Volume 51 Issue 20

The Independent Student Newspaper of the University of Toronto Mississauga since 1974

Issue 20 Volume 51 March 10 2025

themedium.ca

WHY LINKEDIN IS THE BEST SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORM

THE CHALLENGES WOMEN FACE IN RESEARCH

WHAT MAKES SOMEONE GREAT?

I hadn’t used social media much prior to 2020 for the simple fact that I wasn’t particularly social. This changed when I learned about LinkedIn in early 2020. I was told LinkedIn differed from the other social media platforms because it served a practical purpose and could connect me with users based on relevance to our professional lives, as opposed to just friends.

On February 27, the Department of Historical Studies hosted a panel discussion through its Feminist Lunch Series online via Zoom. The discussion, titled “Critical Approaches to Gender Equity, Diversity and Inclusion: Community-Led Research, Training and Solutions,” took place at noon and lasted until 1:30 p.m.

Greatness refers to someone who has made meaningful contributions to a field, is hard-working, or has pushed the boundaries and left an impact on the world. When it comes to films and the arts scene, it is about the recognition and legacy someone leaves behind.

FEATURES

DeerHacks: 36-hours of innovation, connection and inspiration Gisele Tang Associate Features Editor

Madhav Ajayamohan Features Editor

D

eerHacks is the University of Toronto Mississauga (UTM)’s largest annual hackathon that lasts over a 36-hour period where participants form teams throughout one weekend to build a piece of software according to a given topic.

In an interview with Henrik Zimmermann, the president of DeerHacks, and an interview with this year’s winners of the annual hackathon, The Medium has learned the story behind the evolvement of this event, as well as the winners’ experience.

Photo by Julius Henriques and Andy Hunag

SPORTS

NEWS

Heads held high as Eagles season comes to an end

U of T’s Governing Council declares studentseat winners

Evan Mowder Contributor

Celesta Maniatogianni Associate News Editor

B

O

oth the men’s and women’s basketball teams were in action on Sunday, March 2, playing in the Tri-Campus League semi-finals – one win away from getting back to the championship game.

In what has been an up and down year for both the men’s and women’s teams, the chance to change the narrative with a championship berth had shifted the energy amongst the players.

Comeback falls short as men’s team faces defeat The men’s team faced off against rivals University of Toronto Scarborough (UTSC), where playoff history is nothing new. Having played each other in each of the last three post seasons, it felt poetic for them to face off yet again.

Having lost by only one point against Scarborough last year, the Eagles were looking to right their wrongs and get their revenge.

n February 21, the University of Toronto (U of T) Office of the Governing Council announced the winners of the 2025 Governing Council elections. The Council, a key part of U of T’s governance structure, is a senior governing body responsible for overseeing the University’s academic, business, and student affairs.

The council comprises internal members of the university, such as teaching staff and students, as well as external members, such as alumni. Eight seats of the council are reserved for students, who must be elected.

The winners of the two seats of Constituency 1, which is composed of all full-time undergraduates in the St. George campus’ Faculty of Arts and Science and U of T’s Mississauga (UTM) and Scarborough campuses (UTSC), are Albert (Zhonghen) Pan, with a vote count of 449 votes, and Rishi Shah, with a vote

count of 551, who both successfully ran against 38 other candidates from all three campuses.

Meeting the incoming Constituency 1 representatives In an interview with The Medium, both winners spoke about their efforts and plans before and after the Governing Council election and campaigning period.

Albert Pan is currently in his second year, studying for a major in biology for health sciences, and minors in education studies and English. During his campaign, he said he was “all about putting students first.”

He is planning on advocating for U of T to put more money towards student initiatives and looks forward to bringing a voice representing UTM to the Governing Council.

02

NEWS

Editor | Samuel Kamalendran news@themedium.ca

Experiencing Caribana at UTM: A cultural celebration brought to life by the IEC Sameera Muna Contributor Students gathered in an event filled with festive food, decorations, music, and activities celebrating Caribbean tradition.

O

n February 25, the University of Toronto Mississauga (UTM) the International Education Centre (IECEC) transformed the Student Centre’s Presentation Room into a lively hub of Caribbean culture for the Trinidad and Tobago sixth edition of Dinner and Dialogues, an event designed to commemorate and explore global traditions.

This vibrant celebration, rooted in the Caribbean’s rich cultural history, is a fusion of African, Indigenous, and European traditions, showcasing the island’s diverse heritage and commemorating the ingenious determination to survive amidst the horrors of slavery.

the IEC brought the music, dance, and dazzling costumes of the vibrant cultural event to UTM, giving students the chance to experience this festive spirit without travelling far to witness the fun and tradition that the carnivals bring.

Every year, thousands of people from across the globe flock to Carnivals to witness the explosion of colour, music, and dance, making them truly international events. Beyond the spectacular costumes and rhythmic beats, Carnival holds deep cultural significance, symboliz-

From the moment attendees stepped into the Presentation Room, they were immersed in the sights, sounds, and flavours of Trinidad and Tobago. Feathered hats, inspired by the elaborate costumes of Carnival dancers, added a touch of authenticity to the evening.

The air was filled with the rhythmic beats of soca and calypso music, transporting everyone to the streets of Port of Spain. Guests were treated to a menu featuring Trinidadian staples such as juicy jerk chicken, rice and peas, pineapple punch, and other flavorful Caribbean delicacies.

Hosted by the IEC, Dinner and Dialogues is a recurring event that brings students together to celebrate and engage with diverse cultures. Each edition focuses on a different cultural tradition, offering a space for learning, discussion, and community building.

Through immersive experiences, the IEC ensures that cultural appreciation goes beyond words, and instead becomes something tangible, tasted, and felt.

Past editions of Dinner and Dialogues have celebrated a variety of cultures, from Lunar New Year festivities to Diwali celebrations, each offering a unique and enriching experience. With every event, the IEC strengthens its mission of cultural exchange and understanding, making international traditions accessible to all students.

Beginning during the eighteenth century in Trinidad and Tobago, Carnival is one of the largest and most iconic celebrations in the world.

As this Caribana-themed evening came to a close, attendees left with full stomachs, new connections, and a deeper appreciation for Trinidad and Tobago’s rich heritage. The next Dinner and Dialogues event will take place on April 3 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., where the IEC will host a celebration of Eid and Nowruz, offering another opportunity to celebrate and connect through food, traditions, and conversation.

Photo by Sofya Kolabukhova ing freedom, resilience, and the unbreakable spirit of the Caribbean people.

The IEC International Education Centre plays a vital role at UTM, fostering a globally inclusive community through workshops, events, and programming that highlight different cultures and traditions. Whether through the Dinner and Dialogues series or other initiatives, the IEC continually finds creative

While preparations for major international Carnivals were underway,

ways to bring international experiences to campus, helping students appreciate the beauty of global diversity without leaving campus.

U of T’s Governing Council declares student-seat winners Celesta Maniatogianni Associate News Editor UTM’s Albert Pan and UTSC’s Rishi Shah make the tough cut for the Council’s two undergraduate positions.

forts and plans before and after the Governing Council election and campaigning period.

Albert Pan is currently in his second year, studying for a major in biology for health sciences, and minors in education studies and English.

During his campaign, he said he was “all about putting students first.”

dents are apathetic towards such initiatives, seeing how the voter turnout for previous Governing Council elections [were] extremely low.”

Pan also noted that an increase in student candidates is “a great sign for a student body that is becoming more and more engaged with their greater U of T community.”

O

Rishi Shah echoed Pan’s regard for student participation in governance. “Student participation in governance isn’t optional—it’s essential,” he said. Shah argued that student perspectives are not considered enough and that “if students don’t step up, don’t vote, and don’t demand better, then we stay stuck in the cycle of inefficiency, outdated policies, and student concerns being treated as an afterthought.”

The council comprises internal members of the university, such as teaching staff and students, as well as external members, such as alumni. Eight seats of the council are reserved for students, who must be elected.

Shah is in his fourth year studying management at UTSC. Among other things, he is planning on advocating for fixing U of T’s slow systems, particularly in regard to club approval, course enrollment, and admin responses, and implementing better mental health and accessibility supports for students.

n February 21, the University of Toronto (U of T) Office of the Governing Council announced the winners of the 2025 Governing Council elections. The Council, a key part of U of T’s governance structure, is a senior governing body responsible for overseeing the University’s academic, business, and student affairs.

The winners of the two seats of Constituency 1, which is composed of all full-time undergraduates in the St. George campus’ Faculty of Arts and Science and U of T’s Mississauga (UTM) and Scarborough campuses (UTSC), are Albert (Zhonghen) Pan, with a vote count of 449 votes, and Rishi Shah, with a vote count of 551, who both successfully ran against 38 other candidates from all three campuses.

Meeting the incoming Constituency 1 representatives In an interview with The Medium, both winners spoke about their ef-

Shah also plans on pushing for what he calls “The Lost Potential Policy,” a one-time free course retake for students whose performance in that course was impacted by circumstances outside their control, such as medical emergencies or personal crises.

Photos provided by Rishi Shah and Albert Pan He is planning on advocating for U of T to put more money towards student initiatives and looks forward to bringing a voice representing UTM to the Governing Council.

“I was very, very pleased when I saw how many candidates there were for this year’s election,” Pan revealed. “Very often, the majority of stu-

When asked about what challenges they faced during their campaign, both Pan and Shah cited balancing academics with campaign efforts.

Shah stated that campaigning day and night, especially during mid-

03 term season, is challenging. “I kept going because I believed in what I was fighting for,” he stated.

Pan was granted extensions and other accommodations by some of his professors, and while his workload was still heavy, “even having some [professors] be understanding was enough to lighten my workload to a level that was manageable.” Shah said that standing out among other candidates, along with skepticism and pushback from other students also posed challenges.

For both candidates, a motivating factor was what they considered a

disconnect between students and U of T’s administration. “I noticed that while the administration always means well, there are some things that students do not need or want,” said Pan. “I felt that I could bridge the gap and help the administration work with students towards a solution that works better.”

Additionally, Shah argued that students often “accept the system instead of challenging it” and that he refuses “to let students feel powerless in their own university.”

personal, political, and education-related struggles. When asked why he ran for the Governing Council, he answered, “Because I knew that if I could push even one of these issues forward, it would make a difference. And that was worth fighting for.”

Pan hopes to work with the university’s financial staff to “remove inefficiencies and misallocated resources” and direct them to students. He argues for investments into “initiatives that will benefit students altogether,” and also aims to foster a more connected U of T community.

Shah spoke of students who have “fallen through the cracks” due to

Doug Ford will continue as Ontario’s Premier for a historic third term Roy Su Contributor The Progressive Conservatives win marks the first time since 1959 that a party leader has won three consecutive majority governments.

O

n February 27, P ​ remier Doug Ford claimed victory as his Progressive Conservatives (PC) obtained its third majority term at Queen’s Park after a snap election was called on the threat of U.S. tariffs that could damage Ontario’s economy.

Ford’s called a snap election over a year ahead of the originally scheduled June 4, 2026, arguing that he needed a “strong mandate” to direct the province through any potential trade war with the U.S. Ford’s government now faces renewed pressure to address Ontario’s struggles, both old and new.

The PC Party, led by Ford, secured 80 seats as of writing, an improvement from the 79 they held before the campaign. This marked an impressive achievement, making him the first Ontario leader since the 1950s to win three consecutive majorities.

Photo by Sara Li

Opposition parties left at a disadvantage The snap election did not help Ford’s rivals as they struggled to focus voter attention on scandals surrounding Ford, including the RCMP (Royal Canadian Mounted Police) criminal investigation of Ford’s Greenbelt scandal. To make matters worse, split voting among the three opposition parties discouraged a unified front.

Canada’s New Democrats (NDP), with 27 seats, returns as the official opposition despite facing the challenge of discerning themselves as a credible alternative. The loss was a disappointing outcome given that it is the party’s third term as the official opposition and that they were unable to unseat the PCs in any of their strongholds.

The Liberals obtained 14 seats, an increase from singledigit representation after two terms. However, their new leader, former Mississauga mayor, Bonnie Crombie, failed to win her own seat in Mississauga East-Cooksville.

On a brighter note, Liberals emerged as a resurgent force in this election, capturing 29.95 per cent of the popular vote and leapfrogging the NDP’s 18.55 per cent. The Green Party managed to retain their two seats in Guelph and Kitchener Centre but fell short of their goal to win over rural voters.

Criticism of the snap election Some, including Democracy Watch, criticized the snap election, calling it “self-interested.” According to a statement posted on their website, Co-founder of Democracy Watch Duff Conacher said, “With less than half of eligible voters casting ballots in the Ontario election, the second lowest turnout ever, and a distorted false majority, alarm bells should be going off and questions raised about the legitimacy of Doug Ford’s PC Party government which wasted almost $200 million of the public’s money on his self-interested, mid-winter snap election.”

At a staggering C$189 million price tag, Democracy Watch labelled the process as undemocratic, as Conacher further explained, “Voter turnout will go up significantly only if the voting system is changed, if the parties make changes to require everyone in politics to be honest, ethical, open and waste-preventing, and if Elections Ontario does its job

properly and informs Ontarians of the real reasons to vote and their right to decline their ballot.”

Implications for post-secondary education Under Ford’s leadership, universities in Ontario have faced significant funding challenges, resulting in a heavy reliance on international students for financial support. In an email interview with The Medium, representatives of the According to the Canadian Federation of Students-Ontario (CFS-O) noted that international students contribute more than half of tuition revenue while representing less than 20 per cent of the total student population.

This over-reliance, compounded by chronic underfunding of institutions, has created an unsustainable post-secondary education model.

With the federal government’s recent cap on international student enrollment, Ontario’s colleges and universities are already feeling disheartening repercussions, with York University experiencing abrupt program cuts, and the 2021 insolvency of Laurentian University serving as a cautionary tale.

Historically, Ford’s government has not taken measures to make postsecondary education a key priority. The CFS-O explained that “the Ford government’s plan for performance-based funding and the overreliance on tuition fees, reflects a disregard for public education,” and fails to address the root issue: chronic underfunding.

CFS-Ontario wants students to come together and push for a new funding model. Students need to demand free education and protect their right to organize because it is the only way to hold representatives accountable for their neglect of student issues.

CFS-Ontario also highlighted the need to foster the freedom of student unions, as students face threats when holding university administrations and the government accountable, which stifles meaningful debate in spaces meant to encourage learning.

04

UTMSU elections underway Samuel Kamalendran News Editor

The election’s voting campaign will take place from March 11 to 13, with polls open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.

As the University of Toronto Mississauga (UTM) enters the last stretch of the 2025 winter term, the UTM Students’ Union (UTMSU) is preparing for its executive elections. These elections will determine the individuals who will represent the UTM community in the 2025 to 2026 school year. Nominations have already been confirmed, and campaigning across campus is in full swing as candidates engage with students regarding the election.

Voting information The election’s voting period will run daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., starting on March 11 and ending on March 13. In-person voting will take place at the William G. Davis Building (DV), the Communication, Culture, and Technology Building (CCT), the Instruction Centre (IB), Maanjiwe Nendamowinan (MN), and the Kaneff Centre (KN). The campaigning period, which started on March 3, will last until the end of the voting period.

All UTM undergraduate students, including students at the Mississauga Academy of Medicine, are eligible to vote. Voters must bring their T-Card or a piece of government-issued ID to the polling station, where voting will be done via paper ballots.

According to their website, the UTMSU notes that this year’s election process will be governed by the Election Procedure Code. Any questions or concerns about the elections can be directed to the union’s Chief Returning Officer at cro@utmsu.ca.

Candidate statements President If elected UTMSU President, Aryaman Chopra promises to donate his estimated C$30,000 salary to charity and students in need while lobbying against unnecessary fees and working to “centralize certain parts of the UTMSU.” EvolveUTM’s Nehal Nakib, a fourth-year philosophy student, is a firm believer in UTM’s potential and hopes to “lead, advocate, and ensure the best UTM experience.”

InnovateUTM’s Andrew Park, a fourth-year criminology, law and society student, is passionate about advocating for access to employment and raising awareness of student resources while pushing for increased drop-in physical activity events.

Vice President External EvolveUTM’s Karan Chandi, a fourth-year political science student, believes the university is about “connections, opportunities and impact,” and hopes to advocate for student needs and create opportunities for students.

InnovateUTM’s Rajas Dhamija is running to “enhance transit and campus accessibility,” while advocating for a gaming lounge and more private study pods to enrich student life and make “UTM more efficient, engaging, and student-friendly.”

Vice President Internal EvolveUTM’s Abdullah Yousuf, a fourth-year CCIT and political science student, will depend on his experience as an international student to optimize students’ time while saving them money by using funds for student services, resources, and events.

InnovateUTM’s Owen (Rui) Zhang, a second-year digital enterprise management student, is passionate about “making UTM a place where students feel supported” and will strive to ensure financial transparency and streamline UTMSU’s operations.

Vice President Equity EvolveUTM’s Tozie Amaechi believes “every student deserves to be seen, heard, feel welcome and find community at UTM,” and wishes to advocate for inclusivity, strengthen students’ communal bond, and create meaningful change.”

Aymaan Chowdhury believes “equity is about action, fairness, and real change,” and will work to amplify student voices, push for better accessibility and mental health supports, and advocate for equity-promoting safe spaces and policy changes.

InnovateUTM’s Miatah McCallum, a third-year philosophy and sociology student, is passionate about supporting racialized students, whether through services or financial opportunities and will advocate for accessibility to students.

Vice President University Affairs EvolveUTM’s Manisha Biring, a third-year criminology, sociology, and education studies student believes that all students seek success and is committed to “advocating for inclusive, empowering policies that help students succeed in their own way.”

InnovateUTM’s Manaal Fatima, a third-year political science and criminology student, is passionate about “helping students navigate university,” ensuring access to resources and support, and improving academic policies and expanding mentorship programs.

Photo by Sara Li

MASTHEAD EDITORIAL BOARD Editor-in-Chief Hannah Grace Wang editor@themedium.ca Managing Editor Aya Yafaoui managing@themedium.ca News Samuel Kamalendran news@themedium.ca Opinion Mashiyat Ahmed opinion@themedium.ca Features Madhav Ajayamohan features@themedium.ca A&E Keira Johannson arts@themedium.ca Sports Joseph Falzata sports@themedium.ca Photo & Design Sara Li photos@themedium.ca Hannah Grace Wang design@themedium.ca Copy May Alsaigh may@themedium.ca Maja Tingchaleun maja@themedium.ca

TO CONTRIBUTE & CONNECT: themedium.ca/contact

@themediumUTM

@themediumUTM

@themediumUTM

@themediumUTM

@themessageUTM

@humansofUTM_

05

OPINION

Editor | Mashiyat Ahmed opinion@themedium.ca

Being an older sister is a privilege, not a burden.

Valentina Bravo Contributor Reflections on siblinghood.

M

others and fathers are always put in the spotlight when building a family, a community, or a civilization. Aristotle said mothers have the role of instructing the future citizens of the polis. bell hooks, in Feminism is for Everybody, emphasizes the parental role in constructing a more equitable society. Morals, values, cultural teachings, and the building blocks of one’s character starts with the parents. This is an undeniable fact.

But as an older sister, I always wondered, where do I fit into this?

I was only 6 years old when my dad told me “Act wisely; you are your sister’s role model.”

My role model at that time was Hannah Montana, who was much older than 6 years old… so it was very weird to think of myself as a one. However, as I developed my own critical thinking, and as I heard my dad’s voice repeating the same line, I understood that I had a duty as my younger sister’s older sister. Clashing with the political views older generations passed on to us, I felt I had to teach Mica, my younger sister, what was right and wrong. I taught her what is okay to say and what is deemed offensive.

I explained the struggles of women and why LGBTQ+ rights are important. As Mica’s older sister, I was in a unique position to share perspectives with her that my parents or grandparents could not.

My high school friend Maia, who is an older sister to her brother Antonino, felt the same way. I remember in one of our conversations, she mentioned she made time to sit

down with her brother, who was growing up among “FIFA guy” friends, to make sure he was not adopting ideas and personality traits from a society that undermines women. “He has to know not to talk smack about women and treat them right.” Maia took on the role as Antonio’s guardian of values, with the intention of protecting him from toxic masculinity while also improving society.

In her story “I am not my sister’s mother”, University of Toronto student Rola Fawzy writes on the pressures and responsibilities placed upon her as Haidi’s older sister, and how these conflicted with her inner self. On an Instagram voice note she sent me, she asks herself, “How do I give her the care that she needs without losing myself?” Rola was chosen by Haidi, who is on the spectrum, as her person. She made sure, from a young age, to protect her younger sister, even physically.

As Haidi’s playground bodyguard, Rola fought people who were part of a society that was ignorant about autism, where children on the spectrum were overlooked as “poorly raised”. Rola preferred to be labelled that way before anyone could do that to her sister. Although she fought kids her age, she ultimately wanted to socialize and build her own circle, a thought that seemed impossible. Reflecting later on her experiences, she says, “The resentment never comes from my sister or her challenges, but it comes from me not knowing how to contend with the fact that I am not her mother, I am her sister.”

Sofia is Stefanie’s older sister by 6 years. She, on the other hand, said that she did not put any pressure onto herself, but her parents did. “Even in this age — I am almost 30 — I’m still blamed a lot for things that my sister may think or do because they think it might

be because of my influence.” Her case proves that older sisters are given the responsibility of a younger sibling’s upbringing. She says, “I was not the oldest sibling, just the eldest girl.” Sofia says that she is the one to “step up” in her family, but she cannot recognize if that is because she is an older sister. I say it is. This experience is shared by so many of us, as we act as the organizers, administrators, and sometimes moderators of family disagreements. “That has just been something that I do but it feels natural”, she says.

As older sisters, we must step up when our parents fail.

Parents are crucial in a child’s development, but I believe society doesn’t acknowledge older sisters enough. We are so much more than just a sibling; we are political actors, advocators, societal builders, and ethical mentors. We are given a big responsibility even as children to learn in advance, protect, and teach. Being an older sister means being a guide and a friend but also taking on accountability for your younger sibling’s actions, while also maintaining and exploring your own identity.

My and my friends’ testimonies prove that the pressures of being an older sister do not change as you grow, but the relationships do. Rola still cares for her sister, but she acknowledges that she must balance that care with putting herself first. Sofia still protects her little sister, but not to try to impress their parents or submit to their expectations: instead, she transforms the blame placed upon her into empowerment.

And for me and my sister, I understood responsibility could be put onto me, but Mica is her own person, as am I. I understood that responsibility for my sister doesn’t have to be a burden. In fact, the responsibility I feel towards her is simply evidence of how much I care, or our bond as sisters. Recently, she visited me in Toronto, and it was my first time overseeing her after many years.

On our last night in the city, she and I walked in the freezing cold wind that blew through the city’s concrete jungle.

Hearing her talk, I realized I am no longer her guide, third parent, or role model.

I am simply her older sister, and she is my best friend.

Illustration by Melody Zhou

06

How many aura points did I lose?

Debbie Wong Staff Writer Gen Z is redefining spirituality in the digital age, blending ancient practices with internet humour and TikTok trends. But is this a true spiritual awakening, or just another aesthetic-driven phase?

“

How many aura points did I lose when I skipped class to study for a midterm for another class?”

If you have spent time on TikTok, you will likely be familiar with the above phrase. The trend, which assigns “spiritual points” to daily actions, is one way that Gen Z playfully engages with spirituality. From affirmations to tarot card reading to deity worshipping, Gen Z combines these ancient practices and beliefs with a sense of modern aesthetic and a chronically brain-rot internet humour.

Unlike previous generations who may have practiced spirituality in an organized group setting, the younger generation is redefining spirituality, creating their own belief systems and often through engagement on social media like TikTok. Spiritual practices like positive affirmations, divinity, and moon rituals have become increasingly popular among Gen Z-ers. But is this “spiritual awakening” genuine, or is it just another trend destined to fade when the next big thing comes along?

The Age of Aquarius: a new era of spiritual awakening?

You may have heard of the counterculture movement of the ‘60s, but what fewer people know is the movement’s association with the Age of Aquarius — the current astrological age. The precise start of this era is debated, but many astrologers claim it started in 2012, 2021, or 2025. The Age of Aquarius refers to a time of change and progress, much like the characteristics of the zodiac sign Aquarius. The key themes of this current era are technological advancements, spiritual awareness, social change, global connectivity, and humanitarian consciousness.

During the 1960s, young generations turned to a free and wild lifestyle, often living in communal settings, adopting vegetarian diets, practicing holistic medicine, and organizing to promote anti-war sentiments. Oftentimes, these practices are held in an organized group setting, relating to the hierarchical theme of the astrological age during that time, the Age of Pisces.

Students and digital spirituality Today, Gen Z is doing the same but with a smartphone in hand.

For many students, spirituality in the digital age offers something that academic life doesn’t: a sense of control over their future. In their academic life, students constantly ask: What should I do after graduation? Am I on the right path? Will I find a stable job? In such cases, spiritual practices like manifestation

and affirmations can provide comfort. This is echoed in some familiar phrases: I trust I am exactly where I am supposed to be.

I attract opportunities and abundance into my life.

I am smart. I am intelligent. I pass all my courses with a 3.5 GPA. Gen Z’s spiritual curiosity is increasingly shaped by digital platforms like TikTok and Instagram, where social media offers an accessible way for young people to explore spirituality on their own terms, free from the rigid structures of traditional religion. Users on TikTok share and explore alternative spiritual practices in a way that feels more inclusive and less hierarchical than traditional religious institutions like past generations practiced.

However, spirituality has become a trendy aesthetic wrapped in appealing graphics and catchy pop songs. And while this makes spirituality more accessible, does it also make it meaningful?

Coping mechanism or spiritual awakening?

Is Gen Z experiencing a spiritual awakening, or are we just tired and looking for an escape? What does it even mean to have a spiritual awakening? The truth is that there’s no definition for it, but if I were to try to explain it, I’d say that a spiritual awakening is coming back to yourself, becoming aware and grounded in a new reality, connecting with the inner and external world beyond materialism and worldly desires. It’s hard to imagine what it feels like until you personally experience it.

But most describe the feeling as finding a new perspective to view the world that carves out a fresh purpose in life.

There’s no denying that mental health struggles are at an alltime high among university students. About 65 per cent of Gen Z reported experiencing at least one mental health problem in the past two years. A recent article by University of Toronto graduates also probes into the disturbing case of suicides we’ve had across our three campuses, citing the lack of supportive psychological care for students and staff in the aftermath of a student’s death. It’s no surprise that many students turn to spiritual practices for relief, whether it be from the biting pres-

sures of the academic grind or for more complex personal issues.

Affirmations provide reassurance, manifestation gives hope for a better future, and tarot reading offers hope in life’s unpredictability.

The Aquarius era, defined by cultural renewal and progressiveness, encourages seeking truth beyond traditional ways, which could exIllustration by Sehajleen Wander plain why Gen Z is drawn to spirituality instead of organized religion. Gen Z’s digital exploration of spirituality through online tarot readings, Reddit discussions, etc., suggests that young people are not just escaping reality but actively shaping what spirituality means in the 21st century.

The future of spirituality in the Age of Aquarius The Age of Aquarius suggests that the interest in spirituality among Gen Z might be more than a passing phase. However, the rise of algorithm-driven or digital spirituality raises some concerns for those enticed by the appeal of this new-age spirituality. Will AI-generated astrology and social media trends deepen our generation’s connection to the spiritual realm, or will they diminish spirituality’s meaning? Some argue that digital spirituality lacks depth and commitment, while others say history shows that spirituality awakenings continue to evolve rather than disappear. I believe that for those interested in starting or rediscovering their spiritual journeys, we shouldn’t completely shut out modern spirituality as something that’s completely bonkers or irrelevant. Instead, a better path forward in navigating new-age spirituality is by reflecting on the positives and gains of traditional spiritual teachings and cultural knowledge, while balancing it with modern philosophies and values that underscore the Age of Aquarius.

What started as a TikTok trend may lay the foundation for a lasting transformation. Whether this is a mass spiritual awakening or a fleeting trend is still to be seen, but one thing to be sure is that Gen Z’s impact on spirituality is only just the beginning.

Culture Corner: the Zeppole story Massimo Bozzo Contributor A close look at a favourite Italian treat.

F

or as long as I can remember, my family would go over to my Nonno and Nonna’s house on St. Joseph’s Day to celebrate my Nonno’s name day. It wasn’t a huge deal to celebrate your name day in Canada, but in some Italian regions, it’s considered more important than your actual birthday.

For this occasion, many Italians, including my family, make zeppole, which is essentially an Italian donut.

It looks a lot like a honey cruller from Tim Horton’s but is more deep fried and has less frosting. Instead, it is filled with custard and topped with powdered sugar and cherries, sometimes with a serving of more cherries on the side.

My Nonno would make zeppoles every year along with his brothers at our family bakery, Sanremo, which they opened and ran for over fifty years. Making zeppole for the feast of

San Giuseppe was a tradition that the family and bakery continue to this day, despite my Nonno and his founding brothers retiring years ago.

Many regions make their zeppole differently, but people from Cosenza, a city located in the southern region of Calabria, make theirs the regular way and with a special ingredient: Amarena cherries. I never liked these cherries because I found them too sweet, but my dad and Nonno would always be the first to scoop them out of my plate after I plucked them out of my zeppole each year. I haven’t been to the family bakery since I was in high school and even

Illustration by Sehajleen Wander

07 though a lot has changed since my Nonno and one of his brothers passed away, I wanted to visit to see the baking in action.

Each zeppole started off as a giant mix of water, sugar, butter, salt, flour, and eggs. Once the mix was done, it was put into pipes and squeezed out through a star tip so each was

grooved and round. Next, they were tossed into the deep frier for thirty minutes and taken out to cool down so they could be filled with custard and sprinkled with white powdered sugar. And lastly, the most important part, Amarena cherries. They were sliced in half and plopped on the inside of the zeppole, leaving one on the top; the finishing touch resting on a mountain peak of custard and snowed with

powdered sugar.

My dad, Nonno, and zios broke their backs cranking out zeppoles for San Giuseppe, my grandfather’s name day, but the best part of their day was coming home with a dozen of their own. And of course, Nonno always had the first pick.

Why LinkedIn is the best social media platform Yusuf Larizza-Ali Staff Writer LinkedIn’s tailoring to the professional world makes it the most practical form of social media. And students shouldn’t shy away from it.

I

hadn’t used social media much prior to 2020 for the simple fact that I wasn’t particularly social. This changed when I learned about LinkedIn in early 2020. I was told LinkedIn differed from the other social media platforms because it served a practical purpose and could connect me with users based on relevance to our professional lives, as opposed to just friends.

Then the pandemic hit, meaning socializing in-person was no longer an option, pushing me to use LinkedIn to find connections.

LinkedIn’s interface is like other social media apps because you can make posts, connect with other people, see who your mutual connections are, and build a profile.

But it also has differences since LinkedIn is explicitly designed to be used for professional reasons. While apps like Instagram and Facebook can help budding professionals connect, LinkedIn was designed with that sole reason in mind.

It allows you to build and show a professional profile to assist you with getting jobs, connecting with like-minded peers, and learn valuable industry insights and skills.

Despite LinkedIn’s unique standing among other social media apps, it is still a social media platform at its core. As such, the platform is criticized for reducing its users’ professional value to how well-curated and impressive their profiles are. The biggest criticism of social media has always been that it makes us anti-social, glued to our devices as we become obsessed with increasing followers or portraying an inauthentic version of ourselves.

LinkedIn is not immune to this very valid criticism. In university, we are surrounded by early-career professionals looking

to enter the struggling job market; LinkedIn, with its socialmedia-like accessibility and ego-boosting features, is a digital environment ripe in inauthentic displays of interest just for the sake of show. There’s more to fostering genuine professional relationships than “connecting on LinkedIn.” In my opinion, many students aren’t equipped with the communication skills necessary for forging long-lasting fruitful connections with people that will boost not only their careers, but their professional character or identity. With this, it’s entirely possible for to prioritize making your LinkedIn profile look good, while the other benefits of professional connections, such as references, mentorships, or sharing knowledge become secondary.

It’s understandable why some may feel that an app like LinkedIn would warp people’s priorities and bring more harm than good. However, not enough students embrace or interact with

not encourage cycles of inauthentic or toxic behaviour. It all depends on how you use the app and what your priorities are.

My experience shows LinkedIn’s benefits as a platform to explore professional networks. I started using LinkedIn during a critical transition period in my life, navigating the new and daunting waters of university fresh out of high school, all backdropped against the pandemic, which was still in full swing. I initially started connecting with people I knew well and reconnecting with people from high school, and it felt rewarding to do this in a time when I couldn’t see them in person.

LinkedIn’s lack of anonymity is another factor in my positive experience. While interactions on X or Instagram can become toxic, LinkedIn’s requirement to use your real name and face discourages some of the toxic tendencies that emerge from burner accounts. In my opinion, LinkedIn users can experience common pros of social media, such as connecting with others, while decreasing the typical cons of cyberbullying or hostile behavior. This requirement creates a sense of accountability, ensuring that users engage more thoughtfully and thus avoiding any insulting or cyberbullying.

Fully engaging in the LinkedIn experience, which is something many students fail at, is about much more than simply setting up a profile, making a few connections, or reposting. Of course, there are ample ways to optimize the LinkedIn experience digitally, but it’s also important to remind ourselves that though our professional lives might start on the app, they don’t have to stay on the app.

Visiting office hours with professors, leveraging personal connections, attending in-person industry and networking events, actively seeking Illustration by April Roy referrals, using UTM’s Career Centre to hone resume and cover letters, and other traditional methods, are just a few ways to ensure that our LinkedIn productively to truly reap its benefits, partly perhaps professional lives happen both online and in-person, reducing of the intimidating nature of “professional connections” and the chance of over-dependence on LinkedIn for something as “reaching out,” or because individuals treat the app like all individualized and complex as career success. other social media apps. LinkedIn may or may not land you your first job, or maybe even your dream job. It may or may

08

features

Editor | Madhav Ajayamohan features@themedium.ca

The challenges women face in research Avneet Kaur Contributor An overview of the Feminist Lunch Series February panel discussion on community-led research, training and solutions.

O

n February 27, the Department of Historical Studies hosted a panel discussion through its Feminist Lunch Series online via Zoom. The discussion, titled “Critical Approaches to Gender Equity, Diversity and Inclusion: Community-Led Research, Training and So-

tional Programs at the Centre for Research in Women Health and the WHO (World Health Organization) Collaborative Centre on Women’s Health and International Delegate of the Canadian Red Cross. MejiaLancheros designs and implements health and social solutions with community partners while using advanced research and collaborative co-design approaches. She also leads a research project based in the Peel region on co-building a communicated-focused mental well-being program, particularly for newcomer families.

Sharing her story, Mejia-Lancheros reflected on barriers as an immigrant researcher. “Living in different parts of the world gives one a different perspective. It makes you realize the inequalities, socioeconomic factors, and health disparities in a society,” she explained.

Mejia-Lancheros recounted her experience with discrimination due to having an accent and coming from a unique background. Students in the discussion also shared similar personal experiences and motivations.

Underrepresentation of women in research

“People have the idea that if you’re from any of the under-developing countries, you’re unqualified, and because you have an accent, your accent is wrong,” Mejia-Lanche stated. She also presented her current project, a culturally sensitive family-oriented program for the mental well-being of immigrant and refugee families in Peel. “We are co-building this initiative and hopefully implementing it very soon,” she said, emphasizing barriers immigrants face in accessing support services.

Riutort led the next discussion, starting with the question, “Why on earth did you decide to create a feminist forum?”

lutions,” took place at noon and lasted until 1:30 p.m.

The discussion was led by Professor Zeinab Farokhi and Women and Gender Studies Practicum students Sabeen El Mougabatt, Elizabeth Finkinshtein and Edith Banda, who co-organized and moderated the event. The panel spoke about the barriers women face in research, particularly those from marginalized groups. The discussion also featured the Director of the Peel Institute of Research and Training at Family Services of Peel, Monica Riutort, and public health and epidemiology researcher Cilia Mejia-Lancheros.

Riutort developed the first manual on how to work with abused immigrant women in Canada and served as the executive director of the International Society for Equity in Health, director of Interna-

Mejia-Lancheros began the discussion by sharing statistics from UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) from 2021 that reveal only 33.7 per cent of researchers in the globe are women, bringing attention to women’s underrepresentation in research. She points out that the data on women in Research within Canada is insufficient, solidifying gender disparities in the field.

Although she revealed that there has been progress in representing women in research since 2017, she noted that racialized women, Indigenous communities, and those living with disabilities still do not make up a good representation of the Canadian Excellence Research Chair program. However, Mejia-Lancheros noted the initiative still opens doors for those who wish to be researchers.

Professor Faroukhi responded by saying the forum is Photo by Avneet Kaur important to analyze and evaluate existing efforts on diversity. Diversity is “not just about hiring racialized people,” Faroukhi explained. She emphasized the importance of measuring the impact of diversity policies and ensuring meaningful mentorship and support for those from different backgrounds.

Following this response, Riutort described the need for ongoing advocacy. “People are not talking about feminism enough,” Riutort stated.

“It has reshaped political, social, and economic structures, yet we are far from true equality.”

She encouraged students to embrace their identities by sharing their own experiences. “When I came to Canada, I kept my accent as a statement, defining who I am.” Riutort, who fled her home country due to her activism, continues to be an advocate in Canada, contributing to reproductive health research and co-directing the Bay Centre—Canada’s biggest abortion clinic.

Ruitort left students with a final thought: “While research relies on data to prove a point, it is passion that drives change and evolution in society.” She emphasized that while research is essential, true change comes when knowledge is paired with passion and conviction. Summarizing this idea, she stated, “Feminism is where your brain meets your heart.” Ruitort concluded her talk by discussing projects she is working on to empower Latin American immigrant women.

09

DeerHacks: 36-hours of innovation, connection and inspiration Gisele Tang Associate Features Editor

Madhav Ajayamohan Features Editor

DeerHacks is UTM’s annual hackathon that empowers students to showcase their creativity and build connections with like-minded peers.

Zimmermann. “It’s an amazing feeling to be able to get 180 people to show up. That makes me happy at the end of the day.”

D

eerHacks is the University of Toronto Mississauga (UTM)’s largest annual hackathon that lasts over a 36-hour period where participants form teams throughout one weekend to build a piece of software according to a given topic.

In an interview with Henrik Zimmermann, the president of DeerHacks, and an interview with this year’s winners of the annual hackathon, The Medium has learned the story behind the evolvement of this event, as well as the winners’ experience.

What is DeerHacks?

As a classical hackathon, DeerHacks is not only an opportunity for students to showcase their coding skills, it is also a chance for students to showcase their innovativeness and refine their presentation skills.

This year’s topic—discovery—gave students a lot of room to let their imagination shine. “Students could build any kind of software, tool or website that they could associate with discovery within 36 hours,” said Zimmermann. For example, participants could build a habit tracker to help people recognize their habits or create projects focused on “discovering history” or “exploring the internet.”

“And at the end, they have to present their solution,” shared Zimmermann. “A very large part of the competition is how you can market your creation and explain your product market fit to the judges.”

At the end of the competition, students would come to a panel of experienced judges and industry veterans. Aside from receiving recognition for their hard work, winners would also receive prizes that are up to C$1,200.

The evolution of DeerHacks With this year being the fourth iteration of DeerHacks, the event has developed into an exciting, professional and large-scale hackathon.

“Our first event was held fresh out of Covid-19, and it was the first time that people could host bigger events again on campus.” Zimmermann shared, “It was a way to invest and give back to the students.”

After the first year’s experimentation of hosting this event, DeerHacks evolved into a more professional, extensive event. “Some previous teams and organizers were able to get Major League Hacking (MLH) to support the hackathon.”

Zimmermann revealed that organizing this year’s hackathon is not without its challenges. With more financial restrictions and hosting regulations, the organizing team had to slightly scale down the hackathon. “Ultimately, we just want to keep the flame and events alive for people to connect.”

Nevertheless, it is the enthusiasm of participants that has fueled the organizers to push past all the obstacles and make this event as bright and valuable as ever. “It’s very rewarding when you see everything fall into place,” said

“Be open to [connecting] with your fellow students and [exchanging] between teams. This event is very communal,” advised Zimmermann. “And you’re just here to have two days of fun. You’ll also have the opportunity to exchange with a lot of people, and upper years especially.”

This event is about gaining experience, having a great time doing what you love, and connecting with like-minded peers.

Additionally, Zimmermann stated that organizers understand students’ heavy academic responsibilities, so it is not expected for participants to put in many hours in supporting the event.

help understand one’s true self. I thought it fit perfectly into the theme of ‘Discover’ as ‘Self-Discovery.’”

From the idea of dreams, Vijh recalled that “at one point, ChatGPT suggested using doors as interactive choices, and that instantly clicked. From there, we ran with the medieval theme since it made the whole dream exploration feel more mysterious and fun.”

In order to complete the project in under 35 hours, Henriques explained that the team “split the work up in a way that favoured everyone’s expertise.” For example, Vijh was most experienced with frontend (the code that determines how the application looks like) so he was tasked with envisioning how DreamScape would work and designing it.

The idea that won this year was DreamScape, developed

by Julius Henriques, Pratham Vijh, Tejovardhan Nepala, and Jahangir Minhas Minhas. Dreamscape is an application that helps you discover dreams and guides users towards self-discovery.

Nepala was the most familiar with integrating AI, so he handled the part of the code that took your dream, submitted it to Google Gemini, and outputted the answer.

Meanwhile, Minhas took the role of connecting all the frontend and backend (the code for the functionality of the application) components together and making sure they functioned properly. While we couldn’t get a statement from Minhas, Henriques commented that his work was integral to the success of the project.

As you load DreamScape, you are introduced to a medieval loading page that asks you to enter the details of your dream, either by typing or speaking. After that, users will receive three different interpretations: mind door, spirit door, and action door.

The biggest takeaway the team had from the event was the importance of collaboration. Nepal described that it was the power of teamwork that allowed “a group of four guys to create a beautiful product in 35 hours that would go towards winning first place in their first hackathon.”

Generated using Natural Language Processing and AI, these interpretations provide meaningful and personalized insights for users. According to an article by Devpost featuring DreamScape, the mind door provides you with a “psychological and emotional analysis of the dream,” the spiritual door provides you with a “symbolic or spiritual interpretation,” and the action door provides you with a “practical step or task related to the dream.”

The entire team wholeheartedly recommended that “everyone that’s even remotely interested in coding to sign up and do at least one hackathon in their life.” When we asked for advice for programmers who want to make the most out of their hackathons, Vijh said not to stress about “perfection” and instead focus on getting a working version first before making time to polish it later.” He also emphasized the importance of prioritization, advising, “Know what deserves your time and when to cut your losses and start anew.”

DreamScape: This year’s winning idea

The actual analysis of the dream was done using the Google Gemini AI model. The team particularly utilized prompt engineering to make sure the model gives brief, concise results that appropriately interpret the dream.

In an interview with The Medium, the team revealed how they came up with the idea of dreams.

Nepala recounted that the inspiration came from a conversation with his mother: “I remembered my mum’s unusual habit of trying to decode her dreams, saying that a person’s dreams actually have a lot of information that can

Photo by Julius Henriques and Andy Hunag

10

Arts

Editor | Keira Johannson arts@themedium.ca

The book-in-back-pocket What makes someepidemic: When literature becomes an aesthetic one great?

Zainab Khalil Contributor

Oscars 2025: To be great is not just to win, but to contribute to something larger than life.

Greatness refers to someone who has made meaningful contributions to a field, is hard-working, or has pushed the boundaries and left an impact on the world. When it comes to films and the arts scene, it is about the recognition and legacy someone leaves behind.

During his SAG Awards speech for Best Actor, Timothée Chalamet highlighted his passion to continue contributing to the entertainment industry, striving to become “one of the greats.” He also mentioned those who inspired him to pursue his passions, including actors like Daniel Day-Lewis, Marlon Brando, and Viola Davis, as well as athletes Michael Jordan and Michael Phelps. He recognized those who carved the path for all others to follow, who made history, who had to work twice as hard to get to where they are now, and who are well respected in the entertainment industry.

Chalamet emphasized that being great is about being a part of something bigger—a legacy that will inspire others around the world.

Illustration by Erin Sauve

Audrey Thilloy Contributor Are celebrities turning classic literature into just another fashion statement?

I

n the digital age of social media, even literature has become an accessory. The latest trend?

Celebrities like Timothée Chalamet and Harry Styles are being photographed carrying around novels, transforming classic literature into a fashion statement that’s more about aesthetics than actual reading.

The phenomenon began with a viral photo of Jacob Elordi browsing books at a Sydney airport, dressed in a leather jacket and cargo pants stuffed with literary tomes. TikTok quickly transformed this moment into a full-blown trend: men are now accessorizing their outfits with well-known classics tightly squeezed into denim pockets.

There’s an undeniable allure to a “pretty man who reads.” Intelligence and emotional depth are attractive, and the presence of a book enhances that allure. But beneath this carefully curated aesthetic, these “pretty men” might dilute the appreciation of literature. It’s a symptom of our performative culture, where the real experience matters less than its Instagram-worthy presentation. It’s no longer enough to read: one must be seen reading, photographed reading, even styled reading.

This isn’t the first time intellectual pursuit has been reduced to a visual prop. Remember the era of fake glasses? Those non-prescription frames that transformed anyone into an instant “intellectual” without the intellectual rigour? The book-in-back-pocket trend feels remarkably similar: a superficial performance. Bookstores have long marketed certain novels based on their aesthetic appeal—think of all the “special” editions of your favourite bestsellers. What is new, however, is the role of literature in shaping male (celebrity) identity. Just as thick-rimmed glasses and cigarette-smoking symbolized a tortured genius, a dog-eared copy of Infinite Jest now serves as a shortcut to intelligence.

The Oscars is an award ceremony that defines greatness in the film industry, celebrating and bringing together prestigious actors, producers, filmmakers, animators, and artists from all over the world. Winning an Oscar is one of the highest honours in this industry, symbolizing recognition for outstanding work. But even beyond the Oscars, there is another level of greatness: achieving an EGOT. An EGOT is used to refer to an artist who has won four major entertainment awards: an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony. Only a few actors hold all four of these awards, including the aforementioned Viola Davis.

But what does it really mean to be great? Is it just about the awards, or is it about the impact on society? Many of the most celebrated films are ones with themes that spark conversations and discussion and leave people thinking about it for a long time.

In this regard, greatness is not just about the triumphs but about touching lives and making a difference.

When it comes to the Oscars, the members of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences determine who is great. However, being great isn’t just about industry recognition. It is about connecting with the audience, with peers, being looked up to and being someone who will stand the test of time.

Many artists who haven’t won Oscars have made history. As artists, they go through both highs and lows in their careers, many facing public criticism and setbacks, yet they push forward, determined to share their work and continue creating. That kind of dedication is admirable.

The perseverance to continue despite obstacles, and the courage to be vulnerable in front of the world, isn’t just about the fame. It is about the impact, the work, and the passion.

To be great is not just a win, it is about creating and contributing to something incredible that lives in the hearts of those who experience it.

Beyond the aesthetic implications, the books people carry also have political weight. Reading is inherently political: books shape perspectives, inform ideologies, and challenge worldviews.

When celebrities are photographed with certain books, they are making implicit statements.

This can be beneficial, drawing attention to important works that might otherwise remain in academic or niche literary circles. But it can also be performative. Is carrying The Handmaid’s Tale a genuine sign of worrying about women’s rights and reproductive freedom or simply an attempt to appear socially aware of the current political climate?

The most unsettling thing isn’t that books have become props. It’s that we’ve grown used to it.

We expect that the novel in the pocket exists to be seen rather than read, that its presence is merely a performance. When did literature become a thing to be worn rather than interacted with? Maybe it was always this way. Maybe we have always wanted our beauty to be tempered by intellect and our idols to be the same. Or maybe we are losing something–the secret magic of reading–when books become another surface to be admired rather than a doorway to something deeper. When asked about the trend, Elordi himself dismissed it, saying, “I think people need to get out more, maybe.” He might be right.

Illustration by Ramiya Sureshkumar

Love at first script? How reality TV shapes modern love Vedika Awtani Contributor Reality TV is a double-edged sword, promoting open-mindedness and entertainment while building unrealistic expectations, unhealthy behaviours, and competition.

11

with weekly episodes and unpredictable, constant drama. They can be a form of escapism, where we can forget about our worries, speculating outcomes and debating contestants’ choices.

many as 54 percent of respondents in one study learned about dating through reality TV, most internalize unhealthy behaviours and competitive culture.

Furthermore, with new selections of shows focusing on every-

In a short-term reality show, relationships are portrayed as unhealthy, fast-paced, and lacking commitment, such as with Love Island, where contestants are constantly recoupled with the introduction of new “bombshells.” As a result, they experience little emotional connection and normalize competitive or envious behaviour.

T

he music crescendos, your dream man approaches, and your heart leaps. He holds out a rose, and he’s just about to give it to you when— You realize it’s not real.

This sweeping, romantic gesture is usually from a script designed for dramatics. Shows like Love Island, Love is Blind, and Too Hot to Handle take the world by storm with every season, but are they a true reflection of modern relationships, or are they distorting our view?

Similarly, shows like Too Hot to Handle can negatively impact self-esteem, creating unattainable beauty standards. It can showcase the effects of “hookup culture”, overemphasizing sexual activity and attractiveness.

Why Am I Watching?

Recently, reality dating shows have amassed massive audiences, dynamically changing dating norms. Where fictional characters provide little comfort, viewers are turning to reality TV to form real connections. The people on the screen are sources of relatability, navigating love in familiar ways.

Illustration by Adanna Scott

Moreover, these shows introduce original premises that challenge conventional approaches to dating. Love Is Blind disregards physical appearance, Love Island tests commitment with constant obstacles, and Too Hot to Handle favours emotional connections instead of sexual ones. These new angles to love draw us in and keep us intrigued, changing the criteria we use to determine compatibility.

thing from arranged marriages to masked dates, we can find optimism hidden within reality TV. Successful relationships in any category can develop a positive outlook and even encourage open communication. Seeing individual opinions reflected on a screen can spark conversation between friends and partners, contributing to healthy connections.

Too Hot to Handle, But Ready to Grow

Is Love Truly Blind?

Beyond dating, reality shows are a fresh form of entertainment,

Unfortunately, it’s not always a positive experience. While as

Finally, while Love is Blind supposedly disregards physical appearance, contestants are often discriminatory and demeaning to one another. They aggressively compete and depict relationship struggles that normalize poor communication and acceptance of conflict. The show also promotes betrayal or “ghosting” after one has won the game, creating distrust and conflict in viewers’ relationships.

So, the next time you watch your favourite TV shows, take everything with a grain of salt. Their portrayal of love might not be as real as you think.

Detoxing from the digital world Maryam Raheel Contributor It might be possible to disconnect from the digital world without completely pulling the plug.

F

or many of us, going without our phones feels impossible.

They’re the first thing we reach for in the morning and the last thing we check before bed. While smartphones aren’t inherently harmful, the endless stream of information, constant connectivity, and excessive use take a toll.

Even as I write this, I catch myself reaching for my phone every few sentences. Though it sits across the room, the urge to check notifications and doomscroll lingers. Sometimes, I feel phantom vibrations as if my phone’s buzzing, even when it’s not there.

Initially, I dismissed these habits. But over time, I noticed feelings of restlessness creeping in whenever my phone wasn’t within arm’s reach. My ability to focus diminished and I engaged less with my hobbies. I feared missing out if I wasn’t constantly checking social media for updates. The instant gratification of scrolling became a cycle of addiction.

Dr. Anna Lembke, in Dopamine Nation, calls smartphones the “modern-day hypodermic needle.” Each notification, app, or game triggers the release of dopamine, a chemical in the brain that fuels pleasure and reward, which reveals why we remain glued to our phones.

Illustration by Adanna Scott

Smartphones are a never-ending source of entertainment that feeds on feelings of envy, pride, and insecurity. Despite knowing the effects, break-

ing free from this cycle is tough. If, amid your doomscrolling, you’ve stumbled upon the concept of a digital detox—ironic, I know—you may have wondered if it’s even possible. In a world where smartphones are embedded in every aspect of life, the mere thought of disconnecting for even a day can feel unrealistic.

But from my own experience, I’ve found that there are ways to detach from our devices without completely pulling the plug.

An important first step is identifying what aspects of our digital habits make us feel worse. By pinpointing what causes distractions or anxiety, you can focus on reducing the time and energy spent on those triggers. Whether it’s setting screen time limitations or completely removing certain apps, even small changes can improve your mood.

The next challenge is replacing screen time with something meaningful. For me, it was revisiting hobbies I’d neglected like reading a physical book rather than mindlessly scrolling. The world at our fingertips makes it feel like we’ll miss out if we look away for a second, but excessive phone use distracts us from more important things. The incessant buzz of notifications drowns out the joy of simple moments, such as immersing myself in a captivating story, engaging in conversation with family and friends, or simply being present.

Breaking the cycle takes time, and I’ve learned to be patient with myself. The more I fill my time with activities that nourish my well-being, the easier it becomes to step away from my phone without feeling like I’m missing out. By intentionally stepping away from the parts of my phone that cause me to spiral, I’ve rediscovered the joy of being present and spending time on the things that matter most.

12

sports & health

Editor | Joseph Falzata sports@themedium.ca

Politics and play: the many levels of supporting sports in Ontario ada-U.S. trade war, so it’s unclear whether or how their budget will change.

Aaron Calpito Associate News Editor Understanding the effects of pornographic addiction on the developing brains of students.

The City of Mississauga is set to spend over $45 million on recreation and culture. Most notably, this spending covers renovations to the Huron Park and River Grove Community Centres.

S

The state of sports funding at U of T

ports and politics go together like bleach and vinegar – mixing them inflicts irritation, nausea, and misery upon anyone unfortunate enough to get caught up in the resultant stench. Nevertheless, when it comes to funding and facilitating sports, the overlap between sports and politics is inescapable.

Whether it’s building arenas, providing subsidies, or spreading awareness about the importance of physical activity, governments play an invaluable role in ensuring that sports are available, accessible, and financially viable. Even so, political support for sports and recreation isn’t always par for the course.

Amid a trade war with the United States, Doug Ford’s re-election as Premier of Ontario, and student government shakeups at all three University of Toronto (U of T) campuses, sports and recreation across the province could be in for big changes.

Governments’ plans to support sports in Ontario As a part of their plan to “Build to Keep Workers on the Job,” the Progressive Conservatives (PCs) promise to increase the Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure fund by $300 million. Introduced in last year’s budget, the Fund will make $500 million available to municipalities to construct sports venues, community centres, and facilitate recreation for seniors if implemented.

In Toronto, city council set aside just under $600 million for parks and recreation in their 2025 budget, implemented on February 11. However, the City currently has no comprehensive plan to manage potential economic impacts from the Can-

At U of T, programs for sports and physical activity fall under the purview of Sport & Rec, a division of the Faculty of Kinesiology & Physical Education (FKPE).

age students to play sports at school, it should be accompanied by genuine interest in university sports among students.

As the spring elections for the Students’ Unions at the Mississauga, Scarborough, and St. George campuses come to a close, now might be an opportune moment for the Unions to ramp up promotional material for sports at U of T. They can also lobby university administrators to increase their support for sports programs.

Other student groups can also play a role by acting as mediums

According to their latest Budget Report, U of T plans to spend about $16.7 million on FKPE over the 202425 fiscal year. Expenditure on FKPE is on the low end, compared to other faculties and divisions like Music ($21.1 million), Information ($23.1 million), and Public Health ($30.7 million). The highest funded faculty at U of T, Arts & Science, is slated to cost the university about $640 million.

But the relatively low funding for sports and recreation hasn’t stopped students and staff from developing a robust athletic community. Just last year, the U of T Women’s Flag Football Team (UTWFF) became the latest team to get Varsity status after a decade of fighting for recognition from Sport & Rec. Ensuring that sports at U of T expand and are available, affordable, and popular among students depends on continued funding from the government and university administration.

But participation in sports might also benefit from a push from the student body.

Illustration by Ramiya Sureshkumar for engagement with sports. UTWFF started out as a regular U of T club, and it eventually achieved recognition from Sport & Rec thanks to the perseverance, teamwork, and skills of its members.

While more funding for athletics and wellness can help encour-

For U of T’s growing sports scene, ensuring that seasoned and aspiring student athletes alike have access to coaches, health professionals, supportive teams, and adequate facilities is an absolute must. Amid political uncertainty, support from all levels of government, U of T administrators, and students will have to be extensive and steadfast in their commitment to fostering a community for sports.

Comeback falls short as men’s team faces defeat

Women’s Team Falls Short Against Top Seeded Blue

The men’s team faced off against rivals University of Toronto Scarborough (UTSC), where playoff history is nothing new.

Having played each other in each of the last three post seasons, it felt poetic for them to face off yet again. Having lost by only one point against Scarborough last year, the Eagles were looking to right their wrongs and get their revenge.

The women’s team traveled downtown to take on the top seeded St. George Blue. In what was going to be a tough fight, the girls didn’t shy away from the challenge.

Going the whole nine yards

Heads held high as Eagles season comes to an end Evan Mowder Contributor A pair of losses for UTM basketball brings another season to a close.

B

oth the men’s and women’s basketball teams were in action on Sunday, March 2, playing in the Tri-Campus League semi-finals – one win away from getting back to the championship game.

In what was a slow start for the University of Toronto Mississauga (UTM), the Eagles found themselves down doubledigits early, but continued showing tremendous fight. Some big plays offensively from guard Mene Eruotor helped keep the Eagles within reach. Still down double-digits, the Eagles needed one last spark. In a comeback energized by forward Daekwan Michael, who led the team with 18 points, the Eagles erased a 13 point lead late in the fourth.

With less than a minute to go, senior guard Evan Mowder, hit a big three pointer out of a timeout to cut the lead to one possession with less than a minute to go. Unfortunately, that is as close as they came, ultimately coming up four points short and marking an end to the 2024-25 season.

“It was very emotional after the game,” Mowder said. “With

Photos by Pia Hahn multiple graduating players, this was the last time a lot of us In what has been an up and down year for both the men’s and women’s teams, the chance to change the narrative with a championship berth had shifted the energy amongst the players.

will get to wear the Eagle on our chest, and that’s a tough thing to swallow.”

Finishing the season with a 12-6 record including two OCR Tournament Championships, there is still lots to be proud of for the men’s squad.

Starting the game strong, the Eagles only found themselves down four after the first quarter. They found early success from guard Melinda De, who contributed 10 points, who helped keep the game within reach despite the strong play from Blue.

The pressure mounted, and as Blue began to extend the lead, the Eagles struggled to gain momentum. Despite 12 points from guard Fathema Shaikh and a big 13 points and 10 rebounds double-double from forward Kaitlin Parsons, Blue held their ground. Fighting till the end and never giving up, the girls showed their resilience and strength despite the loss.

Shaikh reflected after the game, noting it was her last for UTM. “I can’t believe it’ll be the last time representing my school,” she said. “Definitely a bittersweet moment, but I will cherish the memories forever.”

Despite the challenges the girls faced this year, there is nothing to hang their heads about. Winning an OCR Championship and playing with almost a brand-new team from last year, their resilience and dedication was on full display every week.

A special shout-out to the coaches of both teams for all their hard work this past season: nothing would be possible without them. As well as the graduating seniors for all their efforts over the course of their careers. Once an Eagle, always an Eagle.

Congratulations to both teams on a great season.