Volume 108, Issue 1
Thursday, August 19, 2021
“Covers the campus like the magnolias”
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Old Gold & Black | Freshman Issue
Alexandra Karlinchak/Old Gold & Black
Dear Class of 2025, Welcome to Wake Forest! These next few years of your life will fly by quickly and reach highs and lows far beyond your expectations. I am so jealous that you will experience four entire years of tradition and joy as my final year at Wake Forest begins. I realize that this is the first of many adviceridden letters that this issue contains. But let it be said that I am the oldest — and potentially sappiest — member of this editorial team, so I have earned my spot at the top of the tearful advice pyramid — and here I shall remain. I do not want to sound like a nagging mother or a cliche-ridden journalist, but when I say lean into each moment and experience as if it were both your first and last, do it. Romanticize every Pit breakfast, learn to love the way the humid North Carolina air makes your hair four times its normal size, talk to your professors about things outside their class, ask that person on a date, run in the rain through Reynolda trails, go to every football game you can, eat Elizabeth’s on the quad and smile at every person you see walking to class. I would be remiss not to mention that Wake Forest is not an institution without flaws, however. Perfection is not attainable — it never
has been — but progress is. Do not be afraid to criticize Mother so Dear. If you see something that can be improved, altered or done away with, speak up. Wake Forest exists as the institution it is today because of changemakers like you and me. After all, to lead is to do. So do good, speak your mind and promote equity and inclusion in all ways — but don’t forget to smell the roses after planting them. This school is what you make of it. So make it yours. Step outside of your comfort zone and lean into the traditions that Wake Forest has to offer. Soon, you will be in my shoes, looking back over the past few years with mixed feelings of gratitude and sadness. I am grateful that I have been shaped by Wake Forest, as I have grown into a version of myself who I am delighted to be. But I am sad that my time at Wake Forest is slowly coming to an end. Cherish every moment and make every memory that you can. This school is a magical place and there are adventures around every corner — you just have to look.
Go Deacs! Alexandra Karlinchak Editor-in-Chief Class of 2022
O ld G old & B lack The Freshman Issue
Alexandra Karlinchak Editor-in-Chief
Charlie Benedict Business Manager
Will Zimmerman Ben Conroy Print Managing Editor Online Managing Editor Special thanks to: Katie Fox, Joe Cho, Christina DeNovio, Cap McLiney, Connor Mcneely, Aine Pierre, Jake Stuart, Cooper Sullivan, Essex Thayer, Selinna Tran and Phoebe Zerwick Online: wfuogb.com Twitter: @wfu_ogb Facebook: facebook.com/OGB1916 Instagram: @wfu_ogb The Freshman Issue is a special publication of the Old Gold & Black, published by Triangle Web Printing in Durham, N.C. It is the official Wake Forest student newspaper, and is published weekly during the semester outside of holidays. If you have any questions or comments, email karlae18@wfu.edu. For advertising inquries, email benecc19@wfu.edu.
Freshman Page 2 | Wednesday Issue | Old22, Gold 2018 & Black
Thursday, Old Gold &August Black 19, | Freshman 2021 | Page Issue 3
INSIDE THE ISSUE Letter from the Editor Letter from President Susan Wente Letter from President Ally Swartzberg Deciding on a major The best hangover cure in Winston The queer experience on campus Volunteer opportunities Mental health tips Being Black at a PWI Wake Forest sports preview Deacs in pro sports What your tour guide didn’t tell you Professors/office hours
2 4 4 5 5 6 6 7 7 8 9 9 10
Being mindful with money 10 Should you rush? 12 Food on and off campus 13 Things I wish I did freshman year 14 Campus traditions 14 Minority group roundtable 15 What to do in town 16 Top 10 ways to thrive at Wake Forest 17 The arts at Wake Forest 17 Study abroad 18 Extra curriculars 18 Semester tips from the Old Gold & Black 19 Illustrations 19
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Old Gold & Black | Freshman Issue
Letters from the Presidents:
Wake Forest’s two new presidents share advice
New WFU President Susan R. Wente
Sometimes, a song transports you back to a specific place and time in your life. That’s the case for me and Billy Joel’s “Movin’ Out (Anthony›s Song)”. Every time I hear it, my mind returns to my childhood home in Iowa. There, I’m surrounded by boxes, and my stomach is filled with the kinds of butterflies that swarm when something exciting is about to happen. That song was playing on my stereo as I packed to leave for my first fall semester and my parents prepared for the five-hour car trip to the University of Iowa. I imagine you might have some of those same swarms of butterflies as you start your academic journey at Wake Forest. Truth be told, I have them too: this is an exciting time for all of us! A few weeks before you packed to come join the Wake Forest community, I did too. And just as you are looking ahead at the opportunities to become part of a new community, I am too. Class of 2025, together, we get to make Wake Forest our home. We will learn the cherished traditions and distinctives that are hallmarks of the Wake Forest experience. And we will share our talents and find ways to contribute and serve our new community too. As an educator, I understand the excitement and anticipation that accompanies the beginning of an academic year. I also know that this moment — the start of your college career — will only happen once. As we take our first steps as Demon Deacons, let me briefly share the hopes I have for
Photo courtesy of Wake Forest University
each of you during your years on campus from three vantage points. First, as a scientist and a scholar, I hope your Wake Forest experience will be filled with discovery — discovery of knowledge, discovery of your potential and discovery of what you can uniquely contribute to the world. As a mentor, I hope your Wake Forest experience inspires you to grow not only as a scholar, but also as a human being. May you find ways to enrich your life emotionally, socially and intellectually. And finally, as a leader, I hope that you will use these coming years as a time to seek opportunities to lead in your own right and in your own way. Embrace your education not just as a series of classes, projects and relationships, but also as a way to unite and improve our community — on campus, in Winston-Salem and around the world. Over the next weeks and months, you will continue to get lots of advice and opinions about your college experience — not least of all from me! Everyone is excited for you and wants the best for you during your time at Wake Forest. As you experience this moment, I urge you to remember that your time here is about your growth and your being part of a caring community — your transition to life away from home, into a new community, aimed toward new adventures and ambitions. Here’s hoping you have some good music for the journey. If you need some inspiration, check out my Move-In playlist at go.wfu.edu/playlist2021. Class of 2025, welcome to Wake Forest!
Student Body President Ally Swartzberg Dear Members of the Class of 2025, Welcome home! And I really do mean home. It is my sincerest hope for each of you that campus will begin to feel like your safe place and that these people — your classmates, mentors, friends and professors — will come to be a second family. Three years ago, on the evening before I moved into Johnson Hall, I stood outside Foothills in downtown Winston-Salem and cried on my parents. I was nervous. As all of my closest friends will tell you, change and I don’t have the most positive relationship. As I moved into my double, I came to appreciate my mom’s desire to make up my bed and my dad’s excitement to move, and then move again, and then move back every piece of furniture that my tiny dorm had to offer. For that one day, my fierce independence seemed to drift off as the reality of college set in. And then it was real. If no one has told you this yet, then let me be the first: there is no right way to “do college.” Read that again. There is only your right way. Maybe for the first time, you get to decide what kind of person you want to be and how you want to live your life. If you hate mornings, don’t take an 8 a.m. class. If you will truly never open a planner, then don’t go buy one for $15 at the bookstore. If you really like Indiana Jones, and you want to try something new, take an archaeology class. The possibilities are nearly endless, and the best part is that you can try something and decide you hate it, and then just move on and try something new.
You are an outstanding group of young adults. You will challenge each other in your weed-out pre-med classes, comfort each other when you’re feeling homesick, laugh together while on 2 a.m. Subway runs and scream so loud your throat hurts at football games. Take the time to get to know each other — your lifelong best friends are somewhere on the quad, you just have to find each other. The only promise I’ll ever make to you is this: every experience you have over the course of this year will not be the best experience of your life. There will be hard days and roommate tiffs, and moments when all you want is the comfort of a home cooked meal. But when you look back on this year in May, and then again three years from now as a washed-up senior, all these moments will seem to tell a patchwork story of how you found who you wanted to be. You don’t have to do it alone, though. The beautiful thing about college is that there are always three years of students that have made mistakes so you don’t have to. When an upperclassman says “Hey, let’s grab lunch”, take them up on it. Let me be the first to offer: Hey, I’m Ally, I’m so excited that I’ll get to meet you all soon, let’s grab a coffee and have a chat. Pop by and see me in Benson 304! Photo courtesy of Ally Swartzberg
All the best, Ally Swartzberg
Freshman Issue| Old Gold & Black
Thursday, August 19, 2021 | Page 5
Choosing majors: things to be aware of A comprehensive advice column for the least-important important decision you will ever make. BY CONNOR MCNEELY Opinion Editor mcnecb19@wfu.edu When some students go to college, they may have a faint idea of what they would like to study and do once they graduate. Others might be more focused on a specific career track, and may feel that the traditional undergraduate experience is not totally necessary for their goals. And some don’t have a clue about what they want to study, what they are truly passionate about or perhaps even capable of. This is why Wake Forest thrives as a traditional liberal arts college. The students that arrive in WinstonSalem each fall are those that are keen to spend the next four years (or more!) maturing themselves in deeply personal ways — not just through surface level, pseudo-professional decisions. By definition, a liberal arts institution is one that prioritizes a broad academic education rather than limited and specialized learning. At a school like Wake Forest, undergraduates are granted the opportunity to discover what they are good at, and even more importantly, what they love. In a
variety of different fields (provided by general education requirements), you will be exposed to subjects that fascinate you and subjects that you hate. In the end, even the most career-ready students will end up with a host of useful skills and broad knowledge, and they’ll enjoy the process. Beyond what you might hear about divisional requirements (read “business students griping about their required Fine Arts divisional”) the structure they provide is valuable in that it enriches the knowledge and aspirations of many successful individuals. Yes, you too could end up like Steve Jobs, who audited a calligraphy class and became a typography genius at Apple — all you have to do is take that first step and sign up for a course outside of your comfort zone. Don’t panic if you are having trouble deciding on your major. Wake Forest students cannot declare a major until they have enough credits to be considered a second-semester sophomore (40 credits), and even then nothing is necessarily set in stone. I once wrote an article about a senior who learned Ancient Greek and Latin over the summer following his junior year, then changed his major from business to classics that fall. Anything is possible. It all depends on the passions you have and the work you’re willing to put in. At Wake Forest, it can seem like there is an overwhelming amount of pressure to adopt a major that is indicative of certain financial stability and success.
There are large swaths of students who are immediately locked into the business or medical tracks, which can leave some students pursuing a major in the humanities feeling like they are looking in from the outside. While it is true that the business and medical schools of Wake Forest are some of the most outstanding of their kind in the country, that doesn’t mean that they’re right for everyone, or that you need to be a part of one to be accepted. The maxim certainly holds that in the “real world” (as boomers and many curmudgeons like to call it) only the first job you get is based on your major. Any job you hold after that is based on the reputation you develop. So work hard. Make connections and begin to develop your network early. Focus on the big picture, and don’t fret too much over the C you earned in your language requirement. When it comes down to it, the level of success you achieve in life after college will be measured either by how much you love what you do, or by who — or what — you are doing it for. My piece of advice about choosing your major is to explore as many choices available to you as possible. Don’t try to impress your peers by adding additional majors or minors. Your major is a highly personalized choice, and it affects only you. Don’t make your decision about anyone or anything else. Take your time, and try not to overthink it. You’ve got years to make the decision.
A “pho sure” hangover cure in Winston The best place in Winston-Salem to go after a bender might be unexpected, but it works.
BY CAP MCLINEY Asst. Opinion Editor mclicp19@wfu.edu
you’ll see what I mean. The coffee beans come out in an interesting contraption that steeps them directly into your glass filled with ice, thick cream and a sugary sauce that coats the bottom of the glass. I recently heard that once the coffee has finished brewing, it is critical to stir up the mix very firmly so that it reaches a smooth brown consistency. While you watch the coffee slowly brew in front of you, the hangover begins to retreat before the first sip. It knows that it has met its match. Now you might be asking yourself, “Cap, where can I find such a meal in Winston-Salem?” Well, after trying most of the pho options in town, I have the ideal spot. Off Stratford Road, there is a place called Pho
and Sushi Vietnamese and Japanese Cuisine. I have never had their sushi, so I cannot speak on its behalf. But the pho is by far the best I have had in the area. The beef broth is clear, which is actually the best indication as to the quality of pho as it takes nearly a week of skimming to get it down to that consistency. You might not think the place is as good as I say upon approaching, as it does have a humble exterior. But, I promise you that the people who run the place are absolutely wonderful and the food is even better. Everything I described is as I experienced there, and I promise you this place will bring your hangover to the swiftest of conclusions.
There are some things in life that just go together. Peanut butter and jelly, peas and carrots, spaghetti and meatballs, hamburgers and fries, macaroni and cheese. Did I miss any? One that you might not have considered is the following: Vietnamese pho and a hangover. Picture this hypothetical: you wake up after a long night out on the town, and your head feels as though a train has run through it. Your vision is blurry, and your left hand has a slight tremor. The idea of vomiting sounds horrific yet wonderful. Water is not doing the job and Advil has been rendered completely useless. You are in trouble. You are in pain. You need a hero. And that hero is pho. The steaming, hot broth combined with a healthy serving of rice noodles and your choice of protein — typically beef, shrimp or chicken — pairs perfectly with the mountain of sprouts, basil, mint, jalapeño and lime. The soup and the vegetables often come out separately so that the user may add what they desire and the additions do not lose their vital crispness. You may add sriracha hot sauce and a dark, soy-based sauce called hoisin, which adds a degree of salty sweetness that is delectable. You will find that the large portion of broth and noodles soaks up any toxins in your body. The saltiness also replenishes any saline deficiencies and the vegetables also provide valuable nutrients that are certain to lift you out of your depleted state. While the pho dish itself has its own benefits, there are a couple of side items that are not completely essential but will provide extra bolstering in case the morning has brought a particularly trying set of conditions upon your body. By ordering a side of spring rolls, one is given another vegetable aide. What really sets this dish apart is the peanut sauce that comes on the side. Instead of a room temperature condiment as you might imagine it to be, a good Vietnamese peanut sauce will come out cold from the fridge. Similar to the rejuvenating benefits of a cool slushie, this sauce certainly helps get you back on track if ordered as a starter. Emily Beauchamp/Old Gold & Black The final piece of my self-titled Vietnamese hangover cure is the unique iced coffee that can be acquired at any While many would not consider Vietnamese pho to be the ideal hangover cure, the Vietnamese restaurant. Just ask for an iced coffee and noodle soup at Pho and Sushi in Winston-Salem certainly is a silver bullet after a bender.
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Old Gold & Black | Freshman Issue
Out and about: queer life at Wake Forest How best to take advantage of the Wake Forest experience as a queer student BY AINE PIERRE News Editor pierav20@wfu.edu
Whether you’re loud, proud and out; still in the closet; or even questioning parts of your identity, navigating queer identity at Wake Forest can be as difficult as not falling off Rainbow Road in MarioKart (forgive me, I had to). But it doesn’t have to be that way. Here are five tips to make the most of the Wake Forest queer experience. Find Community Community is important for any college freshman. There will be a lot of pressure (a lot of pressure) to find your forever group of friends in the first five minutes of your Wake Forest experience. And that may happen! If it does not, though, do not be discouraged. Ultimately, seeking out community, especially at designated queer spaces on campus, is a great first step to making meaningful connections that will become so important over the next four years and beyond. Wake Forest is, at least on its face, overwhelmingly cisgender and straight. Finding other queer people may seem like a lost cause by day three, but you will find them. There are also some amazing allies on campus that will be valuable friends, as well. Find the people who love you for all that you are and nothing less.
The LGBTQ+ center is a great place to start. Led by AJ Mazaris and Kayla Lisenby-Denson (who are amazing, by the way), the center hosts events open to all students — from allies to those questioning to those who are screaming their queerness from the rooftops. The Center also hosts identity spaces, such as T Time (for trans students), Lavender Menace (for sapphic students) and QTPOC Connections (for queer and trans students of color). These identity spaces are safe spaces that you can go to for community, even if you are not out!
questions you are having. Also, feel free to experiment with identities! If you think a new set of pronouns might fit, go for it. Want to try a new form of gender expression? Go for it! Want to make out with a cute person from a gender you’re not usually attracted to? This is college, go for it (with the other person’s consent, of course). Lean into the chaos, you will be glad you did. Don’t let anyone, and I mean anyone, dull your sparkle
Shame is a powerful weapon in society’s arsenal against queer people. People will both consciously and unconsciously tell you that who you are is wrong or makes you lesser than someone who is not queer. Do not listen to them. You are wonderful just the way you are, and in college, you will grow to be even more wonderful. You are right where you belong, and if anyone tells you otherwise, they’re flat out lying. Welcome to Wake Forest, baby queers. We’re so happy to have you.
Practice Self-Care With the wave of anti-queer sentiment and legislation that has swept through the United States and infected social media, taking time to check in on your mental wellbeing has become even more important. The counselors in the Counseling Center are fairly queer competent — and have some very good referral recommendations for queerpositive counseling outside of Wake Forest’s gates. The counseling center also offers a queer therapy group, which can be very helpful. Take time to explore parts of your identity College is a transformational time. Living arrangements change every fouror-so months, friends can come and go, etc. With that — and also with all the new things one learns about themselves in college — can come some serious questions about who you are and how you fit in. Do not shy away from those questions. Take time to sit with them, and talk to people you trust about the
Emily Beauchamp/Old Gold & Black
The LGBTQ+ Center’s lounge is a great place to hang out and meet other queer people. A lot of students basically live there.
Volunteering at Wake Forest and beyond ties through this office to organizations within the Winston-Salem community that have been highly successful in their efforts to alleviate poverty and give meaningful support. Volunteering is one of the most important aspects of student life at Wake BY CONNOR MCNEELY Forest University, and getting involved is Opinion Editor an easy process. mcnecb19@wfu.edu One great place to start is to get involved Although in recent years Wake Forest with most Wake Forest charity events. University has improved its efforts to uplift There are two major events that happen every year, Hit the Bricks, a running event, and Wake N’ Shake, a dancing event — both of which receive campus-wide turnouts and support cancer research. For Greek Life, a major beneficiary of fundraising has been the Ronald McDonald House of Winston-Salem. The organization provides a location for families to stay while their children are receiving medical treatment down the road at the Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center and the Brenner Children’s Hospital. There are also many clubs and service fraternities that engage in both domestic and international missions. APO (Alpha Phi Omega) continues to be a force for positive change in the Winston-Salem Photo Courtesy of Wake Forest University community, as members are committed to Wake N’ Shake, an annual event to raise money for cancer at least 25 hours of community service at research, is always a big hit among Wake Forest students. locations like the Forsyth Animal Shelter
A guide to taking advantage of Wake Forest’s many opportunities to get involved and help people
the Winston-Salem community, there is still work to do to address issues like income inequality, racism, the fight against cancer and climate change, to say nothing of the effects of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic on struggling residents. Luckily, Wake Forest University has made considerable strides in developing volunteer and charitable organizations — the most notable being the Office of Civic and Community Engagement. We have
and the Campus Garden. The International Justice Mission (IJM) has established a chapter at Wake Forest and its members have been organizing fundraisers to help fight modern-day slavery. Wake Forest University has given you the tools to fight for justice and to give aid to the mission you are most passionate about. Whether you would like to help protect our natural resources by residing in the University’s sustainable housing, or if you desire to share the knowledge your $80,000 education has taught you with students who haven’t been given a chance in neglected public schools, you will have the opportunity to do so. The research skills and educational power you hold will also help you locate outside opportunities to make a difference. There are some organizations doing great work, like the Triad Abolition Project, which is fighting for racial justice. Our motto “Pro Humanitate” will only take a serious meaning when you make volunteering one of the pillars of your college career. Opportunities like the ones offered at Wake Forest will only lead to a vast enriching of the social, professional and internal aspects of your life. I encourage you all to use your power to improve the world around you.
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Old Gold & Black | Freshman Issue
How to not lose your mind at college Learn the ins and outs of the various mental health resources around campus BY AINE PIERRE News Editor pierav20@wfu.edu Living on one’s own for the first time is exhausting. Between keeping a clean room, making sure you actually eat something every day, keeping up with schoolwork (they don't call this school “Work Forest” for nothing) and balancing any doctor’s appointments you need, things can slip through the cracks fast. Ironically, one of the things that makes this balance easier is often the first to slip through a student’s fingers: mental health and wellbeing. Luckily, Wake Forest and the surrounding community have plenty of resources to help, both in the form of interventions and holistic activities. Here is just a sampling of the things I have found helpful. Interventions — not to be confused with a group of your friends saying that your life is going down the wrong path — is a term used in the world of mental health to mean anything that requires the help of a professional. There is nothing wrong with seeking the help you need for mental health, and anyone who says otherwise is flat out lying to you. College is a time of incredible transformation and personal growth, and not all of that growth is going to be pleasant. The best way to address those mental growing pains (and any
other mental health concerns you might have) is to find a good therapist right off the bat. Finding a good therapist can be a bit of a wild goose chase. The good news is that the first step of your search is maximally one mile from your dorm room at the University Counseling Center (UCC). I would recommend visiting there first no matter what, although if you need weekly appointments, that could be an issue. However, the UCC referred me to an amazing therapist when I had my intake appointment there, and the people on staff there know the surrounding community very well. So, even if you are certain you do not want to see a UCC therapist, go there anyway. The UCC also offers some group therapy sessions, some based around identity and some around certain presenting issues. If that sounds like your scene, go for it. The UCC also has some general wellness programs that focus more on mental fortitude and preventative care rather than curative care. The same advice goes if you are looking for a psychiatrist. Go to the Student Health Center (SHS) first and meet with a psychiatrist there to get started. Waiting times for psychiatrist appointments are fairly awful right now due to many people discovering mental health problems during quarantine, so the likelihood of getting to see an outside psychiatrist before October are slim, unfortunately. So have the SHS psychiatrists get you started, and if you still think an outside psychiatrist will better suit your needs, have that appointment (for October or whatever, ugh) in your back pocket. Finally, if religion is a large part of your life (or if some of your mental health issues come from wrestling with the concept of a higher power), the Office of the
Chaplain has resources for spiritual guidance regardless of faith. Also, religious student associations such as the Muslim Student Association (MSA), Hillel, the Hindu Student Association (HSA), etc. can help point you toward places to worship and outside religious counseling. Finally, if anything mental or physical is impeding your academic experience, the Learning Assistance Center provides incredible help to anyone who needs it, including but not limited to accommodations and professor outreach options. The idea that spending time outside can cure a mental ailment is ridiculous, but getting out in the sunlight and finding community can certainly supplement mental health treatment. Wake Forest has some amazing outdoor spaces that can serve as places of quiet reflection and rejuvenation. For example, Reynolda Gardens, located in Reynolda Village, is a wonderful place to be among nature, meditate and forget one’s cares for a while. Volunteering at the Campus Garden can also help get you closer to nature. The importance of finding community at Wake Forest cannot be overstated. Community can take many forms, and all of them are important, but belonging to organizations that are doing work you care about (like the Old Gold & Black) can be crucial to mental wellbeing. Culture groups are also a great way to stay connected to others who share your roots, especially if not many people on campus share those roots. There is so much about the college experience that is in flux, it can be helpful to stay connected to a little bit of home, or keep a few of those roots you planted in your first 18-19 years of life.
Learning to navigate while Black at a PWI BSA President shares tips on finding an identity support staff to optimize your experience at Wake Forest BY JACOB THOMAS President of the Black Student Alliance thomjr18@wfu.edu
Although my high school was a predominantly white institution (PWI), there is no doubt I experienced a culture shock when first stepping on Wake Forest’s campus. Finding and building community on campus was difficult with social barriers ranging from academic rigor to the predominance of traditionally white Greek life. Halfway through my first year, I began to fully appreciate what Wake Forest has to offer. It was not until I immersed myself in different multicultural organizations and took advantage of the myriad of opportunities available that I began to truly build community. In this piece, I hope to offer a bit of advice to ease the transition to college while acknowledging the reality of being Black at a PWI. While there is no set period of time nor formula by which you are guaranteed to find your stride, rest assured that there is likely a social niche here for you. As a Black first-year, it is easy to look at other people and worry they have an established group when in reality most friend groups in college are open and dynamic. To some degree, you have to look inwards to know where and with whom you feel comfortable. It’s important to acknowledge that meaningful relationships are organic and can start anywhere, whether it be a party, the Intercultural Center (IC) or the classroom. Of course, I’m inclined to shamelessly plug the Black Student Alliance (BSA) events as a great place to start meeting other diverse students — you can find our events listed on Instagram @wfu_bsa. Additionally, there is a lot of socialization that occurs
in the first-year residence halls, so reach out and build connections with those who live near you and some fun opportunities may ensue. Whether it is caused by academic or social pressure, there will be times when you are likely to experience imposter syndrome, or a fundamental skepticism of your own talents and capabilities. To further complicate matters, receiving ample support may feel like a weighty undertaking as a Black student. Know that you do belong and you are not alone on this journey. Many have come before us, and many will follow. Although some first-years might be intimidated by the upperclassmen, it was not long ago that we were in your shoes. Most of us are more than
Photo courtesy of Katie Fox/Old Gold & Black
happy to offer you advice, discuss our experiences or grab lunch when asked. Perhaps even wiser than the upperclassmen are the Black alumni, faculty and staff willing to guide you through. When you have questions about something, don’t hesitate to reach out — we will help you. Now that you know you have a support system in place, let’s talk about how you can thrive at this PWI. When I was a first-year, a senior offered me some advice that stuck with me: finesse. Interpret that how you may — but don’t get caught up. Let me expand on his thought a bit: seek out and take advantage of the multitudinous opportunities Wake Forest has to offer. There are programs and fellowships to travel virtually anywhere you can imagine. Students here come from a wide range of places and backgrounds. Professors that conduct research in nearly every field are at your fingertips. If you dream it and work for it, you can make it happen. It is increasingly important you know that the opportunities and funding are often there if you look in the right places. Again, don’t be afraid to ask for help. In college, every student faces trials and tribulations. Of course, marginalization can amplify and nuance those unfavorable incidents. Protect your peace, stay the course and lean into the growth that you are bound to experience from the unrivaled opportunities here. The Black upperclassmen, alumni, faculty and staff are rooting for you. We are excited to welcome you to campus shortly and usher you into the next chapter of your life. It’s okay to be a little disoriented and overwhelmed when you arrive, but try to derive a thrill from the novelty of it all. Know that your journey here will be exciting, unique to you and unforgettable. P.S. If you need anything, please feel free to reach out to me, or the other members of the BSA executive team via email or Instagram Direct Message.
Page 8 | Thursday, August 19, 2021
Old Gold & Black | Freshman Issue
Previewing Wake Forest’s athletic teams With the fall season around the corner, take a look at the teams taking the field BY ESSEX THAYER Sports Editor thayse20@wfu.edu
Class of 2025, Welcome to Wake Forest! In case you didn’t know already, our Division 1 teams are competitive across the board. In fact, some of our programs are among the most successful in the country and perennial contenders come championship season. Here, I invite you to familiarize yourself with the recent history of some of Wake Forest’s fall and winter sports teams so you›re all caught up come gametime. With the fall season right around the corner, there isn’t a moment to spare. Enjoy, and Go Deacs! Football Last season’s record: 4-5 (3-4 ACC) Wake Forest football is the dominating fixture of Demon Deacon athletics. Despite the challenges presented by the pandemic and injuries to some key players, the football team put together a respectable season last fall. The season culminated with the Demon Deacons returning to a bowl game for the fifth straight season, though they fell at the hands of the Wisconsin Badgers. Despite the numerous obstacles faced, Wake Forest was still able post their highest points per game average in school history last year. On the offensive side of the ball, the Demon Deacons return virtually their entire starting roster, including redshirt sophomore quarterback Sam Hartman. Last year, the 2020 Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award Watch List member completed 58% of his passes for 2224 yards and 13 touchdowns. Behind Hartman at running back, redshirt junior Christian Beal-Smith returns as one part of the dynamic duo that wreaked havoc on opposing defenses in 2020 (Beal-Smith’s counterpart, Kenneth Walker III, transferred to Michigan State in the offseason). During last year’s redshirt sophomore season, the back rushed for a team high 770 yards, but only registered five of Wake Forest’s 22 rushing touchdowns. At wideout, the Demon Deacons return last season’s breakout star, redshirt junior Jaquarii Roberson. After receiving very few targets in his first two seasons, Roberson found himself in the spotlight in 2020, pulling in 62 catches for 926 yards and eight touchdowns. His performance earned him second-team All American honors. This year’s defense is highlighted by another storyline from last year — Nick Anderson — the walk-on freshman safety who intercepted three passes in Wake Forest’s win over No. 19 Virginia Tech. Replacing second round NFL-draft pick Boogie Basham
on the front seven will be a tall order, but redshirt sophomore Rondell Bothroyd and freshman Jasheen Davis are tabbed to fill the defensive end spot. The Demon Deacons open up their 2021 campaign at home on Sept. 3 against Old Dominion. They begin conference play at home against Florida State on Sept. 18. Wake Forest will also travel to face one of last year’s College Football Playoff members, Clemson, on Nov. 20. Men’s Soccer: Last season’s record: 7-1-2 in the spring (3-0-2 ACC) In a season that could best be described as different, with the NCAA Championship being played in the spring as opposed to the fall, Wake Forest once again proved they are one of the best teams in the nation. Despite losing multiple players after the fall season to professional leagues, the Demon Deacons were able to cobble together a roster that included several freshman, sophomores and even a few early enrollees that took them all the way to the semifinals of the NCAA Tournament, where they lost to North Carolina. From that inexperienced, yet successful, semifinal team, Wake Forest returns every player from their starting lineup. Redshirt sophomore starting goalkeeper Cole McNally is back between the posts after a stellar spring campaign. The team also returns their entire starting back four, which consists of sophomores Jahlane Forbes, Nico Benalcazar, Garrison Tubbs and Prince Amponsah. Benalcazar was a second-team Top XI selection by Top Drawer Soccer last season. In the middle of the field, redshirt junior Jake Swallen, juniors Omar Hernandez and Takuma Suzuki and sophomores Hosie Kajima and Christian Escribano are the likely starters. Hernandez scored the secondmost goals on the team last year with six. At the top, senior forward Kyle Holcomb, last year’s highest scorer (nine goals), is back. The Demon Deacons begin the season with two exhibition matches. The second of these games is against Coastal Carolina on Aug. 21, and will be the first at Spry Stadium in which fans are allowed. The first nonexhibition match of the season will also come at home on Aug. 26 against Virginia Commonwealth. Men’s Basketball: Last season’s record: 6-16 (3-15 ACC) Last season was a transitional year for the Demon Deacons under firstyear Head Coach Steve Forbes, who came to Winston-Salem after years of success at East Tennessee State University. The year began on a promising note, with Wake Forest taking down Delaware State by 60 points in their first game of the season. Two days later, they beat
Longwood University by ten. That game, due to a COVID-19 outbreak within the team, would be the final game the team would play for over a month. After that long of a break, the team struggled to return to the winning ways that Forbes’ teams are known for. After winning by eight against Catawba, a Division 2 team, the Deacs faltered throughout the majority of the remainder of their season. The team’s season ended in heartbreaking fashion in the first round of the ACC Tournament, losing to Notre Dame on a buzzer beater. In his first full summer at the helm, Forbes has completely retooled the team. Of the 13 scholarship players on the team, only four return from the previous season — freshman guard Carter Whitt, senior guard Daivien Williamson, senior forward Isaiah Mucius and redshirt sophomore forward Tariq Ingraham. Whitt, who played in the spring as an early enrollee, is a member of a five-person freshman class that includes guards Lucas Taylor, Robert McCray and the No. 1 recruit in England, Cameron Hildreth. At the forward position, English recruit Matthew Marsh recently committed to the Demon Deacons, and should be ready to play in the upcoming season. Lastly, Wake Forest made massive moves in the transfer window securing the services of grad transfers Alondes Williams from Oklahoma, Dallas Walton from Colorado and Khadim Sy from Ole Miss. Jake Laravia from Indiana State, has two years left of eligibility. The last of the transfers, Damari Montsanto, the Freshman
So-Con Player of the Year from East Tennessee, underwent season-ending surgery nearly a month ago. Wake Forest has yet to release their 2021 schedule. Women’s Basketball: Last season’s record: 12-13 (8-10 ACC) The Wake Forest Women’s Basketball team was one of the brightest stories of the year, returning to the NCAA Tournament for their first time since 1988 when their head coach, Jen Hoover, was a player on the team. The two biggest role players from last year›s team (and two of the biggest names in team history) — Ivana Raca and Gina Conti — are both no longer with the team. Conti, who was expected to move to the pros, surprisingly transferred to UCLA in the offseason; Raca was drafted with the No. 28 pick in the WNBA Draft by the Los Angeles Sparks. Despite the losses, the Demon Deacons do return three of their five starters — freshman guard Jewel Spear and sophomore forwards Alexandria Scruggs and Olivia Summiel. Spear broke out for Wake Forest last winter. Her campaign included a 29-point performance in the ACC Tournament against North Carolina. She spent this summer playing with the USA U-19 Team. With Conti and Raca no longer donning black and gold, there is a lot of uncertainty surrounding this team in the upcoming season. While the road will be tough, the precedent has been set and the team will be eying a return to the NCAA Tournament. As with the men’s program, the women’s schedule has yet to be released.
Photo courtesy of Wake Forest Athletics
Christian Beal-Smith returns to the Demon Deacon offense for another year after leading the team with 770 rushing yards.
Freshman Issue|Old Gold & Black
Thursday, August 19, 2021| Page 9
Demon Deacons representing in the pros Watching a professional sporting event? Odds are high that you will spot a former Demon Deacon BY BEN CONROY Print Managing Editor conrbd19@wfu.edu It seems like a Wake Forest athlete makes a headline in the world of professional sports seemingly every other day. The university has produced a plethora of outstanding athletes throughout its decorated history — here are some of the Demon Deacons to keep an eye on in professional sports today. Chris Paul- Point Guard, Phoenix Suns Chris Paul is perhaps the most renowned of all of Wake Forest’s athletic alums. His storied career reached a new zenith this summer when he led the Phoenix Suns to a Western Conference Finals victory and an appearance in the NBA Finals, his first ever showing on basketball’s biggest stage. Though the Suns were defeated by the Milwaukee Bucks in six games, Paul posted series averages of 21.8 ppg, 8.2 apg and 2.7 rpg. Paul will return to Phoenix next season to chase that elusive ring, as he recently signed a four-year, $120 million dollar contract. Jeff Teague- Guard, Milwaukee Bucks Teague and the Bucks squared off against Paul’s Suns in this year’s NBA Finals. Though Teague didn’t see much on-court action, his team was victorious, and the 12-year veteran collected his first NBA championship. Teague boasts career averages of 12.2 points, 5.6 assists
and 2.4 rebounds per game. He signed with the Bucks in the middle of the 2020-2021 NBA season prior to the team›s playoff run, and his future is unclear. John Wolford- QB, Los Angeles Rams Wolford enters this season in the NFL as the Los Angeles Rams’ backup behind Matthew Stafford, coming off a year in which he made his first NFL start in Week 17 of the 2020-2021 season against the Arizona Cardinals. His task was simple: win, and the Rams make the playoffs. Lose, and the season is over. Wolford got the job done, throwing for 231 yards and leading the Rams to an 18-7 victory. Kendall Hinton- WR, Denver Broncos Kendall Hinton was merely a practice squad player for the Broncos last season — until he wasn’t. When COVID-19 decimated the team’s quarterback room in November 2020, Hinton’s number was called to make the start at QB, a position he hadn’t played since his college days at Wake Forest. Though the team lost in blowout fashion, Hinton’s appearance in the game goes down as one of the most memorable in recent NFL history. He is listed as an active member of the Broncos’ roster heading into this season.
where he is currently battling for a roster spot in training camp. Newman was also not selected in the draft, but he signed with the Philadelphia Eagles soon after the draft wrapped up. Gavin Sheets- RF, DH, 1B, Chicago White Sox Selected in the second round of the 2017 MLB Draft by the White Sox, Sheets recently made the jump up to the majors from Chicago’s minor league system. So far this year, he has totaled 20 hits and six home runs with a .225 average. Will Zalatoris- PGA Tour Zalatoris burst onto the PGA Tour scene in April 2021, capturing a solo second finish at the 2021 Masters during his first appearance in the tournament. The 24-year-old posted a -9 finish over four days, demonstrating gutsy play and impressive composure against one of the toughest fields in all of golf. Other notable finishes in Zalatoris’ young career include an impressive T6 outcome at the 2020 U.S. Open and a T5 result at the 2021 Shriners Hospitals for Children Open.
Other Notables: DE Boogie Basham, WR Sage Surratt, QB Jamie Newman
Basham, Surratt and Newman were all Wake Forest football standouts and are all members of this year’s NFL rookie class. Basham was taken late in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft by the Buffalo Bills and is listed as the backup right defensive end on their roster. Surratt went undrafted and was picked up by the Detroit Lions
Photo courtesy of Wake Forest Athletics
Exposé: Breaking the official tour guide NDA Take this tour guide’s advice on how to navigate the intricacies and secrets of campus BY COOPER SULLIVAN Asst. News Editor sullcg20@wfu.edu
You just moved into your Babcock double, you’ve hugged your parents goodbye and now you are ready to start that perfect college experience your tour guide told you about. About that. Let me remind you that we tour guides are salesmen. And just like the realtor that doesn’t mention the neighbor with countless loud dogs or the car dealer that conveniently forgets about the vehicle’s whopping 11 miles per gallon, we too have a few details we steer clear of. But since we closed the sale, I guess you can know a few of the secrets. Work Forest Rule #1 in the Tour Guide Training Packet is to never mention “Work Forest”. The second rule? Never mention “Work Forest”. Actually, the first two rules are to be friendly and show up on time. But we do try to steer clear of this intimidating moniker. The jump from high school to college is a difficult one, especially in the classroom. You may feel so overwhelmed with living on your own and juggling all these new relationships that your humanities divisional goes to the wayside. While a slip may be okay for a few days, it is far too easy to continue the downward descent and even harder to recover. Speaking from experience, trying to catch up on a month’s worth of lectures a day before the final is not fun, nor does it work. Here are some tips to make sure you won’t be
visiting “Work Forest” anytime soon. Find a routine. Whether it’s the ZSR library, Farrell Hall, a random classroom in Tribble or that beautiful desk next to your Twin XL, everyone has their favorite study spot. It may take some time for you to find out what works best for you. But once you figure it out, it will be much easier to get into productive rhythms and get ahead of the curve. Use your resources. Contrary to popular belief, your professors don’t want to fail you. Make sure you go to office hours. Even if you don’t have questions, get to know your professors and have them get to know you. This will come in handy when you need that .01% grade boost. And if you need extra help that office hours can’t fix, visit the various tutoring centers on campus. Dorm Cleanliness (Or Lack Thereof ) One of the things that tour guides like to point out is our brand new freshmen dorm, Angelou Hall. High ceilings, sinks in every room, it’s practically a hotel! Well, if Angelou and South are Marriotts, then Johnson and Bostwick are that seedy, one-story nameless roadside motel with flickering street lights and a perpetually rocking rocking chair. All the dorms have had renovations in the last decade, but no worries, that rustic 60s feel is still there. While I can’t confirm or deny some rumors from years past, I can tell you my own Johnson story from last year. My pipes were rusted orange, the basement routinely flooded, cockroaches inhabited the empty single and I developed such a nasty cough my first two weeks that I got shipped off to the quarantine hotel. Now I’m not saying these are guarantees, you may even get the luck of the draw. But there are a few ways to prevent any of these from happening. Invest in an air
purifier — at the very least it muffles the loud music of your neighbor at 1 a.m. Put a DampRid in the closet to soak up any humidity and prevent mold. Open the window every once in a while to let fresh air in, so you don’t overwork your A/C and have to call maintenance. Keep a bottle of Raid close by. And for the love of God, wear shower shoes. My Hot, Packed, Greek Basement Some people may read this and get excited about all the partying they’ll get to do over the next four years. Others may think spending weekends in a sauna-like basement is not their red Solo Cup of tea. And both are totally cool. You’re going to have friends in both of these camps: maybe you'll even join them. Don’t rush into rush based on what you hear from these “formal sources” GreekRank, College Confidential, the parent Facebook group, etc. Make sure you talk to people, fellow students and get the inside scoop of what actually goes on from Greek group to Greek group. And if you find that the frats and sororities aren’t for you, there are plenty of other social groups around campus. Club sports, service clubs and professional groups are just the tip of the iceberg. No matter what group you find to be the one for you, make the most of it. Don’t let these “secrets” discourage you. Remember why you chose Wake Forest in the first place. Maybe it was the super awesome and funny tour guide who swung you over the fence, but it’s the campus, the people and the community that brought you here and brings everyone even closer together. So take these pieces of advice or don’t, just have a good time. And please don’t think you can hide a cat in your dorm room. Just please don’t.
Page 10 | Thursday, August 19, 2021
Old Gold & Black | Freshman Issue
Navigating profs and office hours The fundamental building block for success is the fostering of interpersonal relationships BY SELINNA TRAN Life Editor transn19@wfu.edu
Entering Wake Forest, I had preconceived notions that are similar to many of my peers’ experiences, where high school teachers and counselors had warned us of the terrors of college and higher education — along with the unrelenting apathy of professors at these institutions. These notions were a stark contrast to the professors that I encountered. While each professor is different, and some are revered for their kindness and others their harshness. I felt that professors at Wake Forest had the goal of academic excellence and worked with the students to achieve this. One of the most important pieces of advice that a professor gave me my freshman year of college is that, “You put in what you get out: garbage in, garbage out.” That is a lesson that has remained true throughout my experience thus far. Professors do not want to see students fail and there are ample resources to help a student succeed in their academic endeavors — with the stipulation that the student also puts in the effort.
I stress that one of the fundamental There is a reason that Wake Don’t be afraid to reach out — trust building blocks for success is Forest’s nickname is “Work Forest,” me — I’ve had my fair share of anxiety the fostering of interpersonal because the spirit of hardworking and fright toward attending office relationships between students, and dedicated students make up hours or admitting that I needed help, faculty and the campus community. the student body and the campus but professors at Wake Forest are here The bridge to building these environment. Arrive to class with to help and you shouldn’t hesitate relationships stem from an important this mindset and you will be set up to communicate. Ultimately, Wake aspect of one’s college experience: for success in and outside of the Forest provides so many resources office hours. Often overlooked or classroom. Gestures such as extending and opportunities to have a successful mentioned fleetingly by your college gratitude towards your professor, experience in the classroom, and your tour guide, the importance of office participating in class or reaching out hours should be established during with an email go a long way toward professor is one of the first resources fostering the crucial relationship and that will jumpstart your academic the beginning of the semester. journey. It is an opportunity wasted not foundation for a community. to take advantage of the time and resources offered during a professor’s office hours. This time gives students the ability to engage with the material on a personal level, building a connection with their professors in the process. Even if a course’s content seems to be effortless, the establishment of this relationship builds the foundation for support later on in the course or even later on in one’s life. Communication is crucial for having a beneficial experience inside and outside of the classroom. Engaging in the classroom allows students to better understand the content, and building the foundation of communication allows for help in the event that it is needed. Being an active and focused participant in Photo courtesy of Katie Fox classrooms will benefit you in the long run, because what you put into In order to set yourself up best for success at Wake Forest, the course is what you will get out. build relationships with your teachers and fellow students.
Managing your money at Wake Forest The Old Gold & Black’s very own business manager gives financial advice to students BY CHARLIE BENEDICT Business Manager benecc19@wfu.edu
For some, starting college is the first time you have to manage your money (and in some instances, be financially independent). Now as a student, you have some built in cushions — a prepaid meal plan, prepaid housing, etc. These training wheels mean you won’t starve or become homeless just because you spent too much at Target, but it’d still be beneficial for you to pick up some basic personal finance skills in college. Obviously, everyone’s financial situation is different — from completely depending on your parents to being totally independent, and everything in between. Unfortunately I can’t cater to everyone’s unique financial needs in 600 words, so I’ll just do my best to provide advice that will be applicable to nearly everyone. First, some generic basics. Wells Fargo is the only bank with ATMs on
campus, and therefore the best bank to have. There’s an ATM outside Benson University Center and one outside Subway. Gentlemen, Dean Shore (the on-campus barber) only takes cash. Cash is also the best way to bribe professors, as most are too primordial to have Venmo. You’ve probably already been tricked into having an upgraded meal plan, but the base level is really fine. I love to eat and I’ve more than managed on the base plan for two years. Just be diligent about using your Pit Swipes and don’t blow through all your Old Golds too early. Third, and this one’s important, never, ever buy textbooks when renting is an option. You may think you’ll want to keep your Medieval Japanese history textbook, but trust me, you won’t. Buy/rent your books sooner rather than later before they run out of used ones. Try your absolute best to avoid parking tickets. Parking & Transportation writes up tickets at a shockingly efficient rate, and they are expensive. It’s basically how the school is funded. Since I’m a boy, I only really spend money on food. That’s one of the only things I am educated about, and therefore the thing I feel qualified to give advice on.
POD snacks and drinks are way overpriced. Avoid when possible and instead buy things in bulk from Target. It’s nice to have food from Target to snack on at 1 or 2 a.m. so you don’t have to pay $24.95 for some DoorDashed CookOut. Try to limit your off-campus meals and use your food plan as much as possible. Be smart with your Old Golds, don’t use them at Starbucks or Einstein’s. Shorty’s is a pretty bad deal now that they revamped the Old Gold section, but they do have the best alcohol on campus (only for those of age, of course). When you go to Subway, load up your sandwiches if you get an Old Gold. It’s the same price if you get 1 topping or 10, so go crazy. My personal Subway trick (The Subway Sneak, trademark pending) is to ask the first lady for a six-inch ham sandwich. Then ask for an egg and whatever else you want on it. When you get to the register and the second lady asks what you got, you tell them a ham, egg, and cheese. That’s under the breakfast menu and which costs $3.29 as opposed to the standard $4.99. You can then just throw away the egg (it’s really terrible, don’t try to eat
it). Do that three times and you just got a free sandwich. I would also recommend, at some point in your freshman year, to look for a job, on-campus or not. Not only does money coming in help offset money going out, but it’s also good for the resume and expanding your personal network. The university hires lots of students for various tasks. From sitting in the library, to sitting in the gym, to sitting in Benson, you can get paid to sit in variety of places on campus. Once you have a semester or two under your belt, you can be a TA or tutor, which is a paid job. Offcampus employment is also another option, but it’s not as convenient. And finally, the esteemed and widely beloved Old Gold & Black pays its writers and editors a whopping $15 an article. Not only is it actually a good job, but you get to deal with me during the very complicated process of hiring you as an employee of the school. You’re going to learn a lot at Wake Forest and learning how to manage your money is one of the most important. Be smart and use those big brains.
Thursday, August 19, 2021 | Page 11
Freshman Issue |Old Gold & Black
To Rush Or Not To Rush? Pro-Greek
BY CHRISTINA DENOVIO Sports Editor denoca20@wfu.edu
RUSH: At many schools across the country, college freshmen and sophomores are diving head first into the intimidating Greek life process. Young men and women go through various experiences, good and bad, in hopes of getting a bid from their favorite fraternity or sorority. Everyone’s heard the stories of intimidating girls chanting Greek letters on a loop or boys pressuring their pledges to do ridiculous or downright dehumanizing tasks. Many college students decide the rush process and entire concept of Greek life is not for them. I fully understand those students who do not believe joining a frat or sorority would be beneficial to their college experience, but, I know that for many people, Greek life is what makes their college years so special. Wake Forest is an amazing university on its own, as it gives students the opportunity to explore many different academic paths, extracurricular activities and social experiences. The university’s incorporation of Greek culture is just one of these wonderful opportunities. Due to the structure, Wake Forest freshmen are allowed an entire semester of familiarizing themselves with the campus and creating new friendships before they even have to decide whether or not to rush in January. Though the majority of students at Wake Forest are members of Greek organizations, the university encourages concentrations apart from Greek life through delaying the process to the winter, encouraging on campus living through junior year and offering a variety of extracurriculars that both Greek affiliated and nonGreek affiliated students take part in. Why do so many students choose to rush? I cannot speak for every girl in a sorority (and certainly not for young men in fraternities), but having a built-
in support system is one of the biggest advantages of being a member of Greek life. Coming from an all-girls school, which I spent 10 years at, I knew that I wanted to be a member of a sorority for the same reason I felt so comfortable and had so much love for my school: sisterhood. I believe that the all-girl environment allows the members to be their truest selves and bond with each other. Though the rush process was emotionally taxing and difficult at times, it works quite well. Not everyone in each sorority is the same, but the sororities do a fantastic job at recruiting girls who would fit into their culture the most comfortably. Immediately after rush week, which most students can agree is not easy, the new pledge class is welcomed with excitement and full support. There is a true sense of pride knowing that you were wanted in such an amazing group of people. During the second semester of my freshman year, I felt much more integrated into the Wake Forest community. I was not just a floater, but instead a member of a group. I made strong connections with many of the other girls in my pledge class. The majority of us had all finished rush with the same goal: to meet as many other girls in our sorority as possible and create strong friendships. It was only then that I realized how successful the rush process is at recruiting members to the proper organizations. I met several girls with lots of similarities and were incredibly easy to connect with. I’ve only truly been a member of my sorority for one semester on campus, but I’m already so grateful that I chose to rush and picked (and was picked by) the right sorority. I’ll reiterate that rush and Greek life aren’t for everyone, but in my experience, much more good comes from stepping out of your comfort zone and keeping an open mind.
BY KATIE FOX Photo Editor foxkg19@wfu.edu
Pro-GDI
As a first year student at Wake, hearing the statistics about 50% of students participating in Greek life on campus can be overwhelming and misleading. Online forums will tell you it’s impossible to escape sororities and fraternities in the social scene and while interaction with the Greek community is inevitable, rushing does not have to define your Wake Forest experience. One of the main motivators for going Greek is finding friends in the sea of freshmen who you may or may not have anything in common with, and narrowing down commonalities can be daunting. The rush process narrows it down somewhat, but there are a number of less taxing alternatives to consider first. During your first semester (and beyond), exploring different groups that align with your interests can introduce you to new friends. Finding your community is important whether or not you decide to rush, so take advantage of the involvement fair and club recruitment as much as possible. The first friends I made on campus were through my a cappella group, and others I found taking photos for the yearbook and working for the OGB. Although I’m no longer close with my freshman hall, living in a residential engagement community my sophomore year presented a lot of opportunities to network and meet new people. I know a lot of individuals who found their people volunteering for local community service projects such as Campus Kitchen, playing intramural sports, pursuing campus ministry or joining clubs that center around their identity like BSA, MSA and more. You can also make friends by attending campus events such as the Wayward Fashion Show or plays put on by the Theatre department and AAP. Another reason people rush is for the networking
opportunities, but Wake Forest provides a range of resources for career development. If you’re rush-hesitant but still want connections, I would encourage you to check out the OPCD and classes led by experts like Professor Heidi Robinson through the College to Career series in the Education department. Although I never had interest in Greek life, I didn’t want to rush for three main reasons. First, it can be an expensive financial investment to be in a sorority or fraternity, from dues to fines to ‘optional’ additions to your wardrobe, money is an important factor to consider. Second, it’s a big investment of your time to attend chapter meetings, date functions, philanthropy events and recruitment workshops. The phrase, “I’m only here so I don’t get fined,” extends beyond pro sports to mandatory social events. Finally, conforming to the demands of standards boards sounds exhausting, from the constant monitoring of social media accounts to specific rules about letters and secret rituals. It’s just not my cup of tea. Greek life does not have to be a negative experience — if it were, I’m sure over 50% of campus wouldn’t pay semesterly dues for a few date functions and multicolored Chuck Taylors. This said, my college experience has been phenomenal without Greek life and I know a lot of girls who ended up disaffiliating from their chapters due to frustration with monetary commitments, fellow members and a variety of other reasons. There are a number of other problematic practices I won’t get into, but one girl’s trash is another girl’s treasure. Do your research, follow your gut and things will work out the way they are meant to. If that means you will find your place in Greek life, cool. If it means you will find your way without Greek life, even better! (In my humble, slightly biased opinion, that is).
Page 12 | Thursday, August 19, 2021
Old Gold & Black | Freshman Issue
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Thursday, August 19, 2021 | Page 13
Freshman Issue | Old Gold & Black
W-S dining on and off campus Looking for a list of the best food on and off campus to start your semester off right? These are all the best eats, according to specialty BY JAKE STUART Assistant Sports Editor stuaja20@wfu.edu
ON CAMPUS: Best in Benson Award: Chick-fil-A Notoriously known for late night milkshakes, the Old Gold No. 1 (if you don’t know already, you soon will) and waffle fry frenzies, this classic hits the spot every single time. It’s a guarantee you’ll be stocking up on Chick-fil-A sauce by the end of the first semester. Enjoy responsibly. Best Dining Hall: North Campus Dining Hall (North Pit) One of the top rated dining halls in the country, North Dining Hall is not your traditional buffet. It is a more laid-back alternative to the Pit, combining a modern dining experience with fresh and healthy menu choices. While the Pit is more lively, the North dining hall offers better food. Best Coffee Shop: Camino Bakery Start your day off right with a coffee and a sweet or savory pastry. It’s not just coffee that Camino serves — the staff is incredible and will go out of their way to make your experience memorable. Best on the Quad: Zick’s Ranked No.1 in Winston-Salem for their flatbread pizza, Zick’s also offers scrumptious desserts and other selections. Try the s’mores pizza — it is worth every single calorie. Their chicken tenders, wings and salads are also top notch. Expect longer waits, but the pool table and view of Wait Chapel make up for it. Hidden Gem: Magnolia Room This fine dining spot offers food that will make you question whether you’re eating on a college campus or a pricey steakhouse. Once a week, the Mag room serves a premium dinner. Also, they have ice cream socials for lunch on Fridays!
OFF CAMPUS: Best Barbecue: Camel City BBQ Factory Quite possibly the best meal I’ve had during my Wake Forest experience, Camel City will fill you up and then some. Get the two meat platters with ribs fresh off the smoker and brisket that will take your breath away. Hush puppies are included along with two sides (the mac and cheese and brisket baked beans are the way to go). Good luck finishing it all. Best Southern Cuisine: Cin Cin Burger Bar This spot earns the reputation of best Southern cuisine, purely off its legendary chicken and waffles. Opened in 2016 by the Michael Family restaurant group, Cin Cin is located just outside downtown Winston-Salem. The gold digger’s mac & cheese, speakeasy burgers and pimento cheese plate further cement this restaraunts spot at the top. Top off your meal with one of their signature shakes — you won’t regret it! Best Pizza: Cugino Forno Just three miles from campus, Cugino Forno is a lively spot on Fridays and Saturdays. The pizzeria was started by three cousins from a small town in Turkey and opened in 2019. The trio spent time in Naples learning from legendary pizzaiolos. In fact, 80% of the ingredients are imported from Italy and cooked in a 900 degree oven containing stone from Mt.Vesuvius.
Katie Fox/Old Gold & Black
Chick-fil-A is a campus favorite. The Benson location offers several Old Gold options.
Best Steak: Ryan’s Bring your parents to this sizzlin’ steakhouse, a WinstonSalem classic for over 40 years. The lobster cakes and mac & cheese are to die for, and the caprese salad is next level. The mouth-watering steaks will take you to heaven and back, just don’t stare at the bill for too long. Make sure to get a reservation in advance of this world-class meal. Best Burger: Hops Burger Bar Home of the create-your-own style burgers served on pretzel buns. The patties are hand-pressed and cooked to perfection on a searing hot flat-top grill. Avoid long waits by going on a weekday! Best Asian: Thai Harmony Run by mother-daughter duo Nui |38| and Aratporn Ruangrat |65| from Bangkok, Thailand, Thai Harmony offers a wide selection of Thai cuisine along with sushi rolls and Chinese dishes. Personal favorites include the crab rangoons, Thai fried rice and pad Thai. It is open for both lunch and dinner, seven days a week.
Katie Fox/Old Gold & Black
Zick’s is known for its flatbreads, salads, chicken tenders and entertainment space.
Best Fast Food: Cookout This southern joint would take the prize as best ‘bang for your buck’ and is undoubtedly the top fast food in Winston-Salem. While an argument could be made for Bojangles here, Cookout’s malty milkshakes are unmatched. For those above the Mason-Dixon line, this legendary late-night classic will take your breath — and your hunger — away. R.I.P. Crafted: As of July 2021, Crafted-The Art of the Taco announced that it was closing its restaurant in WinstonSalem. The student-favorite served primarily tacos, burgers and craft beers. The restaurant was understaffed and unable to meet the demands of the customers. Crafted lovers can still enjoy the foodie experience at the location in Greensboro, just a 30 minute drive from Winston-Salem. Bonus Tip: Follow @Deacon__Deats on Instagram for all your Wake Katie Fox/Old Gold & Black Forest sweet tooth and dining needs. The duo of Wake Cookout is a popular late-night fast food spot Forest students, Jess and Waring, post pictures of the best for Wake Forest students, known for its shakes. eats around campus. Trust us, you won’t regret it.
Katie Fox/Old Gold & Black
Wake Forest’s dining halls offer a plethora of food options for the Wake Forest community.
Page 14| Thursday, August 19, 2021
Old Gold & Black | Freshman Issue
Junior reflects on first years of college Student’s advice includes prioritization of mental health, friendship building and a time management BY JOE CHO Asst. Life Editor choyy19@wfu.edu They say that college is a time to truly discover who you are and who you want to be. But the harsh reality is that it is only an infinitesimal fraction of your life. Before you know it, college flies past you like an exotic car on the autobahn. I would know — I am now a third-year Wake Forest student and am turning 21 this December. It feels like just two months ago I was in Luter ready to start this new daunting chapter in my life. Now, I sit here in quarantine reflecting on everything that has happened so far. I still reinvented myself. I still made new friends and memories but in retrospect, not everything was pretty in the midst of self-discovery. Mistakes here and there. A falling out here and there. Good bullet journal goals, bad grades, ugly habits and everything in between. I will tell you from experience, freshman year is tough. Like one of Cher’s classic hits, “If I Could Turn Back Time”, there are things I wish I would have done differently my first year. Therefore, treat me as a failed Russian experiment or a wise sage as I give a comprehensive rundown of the adjustments and realizations I made along the way. I categorized my experiences into five major aspects of college: academics, extracurriculars, health, relationships and community.
Academics - It’s true that Wake Forest sometimes goes by ‘Work Forest’ because of its unwavering efforts to burden many of its students with copious amounts of work and deadlines. Those who overcame this tragedy are time management maestros. Obviously, that wasn’t me and I would always leave everything until the last minute. Since my freshman year, it has been hard to solidify this healthy habit of doing homework as soon as it was assigned and effectively splitting up the workload throughout the week. I also wish I would have gone to more office hours for extra help, since the professors here are very generous and thoughtful when it comes to their students. Lastly, I wish I would have completed my divisional requirements in my first two years because now I have to take four divisional classes as a junior during the most major intensive year of college. Extracurriculars - My only regret during freshman year in this category was not writing for the Old Gold & Black Newspaper sooner. So you should, too! Health - COVID-19 has disrupted our lives so much to the point where physical debilitation is not the only symptom that has plagued us. Mental health has been at an all-time low in the country. My freshman year was cut short because of the virus, but it took a whole pandemic to make me realize that I was unhealthy before the spread. I wish I would have dedicated more time to working out regularly and staying active in the first year, as it benefits both the body and mind. I also wish I had checked out the University Counseling Center and the Learning Assistance Center and Disability Services sooner.
Relationships - In addition to physical and mental health, social health is another crucial part of wellness. In my case, it took me a while to realize that amiability is an important trait to possess because, by the end of the first semester, I only knew a dozen people. I blame my introverted nature, but I do wish I prioritized making meaningful connections more. When it comes to dating, there is no need to rush into a romantic relationship in the first year. I wish I would have waited and experienced more friendships before harboring emotional baggage. Community - Having a community that you belong to is a godsend because like the last category, it benefits your social health. I was reluctant to find a community that I could truly connect with and involve myself in freshman year due to my introversion. I wish I would have found one earlier, especially with people who you can grow with and who can keep you accountable. Take it as you will, but I truly believe that some of the things I have mentioned can be useful insight as you make this trepidatious transition from a high schooler to a college student. So don’t fret because college is yours for the taking. Be wise and courageous and try to brush your teeth at least once a day, please. Lastly, whether you take my word for it or not, I leave you with this vow. From this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer (in Old Golds), in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, as long as the Pit chicken remains uncooked, you are
Traditions define student life on campus Overview of memories at Wake Forest highlights the most important events and experiences at the school BY SELINNA TRAN Life Editor transn19@wfu.edu I recall sitting in a nook in the corner of the third floor of the ZSR library alongside a few friends as we studied for our upcoming exams when we were interrupted by uproarious cheers that could be heard through the opening that reveals the second floor. These cheers were met with the sounds of shoes hitting the floor as students rushed onto the quad to celebrate Wake Forest’s victory over Duke University with the honored tradition of streaming toilet paper all along the quad. This memory is a joyful one and represents the Wake Forest community that I have grown to love. I remember being a wide-eyed student who watched in starstruck wonder at the celebrations around me. While I have never been one to keep up with athletics, I could feel the pride swelling in my heart as everyone around me was cheering, singing and embracing the feeling of being a part of the Wake Forest family. The experience of rolling the quad is one of many traditions that are beloved to our community, and there are many more to come as our community grows. Beyond the cherished traditions that are celebrated without fail by each incoming class, there are interpersonal traditions built between students — like the student body’s mutual agreement that Moe’s is an atrocity to society and should not be considered an acceptable dining option (a philosophy that will be lost to the incoming class as the
Moe’s legacy is stomped by the delicious food of Yamas, a Mediterranean delight). The passion and communal dedication toward little traditions or philosophies is what makes the community at Wake Forest one that I am so grateful to be a part of — and one that has given me many memories to hold on to. While these unspoken and unique traditions have impacted my experience here, there is much to say for the time-honored traditions that make the community feel like a family. One of these said traditions is the annual cancer research fundraiser in honor of Brian Piccolo, named “Hit The Bricks”. During this event, students, faculty and alumni come together to, well, hit the bricks. Different organizations and sectors across campus convene on Hearn Plaza to run around the quad for eight hours, building a sense of community and working toward a common goal. Students reconvene biannually for the beloved President’s Ball, an event founded in celebration of former President Nathan Hatch’s inauguration of 2005. The President’s Ball is a time for music, dancing and community as students and the Wake Forest community celebrate together during the Homecoming weekend. As the weather starts to cool off, the student-organized Project Pumpkin event draws over 1,400 children from the Winston-Salem community as organizations and volunteers across campus gather for a safe Halloween experience, a tradition since 1988. While these are just a few of Wake Forest’s traditions, there are so many more to experience (from Lovefeast, a traditional Moravian feast and candle-lit service, to Wake N’ Shake, the philanthropic annual dance marathon in honor of Brian Piccolo, to highlight a couple) that far exceed words on a paper. Being able to participate in
these traditions yourself and create these memories is a fundamental part of being a Demon Deacon. I was hesitant to engage and participate in the different events that popped up around campus during my freshman year, but I encourage you to take advantage of the beautiful campus and community that is Wake Forest — and to make some traditions of your own.
Photo Courtesy of Katie Fox
Freshman Issue | Old Gold & Black
Welcome Demon Deacons. First, allow me to congratulate you. Even if you don’t know it yet, you’re right where you should be. While it’s true that the freshman experience can feel daunting and lonely at times, rest assured that you are not alone — there are other students who have been in your shoes and cannot wait to welcome you into their circles. At Wake Forest, there are over 240 student organizations, THE ROUNDTABLE IS AS FOLLOWS: How has being a member of a minority group impacted your Wake Forest experience? Jacob Thomas: Being Black has nuanced my experience and influenced the spaces where I feel most comfortable on campus. I have had the opportunity to build relationships with my peers who can relate to my experience, and my passion for building connections among members of the Black community on campus has charged me with making Wake Forest a place that operates with increased equity and supports its Black students.
Photo courtesy of Jacob Black
Akhil Mudiogonda: Being at Wake Forest has pushed me to educate others about the diverse and profound nature of the Indian culture and religion and the importance of eliminating prejudice and misinformation. Sydney Rojas: For me, Hillel is important to be a part of because it is such a judgement free, welcoming environment that feels like home away from home. No matter how religious you are, or how involved you want to be, you can always rely on Hillel as a place to go. Yaser Salamah: By giving me a community of people who share my beliefs, my experiences, and who I can come to in times of grief and times of joy. The MSA has been a safe space for me, and it has nurtured not only my Islam, but also my education and my mental health and my relationships. I don’t know how I would have gotten through Wake without the MSA. Estefania Narvaez: Being a member of OLAS has helped me grow both professionally and personally. I have developed into an awesome individual and learned to appreciate where I come from thanks to OLAS and the people in it. I have been to excel academically, immerse myself more in my culture, and have learned to appreciate the meaning of diversity and inclusion. Anusha Vora: Because of the smaller population of South Asian students at Wake, I have actually really enjoyed the close knit community that has formed as a result. The upperclassmen
Thursday, August 19, 2021 | Page 15 including groups organized around religions, races, and ethnicities, too. Chances are, no matter where you come from or what you believe in, there’s a community of like-minded students who have already spent weeks preparing for your arrival and are planning all sorts of activities to make you feel at home, even if you’re really, really far from home. Becoming involved in one of these organizations can provide a sense of familiarity and comfort, an opportunity to celebrate those holidays most meaningful to you, and the peace of mind that comes with knowing that there are other students here at Wake Forest who can relate to your experiences. But don’t take my word for it. Here, we have gathered voices from various minority groups around campus. We were interested in learning if and how being a member of a minority group has affected their personal experience at Wake Forest, and about the role their involvement in the organization has played in their experience, too. We also asked about which organizational events they are most excited for, and how new students can get involved, among other things. These individuals had so many great things to say, but we only had so much room on this one page. If you are interested in hearing a more in depth discussion about the experiences of these individuals, or what it’s like to be a member of one of these minority groups, we invite you to scan the QR code at the bottom of this page — doing so will take you to the Old Gold & Black’s youtube channel where you can watch the roundtable discussion in its entirety. Thank you to all of those individuals who participated in and helped to organize this project, we couldn’t have put this together without you. Sincerely, OGB Exec were such role models to me last year, and I loved how homey this group of people felt to me during my first time away from home. I have gained a whole new group of friends and people to guide me academically and socially through my first year and going forward. What have you gained from your involvement in your group? Thomas: BSA provides a particularly unique opportunity for members of the Black community to connect at a PWI. Building community and fellowship in this capacity allows for many students to feel an increased sense of belonging on campus. At a place like Wake Forest, that sense of community and belonging is invaluable because it gives students a system of support. Getting involved with BSA is a great way to begin establishing connections at Wake. Additionally, some BSA events facilitate personal development in terms of networking or leadership initiative. We have a few annual events such as Celebration of the Black Experience, Celebration of the Black Arts and Celebration of Black Excellence. Mudiogonda: Personally, the HSA has served as a great way to meet people of a similar cultural background, and also provided me the opportunity to educate others about the traditions and customs of Hinduism. I have been able to find like-minded individuals and also enjoy celebrations at Wake Forest similarly to how I would at home.
Photo courtesy of Estefania Navarez
Throughout the semester, HSA hold events for various Hindu celebrations such as Holi, Diwali. These are typically accompanied with traditional and tasty Indian cuisine, and great music as well. What kind of events does your group put on during the semester? Rojas: We have weekly Shabbat dinners at 6 p.m., and will have various events from time to time. Shabbat dinners are great, they give you the chance to unwind, catch up with your friends and eat free food that is not from the Pit!
Salamah: Every Friday, MSA and Muslim Life hold a Jum’ah, a Friday Prayer service, from the MSA Lounge. We also have Islam Awareness Week every spring semester, where a full week of campus wide events and activities occurs. For the next 25 years or so, Ramadan will also happen on campus, and as such, we have and will hold Iftar dinners on campus and may offer Tarawih nightly prayers as well. We also have lots of fun social events — prior to COVID we used to have game nights and movie nights on and off campus, and even a Super Bowl watch party, as well as joint events with BSU, Hillel and AAP to name a few. Vora: SASA has at least one event every month where members spend time with each other and eat South Asian food from local restaurants. We have two larger functions where we celebrate holidays such as Eid, Diwali and Holi. These are very fun and are heavily participated in by the whole school and not just by our community groups. Narvaez: Besides casual dinners, student activities and other paired events, OLAS has one main event each semester during the school year. We celebrate Latinx Heritage Month where we have our biggest formal alongside other fun activities. During the spring, we celebrate Latinx Awareness Week where we also host an event along with delicious food and other culture paired events with other organizations on campus. How can freshmen become involved? Thomas: First-years can find our events posted on Instagram @wfu_bsa. Any important information regarding upcoming news and events will likely be shared there. Additionally, there is a weekly listserv that sends updates via email (we will have a form to sign up at the involvement fair) Mudiogonda: Freshmen can look out for posters/flyers regarding HSA and meet us at the involvement fair. We will have fresh samosas available! Rojas: Just show up! The door to the Hillel lounge is always (figuratively) open, so stop by for a Shabbat meal, welcome event, etc. We are also having a Welcome Back Ice Cream Social on Tuesday, August 24 from 3-5 p.m. so
Photo courtesy of Anusha Vora
make sure to stop in the Hillel backyard (behind Collins residence hall)! Our first shabbat will be on Friday, August 27 at 6 p.m. in Collins A001 (the Hillel lounge)! Salamah: Just by showing up and getting added to the groupme and/or email listserv, freshmen will be in the loop on all MSA activities! All our events are open to all undergrad Muslim students and we encourage all Muslim folks — regardless of sect, gender, sexuality, race, religiosity, etc. — to join us for any event they feel they would enjoy! Vora: Come to a function or meeting! Anyone is welcome. Once you get to any SASA event, we can add you to the email list/GroupMe. All of the members want to meet you and are looking forward to a year full of in person events. Also, you can follow us on Instagram @wfusasa or reach out to me at voraa20@wfu.edu. Narvaez: Social media! Our Instagram is @olaswfu. If you want to be added to the GroupMe or listserv, please reach to me (Estefania) at narveg19@wfu.edu so you can be added and keep up with any OLAS updates and/or events. I will be leading a program for incoming freshmen so please stay tuned! CONCLUDING THOUGHTS We could only include so many voices on this one page, but there are many, many more organizations and groups at Wake Forest you can become involved in. At The Link’s webpage (https://wfu.campuslabs. com/engage/organizations) you can find a full list of the organizations at Wake Forest as well as upcoming events around campus. Here is the QR code to scan and watch the roundtable discussion in its entirety.
Page 16 | Thursday, August 19, 2021
Old Gold & Black | Freshman Issue
Things to do in Winston-Salem Dash-City local highlights the city’s various hot spots and pastimes BY COOPER SULLIVAN Assistant News Editor sullcg20@wfu.edu
Winston-Salem — the city that falls asleep at 9 p.m., a boring metropolis, one Reddit user’s fourth-best North Carolina college town and now, your home for the next four years. Dash City isn’t a college town like Boone or Chapel Hill, so you may feel like there is not much to do outside of campus. But ask any other townie and they will agree that there is plenty to do besides sitting in parking lots with your high school friends asking each other, “ So what are we going to do?” . The entertainment is out there, you just have to know where to look. Shopping: Hanes Mall? Wack. Thruway? That. If you enjoy spending all day walking past empty department stores and incessant shoe cleaners, Hanes Mall is the place to be. But if overcrowded parking lots
and bright fluorescent lights don’t float your boat, Thruway Shopping Center may deserve a visit. Clothes, salons, sporting goods, restaurants and the best smoothies in town? This ain’t your mama’s strip mall. Also, right across the street from Thruway is Five Points, home of Nawab, Little Richard’s BBQ and Midtown Cafe. Dare I say a better breakfast than the Pit? There are also many shops and boutiques in downtown Winston-Salem, including Underdog Records on Burke Street, Mast General on Trade Street, Bookmarks on 4th and many more local businesses to spend the day in. Outdoors: What’s the coolest three-letter word in the English language? B-M-X. There is literally nothing cooler. Go grind some gears at Tanglewood Park with miles of bike trails and a racecourse. Not cool enough to BMX? Fine, I guess you are still allowed to check out the rest of the park. Golf, fishing, farmer’s markets, jumping off bridges into the Yadkin River or just walking around are all fun and acceptable non-BMX activities. If walking around is more your speed, there are three beautiful hiking
trails all within an hour of campus — Pilot Mountain, Hanging Rock and Stone Mountain. Stone Mountain may be the furthest, but if you want to pretend to walk on the moon, the trek is worth it. If you are a White Sox fan, check out Winston-Salem’s lower, Single-A Minor League baseball team: the Dash. Lawn seats are nine dollars a pop and you can always move around the ballpark throughout the game. Plus, kids get to run the bases after the game, need I say more? Don’t Have A Car?: No worries, there are still plenty of things to do near campus, and the shuttle can be used to get downtown. Take a quick 15-minute walk over to the Reynolda House and Museum of Art to bathe yourself in early 20thcentury decadence and beauty. Just flash your DeaconOne Card and you can explore the finely furnished halls for free as well as get access to the rotating art exhibits downstairs. Take the shuttle downtown, get dropped off at Bailey Park, which usually has something always going on, then take a quick walk over to Fourth Street for some dinner. Then,
amble over to the Art Park on Liberty Street. All of downtown is very walkable and easy to navigate, so if you want to explore this new city, you can do so. Just make sure you keep track of time and don’t get stranded by the shuttle. Makeovers: Unless you are planning to grow your hair out for the next eight months, you are probably going to be looking for a barber shop nearby. If you are a Great Clips man, fear not, there are many locations in town. However, if you would like a more authentic barbershop feel, Mt. Tabor Barber Shop and Washington Park Barber Shop are both affordable and highly rated. If you want a closer barbershop, check out Supreme Legacy and Headliners which are less than two miles from campus and both of which specialize in cutting Black hair. If a haircut doesn’t fulfill that permanent change desire, visit ArtAttack Tattoo on Reynolda Road for some fresh ink or piercings. Obviously, you should do your own research about artists around town before you lock in, but ArtAttack’s convenience and testimonials are unmatched.
Top 10 ways to thrive at Wake Forest EIC runs through some satirical must-do’s to get the most out of the Wake Forest experience BY ALEXANDRA KARLINCHAK Editor-in-Chief karlae18@wfu.edu
1. Only wear elaborate, slightly disturbing graphic tees when you go out. Wake Forest has a tradition called “Walmart Wednesdays” where everyone dons a $1 graphic tee from the most ethically sourced monopoly retail corporation in the world and we go around to oncampus parties rocking the coolest gear imaginable. Nothing screams “I’m fun” like a “This guy needs a beer” shirt! 2. Walk as slow as possible in the middle of the sidewalk at all times. This is a given! Walking slowly and serving as a human blockade gives everyone behind you the opportunity to admire your outfit and mimic your strut. You get it, girl! 3. Do not join any extracurricular activities. Also, do not speak in class. Real Wake Forest students are uninvolved, apathetic and seen,
not heard. Also, sometimes not seen. Definitely don’t join sketch comedy troupes, a capella groups, intramural sports teams or academic clubs. Why would you want to meet amazing students with shared interests when you could be aloof and cool? 4. Bring your recorder from third-grade music class and play it while you wait in line at the Pit. I don’t think an explanation is needed for this tip. There is nothing better than dinner and a show. So dust off that old recorder your dad definitely didn’t feed into a wood chipper and go to town! 5. Organize a class-wide Harlem Shake to perform on the quad after convocation. Just do it. 6. Naruto run to class. The Bay Area girls have longboards, the athletes have their clunky scooters and the Deacon Place dwellers have their bikes. The rest of us have our feet. So, put them to use and show off your aerodynamic run across the quad — the upperclassmen will love it! Bonus points if you wear a lanyard around your neck! 7. Don’t ask for help, literally ever. You will hear rumors about the university having a great counseling
Ben Conroy/Old Gold & Black
center, wonderful professors who care deeply about your wellbeing and a variety of other resources to uplift you when things get tough. Don’t believe these rumors. They are all lies. You have to tough it all alone. Let your pride win. 8. Don’t bring books or school supplies to class. In fact, don’t even buy a backpack. Instead, bring a duffel bag full of Juicy Fruit to class and start each class by interrupting the professor to offer them a piece of gum. Then, proceed to walk
around and pass gum out like a hot dog vendor at a WinstonSalem Dash game. Deafening shouts advertising your wares are encouraged. You might not learn anything, but you will make a lot of friends and get a super strong jaw, so which is the better takeaway here? 9. Don’t explore WinstonSalem. Campus is a bubble and should remain that way. Do not go past the entrance to campus. Better yet, don’t leave your dorm! Walking around Salem Lake, going to the Cobblestone Farmers Market, exploring Old Salem, hiking at Pilot Mountain, grabbing a coffee from SaySo and trying a signature cocktail at Cin Cin sound pretty boring to me. Why would you want to explore such an up-and-coming city? 10. Don’t read the OGB. Why would you want to stay up-to-date on local, national and international news written and produced by and for students? Well-researched, fact-checked information about school and state policies and engaging opinion pieces? Sounds lame to me. Also, I hear their editorial team is super weird. Ew.
Freshman Issue | Old Gold & Black
Tuesday, August 19, 2021 | Page 17
What your freshman dorm says about you Discover the tropes and traits of your randomly assigned housing BY CONNOR MCNEELY Opinion Editor mcnecb19@wfu.edu
Somewhere along my protracted tour-de-force of small, expensive, private, wooded, southern liberal arts institutions I crafted a rough idea of what sort of musty space I would soon inhabit with a total stranger. Two years of exposure to the life of a first-year college student (gained via following around my older brother and visiting friends) gave me the impression that the dimensions of the room I would inhabit probably resembled those of a walk-in closet — and surely, twin beds and a hall bathroom would accompany my quarters. When I finally moved onto campus, such became the compelling reality for 17-year old me. In spite of my inevitably frustrating living conditions, I was eager to tackle an important life challenge. Everyone has to live in dorms like these, I thought. When I toured Wake Forest three years ago, I distinctly remember being corralled through the tight hallways of Johnson Residence Hall (the
only dormitory I toured) with other prospective students and thinking to myself, this is somewhat similar to the authentic college room that I had imagined for so long. Even though there were luxuries including a free microwave and minifridge that I didn’t expect, all the fixtures that most people dreaded were present. There was even a burgeoning stench that inhabited the basement! The smell was comforting, in
Photo courtesy of Ashley Davis
a way — and I know that it continues to be for most students that live in Johnson. There’s a certain platonic intimacy that develops between the different floors, one that isn’t exactly available in other dorms. Back then, I was looking forward to enjoying my first year in a place like that because from my perspective, every hall was just like this one. And yet, I didn’t end up in Johnson, or anything like it. My home was the Maya Angelou Residence Hall (the pièce de résistance of the freshman dormitories), and so it didn’t take long for me to come to an understanding that the freshman dorms were all poles apart in their own way. You can probably imagine my surprise when I found myself in a pristine, spacious double with a media room and a gargantuan living room on the floor below. It was in those hallowed halls that I learned how much of an effect your freshman dorm can have on you. If you’ve seen or read Harry Potter, you’ll understand what I mean because the freshman dorms are exactly like the houses in Hogwarts. Angelou is Gryffindor. South is Slytherin — they think their building is better when it’s objectively second best — and so on and so forth.
Of course, it’s all random (or at least that’s what they would have us believe). In my case, I shirked the random selection process due to my participation in a Living Learning Community (which is something that I highly recommend) and arrived in a paradise that I didn’t even know existed. Yes, naturally, where you live your freshman year means something about you. And while you can limit the meaning to just the group of people that you hang out with, it’s much more fun to subscribe to the campus-wide conspiracies. Despite this, whether you spend your first months at Wake Forest in Luter’s labyrinth or climbing to the roof of Babcock, you’re bound to make some of the greatest memories of your undergraduate experience, no matter whose name is etched above the pillars. Lastly, don’t get me wrong, students in Angelou have it rough, too. If you find yourself there — buckle up, because it’s going to be a rough ride. Everyone else will hate and discriminate against you for something that was never even within your control — being superior. But don’t be discouraged by the haters. Ultimately, they’ll be the ones begging to hang out with you, in your room. It’s not like anyone’s going to want to have a kickback in Collins.
Exploring the arts at Wake Forest Wake Forest offers avenues to discover and engage with creative endeavors BY AINE PIERRE News Editor pierav20@wfu.edu
Wake Forest is known for three things: sports, parties and academics. However, there are quite a few hidden gems that make this university special, including the quality and diversity of its music programs. While all Wake Forest students are required to take a class in the arts (Division 3 on the course checklist), unfortunately, none of the extracurricular arts programs fulfill that requirement (not even courses like choir, a one-credit course in the Music Department). However, involvement in arts beyond the classroom can be incredibly rewarding and grounding, so it’s advisable to do it anyway. The following is just a sampling of the many ways to get involved in music on campus. The music scene at Wake Forest is one of the most underrated parts of the Demon Deacon experience. There are a myriad of ways to get involved in the music program, regardless of musical talent. For those passionate about singing, the Wake Forest choirs are a great place to start. The Wake Forest choir program is currently bifurcated, with a general, anyone-can-join choir that
meets twice a week (Concert Choir) and an audition choir that meets four times a week (Chamber Choir). The choirs are under the direction of Dr. Christopher Gilliam, who is entering his second year at Wake Forest. “There are many students at Wake who were once valuable members of their high school choirs, who know what it is to have fun while making music and singing with like-minded peers and friends,” Gilliam told the Old Gold & Black last April. “My hope is that they come back to choir.” Singers who are more advanced in their careers can also audition for one of Wake Forest’s many a cappella groups. These groups include a
Christian-based girls group (Minor Variation), an all-girls group (Demon Divas), a men’s Christian group (Chi Rho), an all-male group (Plead the Fifth) and co-ed groups (Melodeacs and Innuendo). For those looking for something a bit more mobile, SOTOGAB, or the Spirit of the Old Gold and Black (no relation), is a great way to get involved. SOTOGAB is the umbrella term for the university’s pep band and marching band. The bands are open to people of all musical abilities, according to its website. Led by Dr. Timothy Heath, the bands performed on ESPN’s College GameDay last year.
Photo courtesy of Riley Phillips
“I love SOTOGAB because every single member has such a positive attitude and welcomes every new member with open arms. During my first year, I met some of my best friends through this program,” sophomore Shelby Horth, a trombonist, said. “The band allows everyone the opportunity to be a part of something larger than themselves, and we all uphold great responsibility to represent the Wake Forest community wherever we go; not to mention, every member gets a front row seat to Wake Forest athletic events!” Wake Forest also has a strong orchestra program, which, like choir, can be taken for course credit. The orchestra puts on multiple concerts a year, and musicians in the orchestra can also play in the pit for stage productions put on by the Departments of Theatre and Dance, per the orchestra website. Wake Forest also has an extracurricular sea shanty orchestra, FolkKnot, which is open to auditions. “Before I started playing and writing music, I never really had a creative outlet,” sophomore Grey Laney, FolkKnot’s guitarist, said. “FolkKnot has given me that ability to make the type of music I love alongside a bunch of really cool, extremely talented people, and the whole process is extremely gratifying.” No matter how one chooses to get involved in music at Wake Forest, it is sure to be a rewarding experience.
Page 18 | Thursday, August 19, 2021
Freshman Issue | Old Gold & Black
Study abroad chances return post-COVID Wake Forest offers different opportunities for those wishing to study abroad BY CHRISTINA DENOVIO Sports Editor denoca20@wfu.edu
With study abroad opportunities stripped away for the 2020-2021 academic year due to COVID-19 travel and living restrictions, many members of the Wake Forest class of 2022 had to cancel their plan to spend a semester of their junior year away from their college’s primary campus. “I was set on going to London my spring semester through the Instep Program,” senior Justin Adler said. “After banking recruiting, I was most excited to just travel to Europe since I hadn’t been and have an internship through the program.” “I was pretty bummed after it got cancelled," Adler continued. "I hope to go again after graduation.” Thanks to solutions developed by health care professionals across the world, study abroad options are back on the table. With this progress, operations on and off campus are getting back to normal. College students with a desire to explore new territory and learn about a different culture overseas will once again have the opportunity to do so for the 2021-2022 school year.
The class of 2023 will make up the majority of jetsetters. Travel options include Africa, Asia, Australia, the Pacific Islands, the Caribbean, Central America, Europe, the Middle East and South America. “I’m really looking forward to bonding with the people on my program and immersing myself in a new country,” junior Juliet Sullivan said. Sullivan will be studying in London at the Worrell House this fall, said. “I’m a history and politics double major, so learning about the history of other countries has always been really interesting, and I’m excited to explore the U.K.” The experience will be different from years past, as so many aspects of life have changed since the global pandemic first hit. “COVID has caused a lot of stress and uncertainty leading up to the trip, and I’m very relieved that things seem to be working out,” Sullivan said. “There are strict entry and travel requirements, which I don’t mind, but I’m hoping it doesn’t impede my ability to explore Europe outside of the UK.” On Wake Forest’s Study Abroad website under the COVID-19 Updates section, a statement reads, “The Center for Global Programs & Studies (GPS) continues to plan for the resumption of study abroad/ away programs for all future terms. GPS staff and University officials will actively monitor the global health landscape,
governmental advisories, travel restrictions, etc. We will directly communicate relevant updates to students and the campus community[...]” Following the statement, there is a list of FAQs that range from questions about airfare to housing. For those unsure whether or not they should give studying abroad a try, the Center for Global Programs and Studies gives a plethora of reasons. Whether it be immersing oneself in a brand new culture or searching for personal growth, students can be assured that taking the opportunity to study abroad will open the door to a new and exciting experience.
Photo courtesy of wakeforestvenice.com
When asked what she is most anticipating for her semester abroad, junior Stefy Espinosa, who will be exploring Barcelona in the fall, said, “I’m looking forward to experiencing the culture and becoming a local.” While many students have opted to stay on campus this year, those who were interested in studying abroad have the COVID-19 vaccine to be thankful for. Restrictions of varying degrees depending on the location will be in place, but the opportunity to venture out of the country has proven to be a privilege this past year. More information on Wake Forest’s study abroad program, along with details on scholarships and financial aid, can be found at studyabroad.wfu.edu.
Discover Wake Forest extracurriculars Take advantage of the variety of different extracurriculars offered by Wake Forest BY SELINNA TRAN Life Editor transn19@wfu.edu
place on campus to explore it, there is a chance that someone else on campus has the same interest as you. You are encouraged to find these like-minded people to create an organization that will make a lasting impact on the campus and the community. One of the newly founded organizations of the 2020-2021 school year started with a simple passion and interest (World Tea Association) and has attracted many different members as the club continues to explore the history and culture of tea. What used to be a couple of students furthering their love of gaming is now a full-fledged e-sports organization that will be competing in various collegiate
level e-sports competitions this school year. The WFU e-sports club is working towards moving towards bigger and brighter things as there are plans in the works for a full e-sports lab located in the Sutton Center. There is no right or wrong organization for you, and the best part about all of these different extracurriculars is the ability to explore and to figure out what you would like to be a part of. College is a time for this exploration and Wake Forest provides the resources and there are many different aspects of life within these organizations for you to leave your mark on.
Wake Forest is home to hundreds of student organizations, with more being created every semester by the imaginative minds of the Wake Forest student body. From a sustainable fashion organization that was just recently created (Wayward Fashion) to the organization that is delivering you this paper (shoutout Old Gold & Black!), there are so many Photo courtesy of Cooper Sullivan different avenues to explore, creativity Journalism awards hanging on and academic interest toward. the walls of the OGB’s office. While it is important to think about the aspects of these different organizations You could choose to further your and consider what is beneficial for you academic pursuits and reach out and your academic journey, there is no to various academic organizations limit or requirement toward what you such as Wake Women in Computer want to do. This includes branching Science, Neuroscience club, Pre-Law out and taking the initiative to join an organization, etc. Even if you are unsure organization that might not be in your of where your career path may lead, comfort zone. Prior to joining Wake Forest, I had these organizations can provide you never considered journalism or working with the right tools to help decide. Service and fulfilling the Pro for the newspaper and I got involved on Humanitate spirit of Wake Forest a whim after receiving an email about may be more in your wheelhouse and being a production assistant during fall community service organizations such semester of my sophomore year. A year as Campus Kitchen or Campus Gardens and an abundance of memories and Photo courtesy of Aran Silva may suit your fancy. experiences later, I have a place that I Even if you believe your interests WOMB, the men’s ultimate frisbee team, practicing on Potelove and look forward to returning to are too niche and you may not find a at Field. There are many different club sports on campus. when I am back on campus.
Freshman Issue | Old Gold & Black
Thursday, August 19, 2021 | Page 19
Old Gold & Black tips for a new semester A new semester can be tough, but developing healthy habits at the start of the semester is a great practice. Consider these helpful tips to guide you! BY SELNNA TRAN Life Editor transn19@wfu.edu
KEEP THESE IN MIND!
NO.1 STAY HYDRATED
NO.3 PLAN, PLAN, PLAN
Investing in a water bottle is a smart first step for a new semester. No matter the bountiful options available for beverages (Campus Grounds, Legal Grounds, Camino Bakery, Starbucks), water will remain one of the most beneficial options for hydration. A reusable water bottle will come in handy and useful to fill up at various water fountains around campus.
Do not let yourself get behind on work. This can easily snowball into an avalanche of missed assignments and lack of time. Plan to schedule and allocate your time accordingly. Schedule your extracurriculars around your classwork. However, it is important to always remember to take some time for yourself! Self-care is cucial, and scheduling time to relax is okay.
NO.2 SHOW UP TO CLASS!
NO. 4 UTILIZE RESOURCES
This should go without saying but unless there are extenuating circumstances, attending class is a crucial step to a successful semester. This is both respectful to your peers and your professor, and is also a beneficial habit to accustom yourself to. Fight the temptation to hit snooze before your 10 a.m. class.
From mental to academic health, Wake Forest offers a multitude of resources and avenues for support. Take advantage of these opportunities and do not be afraid to ask for help. Whether that may come in the form of class help (tutoring centers, advisors, etc.) or other assistance, Wake Forest has the resources.
KEEP THIS IN MIND (Con‘t.) Join clubs + more: Reference page 18 to get an in-depth guide of different extracurriculars available on campus. However, I encourage you to take the leap to join a club that may be out of your comfort zone. You may be surprised to find that you enjoy it and/or can contribute to the organization in a meaningful way. There are a multitude of opportunities to get involved on campus and not taking advantage of this would be a mistake. The thought may be daunting but Wake Forest has an abundance of welcoming and supportive organizations. Read the newspaper: A sure fire way to stay in the loop on different campus events, news and more is to pick up a copy of the premier student newspaper, the Old Gold & Black (available at various different buildings and residence halls). Editions are usually published on a weekly basis both in print and digital format.
If you are interested in contributing to the newspaper, there are a variety of different ways to get involved. From putting your analytical and creative skills crafting weekly stories or investigating campus news, writing for the newspaper may be a topic of interest. However, contribution is not limited to writing, as production could always use a helping hand to help lay out, edit and produce the pages you are reading today. Rep Wake Forest: Campus pride is abundant all around Wake Forest. Join in on the love for the Wake Forest community through participating in various athletic, social, and community events. There is no greater pride than the feeling of beating a rival school and cheering on for our beloved university. Find your own way to appreciate the campus and make the community meaningful to you. There are different opportunities for you to leave your impact, and the Wake Forest community will always be here to support you along the way.
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Old Gold & Black | Freshman Issue