Vol. 108 Issue No. 4 - 11/20/19

Vol 108 | Issue 4 | Nov. 20, 2019 | San Antonio, Texas

Defining Moment Defies Expectations Photos by Samantha Ruvalcaba

SAMANTHA RUVALCABA NEWS EDITOR

Two years ago, in a room filled with students, faculty, staff, and benefactors at the Marriott Rivercenter Hotel, President Mengler announced the launch of the Defining Moment Comprehensive Campaign with a goal of $130 million. On

Nov. 8—the campaign’s halfway point— that same room was filled to hear the announcement of the campaign surpassing its goal, raising $138 million and setting a new goal for $150 million.

Talks of this fundraising campaign began after the hiring of vice president for university advancement, Richard Kimbrough, back in 2014. Between 2014 and 2017, planning

took place and conversations were being held with potential benefactors, resulting in a strong financial start to the campaign.

“In November of 2017, two years ago, we announced that we had this $130 million Defining Moment campaign and that we had already raised at that point almost $105 million,” Mengler said.

The campaign has three principles: to

promote St. Mary’s pervasive culture of excellence, deepen its most distinctive, vital characteristic— its Catholic and Marianist identity, and to enroll and prepare students for purposeful and successful careers.

So far it has proven to be the university’s most successful fundraising campaign, the second largest being $22 million. Mengler believes that what differentiated this CONTINUED ON PG. 2

OPINION

LIFESTYLE

ENTERTAINMENT

SPORTS

PG.7

PG.11

PG.13

PG.11

Should college athletes be paid?

Secondhand clothing is the newest rage

Lizzo’s amazing rise to fame

Lady Rattlers kick off basketball season

2 NEWS

EDITOR: SAMANTHA RUVALCABA | @STMURATTLERNEWS | NOV 20. 2019

SNAP | FEATURED PHOTO

THE RATTLER

Thank you for the support this semester. Be on the lookout for our first issue in the spring!

Send us your photos to be featured in the Rattler. Email them to rattlernews@gmail.com

L-R: Sophomore international and global studies major Aneesa Zubair, freshman political science major Christian Aviles, and freshman political science major Maria Cervera look over one another’s resolutions for annual Model Organization of American States weekend competition. | Photo by Natalia Zuniga

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Democratic primary loses a Texas candidate ROBERT MONCADA STAFF WRITER

On Friday, Nov. 1, former Congressman Beto O’Rourke announced he would be dropping out of the 2020 Democratic Primary. This comes after months of declining poll numbers, with O’Rourke maintaining a Real Clear Politics polling of 1.0.

“It is in the best interest of this party as we seek to unify around a nominee,” O’Rourke stated in a letter to his supporters on his campaign website.

“It will be interesting to see where his supporters end up” said political science professor, Dr. Ian Smith. “The last few months—in terms of supporters—there was a reason why he dropped.”

With O’Rourke dropping out of the presidential race, the crowd dwindles to a 16 candidate primary, with Texan democrats now shifting their focus on the sole Texas native, former United States Department of Housing and Development Secretary and San Antonio Mayor Julián Castro. Polling at FROM “DEFINING MOMENT”

EDITORIAL STATEMENT The content published in the Rattler is the responsibility of each respective writer. The views expressed in the staff editorial reflect the views of the majority of the editorial staff.

MISSIONS Grounded partially in the Marianist values of family and community, we maintain an open forum for discussion. We strive to produce quality content that informs, not inflames; encourages, not discourages.

We must be sensitive, not sensationalistic; reasonable, not ridiculous; balanced, not bitter.

campaign from the rest was its broadness and applicability to all four schools.

“We articulated a vision for St. Mary’s that is deeply attractive and conveyed persuasively to our benefactors that St. Mary’s University is an institution worthy of their significant investment,” Mengler said.

“Our vision is to become among the finest private universities in the southwest.”

Over 10,800 donors resonated with this vision. Of those donors, 35 gifted $1 million or more, 2,400 exceeded $1,000, and 3,500 gave less than $100.

This campaign paved way for the increase in Marianist leadership programs from 60 to

1.5 in the Real Clear Politics Poll, the former Obama cabinet member has yet to break out amongst front runners Senator Elizabeth Warren, former Vice President Joe Biden, and Senator Bernie Sanders.

This has led some to believe Castro is eyeing the number two spot on the general election ticket.

“It feels that the only reason he’s still on is because an even bigger candidate is keeping him on,” said Saul Contreras-Martinez, junior political science major. “This is to see if he’s vice president material or anything like that”.

Within the past debates, Secretary Castro has spoken up about other candidates such as O’Rourke, Biden, and most recently South Bend, Indiana Mayor Pete Buttigieg.

On June 26 in Detroit, Castro suggested O’Rourke “do his homework” on the topic of immigration. On Sept. 13 in Houston, the San Antonian targeted Biden and his age, with Castro remarking that Biden had forgotten what he said just a few minutes ago on the debate stage.

In his appearance on Comedy Central’s

“The Daily Show with Trevor Noah” Castro said after Buttigieg offered to show him around the city of South Bend, he remarked that the city of San Antonio is populated with 1.5 million citizens, 14 times larger than Buttigieg’s home town. Castro went on to joke Buttigieg’s city population of South Bend could fit inside San Antonio’s Alamodome.

In early November, the Castro campaign pulled out of New Hampshire, closing the campaign office in the state. Castro continues to urge his followers to continue their support.

“I don’t say this lightly: If I don’t make the next debate stage, it will be the end of my campaign,” stated Castro’s campaign in an email to its supporters.

It seems as the election carries on, Castro has yet to have his stand-alone moment that can be crucial for candidates in a primary as big as this one.

“There’s some room [to grow],” said Smith, “If Castro picked up some early state votes, maybe he would matter, but he seems to be stuck in a rut.”

75, four endowed faculty chairs in Catholic studies, human dignity and Catholic philosophy, national recognition of the law success program, and the maintenance of affordability.

For the school of science, engineering and technology, $10 million were raised from this campaign for facilities and equipment. The campaign also raised $20 million in scholarships for the Greehey School of Business. Overall, St. Mary’s accumulated $51.5 million in scholarship aid from the Defining Moment campaign for undergraduate, graduate, and law students.

The campaign will not only be a defining moment for St. Mary’s as a whole, but as well as its financial standing in the future.

“We have not announced yet whether there will be salary increases or not, but the campaign itself is not focused principally on a single year,” Mengler said.

“It’s really in large part to secure a financial future going forward as well as provide resources going forward to strengthen the academic programs.”

The board voted to raise the fundraising goal to $150 million with two years remaining in the campaign.

“With two years remaining in this campaign, keep firming your hearts and minds that with all of us working together and friends who aren’t here tonight, we can achieve the transformation of St. Mary’s university,” Mengler said.

NEWS 3

NOV 20. 2019 | STMURATTLERNEWS.COM

Committee considers changing St. Mary’s core curriculum LARRY RODRIGUEZ-SHEA STAFF WRITER

St. Mary’s core curriculum is currently undergoing revisions that are yet to be announced.Although the proposed changes are not official, early versions of the proposed changes include removing ethics, others, and civic engagement.

The process has been ongoing for some time with consulting coming from leadership throughout the university.

The Core Curriculum Review Committee says the decision was motivated for several key reasons. One of those reasons being the need to adopt a common core across all the schools on campus.

discussed in the academic council to their faculty and then it will go to a vote.”

The changes would not affect current students, rather incoming first-year students. Tentatively these changes would go into effect for the class of 2024.

The proposal has generated a response from both students and faculty. The Student Government Association held a sit-in outside of the provost’s office on Nov. 14.

Some of the students present advocated for the inclusion of the student body’s voice in said decisions. The committee did consult

with some student groups in the past year through the dean’s office but did not carry that into this semester.

Several students also raised concerns about unexpected rising tuition, the allocation of their current tuition, and what ramifications this change has to the value of a St. Mary’s degree.

Students were able to engage in a dialogue at the sit-in with the provost and vice president for academic affairs, Dr. Aaron Tyler. SGA president and senior international and global studies major,

Aimeé Treviño, believes that the proposed changes go against the university’s mission and raised those concerns to Tyler.

“I believe the core curriculum changes proposed by the academic committee completely undermine our mission statement,” Treviño said. “The academic committee’s proposal strips St. Mary’s of everything that makes it so unique.

I am asking for transparency from our administration. In consideration for not only students and faculty, but also the St. Mary’s community and Marianist spirit.”

“

The academic committee’s proposal strips St. Mary’s of everything that makes it so unique.”

Aimeé Treviño senior international and global studies major

Another reason was the desire to make the core easier to understand for incoming students and guidance counselors. The committee wants to make it easier for students to graduate on time and to take the SMC curriculum in the intended order.

Although the university is awaiting further discussion from the committee, vice provost for academic affairs Dr. William Buhrman, listed these as the motivations for a core curriculum change.

“The Core Curriculum Review Committee has put together a series of recommendations,” Buhrman said. “It was decided that taking into consideration these recommendations we should move forward with a proposal. The deans are now responsible for taking the proposal

Dean of Students, Timothy Bessler, pays visit to students participating in the sit-in held by SGA outside of the povost’s office. | Photo by Larry Rodriguez-Shea

TEDx speaker stresses inclusivity of women in ministry SAMANTHA RUVALCABA NEWS EDITOR

TEDx San Antonio held its main event of the year at the Charline McCombs Empire Theatre earlier this month. Among the distinguished list of speakers brought together to spread ideas to the San Antonio community was CEO of Bread of Life Empowerment, author, and Minister Kierra Alderman.

Public speaking is nothing new to Alderman considering she has been ministering in the Baptist community for five years. However, it was her first time presenting to an audience rather than being more interactional.

“It was a new experience for me because it was my first time memorizing and really concentrating on the script versus operating by spirit. It was definitely different, but I really enjoyed it,” said Alderman.

Her topic, women in the ministry, is one that she has been working on for quite a while and has even written a book

on. More specifically, the oppression and suppression of women reaching for religious leadership positions. TEDx doesn’t usually introduce topics regarding religion, but this is an issue that not only Alderman herself has encountered when working towards ministry leadership, but many other women

“

We were doing a rehearsal one night and a young lady came up to me and said those words’it happened to me too’...”

Kierra Alderman minister

as well.

“We were doing a rehearsal one night and a young lady came up to me and said those words ‘it happened to me too, I was trying to apply as a priest’ and she just talked about the ridicule she went through,” Alderman said.

“I think leading up to [the event] TED saw how much the conversation

was needed.”

Alderman’s speech went over her research about the oppression of women in religious leadership positions. In her experience, Alderman was deterred of even attempting to minister at her church after her pastor’s passing. After further research, she realized it was not simply an issue in the Christian community, but one across several religions.

“We forget that at those times, women weren’t allowed in synagogues, it was against the law for women to teach, it was against the law for women to preach, those were laws at those times,” Alderman said.

Following her TEDx talk, Alderman has received both positive and negative feedback. However, the women coming to her and saying they have experienced similar exclusion and adversity in their pursuits for religious leadership positions have reaffirmed Alderman’s efforts to bring awareness to this issue.

“For just hearing that once, I would take 100 people telling me ‘no’,” Alderman said.

Her speech also went over the

ramifications of gender exclusion in the ministry such as women being mistreated by the opposite sex or women disregarding their own self-worth. Alderman argued that these ramifications can impact the gender gaps outside of religion as well.

“A lot of the things that women can bring to the platform to be able to heal other women through, they don’t get that voice or that opportunity to do those things,” Alderman said.

This year, Alderman founded an organization called BOL Empowerment that focuses on empowering and edifying the voices of women in the ministry background.

This organization, in addition to the TEDx talk, have been just a few of the platforms Alderman has utilized to bring this issue to the frontlines. She plans on continuing this conversation and encourages others to do the same.

“The church is supposed to be a representation of the community,” Alderman said. “If it’s not representing everyone in the community, it’s failing,”

Graphic by Natalia Zuniga

4 PHOTO ESSAY

STUDENTS SIT-IN

Student concerns about changes to SMC classes are heard at SGA event LOUIE DIAZ COPY EDITOR

With the impending changes to the St. Mary’s core curriculum, the Student Government Association hosted a

sit-in on Nov. 14 to let the student’s voices be heard and to better understand the reasons for the curriculum change.

The sit-in lasted from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. outside the provost’s office in St. Louis hall. Prior to the sit-in, students could send questions regarding the changes to the core curriculum to

L-R: Brandy Loving, senior English major and Mia Stahl, junior psychology major participating in the sit-in. | Photo by Louie Diaz

SGA president, and senior international and global studies major Aimeé Treviño. Student’s periodically drifted in and out of the building in support of the sit-in. Some discussed their grievances with administrators that attended the event.

Students, administrators, and professors attended the sit-in. | Photo by Louie Diaz

Treviño and Dr. Aaron Tyler go over questions students had about the changes to the SMC. | Photo by Louie Diaz

Dean of students, Tim Bessler, attended the sit-in and answered questions students had about the curriculum. | Photo by Louie Diaz

Stahl expresses her concerns to Bessler. | Photo by Louie Diaz

NOV. 20, 2019 | STMURATTLERNEWS.COM

PHOTO ESSAY

5

Vice Provost for Academic Affairs, William Buhrman conversing with Meza at the sitin. | Photo by Louie Diaz

L-R: Gabriela Rivera junior psychology major, Luis Meza sophomore chemistry major, and Alexis Garcia sophomore English major participate in the sit-in. | Photo by Louie Diaz

Students discuss with one another and with administrators. | Photo by Louie Diaz

Philosophy professor, Dr. Eric Chelstrom, held class at St. Louis. | Photo by Louie Diaz

TreviĂąo carries a list of questions she received from students about the SMC core changes.| Photo by Louie Diaz

Loving and Bessler discuss some concerns she had. | Photo by Louie Diaz

Students listen to Dean Bessler speak on SMC concerns. | Photo by Louie Diaz

6 OPINION

EDITOR: VICTORIA SALDANA | @STMURATTLERNEWS | NOV. 20, 2019

Amazon’s warehouses are not sustainable places for college students to work Victoria

Saldana OPINION EDITOR

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The benefits of working at Amazon may appear to be desirable for college students, but once past these advertisements, one discovers the company is an unsustainable workplace for a long period of time.

College students make up many of the people who experience the brute unfairness of American work culture. Students are especially vulnerable to being taken advantage of because they require time off for school, but still need to maintain a consistent number of hours in order to pay for schooling. This leads to students taking opportunities that advertise high pay and flexible hours, but may have less than ideal working conditions. Companies like Amazon claim benefits like this but after a few months of working the realities of the companies true conditions come to light. Amazon warehouses are disagreeable places to work for not only students but also others in the workforce.

As tuition rates rise having a part time job or working 20 hours a week is typically the minimum to afford living wages and tuition. According to a study from Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce, 70% of students must find at least part-time work, and 25% work full time while going to school full time.

In recent news Amazon’s work environment has taken on more visibility, especially as the company raised their minimum wage to $15. Jobs like this are ideal for college students to get in the max hours on the least amount of days with as much pay as possible. That is why it is imperative big corporations like this are kept under a careful eye, so they do not only take advantage of vulnerable students, but the workforce at large.

The company provides free tours of the facility, including the one in San Marcos, only 45 minutes away.

After taking one of these tours the experience of the workers is very similar to call center work.

Although most of the packaging and shipping process relies heavily on machines, the role of the human is still integral to the function of the warehouse.

An obvious characteristic of the job is the repetitive n a t u r e of the work environment. Most Amazon workers are doing the same action over and over again, and the human part of the workforce in many ways becomes one of the machines. These workers stay within their work space, about a 5ft. by 5ft. area and put items in correctly sorted bins or apply proper labeling to the packaged box.

They repeat these actions their whole 10hour shift and the tour guide emphasized they are encouraged to take a 30 second to a minute breaks every hour to stretch, drink water, and take a deep breath.

This type of work may not sound grueling, and at first it isn’t, but the lack of human interaction and the repetition of the job quickly becomes frustrating. In addition, the human body is not a machine and these movements can cause back and knee problem where stress from repetitive actions are most prominent. In this way, the work at Amazon becomes much like a call center minus the ability to talk with other people.

The workhouse is so loud it would make it impossible to talk with the person at the workspace adjacent.

So, workers clock in, and get to work the first five-hour portion before a 30-minute lunch break, and then goes back to do it for another five hours. Although the tour guide was quick to tell the group there were no repercussions for not working fast enough or taking more breaks within the hour he did concede the performance of workers is tracked. This is also similar to the call center work environment where the time one spends on the phone is tracked, and if these time falls below standard percentage

there can be repercussions. It is hard to imagine that if an individual who has been working there for a while slows down due to exhaustion and overwork there would not be repercussion when Amazon is trying to reach a quota.

Jobs like this are some of the most highly paid, and they have an even higher turnover rate because of the monotonous and repetitive work involved. According to a study by the Quality Assurance and Training Connection, call center turnover rates are between 30-40%, and although there are no definitive statistics for Amazon’s turnover rate their rise in pay could be in indication that the company is trying to incentivize workers to stay, and make it harder to leave when one is making that kind of pay.

Overall the Amazon working environment is not the worst, especially in comparison to working conditions in other countries and even in the U.S. The company states “people who succeed at Amazon have something in common- they are customer centric, they are leaders, and they are innovators,” despite that they do not make an environment for much innovation.

They also do not seem to implement much of a change from other factory line work except with the incorporation of smarter machines. Amazon becomes an unsustainable place to work for many people not only because of the repetitive movements, but the monotony of the work can only be withstood for so long.

In the battle for ownership, is Taylor Swift a victim of Big Machine Label ? that brings in a lot of money and fan base. Braun bought Big Machine Saldana Records and Swift had no voice in this action, but experiences all the effects OPINION EDITOR that come with it. Borchetta and On Friday, Nov. 16, Taylor Swift Braun are unethical in their treatment posted across her social media Scott of Swift.

Similarly, in 2016 a feud involving Borchetta, and Scooter Braun—the men who own the master recordings Kanye West and his wife Kim of Swift’s albums—would not allow Kardashian led many to see Swift as Swift to perform any music before the a “snake.” When West released his Lover album at the American Music song “Famous” it included a line with Awards or in her Netflix documentary. profanities claiming that West had This in addition to other situations, made Swift famous. The song created especially within the last few years, tensions between Swift and her team that have made Swift a victim not only and West. Kardashian then provided to Borchetta, and Braun, but to larger recorded evidence of Swift confirming society as she has consistently been permission to use this line. Kanye deemed this appropriate to say because depicted negatively in media.

Although there is a difference in of 2009 MTV Music Video Awards authorship and ownership, an artist incident which he claims made Swift’s career because he created sympathy must sign the ownership for her. of their art to a These are examples company they can of a man trying to trust. Swift did take credit or gain not get this success by some opp or tunity. part of a successful She signed woman’s career. a contract In Swift’s newest with Big album her song Machine “The Man” talks Records, w h i c h about the double for all standard held audiences against women k n o w , in comparison to has let her men. perform her “They wouldn’t work as she shake their heads and sees fit. This is question how much of ethically the right this I deserve” Swift says decision because almost directly to people like although Swift does West, Borchetta, and Braun not technically own Graphic by Victoria Saldana who question and take ahold the rights, she is the of her obvious success for their creator of the product own gain.

Victoria

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Victoria

Valle

WEB EDITOR

Taylor Swift is a pop powerhouse whose platform consists primarily of white feminism and shameless self-victimization.

Founded in August of 2005, Big Machine Label Group LLC, formerly Big Machine Records LLC, produced six of seven of Swift’s albums.

Swift has worked with the company for almost as long as it has existed—since she released her 2006 self-titled debut album.

When Scooter Braun bought out Big Machine from Scott Borchetta, Swift’s albums—which

N O C

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Swift has had 10 years to acquire the rights to her music, which if she wanted so badly she should have never sold in the first place. Her huge fan-base gives her power she has used, to some extent, irresponsibly and to no effect.

Victoria Valle junior English major

she has never owned—were signed over to Braun. Swift wrote in a blog post on Tumblr about her experience with trying to buy back her albums; notably, she talked about the unfair deal she was offered in which she would get an album back for every new album she wrote. Keep in mind this buy out only happened this year, yet it seems to have consumed headline space everywhere.

Swift has had 10 years to acquire the rights to her music, which if she wanted so badly she should have never sold in the first place. Her huge fan-base gives her power she has used, to some extent, irresponsibly and to no effect. Instead of using her enormous platform to raise awareness for pressing global issues she uses them to fuel feuds and create friction in the public celebrity-sphere for clout. Other celebrities are aware of their effect on media coverage and what is trending. Swifts motivations are highly self-serving, she promotes a brand of white feminism that supports only the issues concerning white, cis, middle-class women.

Taylor Swift is not a victim of Big Machine; she is a cog in the system that churns out big time distractions, including Kanye West, Katy Perry, and Kim Kardashian.

OPINION 7

NOV. 20, 2019 | STMURATTLERNEWS.COM

Student athletes everywhere should receive compensation for competitions Larry

Rodriguez-Shea STAFF WRITER

One of the most controversial topics in today’s public discourse is the question: should college athletes be paid?

“

California passed its Fair Play to Pay Act which virtually told the NCAA to either change the rules or the law would do it for them by January 2021.”

Larry Rodriguez-Shea freshman English major

Of course, there are many perspectives on this issue ranging from a simple yes or no to others going as far to say that modern college athletics is modern-day serfdom. With an issue that seems so simple, there is a surprising amount of nuance. Despite all of the nuance, the facts show that athletes should be paid or at the very least be able to use their own image to receive compensation.

In the world of boosters, complicated NCAA rules, and ethical dilemmas this issue is surprisingly complex. Take Ohio State football star, Chase Young, who was recently suspended for taking a loan from a family friend to fly his girlfriend to the 2019 Rose Bowl

EDITORIAL STAFF Editor-in-Chief Samantha Salazar Managing Editor Isabela Vazquez Copy Editor Louie Diaz Layout and Design Natalia Zuñiga Advertising Manager Demi Bestor Photo Editor Cody Rivera Web Editor Victoria Valle News Editor Samantha Ruvalcaba Lifestyle Editor Sabrina Evans Opinion Editor Victoria Saldana Entertainment Editor Jacob Henson Sports Editor Tawny Davis Faculty Adviser Camille Langston, Ph.D.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR POLICY The Rattler welcomes letters to the editor.

Letters should not exceed 500 words and must include writer’s name, classification, major and telephone number. Editors reserve the right to edit submissions for length, grammar, spelling and content. For more information, call the newsroom at (210) 436-3401 or email rattlernews@gmail.com.

game. This might even lead to him missing the rest of the season as reported

by CBS Sports. This isn’t limited to just football either.

The Memphis Tigers are currently battling the NCAA for basketball star James Wi s e m an’s eligibility to play basketball this season.

USA Today reported this stems from controversy with head coach, Penny Hardaway, allegedly giving thousands of dollars to Wiseman’s mother to help with moving expenses.

The drama surrounding this case has led to some accusing the NCAA of racism and nepotism among other things. Both cases are examples of just how outdated and flawed the NCAA’s rules regarding athlete’s compensation are in the modern world.

One thing is certain: there is blatant recruitment by boosters and under the table payments occurring by some of the top schools in both basketball and

football rarely getting NCAA reaction. money using their image. Whether It is only when small schools do it, that that be through endorsements or, for it becomes an issue. The punishments example, appearing in a YouTube video the NCAA doles out can be devastating that includes sports tips, all athletes to programs resulting in playoff bannings, stripping of scholarships, would be able to profit from this.

Some would say athletes are and other consequences that all but end a program’s chance at success compensated enough with their for years. education, but as covered in California passed its Fair Play various news reports some to Pay Act which virtually told of these athletes are never the NCAA to either change in class or are in the rules or the law would do it for them by January “general studies.”

2021. Since then Some students the NCAA has take classes where voted in favor the professor is of allowing instructed to go athletes to be compensated easy on them by for their the university. This likeness and isn’t true of every through other university, but it means. This law in still happens. its current form is When looking at the surprisingly fair and highlights some of the reality of the world reason’s athletes should today, student-athletes be paid. should be able to The world is changing, receive compensation athletes should be able to at the for competing.

In the very least make a profit off their likeness. The law wouldn’t force modern world, it just universities to pay students— doesn’t make sense for something that would be unfair athletes to not be since some schools simply allowed to at the have more money than very least profit others—but what it does Graphic by Victoria Saldana allow is for students to earn off of their likeness.

Saying “I’m not like other girls” supports the patriarchy Victoria

Saldana

OPINION EDITOR

The “I’m not like other girls” narrative has long been internalized by women and young girls. The saying perpetuates there are two types of women and to be an “other” girl is somehow superior to their counterpart.

It is just another branch of internalized misogyny women have to battle through in order to understand not only themselves and where they fit in the world, but how they fit in with women who are similar or different from them.

It separates women by made up boundaries, created by men’s perceptions of women’s and the stereotypes which come from this. Typically, the “other” girl is quirky or dark and her counterpart is preppy and bright. This group of girls is typically shallow and naive whereas the “other” girl is not. Young girls are e s p e c i a l l y susceptible to this narrative because of the othering and loneliness that comes Graphic by Natalia Zuñiga with being an adolescent, it is easier to see oneself as being superior by being different rather than accepting that

everyone’s differences are okay.

Although the #likeagirl campaign, created in 2014 by the Always company, began publicizing the changing perception of women in media. It showcased young girls and boys not taking the generalization of “like a girl” to heart but recognizing the negative

connotations of the saying are supposed to be shameful. Although young girls today are generally more empowered than previous generations the perpetuation of stereotypes like the “other” girls will

only continue patriarchal views and institutionalized misogyny. Just as it has taken centuries to create these views it could take centuries to tear them down.

So, it is imperative to start now.

This whole situation stems from gender stereotypes and misogyny. The need to put individuals into boxes which conform to certain groups is not just a female problem, but it does affect them most deeply as these boxes are debilitating. They tell women they cannot

do this or that because they are women.

It is a tactic used to keep women down and in a lower status in society. Young girls especially should be taught the exact opposite of this tactic so that they do not internalize centuries of institutional oppression.

“You’re not like other girls” is a compliment often given to women by men, and it shares similarity with “you’re one of the guys”, therefore insinuating that feminine attributes are lesser than masculine attributes. This compliment isn’t necessarily bad, but it confuses a personal feeling and perpetuates that feminine attributes are bad. Typically, this compliment is intended to mean that the person giving the compliment feels a connection with the complimented, they understand one another and are on the same level, but rat her than say t h i s they move to a cliché which unintentionally puts other women down. With more careful word choice and explaining how one feels with more decisive words and sincerity one can not only strengthen these relationships but begin to chip away at stereotypes.

In all, the narrative is damaging to a society which should be focused on creating a more empowering narrative for womens’ success and the celebration of differences.

10 LIFESTYLE

EDITOR: SABRINA EVANS | @STMURATTLERNEWS | NOV. 20, 2019

Mental Moments: Find healing through movement and meditation with yoga IVAN BRIONES STAFF WRITER

When imagining yoga, one might come up with a scene of poses, mats, and sometimes a room full of women sitting in Sukhasana—the crossed legs pose—exhaling a unison, ritualistic “ommmm.” Though this is not entirely inaccurate to what yoga can be, yoga’s true power of healing and the ability to strengthen one’s body and spirit is often forgotten. Yoga therapy is beginning to change that notion.

According to yogatherapy.health, a website run by the International Association of Yoga Therapists, “yoga therapy is the specific application of yogic tools— postures/exercises, breathwork, meditation techniques, and more—to address an individual’s physical, mental, and emotional needs.” It is a practice that allows yoga to be used as a tool for the betterment of one’s health and well-being. Yoga therapy utilizes the natural capacity of the body and mind to strengthen different aspects of the individual. How yoga therapy differs from a regular public yoga session is the emphasis on tailoring to the individual’s need. This is done by focusing on four major points: movement ranging from gentle to vigorous, breathing techniques, meditation or visualization practices, and physical postures that address specific areas of discomfort or musculoskeletal imbalances. A combination of these techniques can be used to develop

a program that is best suited for every individual’s needs.

Of course, yoga therapists do not consider this to be a “cure-all” to any chronic illness, disorder, or disease, but it certainly directs individuals into a direction of healing.

There is certainly a plethora of research currently b e i n g conducted on the potential benefits of yoga therapy.

In a study conducted by Susan J. Bartlett, associate professor of medicine at McGill University in Montreal, yoga therapy is described to have many benefits. “Yoga in Rheumatic Diseases,” it states, “[Yoga therapy’s]

holistic approach to exercise with an emphasis on mindfulness and stress reduction may also offer additional opportunities to enhance psychological well-being, reduce pain and enhance function and participation, as part of a comprehensive d i s e a s e management a p p r o a c h .”

Many have c o m e forward a n d shared

Isabel Gilenwater, sophomore business major, finds inner peace through yoga.| Photo by Sabrina Evans

testimonials on the power of yoga therapy in both physical and mental aspects. Yoga has shown to be helpful in areas of chronic illness like arthritis, cardiovascular health, diabetes, immune function, musculoskeletal issues, pediatrics, prenatal health, respiratory health, and of course, stress, and anxiety.

Yoga therapy can also help those who want to change habits of addiction or unhealthy behaviors. Many have sought yoga to improve their mood and ability to concentrate and get better sleep. Millions of people, including celebrities, swear by the power of yoga as a way of coping with the tumultuous and fast-pasted world around them. The reality is yoga therapy is an incredible tool and is surprisingly accessible. It utilizes a vast array of tools and techniques tailored to an individual and does not have to be strictly physically nor mentally intensive in nature. Yoga therapists are highly trained, and the profession is growing rapidly. Yoga therapy is something any individual, especially the college student, can benefit from. It can be sought as a way of dealing with the issues and stress of everyday life and has something for everyone.

The benefi ts of Strengthsquest on a strengths-based campus SABRINA EVANS LIFESTYLE EDITOR

Strengthsquest is a valuable, online assessment tool for students that help them develop strengths by building on what they do best. The assessment expands on the way students naturally think and behave as an individual by developing their skills and talents.

Strengthsquest is scientifically based which makes it stand out amongst other personality assessment tests and gives specific results based off 34 different strengths tailored to participants.

Strengthsquest is rooted in the positive psychology movement which believes in building on what people are good at rather than dwelling on weaknesses.

St. Mary’s is a strengths-based campus so on campus, there are 2266 Strengthsquest records for individuals and 1833 in the dedicated portal. This means over half the population on campus are familiar with Strengthsquest.

For workshops specifically tailored to those who have taken the Strengthsquest assessments, organizations can sign up and be mentored on how to utilize these gifts and talents of each individual within the group to create an intergroup success. Colton Johnson, assistant director of student life, Christine Sommerset, assistant director of student life, and Dr. Sheri King, director of student life have all been trained to host these workshops.

There are many advantages to the campus being a strengths-based campus including the fact that Strengthsquest is owned by Galloped Co. and utilizes a similar tool called

“Strengthsfinder” which is interchangeable with Strengthsquest. The notable difference is Strengthsfinder is used primarily by corporate America to assist those in the workplace with discovering their talents and skills and how to properly use them

in a work setting. This means students can familiarize themselves with this tool now, in order to prepare themselves to be successful in a work setting. This allows students to understand how their natural skills can benefit them in their future career.

Graphic by Victoria Valle

The process currently works on campus during Zaragoza, a session called “Name It” is hosted which is a strengths based workshop teaching students what to do with their strengths, the next session up is called “Claim It.” “Aim It” is the third in the series which helps students use their gifts and talents to move forward in life. Some academic departments have also taken the initiative to use this assessment within the classroom such as all academic development classes, the sociology department, the psychology department, and the political science department.

King speaks about the benefits of Strengthsquest and explains Strengthsquest should be used more widely amongst students. The test highlights 34 different strengths that helps others understand more thoroughly who other people are based on the titles of their strengths such as includer, input, achiever, etc.

By understanding the strengths of others, it is easier to understand their communication styles. Strengthsquest also is a great conversation starter and can help to better understand who someone is.

“Strengthsquest tells people who you are,” King said.

This can be put on one’s resumé, as an email signature, and can open the door for a good conversation that one can grow from and create opportunities for themselves. There are many opportunities Strengthsquest can offer those students who are interested. For more information, students can reach out to the student life office directly.

LIFESTYLE 11

NOV. 20, 2019 | STMURATTLERNEWS.COM

TREND WATCH: Utilize secondhand clothing in the fall COURTNEY PEÑA STAFF WRITER

Purchasing gently used, secondhand apparel has become an increasingly popular way to obtain attire over the years. Secondhand clothing refers to used items of apparel that are resold usually at a discounted rate in places like thrift shops.

Normally, secondhand garments end up in piles at garage sales, but due to an increase in popularity, thrift shops are seeing more and more customers.

Plato’s Closet is an affordable secondhand clothing store for college students or anyone seeking a great value for their hard-earned money. Plato’s Closet sells previously owned clothing from known brands such as Adidas, American Eagle, Levi’s and more. This successful f r a n c h i s e specifically targets their m a r k e t m a i n l y towards teens and young adults. One of the advantages Plato’s Closet offers is shoppers can sell their own clothes to them by bringing in their gently used apparel and accessories in exchange for cash.

Buffalo Exchange is another great place

where people can buy, sell, or trade their used clothing. Buffalo Exchange offers a more eclectic place to shop for those who are looking for more quirky wardrobe pieces. The location in San Antonio is an outlet branch of Buffalo Exchange so items of clothing are even cheaper than regular stores. But they do not accept returns or buy clothing items from patrons. It still is a great place to find new items of clothing to keep styles fresh.

“Personally, I love shopping at the Buffalo Exchange Outlet because I really never know what I’m going to find there, plus there is always a great selection of shoes. They have a lot of options for women, and you can definitely find things you can repurpose,” said Kimberly Salazar, senior psychology major.

Goodwill sells donated clothes which are new and gently used as well. Their merchandise is sold at an exceptionally affordable price. Goodwill stays fresh with newly stocked clothing every week. They have styles for any Graphic by Sabrina Evans occasion, such as a professional business interview, a wedding, a sporting

Buffalo Exchange is one of the places to find secondhand clothing.| Photo by Samantha Salazar

event, or a night on the town. Though Goodwill can have high end name brands, if someone wants specifically well-known designer brands, The Real Real is the place to shop.

The Real Real is an online secondhand clothing store known for their luxury items. Since the previously owned apparel from the Real Real is more high-end chic and elegant, this store is for people that are willing to spend more on their clothes than a traditional used clothing store. These elegant gently used garments are typically from brands such as Gucci, Prada, Louis Vuitton, and more.

One advantage of buying secondhand

clothing includes spending less money than if the clothes were purchased at a department store. Many people prefer gently used apparel because it costs less than retail, offers unique apparel options, makes luxury brands more affordable, and has turned shopping into a treasure hunt.

Tips for shopping previously owned attire include: search carefully since the best items can be hidden in stores and online, arrive early for the best options, and be ready to try different styles and colors of fabulous finds.

This growing fashion trend is definitely a designer deal. Now, go shopping for the best clothes at the best prices.

Enjoy food from a local spot owned by a St. Mary’s Alumnus: W. D. Deli

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ia

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story h ou s e from the 1920s.

This reminds many customers of places people might find in Portland, Austin and San Francisco. They specialize in homemade soups,

ph ra

W.D. Deli was founded and is run by Wayne D. Beers and his partner Mike Bobo.

Beers is an alumnus of St. Mary’s from the class of 1984, whose made it big as a restaurant entrepreneur.

Beers was born in New York, grew up in New Jersey and Tulsa, Oklahoma, and on the suggestion of his high school headmaster, came to St. Mary’s in 1980. He graduated with bachelor’s degree in biology.

Bobo, for his part of the story, was born in Hope, Arkansas, graduated from the liberal arts, Hendrix College, in Conway, Arkansas, in 1979 with a degree in English and teaching certification.

At Hendrix College, he was forced to grow, make friends with strangers and learned to understand the benefits of making good choices as well as bad ones.

Beers was accepted into the UT Health Science Dental School here in San Antonio and hated it. So, he left dental school and

spent a year working at Cappy’s Restaurant and later at La Fonda restaurant on Main and, in 1990, he decided to open his on small business, now known as W.D. Deli.

With very little money and lots of hard work, Beers started at the Olmos Park Circle on McCullough Street and business just took off from there.

W.D. Deli is a café and catering business in San Antonio, Texas. Since 1990, their goal has been to serve their community or family with great, fresh, and generous portions of food at reasonable prices. To say the food is good is an understatement.

W. D. Deli is a funky, old two-

G

SAMUEL VEGA STAFF WRITER

W. D. Deli is located on 3123 Broadway and provides delicious meals to all.| Photo by Samuel Vega

salads, sandwiches and delicious desserts—

students and entrepreneurs.

all made from scratch daily. No added or

Expansion is unlikely at W.D. Deli

artificial ingredients or preservatives. Their

location; but catering, which makes up

spinach chicken salad, chicken tortilla soup,

about 20% of their business, is an area that

and Wayne’s Excellent Hoagie are some the

they want to grow to 30 or 35%. Plus, on the

best items they offer.

bright side they like the small side of things

Their unofficial motto is “many enter as strangers and leave as friends.”

like a deli.

W.D. Deli is located on 3123 Broadway

The reason why Beers and Bobo

in San Antonio between Mulberry and

chose a deli instead of any other type of

Hildebrand; close to the zoo. They are

establishment is their “love for lunch.” Their

open Monday through Saturday, 10:30 a.m.

favorite part is the people they work with

until 4:00 p.m.

and those they serve; because to them, the

They may not have a student discount,

people and staff are family. They serve great

but they are thinking of adding one and

models for younger generations of college

besides the place is worth a little extra.

12 ENTERTAINMENT

EDITOR: JACOB HENSON | @STMURATTLERNEWS | NOV. 20, 2019

The five best places to grab hot chocolate in San Antonio ELIZABETH PEREZ CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Temperatures are dropping and San Antonio citizens are searching for ways to stay warm. One of the best ways to stay warm is with a steaming cup of hot chocolate. San Antonio has some perfect spots for unique cups of hot chocolate, so look no further than these five cafés for a great cup of cocoa.

1. La Panaderia, Mexican Hot Chocolate.

With two convenient locations in San Antonio’s downtown area and the Alamo Heights area it’s easy to get your hands on a cup of this unique hot chocolate. Cinnamon is the highlight of this drink leaving a spicy twist on a classic beverage. It pairs perfectly with the rest of La Panaderia’s menu, so stop by one of their locations for grab-

and-go fresh pan dulce and a cozy cup of hot chocolate; 301 E. Houston St. and 8305 Broadway St. 2. Indy Coffee Club, Hot Chocolate.

Steamed milk and cocoa combine in this classic take on a cup of hot chocolate.

Located near the University of San Antonio’s main campus, this club is a popular spot for college students to hang out and get a comforting cup of classic cocoa; 7114 UTSA Blvd., Suite 10.

3. Halycon Southtown, Peanut Butter.

Hot Chocolate. One of the most unique cups of hot cocoa available in San Antonio is Halycon Southtown’s peanut butter hot chocolate. A subtle hint of peanut butter blends with chocolate in this warm melting pot of sweetness; 1414 S. Alamo St. 4. Sweet Paris Creperie & Café, Nutella

“

of their delicious crepes. They pair perfectly with a cup of hot chocolate; 15900 La Cantera Pkwy Suite 19160.

5. Mi Tierra Café, Mexica n Hot Chocolate. Traditional Mexican hot chocolate can be found at the festive and touristy Mi Tierra Café. Decorated with papel picado on the inside, Anissa Perales, senior political science major, recommends this joint’s cup of hot cocoa to her fellow students; 218 Produce Row. “I really enjoy the hot chocolate from Mi Tierra Café downtown!” says Perales, “It is the perfect drink for this cold weather we’re having, and definitely for the holidays! I enjoy it with the pan dulce bread they also serve at the café.” If it’s too chilly to leave home then make sure to try the simple DIY recipe, perfect for dorm convenience.

I really enjoy the hot chocolate from Mi Tierra Café downtown!

It’s the perfect drink for this cold weather we’re having, and definitely for the holiday! I enjoy it with the pan dulce bread they also serve at the cafe.”

Anissa Perales senior political science major Hot Chocolate. Located near the Shops at La Cantera this classy café is home to one of the most intense cups of hot chocolate in San Antonio. Like a cup of liquid Nutella, this steamy beverage is perfect for sweet tooth lovers who love a little hazelnut with their chocolate. Plus, don’t forget to try one

Graphic by Jacob A. Henson

Recent movie “Harriet” offers an interesting history lesson JORDAN KUPCZYNSKI STAFF WRITER

One of the most recent movies drawing a lot of attention is “Harriet,” a story of the abolitionist political activist, Harriet Tubman. No movie can really follow history perfectly and there is without a doubt some parts that had to be altered for a better audience response. On the contrary, this movie does a relatively well job of following the life of one of America’s most famous female abolitionist.

“Harriet,” starring Cynthia Erivo as the leading star, and other popular actors such as Vondie Curtis-Hall and Janelle Monáe, officially hit screens on Nov. 1.

Escaping from slavery, Tubman frees her family and friends. Journeying back and forth through Pennsylvania and Philadelphia, her heartbreak, anxiety, and fear are thoroughly captured as she leads hundreds of slaves to freedom on the Underground Railroad network.

Some parts of the movie may leave audiences feeling a little less than satisfied, like some overreactions from certain characters or confusing responses from others, but overall it is an attentiongrabbing piece. This film invokes a number of emotions—from humor to empathy and

heartbreak, all in the span of a few minutes.

The piece follows the journey of Tubman as well as it can on the screen, and while Hollywood tended to exaggerate some scenes, the movie still tells an important piece of United States’ history. Feeling a mixture of emotions, imagining the scenes as actual events that affected so many lives in the past, the movie may even leave some viewers wanting to know more about Tubman and that time period in general.

Aaron Gahagan, senior exercise and sports and science major, came along to the movies late one Friday night. While he was reluctant to see the motion picture at first, he walked out with an approving nod and empty soda cup.

“History can be pretty boring, and while this isn’t the usual kind of movie I’d see, it wasn’t bad,” Gahagan said. “It was far more interesting seeing the story of Tubman play out on screen then hearing any professor or high school teacher drone on about.”

This movie has an approval rating of 72% on the rating site, ‘Rotten Tomatoes,’ and a 6.5 out of 10 on IMDB. So far, it’s raised almost $24 million dollars in box offices around the world and is one of the most interesting and entertaining history lessons, surprisingly with a majority of the scenes matching up to history, according to a factcheck article from USA Today. Overall, the movie receives 3.5 Rattlers from this critic, the ticket was far from a waste of money, and was well worth the two-hour runtime.

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Sophomore communications major Jordan Kupcynski reviews “Harriet,” the story of United States’ most famous abolitionist who dared freedom for each slave.| Photo courtesy of Jordan Kupcynski

ENTERTAINMENT 13

NOV. 20, 2019 | STMURATTLERNEWS.COM

TEDx San Antonio: John Myers explores rhythms of the brain JACOB A. HENSON ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

On Nov. 9 the Charline McCombs Empire Theatre in downtown San Antonio hosted the 2019 TEDx conference series where nine speakers gathered to present their ideas on various topics. Of the 10, John Myers, a postdoctoral researcher at the Baylor College of Medicine, talked to audiences on his topic, ‘The Rhythms of the Brain.’ In less than 10 minutes, Myers effectively showcased human brain waves

of the vibrational forces the brain interprets.

Myers believes music to be a helpful metaphor for various functions of the brain.

“I use music as an analogy to help demonstrate the power of brain waves to affect our thoughts and emotions…how brain waves synchronize with the sights an d sounds of our environment…[and] how brain waves sync up when people make eye contact…[Additionally] everyone’s voice is like a song that affects the mood of people we’re interacting with,” Myers said. “We can leave scars or heal wounds with our words.

Graphic by Jacob A. Henson

synchronize when sounds are heard, even with simples sounds like waves crashing on sandy beaches or Frédéric Chopin’s classical piece: “Nocturne Op. 9, No. 9.” As such, sound—especially music is powerful because

So be nice.”

In a personal story, Myers shared that his father had a stroke after a terrible car accident. As a result, his father lost memories, his ability to speak, and even his

knowledge of how many children he had. To help regain his memory, Myers would play the music his father would play to his kids when they were younger—a kind of funk and soul. In turn, his father would light up in awe, and little by little, the music was helping combat his mental deficits.

A second example highlighted Myers’ friend’s son who struggled with hyperarousal. The young boy had difficulty with other children. In a similar way, the young boy’s occupational therapist played him two contrasting sounds, one in each ear, which together sound like a long, deep wobbling soundwave. As a result, the two different sounds help calm his mental state.

Myers’ final example discussed the powerful connection between parents and infants when eye contact is made, or when a child falls and scrapes their knee and a simple kiss and touch to their wound heals them in an emotional sense. As cliché as it may sound, the truth is science proves the brain waves’ synchronization fosters connection and love. Furthermore, Myers concludes the connection between all humans are through biological rhythms, whether that be sound, sight, or touch.

A personal favorite is how melodic sounds in music can especially reflect personalities. In a 2016 CNN article, “Quiz: What does your favorite music say about you?” John Bonifield writes a person’s taste

in music says a lot about their personality.

More specifically, the theory goes that there are two types of personalities in this category: “empathizers” and “systemizers.”

“Empathizers” may prefer a certain type of music; more instrumental, slow, bluesy even, and are high on the empathy scale.

“Systemizers” are systematic people who prefer a certain type of intense music, like rock n’ roll, with dynamics of forte and above.

To find out just how powerful the rhythms of the brain can be like Myers argues, take the music quiz. Halfway through the article, on a scale of like/dislike, there’s an optional quiz in which participants listen to 10 songs and gauge a personal “systemizer,” “empathizer,” or “balanced” personality. In this punny instance, the topics of melodic rhythms and brain rhythms sync up in perfect harmony.

SCAN ME TO TAKE QUIZ

Lizzo’s rise to fame with her viral sleeper hit “Truth Hurts” IVAN BRIONES STAFF WRITER

From her early underground success to topping the Billboard Hot 100 with her viral sleeper hit, “Truth Hurts,” nearly two years after its release; singer, songwriter, and rapper Lizzo has redefined what success looks like as a female musician and made her mark on the music industry.

Junior English and political science major, Remy Levy shares, “Lizzo is a selfloving queen whose songs go far beyond ‘Truth Hurts,’ ‘Good as Hell,’ and ‘Juice.’ She’s one of the only [artists] who’s album I can list to in its entirety. I highly recommend listening to her feel-good songs!”

Melissa Jefferson, professionally known as Lizzo, has become a pop culture sensation and been brought to the forefront of the music industry and exalted for her prolific career as a musician. However, Lizzo’s success was a slow climb to a massive breakthrough. Her story begins in Houston,

Texas at the age of 10, shortly after moving from her birthplace of Detroit, Michigan.

In her early life as a teenager, Melissa first began to musically express herself in rap.

At the age of 14, Melissa formed a musical group called Cornrow Clique with some of her close friends. Melissa attended Alief Elsik High School where she took a great interest in classical music and began studying the flute. Soon after graduating, Lizzo proceeded to continue pursuing a musical career by study classical flute at the University of Houston. Unfortunately, after her father’s passing, Melissa came to the realization the emotional burden of trying to pursue both her dream of becoming a performer and continuing to seek higher education was too taxing. As a result, Melissa left school and moved to Minneapolis to become Lizzo full-time.

After a few years free-lancing, performing in local venues, and releasing her album “Lizzobangers,” Time magazine named her one of 14 music artists to watch in 2014.

Lizzo’s attention landed her a deal with Nice Life and Atlantic Records which produced her first major-label EP, “Coconut Oil,” released in 2016. Following the major success of this EP, Lizzo launched the hit single “Good as Hell” and then eventually “Truth Hurts” in 2017. The single landed her some success at the time but did not compare to fame she would reach in the next two years.

Presently, it seems Lizzo has gained even more fame after a viral video surfaced on the internet in June 2019 of Lizzo’s performance transitioning from rapping lyrics to playing the flute. And after the release of the 2019 Netflix film “Someone Great” which featured “Truth Hurts,” the single skyrocketed in popularity and re-entered the Billboard Hot 100, ultimately reigning as the number one song for seven weeks.

Lizzo was nominated for Push Artist of the Year and Best New Artist at the 2019 MTV Video Music Awards but was defeated

by Billie Eilish. However, her performance of “Truth Hurts” and “Good as Hell” was

“

Lizzo is a self-loving queen whose songs go far beyond ‘Truth Hurts,’ ‘Good as Hell,’ and ‘Juice.’”

Remy Levy junior English and political science major

welcomed with major applause and gained her critical praise.

To no surprise, Lizzo has even landed a few acting roles in 2019 as well. In addition to her musical projects, Lizzo ventures into acting, with a voice performance role in the animated film “UglyDolls,” and a supporting part in the recently released crime, comedydrama film “Hustlers.”

With four singles having reached doubleplatinum, Lizzo is now touring worldwide, including in Germany and the Netherlands, and will continue to be on the radar for future hits.

Graphic by Jacob A. Henson

14 SPORTS

EDITOR:TAWNY DAVIS |@STMURATTLERNEWS | NOV. 20, 2019

StMU men’s soccer wins first conference title in Lone Star EVA F. GARCIA STAFF WRITER

The St. Mary’s men’s soccer team qualified for regionals and became the regular season champions of the Lone Star Conference in the span of two weeks. The team accomplished some of their goals for the season and continue to strive to keep winning. Qualifying for regionals is a very important goal for the men’s soccer team.

“Qualifying for regionals is a massive accomplishment for our program. It shows how talented the players are here,” said Alain Peralt, junior forensic science major and one of the team’s defenders. “It gives the players more national exposure that can help those aspiring to be pro.”

Peralt feels extremely proud he and his teammates were able to qualify for regionals.

Taking it one game at a time is a key factor to continue to improve and keep accomplishing their goals.

“I feel very proud and happy with the guys for qualifying. I feel like this has been a sensational year for the program. We have shown that on our day, we can compete with anyone,” added Peralt. “If we keep our head down and continue working, we will go far into the NCAA national tournament.”

After regionals, Peralt pointed out the team wanted to see how far they would get with their hard work. He added one of the team’s goals was to win the Lone Star Conference. They became the regular season champions on Nov. 7 after defeating UT Tyler. According to Peralt, winning the regular season exceeded their expectations.

“Every time we win past the conference the tournament is just a new accomplishment,” said Peralt. “We really came together as a team and put on a display that really reflected how good of a team we

have become. It was the best finish to what has been a phenomenal regular season!”

Teammate, Julian Dziuda, had very similar sentiments as Peralt.

“Qualifying for regionals is a huge deal for our program,” said Dziuda, sophomore biology major. “We have never gone to the NCAA tournament, so this is a first for us.”

Dziuda added that having two good years back to back, as well as the best season is something great for the program. Like Peralt, Dziuda was proud to have qualified for regionals.

“We just won the conference against UT Tyler, so we have a lot of momentum,” added Dziuda. “If we can carry this momentum into regionals, we have an excellent chance of making it to the final four in Pittsburgh.”

Qualifying for regionals was not an easy task, according to Dziuda. It was worth it however, since they are now first for the program after winning the regular season conference.

“It took a lot of hard work and sweat for our team to get to where we are,” said Dziuda, “We hope to continue our success in order win the conference tournament this upcoming weekend and keep that momentum going into regionals.”

Making it to the final four in Pittsburgh is another of the team’s goals after regionals.

“I strongly believe we can make it to the final four and win the national tournament,” affirmed Dziuda. “This would be a huge achievement, not only for the men’s soccer team, but St. Mary’s altogether.”

By staying untied and working together as a team, it is very likely that they will accomplish this goal.

StMU defenders Alain Peralt and Lewis Wilson get ball past UT Tyler opponent.| Photo by Cody Rivera

St. Mary’s defender Martin Ibarreche defends the ball against UT Tyler player.| Photo by Cody Rivera

Men’s golf finished fall season at Jerry Hrnciar Invitational TAWNY DAVIS SPORTS EDITOR

The St. Mary’s men’s golf team finished their fall season by placing second at the Jerry Hrnciar Invitational hosted by Cameron University at the Territory Golf and Country Club.

St. Mary’s played 18 holes each day of play.

Senior business management major Emilio Gonzalez finished the first round oneunder par, junior mechanical engineering major Ryan Dixon earned the low score for the team which included four birdies during the first round. Junior international business major Alejandro Santibanez, perfomed well in the first round with 14 first-round pars. Gonzalez started the second round for the Rattlers to move to t w o under

for the tournament and added another birdie to his total on the eighth hole but ended the front nine with a double bogey.

Gonzalez made four birdies on the back but to fell back one-under during the 17th hole, landing him in a tie for second place.

Although the team placed highly in the tournament, Santibanez wasn’t entirely pleased with the results.

“Placing second is never good, we always want to win the tournaments of course, mainly because we are capable and good enough to do so,” he said.

“So, getting second place for us is not good even if people say it’s okay to get second. In the mind of a champion second place means first loser,” said Santibanez.

Dixon also said, “Placing second in the event was disappointing for us, we are top 10 in the nation so we are competing at the highest level of Division II golf,

we don’t go out there to come second, we go there to win.”

Moving into next season, the players agree that there are areas that need improvement.

“The end of my fall season was good because I played w e l l during the season learned need to improve spring,” Dixon “I need to improve mentally and more confidence within myself.”

Going into the spring season, p l a y e r s w i l l

however what I for the said. have

this second place finish as a means for motivation.

“Placing second motivates us for the offseason to work hard so that we can win tournaments in the spring,” Dixon said. “We have a great team this year and we have the capabilities to win a national championship in the spring.”

Santibanez had similar sentiments.

“We need more focus and more determination, the little things is what we need to get better at,” Santibanez said. “Our goal for the spring is to make it to nationals and do an awesome job at the championship.”

The team will begin their spring competition in February when they participate in the Jack Brown Memorial Invitational in Laredo, Texas.

t h e u s e

Graphic by Victoria Valle

SPORTS 15

NOV. 20, 2019 | STMURATTLERNEWS.COM

Softball goes up against University of Texas in scrimmage LARRY RODRIGUEZ-SHEA STAFF WRITER

The Rattler softball team competed on Nov. 3 against the University of Texas at Austin in a softball exhibition match up.

Interdivisional competition is rare but happens from time to time. The Longhorns won the contest 14-0 however despite the loss, many of the players felt the game was a valuable learning experience to prepare for the season.

The differences between Division I and Division II softball are dramatic. All players involved are athletic and talented.

The game was a valuable experience for the Rattlers. Senior Staci Johns, senior English language arts and reading major

“

I like to think of us as a powerhouse D II, able to compete against any other D II out there and hold our own.”

Staci Johns senior English language arts and reading major

believes the experience will help the team prepare for conference play and was a valuable experience playing against top competition.

“When competing against a D I school,

one such as a powerhouse like Texas, the game goes at a quicker speed,” Johns said.

“It’s definitely an experience that all of us may use to up our game. Plus, it’s an experience that will, later on, prepare us for our tougher and more costly games further into the season.”

The softball season may not officially start till the spring, yet teams across the NCAA are playing through their fall schedules to prepare for the official start to the season.

The team can take a lot away from this game and use it to prepare for the season. Johns expressed a feeling of happiness in the team’s performance despite the loss and believes the game to have been a learning experience.

“I think competing against these D I schools are a learning experience for us all,” Johns said. “When a D II goes up against a D I school, nobody expects us to win. It allows us to play to the best of our ability without any expectations pressuring us, and truly come alive as the underdog.”

The Longhorns are considered a powerhouse in the world of Division I softball. One of the huge differences between the Divisions according to Johns is the atmosphere that comes with the game. Such as the crowd sizes and connections players share with fans.

“I like to think of us as a powerhouse D II, able to compete against any other D II out there and hold our own,” Johns said. “The difference between a powerhouse D I like

Photo Courtesy of Rattler Athletics

UT though, and a D II, for the most part, is the speed of the game.”

Despite those differences at the end of the day, Johns believes that they are all still athletes playing the game they love.

“Besides the atmosphere though, up close there wasn’t a huge difference between us and them,” Johns said, “They were just any other athlete our age, who were competing in a game they love.”

Graphic by Isabela Vazquez

Hopefully, the softball team will be prepared in the fall for their upcoming season. This will be the first year for the Rattlers in the Lone Star Conference against many familiar foes and some new ones which they will do their best to compete against.

StMU women’s basketball kick off season against UT El Paso TAWNY DAVIS SPORTS EDITOR

At the beginning of their new season, the St. Mary’s women’s basketball team played in their lone exhibition game against the University of Texas El Paso.

While they fought hard, they lost in a close game 59-47.

Freshman Bella Hughes, exercise and sports science major, led the Lady Rattlers with 14 points which included three threepointers. Hughes was one of the three players to hit multiple three-pointers for the team.

Juniors Mya Culver, computer engineering major, and Soteria Banks, computer science major, added 10 points each to the final score. Senior point guard Alexia Torres,

exercise and sports science major, then led the team with seven assists and five rebounds, while both Banks and freshman Tonia Bilic, mechanical engineering major, each blocked one shot. This was followed by Banks, Hughes and junior Hannah Wilson who tallied two steals each to tie for the team lead. This was the fourth time the Lady Rattlers went against the Lady Miners at UTEP in an exhibition game to kick off the Rattler’s season, with the team now 1-3 in the contest.

Wilson, junior mechanical engineering major, spoke about the game against the Lady Miners and how it kicked off the entire season and how she feels the team is going to be.

“We played well as a team. Everyone

St. Mary’s women’s basketball do shooting and defense drills during practice.| Photo by Cody Rivera

contributed in points, steals, assists, or rebounds, and we did well at passing the ball around until there was an open shot,” Wilson said. “We have a young team with a lot of new players joining the program so I think that the more games we play the more we will improve.”

Wilson also believes that the team needs to be more mindful of the ball in certain situations in order to improve for the rest of the season.

“One major point we need to improve on is taking care of the ball when we are being pressured and minimizing turnovers,” Wilson said.

This game showed the type of talent Division II schools have against their Division I counterparts. While ultimately,

the Lady Rattlers did not win, they did put up good stats against the Lady Miners.

Playing against a Division I team usually adds a challenge to the team because of the talent the team possess.

“Division I teams usually have the height advantage and play at a fast pace.

So, playing against UTEP prepares us for teams that pressure and run the court well,” Wilson said.

Overall, this was a great opportunity for the St. Mary’s team and an interesting start to their basketball season. The Lady Rattlers will be out of town for the rest of November, with their next home game being on Friday, Nov. 29.

Hannah Wilson practices her layup shot during practice for upcoming game.| Photo by Cody Rivera

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