Spring 2024 Vol.I

Culture Couture pg.48

table of Contents 06 The Votes AREN’T In

Is Chapman’s Political Pulse Dying?

By. Sukhman Sahota

10 Business is Blooming in OC By. Kiana Kalahele

A 1-Star Way to 16 RateMyProfessors: Choose Classes?

By. Brian Guevara

pg. 10 pg. 26

Freshman 15: Fact or Fiction?

22

By. Sarah Hart

Your Order Is (Finally) Ready By. Makenna Kunimura

Worrying About the Wrong First Class Study Abroad Students Find Problems in Choosing Courses

By. Marjorie Stemmler

26 30

Get in Line: Chapman Catching a New Dance Fever

36

By. Nicole Kavros

Breach the Peace The Collective Helps to Revive Chapman Music Scene

40

By. Sophie Wehrlie

Emma Kubiak is Trying to Keep the Party Going

pg. 40

44

By. Allie Leichter

48

Culture Couture

pg. 48

A New Beginning - Chapman Culture Clubs Strive for Acceptance By. Alexandra Der Boghosian & Sophie Wehrlie

for Gold: Chapman’s 52 Going Sustainability Olympics By. Holland Hatch

56 The Amazing Race

A Frustrating Process of Registration

By. Alexandra Der Boghosian

Freshman business major Angelina Golani is photographed on the cover Cover Photo by Nicole Kavros

60 What’s the Deal With Clubs?

By. Lauren Cavalieri

66 The Price of a Social Life By. Nicole Kavros & Dylan Nichols

Magazine Mavericks: 70 Chapman Student Voices on Fire!

By. Kiana Tanizaki

for Struggle or 74 Support Struggle for Support

pg. 44

Mixed Reviews on Chapman’s Psychological Services By. Holland Hatch & Lauren Cavalieri

pg. 60

STaff page Editors In-Chief

Sukhman Sahota

Marjorie Stemmler Managing Editor

Kiana Kalahele Social Media Manager

Senior Writer

Nicole Kavros

Brian Guevara

Staff Writers Sarah Hart

Allie Leichter

Holland Hatch

Sophie Wehrlie Dylan Nichols

Lauren Cavalieri Kiana Tanizaki

Makenna Kunimura Alexandra Der Boghosian

In AREN’T

The Votes

Student voters voicing their opinions on the 2024 election. Graphic by Sukhman Sahota

Is Chapman’s Political Pulse Dying?

By Sukhman Sahota

A

s the 2024 election approaches, sophomore Yness Riedel, a Democratic leader on campus, faces a challenging dilemma: She not only loathes Donald Trump, but she’s no fan of Joe Biden either — her own party candidate.

She’s not alone. Some students are questioning their participation in this election because there’s no one running that they want to see running the country.

ifornia Irvine allowed English Professor Matthew Goldman to see a clear difference between Chapman and other universities.

In his view, it’s because Chapman lacks a teacher union.

“People are very afraid to say or do anything here.

There’s no spark to kick it (political activism) off.”

-Professor Matthew Goldman

“At UCI, there is so much activism, and it’s modeled by the faculty,” he said. “We [UCI teacher union] go on strike if we’re pissed off, and UCI students see that.”

“We obviously hate Trump a lot more, but we hate Biden just Goldman explained rhetoric’s role and a potential reason for Chapman’s lack of poas much,” she said. litical protests or conversations.

It’s a critical election, and it’s led to many “It needs to be enacted in some way. Somestudent-led protests. But at Chapman? one needs to be saying something or get Where is the outrage that many other col- people to do or say something,” said Goldman. “People are very afraid to say or do leges are experiencing? anything here. There’s no spark to kick it Teaching a class at the University of Cal- (political activism) off.”

Senior Chapman Republican club member Michael Ricci believes the small student population and heavy workload may be another reason for the lack of activism amid an election year.

“It’s hard for students by themselves to get that kind of momentum,” said Ricci.

“That’s where clubs come into play.”

Traditionally at Chapman, Chapman Republicans and Chapman Democrats have Chapman Democrat’s Yness Riedel shares her thoughs on this year’s election. Photo courtresy of Riedel

Chapman Republican’s Kate Robinson expresses her plans to vote for Donald Trump. Photo courtresy of Robinson

played a prominent Riedel, the Director of Activism for Chaprole in the campus’s man Democrats, recognized Delany’s depolitical culture. sire for more election knowledge.

“I do feel an increase to try to get young people to vote. But at the end of the day, it’s just such an uphill battle,” said Ricci.

“People don’t know where to find these resources or where they can have discussions about it,” she said.

Riedel hopes to solve the problem by having more Chapman Democrats tabling in the piazza. However, her hope to make resources available may not unfold as exA few do have enthusiasm. It may shock pected. some Chapman students, but senior Chapman Republican club member Kate Robin- Chapman Republicans, who tabled a lot son is a devoted Trump follower. last semester, can speak on some of the struggles with tabling. Ricci, a transfer stu“Personally, I’m a Trump, Maga, American dent, recalled bringing a table in the midfirst type of Republican,” she said. dle of his past college campus to promote the Republican club.

Yet, she wants to see more efforts from her own party club.

But now, when Chapman Republicans tables, he only thinks “We should be pro- “I would like to see more about paperwork. moting Republican political information candidates,” she “I would feel more available.” said. “Because we pressure to get peo[Chapman Republiple engaged if the cans] have a range of -Sophomore Forest Delany school didn’t make viewpoints.” it so goddamn hard,” said Ricci.

Some students wish for more guidance, whether it comes from the clubs or the College students nationwide have protestschool. ed in response to America’s active role in Israel and Gaza. They are calling for Amer“I would like to see more political informa- ican officials to support peace and anti-war tion available,” said sophomore art history resolutions, according to CNN. major Forest Delany. “Maybe if the Chapman Republicans and Chapman Demo- Chapman has yet to see one student-led crats want to do that.” protest on the topic.

“I would feel more pressure to get people engaged if the school didn’t make it so goddamn hard.”

-Senior Michael Ricci Chapman’s administration has attempted to remain neutral when addressing Israel and Palestine in hopes of staying sensitive to all opinions. However, some students see Chapman doing more harm than good with this method.

Zoellner argued that there is “a pretty wide range of venues in which students are able to express themselves politically.” For example, writing an opinion piece in The Panther, starting a student publication, making your feelings known in the classroom, or putting up signs.

“A lot of the neutrality on campus is a direct reflection of Chapman’s neutrality,” Declan Coakley, senior political science said Riedel. major, added to the sentiment of students getting politically involved.

Yet, English professor Tom Zoellner discussed that the administration getting polit- “You can have a real impact if you get out ically involved there and add your voice to these organizaon behalf of the tions,” he said. school might become a “haz- But how do students get involved when ard” to the cam- they struggle to find candidates or organipus environ- zations they identify with? ment.

“People feel less represented than ever be“I don’t know fore,” said Goldman. that the national academic For now, Riedel has opted out of the c o nve rs a t i o n two-party system. Doing what she says is around the sub- “very American.” ject has been all that helpful,” “I know I’ve faced a lot of shame for sayhe said. “That’s ing, ‘I’m gonna be writing down a differnot what a uni- ent [third-party] candidate for my vote,’” versity is de- Riedel said. “But you’re supposed to share Chapman Professor Matthew signed to do.” your voice.”

Goldman shares some insight on protest rhetoric. Photo courtresy of Matthew Goldman’s website

BUSINESS IS BLOOMI IN OC

By Kiana Kalahele

Planet 13, a in Santa A

ING P

a well-known weed dispensary Ana. Photo by Kiana Kalahele

ulling out her government-issued I.D. to prove to the security guard that she was in fact 21 years of age, Chapman senior Layla Haymond stepped inside an elegant building, admiring the high-end items in glass cases. They looked more addictive to her than jewelry.

That artistic edifice was none other than a weed dispensary.

“Never would I have guessed that buying weed would be so luxurious,” said Haymond, a business administration major. “It felt like I was shopping at Gucci or Louis Vuitton.”

The Gucci doppelgänger Haymond visited is known as KUSHAGRAM, located in Santa Ana. It’s one of 117 OC licensed weed dispensaries that have been blazing a trail in the cannabis industry for Chapman students and many others alike.

After passing Proposition 64 in 2016, California is one of 38 states that have legalized medical marijuana and one of 24 states that have legalized the drug for recreational use for adults 21 years and older.

According to California’s Department of Cannabis Control (DCC), five cities in Orange County currently have weed dispensaries.

These include Stanton, La Habra, Irvine, Costa Mesa, and Santa Ana. The other 29 do not.

To combat that, some weed dispensaries do ship products to residents. For example, KUSHAGRAM delivers to places such as Anaheim and Mission Viejo.

And, it’s safe to say that consumers are pleased.

In the state alone, $5.9 billion in sales were made for legal recreational and medical marijuana in 2023, according to a study published by the MJBiz Factbook.

But, what makes these dispensaries even more addicting?

It’s not just the weed.

An array of edibles purchased from Blüm, a weed dispensary, in Santa Ana. Photo by Kiana Kalahele

Blüm’s infamous tree can also be seen from outside due to the large glass windows and by CA-55 freeway goers.

Haymond—who visits KUSHAGRAM almost weekly— enjoys the welcoming atmosphere of the store and always finds it easy to purchase her favorite products from either a self-service kiosk or a representative at the front counter.

“The floor looks like it’s fully made of marble and there’s beautiful abstract artwork hung up on the walls,” she said. “Plus, they always have my favorite pre-rolls in stock, so it’s a win-win.”

And, KUSHAGRAM isn’t the only dispensary like that.

Senior creative writing major Gavin Long has always been a huge fan of Blüm, formerly known as People’s OC, in Santa Ana for all of his THC needs.

Blüm is a candy shop for adults. Joints. Pre-rolls. Edibles in the form of both gummies and chips. Weed-infused drinks. Disposables. Just straight-up bud. You name it, Blüm has it.

Yet, his love for the store doesn’t just stop there.

“Obviously, my main priority is buying weed, but I just got to say that the funky decorations in Blüm really seal the deal,” said Long. “For one, there’s a huge fake tree in the store that extends from the first floor all the way to the top of the building. I have no clue why it’s there, but I love it.”

“A big reason why I started choosing Blüm as my go-to store for was solely because of how crazy that tree looked from the outside,” said Long.

Blüm customers are first greeted by a security guard who checks their I.D. and mentions any promotions taking place. Then, customers are able to choose whether they want to stay on the first floor or take the wooden spiral staircase up to the second.

The first floor features six self-service kiosks so customers can purchase their products and leave—all in a span of less than 15 minutes. A small lounge area with a few couches, chairs and a fluffy black carpet also takes up much of the space of the first floor, which Long’s

friend, Devin Chong, really enjoys.

“The kiosks downstairs are cool for people who are looking to get in and out, but I really like being able “The lounge is hands-down my favorto see all the vapes and edibles in the flesh before ite part of going to dispensaries,” said I buy,” said Long. “It makes the whole process a lot Chong, a junior business administration more fun.” major at Chapman. “And, the lounges aren’t just at Blüm. I think every dispen- And, senior computer science major Sarah Fieck sary I’ve been to has had one and they agrees. never kick you out.”

Leaving Santa Ana—known by OC weed fanatics as According to Chong, he’s sat in Blüm’s the ‘kingpin of dispensaries’—Fieck’s dispensary of lounge area for over an hour just to choice is located in Costa Mesa, known as 420 Cen“take it all in.” tral.

However, Long’s favorite part of the store is hidden on the second floor.

420 Central doesn’t just call itself a “cannabis megastore” for nothing. According to Fieck, they sell over 50 brands of weed products both in-store and online.

“There’s at least like 15 jewelry cases upstairs and they’re all filled with weed,” “The place is huge, it’s actually crazy,” she said. “And he said. “It doesn’t get better than that.” they’ve got everything from sativa to indica to hybrid products laid out on counters and in cases so you can On the second floor, customers are able easily see them all.” to peruse the different cases to decide what they want to buy. Then, they pull a Just like Blüm, 420 Central has a very similar setup. number from a small machine and wait From the small lounge to the security guard to the for the next available employee to help choice of using a self-service kiosk or speaking with an employee in order to purchase products. them make their purchase.

“Upon walking in, the store gives off a ritzy vibe for sure,” said Fieck. “But, it’s also a bit edgy. There’s some graffiti on the walls and these psychedelic-looking paintings, which do relate really well with weed culture.”

And, even though the store may give off that essence of luxury, the prices do not.

The layout of 420 Central, a weed dispensary, which is located in Costa Mesa.

Photo Courtesy of 420 Central’s website

“Normally, I spend $90 every time I go to the dispensary,” said Fieck. “While that may seem like a lot, I’m also purchasing multiple products at once. So, that $90 gets me a pack of edibles, some pre-rolls, and a

new vape cartridge for my Stiiizy.”

Just like Fieck, Chong also appreciates the cheaper prices and promotions that dispensaries offer to customers.

“The first time I went, I wanted to buy edibles that were $35,” he said. “The guy at the front gave me a 25% discount because I was a new customer, so I only ended up spending $25.”

Along with promotions and deals, weed dispensaries have also benefited the communities they operate in, particularly Santa Ana.

And, senior creative writing and communication studies double major Kari Lien also loves Santa Ana the most.

Considered to be California’s largest dispensary at 55,000 square feet, Planet 13 is a gold mine for anything and everything weed.

“Not only is Planet 13 humongous and always has everything I need, but it literally stays true to its name,” said Lien.

“The place looks extraterrestrial; it actually “Right now, Santa Ana has over 27 different feels like you’re on a cannabis dispensaries in the city and they’ve different planet when you’re been working out really well for the community inside.” so far,” said DCC Chief Information Officer Sean O’Connor. “There haven’t really been many - Senior Kari Lien complaints from the public either. In fact, these dispensaries have actually provided benefits Upon entering the dispensary, customers and additional revenue to the city.” are immediately engulfed by vibrant colors,

props, and displays, including a digital screen of sand from a beach display and another interactive screen featuring an 80-foot waterfall that customers can take photos in front of.

“There’s also a Volkswagen van in the store that has fake smoke coming out of it and there’s all these colored umbrellas hanging from the ceiling,” said Lien. “There’s even a gigantic octopus statue just located right in the middle of the dispensary.”

Customers of all ages—above 21, of course— flock from around the county to check out the eccentric decorations and get their weed fix.

Sarah Fieck (left) and senior Karla Carmona browse over Planet 13’s weed menu. Photo by Kiana Kalahele

“I’ve seen other college kids my age in there, but I’ve also seen a bunch of older men and women, probably in their 40s or 50s or maybe even 60s, shop there too,” said Lien.

It’s true.

According to statistics from Flowhub, the cannabis consumer base in California is made up of 19% Generation Z, 49% millennials, 18% Generation X, 13% baby boomers, and 1% silent generation consumers.

“These dispensaries are really for everyone,” said Lien. “I mean, who wouldn’t want weed? It’s great.”

Well, not everyone.

Junior business administration major Quincy Lee has never, and will never, smoke weed in her lifetime due to the long-lasting negative effects that it can have on an individual.

A map showcasing licensed weed dispensaries located in Orange County for customers to go to. Illustration by Kiana Kalahele

However, even with constant backlash, weed consumers in OC have only continued to grow.

“I like my lungs. I don’t want them to become faulty or die out early from smoking weed,” she To keep up with the popularity of the drug, said. “People in OC and across the U.S. are becoming addicted to a drug that is just going to end weed dispensaries may even start looking for new ways to keep their customers up hurting them more than helping them.” hooked—aside from wacky decorations and a variety of products.

Many other residents, like Lee, also worry about addiction and drug abuse that come along with smoking or using illicit drugs, with one of the top Luckily for them, Haymond already has a new idea in mind. ones being weed.

According to a 2012 study by the Orange County Health Agency—which surveyed 2,928 residents— marijuana is the most abused drug among adults in OC, with 33% of respondents reporting lifetime use of the drug.

“Unfortunately, I have yet to find a dispensary where I can toke it up inside,” she said.

“But once I do, I’m never leaving.”

By Brian Guevara

Illustration by Brian Guevara

A

typical RateMyProfessors review might this, for example publicizing Chapman’s go like this: own faculty evaluations by students? How valuable is RateMyProfessors?

“This man is the most inconsiderate person EVER…. and this man prides himself on To senior business major Gil Bothwell, it’s ‘real world experience.’ In the real world highly valuable. we can go to the bathroom whenever.”

“I live and die by RateMyProfessors,” said Or like this: Bothwell. “I’d do anything to avoid dealing with a bad professor.”

“The most caring professor I’ve ever had.

Yes, you have to work to get the grade.

Oh no! Your grade is your effort.”

Those were real. And, it might surprise you, the students were talking about the same professor: accounting professor Scott Anderson.

Student Gil Bothwell checks an instructor’s name on RateMyProfessors.

Photo courtesy of Bothwell

Professor Scott Anderson’s rating. He is rated 3.8 stars, despite three stars being the least rated value. Photo courtesy of RateMyProfessors

But, according to some instructors, RateMyProfessors isn’t as balanced as it seems.

Accounting professor Anderson, who has seen both praise and negative criticism said that, like with the popular reviewing website Yelp, people mostly go to RateMyProfessors when they have something bad to say.

RateMyProfessors is college students’ final word on whether they should take a professor’s class — or not. If they see something they don’t like, they won’t take the class under any circumstances. If they see raving reviews, they’ll fight for “Marketing classes always tell you that whatever it takes to get a spot. people will always share a bad experience, but not a good experience,” said Anderson.

But, some do question its credibility. “So, the information about professors will What if there’s a better way to go about be skewed negatively.”

All the options given by RateMyProfessors for students to describe the course they’re evaluating. Screenshot courtesy of RateMyProfessors

One of the recipients of a negative review school, loved her professor enough to write a is law professor David Berkovitz. He’s got RateMyProfessors review on her. amazing reviews, but also some that aren’t Others do too. Chapman professor evaluations very flattering. on the site contain hundreds and hundreds “Terrible professor, don’t take him if you of positive comments. want to fail,” said one anonymous reviewer.

Berkovitz isn’t the only one confused at that At the end of the day, though, it’s all Chapman review. “Worst professor I have encountered students have. It’s all they know. while at Chapman,” said another disgruntled But some say it doesn’t have to be. student.

“I don’t look at any social media because of reviews like that.

Course evaluations provide more feedback to me than anonymous reviews.”

Finance professor Terry Burnham has a different idea: Publicize course evaluations.

This way, students get opinions from those who felt okay about the class, hated it, loved it… every opinion under the sun. Not just the - Professor David Berkovitz group of students that felt passionate enough Berkovitz puts more stock into what students about a professor or class that they took free directly tell him, as opposed to online reviews time out of their day to write a review on an online forum. with no identity behind them.

But not all students send negative notes to Harvard University is ahead of the curve; it already has course evaluations publicly RateMyProfessors. available.

Freshman Makenna Kunimura, who took a college course her senior year of high Junior Jackson Kelm isn’t opposed to this,

thinking there aren’t any negatives involved. “I don’t really take writing course evaluations “It wouldn’t hurt for sure,” said Kelm. “The too seriously, and I’m sure other students don’t either.” more information, the better.”

But that isn’t the case at Chapman. Only the Senior business major Evan Fenley agrees professors and their superiors see course with Price on the negatives of course evaluations, and believes RateMyProfessors evaluations. is still the best option: “You just gotta know Professor Anderson loves the idea, and goes how to read them.” as far to say that the administration is failing That may be the answer. to share this information on purpose.

“It seems like we have so many bad professors that the administration is embarrassed.”

- Professor Scott Anderson Dean of Students Jerry Price believes differently, saying that course evaluations are no better than RateMyProfessors.

“In principle I see what he’s saying. On RateMyProfessors it tends to be the extremes, and that’s not true in course evaluations,” said Price. “On the other hand, course evaluations are still susceptible to subjectivity.”

Price recalls a time that he read his course evaluations. One student said he always came to class prepared, while another called him disorganized.

Kelm believes that public course evaluations, while useful, still come with their flaws.

“The Secret Syllabus,” written by Jay Phelan and finance professor Terry Burnham, goes over the subjectivity of finding a professor that’s right for you.

Graphic courtesy of the Princeton University Press

Screenshots of RateMyProfessors reviews all of the same instructor: Scott Anderson. Graphic by Brian Guevara

“The reader will look for the evaluations that are key to what they want to get out of the course,” said Anderson. “The same review can intrigue one student and turn off another.”

No system will be perfect, the dean of students points out.

“People saying a professor is good or bad isn’t reliable. It’s too subjective and is at the whim of whatever’s bothering the student that day.”

- Dean of Students Jerry Price Evaluations can be read two different ways.

For example, Bothwell, as a cross country and track athlete, has limited time to do homework. So, he considers a professor that gives busy work to be “bad.” But others may find that same style of teaching to be exactly what they need.

So it turns out that the first two reviews aren’t saying the same thing after all. If read closely enough, it’s the same teaching style, expressed differently.

So who are these Chapman professors getting raving reviews? English professor Jan Osborn got a 4.8 out of 5 RateMyProfessors review.

“She brings an exceptional energy and passion to every class and works extremely hard to make each student feel welcome and appreciated.”

Most students will be glad to hook up with a 4.8 professor.

Illustration by Sarah Hart

W

By Sarah Hart hen Sophie Cook committed to Chapman at the end of her high school senior year, she couldn’t help but think about what the director of her hip hop crew had said to her.

widespread, but should incoming freshmen be worried? According to Tracy Bryars, ChapHer director liked to talk about what would man professor happen to dancers who went to college. Ac- and registered cording to him, they would become lazy and dietitian, the rugain weight. A lot of it. mor has very little truth to it.

And when Cook’s best friend went to college during her junior year of high school, he was “It’s definitely proven right. largely folklore,” said Bryars.

“When she came back [home], a lot of peo- “There’s been ple had a lot to say about it,” said Cook, now a lot of studies a freshman biology major at Chapman. “I on it. Basicalwatched that happen, and it became a fear ly, the ultimate of mine.” findings were that Sophie Cook shares her experience with the Freshman 15 on average [new phenomenon. Photo courtesy of Fear of the infamous Freshman 15. college] students Cook gain about three The rumor is, college freshmen are sup- pounds. And only nearly about 12 percent of posed to gain 15 pounds their first semester students gain 15 pounds or more.” away from home.

Maddie Ishii, a second-year student at OrThe reality is, only very few college students ange Coast College, recalled how the rumor gain weight to that degree. The larger issue that she might gain 15 pounds influenced her is that fear of gaining weight causes issues behavior going into her first year of college. surrounding mental health and confidence, especially with incoming freshmen.

“I was nervous to eat, I was nervous to do any sort of exercise,” said Ishii. “I didn’t want While the concept of the Freshman 15 has to gain any sort of muscle weight.” been around for much longer, this nationwide rumor first gained traction in 1989 after Other students, like freshman and business the publication of the article “Fighting the administration major Mia Schneider, noFreshman Fifteen” in Seventeen magazine. ticed how the fears of weight gain manifestAccording to the article, weight gain in col- ed with other freshmen. lege is an inevitable reality for freshmen due to drinking, unhealthy eating habits, and a “I know the first week or so of college there lack of exercise. were so many people in the gym,” said Schneider. “There were a lot of girls at the Rumors of the Freshman 15 seem to be treadmills.”

“When I’m getting ready to go out with my friends, I guarantee that three out of six are gonna be like, ‘Oh my god, I feel so bloated tonight,’ said Cook. “Girls usually dress less concealed when going out. If we’re going to be wearing that, we’re obviously going to think about [our bodies].”

Cook also talked about how communal dining has drawn her attention to disordered eating habits among her peers.

“A lot of my friends [only] eat a salad every single night,” she said. “I know it’s not that good.”

Maddie Ishii’s behavior her freshman year was affected by rumors she might gain 15 lbs.

Photo courtesy of Ishii

She also brought up the fact that she hears about things like the Freshman 15 on social media. Namely, Tik Tok.

Freshman dance major Yazzy Picazl agreed that eating dinner in the dining hall every night with her friends has opened her eyes to her classmates’ eating habits. She also added that she notices a lot of negative self talk among other freshmen, especially at mealtimes.

“I’ve heard them talk about their thighs and “I think one Tik Tok that I saw was like, how they’re really big, or their stomach and ‘There’s this workout routine you can do to a how it’s really bloated. They say that all the Cardi B song to counteract things before you time,” says Picazl. get that Freshman 15!’” said “I’ve been working out for a year Both Picazl and brought Schneider. now, and I still feel like I could Cook up that while look better.” there is a lot According to of pressure on Bryars, peer reyoung women to viewed studies -Freshman Gordon Lin maintain a cermaintain that there is only a tain weight and to look a cersmall percentage of individuals that gain 15 lbs during col- tain way, they also think there are also a lot of issues surrounding men’s body image as lege. they enter college as well. Especially when it Still, first-years are experiencing a newfound comes to going to Yazzy Picazl noticed a change in sense of bodily insecurity. the gym. her peers’ eating habits. Photo courtesy of Picazl

“Bulking up is something “I was nervous to eat, I was nerthat kind of develops like vous to do any sort of exercise.” body dysmorphia, I think,” says Gordon Lin, another freshman and business -Sophomore Maddie Ishii administration major at Chapman. “I’ve been about it,” Kardy said. working out for a year now, and I still feel like I could look better, I could work harder, According to Bryars, there is evidence that I could be more consistent.” supports the idea of how women are impacted by disordered eating more widely than Still, Lin pointed out that he thinks rumors men. Still, that is not to say that men cannot like the Freshman 15 disproportionately af- be affected. fect girls more than boys.

“About 30 million Americans will have an “I heard [about the Freshman 15] from…a eating disorder at some point in their lives,” girl friend of mine. Even a lot of the girls said Bryars. “According to the National Eatfrom back home that I know, they’ve talked ing Disorders Association, about 20 million about being afraid of the Freshman 15,” he will be women, and 10 million will be men.” said. “I think there’s less pressure for guys and more pressure for girls.”

Professor Bryars preaches balanced meals and regular exercise in the nutrition class Lin’s friend, freshman and business admin- that she teaches. Most importantly, she tells istration major, Drew Kardy, agreed with them what to do if they think that they or him. someone they know is experiencing disordered eating.

“From my perspective, I feel like girls are a little more insecure than guys are. Especial- “The first step would be to go to their advisor, ly here, with all the sorority stuff. If it doesn’t or to the health center,” she says. “Chapman go your way, people kind of get in their heads has a lot of amazing resources in that way.”

According to Bryars, support is key to helping someone take the first steps towards getting help for disordered eating.

Nonetheless, students like Cook have been able to experience growth in a new environment with new people and opportunities.

“Even though that pressure was put on both me and my best friend, we’re both doing fine,” said Cook. “We’re living life. We’re both healthy and happy.”

By Makenna Kunimura

Photo by Kade McKenna

S

cuffing her feet, huffing and puffing, freshman Rhyley Pruitt is exasperated while speed walking to her class.

She is late because her iced coffee got lost in the Starbucks mobile ordering line.

Pruitt isn’t the only one whose drink has gone into the mobile order void.

“It’s annoying waiting for that long,” Pruitt said.

The Chapman campus Starbucks recently had a glow-up with its new renovation and new mobile ordering system. Starbucks officials say it’s great. But do their student customers say it’s great?

Making a mobile order. Graphic by Makenna Kunimura

Not so much.

Students don’t approve of the long lines, long waits, and inconvenience of the Starbucks app. You also can’t use Panther Bucks while mobile ordering. Authorities claim that there has been no negative feedback since the new renovation and students are really enjoying the new additions added.

But is this really the case?

One of the most popular places on campus that students utilize their Panther Bucks on is Starbucks, but Panther Bucks are not used through the app. This is a big complaint from many students, especially freshmen.

“It’s so unfair,” Reddy said. “The whole When asking students about the inconve- point of having Panther Bucks is so that we nient and provoking phenomenon that can use it at Starbucks.” the campus Starbucks has caused, a look of desperation to rant about this topic Since Starbucks is one of the only places filled everyone’s faces. Asking the simple, on campus students can get coffee, some yet, burning question of: “What are your students are outraged. thoughts on the campus Starbucks?”

“There’s a lot of rush hours so when I need Students sighed. Shook their head. And be- to get to class and can’t wait in line it’s so gan to rant. annoying that we can’t use our Panther Bucks while mobile ordering,” said Anna “Waiting for a mobile order here takes too Nguyen, an undeclared freshman. long,” said junior communication studies major Kajal Reddy.

Rodney Reed Sodexo spokesman.

Photo by Makenna Kunimura Not according to Hannah Lee, a sophomore health science major at Chapman who used to work at the Starbucks on campus.

“I stopped working at the campus Starbucks in October,” Lee said. “I didn’t like the work environment there.”

Not only are the students complaining about the mobile ordering system, workers also expressed grievances.

Another concern from students is the fact that anyone could take any item from the mobile order table. This table is packed with items. There’s a lot of trust that goes into picking up orders at Starbucks.

“On the first day the mobile ordering system was introduced it was absolute chaos and people didn’t even get their drinks,” Lee said. “I walked in and there was a big ass line and people crowding the mobile or“Starbucks is the biggest honor system,” der section. I preferred when we didn’t have Nguyen said. “There’s always so many drinks mobile ordering.” on the mobile app table. I feel like they need Lee did not enjoy her time while working to change the system.” at Starbucks but two things really made her On the other hand, Rodney Reed, the Res- experience dreadful. ident Direct Manager of Sodexo University Services, claims that students are loving the “I might have enjoyed working there more new additions added to the campus Star- if we actually got tips,” Lee said. “The bigbucks.

“Our new mobile ordering system has been really well received by students and a great addition. I can’t think of any cons about our Starbucks here on campus,” he said.

Reed attested that the baristas are enjoying their time while working.

“It’s almost like being a bartender, the faster they go the more fun they have. The workers actually enjoy being busy,” he said.

Uh, would the workers back that up?

Out of stock items in mobile order line. Photo by Kade McKenna

gest issue was being thrown off my groove when customers asked ‘When is my drink going to be ready?’ Especially when we were in a rush, it was so annoying.”

bucks union workers and their perceived support of Israel, some college students across the country are boycotting Starbucks. Trying to put pressure on the company economically.

Other workers, surveyed informally? Not a lot “Walking around campus with the Starbucks of barista enthusiasm. logo on my cup makes me feel uncomfortable because of the significance of this issue,” said “Well, it’s not the worst job in the world,” said junior business major Emily Paris. one barista.

Junior Sukhman Sahota agrees with that senAnd another. “Working here is fine. I guess.” timent.

One damper to their enthusiasm is that so many customers come in bunches that they often break the rules. Especially hitting Starbucks between classes.

“I tell myself not to get Starbucks because I’m willing to make my life a little more difficult if it means I’m not supporting this huge issue,” Sahota said. “It can be hard, but you can’t forget the reason you stopped going.”

“Last semester I waited for like 25 minutes after my pick up time for a drink but I needed to Despite those protests, the Chapman Starget to class,” Pruitt said. “I had no choice but bucks continues to be a busy place. But some to grab someone else’s drink from the table.” just want to see its service improved. Until then, students like Reddy still need their cofStarbucks insists it’s right in the success of the fee. new system. But the students who disagree come in bunches. Said undeclared freshman “The lines are long but I will still go,” she said.

Sofia Robe: “Literally anyone you ask here is going to have something bad to say about not being able to get your drink before classes. It takes longer to get your mobile order than it is to get your order if you waited in line.”

Another issue Starbucks has to deal with: After recent controversy surrounding Star-

Illustration of student stressed from Study Abroad classes.

Photo courtesy of Aixian Wiriadinata.

By Marjorie Stemmler

E

very year, hundreds of Chapman students dream of taking classes across the world. For Emma Walker, a sophomore peace studies major, she finally got her chance.

After waiting over a year, Walker finally took her first steps in Scotland for her Study Abroad program. The stress of waiting was finally over.

Or so she thought.

Walker knew where she was going, but had no idea what classes she’d be taking.

“I had to wait two weeks [in Scotland] not knowing what my classes were,” said Walker.

This sentiment isn’t just a Walker issue. Multiple students deciding to study abroad have had a similar experience with feeling left in the dark about what classes they’ll be taking. With enough stress from the move itself, students wish there was an easier and quicker way to get their classes ready to go before their bags are even packed.

But one problem: The staff at the Center for Global Education, say they’re helping as much as possible. But with few staff and so many applicants, class schedules sometimes get less priority.

“We oversee hundreds of students who go abroad and we’re an office of like, a little over ten people,” said Angelique Acuna, an administrative assistant at the Global Center, and a former Study Abroad student herself.

Even so, student applicants can find it frustrating.

For Walker, she’s been packed since kindergarten, stating that her mom went to Semester at Sea, and she’d be following in her footsteps.

“Study Abroad was not an if, it was a when,” said Walker.

So when Walker finished the paperwork and bought her plane ticket she was ready to go, but her classes were not. After sending in her requests for her classes to be approved by Chapman, she got back crickets.

“I sent nine classes to get approved, and they only approved three,” said Walker. “The first week I only had one class that worked for me”

After picking Chapman for th gram to Japan in high scho than prepared to fly across t possible.

Walker’s classes weren’t finalized until the 18th of January, ten days after classes started at the University of Glasgow.

But Chapman wasn’t as speed

While it may seem like a middleman moment for Chapman to have to approve classes, this is because they have to make sure the classes fit into Chapman criteria, and if they aren’t approved, students do not get credit.

Ashlyn Catuna, a senior communications major, had almost the exact same problem as Walker when taking her Study Abroad trip to Japan back in her junior year.

Sending in her classes to ge Catuna didn’t hear back un was already in Japan. She had to get any attention.

“My dad had to email Chapm three to four times,” said Cat her, she says almost every stu from Chapman had a simila cation.

For Catuna, getting these clas preference.

“I had a tight set schedule fo get four classes that go with wouldn’t have been able to gr

This wasn’t just Catuna’s issu also said this was in issue b weren’t accepted, they’d be f demic program.

Ashlyn Catuna in the streets of Tokyo during her Study Abroad trip. Photo Courtesy of Catuna.

Catuna, Walker, and all Stud to Chapman through their Ce tion. This is where anyone i learn more about what Stud start the process of traveling

heir Study Abroad proool, Catuna was more the country as soon as

dy.

et approved in October, ntil January, when she d to resort to her father

man after I emailed them tuna. And it wasn’t just udent that was in Japan ar issue with communi-

sses was more than just

or graduation, if I didn’t h my Japanese minor I raduate,” said Catuna.

ue, students like Walker because if their classes far behind on their aca-

dy Abroad students talk enter for Global Educainterested can not only dy Abroad is, but also g overseas.

Emma Walker meeting a new friend during her Study Abroad trip to Scotland.

Photo Courtesy of Walker.

“The first week I only had one class that worked for me” - Sophomore Emma Walker Acuna of the Global Center said the process has to be a team effort.

“Students submit their global request forms online and we send it over to the registrar for approval,” said Acuna. She also included how the heads of departments will also be tied into the process, if neither the registrar or Center for Global Education are sure a class is equivalent at another university.

Acuna understands the stress of waiting for approval, but says her staff does as much as they can with their small size.

Acuna says the only way the center’s staff can help students is if the student reaches out to them, and they’ll be there on the double. But without communication, the center won’t know if there’s an issue.

Christine Yu, a junior film production major, had problems herself with classes, but with the school she was going to attend, not Chapman.

Christine Y trip. Photo

Yu, currently in Greece for her Study Abroad program, said she had trouble when her new school gave her an old catalog to look through, having her send over a request to Chapman for approval on classes that no longer existed.

“The university in Greece didn’t offer any catalogs for the spring semester, even though I was studying abroad then.” Said Yu. After getting sent back a barren approval form, she knew she had to start over, but to not blame Chapman.

“There’s only so much Chapman can do,” said Yu.

Acuna says that even if the problem isn’t on Chapman’s end, that students can still reach out to the Center of Global Education to help.

“We have a contact with all programs that we can talk to. So we may not know particular people or programs but we have one person who we can email and ask to check in on that student,” said Acuna.

But, not every student’s Study Abroad classes gave them such a stink.

Michael Cheng next to a new friend while studying abroad in Australia. Photo courtesy of Cheng.

River Gayton, a senior strategic and corporate communications major, says her class approval went as smooth as could be.

Yu in Greece During her Study Abroad o Courtesy of Yu.

“I would say the class approval was pretty easy,” said Gayton, after she studied abroad in Italy last year. “I sent some classes and backups and got everything approved.”

Michael Cheng, a junior electrical engineering major, said the same thing about his process with getting classes checked off.

“My Chinese teacher told me about a class she was offering over the summer and I’ve always wanted to study abroad so I decided to go,” said Wiriadinata.

No matter a travel course or study abroad, every student has had nothing but amazing things to say about their program. Even with the stress, studying abroad is a must for many.

“It’s still worth it, even through all the stress,” said Walker. “Once everything is figured out it will all fall into place.”

“It was pretty smooth,” said Cheng, while currently on his Study Abroad program to Australia.

“Not all classes I sent got approved, but it still worked out.”

While it seems like class approval can be a toss up, if a student still doesn’t want to go through the hassle, there is an alternative: travel course.

A travel course is similar to studying abroad, but instead of a semester, a student can go during interterm or the summertime for around three weeks. And the best part, there’s only one class to take, and it’s already picked out for you.

Aixian Wiriadinata, a sophomore accounting major, explained how they took a travel course to Taiwan after not being able to study abroad.

Aixian Wiriadinata walking around Taiwan during her travel course. Photo courtesy of Wiriadinata.

GET IN

LINE O

nce Kayleigh Gilbert hears the scuffing of boots sliding across a hardwood floor and the tangy tune of her favorite country song, she becomes someone else.

That’s the power of line dancing.

Chapman Catching a New Dance Fever!

By Nicole Kavros

“It makes you feel so empowered,” said Gilbert, a sophomore business student and Orange County native.

Line dancing has been leaving its boots all over Chapman’s campus. It’s now common for students to storm their local

At a line dancing club, perfect strangers turn to dance partners.

Photo by Nicole Kavros

line dancing club every week. InCahoots in nearby Fullerton, the most popular line dancing spot in the area, even changed its age limit to 18 to profit off the massive college audience.

The entry fee alone is $20 a person, but these shindig-loving college kids won’t hesitate to lay down the money.

The sport is even big enough to start a club dedicated to teaching Chapman students more dances.

Gilbert, who founded the new line dancing club, first discovered the activity shortly after her 18th birthday. A tradition among her high school peers, she explained that country line dancing for Orange Country teens is on par with milestones such as learning to drive or taking the SAT.

Brian Guevara is not a line dancer. But he still loves to go to line dancing clubs. Photo by Brian Guevara

where to go, when to kick, and how many times to stomp. They’re so perfectly in tune with the blasting beat of the gritty country sound.

Gilbert just had to round up a crew to help get her club off the ground. And with the amount of students who line dance, she When she decided to go to Chapman, she had no problem finding interested parties. was still within close proximity to all of her favorite line dancing clubs. She found that She’s already hosted a successful first line dancing culture at Chapman was just meeting for the Stompin’ Boots club, where as big as it was at her high school.

12 enthusiastic members showed up to “It makes you feel so good once you know [the dances]. And once I realized that, I was like, I need to know all of them. I need them to play the ones I know,” said Gilbert.

She’s not wrong — when a song comes on that people know, it’s like watching chess pieces glide smoothly across a board. Everyone knows Chapman student Emma Gould loves to dance with her friends. Photo by Nicole Kavros

learn a new dance.

Gilbert is enthusiastic for the future, and is brainstorming ways to advertise future meetings. She knows that with the amount of students who flock to InCahoots every Wednesday night, her club will be expanding in no time.

“I always have a smile on my face when I am at my local country bar, and that’s how I know I always want to go back.”

-Senior Sammy Johnson Line dancing is a sport unlike any other.

There’s an uncountable number of dances, each set to different songs ranging from classic country to contemporary pop or ‘70s disco.

The dance floor is often packed at InCahoots line dancing club. Photo by Nicole Kavros

The dances even have different variations depending on where you’re doing it.

One can’t help but wonder what makes line dancing such an integral part of Chapman culture. Is it the catchy songs? The hustle and bustle of it all? The fact that you don’t need a fake ID saying you’re twenty-one to get inside?

Or, as Gilbert said, is it just the entitlement that comes with storming the dance floor once your song comes on?

Senior journalism major Brian Guevara doesn’t even line dance. He said the reason he first went to a club was with his friends, to see what all the hype was about. The reason he keeps going? He loves the atmosphere.

“I like the vibe. It’s like people cosplaying cowboys,” said Guevara.

Line dancing culture feels like entering a different reality. Everyone’s dressed up, and somehow, everyone knows every dance.

“I don’t actually line dance very much. I know one or two variations,” confessed Guevara.

“But, I love watching.

It’s fascinating.

It’s like watching Dancing with the Stars.”

The energy that line dancers have is

C K B

Many line dancing clubs also offer bars for customers over 21. Photo by Nicole Kavros

contagious. It inspired Gilbert to teach herself line dances from YouTube in her room. It has Guevara putting on flanneled shirts and cowboy boots. The way it spreads across the dance floor is strangely captivating.

It’s the line dancing fever.

There’s a sense of community that builds in these clubs. Junior public relations and advertising major Nicolette Surabian, a dedicated line dancer who knows 45 different dances, has met some of her best friends while on the dance floor.

are part of a community. It’s a space where people can be themselves, let loose, and find camaraderie So maybe it’s less about “I think line dancing has become popular the dancing and more about who they’re among students because the dancing is just dancing with. so fun, and there’s songs and skill levels for everyone. It’s one of the best hobbies and “It combines three of my favorite things: ways to really connect with people,” said country music, friends, and dancing,” said Surabian.

Johnson. “I always have a smile on my face when I am at my local country bar, and Senior applied human physiology major that’s how I know I always want to go back.”

Sammy Johnson shares a similar connection to the activity. activity.

“What makes me continue to go line dancing are the people I’ve met and the freedom I feel when I’m dancing. I’ve met and made so many of my close friends while going out line dancing,” she said.

The people that line dance

Chapman students (from left) Emma Farris, Kathryn Treat, Caroline Maltz, and Matthew Becker damce and sing to music off the dance floor at InCahoots. Photo by Nicole Kavros

Breach The Peace

The Collective Helps to Revive Chapman Music Scene

Photo Courtesy of Where's West?

Instagram

By Sophie Wehrlie

T

he murmurs of excited students fill the living room as the guitar shrieks electrically and the kick drum pounds rhythmically.

Until, a knock on the front door. The cops.

The crowd trickles out, along with all hope for student-based live music.

of them say, at least we have The Collective.

“Chapman and the Orange County community really suppress us, especially with the noise ordinance.”

-Freshman Jackson Chapman

The Collective, a club that highlights the struggling arts on campus, has filled that hole for many.

Collective membership is free and open to all. The club itself works under a collective structure, meaning that all members

“Chapman and the Orange County community really suppress us, especially are able to participate on with the noise ordinance,” Collective projects. claims freshman Jackson Chapman of TomFoolery.

The Collective hosts concerts, art displays, and The Orange County noise community events that enordinance restricts live mu- courage participation in the sic performances and house arts. Chapman students do shows past 10 p.m., accord- not need to have an artistic ing to Noise Control Ord. major in order to be a part No. 2700. Despite having a music program at Chapman, a lot of the students feel the music scene within the community is being stifled.

But, some of them say, at least we have The Collective.

of the club; its presence on campus serves to support all artists.

The other choice: the dreaded city curfew.

“I understand why the restriction is in place, but I do feel that Orange specifically is overly strict,” said junior Kaylee Scott. “It is hard to have events that don’t go past 10 p.m. because most concerts usually run late anyways, that is just the culture of the music scene.

I wish there was some sort of compromise we could come to, maybe having a later restriction on weekends or something.”

With this ordinance in place, there is an empty void within the Chapman community. But, some Senior Tobey Lynn performing at Flower Moon. Photo Courtsey of Lynn

Due to such tight restrictions, Chapman musicians have to look off campus to find OC venues, which proves to be a struggle in itself.

“It’s very hard to play shows around Chapman. Venues are so far away, the

"Without The Collective, there wouldn't be a music Originated in 2019, The Collective’s intentions scene at Chapman."

have remained the same.

Highlighting underrep- Chapman Alumni SIMYA resented artists within the community and widening the art scene at closest one is 15 minutes Chapman. away, so it’s hard to ask your friends to make the drive Whether it be through inand then pay the admission. teractive visual art exhibits, I wish we could play more student businesses and venhouse shows. It’s a classic dor pop-ups, or concerts at way to see a college band,” local OC venues, like the said senior West Hauser of upcoming Flower Moon at Where’s West. the Garden Amp in Garden Grove.

So where do you turn as a hopeless musician, itching Chapman provides opporto play a show? tunities for artistic expression throughout on campus That’s why The Collective events such as Storytelling has become so important to with Video for Academics many on campus. or the Summertime Concert Series. However, stu“We owe a lot to The Collecdent musicians still report tive- they’re the only people a lack within the communiwho promote live music at ty’s music scene.

Chapman,” said senior Zan Curleigh of Where’s West.

“Without The Collective, there wouldn’t be a music scene at Chapman,” said SIMYA of JustRosie.

The current co-presidents, Jackson Gefen and Alden Ianelli, both having passionate and professional pursuits within the music industry, joined the club as freshmen.

Co-President of The Collective Photo Courtesy of Jackson Gefen

Co- President of The Collective, Courtesy of Alden Ianelli

Collective through Instagram and Ianelli discovering them through a fellow Chapman musician, neither knowing the roles they’d end up obtaining and the mark they’d leave on so many student lives and careers.

Many artists credit The Collective for their ultimate success on campus.

“We owe a lot to people like Alden and Jackson who want to make this happen.

They gave us our start,” said Hauser.

The Collective has taken it upon themselves to provide a creative space for those seeking solace.

“If they aren’t giving you the opportunity, you have to do Gefen recalled finding The it yourself,” said Ianelli.

Photos Courtesy of The Collective Instagram

EMMA KUBIAK IS TRYING TO KEEP THE PARTY GOING By: Allie Leichter

Friends gather around Emma Kubiak (center) while she plays her new synthesizer on Friday, Feb. 16, 2024.

W

alking into a dying party, junior film production major Emma Kubiak instantly knew what she needed to do to turn things around. Setting up her Pioneer DJ deck and speakers, Kubiak threw on her headphones and got right to work.

As soon as the music played, heads shot

mouth, Kubiak has become a popular choice for Chapman students to perform at their gatherings.

However, not everyone is fully on board yet with the whole DJ scene. Some students have been unamused by the sudden emergence of student DJs. “It’s become an oversaturated market. Too many people are trying to do it,” protested senior film studies major Graham Hammond.

But even Hammond is impressed with Kubiak’s mixes, which made Hammond change his mind.

“I really like it because it sounds like she’s trying to do something different,” said Hammond.

up andJasmine pointed their(center) way towards Kubiak.

Seniors Williams and Camille Brimmer (right) dance

along to electronic music in Joshua Tree at a temporary outdoor venue last May. Other students

With the music drawing them closer one track at a time, soon Kubiak had the entire party raving around her.

Speakers blasting and sunglasses on, Kubiak had her hands do the talking.

One house performance at a time, Chapman DJs have stirred up the dynamics of the college party scene. Currently, Chapman has seen a rise in its DJ population. Stepping into most house parties, you will find Emma Kubiak to be the one mixing on the tables.

Gaining attention through word of

ed

the

have appreciataccessibility of the music.

“A lot of people are getting into it who aren’t necessarily musicians,” stated freshman film production major Benoit Boudreau.

“It’s creative and it’s cool, so I respect it.”

Starting at $159, the Pioneer DJ DDJ200 deck is a common DJ deck that students are starting to get their hands on to start their own mixing.

“I’m kind of surprised that a student made that,” admitted freshman

film production major Nicole Pas- vorite spot for creating new music. to after hearing a track of Kubiak’s.

Clicking immediately from the moEmma Kubiak makes her own tracks ment they met, music has been the by mixing together her favorite songs, main foundation of the two’s friendship. and adjusting tempos and beats. She claimed her best track ideas come Other people close to Kubiak have felt to her at the “most random places. her deep connection to music too.

After being gifted her very own deck by her grandmother, Kubiak un- “We’ll be in the supermarket, and she’ll hear a song, and immediately think of something else to mix it to,” shared Chapman graduate and long-time girlfriend Holly Fontanetta. “It’s just insane.”

For Kubiak, the most important part of her process is experimenting and allowing herself the freedom to let loose.

Emma Kubiak sets up her DJ deck at a party in Orange on Sunday, Dec. 17, 2023.

“Don’t take yourself too seriously,” Kubiak reminded.

“Everyone is falling into that lately”.

Kubiak’s main purpose with her work is to emphasize expectedly found herself falling in that in a creation, there is still the crelove with mixing her own tracks. ating: “There’s so many people where I think it would change their life if they Taking no days off, Kubiak prac- let themselves work more carefree.” ticed on her deck every morning with best friend Nate Penner, junior psychology major, who walked over to her house just off campus to join her.

“We spend gether,”

hours doing recalled

that toPenner.

Speakers and DJ deck spread out across the covers, Emma’s bed was their fa-

Photos By Allie Leichter

Seniors Franco Picache (front) and Zohar Varadi (back left) dance to Chapman DJ mixes in Joshua Tree last May.

Juniors Tahsis Fairley, Sophia Alloggiamento, and Ali Flynn (from left) enjoy the music in Joshua Tree last May.

Culture Couture

By Alexandra Der Boghosian and Sophie Wehrlie

Illustration by Alexandra Der Boghosian and Sophie Wehrlie

D

raped in the Chinese history of the Lunar New Year, dawning a red outfit with gold undertones and surrounded by a group of peers dressed similarly, sophomore Judy Pan embraces the feeling of unity and acceptance around her.

recognize the holiday but don’t know the true meaning of it or why it is celebrated.

“I feel like outside of club social media, oftentimes people either don’t know about our celebrations or what they are,” said Moorthy.

However, as she walks through the piazza dressed in her gorgeous red kimono, peer- The feeling is widespread among other culing eyes follow her. tural groups, such as She’s never felt less un- Neena Matharu shows off her detailed lace the Asian Pacific Club, derstood.

South Asian Club and for Diwali. Photo by Sophie Wehrile Iranian Student As“I feel like not everysociation. one would understand what’s going on – ac“I wish there were ceptance comes from further resources understanding,” said people could turn to.

Pan, president of the It’s hard seeing celeChinese American Stubrations also watered dent Association. “If down into palatable there’s not enough unone-liners (such as derstanding of what’s “festival of lights”) going on, they might when there truly is a be judgmental about rich history and mywhat you’re wearing, thology behind our because this is not what cultural event,” said people see everyday.”

Pan. Traditional fashion among cultures not only reflects the folk stories and symbolic color schemes, but also pride and family from past generations. But there is concern by some cultural clubs that they don’t get proper respect from the greater student population.

Whether true or not, it seems to be a common theme among the cultural clubs on the campus. South Asian Student Association (SASA) member Roshnee Moorthy elaborates on how she feels perceived by her peers and how many students may

Similar to some of SASA’s cultural celebrations, the Iranian Student Cultural Organization celebrates Persian New Year in March. In Persian culture, the new year focuses on spring and rebirth and lasts for 13 days.

“We buy and wear new clothes, we spring clean our houses, we visit our extended family, and we set up a traditional table called the haft-seen, haft meaning seven and seen meaning the letter ‘s’,” said senior computer science major Ponthea Zahraii.

Despite the lack of understanding felt on the main campus, most cultural clubs feel right at home within the confines of the Fish Interfaith Center.

through generations. Freshman Seychelle Singh proudly stands amongst her friends at the university’s Diwali celebration in Fall 2023.

“We work really hard to let student groups There is a smile on everyone’s faces, feeling lead out and to educate and to include,” said hopeful and pride in their culture.

Director of Fish Interfaith Center Nancy Brink.

“As different as the outfits may be, they’re all going to be colorful and expressive in In addition to Brink, Student Government their own way. Even though they can look Association (SGA) President Rachel Berns, very different, it’s what connects us when also makes it a priority to support cultural we attend these events,” said Singh. “It ties groups on campus. us to our roots, but it also ties us to each other.”

“SGA is absolutely committed to am- Senior Lily Sheybani attends the annual Persian The celebration New Year event.

Photo by Dylan Nichols plifying DEI efis heavily interforts across camtwined with the pus, and wants to fashion of the see all students holiday. Intricate of diverse backstyling, technical grounds thrive embroidery, and while at Chapextensive beadings man,” she said. dawn each student that is present at Berns also enthe celebration of courages students light and life. in cultural groups to voice their conExtravagance of cerns to SGA if the colors and they face any challenges on campus regard- the jewelry are a reflection of what Diwaing inclusion. li is about- good over evil, light over darkness. The Fish Interfaith Center provides “We will certainly do our best to advocate students with the opportunity to celebrate for change that will bolster a more accept- their culture, in a safe and accepting enviing and diverse campus community,” ronment.

Berns said.

“It’s lovely to have another group of people Amongst other cultural clubs, SASA often to celebrate with. A group of Indian stuhosts celebrations on campus, specifically dents at Chapman. It’s really wonderful, in Fish Interfaith Center. Pinks, reds and like family away from family,” said SASA yellows embroidered coat the Fish member, computer sciecne major Kalyan Interfaith stage, draped in the elegant In- Fernande. dian fashion that has been passed down

Anjali Solanki (Left), Roshnee Moorthy (Center), Neena Matharu are drapped in traditional Indian clothes for Diwali at Chapman.

Photo By Sophie Wehrlie

Going F

Chapman’s Sustai

By Hollan

I

n the coldest months of winter in Southern California, junior math major Ryan Joshi shivered in his Chapman Grand apartment in hopes of conserving energy.

He was on his way to winning Chapman’s 2023 Ecolympics. And a bit of cash.

“I wanted to prove something,” said Joshi.

The Office of Sustainability at Chapman hosted its second annual Ecolympics event at Chapman Grand this past fall.

This competition encourages students living in Chapman housing to practice environmentally friendly habits in their daily lives. This year, the challenge for the event was to reduce energy usage.

Junior Ryan Joshi cold and shivering to win th

The winning floor was promised a hefty prize: $50 Amazon gift cards to every resident.

Jenny Kaufman, Director of the Office of Sustainability. Photo courtesy of its website

However, not every student - winner or loser - was as dedicated to the challenge

For Gold

inability Olympics

nd Hatch

Enthusiastic lightbulb. Graphic courtesy of Luke Votzke

“I actually didn’t even know it was happening.”

- Sophomore Nicole Kavros

“I actually didn’t even know it was happening,” said sophomore English journalism major and Ecolympics winner Nicole Kavros. Kavros admitted that even if she had known, she wouldn’t have made the effort to participate.

But she must have sustainability in her blood. She won anyway.

he contest. Illustration courtesy of Luke Votzke

“When we won I was so shocked,” said Kavros. “Literally every time I leave the apartment I leave the air conditioning and the lights on.” After all, the bill wasn’t hers to pay.

as the Office of Sustainability may have hoped.

Kainani Tacazon, former Office of Sustainability employee and Chapman alumSome didn’t know what they missed until ni, spoke of the wastefulness of students it was over. when it comes to energy usage.

The Ecolympics are an opportunity to get more students involved at once through their partnership with Residence Life.

During the fall 2022 Ecolympics, when the theme was water conservation, Residence Life took to Instagram to advertise the event. This profile leveraged over 3,000 followers, about 2,000 more than the Office of Happy electrical plug. Graphic courtesy of Luke Votzke Sustainability’s own Instagram.

“Students don’t pay any utility bills,” said Tacazon. “They can use as many resources as they want without realizing it.”

Bust still, it doesn’t seem enough to get the students’ attention.

Or caring?

“Our resident advisor didn’t say anything about it ever, not even after we won,” said Kavros.

Jenny Kaufman, the director of the Office of Sustainability, acknowledged that for most students, living in Chapman housing is their first two years living on their own.

Area Coordinator of Grand, Alex Hart, also admitted the shortcomings of the partnership for this past fall’s event.

“This is an impressionable time to build habits for future living situations in which we aim to create many entry points to sustainability,” said Kaufman.

“I didnt really do anything,” Hart said.

The Office of Sustainability provides resources year-round on environmental topics and sustainable living through newsletters and tabling on campus. The Ecolympics event is a particularly important period for outreach and education.

Tacazon admitted that the Sustainability Office is so small that it’s difficult to address an entire campus with such limited resources.

Junior Ryan Joshi. Photo courtesy of Joshi

“The Office of Sustainability did all the work.”

Nonetheless, Chapman Grand still saw a decrease in energy consumption over the course of the fall 2023 semester. The winning second floor reduced their energy usage by 1,706 kWh. To put that into perspective, it takes about 0.5 kWh to air fry some chicken.

That’s a lot of chicken the second floor gave up to win the Ecolympics.

“I didn’t think I would make a difference because I’m just one person,” said sophomore political science major Brandon Mahgerefteh.

The Office of Sustainability hopes to deflate this common misconception that one person’s actions don’t matter.

Clearly, a little bit of shivering from Joshi made a big impact.

Chicken isn’t the sole key to reducing energy consumption. The Office of Sustainability advertises simple adjustments such as turning down the heat in the shower, shutting off the lights, and decreasing the use of heat and air conditioning as effective ways to reduce daily energy use.

“I didn’t think I would make a difference because I’m just one person.”

-Sophomore Brandon Mahgerefteh

Graph comparing the energy usage of various daily activities in kWh. Graphic by Holland Hatch

By Alexandra Der Boghosian

Junior Talar Kazanjian thinking about future class register at Chapman.

Illustration By Alexandra Der Boghosian

J

Junior Jessica McCrorie

Photo courtesy by Jessica McCrorie unior economics and political science student Talar Kazanjian feels her heart against her chest, sweat rolling down her neck.The walls start closing into the room. Her head is throbbing with frustration and anger.

Time to register for classes. For Kazanjian, always a headache.

“It feels like a game of chess,” she said.

Many students at Chapman find that class registration is too complicated. From adding your classes to the shopping cart to validating them, and then learning that many of the courses you want to enroll in are already waitlisted, can be frustrating.

And now, there’s even more to do. You have to get a permission code just to enroll in those waitlisted courses.

flict and confusion students have about their program evaluation and planning their courses.

This is the normal rollercoaster of emotions when trying to register for classes.

Just when you think you are ready to click “I recommend that if you meet with your the enroll button, you notice the big red X marks, indicating that the class has already advisor in person, follow up with an email in writing to make sure you and your advibeen filled. sor are on the same page with everything you discussed, The main issue here: not enough classroom space for Chapman’s growing student Cobb said. “Keep it for your records so that you can review it if any issues arise,” Cobb population. said.

“We do our best to accommodate students Similarly to Cobb’s advice, junior business in these situations. We are still navigating the best way to make changes to make the administration student Andrew Shahinian opted to create his own to-do list to help process less complicated,” said Danielle Cobb, assistant registrar at the Office of the combat the stress of class registration.

Registrar.

“I had a very complicated and stressful registration process during the Fall 2023 seCobb emphasized how crucial it is for stumester that really affected the start of the dents to meet with their advisors prior to semester for me. I needed a permission their registration dates to avoid any con-

Junior Talar Kazanjian reflects on her past class registeration experiences. Photo by Alexandra Der Boghosian

code for one of my classes that was already filled and getting the code wasn’t easy,” Shahinian said.

In Fall 2022, Chapman welcomed 2,083 first year students and 1,808 students in Fall 2023, according to the Office of Admissions. However, as Chapman’s student population increases, class registration becomes more stressful as classes get waitlisted quickly.

“I have to take certain required classes to graduate, however I’m scared that they will be filled up,” she said. “The small class number makes it difficult for students to have a chance.”

Nevertheless, many Dodge College students don’t share the same frustrations.

Junior screenwriting major Jessica McCrorie has yet to feel the same stress that other majors feel during the registration process.

“I think the class sizes are good. Usually, the classes where we workshop scripts are no bigger than 12 students. This allows for the professor to get to know you and your writing style, and give valuable feedback,” said McCrorie.

“Many people I know in my program have had a complicated process when registering for classes. I always try to meet with my advisor weeks before registration, as well as plan my classes ahead of time. This allows me to ask questions on things I am Classes in Dodge College have a different way of being structured. They are focused confused about before my registration much more around students’ portfolios time,” Shahinian said. or reading through each other’s writing Among Shahinian, junior communication pieces, whereas other majors lean more studies, advertising, and visual journalism towards lecture-based classes and group student Kajal Reddy Padi also shared the discussions. Therefore, the stress during the registration process differs between stresses that she experienced during her majors. first year registering for classes at Chapman.

Classroom sizes have the ability to influence a student’s grade, by having that “When I was a freshman, it felt like there was no one to guide me,” Padi said. “I requality time with professors and the conalized my registration date was scheduled tent being presented. For senior screenwriting major Jordan Smaha, her expelate which meant all the classes I wanted rience with large lecture courses made to take were gone, and I was struggling to grades play a crucial role. find classes because they were all taken.”

Now as a junior, the stress is still there for Padi.

“Unless it’s a class solely focused on writing, I have been in very large classes for lectures and other major-required courses.

It does make it a lot more impersonal and I don’t find myself as engaged as I do in the smaller classes,” Smaha said.

Similar to Smaha’s process, Cobb also emphasizes how students must be prepared for conflicts or issues when it comes to registering for classes.

“The program evaluation is your road map to finishing your degree. Check it often! Take screenshots after you register. If something changes or there is a glitch in the system, contact our office immediately,” Cobb said.

On March 25, the Office of the Registrar released a statement regarding permission codes, which are used a lot during class registration. According to the statement, students can no longer request permission codes to get into classes if the course is already waitlisted or closed.

University Registrar Annette Casas thinks students should still sign up for the waitlist during registration, just in case a student drops the class and space becomes available. If that is the case, students on the waitlist will be immediately enrolled into the class depending on their number on the waitlist.

However, permission numbers will only be taken into consideration if the student has consent from the instructor, has not yet completed the prerequisite for the class or if the course is restricted to only specific majors and minors outside of the student’s major or minor.

“The process is ever changing,” Cobb said. The perfect registration process doesn’t exist, complications will always come up. However, it is up to students to prepare, plan ahead and reach out to advisors before their registration time.

To Do List Before your registration date - Meet with your advisors weeks in advance to prepare before your registration time - Be Proactive - Check your registration appointments - Build your shopping chart and validate your classes - Ask for help as soon as possible to avoid conflict - Breathe! Trust the process.

Courtesy of the Office of Registrar

What’s The

Deal With Clubs?

Cole Raber (pictured, left) has mastered several kinds of juggling to run a club at Chapman. And it’s not just him.

By Lauren Cavalieri

O

n a warm Friday afternoon, foam balls, clubs, and silk scarves scatter the grass near the Anderson Tennis Courts - meaning Chapman Juggling Club is in session.

One thing not there is a slackline. Club president Cole Raber wanted one but learned it would violate the school’s risk management policy.

“It’s just one of those things, where, you know, it makes sense on paper,” said Raber, a sophomore psychology major. “But it is frustrating.”

For many students, club life on campus is often hindered just by the difficulty of running one. Between bureaucratic funding, the Student Organizations team’s rules and students’ other responsibilities, club folk sometimes have difficulty developing bonds with like-minded people the way Chapman promises.

Chapman’s Student Government Association, or SGA, funds all clubs registered under Chapman’s Department of Student Engagement. To apply for funding, a club must submit an application through Chapman’s official student organization management system, Engage. The request then goes to an allocations committee for review.

If the ask is over $1500, it goes to the

organization's full Senate for a vote.

Is that bureaucratic enough for you?

According to the SGA website, the organization’s budget (which comes from the undergraduate Student Activity fee) is “utilized by student organizations, campus departments, Rachel Berns, President of Chapman’s Student Government Association. Photo courtesy of SGA’s website

individual undergraduate students, as well as put towards campus-wide projects that aim to enrich the Chapman experience for all.”

But maybe “all” is a relative term.

Brian Guevera, president of the Basketball Club and senior English journalism major, describes SGA’s process as “restricting.”

Last September, he wanted to schedule the club’s meetings at a local 24 Hour Fitness. The gym gave him a contract asking for $1,600 for six months of reservations.

But by his account, SGA only covers reservation expenses on a per-meeting basis.

Rachel Berns was sympathetic towards students’ difficulties. “If there are institutional issues that student orgs are facing that are hindering their success, SGA can be an advocative resource for that.”

Hannah Wells (right) was hesitant to charge members of Disciples on Campus for T-shirts.

Photo courtesy of Wells

“You just couldn’t do...a one (time) payment of $1000,” Guevara says. “Those specific rules have really hindered our ability to operate as a club.” He now pays venues out-of-pocket and charges every non-member who shows up an $8 fee as reimbursement.

However, roadblocks clubs experience are not always limited to money.

Clubs often face red tape from Student Organizations, a team that handles nonfinancial club matters such as registration, event planning, and advising student leaders.

Sabrina Vallderuten, a junior business administration major and president of Chapman Animal Care and Volunteer Club, has had problems hosting bake sales to raise money for local animal shelters.

“I think the policy has changed because of student protests. None of us really liked it.”

Hannah Wells, a junior peace studies major and president of Disciples on Campus, recalls SGA’s former policy for printing club T-shirts. Today, they are free and SGA - Junior Hannah Wells reimburses their production costs in full.

But at one point, she had to sell them to members. SGA collected the money and Why’s that? If a club has a bake sale on returned only the profit. campus - the easiest way to get students’ “I think the policy has changed because of attention - they have two options per Student Org policy. They can collaborate with student protests,” she says.

Sodexo, Chapman’s official catering com“None of us really liked it.” pany, or get pre-approved to arrange plans When it comes to finances, SGA President with a different caterer.

“(SGA is) pretty open and upfront about everything, but it’s still a lot to manage, a lot to keep on top of.”

Matt Onufrak, junior TV and production major and vice president of sketch comedy troupe Father’s Milk, said, “We have to talk to SGA, get everything approved, go through all the processes…they’re pretty open and upfront about everything, but it’s still a lot to manage, a lot to keep on top of.”

- Junior Matt Onufrak

Problems are not limited to Chapman administration alone. College students have countless responsibilities, and often extracurriculars can fall down the priority ladder.

In that case, they can only buy pre-packaged items for under $250 total, tax included.

Emma Kotler, a junior creative writing “That’s kind of a difficulty that we just major, got caught on the other side of work around,” Vallderuten said. that phenomenon. She joined the Sociology Club near the end of her freshman Berns notes, however, that these rules and year to “branch out and expand” socially, regulations are there for good reason. but nothing came of it.

“I do imagine they are implemented by the University based on matters pertaining to law liabilities, safety, risk management, and beyond,” she said.

Even when clubs don’t run into specific issues, however, they still struggle to make sure they have everything in check.

Emma Kotler was dissapointed that the Sociology Club rarely met in person her freshman year. Photo courtesy of Kotler

“I would get emails from them, but they would never meet,” Kotler says.

“It was just kind of annoying.”

Or take the Triathlon Club. Ben Alvarado, a junior directing major, remembers joining it at last semester’s involvement fair.

He said the sign-up form had a “long list” of names and the president claimed they’d compete in a real triathlon.

Velez, they have board meetings on Sundays, tabling on Wednesdays, general meetings on Thursdays, and off-campus outings every other weekend.

APSA also hosts a festival every spring called APIDA that costs roughly $14,000.

But, again, that never happened.

“I was like okay, dope. And then I never heard anything back,” he said.

Even though money doesn’t directly influence these scenarios, it can be a big motivator. The Diversity and Cultural Clubs are both well-funded and known for their

While SGA provided some of that, APSA didn’t have to rely solely on them like other clubs. The Cross Cultural Center helps fund Diversity and Cultural clubs.

APIDA’s co-chair, senior business major Jessica Miyasato, also points out APSA offers camaraderie you might not get

Chapman APSA during a meeting in Feb. 2024.

Photo courtesy of Chapman APSA’s Instagram

thriving communities despite their member’s busy lives.

The Asian Pacific Student Association, or APSA, keeps in constant contact.

According to their co-president Reese

through basketball or sociology.

“A cultural club tr(ies) to provide a feeling of home for students of color, or students not from America,” the senior business major mentioned.

Arisa Trombley likes Juggling Club because it gives her a break between long coding assignments, but admits the organization has had its issues. Photo by Lauren Cavalieri

juggling for an hour,” she said.

But once again, money talks - and helps clubs stay active.

“I remember last semester we didn’t get as much funding from SGA and stuff for clubs, and this year it’s a lot better,” Trombley recalled.

With that funding, the club is planning its first official show and is scouting student performers.

But certainly not every Chapman club is either Triathlon or APSA. Many are somewhere in between, like the Juggling Club. They meet Fridays at 4 p.m., and by 4:45, almost everyone is already gone.

But many students like this casual atmosphere, such as Arisa Trombley. The senior computer science major is a talented acrobat who uses the meetings to prac tice handstands and tricks.

“It’s like a perfect break between my coding assignments and stuff. I’ll just be coding for hours on end and then I’ll just go

Even with all the roadblocks, it helps for passionate students to remember why they love clubs to begin with.

“In college, I don’t really have the time to be doing the things I used to be doing,” said Trombley. “It’s like a way for me to keep in touch with that side of me.”

By Dylan Nichols and Nicole Kavros

A popular weekend activity for students is going t every student can participate. Graphic by

T

here are days when Kiana Kalahele has to choose between buying groceries for the week or hanging out with her peers.

While all students have found a way to pay the university’s fees, many students can’t keep up with the costs of a Chapman social life.

The school doesn’t offer financial aid for going out with friends.

“It can feel a little belittling when Kiana Kalahele feels that Chapman’s social my friends say, ‘Let’s go out and eat culture can be too expensive. Photo by Kalahele at Thai Towne’ or something in the Circle,” said Kalahele. “I’m like, ‘I’m gonna pass, I’m gonna go eat a piece And for some students, the impact of of bread and cheese at home for my a private school campus doesn’t land dinner.’” until they actually walk through the gates.

Everyone knows that Chapman is an expensive private school — with “People are buying coffee every day. tuition costing $87,730 a semester, And I have to only buy coffee maybe including housing. But what many once a week to be able to pay for students don’t consider is how wealth essentials,” Kalahele continued.

“People are buying coffee every day. And I have to only buy coffee maybe once a week to be able to pay for essentials.”

-Senior Kiana Kalahele

A bite to eat in the Circle can mean having to pick up an extra shift at work or skipping out on buying groceries for the week.

Third-year Nick Rodriguez also feels a disparity in what he can afford compared to what other students are spending.

“I see people driving around in very nice cars and wearing very nice disparity among students affects clothes,” said Rodriguez. “And I see social standings among peers. lifestyles where it seems like they don’t really have to worry about

to Los Angeles... but not y Easton Clark

seen how differences in economic backgrounds can impact how students settle into their Chapman life.

The Chapman parking lots are full of expensive cars owned by students. Photo by Dylan Nichols

“It usually happens a couple of weeks [into school], students are like, ‘I’m kind of tired of caf food. Let’s go down and have dinner at Citrus City [Grille].’ That’s when [students] realize, oh, I can’t do that,” said Price. “And so these connections that are starting to form have this complication that some people can do it, and some can’t.”

Price doesn’t blame the students with anything financially, and they kind of just money. But he does point out where are able to spend their parents’ credit card.” compromises could be made.

While a lot of students come from money, not all of them do. Over half of the student population is benefitting from an average financial aid package of $45,515 — just over half the price of tuition.

“I do hope that part of their experience would be, ‘You know what, there’s some people I really like and care about, [that I] like spending time with, who can’t go to those places, so we should find something else,’” said Price.

That means that more than half of Chapman students aren’t in the class who can afford It’s not a crime to be rich. It’s not the students’ fault if their parents have money. brunch in the Circle every weekend.

But there are ways to make sure that wealth Sophomore health science major Emily doesn’t become a social hurdle for people Tapay is a resident advisor at Chapman. She trying to make friends. says that this, along with her scholarship, help her pay the basic costs of the school. Coming from a “A lot of students come from wealthier families, so they get that financial support from their parents — which not everybody has,” she said. “Which makes it harder for those students to go out with their friends as much. Like, I went to the caf for lunch with my free meal plan.”

Dean of Students Jerry Price has

Senior Nick Rodriguez is another student who feels the effects of wealth disparity among students. Photo by Dylan Nichols

more comfortable when it comes to these things.”

Kalahele knows that if she’s with her close friends, they’ll understand her situation. It’s not expected for her to be able to eat out every time they want to see each other.

On the other hand, with so many expensive food Pricey restaurants like The Filling Station occupy most of The Circle. options available Photo by Nicole Kavros right next door, it’s hard to find family that became wealthy only later on an alternative hangout activity. And not in his life, junior creative producing major every student is so cognizant of the wealth Michael Rosario tries to be conscious of the disparity. financial situations of those around him.

“I definitely have a different perspective on things and how to go about things to make sure everyone feels included,” said Rosario.

“I always try to make sure everyone’s a bit

“I see lifestyles where it seems like they don’t really have to worry about anything financially, and they kind of just are able to spend their parents’ credit card.”

-Junior Nick Rodriguez

“With people I don’t know that well who want to hang and go out for dinner, I’ll say I’m sick so I don’t have to go, instead of telling them, ‘I can’t go because I can’t afford it,’” said Kalahele.

What might seem like a small decision to some — what restaurant to try, where to spend a Saturday evening — can set a precedent for four years of social isolation.

The feeling is there, whether it’s intentional or not.

“There is rich culture here on campus; it isn’t talked about a lot, but it’s here,” said Kalahele.

Chapman Magazine Mavericks: Student Voices on Fire!

By Kiana Tanizaki-Hudson

A

lways a fan of the free-flowing magazine Fever Dream Zine, Sarah Hart, a sophomore dance and journalism major, knew that’s something she wanted to be a part of.

And she finally got that shot.

“I’ve always been interested in the arts, so getting to write about something I love allows me to share something I’m passionate about and have fun,” said Hart.

like a magazine, is a shorter and self-published piece of work. Chapman has an eclectic community of magazines, which gives students an outlet to write about what interests them. These publications put their names on the map to possible job opportunities and experiences.

Chapman’s students provide their own number of platforms for aspiring writers and publishers to showcase their work and engage with a diverse audience interested in literature and the publishing industry.

Hart isn’t the only one who enjoys expressing themselves through writing. A “zine”, Here is a look at four of the publications:

Photo courtsey of Fever Dream Zine

2. The Rage Magazine 1. Fever Dream Zine

Hart gained an interest in “zine writing” during quarantine. She started reading Gen Z publications to feel connected to people who are going through the same thing and have similar interests.

“I applied a few times to a couple zines, but it wasn’t until Chapman that I made connections with Angie.”

Photo courtsey of The Rage Magazine That would be Angie Mitilian, sophomore, co-founder, and editor-in-chief at Fever Dream Zine. The Dodge College senior urged Hart to write for the online publica- Sophie Wehrlie, a Chapman Junior, runs “The Rage Magazine” an online fashion tion.

magazine started less than a year ago. It highlights a diverse and rich variety of “I got a lot of opportunities to work with a styles and fashions at Chapman and the lot of artists at press conferences, learning OC area.

so much. It just gives me an edge and opportunity to get my name out there,” said “I started it because there were surprisingHart. ly no fashion magazines on campus, and it Their journey is characterized by a commitment to innovation and diversity, with students actively embracing new perspectives in whatever they are interested in to push the boundaries of traditional publishing.

was a medium I knew I wanted to explore,” said Wehrlie.

The magazine boasts a rich tapestry of student contributions, each injecting their own ideas into the pages. This collective effort infuses the publication with a distinctive Gen-Z coding, capturing the spirit Hart wrote about rising artists like Leith of the current generation.

Ross on his American Tour.

The Rage’s latest issue contained advice on Join-May Silvers the Editor in Chief for Ougender conforming plus size fashion and roboros shared how the magazine aims overcoming awkwardness in college. to provide an outlet for artists to push the boundaries of imagination.

“Because sometimes it takes a moment from another world to better understand our own,” said Silvers The magazine is filled with horror, fantasy, paranormal, science fiction, and magic.

Fish Young, a sophomore, Design Editor for Ouroboros, and writer for Calliope, another Chapman magazine, was so excited to see a science fiction medium on campus.

One of the 2023 Issues of The Rage Magazine. Photo courtsey of The Rage Magazine’s Instagram

3. Ouroboros

Photo courtsey of Ouroboros

Ouroboros is a student-run Chapman magazine that is home to creative expression and imagination. According to the magazine, the ouroboros is an otherworldly serpentine creature that is depicted across several ancient mythologies and showcases that beginnings and endings are inextricably intertwined.

“Ouroboros is a relatively young publication at Chapman but it is definitely developing. and now developing to make a podcast to have more modes of publication inside and outside of Chapman.” said Young.

One Ouroboros author wrote a graphic poem about death and love, titled “The Crow Who Took My Bones”

Ouroboros’ December 2023 issue cover. Photo courtsey of Ouroboros’ website

4. Calliope Calliope is the oldest Chapman magazine that has been around for decades. Tyler Edwards, the editor- in- chief for Calliope, expressed how immersing oneself in someone’s artwork is an invitation, guided by a hand in a place that they never knew existed.

“Each work of art, poetry, and fiction in the issue provides something new to experience. It invites you to connect.”

All editing is done by students. Young said, “It ensures the school a voice. Chapman’s voice. Guided by Chapman students where we can amplify ourselves.”

John Nielsen, a journalism professor and faculty advisor to The Panther, expressed how it’s not easy making a living as a writer today. He shared how getting published while in college definitely makes it easier to land that first job when you head into the real world.

“Writing is a superpower. Students who learn how to tell a story powerfully in college are more likely to succeed professionally, no matter the career. Some people may try to tell you otherwise. Those people are fools.” said Nielsen.

Professor John Nielsen shares some insight how publishing in college can help writers in the future. Photo courtsey of John Nielsen

Calliope’s Fall 2023 issue cover. Photo courtsey of Calliope’s Website

John Neilsen expressed his thoughts and personal experience about getting published as a student.

“It’s not an easy thing to make a living as a writer. That was true when I set out to be a journalist, and it’s even truer today. But it can be done. Getting published while you are in college definitely makes it easier to land that first job when you head into the ‘real world.’ Getting published constantly is even better. Forty years ago, an ink-stained editor at The LA Times put it this way when I asked him for advice: ‘The secret’s simple, kid. The secret is to relentlessness.

The secret is to keep those stories coming through the transom with terrifying regularity.’”

Young expressed “Our magazines aren’t just publications; they’re revolutions in print, showcased on worldwide platforms, amplifying our voices and visions to the world.”

Support for Struggle o

Mixed Reviews on Chapma

By Holland Hatch an

Students waiting outside Chapman Psychological Services Office. Graphic courtesy of Chapman Psychological Servic

A

t the most difficult time in his life, Brian “I never heard from them again,” said GueGuevara reached out to Chapman’s Stu- vara, a senior English journalism major. dent Psychological Counseling Services.

But here may be the crux of the problem: Someone from its staff responded prompt- Too many students, not enough counseling ly, providing an entry survey and saying staff. the office would get back to him soon to match him with a therapist.

Chapman’s Student Psychological Counseling Services, located across Glassell Street And then: silence. from the main campus, offers assistance for students’ mental well-being. Both with

or Struggle for Support

an’s Psychological Services

nd Lauren Cavalieri

ces

counseling and therapy ses- the average waiting time for students on sions. the waiting list has dropped from 22 days to just over five.

Every semester the staff sees between 650 and 800 Still, not every student is happy with the students, a high demand services. But it is this negative feedback for a small office staff. With that Kami wants to hear. limited resources, not every student receives the atten- “Tell me how I can make it better,” said tion they need.

Kami.

Andrew Kami, the director of the services, is aware of the disappointments of some students. The office has experienced much development since he joined in 2019 shortly before the COVID-19 pandemic.

Senior Brian Guevara. Photo courtesy of Guevara

Kami addressed that 80% of 122 respondents on the psychological services feedback survey strongly agreed that their experience had been positive. However, these responses only reflect a fraction of the total number of students that utilize the services every year.

Meredith Heika, a Chapman alumni, got “We’ve made the help of the services in 2019, but felt a lot of chang- disappointed in the lack of help her theraes since I’ve pist provided her. been here,” said Kami.

“I didn’t like the therapist at all. I was uncomfortable going to her,” she said.

Over the past three years, The therapist recommended her to a psydespite an in- chologist on campus who prescribed her crease in stu- Lexapro. dent demand, The psychologist and prescription helped,

but the earlier experience still stuck with her.

clinicians for counseling. Counseling is provided through the end of each semester. Every semester, students must repeat the entry process to continue using the services.

“It felt like I was a burden The shortening turnaround time to match and she didn’t students with the help they need has been want me there very beneficial for some. at all.”

Arjun Rao, a junior data science major, Lillian Holm- started therapy through the service this berg, a past fall. He falls under the majority of stuAndrew Kami, Director of the s o p h o m o r e dents who received help within two weeks Psychological Services. Photo biological sci- of his initial survey from the office. courtesy of its website ences major, was similarly “For me, I feel disappointed with her therapist. like it’s been perfect,” said After bringing up a practical request, ac- Rao. cording to Holmberg, her therapist became angry with her.

Rao was paired with During this interaction, Holmberg had to a therapist raise her voice to put her therapist “into he continues line.” to meet with regularly.

“You should never have to do that with somebody that’s in a higher power,” said S h a n d o n Holmberg.

Obregon, a junior politiThe psychological services office hosts cal science Chapman Student Pyschological Counseling a staff of 10 in addition to eight graduate major, also students that are supervised clinicians. had a positive experience with the counselStudents can walk into the office or reach ing services, but recognized he has peers out through their website to request help. with opposing viewpoints.

After completing an entry survey, students are paired with one of these therapists or “I felt kind of crazy that I had a good time,”

said Obregon.

The services continue to have their limitations in what they can do and provide for students.

This became apparent to Marjorie Stemmler, a senior English journalism major. When Graph of the services waitlist from 2021-2023. Graphic by Holland Hatch she admitted the severiKami said that the psychological services ty of her feelings to her therapist, she was directed to seek help are doing the best that they can with the from some- resources they have. one outside of Guevara never had the opportunity to meet Chapman. with a therapist from the services. In fact, “I feel like they even after several professors reached out can only do so to the services on his behalf, he received much,” said no response.

Stemmler.

Guevara was instead assisted directly by For safety rea- the Dean of Students Staff at the Office of sons, the ser- Student Affairs, the office the services opvices are re- erate under. stricted in the cases they can Guevara’s final review: “It was the lowest handle.

For point of my life and they just weren’t there this reason, for me.”

g Services Office. Photo by Lauren Cavalieri

sent to outpatient treatment.

some dents

stuare Kami knows the services have not been perfect, and never will be for everyone, but they can continue to strive for it.

“There are certain things we shouldn’t “Not every restaurant has five stars,” said manage,” said Kami.

Kami.