Vol. 110 Issue No. 01 - 09/09/2021

Vol 110 | Issue 1 | Sept. 9, 2021 | San Antonio, Texas

University introduces Mexican-American Studies program VICTORIA OLGUIN AND LARRY RODRIGUEZ-SHEA NEWS EDITOR AND MANAGING EDITOR

Everything is bigger in Texas, as the saying goes. With its big cities, wide skies and a state capitol building larger than that of the United States, it is safe to say this statement has some truth. But are there other hidden qualities contributing to Texas’ grandness? For students and faculty at St. Mary’s University, culture makes their community grand. As a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) one of the strongest presences on campus is the Hispanic/Latinx population.

This fall, students and faculty are starting a Mexican American studies (MAS) minor and a certificate interdisciplinary program, where they can further study the culture and community they are a part of. This was possible with the help of 200 students who signed a petition to begin a program that helps students gain a more thorough understanding of Mexican American cultures and historical roots while they practice socially conscious communityengaged research.

Available to all students, the goal of the program is to educate and prepare students

for professional lives that can serve and represent their Hispanic communities within a variety of fields, such as education, policy analysis, public administration, governance, economic development and the arts and humanities. Courses include political science, business and psychology among many others. With Texas being one of the two states with the highest Hispanic population, it is clear the program is an important one. Students who realize the importance of this program are already looking forward to its beginning.

Matthew Tobar, a freshman political science major at St. Mary’s University, is one of many who will be joining the Mexican American studies program this fall.

“I, myself being part Mexican-American, it definitely caught my eye. It’s definitely a way for me to learn a little bit more about my culture as well,” Tobar said. “And to be able to get in on something off the ground floor and mold it into a hopefully successful program. I can’t really pass that opportunity up.”

The program got its start as an idea in Fall 2019 when a group of students formed the Hispanic Student Union (HSU). The group was fortunate enough to form right when student buzz on campus began to call

for more cultural awareness. Senior political science major Omar Herrera-Miramontes was a co-founder and former vice president of HSU. He spoke to why students felt the need to organize this group.

“Starting HSU was really a dorm room ‘grassroots’ idea, [myself] and the other founders got together in Lourdes and said ‘Yeah this is something we need,’” HerreraMiramontes said. “The reason we started HSU was because we felt there was a void of the Hispanic voice missing on St. Mary’s Campus. Which we saw as a flaw since we are a Hispanic Serving Institution with over 70% of our community on campus being Hispanic.”

Herrera-Miramontes and his fellow founders recognized that the university was lacking a general organization for students to join. There were specific groups such as the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers or multicultural Greek organizations but no general options for Hispanic students existed. The need for such a group is what led to the establishment of the HSU. The group took on the initiative to organize culturally relevant programming and educate the community.

Within weeks of forming the HSU, political science professor and advisor to

HSU, Arturo Vega, Ph.D., brought up the idea of a cultural studies program. Little did he and the budding HSU know, that just across the way professor of psychology Rick Sperling, Ph.D. had students working on research advocating for the need of such a program at St. Mary’s. With the goal of establishing a dedicated ethnic studies major, the faculty and students combined their efforts and the process for beginning this program began.

“The founding of the program was a student initiative,” Vega said. “Over 200 undergraduate and graduate Latino/ Latina/Latinx students, via the efforts of the Hispanic Student Union and others, petitioned the College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences and MAS faculty for a MAS minor. Their petition, among other things, wondered why a Hispanic serving designated institution (a HSI university), like ours, and with a long and successful history in civic engagement and community research and instruction did not have even a MAS minor.”

Both students and faculty worked on drafting a proposal and rationale for such a program. Echoing other historical efforts, the student- driven CONTINUED ON PG. 2

Graphic by Demi Bestor

OPINION

SPANISH

CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT

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New caf policies recieved with positivity

Inernational students return to normalcy

Unique treats to try in San Antonio

Student-athletes gear up for another season

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2 NEWS

EDITOR: VICTORIA OLGUIN | @STMURATTLERNEWS | SEPT. 9, 2021 FROM “STUDENT-DRIVEN”

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initiative of this program calls back to the history of Mexican American students of activism at St. Mary’s. This is why the program has placed such a strong emphasis on student involvement and engagement including prospecting the formation of an advisory council for the program.

Now that the program is officially implemented student and faculty buzz is high. Very soon students will be able to find this program on the academic catalog and it will be listed on the university website. New students like Tobar are looking forward to watching the program grow and are excited to be a part of this new journey.

“Since the program is brand-spanking new, I’m hoping to get some leadership skills by helping the professors mold the program into something the school can be even more proud of,” Tobar said.

Others are just learning about the program and are thinking of joining as well. Gianna Garcia, incoming freshman political science major, is considering joining the program.

“It’d be an interesting opportunity in all honesty. I’d be able to learn more about my culture obviously and be able to build a community with others who share the same identity as me, but also give me an opportunity to perform and help the community as it is,” Garcia said. “There are so many experiences you might get from it and it’s such an amazing concept. It seems like a lot of fun and I honestly wouldn’t mind joining.”

The program will help students with admissions to graduate schools and gain employment in both the private and public sectors. Its interdisciplinary nature will also allow many students who want to learn about these topics to engage with

the material. Vega wants the community to know that now it is imperative that momentum doesn’t die down as the program grows.

“We are on the way,” Vega said. “Now it is incumbent on both MAS faculty and students to keep it viable and relevant.

Anybody (this minor is not just for Latinos/ as) who wants to work in this town, region, state and nation should be versed in the MAS experience.”

Even though this is a major victory for progress this is only the first step towards the larger goal of establishing a true ethnic studies program. Classes will be offered in the program every semester, beginning Spring 2022. A kickoff event is planned for later in September. Interested students should reach out to the Hispanic Student Union and Dr. Vega for more information.

Students work to form highly-anticipated mariachi band VICTORIA OLGUIN NEWS EDITOR

Surrounded by the vibrant Hispanic cultural environment of San Antonio, students at St. Mary’s noticed something was missing on campus. Freshman political science major, Matthew Tobar, noticed that the university did not have a mariachi band, something so common in the city of San Antonio. Knowing the importance of the Hispanic culture at St. Mary’s, Tobar found it almost necessary to start one.

Tobar decided to discuss this with music department chair, Matthew Mireles D.M.A. Tobar said of his conversation with Mireles, “He said that every year there’s always a few people that ask about the mariachi [band] and he always puts them in a room to see what happens [but] nothing ever comes of it.” The absence of a mariachi band was a shock to Tobar, as he knew St. Mary’s was rich in Hispanic culture.

“I don’t think it’s any secret that we’re very much a majority Hispanic institution,” said Tobar. “I mean, even our Zaragoza opening prayer was bilingual. Mass yesterday was bilingual. We’re very much a Hispaniccentered institution. And you know, [mariachis are] a very important part of not just Mexican culture but Hispanic culture in general. A lot of other countries have mariachis as well. They’re very prominent all over the Americas. It’s also a way to boost school spirit.”

When Tobar heard that there was not a mariachi band at St. Mary’s he decided to use his previous mariachi experience from high school to help start one.

“I helped found a mariachi [band] at my high school [during] sophomore year and it did really well. We got a lot accomplished, so I learned a lot from those experiences, you know, trial and error, what worked, what didn’t and I wanted to be able to take everything I learned and cultivate it again here at college at St. Mary’s,” Tobar explained, “so, I thought, it would be a really interesting endeavor here. And I found out that they didn’t have one here so I thought this would be the perfect opportunity for me to leave this lasting legacy here at the school.”

As Tobar worked to start a mariachi band,

he worked alongside senior psychology major, Sophia Munoz, who has been previously recruiting people for the band.

The dream of starting a mariachi band has been a lasting dream for Munoz since her first year at the university.

planning on joining the band.

“I’m looking forward to performing and having fun with the St. Mary’s and local San Antonio community. I woud love to give back by playing music! Mariachi was such an integral part to my highschool

Sophia Munoz singing at The Good Kind Southtown Matthew Tobar posing for his senior portraits Photo Courtesy of Mario Jimenez

“Coming to St. Mary’s University, I definitely wanted to stay as involved with music as possible. I auditioned for a music scholarship in front of Dr. Mireles and Dr. Rankin,” said Munoz. “After my audition, Dr. Mireles said something like, ‘Oh hey!

Maybe you can start a mariachi [band] here, we don’t have one but we should!’ I really missed my traje from high school, I missed singing the many different mariachi songs and I just wanted to do that again.

So, right away, I emailed Dr. Mireles with enthusiasm.”

With Tobar’s help, Munoz’s plan of starting a mariachi band has slowly been unraveling. She is now excited to watch her project come to life before graduating.

“As a senior graduating in the spring, I really hope for this program to thrive and become something that many others would want to join and be part of the legacy that we hope to grow. This is my big goal for the program!” said Munoz.

Now, both Tobar and Munoz have their arms open to the St. Mary’s community and are welcoming musicians to join the band.

Senior english major, Caitlin Hernandez, who heard about the mariachi, is already

Photo Courtesy of Christopher Tobar

experience. I did it for 3 years and I couln’t imagine stopping. It is also a big and important part of my culture,” Hernandez explained. “People should join the mariachi [band] because the more the merrier! The more members, the more full and rich our sound is,” Hernandez continued.

Tobar also encourages others to consider joining the mariachi band, and is continuing to welcome more musicians who are interested.

“We’d love to have more students come and join. We think it will be a really great opportunity not just to make music together but to make friends as well,” Tobar said. “In my high school mariachi [band], we were almost like a family. Just to be able to make something like that here at St. Mary’s again it would be just fantastic. I hope it works.”

With Tobar and Munoz’s efforts, the start of the mariachi band will soon fill the missing gap of Hispanic culture that has been long needed. Students interested in joining the mariachi band can contact Sophia Munoz at smunoz15@stmarytx. edu and (210) 420-5651 or Matthew Tobar at mtobar@mail.stmarytx.edu for more information.

NEWS 3

SEPT. 9, 2021 | STMURATTLERNEWS.COM

Marianist community at St. Mary’s welcomes new chaplain into the family VICTORIA OLGUIN NEWS EDITOR

Walking through the St. Mary’s campus, there’s a great chance students may run into a Marianist brother or two. With only three Marianist universities in the world, St. Mary’s is home to a unique spiritual community. This year, the university welcomed a new chaplain, Father Brandon Paluch, into the College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences. The position promises the advancement of spiritual care in the university’s community. It was God’s calling that brought Father Brandon to this role.

“The word obedience comes from the Latin word which means to listen and it’s really important for all of us to listen,” said Father Brandon. “We train ourselves to listen to God by listening to our superiors.

The way it works is the superior knows what the needs are in our various ministries and then he knows what our gifts are so he tries to put together ‘how can someone with certain gifts meet this need?’ and then sends us. My Marianist boss, said ‘You’re [going] to go to San Antonio. You’re [going to] serve at St. Mary’s and at Holy Rosary,’ so that’s how it happened! I was told, ‘that’s what you’re [going to] do’ and I’m very grateful ‘cause I love it here!”

Although father Brandon loves his role as a Marianist chaplain, he did not expect to hold that position in his earlier years of college. Throughout his college years at the University of Dayton, many of Father Brandon’s professors, who were also brothers and priests, would constantly encourage him to join the Marianist community.

“My freshman year they asked me and I said ‘no.’ My sophomore year they asked me, I said ‘no.’ My junior year they

asked me and I said ‘no.’ My senior year they asked me, I said.... ‘no.’,” said Father Brandon. “I wasn’t open to the idea, you know? Because I thought, ‘this is kind of weird. A bunch of men living together, not having a family.’ I just didn’t get that. But I also knew at the same time that these were some of the finest human beings I’d ever met; so different from each other, so loving, so selfless, so intelligent, so gifted in many ways. So, I was like ‘this is weird, but these guys are pretty awesome.’”

After college, Father Brandon decided to move to Los Angeles for three years, where he went on multiple retreats. It was these retreats that influenced his decision to join the Marianist community.

“I started going on retreats and praying about it and saying ‘is God really calling me to this?’ At a certain point, on a retreat, there was a wonderful old priest who said ‘so, this is your third retreat like this,” said Father Brandon. “I would encourage you to make a decision [because] I think it will free you.’ and he was right.”[Because] you know, sometimes, we have all these different ideas about what could we do, what could we be, and we can be pulled in so many different directions, but to decide literally means to cut off. You can’t do everything, you know?

So, eventually, I decided to try Marianist life. I was like ‘I’ll try it and then I’ll go on with the normal life,’ but that was 12 years ago and here I am!”

Now, Father Brandon spends his days at St. Mary’s University, where he provides opportunities for students to grow in faith.

“As a minister, we try to do what Jesus did, which is meet people where they are, and then walk with them in the next steps to help them grow in faith,” said Father Brandon, “Every Tuesday we have what we’re calling ‘face-to-face’: an encounter

with Christ at Assumption Chapel from 7p.m. to 8p.m. It’s a prayer! So, people have a chance to be face-to-face with the Lord in the Eucharist and face-to-face once again through Reconciliation. And then I’m also very blessed to talk with faculty members, with staff, with students and to work with the Marianist Leadership Program too and finding God present in the midst of all of it.”

Additionally, Father Brandon has been working on multiple projects for the students and the Marianist community on campus.

“One thing that I’m really excited about, and that’s coming up soon is called ‘Praying with the Marianists,’” Father Brandon said.

“Here in San Antonio, [on] campus and then really close to campus, we have several Marianist communities. Through ‘Praying with the Marianists,’ members of all these communities are gathering together to pray and we’re inviting the whole St. Mary’s University community to pray with us; students, faculty, staff, everybody.

Everybody is welcome to pray with us. It’ll happen three times this semester: on Sept.

14, on Oct. 12, and on Nov. 1, and each time it’ll be at 4:30 [p.m.] in Assumption Chapel. And we’re [going to] have cookies afterwards! So that’s one project I’m working on that I’m really excited about.”

Furthermore, Father Brandon has been working on his podcast, Filius Mariae, which is ‘Child of Mary’ in Latin.

In the podcast, he shares his homilies to the community.

“My hope is to share what I’m doing because I think all of us need to share the gifts God gave us,” Father Brandon said.

The podcast, “Child of Mary,” can be accessed on all major podcasting platforms. The podcast can also be

Graphic Courtesy of the Marianist Mission

accessed on the ‘My Parish’ app.

Father Brandon shared words of wisdom with the St. Mary’s community emphasizing his encouragement on the goodness of God and how spirituality can be an important tool to find life guidance, peace and happiness. He also encouraged students to reach out to University Ministry or any other Marianist brothers in the community.

“Make the most of the opportunities that you have here at St. Mary’s [because] you have all these resources in University Ministry and other offices to help you as you walk that [spiritual] journey and ask those questions” said Father Brandon.

He continued encouraging students sharing that, “Anyone can come to me or any other priests here, we will make ourselves available for you even outside of scheduled times,” Father Brandon said.

The St. Mary’s community is happy to welcome Father Brandon and grateful for his service on campus. Students can contact Father Brandon at bpaluch@stmarytx.edu.

University welcomes strong class of 2025 with large group of valedictorians VICTORIA OLGUIN NEWS EDITOR

Throughout an entire year of virtual learning, students across the world lived through challenges as they faced isolation, technology issues and mental health struggles. It was a tough year for many, but the experience has created a generation of people willing to overcome challenges.

Now, students are slowly returning to on-campus learning, giving them a sense of life as it was before the pandemic. St. Mary’s University is now welcoming the new class of 2025; an extraordinarily strong class indeed. According to Honors Program director Camille Langston Ph.D., the Honors Program is welcoming a number of valedictorians and salutatorians, giving the incoming class a strong academic profile.

It was the unique qualities found at St. Mary’s that brought this class to the community.

Freshman English language and literature major, Mary is Mary Arnolds Photo Courtesy Arnolds Gianna Goulding one of many

valedictorians joining the Honors Program who found St. Mary’s to be a great fit.

“I liked that St. Mary’s was relatively small and close to home. As I looked into it some more, I really liked what I found about both academics and community,” said Arnolds. “People had many good things to say about the teachers. I could see that the community looked after each other and I wanted to be a part of that.”

Now that the fall semester has started, Arnolds has already found many opportunities at St. Mary’s.

“Going away to college has been my biggest transition in life,” Arnolds said.

“I have already found so many new opportunities to be independent, get involved in service and help the people around me. I know that my peers and teachers are here to help me if I can’t do it alone.”

Besides academic opportunities, Arnolds has already been receiving an enriching college experience within the first few weeks of school.

“My experience at St. Mary’s has been great so far!” Arnolds said. “I have made good relationships with my professors and I’ve found some lovely friends. I get to learn about people and cultures that are different from what I’ve experienced. The campus is beautiful and there is so much tradition to be a part of.”

St. Mary’s University has been

recognized for its great community and support. Alongside this, the university also provides rewarding programs that catch the eyes of many students including freshman biology major, Riya Patel. Patel is another incoming valedictorian for the class of 2025 who found the programs the university offers especially appealing.

“I was accepted into the [Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine] Early Acceptance Program, which provides me a guaranteed seat in their medical school, as well as the opportunity to choose from multiple locations to pursue my undergraduate degree,” Patel said.

“I was able to learn so much about the extensive resources that St. Mary’s has to offer to their students. There are endless opportunities for research, a vast amount of clubs dedicated [to] biology and pre-med students and partnerships with amazing hospitals for shadowing programs,” Patel appreciates the many opportunities she has been offered at St. Mary’s. However, she also acknowledges the community and support she has found on campus.

“My favorite thing about St. Mary’s University has to be that it is a close-knit community of students who are always willing to help each other out,” said Patel.

“The fact that St. Mary’s is a small school really appealed to me, as it meant that I would be able to interact with my professors directly, have time to ask personalized

Riya Patel Courtesy of Jostens

questions that I had and become part of a community that values community and kindness.”

Patel is now looking forward to her future at St. Mary’s University.

“I hope to make use of all the extensive opportunities that St. Mary’s has to offer for biology majors and pre-med students throughout my undergraduate years,” Patel said. “I have a very strong feeling that St. Mary’s will help prepare me with the skills and experiences I need to succeed in medical school.”

Although the pandemic brought many challenges, they only created a stronger group of incoming students ready to learn and make the most of their time during inperson classes. With the strong incoming class of 2025, it is no surprise that St. Mary’s holds endless possibilities of a grand future, and the community is ready to see what the class has to bring.

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6 OPINION

EDITOR: SEANA BARCLAY | @STMURATTLERNEWS | SEPT. 9, 2021

Students excited to be back on campus for in-person classes this semester SEANA BARCLAY OPINION EDITOR

St. Mary’s University is once again in person after nearly three whole semesters spent online and many students are happy and relieved to be back on campus with their friends and classmates. The energy around campus is a refreshing sight and many students are grateful for all the university is doing to keep the semester as normal as possible while staying as safe as possible during the ongoing pandemic.

There are still signs and markers all around campus reminding students to wear their masks, get tested and get vaccinated.

The cafeteria has brought back reusable silverware and to-go containers as well as self-serve stations. Alongside the selfserve stations, there are boxes of gloves and parchment paper and hand sanitizer stations are placed throughout the cafeteria as well.

There are also surveillance testing sites and other restrictions around campus to ensure student and staff safety.

Despite the various restrictions and changes around campus, many students are just glad to be attending university classes in person once again.

“I’m excited to be in person again,” said senior communication studies major Rachel Huron. “I miss the in-class discussions and interactions with [others].”

Senior computer science major Amanda Villarreal shared this sentiment.

“So far I’ve enjoyed being in person again” Villarreal said. “It was nice to be able to see my entire class and not just squares and pictures from Zoom.”

“I honestly feel so relieved to be in person again,” said senior English major Andrea Moreno. “I’m paying attention better and I feel like I get more out of my class time than when we were virtual.”

Along with being back in person and having to follow the updated safety precautions, many students feel comfortable being back on campus despite the pandemic continuing.

“I feel pretty comfortable as most people

students returning to nearly full class sizes once again, classes that sometimes are held in small classrooms that don’t leave much room for social distancing in the first place.

“I know [social distancing is] a guideline but I don’t see it followed in classrooms as far as seating goes,” said Villarreal. “Although I understand there’s only so much [the university] can do to accommodate a whole class.”

Similarly, some students are also

Professor Charles Booker teaching an in-person class to music students.| Photo by Adrianna Mirabal

are following the COVID guidelines,” Villarreal said.

But the pandemic is not over yet and some students still have some concerns despite all of the excitement around campus.

Namely, social distancing is a concern for

concerned about some of their peers who aren’t following the mask policy around campus.

“I am concerned for those students who don’t like to wear their mask on campus, potentially spreading COVID around

campus,” said Moreno.

Despite these concerns, students have been enjoying their time here on campus among their peers again as opposed to everything being virtual. Many students shared that they are simply happy to have inperson conversations versus communicating solely over Zoom. Similarly, others are excited to try and have a regular classroom experience again despite everything the world has been through this past year.

“I love being in person again because I get to have an in-person conversation as opposed to texts or emails,” said Huron. “It’s an entirely different experience.”

“What I like about being in person again is the classroom engagement. There’s a level of interaction in class that you just can’t get over Zoom which makes it easier to focus,” Villarreal added.

“I like that I can actually feel like I’m engaging in class discussion and in-person classes lead to less room for distraction,” Moreno said. “I’m still taking one virtual class this semester and I can totally tell the difference of my attention span between inperson and virtual.”

It comes as no surprise that this semester has been off to a more hopeful start despite the ongoing pandemic. The university continues to try and make this academic year the best it can be while protecting students and staff. The St. Mary’s community must continue to care and protect each other as well, as it is going to take the combined effort of the community to truly get back to normal once again.

Cafeteria policy changes met with overall positivity from the student body SEANA BARCLAY OPINION EDITOR

With this semester marking the return to on-campus living and learning, many procedures have come back or have been adapted to fit our ever-changing world but none of these changes are quite as obvious as those in the cafeteria here at St. Mary’s.

The cafeteria is a central hub for all students on campus, even commuters, and it comes as no surprise that students have been excited to return to sharing meals with friends and peers once again. However, this excitement is not without caution on the part of the cafeteria staff. While selfserve stations, reusable silverware and togo containers have returned, many safety expectations are still in place to ensure student and staff safety. From the gloves and parchment paper at self-serve stations to the near-constant cleaning of the cafeteria, the area has adjusted to ensure cleanliness and safety during the pandemic.

“Guest and employee health and safety is always our priority,” Debbie Walton, senior district marketing manager for Aramark said. “We will continue to adapt service styles to adjust for current campus protocols.”

“Menu modifications and service area adjustments are some of the initiatives [taken] to ensure a safe dining environment,” Walton continued. “At times this means that certain locations and stations may not be available, but we are prioritizing hiring to support all locations and continue our focus on safety.”

These modifications to the cafeteria have not gone unnoticed by the student body

who use the cafeteria on a daily basis. Many students approve of the safety measures put in place.

“These practices [are] plenty safe,” said senior history major Oscar Ortega. “I like the balance between the pandemic safety practices and pre-pandemic practices such as self-serve returning, but with protective gloves, [etc.].”

“I’m moderately comfortable with the current safety practices at the cafeteria,” said senior history major Claudia Sanchez.

“I love using the disposable gloves that they provide because they give me a better sense of security.”

Despite all the precautions in place, some students still have concerns about the safety of the cafeteria due to a lack of social distancing and inconsistent safety practices on students’ parts as well as the size of the cafeteria in general.

“I always see other students directly touching all of the self-servicing handles,” said Sanchez. “Likewise, I know the metal utensils are ecologically friendly but I still feel wary of using them over plastic utensils.”

While most students do follow the safety procedures in the cafeteria, students have noticed their peers not taking the safety practices as seriously, causing some insecurity among those who follow the procedures put in place.

“Seeing how some students don’t take as many safety precautions as they have available to them makes me feel insecure but at the same time there are other students who do a good job at social distancing and using gloves,” Sanchez said.

The lack of social distancing is one

concern both Sanchez and Oretga shared.

While the cafeteria is large and spacious, tables and chairs are still close together in an attempt to house as many students as possible causing a fundamental lack of social distancing which has been a cause for concern for a few students.

“One improvement I might suggest is the reimplementation of distancing both in line and at tables,” Ortega said. “Occasionally, I’ve seen that students, when in line, are as near each other as they were pre-pandemic, and when seated, are often extremely close to each other, including people one table over, without masks, talking and eating.”

“I personally feel the cafe is simply not spacious enough to both house the average number of students on any given day and

at the same time guarantee distance-based [viral] safety when masks are not worn,” continued Ortega.

Despite the few concerns both Sanchez and Ortega brought up, both were pleased with the cafeteria’s handling of the situation.

The cafeteria staff have been quick to serve students as well as remind them to continue following cafeteria policies. While the pandemic continues around us, the safety measures put in place by the cafeteria continue to prioritize student and staff safety and comfort.

Even now, the cafeteria is still a gathering spot for almost all St. Mary’s students and most are simply excited to see their peers again face to face and enjoy a meal with good company.

Allison Magera grabs dessert as per Diamondback Cafe’s safety policy.| Photo by Adrianna Mirabal

OPINION 7

SEPT. 9, 2021 | STMURATTLERNEWS.COM

Students expecting to continue adapting to changes due to the pandemic CHLOE PRESLEY CONTRIBUTING WRITER

During the past school year, most students were forced into an online learning environment due to the COVID-19 pandemic that caused an international lockdown last March. As they found themselves pushed into an entirely different form of learning, students found themselves needing to adjust quickly with little time to spare. With the new school year starting off fully in-person, it’s no wonder people are having a difficult time readjusting to the previous learning format.

Freshmen have it especially hard, given they not only have to adjust to being back in person, but they must adapt to an entirely new learning environment.

“The major adjustments most students had to make were moving to a new city or state in a pandemic, as well as [learning] how to manage their finances with financial aid during the time of uncertainty,” freshman psychology major Arianna Ortiz said.

Returning students voiced how they are accommodating the new and overwhelming changes the pandemic has brought us. Given the ever-looming delta variant, students are still having to make adjustments to their normal school day that they did not have to make prior to the lockdown.

EDITORIAL STAFF Editor-in-Chief Demi Bestor Managing Editor Larry Rodriguez-Shea Copy Editor Elizabeth Perez Layout and Design Sara Regassa Advertising Manager Megan Angelo Multimedia Editor Adrianna Mirabal Web Editor Briana Bailey News Editor Victoria Olguin Spanish Editor Maria Jose Valiente Opinion Editor Seana Barclay Culture and Entertainment Editor Jacob A. Henson Sports Editor Didier Cadena Faculty Adviser Kathe Lehman-Meyer

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.

“I’m trying to accommodate for students who might be a little weary of in-person events,” said senior mathematics major and Society of Mathematicians president Jorge Martinez. “And just in case we do shut down again, my organization will be ready to have meetings online, so it’s not going to be anything new.”

Returning students have also voiced their excitement about coming back to school due to rising mental health concerns and once again having access to the various inperson resources offered by the university.

Given that most of the time during online learning there was a sort of barrier between students and professors, it was incredibly

difficult for students to get the attention they needed while doing virtual learning.

Now that everyone is back in person and on campus, it makes those resources a lot more accessible for students and professors alike.

“I think this was the best decision the school has made for all of us because a lot of people were experiencing mental health issues because of the solitary confinement [during the pandemic],” said junior engineering management major Benjamin Coronado. “I think we all needed this in a way and it’s been great.”

“I’m happy to be back, I don’t think I could have gone another semester being online,” Martinez said. “I’ve missed the

Graphic by Adrianna Mirabal

classroom and I missed seeing people in the classrooms and I missed running around campus because I’m five minutes late to class, not five minutes late to a Zoom meeting.”

Professors have also voiced their happiness on being back after having to teach online for so long. Catholic Philosophy Chair and professor James Greenaway, Ph.D. said he is passionate about finally being able to teach in a classroom setting.

“It was an absolute joy to be in the classroom, because the last time I was in a classroom teaching a class was the end of November 2019,” Greenaway said. “I’m used to being in a classroom and I really enjoy being with all these people and I love to hear what people think.”

Overall, students are excited to finally be back on campus after such a long time in quarantine. Despite a hint of uneasiness lingering in everyone’s minds, most people on campus are ready to take on the year with their heads held high.

“I’m very excited to see what the future holds,” said Coronado. “It makes me feel like life can be normal again. It gives me faith and hope, especially in my academic process. I didn’t want to be online.”

With students and professors finally being allowed back into the classroom, the university as a whole can begin its return to normalcy.

Unused hall director parking spots called into question SEANA BARCLAY OPINION EDITOR

With the inevitable return of students to campus so too returns the age-old problem of trying to find an open parking spot on an otherwise full campus. While the St. Mary’s campus does include many large parking lots throughout, many of the residence halls and other lots nearby have to deal with smaller, more restricted lots.

Many students, especially those in dorms like Founders and others in the Village, have to find parking in a long, narrow lot at the back of the Village. While the majority of the parking spaces are open to residents, there are scattered reserved spots throughout the lot including a few for visitors and some reserved for hall directors.

But the hall director parking spots have sat vacant for the past few academic years as the individual Village halls like Bordeaux, Adele and Cremer no longer have their own hall directors.

Although the parking situation hasn’t been as difficult as it was in previous years due to more flexible learning situations, students still feel as though something should be done about the unused spaces.

“In the case that a hall director spot is consistently remaining unused, I think that the spot should be made available to students,” said junior finance and risk management major Zane Smith.

While not all students had a single cohesive opinion on the matter, the consensus seems to be the same. The

lack of spots available to residents in the Village is concerning.

“I really don’t have an opinion with unused hall director spots,” said sophomore computer science major Enrique Castro.

Castro continued by bringing up the housing situation many students are faced with here at St. Mary’s.

Hall director parking spot sign from the resident Village on campus.| Photo by Adrianna Mirabal

“Students pay a lot of money to live on campus and right during the housing crisis, finding other living conditions makes it hard to move off campus,” Castro said.

Smith also brought up the living situation students encounter here on campus.

“We pay lots of money in room and board costs, we should get access to the best parking when it is available,” Smith said.

This struggle to find off-campus housing leaves many students unable to look anywhere else besides on-campus living, leading to the aforementioned parking issues.

“With this semester’s full return to campus, parking is much more limited in areas of the Village that contain high numbers of residents,” Smith continued.

Additionally, Castro mentioned the lack of ease with regards to providing feedback and suggestions to the Office of Residence Life concerning issues faced by residents. “[There’s] no way for a student to provide feedback,” Castro said. “How can the St. Mary’s community improve the retention of students on campus if the only way to make a change is to go through numerous hoops with administration?”

While many students would like the unused spots to be given to students, others want something to be done about the two reserved spots for visitors in the Village.

Students have complained in the past about the small amount of parking reserved for visitors especially in resident areas such as the Village. Though visitors can get a temporary visitor’s permit from university police, there should still be more available spots for visitors in case a non-resident has to visit on short notice.

Although student opinions vary on the matter, students hope to see on-campus solutions in the near future.

THINGS TO DO ON CAMPUS JOIN STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION

GET INVOLVED

Student Government Association (SGA) is a representative for the student body at St. Mary’s that acts as the voice of students. Given a wide range of responsibilities, SGA seeks to improve the general student experience. SGA presents student ideas, interests and concerns to administrative offices and the school-wide community. SGA co-sponsors events such as Burgers with the Brothers and Dinner with the Deans throughout the academic year.

Photo courtesy of Office of Community Engagement

The Office of Community Engagement offers students a hands-on learning Photo courtesy of Rattler Athletics experience that promotes not only the development of their faith and vocation but also their understanding of justice and common good. In a journey to become well-informed citizens with Marianist traditions, St. Mary’s students engage in a variety of campus activities such as voter education and registration, lectures and group discussions and informative sessions.

TRYOUT FOR RATTLER ATHLETICS

Photo courtesy of Rattler Athletics

St. Mary’s University offers intercollegiate and intramural athletic programs in a wide range of sports. Student athletes may try out for sports teams such as basketball, soccer, golf and tennis. Although there are additional options for women, such as volleyball and softball, men can also participate in baseball.

The University Programming ATTEND Council (UPC) is a studentorganization that EVENTS run organizes FREE educational, HOSTED social and cultural events

BY UPC for students. UPC fosters interests and encourages student engagement by collaborating with the various student organizations on campus to provide a diverse schedule of events according to the need of the university community. Regular events hosted by the UPC include Bingo Night, Trivia Night Graphic by UPC and Netflix watch parties.

ATTEND EVENTS HOSTED BY UNIVERSITY MINISTRY

St. Mary’s not only focuses on students’ personal and professional growth, but also their spiritual growth. Made up of seven full-time professional campus ministers, student ministerial assistants and several student peer ministers, the University Ministry serves the St. Mary’s community in various ways. Notable events hosted by the ministry include spiritual retreats that foster students’ personal growth and Rattler Awakening, where students explore their faith lives.

GO GREEK!

Photo courtesy of STMU Want to be part of a tight-knit community that College Panhellenic Council leads by example? GO GREEK! Home to five sororities and seven fraternities, St. Mary’s University is an environment that supports and encourages members of the Greek letter to preserve the four principles of brotherhood/sisterhood, leadership, scholarship and service. The sororities at St. Mary’s, namely Alpha Phi, Alpha Sigma Tau, Delta Zeta, Kappa Delta Chi and Sigma Sigma Sigma, provide young women with the opportunity to learn and grow together. Members of sororities share their efforts, ideas and principles, which helps them grow stronger as individuals and as a group.

Fraternities, namely Alpha Sigma Phi, Chi Phi, Kappa Sigma, Lambda Chi Alpha, Sigma Beta Chi, Sigma Lambda Beta and Sigma Phi Epsilon, give their members unforgettable experiences. Fraternities help their members build an unbreakable bond of brotherhood that ties them together for a lifetime.

Photo courtesy of Lambda Chi Alpha

JOIN STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS The Office of Student Life is a place where students can learn about the many registered student organizations (RSO) found at St. Mary’s. Not only does the Office of Student Life connect students to campus activities, but it also helps students to start an RSO if an organization of specific interest does not exist.

Student organizations such as the Residence Hall Association (RHA), International Student Association, the Hispanic Student Union and the Women’s Affairs Council foster the social lives of students, as well as build leadership skills.

Photo courtesy of Darren Shiverdecker, Director of Social Media and Videography

For students who want to excel in their chosen fields,there are several academic and professional student organizations available on campus.

Namely science, technology, engineering and math organizations, business and professional organizations and arts, humanities and social sciences organizations aid students studying in either of the three colleges at St. Mary’s.

Resident Assistants and Community Coordinators

ATTEND EVENTS HOSTED

BY THE CAREER AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT CENTER

Photo courtesy of STMU Career Center

The Career and Professional Development Center, formerly the STRIVE Career Center, provides vocational and experiential education opportunities. This is so students can discover a vocation that aligns with their personal and educational values.

It has innovative programs that help students discover the perfect intersection at which their mission, profession, passion and vocation overlap. It also provides services such as free career counseling and advising, job and internship fairs, information tables, networking opportunities, on-campus interviews and resume collection, mock interviews and others to prepare students for their futures.

Editor: Sara Regassa

10 SPANISH

EDITOR: MARÍA JOSÉ VALIENTE | @STMURATTLERNEWS | SEPT. 9, 2021

Dos estudiantes latinos ayudan para formar la muy esperada banda mariachi VICTORIA OLGUIN/ MARÍA JOSÉ VALIENTE

Rodeados por el vibrante ambiente cultural hispano de San Antonio, los estudiantes de St. Mary’s notaron que faltaba algo en la universidad. Un estudiante de primer año de ciencias políticas, Matthew Tobar, notó que la universidad no tenía una banda de mariachis, algo tan común en la ciudad de San Antonio.

Conociendo la importancia de la cultura hispana en St. Mary’s, Tobar sintió que era necesario comenzar una.

Tobar decidió discutir esto con el presidente del departamento de música Matthew Mireles, D.M.A. Tobar mencionó que en su conversación con Mireles “él dijo que cada año siempre hay algunas personas que preguntan sobre la [banda] mariachi y siempre los pone en una habitación para ver qué sucede [pero] nunca surge nada.”

La ausencia de una banda de mariachis fue un shock para Tobar, ya que el sabía que St. Mary’s era rica en cultura hispana.

“No creo que sea ningún secreto que somos una institución mayoritariamente hispana,” dijo Tobar. “Quiero decir, incluso nuestra oración de apertura de Zaragoza era bilingüe. La misa de ayer fue bilingüe. Somos en gran cantidad una institución centrada en los hispanos. Y ya sabes, [los mariachis son] una parte muy importante no solo de la cultura mexicana sino de la cultura hispana

en general. Muchos otros países también tienen mariachis. Son muy prominentes en todo el continente americano. También es una forma de impulsar el espíritu escolar.”

Cuando Tobar se enteró de que no había una banda de mariachis en St. Mary’s, decidió usar su experiencia previa de mariachi en su escuela secundaria para ayudar a comenzar una.

“Ayudé a fundar una [banda] mariachi en mi escuela secundaria [durante] el segundo año y me fue muy bien. Logramos mucho, así que aprendí mucho de esas experiencias, ya sabes, prueba y error, lo que funcionó, lo que no funcionó y quería poder tomar todo lo que aprendí y cultivarlo nuevamente aquí en la universidad en St. Mary’s,” explicó Tobar, “Entonces, pensé, sería un empeño realmente interesante aquí. Y descubrí que no tenían una aquí, así que pensé que esta sería la oportunidad perfecta para dejar este legado duradero aquí en la escuela.”

Mientras Tobar trabajaba para comenzar una banda de mariachis, él colaboró con estudiante de último año de psicología, Sophia Muñoz, quien ha estado reclutando personas para la banda. El sueño de comenzar una banda de mariachis ha sido un sueño prevaleciente para Muñoz atraves de su vida y fuertemente desde su primer año en la universidad.

“Al llegar a St. Mary’s University, definitivamente quería mantenerme más

involucrada con la música,” dijo Muñoz. “Hice una audición para una beca de música frente al Dr. Mireles y el Dr. Rankin. Después de mi audición, el Dr. Mireles dijo algo como: ‘¡Oh, oye! Tal vez puedas comenzar una [banda] mariachi aquí, no tenemos una, ¡pero deberíamos!’

Realmente extrañaba mi traje de la escuela secundaria, extrañaba cantar muchas canciones diferentes de mariachi y solo quería hacerlo Munoz | Cortesia Matthew Tobar | Cortesia de de nuevo. Así que, de inmediato, Sophia Christopher Tobar de Mario Jimenez le envié un correo electrónico al Dr. Mireles con entusiasmo.”

“Nos encantaría que más estudiantes Con la ayuda de Tobar, el plan de Muñoz vinieran y se unieran,” dijo Tobar. “Creemos de comenzar una banda de mariachis que será una gran oportunidad no solo para ha ido evolucionando lentamente este hacer música juntos, sino también para semestre. Ahora ella está emocionada de hacer amigos. En mi [banda] mariachi de la ver su proyecto cobrar mucha vida antes escuela secundaria, éramos casi como una que ella se gradue en el futuro. familia. Solo poder hacer algo así aquí en “Como estudiante de último año que St. Mary’s nuevamente sería simplemente se gradúa en la primavera, realmente fantástico. Espero que funcione.” espero que este programa prospere y se Con los grandes esfuerzos de Tobar y convierta en algo a lo que muchos otros Muñoz, el inicio de la banda de mariachis quieran unirse y a la misma vez ser parte pronto llenará el vacío faltante de la cultura del legado que esperamos crecer” dijo hispana que se ha necesitado durante Muñoz. con mucho enfazis “¡Este es mi mucho tiempo. Los estudiantes interesados gran objetivo para el programa!,” en unirse a la banda de mariachis pueden Ahora, tanto Tobar como Muñoz tienen comunicarse con Sophia Muñoz al los brazos abiertos a la comunidad de St. smunoz15@stmarytx.edu y (210) 420-5651 Mary’s y están dando la bienvenida a los o Matthew Tobar en mtobar@mail.stmarytx. músicos para que se unan a la banda. edu para obtener más información.

Reflexiones de los estudiantes Latinoamericanos sobre el comienzo de clases?

MARÍA JOSÉ VALIENTE

Este año la estación de otoño trae consigo muchos cambios. En la Universidad St. Mary’s, los estudiantes y la facultad se han preparado para el regreso a clases en persona. Esto trae consigo un revoltijo de sentimientos: felicidad, estrés, ansiedad, emoción y mucho más. Gracias a COVID-19, el último año universitario ha sido mayoritariamente en línea. Con la situación de salud mejorando, el regreso a clases en persona ha comenzado y esto ha creado un impacto en los estudiantes de distintas maneras. Muchos han tenido que cambiar sus estilos de vida para así poder acoplarse efectivamente a las nuevas expectativas.

Tres estudiantes Internacionales han compartido sus pensamientos sobre el regreso a clase en persona.

Gianluca Porzio de El Salvador es un estudiante de primer año de ingeniería mecánica. Al compartir sus pensamientos acerca del regreso a clases presenciales Porzio dijo, “Para nosotros, los estudiantes, uno de los mayores cambios es volver

Gianluca Porzio | Cortesia de Porzio

a las clases presenciales después de un año de clases en línea. Como estudiante internacional y como estudiante de primer año, este desafío también significa que también tengo que adaptarme a un nuevo país y a una rutina diaria que implica más independencia.” Porzio además menciona como, “era agradable levantarse de la cama, sentarse en mi computadora para la clase y luego volver a dormir, me alegro de que las clases en persona hayan regresado porque siento que esta configuración permite a los estudiantes tener una experiencia más atractiva y satisfactoria. Esto, en mi opinión, hace que la enseñanza y el aprendizaje sean más efectivos porque facilita la discusión y elimina los factores de distracción que el aprendizaje en línea trajo a la mesa.

Personalmente, creo que St. Mary’s ha hecho un buen trabajo al asegurarse de que todos los estudiantes dentro del campus tengan una transición sin problemas de las clases en línea a las clases precenciales” Elisa Aguilera es una estudiante internacional de México, en segundo año de Administración de Ingeniería. Con

Brissa Campos Toscano | Cortesia de Campos

mucho entusiasmo ella menciona como el volver a clase, “En lo personal me gustó el regreso a clases presenciales. Es una nueva aventura vivir en otro país, conocer nuevas culturas y aprender bien otro idioma. A veces cambiar entre inglés y español crea un cansancio mental, pero me gusta poder vivir esta experiencia de manera presencial y no solo a través de una pantalla.” Aguilera agrega como, “Además, poder conocer a mis compañeros de clase de cara a cara me hace sentir segura, al igual que puedo ver a mis maestros y que tengan la seguridad de que estoy presente, no solo físicamente sino mentalmente. Me gusta poder tener temas de conversación cara a cara, vivir en campus y poder comer o hacer tarea con mis amigos.

Me encanta ver movimiento en la escuela, tener que caminar de clase en clase y saludar a personas que van igual de apresuradas a su siguiente clase. Ahora mismo no veo nada malo en la situación porque básicamente esto es lo normal solamente que apenas puedo experimentarlo y estoy agradecida de poder hacerlo. ya en persona” Brissa Campos Toscano, es una gran

Elisa Aguilera | Cortesia de Aguilera

estudiante de Perú. En su segundo año de Estudios Globales Internacionales, Toscano exalta como, “La situación en mi país es muy difícil entonces me quedé trabajando justo en la oficina de internacionales de la cual ahora estoy a cargo. La verdad que el verano me sirvió mucho para reforzar el hecho de que todo iba ser presencial pero al mismo tiempo me causo un poco de nervios porque ahora tienes que arreglarte para la clase estar afuera 15 minutos antes para no llegar tarde.” Con mucha sinceridad, Toscano expresa como,“También pude ver la realidad de muchos estudiantes internacionales en mi trabajo. Todos estaban emocionados de estar aquí pero también preocupados por sus mismas situaciones sociales y económicas.

Me siento feliz de poder ser un apoyo para ellos y aprender de sus experiencias. Ahora me organizo más con horarios y trato de estar afuera de mi dormitorio desde muy temprano para no retrasarme. Siento que la universidad está haciendo un buen trabajo para ayudar a los estudiantes internacionales pero siento que un refuerzo para ayudarlos emocionalmente y de Información hacen mucha falta. dentro de campus.”

Muchos estudiantes expresan como están sumamente felices de regresar a clases en persona, ya que el nivel educativo es mucho más completo y a la misma vez aprecian el aspecto social, ya que se facilita el hacer nuevos amigos y amigas. Además ellos expresan como les ha costado organizarse para sus clases ya que todo toma mucho mas tiempo. Finalmente los estudiantes desean que COVID-19 se mantenga bajo control para poder continuar sin ningún problema sus estudios en persona.

Se espera que la Universidad siga los protocolos de salud para estar asegurados de su bienestar y seguridad, y asi poder seguir adelante como una fuerte comunidad en St. Mary’s University.

SPANISH 11

SEPT. 9, 2021 | STMURATTLERNEWS.COM

Relatos sobre el gran impacto que tuvo COVID-19 en los estudiantes latinos MARÍA JOSÉ VALIENTE

Ya ha pasado más de un año desde que COVID-19 surgió, evolucionando en una pandemia la cual ha atormentado a más de 7 billones de seres humanos en este planeta.

Las vidas de ellos nunca volvieron a ser iguales, teniendo que acoplarse a las nuevas regulaciones y reglamentos los cuales han sido impuestos a través de varios continentes para el bienestar común. COVID-19 ha afectado a todo el mundo, sin importar su género, raza, estatus social u económico, y edad ya que este no discrimina a quien infecta. Entre los afectados se encuentran los estudiantes universitarios, en este caso los de St. Mary’s University. Cada uno de los estudiantes tienen diversas historias, ninguna es igual, acerca de cómo el virus ha impactado sus vidas. Tres estudiantes de distintos países se ofrecieron para compartir sus historias personales acerca de cómo COVID-19 afectó sus vidas.

De Honduras, Angela Asfura, una estudiante de tercer año en ingeniería mecánica explica, “El COVID ha tenido un gran impacto tanto en Honduras como en

mi. El año pasado cuando nos mandaron de regreso, al principio no pude regresarme ya que habían cerrado las fronteras de mi país

“

El COVID ha tenido un gran impacto en Honduras como en mi.”

Angela Asfura

Tercer año en ingeniería mecánica

y nadie podía entrar ni salir, aquí no tenia un lugar seguro donde quedarme, y mis papás hicieron todo lo posible para que yo pudiera regresar. Logre conseguir un vuelo humanitario de extracción de estudiantes casi un mes después. En Honduras, teníamos escasez de mascarillas, jabón, alcohol y cualquier otra cosa que pudiéramos usar para tomar medidas de seguridad, la situación en los hospitales no mejoró y los números seguian creciendo a un ritmo muy acelerado.” Tristemente ella incluye como, “Todo estaba cerrado y al principio no se se podía pedir comida, ya que todas las aduanas estaban cerradas. Teníamos Toque de queda y no se podía salir en lo absoluto a menos que fuera una emergencia de salud.

La situación no mejoró por mucho, pero ya

para finales de Mayo se podía salir en base al último dígito del número de identidad de una persona. En mi casa mis papás ambos estaban trabajando, mis tres hermanos y yo estábamos recibiendo clases en el mismo lugar. El internet no era tan rápido y en ciertos momentos no podía meterme a mis clases. Varios de nuestros conocidos murieron e incluso un tío mío, no pudimos ir a ningún funeral, ni nada ya que no era permitido, ni para los familiares.”

Estudiante internacional Isabella Benet de Puerto Rico, está en su tercer año de negocios internacionales y mercadería. Ella enfatiza “Como estudiante universitaria, puedo decir sin duda alguna que esta pandemia nos ha afectado a todos de muchas maneras. No solo ha cambiado nuestra vida social por completo, sino que nos ha obligado a adaptarnos a un formato de aprendizaje en línea completo.

Obviamente, las clases presenciales son extremadamente diferentes a las clases en línea. Tener que tomar nuestras clases desde casa es un cambio de ambiente muy drástico. Es mucho más difícil concentrarse, hay muchas más distracciones y mucho

más estrés.” Benet agrega que además de lo dicho anteriormente, “Otro aspecto que está siendo afectado definitivamente es nuestra salud mental. Estar en casa todo el tiempo no es nada saludable ya que no hay interacciones sociales además de la familia. Pasar tiempo con la familia todo el tiempo crea conflictos y puede ser agotador.

También hay situaciones en las que el hogar puede ser un entorno muy tóxico pero no hay otra opción que quedarse.”

COVID-19 afectó la vida de todo el mundo, estos estudiantes son el ejemplo perfecto de cómo cada persona lidio con el virus de distintas maneras y como este afecto de forma diferente a cada individuo. Las vidas de ellos nunca serán iguales, pero cada uno ha encontrado diferentes formas para lidiar con el virus y superarse a sí mismos.

Se espera que en un futuro la pandemia disminuya y eventualmente se tenga bajo control, para que los seres humanos puedan vivir tranquilamente otra vez. O sino que se pueda encontrar paz con la nueva normalidad que existe en este mundo a través de todos los continentes durante estos próximos años que vienen.

Dos estudiantes y sus historias respecto a los estudios Mexicano-Americanos VICTORIA OLGUIN/ LARRY RODRIGUEZ-SHEA/ MARÍA JOSÉ VALIENTE

Todo es más grande en Texas, como dice el refrán. Con sus grandes ciudades, amplios cielos y el edificio del capitolio estatal más grande que el de los Estados Unidos es seguro decir que esta declaración tiene algo de verdad. Pero ¿hay otras cualidades ocultas que contribuyen a la grandeza de Texas? Para los estudiantes y profesores de la St. Mary’s University, la cultura hace que su comunidad sea grandiosa. Como Institución de Servicio Hispano (ISH), una de las presencias más fuertes en el campus es la población hispana/latina.

Este otoño, los estudiantes y profesores están comenzando un programa de estudios mexicano-americanos (EMA) y un programa interdisciplinario de certificado, donde pueden estudiar más a fondo la cultura y la comunidad de la que forman parte. Esto fue posible con la ayuda de 200 estudiantes que firmaron una petición para comenzar un programa que ayuda a los estudiantes a obtener una comprensión más profunda de las culturas y raíces históricas mexicoamericanas mientras practican la investigación comprometida con la comunidad con conciencia social.

Disponible para todos los estudiantes, el objetivo del programa es educar y preparar a los estudiantes para una vida profesional que pueda servir y representar a sus comunidades hispanas dentro de una variedad de campos, como la educación, el análisis de políticas, la administración pública, la gobernanza, el desarrollo económico y las artes y las humanidades. Los cursos incluyen ciencias políticas, negocios y psicología, entre muchos otros. Dado que Texas es uno de los dos estados con la mayor población hispana, está claro que el programa es importante.

Los estudiantes que se dan cuenta de la importancia de este programa ya están esperando su comienzo.

Matthew Tobar, estudiante de primer año de ciencias políticas en la St. Mary’s University, es uno de los muchos que se

unirán al programa de estudios mexicoamericanos en la Universidad este otoño.

“Yo, siendo parte mexicanoestadounidense, definitivamente me llamó la atención. Definitivamente es una forma de aprender un poco más sobre mi cultura también,” dijo Tobar. “Y poder entrar en algo de la planta baja y moldearlo en un programa que ojalá sea exitoso. Realmente no puedo dejar pasar esa oportunidad.”

El programa comenzó como una idea en el otoño de 2019 cuando un grupo de estudiantes formó la Unión de Estudiantes Hispanos (UEH). El grupo tuvo la suerte de formarse justo cuando el zumbido de los estudiantes en el campus comenzó a pedir más conciencia cultural. Omar Herrera-Miramontes, estudiante senior de ciencias políticas, fue cofundador y ex vicepresidente de UEH. Habló de por qué los estudiantes sintieron la necesidad de organizar este grupo.

“Comenzar UEH fue realmente una idea de ‘base’ en el dormitorio, [yo] y los otros fundadores nos reunimos en Lourdes y dijimos ‘sí, esto es algo que necesitamos,’” dijo Herrera-Miramontes. “La razón por la que comenzamos UEH fue porque sentimos que faltaba un vacío de la voz hispana en el campus de St. Mary’s. Lo cual vimos como una falla ya que somos una Institución de Servicio Hispano con más del 70% de nuestra comunidad en el campus siendo hispana.”

Herrera-Miramontes y sus compañeros fundadores reconocieron que la universidad carecía de una organización general para que los estudiantes se unieran. Habían grupos específicos como la Sociedad de Ingenieros Profesionales Hispanos u organizaciones griegas multiculturales, pero no existían opciones generales para los estudiantes hispanos. La necesidad de tal grupo es lo que llevó al establecimiento de la UEH. El grupo tomó la iniciativa de organizar programas culturalmente relevantes y educar a la comunidad.

A las pocas semanas de formar la UEH, el profesor de ciencias políticas y asesor de UEH Arturo Vega Ph.D., planteó la idea

de un programa de estudios culturales.

Poco sabían él y la incipiente UEH que justo al otro lado del camino el profesor de psicología Rick Sperling Ph.D. tenía estudiantes trabajando en la investigación que abogaba por la necesidad de un programa de este tipo en St. Mary ‘s. Con el objetivo de establecer una especialización dedicada a los estudios étnicos, la facultad y los estudiantes combinaron sus esfuerzos y comenzó el proceso para comenzar este programa.

La fundación del programa fue una iniciativa estudiantil,” dijo Vega. “Más de 200 estudiantes latinos/latinas de pregrado y posgrado, a través de los esfuerzos de la Unión de Estudiantes Hispanos y otros, solicitaron a la Facultad de Artes, Humanidades y Ciencias Sociales y a la facultad de EMA por un título menor de EMA. Su petición, entre otras cosas, preguntaba por qué una institución designada por hispanos (una universidad ISH), como la nuestra, y con una larga y exitosa historia en participación cívica e investigación e instrucción comunitaria, ni siquiera tenía un menor de EMA.” Tanto los estudiantes como la facultad trabajaron en la redacción de una propuesta y justificación para dicho programa.

Haciéndose eco de otros esfuerzos históricos, la iniciativa impulsada por los estudiantes de este programa recuerda la historia de los estudiantes mexico-americanos de activismo en St. Mary’s. Esta es la razón por la que el programa ha puesto un énfasis tan fuerte en la participación y el compromiso de los estudiantes en la Universidad, incluida la prospección de la formación de un consejo asesor para el programa.

Ahora que el programa está oficialmente implementado, los estudiantes y profesores están muy emocionados. Muy pronto los estudiantes podrán encontrar este programa en el catálogo académico y se subirá en el sitio web de la universidad. Los nuevos estudiantes como Tobar están ansiosos por ver crecer el programa y están emocionados de ser parte de este nuevo viaje.

“Ya que el programa es completamente

nuevo, espero obtener algunas habilidades de liderazgo ayudando a los profesores a moldear el programa en algo de lo que la escuela pueda estar aún más orgullosa,” dijo Tobar.

Otros están aprendiendo sobre el programa y están pensando en unirse también. Gianna García, estudiante entrante de primer año de ciencias políticas, está considerando unirse al programa.

“Sería una oportunidad interesante con toda honestidad. Obviamente, podría aprender más sobre mi cultura y poder construir una comunidad con otros que comparten la misma identidad que yo, pero también darme la oportunidad de actuar y ayudar a la comunidad tal como es,” dijo García. “Hay tantas experiencias que puedes obtener de él programa y es un concepto increíble. Parece muy divertido y, sinceramente, no me importaría unirme.”

El programa ayudará a los estudiantes con la admisión a las escuelas de posgrado y obtener empleo en los sectores públicos y privados. Su naturaleza interdisciplinaria también permitirá que muchos estudiantes que quieran aprender sobre estos temas se involucren con el material y asi entiendan mas. Vega quiere que la comunidad sepa que ahora es imperativo que el impulso no disminuya a medida que el programa crece.

“Estamos en camino,” dijo Vega. “Ahora corresponde tanto a los profesores como a los estudiantes del EMA mantenerlo viable y relevante. Cualquier persona (este título menor no es solo para latinos o latinas) que quieran trabajar en esta ciudad, región, estado y nación debe estar versado en la experiencia del EMA.” A pesar de que esta es una gran victoria para el progreso, este es solo el primer paso hacia el objetivo más amplio de establecer un verdadero programa de estudios étnicos.

Las clases se ofrecerán en el programa cada semestre, a partir de la primavera de 2022. Se planea un evento de lanzamiento para finales de septiembre. Los estudiantes interesados deben comunicarse con la Unión de Estudiantes Hispanos y el Dr. Vega para obtener más información.

12 CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT

EDITOR: JACOB HENSON | @STMURATTLERNEWS | SEPT. 9, 2021

Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel exhibit sizzles over the summer RYAN ESTES STAFF WRITER

In a busy world, the artistic and historic beauties of life are easily forgotten. During the European Renaissance, one artist among many helped revolutionize the world of art that is known today: Michelangelo.

In 1505, architects Baccio Pontelli and Giovanni de Dolci broke ground for a new chapel in Vatican City: the Sistine Chapel.

When the chapel was completed in 1508, Pope Julius II commissioned Michelangelo to paint the chapel’s ceiling. While it may be challenging to analyze and distinguish each painted figure more than five thousand miles away, Lambermont Events on 950 East Grayson brought Michelangelo’s work up close and personal over the summer.

Several of the paintings from the Sistine Chapel were displayed in separate exhibits for closer examination.

“The Creation of Adam” is one of the most famous paintings of God outstretched to touch Adam’s lackadaisical hand. All the paintings on the ceiling, including the aforementioned, display scenes from the Bible and the ancient Mediterranean world.

Other works include, “The Expulsion from Paradise” and the “Great Flood.” However, the ceiling isn’t the only masterpiece Michelangelo created. A sprawling work directly behind the altar draws spectators into the second coming of Jesus Christ.

Measuring 13.7 meters by 12 meters, “The Last Judgment” is almost too overwhelming to comprehend. Created

MICHAEL DE LA PORTILLA ANDRES GONZALEZ CONTRIBUTING WRITERS LARRY RODRIGUEZ-SHEA MANAGING EDITOR

By Michael De La Portilla Billie Eilish – “Happier Than Ever” (All photos are courtesy of respective artists.) This summer, Billie Eilish released her deeply anticipated album “Happier than Ever.” An album that is characteristic of her ever-changing persona. Ever since her appearance in late 2015, Billie has always been in the spotlight for her style of singing, often leaving the listener alone with “the feels.” There’s very little to desire in the vocal department due to her soft, soothing tone

from 1536 to 1541, the fresco features 390 characters, with Jesus and his mother, Mary, in the center. The lower left half of the fresco depicts the righteous being pulled up to heaven in their resurrected bodies. The lower right half depicts the damned being

of the saved and damned.

Senior English and theology double major Sarah Uhlig had a chance to visit the exhibit over the summer.

“There were things in those images I never saw before,” Sarah reflects. “I don’t

“The Last Judgment” by Michelangelo is a fresco with Jesus and Mary in the upper left. St. Bartholomew with his flayed skin and St. Peter with the keys of heaven can be seen in the middle. St. Catherine holds her ‘breaking wheel’ while St. Blaise holds his iron combs on the bottom right side. | Photo by Ryan Estes

ushered into hell by the Greek mythological boat rower, Charon, and spectator, King Minos. In between both groups of people, seven angels blow trumpets while others hold books containing the names

remember the names of the images but some of them were so hard to look at because it’s the fate of humans; they either go to heaven or hell. We [also] see stories of characters from the Bible. These images allow us to

and Eilish’s songs “My Future,” “Happier Than Ever” and “OverHeated” are probably the most memorable on the album. Yet, while she meets the expectations of her fans, she leaves much to be desired in the realm of collaboration and fresh sound. This album gets four out of five Rattlers.

Fame.” Polo G delivers a tone that tends to rise and fall in the same pattern, creating a sound that, while sounding unique to him, is not something timeless enough to hold on its own. Collaborations with G Herbo in “Go Part 1” and his banger, “Clueless” with Pop Smoke and Fivio Foreign, were the most notable songs in the discography.

Unfortunately, there was too much dullness throughout the album to say he delivered a hit, so three out of five Rattlers.

Polo G – “Hall Of Fame” A few years back, Polo G had recently popped up on the radar and made his presence known with songs like “Pop Out” (2019) and “Heartless” (2020). The expected vibe for most of his music is upbeat and aggressive, which contrasts with the monotony of his new album, “Hall of

By Andres Gonzalez Doja Cat – “Planet Her” “Planet Her” by American rapper, singer and songwriter, Doja Cat, is a pop and

stop and reflect about our faith and how we practice. They remind us that there is a place where people suffer for eternity and it is so scary. God is good and that is where we want to go. Every time I see those images, it reminds me that I want to be better.”

Further into the center of “The Last Judgment” fresco, saints and martyrs surround Jesus and Mary. While St. Peter hands Jesus the keys to the kingdom of heaven, St. Bartholomew holds one of the more surreal aspects in the painting: the flayed skin of his martyrdom. Interestingly enough, some scholars consider Bartholomew’s flayed skin to be a selfportrait of the 60-year-old Michelangelo.

Additionally, martyrs are typically depicted holding objects, which are symbolically the cause of their deaths. For example, in the middle right of the fresco, St. Catherine holds a breaking wheel. It is said that before she was beheaded, the torture wheel broke in two when it touched her. In another example — the middle right of the painting — St. Blaise holds iron combs. Before his beheading, he was beaten and tortured with iron combs.

To this day, people like Catherine, Blaise and Michelangelo continue to captivate the world with their lives and works. The Sistine Chapel exhibit was displayed in San Antonio until Sept. 5 and will continue to travel the nation. For further details and reflection on the depiction of humanity’s destiny and the history of religious art, be sure to visit sistinechapelexhibit.com.

R&B album that emphasizes Doja’s unique style and catchy beats. This album and her previous, “Hot Pink (2019),” helped her become one of the most popular female artists of this generation. As an artist, Doja Cat has produced trendy hits like, “Say So,” “Streets” and “Juicy,” which have energized workouts and livened up parties. Overall, “Planet Her” deserves four and a half out of five Rattlers. The album is provocative yet satisfying with top-rated songs like “Kiss Me More” and “Woman.” Some of the weaker tracks featured on the album include “Payday” and “Ain’t Sh--.”

Migos – “Culture III”

SEPT. 9, 2021 | STMURATTLERNEWS.COM “Culture III” by the notorious rap trio, and first mistakes that feel so surreal that Migos, is a hip-hop album that brings the listeners may feel as if the experiences familiar beats and lyrical style from their happened to them. On her track “Thumbs” past albums. However, the album doesn’t Dacus recounts a powerful experience add anything special, which is shockingly where she accompanies a friend to meet her disappointing. It leaves something to be absent father for the first time, “I lovе your desired, which is also surprising, considering eyes / And he has thеm / Or you have his / Migos has a history of hyped tracks.

‘Cause he was first.”

Additionally, “Culture III” doesn’t seem Needless to say, much of the album to bring any flare or substance to make discusses firsts. Dacus’s main intention for it stand apart from their other albums the album is to create a coming-of-age story. whatsoever. Overall, the album receives Among all these firsts are nostalgic portraits three out of five Rattlers, with a few hits painting facets of the artist’s life. Musically, like, “Handle My Business” and “Modern Dacus’s songs blend perfectly, contrasting Day.” Unfortunately, the album has several dreamy pop beats, feeling the acoustics of poorly written songs such as “Birthday” and her guitar and of course showcasing Dacus’s “Antisocial,” featuring the late rapper Juice powerful voice.

WRLD. “Antisocial” was expected to be a On “VBS,” which stands for vacation bible top hit, but ultimately, it failed due to lazy school, Dacus shares a touching yet relatable writing and rapping. story of uncertainty, “In the summer of ‘07, I was sure I’d go to heaven / But I was hedging my bets at VBS.” Every other track on the album, just like “VBS,” gives a warm embrace to the roller-coaster of life. Hold on tight, for just a couple moments you feel understood and seen, ironically about experiences you might have never had. But then the song ends.

Another track evokes the nostalgia of old friends. “Going Gone” is a playful track discussing an imaginary boy Dacus fell for, “I always had to be home by eight / My dad would kill me if I was late I’ll be going now.”

The song ends with a sing-along from many voices and cheers from Dacus as she reflects, “this is the one,” about the take of the song.

Like all the tracks, this is the one that is very relatable. Somehow she makes it feel like the audience sang along with her in that little

By Larry Rodriguez-Shea studio too.

Lucy Dacus – “Home Video” That is the power of Dacus. Overall, her In her latest studio album “Home Video,” music has the audience relating and singing Lucy Dacus takes the audience on a deeply along about their firsts. Her honest portraits intimate journey. Dacus lucidly takes the are tear-jerking but provacative. A solid listener into her personal life on the brief five out of five Rattlers. For those interested eleven-track album. The album explores life in hearing her perform live, Dacus will be experiences like first love, first heartbreak playing at the Paper Tiger on Sept. 20.

CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT 13

Kanye West – “Donda” The image above is one of the album covers that Kanye West teased throughout his creative process in writing “Donda.”

Painted by Louise Bourgeois, this piece is said to explore the relationship with her mother. The painting was released in 2007: the same year West’s mother died. In the final choosing, West officially chose a black, blank cover album to represents the void in his life after his mother’s death and his divorce with Kim Kardashian.

After an extended hiatus, the longawaited tribute album to his mother, Donda, was in the works. And so, fans anxiously awaited its release. What happened next was an unprecedented, dramatic album release with three live concerts. The first and second performances were at Mercedes Benz Stadium, but the latter was much improved. The third performance at Soldier Field stadium featured a recreation of West’s childhood home, an appearance from Marilyn Manson, a funeral procession and at the end of it all, a wedding. The album’s roll out was certainly strange, no doubt.

However, the concerts were undeniably symbolic performance art. Each show featured a different version of the album. In

a way, the album evolved steadily, even with opinions from Reddit and Discord groups.

Musically, several tracks like “Hurricane” and “Moon” leave the listener floating on Don Toliver and The Weeknd’s vocals. Other features include versatile musicians like DaBaby, Ariana Grande, Marilyn Manson, Lauryn Hill, Fivio Foreign and a featured song from Pop Smoke.

West also creates iconic lines, albeit cheesy at times. On “Lord I Need You,” West proves he can still hold a rap and drops one of the funniest lines in his discography.

In reference to his marriage with Kim Kardashian, West raps, “It’s the best collab since Taco Bell and KFC.” And then on “New Again,” he delivers this catchy bar: “If I hit you with a ‘W-Y-D?’ / You better not hit me with a ‘H-E-Y’/ It better be like ‘Hii’ with a bunch of I’s / Or ‘Heyyy’ with a bunch of Y’s.”

Yet, other tracks like “Come to Life” really shine through when played alongside the imagery of West’s live concerts. Flash back to the third concert at Soldier Field Stadium.

A veiled Kim Kardashian was walking toward a fire-blazing West and the audience struggled to hide their emotions when West painfully sang out about the faults in his life.

In those words, he sings, “You the air that I breathe, the ultra-ultralight beam / Brought a gift to Northie, all she want was Nikes.” Finally it comes together. His music and his imagery, like the kind at Soldier Field, become a wrenching jolt to the heart.

But the question still remains, is this album a dedication to his mother or is this an anthem to his estranged wife? Well, it’s both. Ultimately this album is West’s acceptance of moving on to the next stage of his life, just as it is about Donda’s passing on into the afterlife. It’s why he sings in “Jesus Lord,” “And if I talk to Christ, can I bring my mother back to life? / And if I die tonight, will I see her in the afterlife? (Jesus) / But back to reality, where everything’s a tragedy (Lord).” Four and a half Rattlers to West.

Tasty treats in the city: Mochinut donuts and I Love Churros SOPHIA KUSSEL CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Have a craving for something sweet but tired of the same old treats? Don’t buy a boring candy bar, or heaven forbid, eat a piece of mushy fruit. Instead, mix it up by going to these two new shops that serve some amazing desserts.

Mochinut – 5222 De Zavala Rd #328, San Antonio, TX 78249 First on the list is a little place called Mochinut. With 20 locations opened and 90 more branches in the works, Mochinut is “more than just a donut,” says their cutesy slogan. Mochinut serves Korean rice flour corndogs and mochi donuts.

Their Korean-styled, deep fried corndogs — currently trending on TikTok — include eccentric flavors like crunchy ramen, Flamin’ Hot Cheetos breading or potato bits, encasing a choice of either hot dog or mozzarella cheese.

The actual Mochinut is a popular brand of mochi donuts, which are an American Japanese fusion of naturally gluten-free tapioca or rice flour dough. Essentially, they’re a beautiful combination between delicious American donuts and chewy Japanese rice cakes. Their unique donut flavors include melon, matcha, Nutella, cheesecake, red velvet, ube, taro, yuza, milk pebble, black sesame and many more.

Additionally, their unusual shape — a Pon de Ring signature of eight connected

dough balls — creates an experience even more memorable.

The De Zavala location had its soft opening back in late August but will be temporarily closed for crucial equipment installation according to an Aug. 25

that San Antonio has some of the best places to find churros for sure. Also, pairing coffee with churros is mandatory.”

Well, now all informed St. Mary’s family will be able to live out their churro dreams when they visit the café, I Love Churros.

Photos by Sophia Kussel

Instagram post. Fortunately, they hope to be up and running in two weeks.

I Love Churros – 7007 Bandera Rd Unit 14, San Antonio, TX 78238 May Cleapmam, a sophomore political science major here at St. Mary’s, had this to say about the beloved churro.

“I personally love churros,” Cleapmam says. “They are definitely my number one comfort food. I can say with utmost certainty

Opened in late 2020, this chic café’s design invites audiences in with pink accents in their wicker chairs, their walls and even their spoons. Their pink accents also compliment the size of the small café with black and white striped wallpaper.

When ordering, the patron will be invited to choose from an assortment of gelatos, cakes, coffees and of course churros. Their gelato flavors include horchata, strawberry, vanilla

and chocolate. From “churritos” to frozen churros, I Love Churros brings individuality to their local business. Their “churritos,” or mini churros, are about one-third the length of their foot-long churro but come in small or large serving sizes. Their frozen churros option includes regular churros served with ice cream. Finally, once selecting a churro, guests can pair it with one of their assorted dipping sauces, including cajeta, vanilla and chocolate to name a few. It should be noted that they also serve delicious coffees, such as the horchata latte and their very own house coffee (suggested with no added sugar needed).

Their assortments also include crème brûlée, homemade flan and key lime pie — all with the perfect amount of sweetness.

But if coffee and desserts aren’t your speed, they also serve fruit juices such as agua fresca, Jarritos soda, non-alcoholic sangria and Mexican Coca-Cola. But if in the mood for something more chocolate-y, I Love Churros also serves Abuelita Mexicanstyle hot chocolate.

Overall, the atmosphere of the café is perfect for get-togethers of all sorts.

Fortunately, the location is rather close to campus. Closed on Mondays, their business hours are 2-9 p.m. Sunday to Thursday and 2-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

Mochinut and I Love Churros surely won’t disappoint. They’re perfect after a long day of classes or long week of studying.

14 SPORTS

EDITOR: DIDIER CADENA | @STMURATTLERNEWS | SEPT. 9, 2021

St. Mary’s athletes are ready to dominate their competition DIDIER CADENA SPORTS EDITOR

The fall semester has begun, which means it’s time for the highly anticipated fall season of many of St. Mary’s varsity sports.

After an athletic season that was interrupted

by COVID, which caused many sports to have shortened seasons, many teams were left hungry for a chance to get back into the flow of a normal season. This fall season is the first for many students on campus to see what the true St. Mary’s athletic experience is all about. Here is a look at what to expect for this fall season.

Women’s Golf tees off The women’s golf team is coming out of one of the best seasons in the program’s history. Last season they took the title for The NCAA D2 West Regional Championship.

The team ended up finishing third place in the National Championship, their highest finish ever. The Rattlers also ended the season winning two other tournaments.

This upcoming season, the Rattlers are ranked as the #5 team in the nation. They

start their season on Sept. 7 as they play in the Dallas Baptist University Women’s Invitational in Dallas.

Volleyball sets into a new era This season will be the program’s fortyfifth season and will be a season that brings back many experienced members of the team along with some fresh faces. This season will be head coach Laura Ulrich’s first season at St. Mary’s University. Ulrich was a member of the 30 under 30 Coaches List by the American Volleyball Coaches Association. The volleyball team finished with a record of 2-10 in their COVIDaffected season. The home opener for the Rattlers volleyball team is on Sept. 24 against the University of Texas at Tyler.

Women’s Soccer kicks off a new start This season will be Coach Kevin Driggs sophomore season. His first season was one that was affected by COVID and one where the Rattlers finished with a 5-6 record. This season brings back several players that are eager to compete. The Rattlers are ranked eighth in the Lonestar Conference. The women’s soccer home opener was on Sept. 5

against the University of West Florida. They lost the match 3-1.

Women’s Tennis serves to excite The Rattlers tennis squad is looking forward to having yet another successful campaign and the players are eager to compete once again, with a returning batch of players. The Rattlers finished last season with a record of 17-6. Their opener will be at the St. Mary’s University Invitational on Sept. 10.

Men’s Soccer slides into a new season This season for the men’s soccer team is one that brings back a unit of veterans that want to continue the success they have had over their past couple of seasons. In their COVID-affected season, the Rattlers finished with a 6-3-1 record. The men’s soccer team has continued to play at a high level and hopes to continue to break records. In the near future, they hope to once again compete for the Lonestar Conference Championship. Before COVID shortened their season, the men’s soccer team finished with an extraordinary record of 15-3-3 winning the Lonestar Conference

Tournament and made it all the way to the Sweet 16. They did this all while finishing with .786, their highest winning percentage since the program joined the NCAA. The Men’s Soccer home opener is on Sept. 9 against Palm Beach Atlantic University.

Men’s Golf on par for a great year The Men’s golf team is coming off a successful season in which they finished tenth in the NCAA Regional Tournament.

This season brings back a number of veterans who are hoping to once again compete and bring more success into the program. The Rattlers Golf team finished their season with one tournament win and four other tournaments in which they finished with top 10 finishes. The men’s golf team starts off their season on Sept. 27 at the Missouri Southern University Invitational.

Men’s Tennis hopes to ace the season The Rattlers tennis squad is looking to once again compete and have another successful season under their name. The tennis squad finished last season with a record of 14-5. Their opening game is at the St. Mary’s Invitational on Sept. 10.

Jeremiah Sanchez reaches out and hits the ball back to his oppenent . | Photo courtesy of Antonio Morano Photography Cian Foley slides toward the ball. | Photo courtesy of Antonio Morano Photography

Rattlers after a timeout. | Photo courtesy of Antonio Morano Photography

The Rattlers plan out their strategy for attack in a quick team huddle. | Photo Courtesy of Antonio Morano Photography

Ryan Dixon takes a swing. | Photo courtesy of Ron Smith

Rattlers celebrating with their trophy after winning the NCAA DII regional championship. | Photo courtesy of Rattler Athletics

The Rattlers celebrate after scoring a goal. | Photo courtesy of Rattler Athletics

SPORTS 15

SEPT. 9, 2021 | STMURATTLERNEWS.COM

University announces new plan for varsity STUNT program DIDIER CADENA SPORTS EDITOR

Coming soon to St. Mary’s University is the brand-new implementation of STUNT to its extensive varsity program. STUNT is a new athletics program that will soon commence in the 2022-2023 season.

Committee on Women’s Athletics identified STUNT to be added to their Emerging Sport for Women’s program, which aims to support the advancement of women’s sports to the NCAA championship status.

USA Cheer governs STUNT as a discipline of cheer. It has been around since 2010 and just celebrated its tenth

Courtesy of Rattler Athletics

STUNT is a form of cheer that focuses on the competition aspect of cheer and is one of the ways that USA Cheer can allow nearly 500,000 high school cheerleaders in the nation to continue their athletic experience.

It is one of the fastest-growing women’s sports in the nation, with over 100 universities already hosting programs. The

anniversary. STUNT changes the format of how a usual competitive cheer competition would take place. The formatting of the match is in a 45-60 minute competition that focuses on both the technical and athletic aspects of cheerleading.

Those parts would include partner stunts, pyramids, basket tosses, group

jumps and tumbling. STUNT incorporates the athletic aspects of cheer and recrafts the sport into an exciting four-quarter format.

The new format transforms normally short cheer performances into a series of intricate routines creating a competitive match that last for over an hour.

There are already three other universities in the Lone Star Conference that already have a STUNT program implemented making the head-to-head competitions a great way to spark some competition within the competing universities. The implementation of STUNT will create even more opportunities for female student athletes to embrace school spirit and showcase their athletic talents.

For St. Mary’s University, STUNT will be the university’s thirteenth varsity sport.

Its implementation comes just in time for the program to use the newly-renovated Bill Greehey Arena for competitions. This new sport is sure draw attention for the university’s athletics program and attract crowds of students and fans to the arena. St. Mary’s previously had a consistent cheer presence on campus, but it has been silent since 2018. Hopefully, the STUNT program can revive the cheer prescence on campus and encourage school spirit.

The arrival of STUNT provides a great opportunity for cheer to return in a new and powerful way. STUNT will be a new chapter in the history of St. Mary’s athletics and will hopefully continue the competitive and rich

nature of the university’s athletic programs while including more opportunities for

Courtesy of USA Cheer

current and future female student athletes.

In the months leading up to the start of the program, more information regarding tryouts as well as other details will be available. The search for the program’s firstever coach will also begin soon. Keep a look out for more news about the program in the upcoming months. With the arrival of innovative programs like STUNT the future looks bright for St. Mary’s athletics.

Esports announces tryout dates for gamers this fall semester The esports program is currently undergoing tryouts to scout potential players for the Call of Duty and Fortnite teams.

Additional tryouts for other games will be held later in the semester. These tryouts are open to all full-time students whether they be undergraduate, graduate, law students or incoming freshmen.

Students looking to try out must have a minimum grade point average of 2.0 and must currently have the game they are trying out for downloaded onto their PC or console and updated to the latest version of the game. The account that potential players are using for tryouts must not be banned and needs to be in good standing. Students can have the ranked requirements for the game they choose if there is a rank ladder in place for the game. Finally, students must have

open availability to participate in tryouts, whether that be weekends or weekdays. The commitment to tryout time will mimic the time that potential players are expected to commit to during the regular season.

It is important to remember that these tryouts are aimed at measuring potential players’ ability to fit into different types of team competitions. Players are evaluated on how they might stack up against competitors and their own potential teammates. Students interested in the program must be prepared for anything because if they try out for a certain role, they could be given another secondary role if there is a strong group of applicants. More tryouts for both Call of Duty: Cold War and for the Fortnite team will be held soon so those who are interested should expect news on team selection.

The esports program is currently in their sophomore season, with their first season last year being a part of an important new page

in St. Mary’s athletics history. The esports program is the twelfth intercollegiate sport that the university offers and was the first esports program in San Antonio at its time of inception. The program is a member of two different esports organizations, the National Association of Collegiate Esports (NACE) and Tespa. In these two organizations, the esports athletes can compete online against student athletes from other universities and colleges in a variety of different games, such as Rocket League, League of Legends, Overwatch, and many other games. Last season, both the Fortnite and Rainbow Six Siege teams were able to qualify and compete in the playoff tournaments for their respective games.

The implementation of the esports program has brought many new and exciting things to see on campus. One of the more notable visual differences is the new Spectrum Esports Arena. The arena is

Esports coach Kaitlin Teniente pratices with her team. | Photo courtesy of Robin Jerstad

Courtesy of Rattler Athletics

Courtesy of Rattler Athletics

DIDIER CADENA SPORTS EDITOR

part of the partnership between St. Mary’s University and Spectrum Enterprises Inc. This beautiful new arena is located on the second floor of the University Center right in the heart of campus. The arena not only houses the esports team equipment but also provides opportunities for students to compete in forms of competitive gaming through intramural sports.

The esports program has excited many students because it gives them the opportunity to flex their gaming skills.

It also signals a shift towards innovative opportunities for the university. Many students are enthusiastic about the opportunity of using the facilities for their extracurricular organizations, intramural opportunities and more. The future is bright for the esports program so be sure to become a part of school history and remember to keep an eye out for more opportunities to join the esports team.

16 FEATURES

EDITOR: LARRY RODRIGUEZ-SHEA | @STMURATTLERNEWS | SEPT. 9, 2021

Artwork by freshman art education major Gabriella Guajardo

Students share what it means to be a member of the St. Mary’s community ADRIANNA MIRABAL, ELIZABETH PEREZ, LARRY RODRIGUEZ-SHEA MULTIMEDIA EDITOR, COPY EDITOR AND MANAGING EDITOR

This fall, a wave of life has washed over the campus. Students have returned, faculty is back in the classroom and even new cats have been seen walking around campus.

Some students around campus have been experiencing things for the first time or are making memories they haven’t had in a while. As the St. Mary’s community finds itself again, students are left wondering and rediscovering what being a student at St. Mary’s means to them.

Some students have never even set foot on campus before. These students are getting used to many new feelings; being independent, having their own spaces and learning what it means to be a college student again. For freshman international and global studies major, Andres Gonzalez, being a student here means being a strong member of the community and giving back to make the world better.

“For me personally being a St. Mary’s student means to just have a good head on your shoulders and have a good moral compass that guides you to actually make [a] change in the world,” Gonzalez said.

“St. Mary’s [is an institution] that strives to create strong young men and women that seek to change the world for the better and make something of themselves.”

Some students are coming back for what will be some of their last months on campus. These students have been able to experience what it’s like being a Rattler and know what student life on campus is like.

“

For me personally being a St. Mary’s student means to just have a good head on your shoulders and have a good moral compass that guides you to actually make [a] change in the world,” Andres Gonzalez freshman international and global studies major

Junior accounting major Isabella Mulwani is one of such students. She has found a circle of people she can count on at St. Mary’s and feels that for her St. Mary’s is real community.

“St. Mary’s has represented family and community for me. I have met a lot of people that I feel truly love and appreciate me,” Mulwani said.

The same is true for seniors who are

enjoying what are their last couple months before joining the ‘real world.’

Students in this position will soon be reflecting on what it meant to be a Rattler rather than thinking about what it means to be one. Senior music education major Denzel Rubio-Gomez is a student in this position.

RubioGomez feels that for him St. Mary’s is a place of support and multifaceted growth.

“St. Mary’s means a holistic approach to everything.

From learning to community engagement and service,” RubioGomez said. “I appreciate that there are plenty of opportunities to be involved in [and] outside of your field of study. St. Mary’s not only supports your academic e n d e a v o r s

but your personal endeavors too.”

There are also those students caught in the middle of the college experience and they offer a unique perspective of St. Mary’s.

Sophomore students are getting close to wrapping up their college careers but are still far from that next step.

This can be a stressful situation to navigate because there are lots of things that students are ‘supposed to have done’ and be ready to do when junior year rolls around. For s ophomore

music education major Savannah Palmer, being a student at St. Mary’s means having a safe place to feel at home.

“St. Mary’s is a place for me to feel welcome, accepted and cared about,” Palmer said. “Everyone is welcome no matter what your interests are, your culture, your background, you are accepted and welcome here. It is a safe place. It is a place that I love.”

Many students learn some of their most important life lessons during their college years which is is exactly why choosing a university is such an impactful decision.

Choosing to be a student at St. Mary’s can mean many things and for sophomore psychology major Brandon Marinelarena it means that he has taken steps on a journey to better himself in a place he can feel at home.

“

Everyone is welcome no matter what your interests are, your culture, your background, you are accepted and welcome here. It is a safe place. It is a place that I love.”

Savannah Palmer sophomore music education major

“Being a St. Mary’s student to me means that I get to become the best version of myself while receiving a top-tier edication,” Marinelarena said. “The incredible faculty and students make San Antonio my home away from home and I couldn’t ask for more.”

At the center of this community, and what sets St. Mary’s apart from other academic institutions, is the Marianist charism, which emphasizes its pillar of community. That includes fostering an environment that is open to diversity, equity and inclusion. It also means creating a community that is built on forming strong bonds and acceptance. Embodying these values is something that St. Mary’s students do well. Every student, regardless of where they are in their college experience, is part of the larger history of community that St. Mary’s provides. Whether a student be an incoming freshman visiting campus for the first time, a sophomore transfer student just starting their St. Mary’s experience or a senior preparing for life as an alumni, the sense of community on campus is one that students can treasure both during their college years and long after graduation.

With a community made up of so many unique individuals, the future of St. Mary’s is bright and ever-changing for the better.

Graphic by Adrianna Mirabal and Larry Rodriguez-Shea