The Official Student Newspaper of Georgia College & State University
October, 1 2024
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Hurricane Helene damages Georgia
Emma Eslinger Asst. News Editor
GCSU canceled classes on Thursday and Friday, Sept. 26 and 27, due to Hurricane Helene, a Category 4 storm. The hurricane hit Baldwin County on Thursday evening and the heaviest effects continued into early Friday morning.
The storm was about 350 miles long with wind gusts up to 140 miles per hour when it made landfall in Florida, and by the time it hit Milledgeville, the wind was estimated to be 45 to 50 mph with gusts reaching 70 mph, prompting Baldwin County to issue a local State of Emergency.
The hurricane made landfall on the big bend of Florida and then plowed north into all of Georgia and many of the surrounding states. This is the third storm to hit this region of Florida in the last 13 months.
The hurricane started as a Category 1 but grew to a Category 4 storm in
a day. Its rapid strengthening contributed to the large amounts of damage seen across the southeast. The Gulf of Mexico is experiencing record warm water temperatures, with Hurricane Helene having a water temperature of 89 F. That is two to four degrees above what climate scientists con-
SIP AND SEE: new mural brightens walls of Milledgeville coffee shop
Morning Grind sports a colorful map of the city
Kate Walker Staff Writer
As students returned to Milledgeville this fall, many of them noticed the colorful new mural adorning the corner of West Montgomery Street.
Morning Grind coffee shop, already a favorite among students, added a new, colorful mural to its walls that has made it all the more popular.
“The mural was honestly a God thing,” said Bridgette Smith, the
owner of Morning Grind. “We collaborated with Visit Milledgeville, and they ended up giving a grant to our building, and the grant was able to cover the cost of the mural.”
Smith recruited GCSU students Mattie
Thompson, a graduate of the studio fine arts program, and junior graphic design major Landry Weaver to paint the mural. Weaver now works as a barista at Morning Grind.
sider normal during a typical hurricane season.
As of Monday evening, the storm is confirmed to have killed 116 people, including 25 in Georgia. More people remain missing, largely due to widespread loss of service and power.
The hurricane trudged all the way up to Asheville, North Carolina, flooding the whole town, with the Ashe-
ville River Arts District completely underwater. A Tennessee hospital was flooded as well. Many Georgians lost power and spent the last few days dodging large debris, heavy rain and large wind gusts. All of Georgia experienced the impacts of the storm, but some areas were hit harder than others.
Chlorine skies?
Conyers BioLab fire blows smoke and smells south
Kate Verity Editor in Chief
The smell of a swimming pool and a white tinge filled the air in Milledgeville on Tuesday, Oct. 1 as a cloud of chlorine drifted south from Conyers, Ga. where a chemical plant caught fire on Sunday morning.
The incident occurred at BioLab, a facility that manufactures chemicals to treat pools. The accident began as a fire, but the smoke that continues to fill the east Atlanta sky into Tuesday is no longer the product of fire, but that of a chemical reaction.
The white pillar of smoke was both visible and smellable from I-20. The interstate was shut down Sunday afternoon but reopened by the following morning. Additionally, a shelterin-place order was issued to local residents in Rockdale County, but it too has since been lifted.
On Monday afternoon, the smoke could be seen from the interstate as a plume in the distance. However, just 24 hours later, the interstate itself was shrouded with white smog in the miles that stretch nearest to the plant.
Page 3
Life after college: Where do we go from here?
Delaney Derry Opinion Editor
Students of GCSU, it’s no mystery that once we graduate, there’s an entire world out there just waiting for us. There are endless possibilities for what we can do with the rest of our lives once we leave university and enter into the desolate place that is the real world.
So, we’ve made it to graduation, but where do we go from here? How are we supposed to afford liv-
ing after we’ve graduated college?
It’s becoming more and more apparent to me that once we leave college, our dream jobs do not just magically fall into our laps. That’s fine though, because we are prepared for that. We know that it takes work to get the jobs we want.
Let’s be honest, we’re still young and figuring things out. There’s so much time. We are just starting, so let’s relax. Your career that you have
been working towards the past four years will come your way… I really wish I actually believed that. We spend the entirety of college juggling classes, work, internships, extracurriculars and more so that we can be set for a life beyond our university bubble. We work and study hard so that we can have stability, security and peace of mind.
Lady Bobcats faced tough competition at Lee University where they played in two tournaments.
Matthew Malkowski | Digital Media Editor
Julia Jensen | Art Director
See CHLORINE |
Soccer legend Alex Morgan announced her retirement. How heavily did she impact girls in
UPCOMING CAREER FAIR OFFERS DIVERSE OPPORTUNITIES
Mary Ciucevich
Asst. A&L Editor
GCSU’s Career Center will host their annual Fall Career and Graduate School Fair for undergraduate and graduate students alike. The fair will take place on Wednesday, Oct. 2, in the Centennial Center.
“These fairs provide a platform for students to meet employers from a wide range of fields and explore diverse career paths,” said Carolyn Douglas, an internship coordinator at GCSU.
The fair offers students the opportunity to meet recruiters, network and make connections with possible job opportunities. It includes tabling from major employers like Atrium Health, Atlanta Motor Speedway, Cintas Corporation and many more.
“The career fairs benefited me by introducing me to different employers around Georgia and other states,” said Julia Whalen, a junior market-
ing major. “I was able to connect with them and learn information about their different businesses and organizations.”
This fair allows students to explore the options within their given major or showcase other opportunities that can be taken if they were to change majors.
Students gain exposure to graduate programs and part-time and full-time job openings. They can benefit from the fair’s informational guidance as they can learn about different internships and engage with career paths
VOLUME 104 | NO. 3
Editorial Board
Kate Verity.........................
Paige Blakemore............
Julia Jensen.......................
Shadimon Smith.............
Emma Eslinger................
Brennan Schmitz...........
Benjamin Clark...............
Kylie Rowe.........................
Mary Ciucevich...............
Delaney Derry..................
Isabella McComis..........
Matthew Malkowski.....
Rebecca Ocampo..........
Kassie Arps.......................
Eva Galova........................
based on their majors.
“The Career Center’s primary goals for events like the Career and Graduate School Fair are to connect students with valuable job and internship opportunities and to introduce them to various graduate programs,” Douglas said.
Some of the graduate programs that will be present at the fair include Anderson University, Augusta University, Furman University, GCSU’s own graduate programs and more. Any undergraduate student is able to attend the fair and gain insight into potential ed-
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Arts & Life Editor
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Ad Sales Manager
Faculty Adviser
ucational opportunities.
“Attending a career fair allows students to meet face-to-face with recruiters and grad school admissions counselors, giving them the chance to make a lasting impression beyond just being another resume or application in a stack,” Douglas said.
Students can also leave their personal resumes with any internship or job that piques their interest.
The Career Center aims to provide students with the necessary tools to succeed in their desired majors. Other than the annual fairs,
the Career Center offers advising appointments to students throughout the semester to help with any questions about their career paths.
“Common appointment topics include career or major exploration, resume reviews, mock interviews, graduate application preparation, LinkedIn reviews and career fairs preparation,” Douglas said.
In these appointments, the center focuses on any career or graduate questions, as well as any help needed to prepare for a students’ future. Help with CV writing, resume writing, job and internship searching, networking and personal statement writing, is provided.
“The Career Center helped me with my resume, which was a big step in applying for jobs I’d be interested in on LinkedIn,” said Sydney Auriemma, a senior mass communication major.
The Career Center’s
annual Fall Career and Graduate Fair assists students by providing insight into their futures. Other than the Fall Fair, GCSU’s Career Center hosts other events throughout the year, including the Teacher Recruitment and Mock Interview Day and the Spring Nursing Recruitment Fair.
“It is important to have career fairs at Georgia College because it allows students access to direct planning for their futures,” Whalen said. “College is about preparing you for your career and the career fairs put that preparation into action by connecting you with employees who are seeking college students or college graduates.”
The Career Center schedules weekly appointments Monday through Friday from 9 a.m.- 4 p.m. Students can schedule an appointment through their website or by phone, as well as stop by their drop-in days.
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New Podcasting Club: “GC Weekly”
Jaylen Mahayag Staff Writer
GCSU has introduced a new way for students to connect with campus life: GC Weekly, a podcast produced by members of the GCSU Podcasting Club. The club, advised by Dr. Chad Whittle, an assistant professor of mass communication, releases episodes every Thursday. The episodes offer insight into student groups, campus events and interviews with students and faculty.
With a background in radio broadcasting and podcasting, Whittle explained why he launched the club.
“Podcasting has really grown over the past decade,” Whittle said. “I thought providing students with an opportunity to learn podcasting and gain experience producing podcasts would be beneficial. It’s a growing industry.”
His goal is to equip students with crucial skills in today’s media landscape.
“The podcast is a great line on students’ resumes,” Whittle said.
HURRICANE
Continued from page 1
“Employers are looking for graduates who have experience in writing, video and audio since it’s a profitable medium and an effective way to reach audiences.”
The student-run podcast has quickly gained momentum, thanks to a dedicated team led by president and host Mary Sinkule, a senior mass communications major. Sinkule joined the club due to her passion for communication and the opportunity it offered to connect with others.
“I’ve always loved connecting with people,” Sinkule said. “Podcasting gives me a platform to learn about what others are passionate about. When I interviewed for the role of president and host, it felt like the perfect fit. I wanted to lead our team in creating engaging content and inspire others to get involved.”
Producing GC Weekly is a collaborative effort. Sinkule described the team’s process for preparing each episode.
“First, we meet as a team to discuss who our guests will be for each
major is from Waynesboro, Ga, which is about an hour and a half east of Milledgeville and an hour south of Augusta.
CHLORINE
Continued from page 1
As the smell hit Milledgeville, students took to YikYak, a popular anonymous college campus-centered message board app, to voice their thoughts.
“Is it just in my head or does anyone else got a headache from the musty air…” one post said.
“Georgia just can’t seem to catch a break,” said another user, in reference to the recent statewide destruction
portion of the show,” Sinkule said. “Then, I research the subject and the episode’s potential guest to learn as much as I can about them prior to the interview. After that, I draft a rough outline to use as a guide throughout the conversation. Alyssa Crosby, GC Weekly’s producer, schedules a time with our guests and ensures they are prepared and comfortable.
Finally, after recording the episode, Turner Gillis, GC Weekly’s editor, works his magic to perfect our episode before being published.”
As the producer, Crosby, a senior mass communication major, plays a key role in making sure each episode runs smoothly.
“My role involves sourcing guests for weekly interviews and staying on top of upcoming events to find relevant speakers,” Crosby said. “I help ensure that each episode features engaging conversations by coordinating interviews and selecting guests who can offer valuable perspectives on timely topics.”
“Waynesboro got destroyed with the hurricane; it’s basically flattened,” Adkins said. “There have been many trees that have fallen on numerous houses in our neighborhood. The entire community has rallied together to help everyone, such as sharing hot water and gas heaters.”
Hurricane Helene caused significant damage in Augusta as well. Around 5,000 power line polls still remain damaged and most state routes now have at least one lane open.
caused by Hurricane Helene, which prompted the university to cancel classes last Thursday and Friday.
The Environmental Protection Agency in Georgia monitored the BioLab situation in partnership with the plant itself and the Georgia Environmental Protection Division and Rockdale County.
“The odor threshold for chlorine is very low, meaning that people can smell it at very low concentrations that do not cause harm,” the EPA
For Gillis, a senior mass communication major, the editing process is rewarding but requires attention to detail.
“The most challenging part is making sure everyone is on a somewhat similar volume level and taking out all the weird noises people make or background audio,” Gillis said. “It’s rewarding because it feels good knowing I did some edits, and the listener won’t notice it. Just finishing the episode is satisfying in that base sense of it feels good to complete something.”
GC Weekly aims to make a meaningful impact in the GCSU community by sparking curiosity and connection among listeners. Sinkule hopes the podcast encourages students to engage with campus life in new ways.
“I hope that GC Weekly will create a sense of connection and curiosity within our community,” Sinkule said. “By sharing diverse stories and passions I want listeners to feel inspired to engage with others and participate in new experiences.
Clayton Goolsby, a freshman exercise science major, traveled up to Augusta before the hurricane hit and experienced the storm hitting that area.
“It’s worse than we thought it would be,” Goolsby said. “With most roads having zero traffic lights, only three or four buildings with power and trees blocking roads. People fortunate enough to have chainsaws on hand like my dad and I spent most of Friday and Saturday clearing neighborhoods
in Georgia said in a statement. They also continue to post the results of their monitoring in 12-hour increments on their website.
At 11:39 a.m., student email inboxes were hit with a GC Alert addressing the fumes.
“...today because of wind shifts and the low cloud cover over Milledgeville and Baldwin County, the smell of chlorine has been detected in our area,” the statement, signed by GCSU President Cathy Cox, said. “Nevertheless, we
GCSU is such a special community full of so many unique opportunities that we do not want anyone to miss out on.”
Crosby also noted how the club has impacted her growth by pushing her outside of her comfort zone. She notes that this experience has impacted her social skills by creating a more outgoing version of herself.
Whittle has high hopes for the club’s future and sees it as a longterm fixture on campus.
“My goal is that the club will consistently produce a podcast weekly during the fall and spring semesters,” Whittle said. “I want it to become a well-known resource for students to stay up-
and roads so emergency vehicles could mostly drive through, but there’s really nothing to do but wait for power.”
Many other GCSU students call Augusta home. Hannah Lanoue, a junior marketing major, is also from Augusta.
“My family was hit hard,” Lanoue said.
“Luckily, all people and animals made it through without a scratch and there wasn’t any real damage to the house. They still do not have power and are being told there won’t be pow-
have no information from the Georgia Emergency Management Agency (GEMA) or the Baldwin County Emergency Management Agency, both of which we are in contact with, that concentrations of the leaking gases are of such a level in our area as to be hazardous.”
The alert, also posted to GCSU’s social media accounts and Cox’s “gcsupresident” Instagram, goes on to suggest that students who might suffer from respiratory issues should consider staying inside as much
dated on what’s happening around campus.”
As the club grows, it remains open to new members. Sinkule encourages anyone with an interest in communication or media production to join.
“Whether you’re interested in hosting, producing, editing or just sharing ideas, we’d love to have you on the team,” Sinkule said.
The club meets every Monday in the podcast studio located in Terrell Hall. The podcasting club’s presence is growing; students and faculty can keep up with them by following their Instagram @gcsupodcastingclub.
er until Oct. 5 at the earliest. Schools are closed at least that long.” GCSU has set up a Hurricane Relief Drive to help sister universities, namely Augusta University. The drive is asking for donations of non-perishable food items, particularly items that require little to no preparation, bottled waters, electrolyte drinks, hand sanitizer and hand wipes. Donations can be received at Campus Corner at the Student Activity Center, The Depot or at the Centennial Center.
as they are able. Additionally, the forecasted cloud dissipation for the afternoon led the university to expect the chlorine aroma to dissipate from Milledgeville soon. By 4 p.m. on Tuesday, the odor was no longer detectable on campus.
In a Tuesday press release from Rockdale County, officials advise that Georgians shelter in place if the cloud and smell of chlorine drifts over their location.
Courtesy of GCSU Podcasting Club
Preston Adkins, a senior exercise science
Matthew Malkowski | Digital Media Editor
Partnership for Inclusive Innovation Grants
Chloe Sanders Staff Writer
The Partnership for Inclusive Innovations Community Outreach Grant program announced the regions for its 2024 cohort on Sept. 6 at the Community Research Showcase in Milledgeville, Ga. GCSU is one of five communities chosen to participate in the Community Research Grant Program.
PINN is an organization that was created in 2020 in hopes of building coordinated and regional efforts to make Georgia the leader of innovation, opportunity and shared economic prosperity. They aim to work with universities, cities and non-profits to provide financial support for projects that help the respective communities and cities they reside in.
Community Research Grant artificial intelligence focus spans three states: Georgia, Alabama and South Carolina. In Georgia, the projects are based in Chatham County, Forsyth County and Millen.
This cohort highlights projects that utilize artificial intelligence, or AI, to help researchers’ communities by combating pesticide poisoning and improving water infrastructure. There has been a collective $13.1 million awarded across 27 projects, along with PINN’s investment of $2.5 million.
“I am very iffy when it comes to artificial intelligence considering that it’s primarily human input that is being modified by a computer, but I feel like it could be helpful in a lot of cases,”
said Ally Charles, a freshman criminal justice major. “I think a lot of issues that stem from AI come from AI being used in place of human work rather than it being used in tandem with it.”
The project teams are composed of a diverse group of 10 researchers representing four different universities, alongside collaboration from six local government entities and four K-12 educational partners.
“At Georgia Tech, we believe in our mission to develop leaders who advance technology and improve the human condition,” said Ángel Cabrera, Georgia Tech President in a video message at the event. “We are committed to giving everyone in our state the opportunity to benefit from technological innovation that can make their communities more secure, sustainable, resilient, and equitable and that’s exactly what we’re doing here.”
This program is aimed at fostering collaboration between university researchers and local governments. This program provides essential support through various means, including financial funding, expert consultation and project management resources.
Additionally, it grants access to the partnership’s summer internship program, which connects students with hands-on experience in community-based projects. Participants also benefit from a network of peers, facilitating knowledge sharing and collaboration over the course of year-long pilot projects.
GCSU’s Academic Expo
Shadimon Smith News Editor
GCSU hosted its annual Academic Expo in Magnolia Ballroom. The expo introduced students to the many majors and minors at GCSU. The expo was put on by the academic advising center here at GCSU on Wednesday, Sept. 25 at 10 a.m. and ended at 3 p.m.
Walking up to Magnolia, students were met with balloons and faculty waiting to check their Corq apps.
Students walked in and were given a questionnaire sheet that could help them determine their career interests. Some of the questions included: What are your strengths and talents? If you were to choose this major/minor, what topics would you be studying?
Each major had a table
with information packets and trinkets to give away to students who attended.
“We just like talking to students and talking about our major,” said James Welborn, an associate professor of history.
“History is a humanities discipline, so it is about people, and it is about a diverse set of people and understanding how different cultures and perspectives come together to create these key moments in the past. It never gets old to engage with all those different ideas and perspectives. History in particular teaches you how to understand people at a deeper level.”
Majors such as music therapy, psychology, business, teacher education, marketing, theatre and dance all had their respective tables. Students spoke to the professors of each major and learned
“I think funding AI programs is very useful,” said Maya Lewis, a junior biology major. “Especially since AI is like an evolving and recent technology and it is growing still.”
In Charleston, S.C., and Savannah, Ga., there are problems with coastal flooding, and one of the approved projects is set to use AI to help predict flood impact on roads. This project hopes to reduce economic strain on each community and allow for emergency services to reach those in distress faster.
“Our public safety agencies face a number of challenges during flood events, and we now have an opportunity to leverage cutting-edge technology to improve the level of service we provide to our citizens,” said Jenny Costa Honeycutt, Charleston county council public safety committee chair. “I’d like to thank the research team and Partner-
what each course could teach them and how they could use it in the future.
“I am trying to learn about the other majors and minors here other than my own,” said
Herr, a
exercise science major. “We talked to the criminal justice table, and we just learned kind of like what goes into being in that major and
ship for Inclusive Innovation for helping to fund this important initiative, and I look forward to getting started.”
According to the press release, another project is based in Millen, Ga., where they hope to use AI to reduce pesticide exposure near cotton farms. The use of pesticides has affected the residents of Millen, and the city has decided to partner with Georgia Southern University to give farmers pest data in hopes of reducing the amount of pesticide used.
“I think AI is good in moderation,” said Mallory Jones, a freshman accounting major. “I feel like it should not be overused to the point of reliance, but I think it is good in helping guide you to the right answer.”
PINN is working towards achieving its goal of making Georgia the leader in innovation and economic prosperity through funding these projects.
the schooling you have to do. The jobs that you can get because of it.”
In GCSU’s graduate program, students can study to earn their master of arts to teach middle-grade students or earn their master’s of education in special education.
“We are both exercise science majors and our seminar class required it for the course,” said Kate Foster, a freshman exercise science major.
“I thought it was interesting that you could minor in criminal justice as well. I thought it was just a major.”
The theatre and dance departments were also in attendance. To earn a degree from this program, students must complete classes like stagecraft, introduction to design and introduction to costume.
“I’m here to help peo-
ple learn more about the Theatre Program and the Dance Program,” said Beate Czogalla, a professor of lighting and stage management. “We have a theater major, minor and dance minor. Most people do not know that you can participate in Georgia College theatre even if you are not a major or minor.
All of our productions are open to all Georgia College students, and we’d love for everybody to come work with us.”
The Academic Expo helps students to see the different fields that GCSU offers to the students enrolling and helps the students find what best works for them. It helps people get a better feel of the majors and minors, which could benefit them in the future.
Christin
freshman
Isabella McComis | Digital Media Editor
Julia Jensen | Art Director
Falcons’ new era
Is victory on the horizon?
Hudson Taylor Staff Writer
In the offseason, the Atlanta Falcons got busy, signing Kirk Cousins to a four-year deal worth $180 million with $100 million guaranteed. They also signed receivers Darnell Mooney and Rondale Moore.
The Falcon’s offense has been exciting for fans to monitor and talk about, but their defense has made some improvements of their own. Late into the preseason, the Falcons signed star linebacker Matthew Judon from the New England Patriots. Alongside safety Jessie Bates and cornerback, A.J. Terrell, this defense is one to watch during the 2024-2025 season.
The first game of the season was the Falcons vs. the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Steelers have also made a quarterback change, with Justin Fields set to lead their offense. Fields, whom the Falcons considered signing in the offseason, may be playing with a chip on his shoulder after the Falcons passed on him to sign Cousins.
The Falcon’s first drive looked promising, driving down into the red zone and kicking an early field goal to take the lead.
On Cousins’s second drive, he threw an interception directly into the arms of DeShon Elliot.
Cousins would throw a touchdown late into the second quarter to tight end Kyle Pitts, making the score 10-6 for the Falcons. The second quarter was a disaster as edge rusher T.J. Watt was in the backfield, repeatedly. This caused two turnovers, with one being the game-sealer late into the fourth quarter.
The Steelers did not score a touchdown. Field goal kicker Chris Boswell kicked six field goals, and that was all the Steelers needed to win.
During the days leading up to the Monday night showdown in Philadelphia, there was a lot of talk regarding whether Cousins was healthy coming off his Achilles injury.
Due to the rivalry between the Atlanta Falcons and Philadelphia Eagles, many fans would argue that there is not
a harder place to play than in Philadelphia, so this would be a rough test for Cousins and the Falcons. The Eagles have made changes to their team as well by signing star running back Saquon Barkley from the New York Giants.
As the game began, both teams were showing that this was going to be a dogfight. The Falcons were running the ball with second-year running back Bijan Robinson and third-year running back Tyler Allgeier. Going into the third quarter, the score was 7-6 with both defenses looking great.
There had only been one touchdown in the first half, and it was a seven-yard touchdown pass from Jalen Hurts to Devonta Smith. There was much more offense in the second half and both quarterbacks were bringing their A game.
Late into the fourth quarter, it was looking like the Eagles were going to run the clock out. On a pivotal third down, Barkley dropped a pass that would have put the game away if he were to catch it.
This gave the Falcons an opportunity to drive down the field
and score a touchdown, which would give them the lead. With just one timeout left and only one minute and 30 seconds left, it took Cousins three plays to get inside the Eagles 15-yard line.
Cousins would throw a touchdown to Drake London with 34 seconds left in the game. With the extra point being good, the Falcons took a 22-21 lead.
On the second play of the Eagles drive, Hurts threw a wide pass that was intercepted by Bates. This was a huge win for the Falcons and got fans back on track thinking this team could win.
“After the Eagles got into the red zone with a minute and 30 left, I thought the game was over,” said Jared Carter, a senior accounting major. “I couldn’t believe
Cousins drove us down the field as fast as he did and won us the game.”
In week three, the Falcons would play another prime-time game against the two-time defending champion Kansas City Chiefs. Another daunting task for the Falcons as the Chiefs once again are looking great and are 2-0 through their first two games.
In what was a close game, the Falcons struggled with time of possession and thirddown conversions. The Chiefs controlled the ball for nine more minutes than the Falcons, with the Falcons only converting two out of their nine third downs.
The Falcons also battled some controversial no-calls from the referees which cost them. Either way, the Fal-
cons lost 22-17 in what was a very well-played game by both teams.
The Falcons are now facing the Steelers, Eagles and Chiefs who are combined with an 8-1 record through three weeks.
“So far the Atlanta Falcons have had a solid start to the season,” said Carter Kling, a junior marketing major.
“The defense has looked pretty legit, and Kirk Cousins is learning more each game with his new team and playbook.”
Heading into week four, Atlanta faces their division rival, New Orleans, in a crucial NFC South Matchup. With what was another tough win for the Falcons, victory was barely pulled through with a field goal in the 2nd quarter.
AVA MARTIN RECOGNIZED FOR EXCELLENT START TO THE 2024 SEASON
Bryan Cohen
Contributing Writer
Junior forward and midfielder Ava Martin had an offensive explosion in the first four games for the GCSU Bobcats Women’s Soccer team, helping lead the team to a 3-1 start to the season and earning the honors of the Peach Belt Conference Player of the Week.
Martin only played in six games the previous year due to a knee injury, and she was definitely hungry to get back on the field. Martin showed off her dominance on the offensive side of the ball, tallying two goals and two assists during her performances against Middle Georgia State University and Valdo-
sta State University.
After her impressive opening to the season, Martin was tied for sixth place in both points per game and assists per game in the Peach Belt Conference.
showing how quickly she can adjust to her environment. She then scored her first assists and goals of the year.
“She has brought grit and hard work to the team,” said Adri-
adjusted to the harsh environment of women’s soccer in the Peach Belt Conference. The Bobcats have a difficult schedule in an already difficult conference, yet it does not seem to affect Martin.
goals in the back of the net,” Duque said.
Besides the physical aspect of the sport, awareness, as always, is essential. Martin’s teammates are confident in her ability to use that.
Martin did not play in the Bobcats’ first two games of the season,
ana Duque, a senior midfielder.
“Ava’s intelligence on and off the ball has helped the team find
“I think the team as a whole has helped Ava have success up top
with assists and goals by being able to find her in the final third,” said Morgan Amrozowicz, a senior midfielder. After dealing with the injury from the prior season, Martin was looking for a bounce-back year, and the team surrounding her was searching for any way to help her achieve that goal.
The Bobcats have played well this year, outscoring their opponents 10-5 off of 63 shots in the first four games of the season. This shows how heavily they lean towards the offensive side of the sport. It seems like the team has no issue with relying on certain players, like Martin, to make big plays when the ball is sent her way.
Atlanta Falcons
Martin seems to have
Courtesy of GCSU Athletics
GCSU volleyball team faces tough tournament
Ryan Grant Staff Writer
GCSU’s Women’s Volleyball team finished two major tournaments, playing four school teams the weekend of Sept. 13. The tournaments were the Lee Tournament and the Flames Invitational. These two tournaments consisted of two separate games, all of which were hosted by Lee University in Cleveland, Tenn.
The four schools that GCSU challenged were; Lee University, Lincoln Memorial University, Arkansas Tech, and Eckerd University. After the four games, GCSU dropped to a 3-5 win/lose ratio.
The volleyball team did experience adversity in Tennessee, but the coaches and the players agreed that the Lee
Tournament and Flames Invitational improved their awareness of other competitors. While at face value, the score went down, team morale had only increased.
GCSU faced Lee University first at the Lee Tournament. In their fourth set, Lee University won with the Bobcats only having one win.
In GCSU’s second game on Friday, Sept 13., Lincoln Memorial University won with the same score of three to one.
GCSU’s team only won two sets during the tournament out of a potential 12.
This standing of only two sets won means that the other two teams beat GCSU three to zero.
That Saturday, Arkansas Tech and Eckerd University both won
games against GCSU.
The volleyball team was ranked number five out of 36 schools. As of Aug. 29, the Peach Belt League Coaches gave them four votes.
Lander University ranks second in the Peach Belt Conference. They will compete against GCSU on Oct. 5.
Augusta University will be playing GCSU on Oct. 12 after ranking first in the Peach Belt Conference. Augusta University boasts five wins in the Peach Belt Conference in the last six years.
“The main thing that we need improvement on right now is not going to five sets,” said Dai Lamaster, GCSU’s graduate volleyball coach. “We are hitting our goal.”
In volleyball, the teams play a best-of-five match,
with the team’s strategy being to wear their opponent down by not exerting themselves during the first few games.
“We missed way too many serves,” said Abigail King, GCSU’s head volleyball coach. This was one of the coach’s concerns when exploring how team improvements could be made throughout the remainder of the season.
To start a round of
America sees rise in sports betting
Are college students wasting their money?
Benjamin Clark Asst. Sports Editor
Sports betting is a prevalent pastime among many American sports fans and sports enthusiasts around the globe.
In Georgia, sports betting is still technically illegal. However, apps like PrizePicks, DraftKings and FanDuel have loopholes in their legality, like using VPNs or signing up under a different state.
Founders Adam Wexler and Jay Deuskar of PrizePicks argue that their platform does not partake in gambling and is more of a game of skill, therefore it surpasses state constitutions that would otherwise outlaw the application.
Easier access to sports
betting could be very harmful to sports fans, as the possibility of addiction can make it easier to wager money they may not have. Forbes
Betting recently released a statistic showing how Americans on a whole wagered $119.85 billion in 2023, up by 27% from the previous year.
“I think it’s very damaging,” said Cade Steel, a junior history and philosophy major. “However, I don’t think it should be illegal per se. The restrictions around it should be greater, as the ads remind me of early cigarettes and pharmaceuticals, with flashy ads and stuff that seem to draw in younger people.”
This perspective seems
to be shared among many Georgia legislators, with the issue becoming a hot topic over the summer. As betting has become more prevalent among Americans, the enjoyment of sports viewing could be affected.
“I don’t think sports betting has made a positive or negative impact on my viewing experience,” Steel said. “However, all the commercials for draft kings and other sportsbooks are incredibly predatory and annoying when played on things like the Redzone.”
Sports betting could also affect the viewership of games, as people will typically gravitate toward watching games that they have some sort of stake in.
“It doesn’t affect my enjoyment, but I definitely see how it could for other people,” said Cooper Treadaway, a junior business administration major. “I have friends who, if they don’t have their house down on collateral for the game, then they just won’t watch it.”
Many students raised several really important perspectives regarding the sports betting culture. Some examples expressed are the predatory advertising of betting and the dependence on betting for enjoyment.
Steel also raised many positive perspectives regarding sports betting, saying that it can be very interesting and engaging for those who par-
play in volleyball, a valid serve must be hit over the net. Most of GCSU’s invalid serves are over the opposing team’s out-of-bounds line. Starting a good round would improve the team’s final scores.
The Women’s volleyball team consists of 20 players eager to finish up 18 more games with the best they can before the Peach Belt Tournament.
Since the tournament,
the volleyball team has acquired three more wins and will have competed against Flagler University on Sunday, Sept. 29. at the Centennial Center.
“We have to fight as a team. We can’t play individualized through those hard times,” said Camryn Carlton, a volleyball player and public health major at GCSU. “As long as we can stick together, we can win a game.”
take in its responsibility.
Students seem to agree that sports betting and gambling in general might become very addictive, with many people in America gaining dependence on betting to further enjoy games.
This is one of the perspectives that Georgia legislators use to argue against sports betting in Georgia. However, students and advocates for sports betting also argue that they should be
allowed to express their freedom to do what they want with their money.
Apps like DraftKings are extremely prolific in America for sports betting, and it is important to keep an eye on Georgia’s legislative developments regarding the pastime. If legalized, these apps will likely emerge and gain traction extremely quickly, especially in colleges and universities like GCSU.
Courtesy of Julia Jensen | Art Director
Courtesy of GCSU Athletics
ARTS & LIFE
Finding the perfect spot
Molly Goff Staff Writer
GCSU is known for its picturesque campus layout, which is filled with the perfect spots to study, do homework or hang out with friends. The way students decide where to spend their time could be chalked up to chance or grueling trial and error.
Some students find that the atmosphere and distractions of a campus setting do not always contribute to their productivity.
“I usually do homework in my apartment,” said Hannah Lanoue, a junior business management major. “I usually don’t go to places on campus because of distractions.”
For students like Lanoue, studying at home offers control over their environment, but many others gravitate toward on-campus study spaces that offer a range of settings for different needs. Whether students thrive in solitude or need the light hum of activity, GCSU has a spot for it. Here’s a guide to some of the best study locations around campus.
Russell Library— The university library remains a top contender for the ideal study spot. With floors that cater to different levels of quiet
MURAL
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where students can find a section that matches their preferences. The third floor, known for being a designated quiet area, attracts students who need to focus without interruption. The lower levels, with group study rooms and computer access, are better for collaboration.
“I prefer to stay in quiet places and keep someone with me so I stay accountable to keep doing my assignments,” said Katie George, a freshman finance major.
The library provides a balanced environment where students can be surrounded by others yet still maintain a sense of personal space for focus.
Outdoor Spaces— For students who enjoy the outdoors, several locations across the GCSU campus offer nature-filled, serene environments. The grassy lawn of front campus, the shaded benches near the A&S fountain and the seating by the Wellness Center & Recreation Center on West Campus offer perfect spots for students looking to enjoy the fresh air while hitting the books.
“Study sessions with friends outside or at the sorority house help me stay productive,” said Hannah Beth Chapman, a sophomore history major. “I only
study with them when I am ahead because I get more distracted when I am with them.”
These outdoor spots allow for flexibility and a change of scenery, especially for students who prefer not to stay cooped up indoors for too long. While they may not offer the level of silence available in indoor locations, they bring a refreshing alternative.
Health Sciences
Building— For students who are particular about avoiding distractions, this spot is a hidden gem. Its third floor, known for its quiet atmosphere, is a less-trafficked area where students can focus.
“I sometimes choose to study on the third floor of the Health Sciences Building because of minimal distractions,” said Kaitlyn Hall, a junior exercise science major.
This spot combines the benefits of indoor study with fewer interruptions, making it ideal for students with heavy workloads.
For those who like to balance socializing with studying, sorority and fraternity houses can serve as productive spaces, especially when the atmosphere is calm. Study sessions in these houses often combine structured learning with peer support, and
many students appreciate the accountability that comes with studying alongside friends. Still, it is important to gauge personal productivity levels in such environments.
For instance, some students find studying with friends works best when they are already ahead, as group settings tend to
bring more distractions.
“The most effective place to study is in a study room so I have no distractions,” said Ansley Vom Saal, a freshman forensic chemistry major.
GCSU’s campus has a wide range of study environments that cater to all preferences for those seeking the buzz of fellow students, the seren-
ity of outdoor spaces or the isolation of a study room. The key is understanding what study situation works best and matching that to the available spaces around campus., There is no one-size-fits-all study spot—it’s all about finding the right balance between focus and comfort.
The mural features a
“I think it brightens the space up and showcases the artistic talents of Milledgeville,” said Julia Whalen, a junior marketing major “I also like that it’s a public art piece because downtown Milledgeville doesn’t have a lot of those compared to other cities.”
colorful, abstract map of Milledgeville, designed to include landmarks such as Lake Sinclair, the Greenway, the Governor’s Mansion, GCSU, Georgia Military Col-
lege and the railroad. Flowers are distributed throughout the map to represent the unique individuals who work and live in Milledgeville, reflecting the diversity the small town has to offer.
“I know that this is one of the busiest intersections in Milledgeville, so I wanted it to be eye-catching with bright colors,” Smith said “I love it because every morning I go in, and it just catches your eye. It’s something fun, it makes you smile and I also just love the details of the actual map, with GMC and Georgia College, you can see downtown, you can see the coffee shop where we’re at. I think it’s
a really fun and unique mural and it brings a lot of life to Milledgeville.”
Morning Grind opened in October of 2022, with the goal of providing high-quality coffee to encourage students and community members to push through their busy days. Since its opening, the shop has quickly become a local favorite, with special drinks like their Sunshine Surge, Thunder Thirst and Milledgeville’s Mocha.
“We’ve definitely grown, and it’s been something that the community and our regulars in the community have stuck with and fallen in love with it just as much as we have,” Smith said. Morning Grind continues to serve students and locals in Milledgeville with coffee and now with a beautiful mural as well.
“I hope the community loves it just as much as we do and now, we’ll get even more customers through it, with it being an eye-catching spot,” Smith said. “I’m super thankful that this was able to happen.”
Last year, it was awarded the Union Recorder’s Reader’s Choice Award as the best coffee shop in Baldwin County. Next month, Morning Grind will celebrate two years of serving the Milledgeville community.
Matthew Malkowski | Digital Media Editor
Isabella McComis | Digital Media Editor
ARTS & LIFE
GCSU IS BRAT.
Paige Blakemore Managing Editor
This summer, social media was flooded with lime green and classic, all lowercase
Arial font thanks to British singer/songwriter Charli XCX’s sixth studio album, “BRAT.”
Released on June 7, 2024, the dance-pop album is an eclectic take on womanhood and society. Subsequently, it has led to online trends on social media, namely TikTok, such as the “Apple” dance and others taking their own spin on the album cover.
“I think there’s a lot of different factors contributing to the popularity of this album,” said Bella Jalbert, a junior mass communication major.
“Mainly, the recognizable cover, and how it’s so easy to use the same green and put a random word or phrase on top of it to make it your own. It’s just
a fun party album, and I’m glad Charli is finally getting her followers.”
According to Billboard, following its release, “BRAT” debuted at No. 1 on the Top Dance/Electronic Albums chart and No. 3 on the Billboard 200.
“Brat” trends have been so widespread that it has made its way into the unprecedented 2024 presidential election.
“kamala IS brat,” said Charlie XCX in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, in July of this year showing support for the Democratic presidential candidate and Vice President Kamala Harris.
Following this public endorsement, Kamala HQ, the official social media presence for the Harris campaign, followed the “brat” trend by posting a photo with the widely recognized green and same font acknowledging
the account’s mission.
“BRAT” has also made its way onto the GCSU Instagram account in a post promoting College Colors Day that took place on Aug. 30. It is a strategic marketing tactic that catches the eye of a younger, college audience.
“bobcats wear green,” the Instagram post said. “maybe not that green.”
In the fashion world, “BRAT” is characterized by cropped white tank tops, unbuckled platform shoes, stains and, overall, not caring what others think. Lyst, a fashion search engine, reports that searches for clothing that is “bright green” rose 332% this year.
Many have coined the term “brat summer” in response to the trend, meaning a youthful, carefree, cool-girl, party aesthetic that is appealing to Generation Z and Millennials and synonymous with summer nights.
Recently, Charli XCX announced another
version of the album, “Brat and it’s completely different but also still brat,” that is set to release on Oct. 11.
Among some, the term “bratumn” is now being used online as an extension of “brat summer.”
“I don’t understand the trend,” said Erin Young, a junior exercise science major. “I’m not quite sure I understand the definition, so I don’t think
I had a ‘brat summer.’”
In anticipation of the upcoming album, Charli XCX has collaborated with well-known musical artists like Troye Sivan, Billie Eilish and Lorde, which has only added to the success of not only the music but also the trend.
In September and October, Troye Sivan and Charli XCX will be co-headlining the “Sweat Tour” in support of
their respective albums “Something To Give Each Other” and “BRAT.” “I had as much of a ‘brat summer’ as you can in Woodstock, Georgia, and I’m going to the “Sweat Tour” this week,” Jalbert said. “I’d say I’m gonna have a ‘bratumn’ as well.” If last summer “Barbie” pink was all the rage, 2024 is stamped with “BRAT” green.
Nontraditional college experiences: Irma Ali
Kylie Rowe A&L Editor
Undergraduate college, for the majority of the population, begins after high school graduation and continues until the desired degrees have been achieved. However, that is not everyone’s situation. Some of it comes down to circumstance, and sometimes it is a personal choice.
Irma Ali, a 30-yearold mass communication student with a strategic communications concentration started college in 2021 at GCSU. She had originally begun her college journey in 2012, after she graduated high school, but quit to start her own photography business.
When Ali moved back to Georgia, she decided she still wanted to obtain
her bachelor’s degree.
A concern with coming back or starting college at a non-traditional time is that all of your peers will be younger than you. However, the only difference Ali has noticed is that she feels as though is taking classes more seriously since she has already started her career.
While being a fulltime college student, Ali is also working fulltime and commuting. When she originally started college in 2012, she was unemployed and living on campus, showing her how being an adult can make balancing many responsibilities more difficult.
“I feel more confident in my career path and choices,” Ali said. “I’m taking everything
more seriously and taking better advantage of opportunities on campus. It’s more about time management now
and realizing I’m on my own as an adult.”
Even though Ali has her own photography business, part of the
reason that she wanted a degree in mass communication was to expand what she was able to do. Many feel that a communications degree can open many doors.
“I hope to be doing PR for a record label or advertisement/social
media for brands I love and believe in,” Ali said.
Currently, Ali is building her professional website in her senior career development course and is finding that being 30 in college with the experiences she has may be beneficial in the long run.
“I’m seeing a major impact while I’m building my resume versus my classmates,” Ali said. “I’m struggling on what to keep on there while others are trying to find things to put on it. I think I might have a leg up in that aspect.”
Building a professional profile with around six years of professional photography work gives Ali a head start in the kind of content that employers will be looking for. Now that she has a degree almost
completed, she is more than the full package. Non-traditional college students who may be afraid to get out there and be involved on campus can look to Ali, as she attends mass communication department events and works with GC360, GCSU’s college news station.
Ali is making the most of her college experience and encourages all other non-traditional students to do the same.
“Do what you want to do no matter what others have to say,” Ali said. “I felt so unfulfilled after leaving and it feels amazing to be almost finally done after coming back. Things will fall into place. Everyone has their own timeline.”
Courtesy of GCSU University Communications
Courtesy of Irma Ali
OPINION
WHERE
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However, I feel all we truly get by graduation is burnout, student debt and a ceremonial handshake for a “job well done.” Was it “well done” when I was up at 2 a.m. having a mental breakdown because my paper was at seven pages instead of the minimum requirement of eight? How much does our hard work really pay off?
The harsh reality is that there are not that many open doors for us when it comes to an entry-level, full-time job that comes with a stable income. I’m worried about how I am going to live once I leave college. I’m not so worried about getting a job—I think if you have a bachelor’s degree, then someone somewhere will hire you. I’m not worried about getting hired. I am worried about getting paid enough to live.
“I’m terrified,” said Harper Mason, a senior English major. “I feel like there are not a lot of jobs out there for En-
glish majors in general and with inflation and prices rising I don’t feel like I will be stable after graduating. Then, I think about what if I spent thousands of dollars to get a degree for nothing because I can’t afford anything?”
People like to say things like, “Oh, this generation is just lazy and no one wants to work.” Well, that may be slightly true, but for the most part I’d say that we do want to have jobs. We work hard for four years to have better opportunities so that we can work.
But where are they? Where are these better opportunities? There are some jobs available, don’t get me wrong, but not the work that pays us enough to actually live. Not real careers. With inflation and the cost of rent skyrocketing, how are we to afford a house, let alone a decent place to rent?
According to Realtor Magazine, “Rents are rising faster than paychecks. The median apartment rent has jumped more than 16% in the past year alone. Rents are up 28% since January 2017,
The greatest of
all
according to Apartment List data.”
Well, what about cutting costs by having a roommate? That’s a great idea. Split the rent with a roommate, and all will be well… yeah, right. Even with a roommate, upon applying, renters need to show property owners that they can afford the rent. They will want to see cash savings, lengthy and stable work histories and previous work experience, which many post-grad students lack.
“Although most of the students surveyed report receiving some financial aid through loans, scholarships or grants, 55% still said their financial situations have negatively impacted their lives,” said Kamaron McNair, a writer for CNBC News.
If over half of recent graduates say that they do not feel financially stable enough to live after college, what are we supposed to do with that? If that many graduates feel this way, then what’s to be done? Where is our help?
It is also interesting to think that most students continue into graduate school
time retires: Alex Morgan ends 15 year career
Delaney Derry Opinion Editor
Sept. 5th, 2024 was a historically sad day in history for United States women’s soccer fans. None other than THE Alex Morgan has officially announced her retirement from professional soccer.
Morgan is one of the greatest goal-scorers in the history of the game, a champion of the U.S. Women’s National Team, or USWNT, and just an all-around popular women’s soccer
star across the world. Now, it may seem a bit dramatic to spotlight an athlete’s retirement as a historical day for the U.S., but it’s only the truth. It is no secret that Morgan is considered one of the most incredible soccer players of all time, and it is sad to see her go. She will be greatly missed by fans and teammates as she walked off the field on Sept. 8 for the last time, which was only a few days after an-
nouncing her retirement. We fans did not have enough time to process this. Come on Morgan, what were you thinking?
According to the USWNT’s. Women’s National Team website, “She[Morgan] scored in 86 of her 224 international appearances (good for ninth all-time in U.S. history), while making 158 starts, and she captained the USA 23 times during that span. In the 86 matches in which Morgan scored the USWNT never lost,
Morgan
just to delay their inevitable unemployment only to delve deeper into debt. School is important. I get that. I’m not saying it isn’t worth it to go to college. I just mean our world outside of college is just not the same place it used to be, and it may be a bit more of a concern than we realize.
It’s a wild world out there. But, if we know what to expect, maybe we will be better prepared for when it comes time to dive in. Do not feel discouraged if your life doesn’t reflect exactly what you planned or hoped for once you leave the campus behind. The idea that you have the perfect house on a cute little piece of land or an apartment in Manhattan with your dream job just may not be in the cards when you’re 22 and fresh out of college, and with this economy, it will probably take some time before you’re stable enough to live all on your own at all.
To quote Monica Geller in the pilot episode of the popular television series Friends: “Welcome to the real world. It sucks. You’re gonna love it.”
ly looked up to her as a kid and continue to do so now as a young adult.
going 76W-0L-10D.”
In all seriousness, Morgan truly deserves this retirement. Her professional soccer career has lasted for the past 15 years. She started out very young, attending her first USWNT training camp at age 20. She is now 35 years old with a two-year-old daughter, and she just announced she and her husband’s second baby is on the way. Morgan is an allaround successful woman, both on and off the field, and she has truly made a name for herself as one of the greatest athletes of all time. She is known as a great role model for girls everywhere. She has always been a great example to me because of her determination and strength. I always real-
Many years ago, I had the privilege of watching her play in Nashville when I was maybe 10 years old. It is one of my favorite memories from my childhood. Morgan was such an inspiration for that little girl who just loved the game of soccer. I always looked forward to watching the USWNT games because I knew she would be playing. She helped motivate and encourage me to be a better player, and I thank her for that.
I think a lot of young girls who grew up watching Morgan probably think the same thing. She was not just a great athlete, but a hero to us. The path is not always easy for female athletes. She may have been good at what she did, but it is no mystery that even strong
women struggle for success. Through it all, she stayed true to herself and continues to inspire people. Morgan may be a great athlete, but she is also a great teammate, role model, friend and mother. She is a woman of many talents who is beloved by so many loyal fans of the game. I wonder if she ever knew what she would become when she scored her very first goal. I only hope her daughter grows up to know her mom as the legend she is, and that they spend lots of time kicking the ball around their yard just enjoying the game.
“My desire for success may have always driven me, but what I got in return was more than I could have ever asked and hoped for,” Morgan said in her final remarks to conclude her professional career.
Alex
