk about what is their lived experience, what’s at the top of mind for them and through representing through investing money and supporting them to sometimes create new work or show existing work,” Helstrup-Alvarez said. “We’re not only preserving Latino culture but we’re also documenting it.”

Among these organizations they also work with making sure the youth gets to learn and explore cultures.

Work with the youth

According to Gray Group International, the involvement of youth in activities like internships, workshops and more related to their culture can give them a sense of fulfillment.

MACLA has a youth art program called the Best Buy Teen Center. Helstrup-Alvarez said that teens ranging from 11 and older work with technology like film, music, podcasting and photography. “The story they want to tell with the tools given to build their confidence really helps prepare them to be the next generation of leaders in our community,” Helstrup-Alvarez said.

The Mexican Heritage Plaza also has an afterschool program. During the summer they have a summer camp. Paz-Cedillos notes that the afterschool program revolves around art and

culture that is open to the community. “It’s a high-quality program with six children to one adult and they rotate between visual arts, music, theater, PE and dance,” she said. “I love that we are celebrating with culture.”

Evolution

Colmenarez said that Danzantes Unidos is seeing new forms of dance and music like corridos tumbados and huapango. “We’re talking middle school to high school with new modas or trends,” Colmenarez said.

Within the trends there are multiple ways in which generations are slowly changing the dance culture; it can also be seen within the art community as well. Helstrup-Alvarez said their nonprofit organization focuses not only on preserving Latino culture, but also the evolution within the culture. She further notes that their artists identify as Latinos and a majority of the time they are not always first generations, but sometimes fourth or fifth generation.

In San José, preservation for culture is valuable within the whole community. It is a way to not only preserve and see the evolution of Hispanic and Latino culture, but discover how it continues to change and embrace those that are curious to learn.

“It’s how we go about celebrando nuesta cultura, nuestra rasíces and it’s an opportunity for the community to come together and with each other...”

Jessica Paz-Cedillos Co-executive of School of Arts and Culture at the Mexican Heritage Plaza

Sketchbook full of dreams

Diego Macaraeg Content Editor | @diego.myeggo

On a quiet night in the lower level of San José State University’s Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Library, beneath fluorescent lights, surrounded by a scattered mosaic of sticker sheets, prints and plastic sleeves, Eliana Cherukuri and her friends were in full crunch mode. It was late and most students had long cleared out, but Cherukuri, alongside a few close companions, was finishing up her first-ever product line for the So-So Vintage Market. The snip of scissors and bursts of laughter echoed faintly between bookshelves. Her nerves were high, but her determination was higher.

Just a few weeks earlier, she hadn’t imagined she’d be launching an art business, let alone preparing for her debut as a vendor. But in a span of six hours, from casually discovering the market over coffee to submitting her vendor application, Cherukuri made the leap. “I thought, maybe I can do this. Maybe I should try,” she said. And so she did.

Now a first-year biomedical engineering student at SJSU, Cherukuri’s path into both science and art has been anything but linear. Growing up, she was surrounded by greenery and sketchbooks. She often gardened with her family. In high school, she took a community college biology class taught by an ecologist, which sparked her curiosity about both human systems and the natural world. “I knew I wanted to be in the STEM area and that I liked plants,” she said. “I chose biomedical engineering because it was an open field, and I could even go into art after, if I wanted to.”

But art was always there. She had been drawing since she was a child, encouraged by classmates’ compliments and her own sense of wonder. Things clicked more deeply when

her father bought her a stylus, opening the door to digital drawing and hours of YouTube tutorials. From there, her passion grew into something more serious. An internship with comic artist Lissie Dixon taught her story structure, facial anatomy and the behind-the-scenes of comic creation. Cherukuri even submitted an animated piece to a competition held by Filipino illustrator Sharlene Yap, an entry that was later featured in Yap’s “Animate with Me” YouTube series. “It was a win for me,” she said. “I’d never had my art posted anywhere.”

Despite her clear talent, her artistic path hasn’t always been easy. “I actually wanted to major in animation,” she said. “But I ended up going into a more STEM-related field.” While she once received a drawing tablet that helped her dive deeper into digital art, she’s had to navigate various challenges and moments of discouragement along the way. Between working at a boba shop, keeping up with classes and fulfilling personal and religious commitments, her plate is always full but still she makes time for art. “It’s not always easy to prioritize,” she said. “But I still keep going.”

Cherukuri officially launched her art business in February 2025, encouraged by friends who loved her stickers and asked for commissions. “It’s been really fun so far,” she said. “And I’ve received a decent amount of income, which is nice because now I can pay for my textbooks.”

One of those supportive friends is Genevieve Sink, a firstyear aerospace engineering student who met Cherukuri through a mutual friend’s Discord server. They bonded over music, video games like “Legend of Zelda” and Instagram reels. But it was Cherukuri’s artwork that caught Sink’s eye first. “She’s overly kind to a fault, to the point where I feel bad,” Sink said. “She’s too nice for her own good.” Cherukuri would often chip in for coffee or museum tickets and carry a sketchbook with her everywhere, even drawing

quietly during class. “When she’s stressed, she draws, when she’s bored she draws, when she has five minutes to spare she pulls out a piece of paper,” Sink said. “I don’t think she has a paper that doesn’t have drawings on it, unless it’s her high school diploma.”

Christian Alvarez, another close friend and aerospace engineering student, recalled a moment when Cherukuri spent their 30-minute lunch break quietly sketching. “In 30 minutes, she had done a really good sketch,” he said. “I don’t know how she does it, but the sketches are always beautiful and she almost never erases anything.” That sketch now hangs in the hallway of his dorm.

Sink and Alvarez were both involved in helping Cherukuri prepare for the So-So Market: cutting stickers, giving feedback and helping her set prices. “She was underselling her art,” Sink said. “I had to convince her to increase the prices.” Cherukuri cared more about challenging herself and trying something new than making a profit.

Her first market appearance was far from easy. She produced everything within two weeks—designing, printing, cutting and packaging. “Every single minute I was awake, I was crunching everything,” she said. But despite the chaos, there was joy in the process. “It never felt like work,” Sink said. “It just felt like hanging out with friends.”

The market day itself had its hiccups: breezy weather, curling stickers and a crowd more interested in vintage clothing than indie art. Still, people lit up when they recognized Pokémon and anime characters in Cherukuri’s work. She made a little over $100, with a small profit after labor costs. “At least I made something,” she said. “I thought I was going to be in the negative for the longest time.”

Beyond the money, the moment that mattered most was that first sale. It took nearly two hours, but when it came, Cherukuri and her friends cheered with a kind of joy that couldn’t be measured in dollars. “She was always smiling and looked really happy,” Sink said. “I was glad she was doing something she enjoyed.”

Cherukuri is now setting up an online art page on Ko-fi, a platform where creators can share their work and receive support or donations. She also plans to attend one or two markets each semester while finishing her degree. Eventually, she hopes to keep art as a meaningful side business—or, if all goes well, a full-time career. “I’m most proud of myself for taking the jump and not worrying about what people say,” Cherukuri said. “Art is really rewarding, especially when you don’t have to worry about everything. Worrying takes the joy out of art.”

Eliana Cherukuri’s Illustrations

Eliana Cherukuri and an Illustration of herself

Her Story:

Angela Nguyen Content Editor | @angela.newin

The newsroom is buzzing–cameras rolling, stories unfolding, reporters racing to meet deadlines. A space once dominated by men, more and more women are stepping in front of and behind the camera, making their mark in journalism. One of them is Erin Wilson, whose journey into sports reporting started with a surprising twist and a drive to prove that she belongs.

One Reporter’s Story

Wilson’s journey into journalism began unexpectedly after a high school sports injury altered her path, sparking a passion for reporting. She quickly learned, however, that pursuing a career as a sports reporter would come with significant challenges. “In a gender-biased industry, being the hardest working person in the room can sometimes mean receiving half the credit or little to no credit,” Wilson said.

Women made up just 15% of the workforce in sports journalism–a stark reminder of the barriers Wilson and many others continue to face, according to a 2022 Pew Research Study. In a sea of hard-working female journalists, “You’re being outnumbered in a field where you’re going to be told that you don’t belong,” Wilson said.

For her beginning years, she seized every internship and job opportunity she could find, often sacrificing weekends and

free time just to get her foot in the door. The exhaustion was overwhelming, but her drive—her hunger for success—was stronger than any obstacle. “You have to be a hustler to make a name for yourself in this business and find a way to get a job and make a career out of it,” Wilson said.

That’s precisely what Wilson did to land her first internship, at the Women’s Media Center (WMC). “I was terrible at cameras, terrible at prompters, terrible at audio, but they knew that I was trying,” Wilson said. “And that’s what mattered. Showing up and trying to learn is the key to success

Erin Wilson at the anchor desk

Photo courtesy: Erin Wilson

even if it means crashing and burning at first.”

Growing up in the south, Wilson didn’t often see female African American journalists on television. “I wanted to see black women in this business doing what it is that I’m doing and that made me believe that I can make it,” she said. She drew inspiration from the limited female sports reporters she saw on television and dedicated time to honing her craft.

From a small internship at a news station to other gigs in between, she now works as a sports reporter for KRON4 News.

She hopes to inspire young girls to pursue their dreams. “If they see me being a sports reporter, then it gives those girls hope, which is why I think representation, especially female reporters, is very important,” Wilson said.

Though Wilson’s story is a sign of hope, still, breaking into the industry may have been more difficult for women in previous generations.

Broadcast News in the 1970s-90s

Betsy Gebhart, journalism professor at De Anza College, discovered her passion for journalism at a young age. However, in the 1970s, “Everyone I saw on air was male,” Gebhart said distraughtly.

High school in the 1970s was a different time, according to Gebhart. “I would hear men say, ‘You know, girls don’t have the voices for TV because their voices don’t carry the authority needed for the news,’” Gebhart said.

Luckily, her dream never fully disappeared. She got her initial

taste of the industry, filling in for a night station newsreader at University of California, Santa Barbara’s campus radio station, KCSB FM and “It was thrilling,” Gebhart said. Soon enough, she became a regular newsreader for the program and landed her first job at KDB, a commercial radio station in Santa Barbara. “I was the second woman they hired,” she said.

Gebhart faced a myriad of critical responses when applying to stations. From being told “You don’t have the face for it” to “I only assign female reporters to do entertainment coverage, not hard news,” these dismissals only fueled her passion to prove herself in the industry.

Now, having decades of experience in the industry, “It’s amazing how fast things changed when I first got into it,” Gebhart said. Media outlets depicted mainly male reporters

Betsey Gebhart (bottom left) at presidential candidate Gart Hart’s campaign swing in Silicon Valley in 1984 Photo courtesy: Betsey Gebhart; Photo: Paul Sakuma

Dada (extreme right) and her colleagues in Iran Revolution

Photo courtesy: Farideh Dada

in the early 1970s before more female journalists appeared by the late 1970s, according to Gebhart.

As time went on, Gebhart noticed that even though women were in front of cameras, writing scripts and taking on roles as assignment editors, “the managers were still all males by the 1990s,” she said.

“It isn’t about favoring one gender over the other–it’s about reflecting the full spectrum of society...”

Farideh Dada Chair of journalism departement at De Anza College

Farideh Dada, chair of the journalism department at De Anza College, agreed with Gebhart’s sentiment regarding the type of people who filled higher-positioning roles. Comparing her earlier experiences as a reporter starting in Iran and then in the U.S., she noticed a common pattern. “In leadership roles,

most of the higher editorial positions were held by men,” Dada said.

Both Dada and Gebhart want the next generation of journalists to continue to push for change because “Women bring unique perspectives,” Dada said. “Without their representation, certain issues, perspectives and voices risk being overlooked or underrepresented.”

At the root, “It isn’t about favoring one gender over the other–it’s about reflecting the full spectrum of society,” Dada said. For professors like Gebhart and Dada, they hope to make an impact on aspiring younger generations.

From One Generation to the Next

Gebhart’s and Dada’s hard work are paying off, according to Madison Wilber, a senior San José State University journalism student. After transferring from De Anza College to SJSU, “I felt immensely supported by a lot of people,” Wilber said. Wilber believes making connections with the right people in the industry helped shape her character.

From meeting women like Dada to Gebhart to many others, they helped sharpen Wilber’s technical and creative skills in the newsroom. “It was like I met one person, and then I met 100 and everybody just wants you to be successful,” Wilber said.

Madison Wilber (left) interviews a source as the Editor-InChief at the City College Times as a print reporter Photo courtesy: Madison Wilber

Dada with colleagues in Iran Photo

However, despite the camaraderie and support, she acknowledged that women in media still face significant challenges. “Double standards and everything women do across all industries has always been extremely high,” Wilber said, pointing out that from appearance to behavior, women are often at the center of judgment regardless of what they do or say. “It can be exhausting to keep up with,” she said.

Women of color make up only 8% of U.S. print newsroom staff, 6.2% of radio staff and 12.6% of local news staff, according to a statistic from the WMC. These disparities reinforce the barriers many women face in gaining visibility, leadership opportunities and equitable treatment in the field.

In light of these realities, Wilber believes that “women have to work twice as hard for the respect we (female reporters) deserve.” She envisions a future where women in the media are no longer expected to meet unrealistic standards that conform to outdated norms, where talent and integrity are valued over appearance and performance under pressure.

A Legacy of Change

The collective efforts of Wilson, Gebhart, Dada and Wilber highlight only a small fraction of women in journalism whose efforts will echo throughout history. Their experiences demonstrate that while challenges persist, they are paving the way for future generations of female journalists, ensuring their voices are heard and that their legacies endure.

Karson Wells and Madison Wilber (right) in SJSU Journalism and Mass Communication Department’s studio room Photo courtesy: Madison Wilber

Madison Wilber attending the Emmy Awards for student journalist based in Northern California Photo courtesy: Madison Wilber

Photo Courtesy: Farideh Dada

Zen in the Chaos Calm Your Mind, Recharge Your Life

Sofi Cipriano Staff Writer | @sofi_cipriano_

Close your eyes, sit down, cross your legs and focus on your breath. A wave of relaxation and peace should be filling your head. Most people think of traditional meditation like sitting down and closing your eyes while humming a low chant. Although that is one way to meditate, some people may find other ways to practice meditation. The end result should be the same: a moment of peace in which you focus on the present and let go of all other distractions.

The benefits of meditation are endless. Many people turn to meditation for relaxation and to allow them to have a clear mind. Meditation can reduce anxiety, stress, support emotions and increase your self-awareness, according to Healthline.

For San José State University lecturer and fitness instructor, Barani Win, the calming effect of meditation is the reason she teaches it in her classes. “There are many benefits in terms of relaxation effects,” Win said. “It’s really calming, no matter how you do it, even if you get negative emotions or if you feel like it’s a waste of time.” The relaxation that meditation brings is related to reducing stress in our lives. When you focus on one thing at a time and immerse yourself in the present, it may strip away anxiety about the future.

Students, like Sean Robertson, Radio-Television-Film junior, have been partaking in the practice for a while. Robertson enjoys many types of meditation and practices differently than what some might be used to. “My meditation is more like taking a walk or sitting out on Tower Lawn and listening to the birds,” Robertson said. Maybe include a little bit about why this is his preferred method of meditation.

He added that he needs some activity during his meditation. “I go to the music building and play the piano a lot because my mind is super restless and I have a hard time just sitting still for a prolonged period of time,” he said. “I’m kind of building up to that by letting my mind have something to focus on.”

It’s not only students who are meditating, professors at San

José State University are following suit as well. Nicole Levine, department of Kinesiology lecturer at SJSU, teaches a yoga and stress management class where she focuses a lot on mediation. For Levine, meditation brings awareness to people in their physical sounds and emotions. When meditating, she questions aspects of life which allows her to become more grounded in her meditation, such as “Do I notice the different sounds and just allow them to be?” and “Do I notice the things that are coming up inside of myself? You can do all of that without trying to change it or focus on something else, like let your mind observe it,” Levine said.

Outside of channeling one’s subconscious, she believes meditation can bring out internal feelings. She encourages students to ask themselves, “Can you do so with compassion and with non-judgment?,” she said. “That’s when we start to open up awareness and then we add the layer of non-judgment and compassion, specifically self-compassion.” The benefits of meditation connect with a person’s emotions as well. According to the American Psychological Association, those who regularly meditate are shown to have higher levels of empathy and compassion. This reflects a deeper cognitive ability to sense one’s emotions and how they can become more aware of other people’s emotions and actions

Veneita Schult, kinesiology lecturer at SJSU, believes the meditation she teaches in yoga class gives her students a pause from all the noise and business of their daily lives. “My goal is to give students the tools so they can have more breaks of being in tune with their body and more breaks in between the constant chatter that we all have,” Schult said.

She said that meditation is felt from within your body–especially with young students. “Young students never associate that maybe a physical sensation comes with a mental kind of or emotional state that you’re in,” Schult said.

With its long history and wide-ranging benefits, meditation offers a greater path to clarity, deeper connection and a better understanding of the present moment and the future ahead.

Influencers

Sarah Mosteller Staff Writer

Before the first lecture starts, the real work has already begun: setting up a phone on a windowsill, checking the lighting and lip-syncing to a trending sound for the third take. At many colleges today, social media isn’t just for scrolling—it’s like a second major. Between classes and meetings, students are building personal brands, curating aesthetics and chasing the next viral moment.

College students who trade class breaks for creating content, cultivating followings and pursuing influence are often called campus influencers. The lifestyle comes with attention and social capital, but is it really as good as it looks?

Lauren Russell, a San Jose City College student and incoming transfer to Sacramento State, considers herself more of a micro-influencer. Her TikTok and Instagram showcase a mix of fashion, wellness and lifestyle.

“I wouldn’t necessarily call myself a huge influencer, but I’d definitely consider myself a micro-influencer– especially on TikTok, where my following is a bit larger,” Russell said. “When I first started posting, it was mostly just random videos for fun. Over time, I started sharing more of the lessons I was learning and the challenges I was going through. That’s when my content started to connect with others on a deeper level.”

Russell’s content reflects her personality being expressive and unapologetically herself. “If you look at my Instagram, it’s pretty clear I love color. It’s a huge part of my fashion sense and how I show who I am,” she said.

She hasn’t landed any brand deals yet, aside from an internship with a boutique in San Francisco, but she’s focused on growth. She plans to launch her own clothing brand in the future.

“I think a lot of people assume that being an influencer is easy, but in reality, it can be a lot more challenging than it looks,” she said. “It’s not a source of income for me, it’s a space where I express my creativity. But even then, it can be tough to constantly come up with new concepts and keep ideas flowing.”

According to the 2023 Digital Media Trends report by Deloitte, 40% of college-aged influencers report experiencing fatigue from managing metrics and engagement.

For Nereyda Alvarez-Gonzalez, a sophomore kinesiology major at San José State University, content creation started as a way to share her love for sports and turned into something bigger over time.

“I started making content in my senior year of high school, and it was very sports related– lacrosse, cross country, and track,” she said. “A few of the lacrosse videos started blowing up, especially the ones that were motivational or talked about the good and bad sides of the sport.”

That early momentum brought her a loyal audience and some recognition. “There were people I’d meet at lacrosse tournaments who recognized me from TikTok,” Alvarez-Gonzalez said. “Even now, I’ll get comments from people saying they’re glad they found my account again.”

She doesn’t consider herself an influencer, but understands why others might. “I don’t post as much now, just because I’m busier than I was in high school,” she said. “But I still love making videos, and I want to start leaning more into running content, since that’s the sport I focus on now.”

While she’s been approached by multiple brands, she’s taken a cautious approach due to NCAA rules, but has accepted partnerships with Honey Stinger and Firefly Athletics. She hasn’t monetized her platform through TikTok’s Creator Fund, but says she may consider it down the line.

Like many creators, she’s also had moments of doubt. “There’s definitely pressure when a video does well because then you start wondering how to top it, or if your views will ever be that good again,” she said. “But at the end of the day, I still enjoy seeing my content shared around, like when friends send me my videos posted on other pages. That’s always a cool feeling.”

Alvarez-Gonzalez is looking ahead to nursing school, but still hopes to keep creating after she graduates. “One of my goals is to hit 100k followers someday,” she said. “But mostly I want to post content that feels fun instead of a chore.”

Azaria Purdy, a former SJSU student who transferred to Eastern Washington University, also found herself navigating the influencer space unexpectedly. A public relations major and track athlete, she began documenting her daily life in high school and grew a following by showcasing the student-athlete experience.

“I didn’t really start out trying to be an influencer,” Purdy said. “I just loved making videos and wanted to inspire others. Later on, I realized there weren’t a lot of Black creators making the kind of lifestyle content I enjoyed, so I became the creator I was looking for.”

She now has nearly 19,000 YouTube subscribers. While that brings some recognition, it also comes with demands.

“Once my channel started growing, I definitely felt pressure, especially during creative blocks. I’d stay up really late or pull all-nighters to get content out,” Purdy said. “Balancing school and track made that tough.”

Still, her goals are grounded in connection. “My ultimate goal is to build community and inspire people,” she said. “Content creation is definitely a passion, and I plan to keep going after graduating.”

On today’s college campuses, influencing is a creative outlet for some. While for others it becomes a cycle of pressure, comparison and emotional fatigue. As students navigate the blurred line between authenticity and audience, one thing is clear: the pursuit of influence is as complex as the platforms that shape it.

Illustrations: Adobe Stock

Lauren Russell poses for an Instagram post

Photo Courtesy: Lauren Russell

CREATIVE UNDERGROUND SOUNDS

San José’s hidden music scene is where talent lives

Sofi Cipriano Staff Writer | @sofi_cipriano_

Loud music blisters your ears. Sweaty musicians singing into a stand-up microphone. Cheers erupt from all around. Crowds push and shove each other around. Darkness fills the room with the only light coming from the overhead, shining down on the band. In downtown San José, lurking in the depths of the night, music is alive.

Mainstream musicians play the classics and top hits the public hears every day. Although those catchy songs are popular, local bands are still hidden gems that may spark your interest. Local independent music tends to be more creative and less restricted to a certain sound or genre. Music is an art form, and for many, it’s a way to express themselves and showcase their creativity, according to the Department of Music and Arts Technology at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis.

The local music scene can consist of many different genres. No matter what kind of music one likes to play, when there’s a will, there’s a way. For some bands, it may be difficult to get a start in their career. Finding a place to play can be a challenge as many local bands are trying to make a name for themselves. One way to build a name is by performing at

local shows. Some small local DIY venues in downtown San José offer a space for smaller bands to perform.

One of those venues is called After Hours. After Hours describes itself as “a dirty, dusty, fluorescent basement underneath the skatehouse in downtown San José, according to their Instagram page @afterhours.sj_.

Ian Henriquez, the general manager of After Hours, offers a space for some small and new bands to perform. “People come to us looking for a place to play and all we do is say, ‘You want a place to play? We got you,’” Henriquez said.

One Bay Area band that considers itself musically diverse is Silk Road (@silkroadtheband)- a multi-genre band. The group includes band manager and bassist Ellis Shahin, lead vocalist Amara Lin, backup vocalist Alana Lin, keyboardist Miguel Song, guitarist Garret McGurdle and drummer Davis Adragna. They explore a wide range of genres and aren’t afraid to experiment.

Amara Lin, lead vocalist, believes they all bring something different to the music. “We’re pretty diverse in our expe-

old feelings can help heal emotional wounds and allow for amending past sentiments about something, according to the Melbourne Music Centre.

riences and our music tastes,” she said. “People wouldn’t guess that, but then you come to a show and think to yourself, ‘Oh my gosh.’ We never play one genre.”

That Dog Won’t Hunt is another local up-and-coming band consisting of guitarist Nicholas Ferguson, drummer Junior Swartz, guitarist Parsa Fallah-Adl and vocalist Lily Blanchard. They describe their sound as a mix of sludge metal, with some noise-rock elements and influenced by hardcore punk.

Ferguson believes that creating music can serve a deeper purpose in life outside of just entertainment. “When you make art about going through a rough time, it’s so cathartic,” Ferguson said. “It feels like you’ve let it go by making it into something useful.” For Ferguson, music’s creative outlet can be emotional and turn old feelings into something new. The process behind creating music and processing

San José local Screamo Band “Brahm” (@b_r_a_h_m) has been part of the local scene for a while, establishing their band back in 2019 and coming up on 6 years together. The band includes vocalist and guitarist Griffin Slinker, a bassist and drummer Nick Aganad. Their genre blends many different types of emotions and stems from emo music, which is short for emotional.

Slinker said the screamo genre allows for self-expression. “I think there’s so much potential for it, and I think that’s what drives me to it,” he said. “It’s also the raw emotional output that goes into it. It can be so many things.” For their specific genre, many associate screamo music with anger. The bands’ drummer views it from a different perspective. For him, “Anger is a gift,” Aganad said.

Slinker and Aganad both celebrate expressing anger and all emotions through music, “Yeah, it’s a gift and you have to express that, just like you have to express yourself when you’re happy,” Slinker said.

Whether you listen to mainstream music or prefer the local scene, it becomes very apparent that some of the most expressive and unique music comes from the underground. The art of music can be healing, cathartic and expressive for those who listen and those who create it.

Miguel Song (left), Amara Lin (middle) and Ellis Shanin (bottom right) of Silk Road

Photo courtesy: Instagram @Silkroadtheband

Grinding Experience Making Games at SJSU

Diego Macaraeg Content Editor | @diego.myeggo

For the students behind San José State University’s Game Development Club (GDC), making a game has become more than extracurricular fun. It’s a sandbox for experimentation, failure, teamwork and dreaming big with limited resources. It’s often the first time students are building a game from scratch. Through collaboration and hands-on learning, they’re gaining real-world skills and industry insight that can lead to careers in game design, animation, engineering and digital storytelling.

At first glance, game development might seem intimidating—coding, producing, art, sound design, game design, UI/ UX design, quality assurance testing and writing all rolled into one overwhelming creative challenge. But the GDC offers a space to explore these roles in a supportive, flexible environment that welcomes beginners and pushes experienced members to grow.

From Twitch Streams to Team Leader

Jessica Doan, a third-year business management major, never imagined she’d lead one of the most technically and creatively demanding clubs on campus. She was more familiar with video games from the other side of the screen as a Twitch streamer.

“I didn’t even want to volunteer to be a leader,” Doan said. “But my friend forced my hand to open up and be a lead for a game.”

Now the club’s president, she organizes events, oversees game projects, runs workshops and keeps the club on track, all while staying focused on her studies. Before being the president, she was an active member. Her first game, built with a team of 13, was a crash course in development and leadership.

“I do put a lot of effort into the club,” she said. “But at the end of the day, we are all students. That comes first.”

Building a Game: Step by Step

Doan broke down the club’s typical development process. Teams start with an idea, sometimes a traditional story, other times a theme or emotional tone to guide their mechanics and visuals. This approach is common in semester-long projects or game jams, fast-paced events where developers build a game in a few days or a week.

Once a playable build is ready, the game enters testing, where quality assurance (QA) testers provide feedback and squash bugs. “It’s best to have fresh eyes to play the game,” Doan said. “Because you’ll always miss something when you’re too close to it.”

Throughout the semes ter, there are three official checkpoints: the initial pitch, a

“This is all driven by passion, and they would push themselves harder than most classes would.”

James Morgan SJSU Game Development Club Advisor

mid-semester showcase and the final presentation. Many are later uploaded to platforms like Itch.io or Steam.

Pixels and Teamwork

Natalie Wu, a third-year animation/illustration major and the club’s graphic design lead, works on Black Tower, a game led by fellow member John Huber. “It’s a collaborative process of translating his vision into visuals,” she said. “Sometimes it takes a while to get it right.”

She creates pixel art using a program called Aseprite and draws inspiration from titles like Genshin Impact, Hades and even Pixar films. While she’s worked on other game projects before, she said this one stands out. “This is the first time people are actually working together and putting in the time and effort to produce a game,” she said. “With this project, I’ve had more motivation, and I think it’s because of our producer.”

Learning by Leading

Huber, a third-year philosophy major, found an interest in game development through his love for Dungeons and

Dragons. “I thought it sounded fun, but it was a lot of commitment,” Huber said. “This year, I decided to make it a full-time commitment to create my game and give it my all.” As writer, producer and game designer, he juggles scheduling, meetings and creative direction. He handles the logistics so others can focus on their strengths. Wu credits him for keeping the team motivated. In past projects, she said it was difficult to stay focused because teammates would lose interest or burn out. “But this time, everyone gets along, has experience and wants to finish the game.”

“I’m always shocked and a little impressed whenever I actually play our game,” Huber said. “Knowing where it started and where we are now, it’s insane.”

The workload has taken a toll, but Huber sees it as growth. “I really want to learn how to manage people and expectations so the next time I start a game it can be even more streamlined.”

Advising Through Passion

James Morgan, a lecturer at SJSU and the club’s advisor, sees the dedication firsthand. He helps students stay aligned

with university rules but leaves the creative direction to them.

“I love the passion that the members of the club have for making games,” Morgan said. “This is all driven by passion, and they push themselves harder than most classes would.” He believes game development teaches more than just technical skill. It sharpens communication, adaptability and problem-solving.

“If you don’t have someone on the team that is capable of doing a particular thing, then somebody on the team has to learn it,” he said. “There’s a sort of willingness to work a little harder for the final project.”

His advice to newcomers: start small. Make a game, even if it’s just on paper. Use engines like Scratch or Twine. Show it to others. Get feedback. Learn.

“Make something that you can show to other people,” Morgan said. “That’s how it starts.”

Endgame: Building More Than Games

Despite the challenges, both Doan and Huber emphasized how welcoming the club is. It’s open to newcomers, passionate hobbyists and career-focused creatives alike. It’s a blend of seriousness and social energy that keeps members coming back.

“The club has a unique atmosphere that’s relaxed yet focused,” Huber said. “We get guest speakers and educational presentations. Then there’s time to chat and hang out.”

John Huber (left), Anson Lau (standing middle), Alan Xu (right) collaborate during a Game Development Club meeting at SJSU

Photo: Diego Macaraeg

Title screen of Black Tower, a game designed by SJSU animation major Mitchell Nguyen

Viva Calle or “Long live the streets” event at Saint James Park

Photo: Dhwani Adhishesh

Allegra, SURJ representative holding a petition for social reform in Santa Clara County Photo: Dhwani Adhishesh

RELIGIOUS INCLUSIVITY

more than a prayer, making space for every faith

or many college students, faith is more than a belief; it’s a way of life. San José State University is home to a vibrant tapestry of religious traditions such as Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Buddhism and other faiths. Religion not only weaves through the culture of college students, but is also an important aspect of higher education in which religious diversity and education can benefit students from

Religious diversity refers to the significant differences in religious beliefs and practices, according to a State University of New York article titled “Theories of Religious Diversity.” Marianne Delaporte Kabir, a religious studies lecturer at SJSU, believes religious diversity can positively impact college students. “Religious diversity is one of the great benefits of a college education,” Kabir said. “Students often

SJSU supports this diversity through its academic offerings. The university offers a humanities degree with a religious studies concentration, where students are required to take courses on traditions such as Middle Eastern traditions, pagan traditions and more. Students can also choose from a list of classes about thoughts, texts and images, according to an SJSU Humanities, Religious Studies Concentration, BA

This approach deepens students’ understanding, as Kabir notes in her Bible class. “We examine the Bible from a historical and literary standpoint,” Kabir said. “For many students who have been reading the Bible as people of faith until that class, it can be a difficult shift but one which they welcome as it expands their understanding of a central text in their lives.”

Religious scholars often emphasize the importance of learning about other religions, not only for religious students, but also for the general public. Huston Smith, a comparative religions scholar, wrote, “Christianity has been my central meal from the start, but I’m a strong believer in vitamin supplements and what I have gained from these other traditions is tremendously enriching.”

This idea resonates with students like Sama Elbaramawi, a second-year graphic design student at SJSU, finds strength in their own religious communities on campus. Elbaramawi was born and raised in a Muslim family and believes it is easy to fit in at SJSU because of the large Muslim community on campus. “Our Muslim Student Association (MSA) is thankfully very active and it feels like I’m part of a second family that I can always reach out to for support,” Elbaramawi said. “My friends who attend colleges with smaller Muslim populations have told me that it’s much harder for them to fit in, which makes me grateful for SJSU MSA.”

The MSA at SJSU is dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment for Muslim students by offering prayer spaces and Quran Halaqa, a weekly reading of the Quran–the central religious text of Islam, according to the SJSU MSA web page. “An issue I come across is finding a clean, quiet place to pray, especially without being judged, and having our own space really helps,” Elbaramawi said. “The MSA’s Friday congregation prayers are also great, especially for students who live on campus or have to get to class right after and don’t have the ability to attend at a mosque.”

At nearby San Francisco State University, students of different religious backgrounds are also finding value in both practicing their own faith and learning about others. Gabriela Torres, a senior speech-language and hearing student at San Francisco State University, is a practicing Catholic. “I took a religious studies course last semester and it was really beneficial,” Torres said. “Learning about other cultures and religions makes you a lot more open-minded which I think is important, especially since in the Bay Area we’re all so religiously diverse.”

For Catholics, Lent is a religious observance in the litur-

gical year in preparation for Easter. It echoes the 40 days Jesus spent in the desert, fasting and enduring temptations, according to a Hallow web page. “It’s special for me that in this time of preparation for Passover, I have a community on campus that I can lean on,” Torres said. “Lent is a time when I have felt a sense of community and peacefulness.”

Similarly, Elbaramawi finds meaning during Ramadan–a holy month observed by Muslims worldwide as a time of fasting, prayer and reflection–as a very fulfilling time. “During the last 10 nights, I stayed up almost every day until Fajr, which messed my sleep schedule up and made it hard for me to keep my attendance on track,” Elbaramawi said. “I’m happy we had our spring break right after because it gave me a chance to easily fix my sleep and get ready for courses to resume.”

Ultimately, fostering religious inclusivity on college campuses is about creating an environment where every student feels seen, respected and empowered to be themselves. Students from all backgrounds–from Christians to Muslims, Buddhists to Jews–bring their beliefs with them every day, highlighting how crucial it is to learn about religions and the greater impact this has on students’ education.

This influence often extends beyond the classroom, shaping students’ values, daily choices and how they engage with the broader world around them. “Learning about religion and other people’s culture makes you an open-minded individual,” Torres said. “This has ultimately led to more positive relationships with my co-workers, friends, family and the community in general.”

“Learning about other cultures and religions makes you a lot more open-minded which I think is important, especially since in the Bay Area we’re all so religiously diverse.”

Gabriela Torres Student at SFSU

Jet Set with Confidence

Michelle Sanchez Staff Writer | @michelless.21

A Girl’s Survival Guide to

Travel

With the feeling of the warm sun and ocean breeze, tropical locations like the Dominican Republic are a popular spring break location. But even in a stunning location, unexpected things can happen.

Sudiksha Konanki, a University of Pittsburgh student who was enjoying her spring break in the Dominican Republic, went missing March 6, 2025 in what was believed to be a drowning incident in the ocean. What should have been a memorable trip with friends turned into something unexpected. Her story helps serve as a reminder of women’s safety when traveling.

Incidents like Konanki’s highlights the importance of being prepared and aware while traveling. Experienced travelers like Patricia Mendoza emphasized steps to ensure safety before and during trips.

Frequent traveler

As a frequent traveler, Mendoza has visited Mexico, Central America and areas within the U.S. Mendoza said that when traveling, she makes sure to go to the U.S. Department of State website, where they have information on what to look for and safety precautions.

Mendoza has encountered certain situations that caught her by surprise when traveling. One of these instances occurred when traveling to Colombia where she noticed her driver was carrying a firearm. “He just said this is how it is in Colombia,” Mendoza said. “It’s normal there and you just have to be more aware of your surroundings.”

Her husband Rafeal Mendoza said he worries when his wife travels alone since she is a petite woman, although he knows

Parco Nazionale delle Cinque Terre in Liguria, Italy

Photo: Michelle Sanchez

she can defend herself. “She’s still more of a target because people assume that she won’t put up a fight, because she’s a woman,” he said.

Even with concerns of women’s safety when traveling, many women still desire to explore and women travel alone for various reasons.

Why women travel alone

Women are more likely than men to be harmed when traveling alone or with a group. Travel can be an unforgettable experience and about 85% of travelers are women, according to a Forbes article. Mendoza is just one of the many women that could be part of this statistic, navigating both joys and challenges of seeing the world.

While Mendoza’s experiences highlight the real concerns women face on the road, experts also point to the many benefits that travel offers women. Dr. Jie Gao, associate professor in the department of Hospitality, Tourism and Management at San José State University, emphasized the deeper impact women encounter when traveling. “When a woman wants to travel, it’s important because it can improve her mental health,” Gao said. “It also enhances social life, because women will have more to share and talk about.”

Another reason women choose to travel alone is to gain a sense of independence. Women travel for multiple reasons, according to an article by Modern Adventure. Some of these reasons include independence and individualism, as well as the chance to express their sense of identity.

The desire for personal growth is echoed by experts in the field of travel and education. Erin Kelly-Weber, a senior program specialist in the Study Abroad Office at SJSU, said traveling can provide both education and personal growth. “Gaining independence is often something that we hear a lot from students who seek to study abroad,” Kelly-Weber said. “They really want to have an experience that allows them to grow personally as well as academically and professionally.”

Carolina Sanchez, a 19-year-old frequent traveler from Southern California, said how traveling by herself gives her a sense of confidence. “It gives you a bit more confidence when you travel alone rather than if you travel with a friend,” said Sanchez, who studies at MiraCosta College. She said there is a reward when traveling solo. “If something went well on your trip, you knew it was because you planned it out perfectly or you had a good experience with it.”

Preparing for a trip

International Citizen Insurance notes that it’s important to research one’s destinations to see if there are different customs and any concerns that may come up.

Building on the importance of preparation, Gao mentioned that one of the key things to do when traveling is to look into where they will stay and read reviews from those places. “I would suggest conducting some research online to read reviews about other people’s travel there,” Gao said. “This allows travelers to make more informed decisions, as reviews can offer insight on how a place might meet one’s expectations, based on others’ perspectives.”

When preparing for a trip, it’s also important to note the cultural differences, while also taking the standards of the

MiraCosta College student Carolina Sanchez in Paxos, Greece

SJSU student Valentina Ramsay in Europe

destination into account, according to the National Library of Medicine.

Certain dress codes and behaviors might be different in each culture, which makes understanding these customs a must for travelers who want to navigate unfamiliar environments confidently and with awareness.

One of the key customs to be aware of are the different gender norms, according to Kelly-Weber. She emphasizes how displaying respect for others’ gender norms helps a traveler to blend seamlessly into the culture around them, rather than attracting more attention.

She looked back at her own experiences when traveling to Chile and encountering cat-calling.“It’s just important to understand and it helps to give a little bit more context into why somebody may be behaving a certain way,” she said. “If you do encounter something like that, you know it’s your prerogative in terms of how you want to respond,” Kelly-Weber said.

When Abroad...

It’s necessary to be aware of one’s surroundings when traveling –especially when independently travelling as a woman–according to a site titled Information for Women Travelers. One way to stay aware is by planning ahead to avoid unsafe situations and using your best judgment throughout the trip.

Sanchez suggested that travelers not reveal trip details with others. “Never tell people you’re traveling alone, especially if something feels off,” she said. “I always pretended I had

at least a best friend who was a guy or a brother who was with me on the trips.”

While there are concerns when traveling alone it is important to still enjoy your trip and build connections in the places you visit. According to International Citizen Insurance, connecting with other women when traveling helps women to learn about their destination but provides them with a chance to meet with others while traveling.

Other female travelers, such as Valentina Ramsay, an SJSU Study Abroad and Away Global Ambassador, also expressed concerns about traveling alone. When soloing in Barcelona, she was a bit hesitant to travel to the rest of Europe. “Then I met all of these amazing women who were in the same boat as me, hearing all their travel stories and it made me realize that if they can do it, so can I,” Ramsay said.

While Ramsay’s story highlights the power of connecting with fellow travelers, Sanchez’s experience shows that even those who are shy can make meaningful connections while abroad. Sanchez added how meeting other girls made her feel included in the rich culture. “I made friends in Vienna and I don’t talk much to people and I don’t make friends that quickly, but over there I did become friends with two girls,” Sanchez said. This blossoming friendship encouraged her to venture globally and made her overall travelling experience much more worthwhile.

Traveling isn’t only about the destination but also the exploring and understanding oneself. With precaution and research, traveling for women can bring a sense of freedom and confidence.

Colosseum Rome, Italy Photo: Michelle Sanchez

Technology Takeover in Classrooms

Angela Nguyen Content Editor | @angela.newin

In a traditional classroom, books line the shelves and crayons scatter students’ desks. In this digital age, laptops and tablets have become just as common, raising questions about how this shift is reshaping learning.

“In 2024, the average reading score for the nation at grade 8 was 2 points lower than 2022 and 5 points lower compared to 2019,” according to the Nation’s Report Card which measures students’ achievements, highlighting concerns from Bay Area teachers and families. Does technology truly support learning, or is it causing setbacks?

Technology Infiltrating Classrooms

For teachers, such as Jennifer Nguyen, a first-grade educator at Evergreen School District, technology is now essential. “My first-graders do their homework and tests online,” Nguyen said. “They grasp certain concepts faster with iPads than when I write on the board.”

However, Nguyen is cautious about technology’s overall impact. “Technology has its pros and cons,” Nguyen said. While it helps students learn more efficiently, she’s concerned about certain drawbacks. “Excessive screen time can lead to short attention spans, not all students have equal access to technology,” she said.

Research supports this concern. A study by Santa Maria College found that children’s attention spans have dropped by 66% since 2004, from 2 minutes to just 47 seconds. Nguy-

en believes this change is impacting how students process information inside and outside the classroom.

Reflecting on her own education, she notes that teaching methods today are more interactive. “Technology is half of the curriculum now,” Nguyen said. “Overall, my students are reading at an average level”. Despite the shift, she believes teachers must manage screen time so students don’t lose focus or reading comprehension skills.

Technology in Charter Schools

From 2020 to 2021, California is home to 1,334 charter schools, with Santa Clara County accounting for 18% of the state’s total public schools, according to data from the National Alliance for Public Charter Schools. Charter schools are public schools that operate independently compared to regular public schools. This number highlights charter schools’ prevalence in the discussion about technology’s role in education.

Teachers at charter schools, like Donna Bulaoro, a special education teacher in the East Side San José District, have a more positive outlook on technology. “My students use iPads for English Language Arts (ELA) and math skills,” Bulaoro said. “It makes learning more fun and interactive, and I think it’s necessary for today’s general education.”

Bulaoro, who grew up without as much tech in the classroom, believes today’s students benefit from diverse learning

options. However, while she supports the pros of technology usage, she emphasizes the importance of in-person support. “Some students at my school even have one-on-one tutoring,” Bulaoro said, underscoring the importance of one-on-one instruction, especially in special education.

At What Cost?

Beyond the benefits and challenges of incorporating tech into classrooms, both Nguyen and Bulaoro share a concern: the affordability of education tools.“I get a $100 stipend for classroom supplies, but I often spend more out of my own pocket to make sure my students have what they need,” Bulaoro said. She explains that teachers’ responsibility is to provide essential classroom supplies like pencils, coloring sheets and other materials.

Since teachers can’t cover all the costs of supplies, Bulaoro has implemented a donation request letter at the beginning of the school year. “It helps me space out when I need to refill on materials, which is always greatly appreciated,” Bulaoro said. “This encourages parents to take an active role in their children’s education.”

Growing up in a low-income family, Bulaoro emphasizes the struggle of low-income families in accessing technology. “It’s hard working in a charter school sometimes because at the end of the day, it is a public school,” Bulaoro said. “Public schools can only do so much to help children, especially low-income families, because you never know if families can afford things out of school that would be necessary for their child’s education, like a laptop or iPad.”

Investing in the Youth

Kim Lee, a San Jose mother of two, including Andrew, who has autism, understands the role technology plays in her children’s education. “Education is not always a linear path,” Lee said. “I was raised in rural Vietnam and we had chalkboards, not screens.”

Lee emphasized the difference between her education and her children’s education. “At first, I was not happy about technology in classrooms because I thought, ‘well, we have teachers, why do we need iPads to do their jobs for them,’” Lee said. Eventually, technology changed her viewpoint. “Not only did I see that Andrew was becoming excited to do his assignments, but he grew to love it,” she said.

She remarks on how certain apps, such as Google Classroom, a free learning management system, is able to connect students to their teachers. “Sometimes, if Andrew had a question but school was over, he would post a question to the chat and someone would help him,” Lee said.

Over 40 million users are utilizing the app to make education materials digitally accessible for students, according to research.com. This benefits students and parents who may miss a day of class or need to relocate materials from previous days.

She highlights that stark difference in education for both of her sons. “With Andrew, it’s difficult to maintain his attention span because of his special needs; however, Calvin is able to soak in information from reading his textbooks,” Lee said. “Technology really changed the game for Andrew’s education.”

Technology in Different Shapes

Calvin Nguyen, Lee’s younger son, appreciates the benefits of technology. “I’m able to talk with my friends about class,” he said. When he is unable to attend class, his teacher links him to coursework material through Google Classroom, making it easier for him to stay up to date with assignments.

However, Calvin Nguyen also sees a downside: “Students

“Excessive screen time can lead to short attention spans, not all students have equal access to technology.”

Jennifer Nguyen

First-grade educator at Evergreen School District

can take advantage of the time for technology when they’re at school,” Calvin Nguyen said, referring to the temptations of phone apps.

A Common Sense Media Study found that 97% of students ages 11 to 17 use their phones during school hours, potentially disengaging them from lessons.

Calvin Nguyen understands the importance of personal responsibility in his education. “My mom always told me that I’m one of three people responsible for my education–teachers and parents are part of that equation too,” he said. “At the end of the day, it’s really up to me what I choose to do with my education.”

My Children, Your Future

In the long run, Lee hopes that technology can become more affordable. “I want other children to benefit the way Andrew has,” Lee said, emphasizing that access to technology is crucial for student success.

As classrooms increasingly rely on technology, educators like Jennifer Nguyen and Balaoro and parents like Lee, agree that balance is key. While technology can enhance learning, it’s vital for schools, families and communities to ensure all students have the tools necessary for success. “Invest in your children, because they’re building your future,” Lee said.

Illustrations: Adobe Stock

Staging creativity

Alejandra Gallo

Content Editor | @ale.jandragallo

Lights, camera, action: San José State University’s department of film, theatre and dance is home to aspiring actors, producers, dancers and many other creative students. Here, creativity meets opportunity. Aspiring actors, producers and dancers are stepping into the spotlight by gaining the skills and experience needed to make their mark on the industry before they even graduate.

Barnaby Dallas, director of film and theatre production at SJSU and Spartan Film Studios, works directly with students from all levels of production, such as casting, rehearsals, performances and filming.

“Students are involved at every level,” Dallas said. “There are dedicated classes for actors and crew members that take part in every stage of the production process. Directors and designers also work closely with students through classes directly connected to the productions.”

The Spartan Film Studios offers film students the opportunity to participate in film production and create feature-length or short subject films, according to the Spartan Film Studios Web page. It is a unique interdisciplinary relationship between the Theatre Arts and Television-Film program.

Rose Crandall, a first-year student in the Department of

Film, Theatre and Dance at SJSU, was drawn to the program because of the connections she knew she would form. “They offer a specific path through the technical design and production focus and I am extremely passionate about this field,” Crandall said. “I was happy to have a smaller program because it meant it would be much easier for me to connect to my professors, peers and local opportunities.”

Students in the department are able to work on every stage of the production process. “I love working with the aspiring performers and crew members involved in each production,” Dallas said. “It’s incredibly rewarding to watch them grow in their craft and improve with every show. While you’re in college, try everything. You never know which aspect of theatre or film—whether it’s performance or production— you’ll end up loving.”

Crandall reflected on her experience in the industry noting that it isn’t easy to put trust in yourself and in the community to find a way to continue pursuing art. “In the end, it was the best decision I have ever made and I am learning to balance both the challenges and successes that come with this kind of work,” Crandall said.

Jordan Michelena, a third-year theatre arts student, has worked at Hammer Theatre Center, located in Downtown

San Jose, 0.5 miles away from campus, for three years. “Many of us are working on multiple shows and projects while doing a full course load,” Michelena said. “In my three years I have been a student here, I have worked heavily on about 20 productions, nearly all of them being paid opportunities and in my professional field of interest.”

Hammer Theatre was completed in 1997 and held theatrical productions for over 17 years, according to the Hammer Theatre web page. In March 2016, SJSU reopened the theatre as a modern performance space, which serves the community and the university by featuring talented students and international artists.

“The theatre department of SJSU is small, but it is filled with some of the kindest, most talented and hard-working people I have met in my life,” Michelena said. “The work that the theatre students and the theatre department produce is valuable work, some of us working at the same caliber as full-time professionals.”

Jenni Hong, a dance lecturer, has worked with dance majors and minors at SJSU since 2022. “These dancers are extremely dedicated and show remarkable resilience, continually striving for growth even in the face of personal and real-life challenges or physical obstacles and injuries,” Hong said.

She said the Department of Film, Theatre and Dance holds two dance concerts in the Fall semester; one by the University Dance Theatre that features works by international guest choreographers and faculty. In the Spring, there are four concerts. “One by the University Dance Theatre or the SJSU dance ensemble directed by Chafin Seymour, assistant professor at SJSU,” Hong said. “The second is a concert which features first-year dance majors called ‘Revealed.’

The third involves a new, small dance work by the advanced choreography students titled ‘Rendered.’ The final concert is a senior portfolio concert that features work of SJSU dance seniors.”

Hong urges students to keep an open mind and to stay honest in a world filled with overwhelming, diverse and often conflicting information. “When in doubt, remember why you dance,” she said. “Don’t ever lose the joy of dancing, no matter how hard it gets. Keep pursuing various opportunities such as residences, classes and performances so you can be seen and connect with others in the dance community outside of SJSU.”

Troy Chuckran and Alexandra Teixidó at rehersal for the 1984 play

Photo: Octavio Franklin

TOXIC TV BADDIES CULTURE

Kennedy Mayo

Social Media Manager | @kennedymayo_

Television and social media are powerful tools that shape kids under the age of 18. At the same time, educational TV and social media can benefit kids at a young age. According to Media Smarts, television can teach kids important values and life lessons through educational programs that can develop young children’s socialization and learning skills.

Children are like sponges; they absorb what they hear, see and experience. They are likely to mimic what they see on social media or TV. Shows that normalize aggression and bullying can lead children to become more disrespectful, making them believe that this is normal and acceptable.

Not only children, but students at San José State University have had first hand experience when it comes to negative TV shows affecting their life.

Jordan Levi, 21, an Organizational Studies with a minor in African American Studies senior at SJSU, discussed his experience with the reality TV show “Baddies.”

“I used to watch baddies when it first came out,” he said. “I noticed that when Sunday started coming up for me to watch the show, I was honestly stressed thinking about it and watching the show was causing me a lot of stress. “In my relationship at the time, it would cause us to fight more and affect the way we would react to each other.” Levi added that there would be aggression and ego.

There may be a variety of educational shows for young kids, there are also a handful of negative shows hitting the mainstream. “Baddies” is a Zeus Network that portrays violence and poor moral behavior that can leave a lasting impression

on young children. Exposure to negative content can have a long-term harmful effect according to the American Academy of Pediatrics

‘Baddies’ is an American TV show that documents young women living together while hosting events who get into physical and verbal altercations. This show is very popular, especially with young kids, according to Similar Web. The main stars consist of Natalie Nunn and Chrisean Rock, who draw significant attention from young viewers due to their high influence on social media.

Thailyah Miller, 20, public health sophomore, also weighs in on the baddie situation and it has affected her and her relationship.

“I honestly stopped watching Baddies a couple weeks ago,” Miller said. “It is really bad for me and it stresses me out.”

Miller also shares how Baddies has affected her close friends and family relationships.

“I’ve noticed that my little sister, 14, watches Baddies and her attitude has completely changed,” she said. ”I ended up cancelling the subscription so she did not have access to it anymore because she should not be watching shows like that.”

Reality TV typically reveals inappropriate behavior within peer groups, often promoting interpersonal drama, aggression and bullying, according to the Clay Center for Healthy Young Minds. For example, women in The Real Housewives franchise gossip, backstab and behave aggressively, condescendingly and catty toward one another.

However, watching “Ms. Rachel” on YouTube, an educational show for children featuring music and learning, is more beneficial because it’s age appropriate and teaches viewers valuable moral lessons.

Natalie Nunn and Chrisean Rock, who are prominent figures on Zeus, have faced alot of backlash for their behavior that is considered negative influences, particularly with the younger audience.

According to Hip Hop Vibe, During a Baddies Midwest audition, Nunn was seen urging contestants to instigate a fight by snatching another woman’s wig. The incident then escalated into a physical altercation which enraged viewers that Nunn was promoting and inciting violence and setting a poor example.

Chrisean’s Rock’s actions have also been under scrutiny.

According to Baller Alert, Rock was involved in an accident where she assaulted one of Tamar Braxton’s backup singers at her concert. The altercation ended with the victim being hospitalized, which led Rock to deactivate her Instagram account amid the backlash.

Parents aren’t the only ones who are concerned with inappropriate television shows; podcasters are as well. According to Talon Marks, a podcast that speaks on the ”Baddies Culture”, they share their opinions on how kids are gaining access to it and how harmful it is. ”Baddies Culture” is a term used to describe a culture that glorifies negative behavior and attitudes, plummeting the youth.

Shanaih Campbell is a current Arts and Entertainment editor for Talon Marks, a public forum, for Cerritos College.

“A lot of people are seeing these fights and these children are seeing all these things and have access to them,” Campbell said. “It just comes down to them seeing that and thinking that it’s normal to get drunk and fight and want to argue and do all these different things and that should not be the case.”

In today’s society, shielding today’s children from media with negative implications proves to be challenging. By promoting balanced media consumption, we can plant hope for a healthier consumption of media for our children.

Reality of College SPRING BREAK

Sarah Mosteller Staff Writer

Spring break used to be a big deal. Parties, beaches, flights to wherever the influencers went last year. But now? It feels different. At San José State University and campuses across the country, the break isn’t exactly what it used to be.

The reasons vary. For some, it’s money. For others, it’s burnout. But for most, it’s a mix of both and a growing feeling that the old version of spring break just doesn’t make sense to do anymore.

“I didn’t want to spend money on an Airbnb and a rental car,” said Sam Jackson, a senior sociology major at Oklahoma State University. “It just didn’t make sense to drop hundreds for a few days when graduation is around the corner.”

Ketsia Tshishimbi, a public health senior at San Diego State University, had a similar perspective. “I knew I wasn’t going on any trips because, financially, I just didn’t prepare myself for that.”

They’re part of a larger change shaped by rising financial pressures for college students. According to a 2024 report by the National College Attainment Network, cost is the single largest barrier to higher education, with many students struggling to cover not just tuition but basic living expenses. As affordability becomes a growing concern, decisions around things like spring break show these broader sacrifices. But money isn’t the only force behind the change. Social pres-

Photo: Adobe Stock

sure, especially on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, plays a role too.

“Sometimes the hype around spring break isn’t even coming from college students,” said Tshishimbi. “It’s people who know college students will be there, so they plan their trips around that. Meanwhile, a lot of us can’t even afford to go.”

For a long time, Miami reigned as the unofficial destination of college spring break, but that era might be coming to an end. In March 2024, The New York Times reported that Miami Beach was taking drastic steps to stop the yearly rush of students, including bag checks at beach entrances, garage closures, and a heavy police presence. The city’s message was: “It’s not us. It’s you.”

It seems that students are looking to find new destinations as Miami ups the restrictions. The big shift this year amongst other schools in the nation was toward Houston, which became popular as it spread throughout social media. A now-viral Instagram account, @htxspringbreak, promoted a huge spring break event that drew interest from students at over 200 universities, including dozens of Historically Black Colleges and Universities and major public schools. The flyer listed yacht parties, mansion events, and poolside meetups that were all set to be in Houston.

The caption on one of the account’s most-liked posts read “SPRING BREAK NEXT YEAR IS ONE TO REMEMBER AND #RIPMIAMI IN WITH THE NEW.”

The trend really shows how student-led movements driven by social media are becoming the new hyped up destinations through group chats and Instagram reposts.

Still, even when travel is a possibility, some students say the pressure to create the typical movie vacation that’s worthy of being posted on social media adds to the stress. And after midterms and the everyday college fatigue, prioritizing rest just sounds like the better alternative.

But for some students, the classic spring break fantasy still has an appeal. “I would just want to be on a beach somewhere warm and tropical, possibly the Bahamas,” said Savana Dutton, a junior forensic science major at SJSU. Even if the trip doesn’t happen, the idea of escaping the routine in San Jose remains strong.

Research published by the Sleep Foundation showed that students who spend the break catching up on sleep or lightly preparing for finals tend to perform better academically than those who go all out. The study found that during finals week, less than 10% of students get enough sleep, and sleep

deprivation negatively impacts grades. It’s a pattern that student health centers have noticed, too. Many report a rise in stress and fatigue-related appointments the week after break.

Dutton said the week off makes a real difference, even if it’s not a full escape. “Spring break helps because it’s like a stress reliever,” she said. “I don’t have to attend classes, and even though there’s still homework, it doesn’t feel as heavy as it would during a regular week.”

Others say that the burnout is inescapable at this point of the semester, especially since spring break is the only time off on the spring calendar.

Tianna Bartoletta, a certified therapist and three-time Olympic gold medalist, says the way students spend spring break often reflects their coping mechanisms, even if those strategies aren’t always perfect. “Some people have healthier coping mechanisms than others,” she said. “But as a therapist, you don’t want to fully judge how someone approaches coping. You just want to be like, hey, maybe we don’t get blackout drunk because that causes other problems– but a lot of us are just doing our best to hold it together.” Bartoletta emphasized that, for many students, spring break is the first real opportunity to let go of the stress they’ve been carrying all semester. “That release, even if messy, is sometimes what it takes to reset,” she said.

At SJSU, students who opted for a quieter break echoed that sentiment. Burnout among college students is an ongoing issue. According to the American College Health Association’s 2021 National College Health Assessment, 75% of college students reported experiencing moderate to severe psychological stress during the spring semester. Academic overload and lack of rest are obvious reasons. From January to finals, spring break is all students have and that barely offers relief as is.

That mindset is especially common among seniors, who see the week as less of a blowout and more of a moment to prepare for what’s to come. Career fairs, deadlines, and graduation prep are going to outweigh the appeal of a weeklong trip.

“A wild trip just doesn’t fit the plan right now,” said Jackson.

The movie style Spring Break isn’t disappearing, it’s just changing. For many students, the hype is no longer the goal. It’s about doing what’s needed to feel okay heading into the final stretch of the semester. Whether that means sleeping in, catching up on assignments, or just not going broke, the new version of spring break might actually be what students need most.

Wander & Wonder

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