A-Line Magazine: Golden Hour

GOLDEN HOUR Vol. 1 | Issue 1

Dasom Lee

Ivory Rowen Nguyen

Editor in Chief/Co-President

Lifestyle & Features Editor/ Co-President

Design Chief

Chloe Downey

Angela Kraus

Madison Corley

Fashion & Beauty Editor

Online Editor

Recruitment Chief

Analisa Navarrete

Chloe Garza

Kristen Phillips

Photography Chief

Event Chief

Social Media Chief

executive board

Emma Garza

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Madison Trousdale

Sadie McQuaide

Public Relations Chief

Videography Chief

Editor in Chief/Co-President Lifestyle & Features Editor/Co-President Design Chief Fashion & Beauty Editor Online Editor

Emma Garza Dasom Lee Ivory Rowen Nguyen Chloe Downey Angela Kraus

Recruitment Chief

Madison Corley

Photography Chief

Analisa Navarrete

Event Chief Social Media Chief Public Relations Chief Videography Chief

Chloe Garza Kristen Phillips Madison Trousdale Sadie McQuaide

Writing Team Alexa Ojeda, Ashley Alvarado, Ceci Vail, Chloe Downey, Claudia Mata, Dasom Lee, Emma Garza, Gem Prigmore, Grace Doering, Gretchen Evans, Kathleen Bratton, Kathryn Miller, Katie Collins, Kortnie Franzen, Lani Pieper, Larissa Villegas, Lindsey Golden, Madison Corley, Madison Quinn, Megan Bonsall, Meredith Tabor, Samhita Anapu, Vanessa Hernandez Photography Team Abbi Roane, Analisa Navarrete, August Nennmann, Beth Baumler, Breanna Gamble, Emily Snyder, Flora Patteson, Hannah Trousdale, Jennifer Han, Julia Ayala, Laura Ashley Hartline, Lia Onisiphorou, Mackenzie Miller, Roxanne Torres, Sofia Perez, Sophia Howard, Stephanie Carrillo Design Team Alyssa Hoppie, Anna Keller, Cassidy Schippel, Courtney Ward, Dana Dang, Isabela Esparza, Ivory Rowen Nguyen, Jacqueline Barnes, Jessica McCarty, Julia Vasilyev, Shelby Sutton Social Media Team Anna Cowan, Gabriela Ayala, Kristen Phillips, Leila Kassi, Madison Trousdale, Marisa Salamone, Mary Trantham, Myranda Cumpian, Raylee White, Sophia Zhong, Taylor Lammi Videography Team Ada Argueta, Nicole Lopez, Tori Espurvoa, Sadie McQuaide 3

Letter from the Editor W

e are in the golden hour of 2020, at last.

This year came as a surprise to everyone— an unassuming beginning followed by a blazing eight months of what can only be known as history in the making. Approaching the production of what would have been our second print issue, news of a global pandemic spread. Students moved out of campus dorms, classes switched to an online format, and life as we knew it had turned upside down. Our world became unrecognizable. Losses were felt, mass protests for racial justice shook the nations, and we reached a point where face coverings were simply the norm. A-Line as an organization stayed afloat, adjusting to digital communication only and striving to provide a source of escapism through content. However, the fall 2020 semester would pose innumerable challenges as we attempted to return to what was. It came as an exciting realization that new and returning members were beyond enthused to create, to be a part of something again. This only further reminded us of the absolute necessity of voluntary collaboration, not merely in our organization but in the nature of being human. It is the buzzing of ideas back and forth, the group spirit, the accountability of working closely with others on a passion project that connects us to not only a profound part of ourselves, but that of each other. Ironically, it was through a computer screen that we found this to be a core truth of life. Similarly, it was through a quarantine that we discovered the essentiality of the collective effort.

Inspired by the warm brilliance we catch a glimpse of just before the sun sets for the day, our fall 2020 issue is centered around the profound reflection that comes with the close of an era. As this incomprehensibly significant year nears its finish, it is paramount that we take notice of lessons learned: humanity is at its best when united, there is never a shortage of growth to be had, and basking in one’s golden hour is the antidote for never forgetting to appreciate the present in all its wondrous, albeit momentarily unconventional glory. We hope that “Golden Hour” sparks gratitude for the tangible joys that kept us sane through quarantine (p. 42, p.

45), styling ideas for those days that sweatshirts simply won’t do (p. 36), and a renewed sense of confidence in a world that is slowly picking back up the pieces for brighter days to come.

With gratitude,

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Emma Garza Editor in Chief & Co-Founder

IN REMEMBRANCE of those whose lives were lost due to COVID-19

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IN THIS ISSUE A-LINE MAGAZINE | VOL. 1 04

Letter from the Editor

05 In Remembrance 06 In This Issue 07 Letter from the Design Chief 08

Every Skin Tone is Golden

10 Your Defining Year 14

The Comeback of Gold Jewelry

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Monumental Moments of 2020

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She’s Golden

22 Why Can’t We Be Friends?

26 Keep Mama Earth Glowing 30

Slow Burn

31

The Buzz on Women’s Empowerment

34 Ruth Bader Ginsburg 36

Fashion Aesthetics of 2020

39 The Age of Protest

42 Girl, Glow 45 46

How To: Charcuterie Board

Let the Light In

48 Be Present in Your Golden Hour

50 Who We Are 51 Sponsors 6

Letter from the

design chief

I

have always been drawn to the ability to create and explore digitally. At A-Line, being part of the digital dialogue in our little corner of the world is something that not only empowers us but continually gifts us with new ideas, undiscovered talents, and a positive sense of community. As we embark on another year, our Design Team hopes that this issue will encourage you to look forward with a confident and creative outlook; to find inspiration in the designs we’ve shared.

Going into Vol. 1, Issue 1, we were inspired by the various meanings of Golden Hour.

Whether the meaning ventures you outside to capture your best golden moments or comprises of a deeper meaning of your golden hour, we hope you see the hard work put forth as we seek to spotlight our team that made this possible. I speak for all of us at A-Line Magazine when I say we are so excited to end this year with personal, relatable, and unique content, and we hope you are too.

All the best,

Ivory Rowen Nguyen Design Chief

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is golden

EVERY SKIN TONE W

hat is the first thing that comes to mind when you think about the concept of beauty?

You may envision your idea of society’s standards, but that visual will likely be different from the person next to you, and the person next to them. The reality is that the answer isn’t quite so simple, and has evolved frequently throughout the decades. As we have entered a new era of social change, the meaning of “pretty” has also been redefined. In 2020, beauty is diversity.

The world is embracing and advocating for different body shapes, hair textures, and skin tones to represent women and people everywhere. We are living in an era that is promoting inclusivity for all, which is powerful in and of itself; the beauty industry is reflective of this.

Part of the fight for diversity is the movement to defend people of different ethnicities. The media and the beauty industry have contributed to this movement by including individuals of different backgrounds to help combat racism and prejudice among various mediums.

Similar to a rainbow, humanity is wonderfully diversified. We find beauty in rainbows and their range of shades; each color is equally as important as the others because if one is missing, there is no glorious sight to behold. As fashion icon Michael Kors mentioned in a 2017 issue of Vogue: “What feels fresh and modern is a sense of surprise, like when you’re in the city, watching all kinds of people go by on the streets. What eye candy!” In that respect, every skin tone adds excitement and depth to our world. We no longer have to aspire to look a certain way to be considered physically worthy, but rather begin to embrace the skin we’re in.

As we establish that every skin tone is golden, we are moving closer to a representative society in its truest form.

When we as a people begin to change our ideals, such as our beliefs of what beauty is, it can cause a ripple effect in other realms. Regardless of political beliefs, it is imperative to a peaceful world that we as people support the racial diversity that makes up our world.

Let’s make a change together. Get to know someone significantly different than you. Reflect on your idea of beauty, and take into consideration the ideals other people may have. We are stunning in our differences, no matter what skin tone, shape, or other physical features. We are all golden in our own right.

ASHLEY ALVARADO

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YOUR DEFINING YEAR Finding Individuality in the Age of Social Media SAMHITA ANAPU

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ell known is the phrase, “alone in a sea of people.”

Whether it is said aloud or quietly held within you, the undeniable impact of loneliness, conformity, and collectivism can dramatically alter the path of finding your individuality. Coupled with the plethora of information on social media from the minute you wake up to the second you fall asleep, discovering yourself can be a daunting task.

Whether we like it or not, social media has proven to be the world’s greatest invention. Revolutionary apps like Twitter, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat have helped reunite families from across the world, find organ donors, and challenge deeply embedded societal stereotypes. However, these apps have also led to misinformation, exploitation of psychological vulnerabilities, and addiction. So, how do we—as stressridden college students—discover our niche in this vast world of incentivized social media addiction?

Initiate Open and Honest Conversations

Too often, people fail to realize that if they are not paying for a service, they are the service. Scary, we know. Social media companies are in constant competition for who can hold our attention for the longest, subtly asking their consumer, “How much of your life can we get you to give us?” Therefore, all of the services that are seemingly “free” are paid for with our attention. Every second we spend staring at a picture or video is more money in the bank for social media giants. Conversation is critical in inciting change, due to these unethical violations of privacy.

Voicing your opinion on the business-like transactions of users’ attention spans (in some cases, through these very technologies), can help redirect the nature of the tide. Starting conversations with your friends, family, and neighbors also has the ability to clear the fog that is fact blended into fiction. Ultimately, finding your individuality doesn’t need to be a solo quest. Introducing yourself to various ideas and thought processes from others can help you dig below the surface level to develop a clear understanding of who you are outside of social media influence and learn about what really matters to you.

Uninstall, Unwind, Unplug

When creating the “like” button, Tristan Harris, a design ethicist at Google, explained that the driving force behind its inception was to spread positivity and love in the world. Now, social media users can’t help but compare the numbers of likes they get. As a result, consumers often spiral into black holes of self-doubt. Our mood and sense of self have become tethered to the never-ending buzz of notifications, so much so that we’ve lost sight of our true forms. Uninstalling unused apps from your phone, cleansing your device of social media apps, and silencing the notifications that can wait, will help you gain back autonomy over your social media presence. If you find yourself unintentionally reaching for your phone, you may want to rethink your social media usage. After all, “only two organizations call their customers ‘users’: illegal drugs and software.” -The Social Dilemma Go the Extra Mile

The truth is, we all hear voices in our heads— unfortunately, it is often the case that the voices of fear, doubt, self-sabotage and judgment speak the loudest. We respond to these voices by conforming to stereotypes and relinquishing hold of our natural selves in order to fit in.

To be truly authentic in the face of this detrimental habit, go the extra mile by actively seeking varying perspectives and types of information in your life until your identity is too firm to be stifled. Follow people on Twitter that you disagree with, just so you can be exposed to different points of view. Curious about something? Don’t just Google it once, but twice. Regarding tangible tips, the documentary The Social Dilemma recommends using Chrome extensions that remove recommendations. This will allow you to reclaim the necessary power to choose what you consume instead of letting your content be chosen for you.

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Detach from the Illusion

On a frequent basis, we are also distracted with our desire to mimic the seemingly perfect. The photoshopped bodies, pearly white smiles, and picturesque landscapes that show up on our feeds work together to form a misleading illusion of “success” that is then heavily perpetuated by social media. We become so fixated on the idea of constructing the perfect Instagram feed that we skip over one key word: construct. The construction or curation of what we imagine others want to see is similar to putting up a facade so far off that we lose sight of our passions and identities. Focus on exposing yourself to things that interest you and push you to learn more about who you are and what your purpose is. Follow others to raise them up as opposed to bringing them down, and remember the difference between a highlight reel and reality. Instead of posting about the one wild night out on the town you had that you assumed would make you look “cool,” consider posting about the morning walk you took around the park, the painting you were finally able to finish, or even a snippet of your songwriting process. Try being the real you until it becomes unnatural to be anything but.

At the end of the day, it’s vital to remember you are not alone. You are human and these changes aren’t meant to take place overnight. Actively learning to be cognizant of the consequences before your next social media venture can help you pave your own path towards self-discovery.

Always remember that the world is only made unique when we embrace our authentic selves. So, go on. Share your individuality.

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GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD theGOLD comeback of GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLDGOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD JEWELRY GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD CHLOE DOWNEY

T

he time has come for us to put aside our beloved silver jewelry and step out in both antique and shiny, new golden pieces. Despite being stuck inside for the majority of the year, 2020 has been the ultimate comeback for gold jewelry, as homebodies and influencers alike have been flaunting it constantly.

Whether you’re scrolling through Instagram, pinning graphics to your Pinterest board, or grabbing a socially-distanced drink at a coffee shop, you’ll notice one thing: gold is everywhere. From Bella Hadid’s statement gold hoops to bedazzled Chanel chains, there are a few basics in each category that are being reinvented in 2020 fashion for the revival your mom has been waiting for.

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Layered Gold Chains First on the list and perhaps most important: necklaces.

One of the first things you notice on someone is a personal statement piece, and a gold chain is sure to reflect stunning natural light. With gold chains, the options for styling are endless. You can approach this style with either one heavy gold chain, several thinner ones, or even a long pendant necklace thrown in for contrast; this look is yours to invent. We live by the idea that you can never have too many layers, so get creative with it. Gold chains are also the perfect way to dress up a plain look. For instance, not sure how to vamp up your turtleneck sweater? Simply layer a few chains and you’ve managed to elevate your jewelry game in a split second.

GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD GOLD Chunky Hoops We know you’re dedicated to your small silver hoops at this point, but it’s time to venture beyond your fashion comfort zone. Gold jewelry was once what the majority of women wore, especially hoops. Think: 1980s glamour shot of the biggest hoops in the department store. Although you can never go wrong with the classics, gold hoops have been reinvented with different styles this year that easily diversify the trend. Along with the chunky gold look, there’s been a lot of small, dome-shaped huggies and twisted band styles of hoops. Needless to say, this accessory is a musthave. If a pair of gold hoops can turn a gray sweatpants and cropped-white tee outfit into an effortless fashion statement, you need a pair. Chunky gold hoops have risen to the top and are sticking around.

Statement Rings Remember pinky rings? Neither do we. However, if you look at any old photographs, you will see that young women once wore rings on every finger, especially in the 1990s grunge days. Today, that look is coming back with a slight refresh. Instead of every finger decked in rings, statement rings are worn to either stand out by themselves, or to be paired with simple pieces that complement their boldness. With a modern twist, gold rings have been revamped with styles like

monogrammed initials, glimmering stones in the center, or just a plain face. Paired with your proudlyearned college ring, you can opt for dainty gold bands worn on the knuckles, the latest spin on signet rings with smiley faces, or a wrapped-around golden snake.

Stacked Bangles The envy over Kylie Jenner’s Cartier bangles is real. If you have to choose between paying for your college tuition or a bracelet, go ahead and pay for college because we’ve got you covered. Stacked bangles are the most versatile and customizable accessories because, like layers, they work best with accent pieces. There’s no need to spend a fortune on a bangle, as there are plenty of dupes on websites like Amazon or Etsy.

If you’re looking for something different, try a link bracelet for a more low-key look. Bangles styled with multiple designer brands also look surprisingly chic. A gold Cartier love bangle with an Hermès cuff, finished with a Gucci or Apple watch has luxury written all over it, but remember to pay your tuition first.

As loyal of a friend that silver jewelry is, we are letting gold have its moment. There is no need to spend a fortune on real gold when gold-plated and thrifted jewelry are always perfectly good options. Trends are constantly coming in and out of style, but we have a good feeling that gold is forever.

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monumental moment

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2020

ts of

unpredictable. uncertain. unforgettable.

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W

hen Americans across the country welcomed in a new decade on January 1, 2020, no one expected the year to unfold the way it did.

From the deaths of treasured celebrities and a worldwide pandemic to nationwide protests and a momentous presidential election, the constant thought in everyone’s minds has been: “What else is coming?”

The year 2020 has been the definition of “unpredictable.” Here, we will discuss the pinnacle moments that shaped these last 12 months and served as stomping grounds for significant movements towards change.

COVID-19 Pandemic The international Coronavirus pandemic has catalyzed a new way of living, seen in the ways people co-exist in our socially-distanced society today. Since the first case in January, the CDC has consistently reported an influx of disease throughout our nation. As of October 18th, the United States has exceeded 8 million positive COVID-19 diagnoses and 200,000 deaths. The virus’s impact has caused the nation’s leaders and citizens to be hyper-sensitive to disease prevention and health and safety standards. With the uncertainty of how the virus spread, the U.S. and countless other countries around the world were forced into societal shutdowns at the beginning of March. Schools, universities and nonessential businesses were closed. Events like the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, Coachella, and Broadway were forced to postpone or cancel, while others transitioned into virtual formats. People were forced into months-long quarantines, restricting them from leaving their homes to seek solace from friends and family. No one was exempt from pressing pause on the once “normal” life we all desperately ached to return to.

People across the U.S. did not expect the shutdown and aftermath of the virus to last into the later months of this year. What was once a two-week spring break vacation turned into months of isolation. While case numbers are still climbing, people are slowly transitioning into the new “normal” of wearing masks and social distancing.

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Black Lives Matter Movement Though the Black Lives Matter movement’s prominence began in 2013, George Floyd’s death in May sparked nationwide protests for social change and equality for people of color. Even in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic, people joined rallies and marches in support of BIPOC across the country. The news flashed graphic images of burning buildings, raided businesses, and destruction that had ensued within major U.S. cities.

Regardless of whether or not these protests were passive or aggressive, the tension between police and protesters rose, leading to instances of civilian uproar and police brutality.

The deaths of Floyd and other individuals, like Breonna Taylor and Ahmaud Arbery, brought awareness of systemic racism within the United States. The BLM movement slogan, “Defund the police” gained traction

The year 2020 has been the definition of “unpredictable.”

delegates nominated President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Pence as the party’s nominees for the 2020 presidential election. At the virtual Democratic National Convention, delegates formally chose former Vice President Joe Biden and Senator Kamala Harris of California for the Democratic ticket. Harris brought national attention to the party as the first African American, first Asian American, and third female vice president nominee. At the first presidential debate on September 29th, Biden and Trump took the stage to discuss the nation’s issues. Criticism from journalists and commentators flooded media platforms, dubbing the event the hot mess of the century; that’s saying a lot for 2020. Even with all the hardships, American citizens have exemplified persistence and strength in the face of adversity. Though it is important to pay attention to what has happened in the past, it is equally necessary to move forward. In the same way, take the lessons learned from your personal experiences and use them to reflect, learn, and grow.

It is vital to remember that every day is a new day. The struggles—internal or external—are only temporary.

The human experience is about perseverance and grasping onto hope, so remember that the darkness will soon turn into light.

LANI PIEPER

in headlines and social media, encouraging political leaders to implement changes in the police system within America. The movement brought awareness to statues and monuments that commemorated individuals who participated in slavery and harmed POC throughout the course of U.S. history. On Texas A&M University’s campus, protests about the statue of Lawrence Sullivan “Sully” Ross, former Confederate Army general, Texas governor and A&M president, created a divide between individuals with conflicting interests on campus. The pro-Sully versus anti-Sully movements have resulted in hours-long peaceful protests in front of the statue in Texas A&M’s Academic Plaza.

The 2020 Presidential Election In the wake of social and political movements and a global pandemic, the U.S. is looking to elect a presidential candidate in the 59th quadrennial presidential election.

At the Republican National Convention in August,

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GOL

D

makeup looks for sundown

She’s

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EN KATHRYN MILLER

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olden hour is the ideal time to capture a stunning shot. The sun casts down a warm illumination during the last hour of the day with hues that effortlessly accentuate one’s inner glowing goddess. To take advantage of nature’s flawless filter, Kelsey Hoppenstedt worked with shimmery copper shadows and decorative stars to create two unique looks.

For Kortnie’s eye look, Kelsey began with a base concealer to neutralize [Kortnie’s] skin tone.

She then feathered lightly into her crease with a light, nude shimmer and brought it out to the outer V of her eye. She also lined Kortnie’s lower lash line with the same shimmer shadow, blending the softness of the look lower on her face.

Next, she used Stila’s Liquid Glitter Shadow in Kitten Karma, a brilliant champagne tone, on the center of her eyelid. Stila’s Liquid Glitter is heavily pigmented, and perfect for a quick, yet concentrated application. This lustrous shade added depth and dimension.

In a Euphoria-meets-sunset manner, Kelsey completed the look by adding cosmetic glitter stars at random above Kortnie’s crease and below her lower lash line, which pulled together the iridescent nature of the look.

Steph’s look was taken in a contrasting direction, her olive skin being brought out by darker, more crimson shadows.

Kelsey began at her crease with a deep coral shade, brushing it to her outer corner, similar to Kortnie’s look in all ways except color. This allowed for darker edges, mimicking the look of golden hour rays. A lighter gold shade was applied towards her crease, and the lightest color of the look was then applied to the center of her lid.

The luminous, flaming hues on the outer corners of her eyes mirrored those last few minutes of golden hour, when the sun shines a deeper red before disappearing for the night.

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Why Can’t We Be Friends?

Healthy Political Convos: Yep, You Need to Have Them.

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KATHLEEN BRATTON

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ver the past 15 years, the political landscape of the United States has changed drastically.

What is difficult to grasp is how not even 10 years ago, those of us in college today knew nothing of the issues surrounding us. In 2008, when Barack Obama was elected to his first term, current college undergraduate students were either in first, second, third, or fourth grade. Crazy, right?

We’ve seen history change before our eyes as young kids and now college students.

The House and Senate majorities have flipped multiple times, same-sex marriage has been legalized, and the Black Lives Matter movement has been brought to the forefront of essentially every facet of American news, just to name a few turning points.

As young adults who can now better comprehend the reality of it all, we can unanimously agree that the events of this year were mind-boggling.

Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna tragically perished in a helicopter crash, Joe Exotic and Carole Baskin became household names after the release of Netflix’s hit docuseries Tiger King, wildfires swept across Australia, and Prince Harry and Meghan Markle officially stepped down from their royal duties.

Oh, and there was a global pandemic that erupted and is still inflicting alarm 8 months later. Casual.

The cherry on top of 2020 is the 59th presidential election in our country’s history between incumbent President Donald Trump and former Vice President Joe Biden.

Each second we get closer to Election Day is crucial for both presidential candidates and their supporting parties. Many celebrities and influencers have become even more active on social media, giving resources on where to register to vote, important dates, 23

and anecdotes of why they are so grounded in their personal, political opinions.

We have all noticed the tensions rising. Families and friendships alike have been slowly falling apart because of different political views. Now, more than ever, is not the time to break barriers with those you care about. Who your friends are should not be solely determined by the political ticket they picked on Election Day. Having healthy, respectful, and politically sound conversations with the people you hold close to your heart will not only deepen the respect you have for each other, but will help you understand views you may not have understood before. There’s always more to learn.

Having these hard conversations, especially with

“There’s always more to learn.” those who you know have different viewpoints than you, can escalate quickly. It is easier for college students to go after each other’s throats because we are all in the same age range. We have probably all experienced how casual it is to talk to someone your own age as opposed to an older adult, with whom most people will automatically be respectful towards.

No matter how much you might not want to get into politics, how many of your friends do or do not agree with your political views, and how much you do or do not know about the political issues of today, you have to have these conversations. Too many people like to think their perspective is the only perspective. In order to make any meaningful change in our society, we have to know about and attempt to understand why other viewpoints are valid.

Here are some tips on how to prep for and have a healthy and insightful political conversation:

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Read and Hear Both Sides It is easy to remain in the groove of how you like to do things, especially when it comes to receiving your news. Many people grow up watching or reading their “usual” news source, and it isn’t until you get older that you may realize your favorite news outlet may be leaning towards one side more than the other. By taking the time to watch 30 minutes of FOX News or CNN (or the opposite news channel of your favorite) you can try to understand for yourself the views of people who have differing opinions. You may not like everything you hear, but listen for points you can acknowledge as valid. If you always read the New York Times, try the Wall Street Journal, and vice versa. On Apple News, you can follow your favorite news source, as well as those that lean in the opposite direction.

There are so many options for receiving information, and doing so in a way that will educate you even more on others’ viewpoints.

Know Your Audience Political conversations are hard, especially when it is with friends and family you are close to. However, these conversations are so important to have in order to understand and accept others’ points of view so real progress can be made in our world. If you’re talking to your friend and you know they shut down when people start to raise their voice in a conversation, double-check your tone and body language. If you are talking to a family member who is very set in their ways, understand they might ignore what you have to say when you bring up your firmly held thoughts and beliefs. Being respectful of peoples’ space and emotions when talking politics is key.

Don’t Go In Trying To Push Your Views You are not going to be able to get every person you talk to to change their minds. It’s just the truth.

People already have specific opinions and views, and more than likely, you won’t be the one to change their ways of seeing the world. Go into this conversation understanding that, and you can’t lose. Just laying what you think out there, and accepting your friend or family’s thoughts and opinions for what they are will

help the conversation progress. You will probably come to understand more about why they think and believe certain things by not being pushy, which will in turn make you a more well-rounded person when it comes to understanding politics.

Acknowledge and Explain A phrase we have found to work very well is, “I understand what you’re saying, and this is what I think/believe.” By acknowledging the opinion and views of the person you are having a discussion with, you are helping them feel heard and accepted with no judgment. People want to be welcomed for who they are, so open-mindedness is essential. Presenting your views after acknowledging your friend’s is one of the best ways to transition to a different perspective.

On the other hand, cutting your friend off midsentence won’t move the conversation in a pleasant direction. Let them finish, then move on. Showing respect by hearing them out will encourage them to reciprocate that same behavior to you.

No Interruptions, Period There is nothing more frustrating than being interrupted mid-statement, especially when you’re talking about something you’re passionate about.

Take the time to let your friends and family finish what they have to say, and it will pay off in the long run. If the timing is right, you can insert your voice

to move the conversation along or switch to discussing another topic. Lulls in conversation are normal, but there is a difference between hearing someone out all the way and subtly interrupting all the time. Listening to the entirety of what your friend or family member has to say shows you care, which is hard to come by with people who have different beliefs than you. Caring enough to hear their views will make them want to listen and have that same respect when you begin to speak.

Agree to Disagree The world we live in today came to be through countless disagreements. If people had talked through their contrasting opinions and still managed to work together for the good of others, our current state would be much different. Diverging views keep the world turning. If you and your friend can’t agree on the best way to implement a tax policy, it’s okay. If you and your Uncle Dan can’t agree on political sides, it’s okay.

Agreeing to disagree from the start takes pressure off both parties, automatically easing the conversation.

All in all, there are more reasons to have these uncomfortable political conversations than to not.

We must take the initiative to understand and talk to people who think in ways we do not. Doing so has never been easy, but it is vital to choose unity above pride in one’s own views.

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a m g a n i m w p o e ek h gl t r ea A GUIDE TO SUSTAINABLE FASHION

CLAUDIA MATA & MEGAN BONSALL

F

ashion trends come and go, but what’s always consistent is the amount of influence a single trend can stack up. The power of influence is freely given by the everyday consumer and goes to prove that now is the time to spark a movement in working towards a more conscious fashion industry. Over the past year, there has been a major rise in sustainable fashion. We’ve been encouraged to shift our shopping mindsets, strive to be less wasteful, and cause minimal to no harm to our environment. Let’s work together and not let this be a trend that withers away. A clear direction needs to be paved so the clothing industry elevates its standards by raising awareness and demanding the prevalence of more ethical brands.

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Just last year, Huffington Post cited that the average American throws away 68 pounds of textiles per year (not including clothes that were donated or consigned). This, coupled with the fact that most garments are made of petroleumbased fibers that don’t break down easily, makes for a grim situation for Mother Earth. Protecting our home doesn’t automatically mean we can’t look stylish in the process, though. With growing awareness about the harmful effects of fast fashion, shopping sustainably has become more accessible and affordable than ever, so you can fill your wardrobe with clothing that is made to last, and cut down on your contributions to fashion waste. We can still continue to live our lives with lavish gowns, textures, and fun accessories; we just need to halt fashion waste and advocate for sustainability while we’re at it.

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Here are simple ways to be more conscious as a consumer: A key step in finding sustainable clothing is checking the fabric composition. Many garments are composed of a high percentage of petroleum-based synthetic fabrics like polyester, nylon, and acrylic. Instead of purchasing one of these items, try looking for an eco-friendly alternative like Tencel, Organic Cotton, Silk, Hemp, or Linen. These are allnatural fibers, which are biodegradable, and processed with little to no chemicals.

If you’re on the hunt for designer items, browse consignment stores to see if they have what you are looking for. Most of the time, these items are pre-loved and still in mint condition. Moreover, they are usually vintage and unique, which adds a whole new dimension to your look. Some online favorites are TheRealReal & Vestiaire Collective.

Like consignment shops, make sure not to throw away your items that you no longer wear. Collect and send your unused pieces to donation centers or women’s shelters, or simply repurpose them. Someone out there will adore what you no longer need.

In a similar way, online and local thrift stores have some great finds at affordable prices. Pop in every now and then for some one-of-a-kind pieces that will last a lifetime.

This can also help prevent the over-purchasing of unnecessary, more expensive items.

Check out fashion retailers who are committed to producing sustainable clothing Companies like Kotn, Boody, and Everlane are dedicated to perpetuating transparent, sustainable supply chains. In addition, popular brands like Zara and H&M have joined in on the progress by creating and selling long-lasting clothing lines in their stores. Keep an eye out for H&M Conscious and Zara “Join Life” items, which can help you achieve a more eco-friendly wardrobe without breaking the bank.

Know who you’re buying from. Give your favorite brands a search on Good On You at goodonyou.eco. This free resource lets you look up brands and see how they rank on the merits of labor and sustainability.

Shopping ethically is a trend that we can transform to become the norm. We can say goodbye to the endless cycle of fast fashion garments withering into waste and fill our wardrobes with quality clothing that was made to last, all while keeping the wellbeing of our environment in mind. It’s a transition that may take getting used to, but one that will be worthwhile as we move towards less wasteful lifestyles.

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W

SLOW BURN

LARISSA VILLEGAS

e’re alright with a slow burn. As we prepare to dive into the holiday season, we are greeted by the nostalgic feelings of autumn. The air is cooling, leaves are crisping, and bonfires are blazing. Another great part of fall is the candles. Burning a good old pumpkin three-wick can instantly light up any room and exude the calming energy we all need. With that kind of peace, why stress over spending money on a candle when you can make your own?

• • • •

Wax Wick Pencil Saucepan

• • • •

Stove Measuring cup Essential oils Cute glass jar

Directions 1. Melt your wax by putting it into a glass measuring cup, then placing the cup into a saucepan in 2 inches of boiling water. Wax can be purchased anywhere, so choose your base of paraffin or beeswax.

2. Here comes the fun part: customizing your scent using essential oils. Add your choice of oil combinations to the melted wax and mix.

3. Use a drop of wax to adhere the wick to the bottom center of your mason jar.

4. Loop the end of your wick around a pencil and rest it across the jar while pouring your wax.

5. Pour the melted wax into the glass jar and snip off the excess wick to your desired length. Allow 24 hours for the wax to completely cool and harden.

6. Light your wick and enjoy your DIY candle.

Candle making is ideal for those long quarantine days when you need something to spark your creativity. Though we may still face times of uncertainty, the importance of self-care remains golden.

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THE BUZZ ON WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT CHLOE DOWNEY

A

s we sat down to chat, I couldn’t help but notice her silent obsession with skulls and the color jet black, as well as beaming yellow hues and the word “Bumble” on just about every surface and article of clothing.

This girl is definitely not your average college student. A typical day in the life of 23-year-old Connie Rodarte includes working at the golf course in town and keeping up with classwork at Texas A&M University as a Communication major, all while managing nine Bumble Campus teams across Texas, Kentucky, and Kansas.

How did you come to be a Bumble Community Leader?

I’ve been working for Bumble within their college ambassador program, Bumble Honey, for over two years now! Originally, I joined as an ambassador for the campus team at Texas A&M and quickly fell in love with the brand and everything Bumble stood for in terms of their mission and values. My passion for Bumble’s mission of empowerment continued to grow and over this past summer, I accepted my current position as the Community Leader for the upcoming semester.

When I was offered the position, I felt an immediate rush of emotions that quickly took over me—I cried, laughed, screamed, and finally announced the news to everyone close to me.

This moment was exactly what I had worked for all this time. What’s great about being a part of Bumble’s ambassador program is that your work doesn’t go unnoticed and I’m so excited to continue to be a part of the Bumble team.

How has working for Bumble enhanced your college experience?

Working for Bumble has not only helped me grow professionally but also personally in my day to day life.

Professionally, it has allowed me to learn and build a healthy work ethic, and gain a variety of experiences in brand marketing and interpersonal skills. Personally, Bumble has helped me grow into the empowered, strong,

and confident woman I am today at 23 years old. I couldn’t have come this far without the extensive support of my entire community, including my fellow Community Leaders and the wider Bumble team who have become my best friends!

Was there a reason you chose to work for Bumble over other dating applications/sites?

Absolutely. I chose to work for Bumble because of the company’s commitment to women empowerment and its mission in helping people make safe and equitable connections.

Bumble’s initiative to only allow women to message first in a heterosexual match is unheard of in the world of dating applications. How do you think this rule allows Bumble to differentiate itself in a heavily saturated market?

Empowering women to make the first move in the context of heterosexual dating is the feature that sets Bumble apart. When Bumble launched in 2014, no other dating app required women to make the first move and it also wasn’t something that was normalized. Women have always been told to wait until a guy approaches them first when dating, but our Founder and CEO Whitney Wolfe Herd wanted to flip the traditional gender dynamics of dating by encouraging women to make the first move and go after what they want in life. Whitney believed that being the first mover would translate into other aspects 31

of their lives as well. In the beginning, there was a lot of skepticism around this concept and people said no woman would make the first move. Fast forward to 2020, Bumble has facilitated over a billion women-led first moves and is now the first of its kind to bring networking, friendfinding, and dating to a single platform.

Here at A-Line, we are a magazine by and for college women. Our values are kept by encouraging selfexpression and emboldening ourselves, along with those around us. Like Bumble, we’re female-founded and passionate about inspiring young women to grow.

What does women empowerment look like for you?

Women empowerment is about encouraging women to be the most authentic version of themselves and to confidently go after what they truly want in life. It’s also about being able to enjoy the freedom of making your own choices and not being afraid to make the first move.

As a young college woman yourself, what has been your biggest challenge and can you describe how you grew from that experience?

The biggest challenge in college was finding what I was truly passionate about. We get so wrapped up in trying to be a perfect student that we often forget that college is also about the journey of learning who we really are and finding what we truly love.

Where do you think women empowerment is headed in the next decade?

I believe that women empowerment will become a larger movement across the globe, especially with the new generation of young women who are passionate and vocal about gender equality and inclusivity. To me, this means that we could potentially see more women leaders across different industries that are traditionally more male- dominated—such as politics, tech, businesses, or entertainment. An inspiring example of this is Kamala Harris, who is the first woman (and woman of color) to become the U.S. Vice President-elect.

With social distancing and the unexpected closure of common date locations, how has Bumble incentivized dating this year? How have your dating experiences been?

2020 has brought an unprecedented change in our lives and this extends to dating as well. With new complexities around dating due to the ongoing pandemic, we’ve been encouraging the Bumble community to leverage our virtual dating features to stay connected. In fact, we’ve seen that Bumble users are enjoying features like Video Chat and Voice Call, which allows people to make voice and video calls within the app without exchanging personal information like a phone number or an email, to get to know their matches on a deeper level during this time of social distancing. This feature was actually launched pre-pandemic in 2019, but it’s gotten popular over the course of the pandemic as it’s a way for people to go on “pre-dates” to get to know their Bumble match before deciding where to take their relationship next.

Personally, I have made so many connections on Bumble across our three modes (Bumble Date, Bumble BFF, and Bumble Bizz).

Describe the perfect quarantine date.

My perfect quarantine date would be cooking the same meal with my Bumble date via the Video Chat and Voice Call feature on the app so we’re getting some face-to-face time while having a blast cooking together! Cooking is one of my favorite hobbies, which I take so much pride in. We would both get the same ingredients, our drink of choice, and go through the cooking steps together to make a delicious meal!

How do YOU make the first move?

Making the first move is taking it beyond swiping on the app. To me, this looks like making your own decisions— taking those leaps of faith, applying for that higher position at that dream company, or taking initiative in different areas of your life, whether that’s in dating, friendship, or professional networking.

After connecting over the shared experiences of finding our place in the world, it’s clear that Connie is as much of a kind, gentle soul as she is a fiery businesswoman. To open up about the challenges we face as college women—venturing out into an era where we are beginning to take the first initiative—is remarkable, and if nothing else, inspiring to both younger and older generations. The saying, “The future is female” has opened up room to question: is the future now?

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This interview with Connie Rodarte has been edited and condensed for clarity.

“

Women empowerment is about encouraging women to be the most authentic version of themselves and to confidently go after what they truly want in life.”

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Ruth Bader Ginsburg, We Owe it All to You KORTNIE FRANZEN

O

n September 18th, 2020, Justice Ginsburg passed away at the age of 87 from pancreatic cancer. Ruth Bader Ginsburg, otherwise known as Notorious RBG, has paved the way for women’s equality and will forever be remembered as a warrior of equal opportunity. Let’s take some time to honor her accomplishments and reflect on all of the progress she has brought about for women.

Standing at only 5’1”, Ginsburg has always been a force to be reckoned with. She was one of only nine women in a class of over 500 students when she attended Harvard Law School back in 1956.

While in college, her beloved husband Martin Ginsburg was diagnosed with cancer. In order to help him graduate on time, she attended his classes for him in addition to her own. She managed to juggle her own school work along with her husband’s, and the caretaking of both her sick spouse and their toddler all at once. The strength of this woman was unmatched.

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Before she was appointed to the Supreme Court of the United States, Ruth Ginsburg worked as a lawyer for the American Civil Liberties Union, otherwise known as the ACLU. This is where her fight against sex discrimination began. Here, she fought over 300 cases regarding gender discrimination and co-founded the ACLU’s Women’s Rights Project. Thanks to Ginsburg’s efforts, it is no longer required that women have a male co-signer to apply for credit cards and mortgages. Additionally, women can no longer be denied admission to state-funded schools on the basis of sex. Overall, Ginsburg worked endlessly to help women preserve their own decision-making power in regards to their reproductive rights, and so much more.

One of Ginsburg’s landmark cases that should be mentioned is the United States v. Virginia proceeding. The Virginia Military Institute, otherwise known as VMI, was a men’s state university that barred women from being admitted into the institution. The question RBG was dealing with within this case was whether this rule to omit women from admission, based on preconceived notions of what women are capable of, is validated within our Constitution or not. Ultimately, the court ruled the VMI institution as not upholding the values of the Constitution. As a result, women are now granted admission to the institution and are treated equally as cadets within VMI. This is just one example of the many successful cases driven by Ruth Ginsburg that have revolutionized the way we view gender equality today.

In 1993, former President Bill Clinton appointed Ginsburg to the Supreme Court of the United States, commemorating her as the second woman in U.S. history to take a seat. Since her appointment, Ginsburg engaged in numerous monumental cases regarding civil rights. Court cases ranging from same-sex marriage to reproductive rights, RBG has advocated for not only women’s equality, but for that of all American citizens. Through and through, she fought incredibly hard to sustain her ideals and influential presence on the Supreme Court. Even when battling colon cancer, pancreatic cancer, and suffering the loss of her husband, she still managed to gather her strength and lead. What an icon.

Through life and death, Ginsburg will be forever known as a fierce pioneer for equality.

From her, we have legislative certainty that women belong in the workforce, that we are capable of doing anything we set our minds to, and that our gender does not make us inferior. She has proven to us what a confident, powerful woman can truly accomplish. She has empowered women for decades and will continue to do so for decades to come.

Consequently, we must carry on her legacy and continue support young girls and women in all of their endeavors.

to

“Fight for the things you care about, but do it in a way that leads others to join you.” -RBG

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The Fashion Aest P

ersonal style used to be seen in a very black-and-white way. We were deemed one of three things: girly, edgy, or athletic. However, we have since evolved. In our modern world, we are exposed to more fashion aesthetics than just the ones readily familiar to us. By learning about all that’s trending, we can curate looks that best fit our personal style.

"Style is something each of us already has, all we need to do is find it."

-Diane von Furstenberg

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sthetics of 2020

KATIE COLLINS

n is "In difficult times, fashio alway s outrageous."

-Elsa Schiaparelli

A large part of this personal style renaissance occurred in the middle of quarantine summer. The globe was put on lockdown, meaning that we all had more free time than ever on our hands. It was a period for reinvention and self-care. For a lot of people that meant a wardrobe check, aligning the contents of their closet with the person they wanted to be. Here’s to highlighting the biggest personal aesthetics of 2020, those of which are ever-evolving.

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Cottagecore Afternoon frolic through the gardens, anyone? The heart of the cottagecore aesthetic is seen in all things floral and flowy. It is girly and feminine, almost to the point of being doll-like. With this aesthetic, you are one of the Victorian girls in the paintings. In clothing, we see this trend represented by loose, feminine dresses and big, puffy sleeves. Cottagecore also features a lot of ruffles, white linen, and dainty embroidery in pastel florals.

Academia If preppy is the school uniform, academia is the seasoned college professor. This is the style that would rock a tweed blazer. This aesthetic is full of neutrals and rich jewel tones, those being navy, burgundy, and emerald.

It has a mature and classic appeal, as it shies away from loud prints, and is more complex than plaid. Academia follows a simple silhouette with breathable tops and blazers, paired with a more fitted trouser or skirt.

Preppy This trend makes people stop and wonder whether you’re on your way to a tennis competition or private school. These looks are created by styling together collared polos, sweater vests, cardigans, tennis skirts, and pleated skirts. Think: Princess Diana couture. One of our favorite ways to style this is by tying a cardigan over the shoulders, a simple yet effective way to look posh.

Streetwear Streetwear is fun because the typical rules of fashion no longer apply. The “rule” is that when wearing a loose top, you must pair it with a fitted bottom, and viceversa. However, streetwear revels in its baggy silhouette.

Oversized tees, crewnecks paired with jeans, and bucket hats are a few key factors in a classic streetwear look.

If the baggy jean look is not your thing, then biker shorts are also a good piece to style with a roomy tee.

Beachy/Soft The beachy style is simple, sweet, and feminine. Looseknit tops and sweaters tucked or knotted over equally flowy skirts make up this breezy look. Some of our favorite skirts of the year are tiered cotton skirts, which epitomize this trend. Color wise, beachy-earth tones like Pantone’s Coral Sands and Turf Green are some of the more commonly seen shades. In true college girl fashion: if comfy clothes are wrong, we don’t want to be right.

Brandy Casual is now cute again. Brandy Melville started as a clothing store, and has since inspired a whole genre of style. It is largely composed of outfits made from only the basics; baby tees and tanks have never looked this good. The Brandy aesthetic looks like a lot of solid fabrics (cotton, denim) with the occasional faded floral thrown in. Everything is simple in terms of silhouette, but we do see a lot of layering. Trending outfits can be seen in oversized zip-up hoodies or cardigans over more feminine tanks and dresses.

Classic Minimalist The classic minimalist is sensible and elegant, being built entirely on neutrals. The detail and focal points of these outfits are more so on the fabrics than the colors. Since the neutral color palette is what ties the looks together, you can pair some juxtaposing textures.

You also get to play around with satins and silks with the Classic Minimalist. Day to day outfits include blouses paired with silky midi-skirts, cotton tops with high-waisted trousers, or blazers over denim.

Y2K/90s The biggest fashion style to emerge from 2020 is Y2K, which is inspired by the late ‘90s and early 2000s. These outfits take trends from the period (1990-2010) and reinvent them, seen in the pairing of lingerie corsets with low-rise jeans. There are no color restrictions in this trend, as they range from pastel to neon. Y2K also capitalizes on animal prints, namely cheetah, cowhide, and zebra.

In reference to neon, bright monochrome outfits are an instant way to look Y2K. Besides clothes, bag trends are also going back to their roots. Tiny purses may not be the most functional, but they are unbelievably stylish.

The word “golden” describes not only a color, but a state of thriving. This is your golden age, your golden hour—so find what embodies your essence in its fullest. Make every outfit count. This act may seem trivial, but developing a personal sense of style only brings you closer to discovering yourself.

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39

THE AGE OF PROTEST

HOW QYNETTA CASTON IS TAKING TWITTER ACTIVISM TO THE STREETS

In the Mind of a Golden Girl GEM PRIGMORE Qynetta Caston, a 19-year-old political science major from Dallas, Texas, has a lot more to her than one might find in her Howdy intro. For starters, she’s been leading the loudest and proudest oncampus protests that Texas A&M has seen in years.

We sat down with her to find out more about how she is taking initiative in this nationwide return to peaceful protest: Can you describe your first experience with protest/activism?

My first experience with going to a protest was in May. I went to a protest in Dallas, which had thousands of people. It was a very emotional moment for me because we were protesting and under the First Amendment, that’s our right. We have a right to protest. We were tear-gassed…my friends were pushed to the ground, arrested. That’s why I came back here to College Station and wanted to do something and start protesting again.

How do you decide what forms of activism you will partake in?

Yeah, I guess protesting for me came more natural.

I didn’t expect it to go this far if I’m being honest.

I think we’re going on our sixth or seventh protest.

When I first started, it was me and a few friends that got together and said, “We need to do something.”

Protesting was a way for us to actually get out there physically and use our voices. I use social media as well to raise awareness about different things and try to promote unity. But protesting is more natural to me.

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Why do you feel like protesting is returning majorly? Is it just that nationwide events are escalating, or is protest becoming more productive/valuable?

Protests are becoming more prominent because we’re becoming more educated on what’s happening around the world, specifically to Africans and other Black people. And that right there, us becoming more aware of the things that are going on in Africa, is inspiring us to go back out and protest.

How do you think using Twitter to organize your peaceful protests has been beneficial? Harmful?

Social media definitely increased outreach because, before I got started with everything, I didn’t reach as many people. I kept to my tight-knit circle. I had about 200 followers on Twitter. After I started protesting and started to reach out to people, following people who stood for what I stood for, my following went up. I started to contact more people.

So yes, social media has played a big role when it comes to the turnout of people at the protest, but it can be negative. A lot of people believe the first thing they see, and they don’t really know the truth behind it. It can be a negative thing, but it has worked in my benefit as well.

What changes would you like to see from Texas A&M University?

I would like for Texas A&M to make more initiatives towards helping the Black community and communities of color and to be more proactive with everything. They created a commission, but the facts are all online. The percentage of the student body

motivates and drives me is the future generation Aggies. I don’t want another Black female in twenty years to go through the same thing that we’re going through today when it comes to racial injustices on campus. Definitely thinking about those little kids who are going to be here in my place in a few years.

It’s what motivates me.

GEM: So why the division?

Exactly. Why is it so hard for A&M to retain and keep Black faculty and students? One thing that we could possibly ask for is for A&M to do more outreach to get more students so that the three percent number can increase to at least 10, 11 percent. I’m sure that’s feasible.

Caston has taken a few moments of passion for change and turned them into a part of a larger movement. Her actions on campus are making waves—not just locally, but nationally as well. In September 2020, Susan Svrluga for the Washington Post wrote that current students are challenging positions that alumni have long held close.

Chancellor John Sharp also announced this summer that an additional $100 million in scholarships would help the university system’s demographics “look like Texas.” Change is slowly unfolding, but only with people like Caston fighting to make it happen.

What changes would you like to see on an individual level in our campus community?

I would like for individual people to become more aware of their actions. For example, people can be biased towards a specific group and not know it. And I’d like for people as young adults to do the research.

There’s a lot that people can do to be better and make a positive impact in the world. On an individual level, they could be working towards becoming a better version of themselves and not putting people down.

What do you see in the future for yourself ?

I do want to keep protesting, of course. Maybe another one this semester. But really when I want to get back up and running is the beginning of next semester, since finals are right around the corner and the semester is cut short. Right now I’m going to be working with various organizations to come up with a strategic plan and initiatives that the university can take to impact the Black community. I’m going to start the planning process.

What motivates you? What keeps you going through all this?

What drives me is thinking about my niece.

She’s almost a year old. She’s very young. What I think about and what

This interview with Qynetta Caston has been edited and condensed for clarity.

that’s Black is available online. For example, three percent of the study body is Black. Someone told me that A&M is making incremental changes, but as an institution, they should be making institutional changes. The percentage of Blacks in Texas is about 11 percent. And we’ve been at three percent at Texas A&M for over two decades.

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girl,

GLOW

skincare during the time of masks GRACE DOERING

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A

s we know, face masks are the new normal.

When keeping our faces covered for long periods of time, we block the fresh air that our skin needs to breathe.

As Texas heat-induced perspiration is unavoidable, it leads to clogged pores and inflammation, making our chins and lower cheeks primary targets for breakouts.

Following guidelines and respecting one another by wearing a face mask is a top priority, but you can still keep your skin healthy and glowing while staying safe.

Start Fresh Before putting on your mask of the day, start with your regular skincare routine. Cleaning your face before and after wearing a mask will remove dirt, oil, and other bacteria so you start the day with a fresh canvas. Always protect your skin with a layer of moisturizer right after washing your face and applying toner. Additionally, make sure your products are the right fit for your skin type. Try not to overdo the moisturizer before putting on a mask, because this will add to the moisture already building up when breathing in your mask. Instead, focus on maintaining the moisture balance.

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Mask Type & Care The look of your mask should not take priority over fit and fabric, so don’t skimp on quality when buying a mask. The fit of your mask should also be snug, so it can stay put and protect you throughout the day. Having a well-fitting mask is key to avoiding maskne (the new acne) because it means less touching your face to adjust, so you’re no longer spreading bacteria and oils. Different types of fabrics can be better for more acne-prone skin. Cotton masks, for example, are more breathable and softer on the skin, so there’s no irritation. Turn away polyester and nylon, as these tend to scratch and abrade the skin more. When in a safe place away from others, be sure to take off your mask for five minutes every three hours, with washed hands. The CDC also recommends washing your mask after each use.

Makeup & Masks Wearing makeup is usually part of an everyday routine.

There are so many articles on how to wear makeup while also wearing a mask but realistically, you might want to consider skipping your skin makeup altogether. Trapping foundation under a mask can clog pores, and lead to more breakouts. If wearing no makeup is a no-go for you and you need to release that inner artist, try playing up the parts of your face that are not covered by your mask. A fun eye look is an ideal go-to and will stay on your face all day, smudge-free.

Day’s Done, Masks Off Once you’re done with your masked-up day, give your skin a little TLC. Anti-inflammatory oils are budget-friendly and amazing for sensitive skin, including tea tree oil that fights inflammation and bacteria. Rosemary oil is another must for naturally oily skin types. For those acne blemishes that you can’t seem to shake, apply acne patches before bed to fight pimples. Acne patches have grown in popularity, as they typically contain powerful ingredients like salicylic acid, Vitamin A, and Aloe Vera. Patches also prevent picking and work to eliminate blackheads and deeper acne spots.

Wearing masks is the new norm, but maskne doesn’t have to be. Here at A-Line, we want to say thank you to all front line workers, professors, and everyone who is continuing to take CDC precautions throughout these troubling times. Until next time, wear your mask and wash ‘yo face.

HOW TO: 45

let the light in

MADISON QUINN

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D

ays may be getting shorter but course loads haven’t lessened any. Now would be the perfect time for everyone’s motivation to naturally kick into overdrive, but sometimes it’s necessary to manually switch gears. Even though most dorm rooms double as classrooms this year, it’s still possible to make the most of your space with the one thing everyone has at their disposal: natural light. good morning, sunshine It’s easy to slip into a slump when there’s no light to wash over your unmotivated mood. Time and time again, sunlight shows how mentally and physically beneficial it can be. Bite the bullet and flip open the shades first thing in the morning.The sunshine will keep your brain alert enough to push through morning classes and skip the post-lunch power nap.

While you’re busy typing away and making the most of your time, notice the hidden powers of a little sunlight. Natural light reduces eye strain and the presence of headaches—two common side effects of a day spent doing schoolwork online. Computer screens commonly produce dry and tired eyes.

Combat the blue light with a golden one and your mind and body will thank you.

Added bonus: the movement of the sun across the sky creates an ever-changing ambiance for your study session. a lightbulb moment No windows? No problem! Make full spectrum light bulbs your new best friend. They may be artificial, but these light bulbs mimic the sun by producing the entire visible light spectrum. Pop them into your lamps and ceiling lights to reap the benefits of having natural sunlight—minus the UV damage.

trick of the light Break down those four walls and open up your space without having to call Chip and Jo. Swap that outdated poster for a wall mirror and allow the feeling of confinement to melt away. Mirrors bounce light and dial up your room’s brightness a few notches, providing the illusion of space

where there isn’t any.

It might take a couple rounds of Command Strips to pinpoint the best angle for reflecting light without blinding yourself, but the radiant end result is worth it. Giving yourself space to breathe and work helps expand your mind and introduces possibility.

Needless to say, the sun has never met a mirror it didn’t like. get the green light This new abundance of light is bound to keep your room glowing from wall to wall. Why not add some extra life to make the most of it? Household plants never go out of style and add more than just a pop of color. Proven to enhance air quality, encourage mental clarity, and lower stress levels, indoor plants deserve more credit. Their presence alone may pave the way to your next academic breakthrough.

Don’t worry if maintenance isn’t your strong suit!

Snake plants and ZZ plants tend to be particularly forgiving, seeing as they thrive in the sun and don’t mind being forgotten. Set them on the windowsill to sunbathe and catch yourself smiling as they grow with you. put those led lights to use Eventually, the sun will set and your source of natural light will be nonexistent. It’s time to click on those famous LED lights, or buy yourself a set if you haven’t succumbed to the TikTok peer pressure yet.

Whether trendy or overrated, even color psychologists can’t deny their promising potential.

Color has more influence over the brain than one might think, so take full advantage of it by basking in it. Green shades encourage problem solving, while blue tones promote fluid conversation and self expression. Both colors can assist in conquering those fast-approaching essays that look a lot like blank Google Docs right now.

In times of uncertainty, one thing remains true: the sun will rise again. Open your room and mind to the possibilities of nature and let its light rejuvenate youeven on days that feel cloudier than most.

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BE PRESENT IN YOUR GOLDEN HOUR madison corley

MADISON CORLEY

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t’s insanely easy to get wrapped up in the ebb and flow of what we know as everyday life. From working our minds into overdrive to investing more time into our peers than we would ever think to allot for ourselves, it is clear to see how we can easily get sucked into the endless cycle of mundane routines. When was the last time you did something for yourself? We’re not talking about the last time that you treated yourself to a spa day—when was the last time you did something truly beneficial to your soul? How long has it been since you stepped back from the hustle and bustle of it all and said to yourself, “Wow, I love being me”? This is what we are missing. We are collectively missing ourselves.

Being present in your own life is one of the hardest things a person can do. Realizing that you hold the power to fulfill your heart’s deepest wants and desires is one of the most liberating epiphanies. Too many people have forgotten that this issue is so very relevant in each of our lives. It’s time we regained our golden hour. It’s time we reclaimed ourselves. Many of us fall under the category of people who are always putting others before ourselves. It feels so undeniably rewarding, to do something sweet for a significant other or give

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up preferences in order to make friends happy.

Many of us have also been the person who allowed their work to drain them so much mentally that the exhaustion started to attack physically. We end up devoting more time to our exterior life and it slowly starts to make us drift away from our inner selves.

There are days when we look at ourselves and don’t even recognize our reflection because we know that we’ve been happier. It’s almost like peering into a mold that was made specifically for us, but filling it with actions and things and people that don’t exemplify what we actually want out of life. Confusion is the best way to describe the range of emotions. Slowly, those feelings begin to turn from every few days to every single day. We are being sucked into the riptide and we are knowingly allowing it to happen. We are no longer present in our own lives. It’s not an easy process learning how to accept that the life we are living is not entirely for ourselves and knowing how exactly to get out of the situation.

The day you determine that you need to start living for yourself, is the day your life will begin its metamorphosis right before your eyes. Starting this process is one of the hardest personal endeavors because the gratification is not instant; if it were, then everyone would do it. The mere act of finding yourself challenges you the entire way. It most certainly makes you contemplate, “Why am I doing this?” If the answer is any reason other than for yourself, you have to let it go. If you don’t want to do something, you have the power to say “no.” The starting point hurts. Being painfully honest with yourself hurts, but to reclaim your power, you have to do what is best for you—even if it’s the hard thing. If you want to pack up everything you own and move halfway across the world, you have the ability to do so. The kicker? You need to take the first step. Regardless of what you decide to do, others are going

to have opinions about your life, whether you ask for them or not. Once you open your eyes and realize that you’re not merely the supporting character in others’ lives, you can then begin becoming the main character of your own life.

“There is no denying the fact that you have found yourself.

It will literally hit you all at once and you will most certainly know what is going on the instant you begin to feel it.”

Once you find yourself, you start to love the most microscopic parts of who you are. This is what it truly means to be present in your golden hour—to be completely grounded in your life and to love yourself unconditionally. Falling head over heels in love with yourself is a journey. If you are too busy getting wrapped up in negativity, you completely miss the painting in the sky. You miss the most breathtaking time of the day: golden hour. When you sit back and allow yourself to be content, you don’t miss out on the little loves.

You owe it yourself to not let go of who you are. Hold it to be true that you are a radiant soul. Have your golden hour moment and revel in it.

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who we are In dreaming up the mission behind our organization, the intention was twofold: recognize the creative talent of the individual and fuel their capacity for greatness. Voila—enkindle the human spirit through self-expression and embolden all to excel beyond their social norms.

Allow us to explain: We envisioned each written work, curated photo, and skillfully crafted graphic to be a bold platform for our community of creators to shine. Our members are the new-generation artists that grace our digital day and age with contributions of modern relevance, leaving positive imprints on our college community. Our unique trait is the A-Line print issue, a tangible representation of us that defies online standards and relights the magic behind the magazines we cherished growing up. We understand the reality we live in: those brief, quiet moments amid our busy lives are priceless. Through an effortless scroll on your device, we hope to open the door to the relatable article you didn’t know you needed, advice on being productive during a pandemic, and of course, style inspiration to bring out your inner trendsetter. A breath of fresh air in an ambiguous world, we are unified through the common interest of passion—a free kindling of the crafts that set our souls on fire.

Let’s get to creating, together.

Sincerely,

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Dasom Lee Co-Founder & Co-President

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pecial thanks to our sponsors:

PUBLIC & MAIN THE SOCIAL KITCHEN

WHERE EVERY HOUR IS HAPPY

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WE’RE ONLINE. thealinemag.com