[The Stute] February 14, 2025 (Issue 17, Volume CXXII)
Even if you don’t have a valentine, go spend it with the people you love.
Happy Valentine’s Day
Planes crash in D.C. and Philadephia
BY SERENA PANUCCI, CONTRIBUTOR
Air travel is very often seen as one of the safest modes of transportation, but when disasters occur, they serve as a reminder of the many risks involved. In the span of just a few days, two devastating plane crash es left many Americans shocked. These two tragic incidents, which took place in Philadelphia and Wash ington, D.C., took dozens of lives and left investigators searching for answers.
On January 29, the first of the two plane crashes happened in D.C., as Amer ican Airlines Flight 5342 collided with a Black Hawk helicopter, resulting in a crash that left no survivors among the approximately 60 passengers on board. The flight departed from Wichita, Kansas, and was en route to D.C.’s Reagan National Airport. The helicopter involved was reported to be flying about 200 ft higher than it should have been at the time of the crash. This collision was the first major U.S. commercial air crash in the United States in approximately 15 years since February 2009. According to CBS News, we currently know that only one air traffic control worker
We write Stevens history
A
Vice President of Operations Mitchell
BY JEREMIAH CHINWENDU, MANAGING EDITOR
The 2025-2026 Student Government Association (SGA) saw its first contested presidential election in five years. Weeks of debates, social events, and campaigning culminated in a highly anticipated election night, where students gathered to watch the results unfold. The heated race featured passionate speeches, social media campaigns, and a series of debates that highlighted key student concerns, from tuition costs to campus in-
clusivity initiatives. On January 17, Alexander Stanczak and Shane Mitchell were inaugurated as President and Vice President of Operations (VPO).
Alexander Stanczak, a 4/5 Mechanical Engineering major, has been involved in the SGA since his first semester at Stevens. He served as a First-Year Senator before taking on the role of Vice President of Student Interests and later VPO under former President Paulina Georgoutsos. He emphasized that one of his key motivations for running was to provide younger mem-
bers of the SGA the same opportunities he had to form lasting friendships and leave their mark on campus. His main goal as president is to improve student life, ensuring that new students can fully integrate into the community, make meaningful connections, and have their voices heard.
Shane Mitchell, a 2/4 Computer Science major, also began his SGA career as a First-Year Senator. He recalled first becoming interested in leadership during an internal Senate bonding event where he was paired with Stanczak, who was
then serving as VPO. “I really admired his drive to make a positive change, and the supportive dynamic that existed within SGA leadership was apparent to me,” Mitchell said. His experience as a Senator and later as Speaker of the Senate helped him develop an understanding of the organization’s internal structure and how best to support his peers. Together, Stanczak and Mitchell centered their campaign around encouraging student involvement, with three main objectives:
SEE SGA PAGE 2
look into the Samuel C. Williams’s MLK Jr. exhibit
BY JEREMIAH CHINWENDU, MANAGING EDITOR
In celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy, the Samuel C. Williams Library (SCWL) has curated a multimedia exhibit highlighting the civil rights leader’s impact and the history of Black students at Stevens. This exhibit is being held in the Mary Stuart room until February 14, and serves as a way for people to educate themselves on the impact of Black history on Stevens. As part of the campus-wide MLK Week of Service, this exhibit serves as a powerful reminder of Dr. King’s teachings and the importance of historical representation. The exhibit was made possible through the dedicated work of the library staff. Linda Beninghove, the Library Director, served as the project manager, ensuring the seamless execution of the exhibit. Archivist Ted Houghtaling, Head of Archives & Special Collections Leah Loscutoff, and Research & Instructional Services Librarian Court-
SEE MLK PAGE 2
ICE raids local Newark store without warrant
BY EVAN PAPAGEORGE, HEAD COPY EDITOR
On February 3, the City of Hoboken’s Office of Emergency Management (OEM) alerted residents to potential hazards along Sinatra Drive. Reports indicated falling rocks near 9th Street and Sinatra Drive, prompting the temporary closure of the western sidewalk between 8th and 9th Streets. The City installed barriers to block off the impacted area.
Marci Rubin, Hoboken’s Senior Public Information Assistant, provided further details, stating that the OEM responded to reports of falling rocks along Castle Point on Sinatra Drive near 9th Street. Out of an abundance of caution, approximately 40-50 feet of the western sidewalk along the cliff were temporarily closed to allow Stevens, the property owner, to have engineers inspect the cliffside and implement any necessary measures. Residents were encouraged to cross safely at existing crosswalks ahead of and on each side of the closure. This incident is not isolated. In June 2024, a sinkhole emerged on Sinatra
NEWS (2-4) Meet SGA President and Vice President Learn more about the new President and Vice President of the SGA and their initiatives.
Drive, leading to the installation of barricades along certain waterfront areas. Engineers conducted preliminary reviews, and barriers were placed in zones requiring further investigation for potential repairs. While there were no reports of damages, the City prioritized caution to ensure resident safety.
Councilwoman Tiffanie Fisher provided updates in November 2024, noting progress in removing some barricades. The barriers near Shipyard Park were awaiting final engineering approval, while those near the skate park on Sinatra Drive required more extensive work and remained in place.
The recurring issues along Sinatra Drive have raised concerns about the structural integrity of the waterfront infrastructure. Investigations have pointed to significant erosion of the decades-old concrete seawall beneath portions of the waterfront walkway and road. This erosion compromises the area’s stability, necessitating comprehensive rehabilitation efforts. In response to these challenges, the City of Hoboken announced plans on Jan-
FEATURE (6-7) Happy Valentine’s Day! Discover the happy couples that met at Stevens and check out our annual Valentine Grams! SCIENCE (8) Animals mating? Broken hearts? Making babies? Read about what’s going on in the world of science.
PULSE (12) Read answers from the Stevens community to our weekly Roving Reporter, plus solve our weekly puzzle and sudoku.
uary 17 to rehabilitate and stabilize Sinatra Drive. This decision followed a monthslong investigation after the sinkhole near Sybil’s Cave. The planned rehabilitation addresses the identified erosion and prevents future incidents that could endanger residents and visitors.
The situation underscores the delicate balance between urban development and environmental factors. The waterfront’s proximity to the Hudson River means that structures are constantly exposed to natural elements, which can accelerate wear and tear. Regular maintenance and timely interventions are crucial to ensuring the longevity and safety of these public spaces.
The City asks residents to stay informed through official channels and adhere to safety advisories. The City’s proactive approach reflects a commitment to public safety. The community’s cooperation and understanding remain vital as investigations continue and repairs occur.
The recent incidents along Sinatra Drive remind us of the importance of in-
BY JOSEPHINE CHOONG, STAFF WRITER
On January 23, a dozen Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents came unannounced and without a warrant to Ocean Seafood Depot, a Newark store. While eight people were initially rounded up, three of them had no doc-
umentation and were detained. The Newark raid sparked anger and unrest within the community.
In an interview with CBS, the owner of Ocean Seafood Depot reported how the ICE agents came during the morning and when the manager attempted to show his veteran’s card, the agents wouldn’t accept it.
David Salinas, one of the employees arrested, remembers feeling anxious and full of uncertainty. Other employees noted that the ICE agents were “heavily armed,” came unannounced, and blocked off all entrances and exits. They separated the Spanish-speaking employees
SEE ICE PAGE 3
Sweets and Solidarity: a bake sale for refugee relief
BY JEREMIAH CHINWENDU, MANAGING EDITOR
Conflicts are unfolding across the world, some capturing national headlines while others go unnoticed. When confronted with reports of atrocities beyond our borders, many feel a deep sense of helplessness, unsure of how to make a difference. To take action, the National Society for Black Engineers (NSBE) and the Black Student Union (BSU) are collaborating to host the Sweets and Solidarity bake sale. Happening February 21, this event is meant to raise funds to support relief
efforts in Sudan and Congo—two nations deeply affected by war and political turmoil.
The Sudanese Civil War, which erupted in April 2023, continues to devastate the nation, leaving its citizens struggling with severe resource shortages. The conflict is fought between two powerful military factions: the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), commanded by Janjaweed leader Mohamed Hamdan “Hemedti” Dagalo, along with their respective allies. “In Congo, the M23 rebel group has taken over Goma where civilians have taken refuge. Hospitals are overrun and there has been an influx of casualties and displacement,” says Adrian Oakley, programs chair of NSBE. The participating organizations are aiming to raise $1000 through this fundraiser and the proceeds will go to the Sudanese American Physician Association, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), and the International Rescue Committee. These organizations provide healthcare resources, food, and other necessities to citSEE BAKE PAGE 3
DELIVERY BOY.........................................JONATHAN LAI ‘28
Staff & Contributors
Serena Panucci
Josephine Choong
Jeylan Jubran
Erin McGee
Disha Gohil
Nicholas Smith
Martina Franz
Madison Heller
Abby Thomas
Prisha Vagvala
Kevin Castner Jr.
Charlie Beall
Hima Thummala
Jack Scherban
Stephen Pachucki
Emily Martinez
NOTICE A MISTAKE?
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was managing the helicopters and planes from the Reagan National Airport at the time of the collision, a job that is normally meant to be done by two people. In an interview with CBS News, Robert Sumwalt, a former chairman of the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), said authorities are still investigating whether the insufficient staffing played a role in the collision. However, a shortage in staffing of air traffic control towers is not uncommon. Around 90 percent, or approximately 285 out of the 313, air traffic control facilities around the country have been operating below the recommended staffing level for years, and in an interview with CNN News, an air tower controller in Northern California claims that employees are forced to “6-day work weeks working overtime every week.”
While investigators continued to examine the role of the exact reasons for the D.C. crash and while families grieved, another tragedy unfolded just two days later in Philadelphia, taking more
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boosting student-faculty interaction, revitalizing campus life, and promoting student representation in decision-making. One of their most prominent initiatives is enhancing weekend programming to engage students who stay on campus. “We want to provide financial incentives for clubs that host weekend events,” Mitchell explained, highlighting an ongoing collaboration with Vice President of Finance Arthur Serra. Additionally, they plan to organize SGA-sponsored festivals, bringing multiple student organizations together for large-scale weekend activities. Beyond the executive pair, an appointed cabinet is working to implement these initiatives. Vice President of Academic Af fairs Christina Alexandrov aims to strengthen student-faculty in teractions and expand research opportunities. Vice President of Finance Arthur Serra is focused on supporting student organiza tions and funding capital improve ments. Vice President of Student Interests Sebastian Sztolberg is working to revitalize the com mittee on student interest to pro vide more support for clubs. Vice President of Relations Michael Moschello seeks to enhance alum ni engagement and foster better communication with the Board of Trustees. Finally, Secretary Jeylan Jubran is committed to increas
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lives and deepening the concerns about aviation safety for our country.
The plane that crashed on January 31, a Learjet 55, was a medical jet transporting a pediatric patient who was later identified to be 11-year-old Valentina Guzman Murillo. The plane was carrying six passengers, including some of Valentina’s family and doctors, all of whom died in the crash. Additionally, several people on the ground received injuries from falling debris, amounting to around at least 25 people injured.
The plane was en route to Springfield-Branson National Airport in Missouri, with its final destination being in Mexico. It took off from Northeast Philadelphia Airport at around 6 p.m. on that Friday and was said to have climbed about 1500 ft in the air,
only less than a minute before it started rapidly descending and eventually crashed.
Although the cause of this crash has not yet been confirmed, investigations are still ongoing to determine the reasons, according to U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy’s interview with NBC News. “We have agreed to be as transparent as possible with information as it comes out,” he says.
The two tragic plane crashes have left many people grieving and are raising serious questions about the safety of aviation. As investigations continue, officials and the public are both seeking answers to prevent similar disasters in the future. Whether the reason is staff shortages, mechanical failures, or other factors, these tragedies serve as a reminder of the importance of safety measures in air travel.
and fostering lasting relationships within the organization.
A key strategy for increasing participation is improving feedback collection. Mitchell shared how they incorporated feedback collection into the Take Your Professor Out (TYPO) program application, allowing students to voice opinions while requesting meal vouchers for professor meetings.
“Incorporating feedback collection into forms students already fill out may increase the amount of feedback we receive,” he said.
Transparency and outreach are also priorities. “We’re making an effort to keep Stevens more informed about what SGA is working on through programming like our first-ever press conference and a new social media strategy,” Mitchell said. The team is updating the DuckLink website to serve as a
about SGA initiatives and provide input.
Recognizing the importance of diverse student voices, they plan to strengthen collaboration with club leaders. “We’ll be contacting and collaborating with club leaders to ensure our actions benefit the student body at large,” Mitchell stated. Looking ahead, Stanczak envisions growing student involvement in campus activities. “One of the major goals that SGA is working toward is increased student participation across all aspects of campus,” he said. Through advocacy and improved awareness, he hopes to foster a culture where students feel empowered to shape their community.
With a strong leadership team and commitment to engagement, the 2025-2026 SGA aims to create a more connected and vibrant uni-
ney Walsh played key roles in researching, designing, and curating materials.
A critical component of the exhibit is an online research guide created by Walsh, which provides additional resources about Dr. King and the broader civil rights movement. This guide connects students to relevant books, e-books, websites, and student organizations that uphold Dr. King’s vision of racial equality. Additionally, a looping video of Dr. King’s Nobel Prize speech in Oslo, Norway, provides visitors with an immersive historical experience.
The selection of materials for the exhibit involved extensive discussions among the library staff about the story they aimed to tell. The focus extended beyond Dr. King’s legacy to include the history of Black students at Stevens. One of the exhibit’s central themes is the formation of the Black Student Union (BSU) in 1968, shortly after Dr. King’s assassination. However, as Houghtaling noted, gaps exist in the university’s historical records regarding BSU’s early years, underscoring the challenges of preserving student life in institutional archives.
To bridge these gaps, the Ar-
chives & Special Collections team actively seeks contributions from alumni and students. One significant recent addition to the collection is the James Braxton Papers, which document the experiences of one of Stevens’ first Black graduates. Braxton, who completed his degree in 1937, faced racial barriers in the field of engineering but went on to make significant contributions to urban planning and the Civil Rights Movement. His story provides valuable context to the broader narrative of Black history at Stevens.
One of the major challenges in setting up the exhibit was the scarcity of historical documentation regarding early Black student experiences. Loscutoff emphasized the importance of outreach efforts to encourage current students to engage with and contribute to the Archives. The “Voices from Castle Point” oral history project was launched to capture underrepresented perspectives, including those of the BSU’s first president, Ronald West ‘71. His interview will soon be added to the archive, offering a first-hand account of student activism at Stevens. Additionally, Walsh encountered difficulties in sourcing public-domain images of Dr. King for the exhibit. As librarians committed to ethical research practices, they ensured that all visual
materials adhered to copyright guidelines, using images from the Library of Congress and other verified sources.
Beninghove hopes that students and faculty will take away a deeper understanding of Dr. King’s lasting influence and recognize the wealth of resources available through the library. Walsh encourages visitors to explore the research guide, watch Dr. King’s speeches, and delve into the primary sources available in the Archives & Special Collections department.
This exhibit is more than just a display—it aligns with the library’s mission to support critical thinking, inclusivity, and historical awareness. Libraries, as Beninghove emphasized, play a crucial role in fostering informed and engaged communities. By curating exhibits like this, SCWL ensures that underrepresented voices are acknowledged and that students can connect with history in a meaningful way.
Dr. King’s teachings remain deeply relevant to the Stevens community today. As Loscutoff noted, his message of love, inclusion, and justice serves as a guide for building a more equitable society. By preserving and sharing these histories, SCWL contributes to an ongoing dialogue about race, representation, and the power of education.
PHOTO COURTESY OF YOUTUBE.COM
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frastructure maintenance in urban planning. As Hoboken continues to grow and evolve, ensuring the safety and stability of its public spaces must remain a priority. The City’s efforts to address these challenges demonstrate a dedication to preserving the well-being of its residents and the integrity of its infrastructure.
other community stores like Joey No Nuts Cafe.
izens in Sudan and Congo. NSBE and BSU are collaborating with Hudson Dorms for this event, and plans are being made to include
Many members of NSBE and BSU are going to be involved in baking, tabling, and other roles, but support from the Stevens and Hoboken communities contribute to the event’s success. Beyond raising funds, Sweets and Soli-
darity aims to foster a sense of community and collective action. In a world where conflicts can feel overwhelming, this event is a reminder that change can begin beyond borders with individual efforts—whether through donating, spreading awareness, or simply staying informed.
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and demanded to show identification. “I never imagined it would happen because we thought that in these times they were going after criminals or people who have some kind of prior, no?” Salinas stated. While he illegally crossed the US border in 2021, he says he has never committed a crime beyond the entry.
Salinas and the others were taken to Elizabeth Detention Center. On January 24, ICE informed Salinas’ loved ones about Salinas’ $10,000 bond. Thanks to donations from Salinas’ co-workers, relatives, and friends, Salinas was released on January 27. His co-worker, Robinson Sanchez, was also allowed to leave. Both were given notices to appear in court. However, the third co-worker, Salinas’ uncle, overstayed his visa. He is currently kept in detention and placed in deportation proceedings.
ICE called the raid a “routine operation” that was made in response to a tip and said it was unrelated to any initiatives of the new administration. In just nine days, ICE arrested over 7,400 people and marginally increased enforcement. Furthermore, ICE officials have been directed to arrest at least 1,200 to 1,500 people a day. However, there is a lack of details about where many of the arrests occurred, how many had criminal records, and how many have been detained or released. In response to the raid, Newark’s mayor, Ras J. Baraka, stated that it was a violation of the Fourth Amendment to the Constitution. “Newark will not stand by idly while people are being unlawfully terrorized,” Baraka proclaimed. “I will be holding a press conference in alliance with partners ready and willing to defend and protect civil and human rights. Details to come.” Furthermore, New Jersey’s
senators, Cory Booker and Andy Kim, stated how the raid sowed fear within the communities and that they will continue to work with Barkaka to ensure that New Jerseyians are safe and that their rights are protected. Meanwhile, Hoboken’s mayor, Ravi S. Bhalla, also issued a statement regarding the ICE raids. He reminded citizens that the Hoboken Police Department won’t assist in unlawfully detaining community members and won’t cooperate with ICE if it comes without a legal warrant.
On January 29, an email was sent to the Stevens community discussing the possibility that ICE agents may conduct more raids. If ICE agents do approach you, Stevens’ protocol is to stay calm and professional. Then, explain to the agent about the University policy to immediately contact the General Counsel and Chief of Stevens’ Campus Police. Call those individuals immediately and verify the agents’ credentials and their warrant.
If an ICE agent claims urgent circumstances for their immediate entry, don’t interfere, but you aren’t required to give consent. Furthermore, if they ask for information regarding a member of Stevens’ community, including where they are located, refer them to the Campus Police and the Office of General Counsel. Moreover, Stevens and its employers are required to comply with the federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), which, unless certain circumstances occur, protects the privacy of a student’s educational record.
The offices of the Campus Police and the Office of General Counsel are available on a 24/7 basis. For the Campus Police, contact Chief Timothy Griffin using the police dispatch number 201216-5105 or through tgriffin@ stevens.edu. Furthermore, for the Office of General Counsel, contact Kathy Schulz through text or call at 212-677-5370 or through kschulz1@stevens.edu.
PHOTO COURTESY NBCNEWS.COM
PHOTO COURTESY OF DUCKLINK.STEVENS.EDU
In celebration of Black History Month, The Stute, in partnership with the Office of Student Culture and Belonging, proudly highlights the
FEBRUARY SPOTLIGHT
Black History Month
contributions of Black administrators who shape our university’s future. These individuals play a vital role in fostering an inclusive and dynamic
Dr. Takeem L. Dean
What is your role on campus, and how long have you been here?
Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs, 2 years and 2 months. What does Black History Month mean to you?
While I celebrate Black History every day, during its designated month, it allows for a peak into the window of excellence, legacy, and the impact Black/African-American people had and continue to have on the world.
What initiatives or projects are you most proud of being involved in?
I am most proud of our work to celebrate and recognize Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s lifelong impact on the world. This initiative went from a day to a week-long celebration. It is one of the most attended and impactful events on campus.
LaToyia Carter
What is your role on campus, and how long have you been here?
In my seven years, 11 months tenue as the primary point of contact for the VP Office of Facilities and Campus Operations, I provide executive administrative support to the VP and Facilities Operations support campus-wide, while also coordinating departmental events to foster morale and camaraderie. My responsibilities extend to serving as an HR recruiter and leading special projects as assigned. Beyond my role in the VP Office, I have taken the initiative to establish an affinity group aimed at building a sense of community among Black
campus community through leadership, advocacy, and innovation. This series will spotlight their achievements, journeys, and impact on Ste-
ADMINISTRATORS
staff and strengthening connections between black staff, students, and faculty. I co-hosted the Women of Color Connect event for two years and have proudly served as the Advisor to the Black Student Union (BSU) for two consecutive years. Additionally, I have been an active member of the MLK Week of Service Planning Committee. I continue to play a leadership role in formalizing the university’s first-ever Staff Advisory Council, aligning with Goal 7 of the Stevens Strategic 10-Year Plan (20222032). In 2020, I had the privilege of serving on The President’s Task Force on Equity and Inclusion Excellence, where I contributed to examining and enhancing Stevens’ commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion through thoughtful recommendations for improvement.
What does Black History Month mean to you?
Being Black is an identity I fully embrace and take great pride in. I love the beautiful diversity within our community—our varying shades of melanin, unique hair textures and styles, bold fashion sense, forward-thinking mindset, brilliance, and resilience. Despite the challenges placed upon us simply because of the color of our skin, we continue to rise, innovate, and make significant contributions to society.
Black History Month is a time when we can be BLACK, BOLD AND PROUD!! It’s a time to honor and celebrate those contributions— both past and present—that have helped shape our culture, community, America and the world. It provides an opportunity to reflect, learn our rich history beyond what
vens and beyond. By sharing their stories, we honor their dedication and amplify the voices that continue to inspire progress. Join us through-
out the month as we recognize these remarkable leaders and their commitment to excellence, diversity, and student success at Stevens.
was not taught in schools, and recognize the profound impact of Black excellence. For me, it is also a call to action. As I am committed to fostering inclusion and equity, I embrace this month not just as a moment of celebration, but as a reminder to continue my work in creating meaningful change—on and off campus— through service, advocacy, and community-building all year long. What initiatives or projects are you most proud of being involved in?
I am most proud of my involve
ment in the Women of Color Connect events, serving as the Advisor for the Black Student Union (BSU), and leading the newly formed Stevens Staff Advisory Council. These initiatives have reinforced my commitment to driving positive change within the community while also deepening my understanding of Stevens’ landscape. They have allowed me to identify areas for improvement, enhance engagement, and foster meaningful collaborations with colleagues across the university—connections that may not have naturally formed within the scope of my formal role. More importantly, these efforts have allowed me to do what I am most passionate about— advocating for those who are underrepresented or underserved, whether due to race, gender, or position held within the university. Through this work, I have had the opportunity to help shape the culture at Stevens, fostering a more inclusive and supportive community.
Christina Davis
What is your role on campus, and how long have you been here?
I work as a Resident Director operating within the Office of Residen-
tial Education. I oversee the para professional staff and community operations in the UCC Harries Tow er along with the Stevens Spotlight LLC and 1036 Park Stevens Chefs LLC too. I am approaching my twoyear anniversary at Stevens in June! What does Black History Month mean to you?
Black History Month highlights the multi-talented individuals that utilized their strength, determination and unwavering dedication to stimulate change, advocacy, and support for the people of diverse communities. The month provides the world with the large sense of pride that I feel daily as a black woman knowing that my predecessors paved the way to instill greatness within me today. Overall, the month invigorates my commitment to life-long learning and utilizing my resources to be an advocate for others to best serve underrepresent communities.
What initiatives or projects are you most proud of being involved in?
At Stevens, I am most proud of being able to assist and or support multicultural organizations on campus through outreach, presence, and programming. I have co-facilitated two POC-Affinity gatherings, supported my peers program initiatives through organization and in-person support, and as former chair of the RA Recruitment & Selection process I incorporated active anti-bias training for participants to sharpen our selection integrity. Outside of Stevens, I am a Pace University Alumni and an active member of Black Women In Stem (BWIS or The Wiz) resource group and bi-semesterly panel. I received my Master of Science degree in Data Science, now
port, and advocate for community togetherness, livelihood, and betterment.
Christopher Gladden
What is your role on campus, and how long have you been here?
STEP/EOF Assistant Director and Counselor and Deputy Title IX Coordinator. I’ve been here at Stevens for 1 year. What does Black History Month mean to you?
Black History Month is a time to honor and celebrate Black individuals’ contributions, achievements, and resilience. It’s a reminder to reflect on history, learn from it, and continue the work toward equality and justice. It’s about recognizing Black excellence and the ongoing journey toward a more inclusive society. What initiatives or projects are you most proud of being involved in?
I’m particularly proud of being involved in the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Oratorical Contest here at Stevens, now in its third year. Each year, it continues to grow and improve, creating a space for individuals to honor Dr. King’s legacy through the power of words. The contest is more than just an event— it’s a meaningful way to unite the community, fostering a shared spirit of unity, understanding, and social justice in Dr. King’s image. Seeing how it has evolved and positively impacted participants and attendees alike has been incredibly rewarding.
LATOYIA CARTER CHRISTINA DAVIS CHRISTOPHER GLADDEN
Men’s and Women’s Basketball fall to Arcadia in MAC Freedom play
BY CAMRYN WINANT, SPORTS EDITOR
On February 5, the men’s and women’s basketball teams went up against Arcadia University, with the men’s team playing at home and the women’s team playing at Glenside, PA. Despite their best efforts, both teams were knocked down by the Knights, the men’s Ducks losing their nine-game winning streak with a narrow loss of 63-66. With notable play from graduate student Mike Goodall, sophomores Tommy Scholl and Kyle Maddison, and senior Jack Spellman, the men’s team was able to end with 63 points, just barely falling short of Arcadia. They started off strong, with Scholl opening with a pair of layups, Goodall with a three-pointer, and Maddison with another layup. Following that, shots from
sophomore Harmehar Chhabra, graduate student Lucas Green, and Spellman narrowed Arcadia’s lead to two. Two free throws from Maddison, a three from Scholl, a jump hook from Chhabra, and a layup from Goodall tied the game at 30. Junior Brendan Couglan and Scholl both hit layups near the end of the first half, but Arcadia still managed to pull ahead with a 36-35 lead. The Ducks’ efforts continued in the second half with a Chhabra free throw, a layup from Scholl, and a three from Goodall which put them in their largest lead of the game for a few minutes. Green and Goodall both shot threes, with Goodall following up with another three. Layups from Spellman brought the game to a tie at 55, and despite efforts from Spellman, Goodall, Maddison, and Scholl, the Ducks were not successful in passing the
Knights’ lead.
The women’s game opened with a strong lead, with shots from juniors Leyla Castro, Audrey Kehoe, Dorothy Loffredo, Olivia Schubiger, and senior Lucy Alberici in the first quarter. Notably two sets of threes made by Castro, which pushed the Ducks to a 17-13 lead by the second quarter. Alberici and Loffredo both made jump shots early in the second, a layup from Castro and a three by junior Isabella Duval set the score gap to eight, and Arcadia was scoreless for roughly four minutes. The Ducks ended the second with a six-point lead.
Early in the second half, Arcadia outscored Stevens 8-0, tying the game at 37 and holding the Ducks scoreless for four minutes. Stevens fell in the third quarter, ending with only seven points, letting the Knights take
Men’s Fencing takes two successful wins at the MACFA Group B Round Robin
BY KAI WONG, SPORTS WRITER
The men’s fencing team hosted the MACFA Group B Round Robin on February 9. They came out with two wins against Hunter College and Yeshiva University and one loss against New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT).
They started the day strong against Hunter, with the Ducks going 9-0 in sabre and epee. Firstyears Spencer Depew and Chinli Ong both went 1-0 in sabre, with six forfeit victories for the Ducks.
Graduate student Erik Marran and senior Jose Martinez-Ponce went 3-0 in epee, followed by senior Nicholas Smith, sophomore Noah Tumibay, and junior Andrew Yurovchak, who all took one win in epee. They ended their match with Hunter with an 8-1 win in foil. Junior Aden Vishnevsky and firstyear Alan Hu took three wins, and junior Nick Reznick and senior
Rocco Matthews each took one.
The finished Hunter with a final score of 26-1. They went up against NJIT next, Reznick getting three wins, Matthews getting two wins, and first-year Dev Badlani getting one final win for the foil group, ending that category with a score of 6-3. Tumibay and Smith both landed a pair of wins in epee, followed by Yurovchak with one, ending the epee group with a score of 5-4. In sabre, both Depew and senior Colin Mahoney landed wins for their category, but despite their best efforts and wins in foil and epee, Stevens fell to NJIT with a final score of 14-13.
Ending the day with matches against Yeshiva, the Ducks had a perfect score against them, with Ong, Depew, and sophomore Tyler Kometani earning three wins in sabre. To end the day, both epee and foil went 7-2 as their final scores. First-year Graham Shambarger and Vishnevsky went 3-0
in foil. The final win was notched by senior Evan Peneiras. Finally, sophomore Riley Parker and junior Esat Adiloglu both got two victories in epee, being led by Marran who went 3-0. These almost-perfect scores pushed the Ducks to a
a three-point lead on the overall game. The Ducks ended strong with a jump shot from Schubiger and a pair of threes from Castro, but the Knights pulled through with 27 points in the final quarter, pushing the final score to 7259 for a Knights’ win.
Despite the pair of losses, there were notable accomplishments for both teams. Castro’s double-double was her second of the season, both Loffredo and Alberici scored double-digit points, and Kehoe caught 10 rebounds. Goodall’s attempt in this game gave him at least 17 points in his last three games and 259 for the year, Spellman had a 15+ rebound game, and Maddison extended to a 23-game streak with at least one three-pointer. Both the men’s and women’s teams will be playing again on February 15 against King’s College at Wilkes-Barre, PA.
win of 23-4, which finalized their day with two wins.
On Sunday, February 16, the Ducks will be hosting the MACFA Group B vs. Group C. matchup, with the games starting at 10 a.m.
WOMEN’S AND MEN’S TRACK AND FIELD Boston University Valentine Invitational - Day 2 Boston, MA Time TBA NYU DIII Invitational New York, NY Time TBA
WOMEN’S AND MEN’S SWIMMING MAC Championships - Day 2 York, PA Time TBA
MEN’S FENCING MACFA Group “B” - vs - “C” Hoboken, NJ 10 a.m.
PHOTO COURTESY OF STEVENSDUCKS.COM, EDITED BY NICOLE GIARDINO
HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY!
36 Questions to fall in love
Set I
1. Given the choice of anyone in the world, whom would you want as a dinner guest?
2. Would you like to be famous? In what way?
3. Before making a telephone call, do you ever rehearse what you are going to say? Why?
4. What would constitute a “perfect” day for you?
5. When did you last sing to yourself? To someone else?
6. If you were able to live to the age of 90 and retain either the mind or body of a 30-year-old for the last 60 years of your life, which would you want?
7. Do you have a secret hunch about how you will die?
8. Name three things you and your partner appear to have in common.
9. For what in your life do you feel most grateful?
10. If you could change anything about the way you were raised, what would it be?
11. Take four minutes and tell your partner your life story in as much detail as possible.
12. If you could wake up tomorrow having gained any one quality or ability, what would it be?
Set II
13. If a crystal ball could tell you the truth about yourself, your life, the future or anything else, what would you want to know?
14. Is there something that you’ve dreamed of doing for a long time? Why haven’t you done it?
15. What is the greatest accomplishment of your life?
16. What do you value most in a friendship?
17. What is your most treasured memory?
18. What is your most terrible memory?
19. If you knew that in one year you would die suddenly, would you change anything about the way you are now living? Why?
20. What does friendship mean to you?
21. What roles do love and affection play in your life?
22. Alternate sharing something you consider a positive characteristic of your partner. Share a total of five items.
23. How close and warm is your family? Do you feel your childhood was happier than most other people’s?
24. How do you feel about your relation ship with your mother?
Set III
25. Make three true “we” statements each. For instance, “We are both in this room feeling ... “
26. Complete this sentence: “I wish I had someone with whom I could share ... “
27. If you were going to become a close friend with your partner, please share what would be important for him or her to know.
28. Tell your partner what you like about them; be very honest this time, saying things that you might not say to someone you’ve just met.
29. Share with your partner an embar rassing moment in your life.
30. When did you last cry in front of an other person? By yourself?
31. Tell your partner something that you like about them already.
32. What, if anything, is too serious to be joked about?
33. If you were to die this evening with no opportunity to communicate with anyone, what would you most regret not having told someone? Why haven’t you told them yet?
34. Your house, containing everything you own, catches fire. After saving your loved ones and pets, you have time to safely make a final dash to save any one item. What would it be? Why?
35. Of all the people in your family, whose death would you find most disturbing? Why?
George Blazeski & Victoria (Tori) O’Connor
George Blazeski and Victoria (Tori) O’Connor, Class of 2010 and 2011, met on a Labor Day Weekend trip with mutual friends in 2010. Although George had already graduated when they started dating, they knew each other through mutual friends and were frequently in the same room while at Stevens. They got engaged in February 2012 and married a year later, in October 2013. Since then, they have both practiced law and now have three sons under the age of seven, keeping them on their toes!
Freddy Mendieta & Caroline Irungu
Freddy Mendieta and Caroline Irungu, BE-2005/ME-2013 and BE 2006, met in the summer of 2003 while Freddy was taking classes and Caroline was a TA for the STEP program. With mutual friends, they often spent evenings together and stayed connected via AIM while Freddy was on co-op. They spent a lot of time on campus, between their dorms in Palmer and Tech Halls, and ventured out for food at spots like Margaritas and CJ’s. Even faculty predicted they would marry one day! They got engaged on Christmas 2007,married in October 2009, and after leaving the area in 2016, they settled in Indiana, where they live with their three kids, Olivia, Isabella, and Leonardo!
BY EVAN PAPAGEORGE
Ken and Sandra Burgos, Class of 1999 and 2000, started dating in their third year at Stevens after a fun Colonel John’s Ratskeller Night, at a former campus bar! They were introduced by a mutual friend and instantly hit it off, exploring Hoboken and going out together. They got engaged two years after graduation during a San Francisco business trip and married about a year later! They currently have three daughters: one in sixth grade, one in 11th grade, and one who is a first-year student at Stevens!
36. Share a personal problem and ask your partner’s advice on how he or she might handle it. Also, ask your partner to reflect back to you how you seem to be feeling about the problem you have chosen.
(Sticco) and Zach Carr, Class of 2012 and 2011, officially met in Pierce Dining Hall one day after Zach had just finished soccer practice and Krista was introduced by a mutual friend. They got to know each other over meals, studying, and crossing paths as their relationship unfolded naturally and effortlessly until they eventually started dating a year later. They got married on March 7, 2015 — the same day as both of their parents’ wedding and are now working raising their two kids, Milo and Ellery!
Stephanie and Cliff Godfrey, Class of 2006 and 2007, met on Halloween 2004 at a party at the SigNu fraternity house. They spent their time at Stevens inseparable, joking that they might as well have earned each other’s degrees since they support each other so much! They married in 2015 in a beautiful destination wedding in Riviera Maya, Mexico and this year they are celebrating their 21st Valentine’s Day with their three kids!
and Carla Cabrera, Class of 1999, met before during a prospective students’ weekend and later reconnected through the STEP program and extracurricular activi ties. With the help of mutual friends, Nico las pursued Carla, who eventually came around. They bonded over shared interests like bowling, dancing, and clubbing. They started dating the semester before their senior year and got engaged in 2002 atop the Empire State Building. After moving to Connecticut, they married in 2003 and now enjoy bowling, biking, camping, and traveling with their two sons, Noah and Jai!
John & Dawn Shilkoski
Carl and Emily, BE 2002 and BE/ME 2003, met in 1999 while working as tour guides for an admissions open house. They started dating in late 2000 and dated for the remainder of their time at Stevens. They became engaged in March 2004, got married in October 2005, and are now happily raising their two kids, Kijo and Elliana, in the Finger Lakes region of New York!
Ashley and Joe Tiseo, Class of 2008, met on the first day pre-orientation and have been inseparable since! Ashley happened to wear Joe’s favorite color, and when she chose Hoboken Cottage for dinner, Joe made sure to grab a seat next to her. While at Stevens, they spent as much time together as possible, only separated by their major-specific classes. They got engaged in 2008 and married in 2010. Recently, they celebrated 21 years with a trip to Switzerland, where they hiked the Alps and tried to see every waterfall possible!
Krista (Sticco) & Zach Carr
Krista
Nicolas & Carla Cabrera
Nicolas
Alecia & Teddy Poppe
Alecia and Teddy Poppe, Class of 2012 and 2013, met in their first year at Stevens, where they immediately began arguing over whether Boston or New York City was the ultimate city. They spent their time at Stevens very involved and often working together in the SGA, residential, and Greek life! In May 2013, they got engaged on Castle Point, overlooking the city skyline by Hoxie House. They are still involved in their community, along with their dog and two kids, Tommy and Leria!
Stephanie & Cliff Godfrey
Ashley & Joe Tiseo
John and Dawn Shilkoski, Class of 2006 and 2009, met through a hot dog eating contest at SigNu! While at Stevens, they had a fun relationship, enjoying travelling, exploring new restaurants, and living life to its fullest. They got engaged in 2007 and married in 2009, and now have a three-year-old son, John Warren!
Valentine Grams
CUT
Who needs Valentine’s when you can have Galentines
JEYLAN JUBRAN, OPINION COLUMNIST
Forget Valentine’s Day — Galentine’s Day is the real holiday worth celebrating! Whether you’re single, taken, or somewhere in between, this weekend is the perfect excuse to gather your closest friends for a cozy, craft-filled night. With snacks, laughter, and a little creativity, you can turn a simple night at home or in the dorms into an unforgettable bonding experience. If you’re celebrating in the dorms, just be mindful of noise complaints — because these ideas will have you laughing a little too loudly!
1. Presentation Night!!
We’ve all seen it on TikTok (R.I.P), and we all thought it would be fun — now’s your perfect excuse to actually do it. It only takes five minutes to throw together a slideshow, and if you’re stumped on ideas, you can always consult ChatGPT, Pinterest, or (if you’re lucky enough to still have access) TikTok. Some hilarious ideas my friends and I have come up with include:
- Our Types as Disney Characters
- Everyone as Cocktails
- Why We Would Be Returned If Kidnapped
- Common Quotes We Say That We Probably Shouldn’t Make it a game — add a Kahoot round, a “Would You Rather” section, or let everyone vote on the best presentation. The possibilities are endless, and trust me, you’ll be crying laughing by the end of the night.
2. DIY Valentine’s Cards
Who says Valentine’s cards are just for couples? Handmade cards are a thoughtful way to show appreciation for your friends. Set up a card-making station with colored paper, markers, stickers, and glitter, then write sweet or funny messages to each other. Want to make it extra meaningful? Try crafting an “Open When” letter for a friend who could use a little extra love throughout the year — or even one for yourself to open on a tough day.
3. Spa Night
Self-care is a must, and Galentine’s is the perfect excuse for some well-deserved relaxation. Throw on some sheet masks, or get creative by making your own. There are tons of easy DIY recipes for face masks, lip scrubs, or bath salts using simple ingredients like honey, sugar, coconut oil, and essential oils. Set the mood with relaxing music, sip on tea or hot cocoa (or wine ��), and treat yourselves to the ultimate at-home spa experience. After all, with the semester ahead, we all need a little extra pampering.
4. Bouquet Making – No Special Someone Required! Fresh flowers instantly brighten up a space, and DIY bouquets are a fun, hands-on activity. Grab an assortment of flowers from Trader Joe’s or any nearby market, then mix and match to create personalized floral arrangements. Wrap them in tissue paper or place them in a vase to keep your space feeling fresh all week. You don’t need a partner to buy you flowers when you can get them for yourself!
5. Rom-Com Movie Marathon What’s a Galentine’s night without cute, feel-good rom-coms? Set up a cozy viewing area with blankets, fairy lights, and lots of snacks, then queue up classics like How to Lose a Guy in 10 10 Things I Hate About You, and The Princess Diaries. Afraid you’ll fall asleep? Make it interactive! Turn it into a drinking game, play Rom-Com Bingo, or have it running in the background while you do your nails and face masks. Final Touches for the Perfect Galentine’s Night Dress Code: COZY. If you aren’t wearing PJs, please don’t bother. Music Playlist: 2000s throwbacks and feel-good anthems. Drinks: Mocktails, hot cocoa, or Games: Presentation Night, “Never Have I Ever,” or “Most Likely Galentine’s Day is all about celebrating friendship and self-love. Whether you’re crafting, watching movies, or chatting for hours, the most important thing is enjoying the moment. So gather your friends, get cozy, and host a Galentine’s night that’ll make you forget all about Valentine’s!
Love
BY ERIN MCGEE, OPINION COLUMNIST
If you’re walking around Hoboken this Valentine’s Day, it’s likely you’ll run into a pigeon blocking the sidewalk. Before you get upset with our city-dwelling birds, take a moment to appreciate their perspective on love: pigeons form tight social bonds in flocks and even mate for life. In fact, this is a quality typical of many birds. Kevin McGowan, an ornithologist at Cornell University who studies crows, says, “I would suspect they do have affection for each other…it’s not going to be the same as what humans have, but I suspect it’s close enough that we’d recognize it.”
Studying how animals interact is a complex and highly specialized task. Researchers often point to how different the way species mate is as an indication of how hard it is to make generalizations about the field. Furthermore, what we think of as “love” in humans revolves around a very specific set of chemicals, which can’t always be observed in animals. Nonetheless, animals are capable of affection towards one another. There are many reported cases of animals acting with compassion and love for others, and ecologists and neurobiologists alike have studied these cases specifically.
Most discussions about ani-
mal affection revolve around one quality we usually don’t associate with nature: altruism. Scientists have debated for decades whether animals are capable of performing actions that are truly altruistic, that is, if they can perform a behavior that benefits others at a direct cost to themselves. It seems to be in direct contradiction to Darwin’s theory of evolution, which states that evolution rewards “survival of the fittest.” Sacrificing resources for others goes against this directly. Nonetheless, there are countless examples of animals seeming to act out of compassion for one another. Vampire bats have been known to give food to others in their roost who did not successfully find enough at night. Furthermore, a study into African grey parrots found that when the parrots were trained to exchange tokens for food, some parrots would willingly share their tokens with the parrots who had none, suggesting that they had some understanding of when their partners needed help. It is also well known that bees operate in a highly social and organized colony, with almost the entire community working in the service of the queen.
These examples can even transcend species. In 2013, German researchers discovered an adult bottlenose dolphin off the coast of Portugal that had an S-shaped
spine. This problem made it difficult for the dolphin to avoid predators, causing it to be separated from its pack. The animal was temporarily “adopted” by a group of sperm whales, who were previously not known to form any cross-species bonds. The groups seemed to form a bond: when the dolphin would rub up against the whales, they would often return the gesture. Researchers do not have a clear answer as to why animals would help another species with seemingly no benefit to their own.
Scientists suspect, however, that many of these acts that we view as love are not entirely selfless. Most researchers point to the fact that when animals act in service of others, they are, in turn, helping themselves. When a bee supports its colony or a bat feeds its roost, they are ensuring that they will have a higher chance of reproducing.
Regardless of their reasons for their kindness, we can take something from observing how animals interact with one another. Author of When Elephants Weep: The Emotional Lives of Animals Jeffery Masson suggests that while animal emotions can be easily misread, we should take them at face value and appreciate that to care about others we see is a part of nature. Masson says simply: “Feelings just are. They justify themselves.”
BY DISHA GOHIL, STAFF WRITER
As of right now, babies are born to two biological parents. However, by using lab-grown eggs and sperm, future babies might be born to just one.
According to the UK’s Human Fertilization and Embryology Authority (HFEA), scientists are close to developing technology for eggs and sperm to be grown in the lab, making single-parent conception a reality. This process, known as “in-vitro gametogenesis” (IVG), involves generating eggs and sperm from skin or stem cells. Scientists believe this technology could be fully developed within the next decade, providing many new opportunities, such as removing age barriers to conception, same-sex couples having biological children together, and new fertility options for men and women.
Peter Thompson, chief executive of the HFEA, said: “In-vitro gametes have the potential to vastly increase the availability of human sperm and eggs for research and, if proved safe, effective, and publicly acceptable, to provide new fertility treatment options for men with low sperm counts and women with low ovarian reserve.”
Other possibilities are “solo parenting” and “multiplex parenting.” Solo parenting is where the egg and sperm are created by the same individual. Multiplex parenting is where “two couples produce two embryos and cells from
A broken heart can’t kill you…can it?
BY TANYA AVADIA, BUSINESS MANAGER
If you have ever gone through a rough breakup, you may have thought that you were going to die of a broken heart. Chances are, you’re reading this, so you didn’t. But it is possible to actually die of a broken heart. Broken heart syndrome, also known as stress-induced cardiomyopathy or takotsubo cardiomyopathy, can be fatal. Broken heart syndrome usually occurs in response to the stress hormones produced by one’s body after an incredibly stressful event. This is why this condition can happen to anyone, including those who are in perfect health. A divorce, a death, or even the shock from winning the lottery can onset stress hormones, which could potentially end in broken heart syndrome.
The symptoms of this condition are very similar to those of a heart attack. Sudden and intense chest pain, difficulty breathing as well as tests reporting drastic changes in the rhythm and blood substances are common in heart
attacks as well. This is why oftentimes, this stress-induced cardiomyopathy is misdiagnosed as a heart attack. The main difference between the two, however, is that arteries are blocked during a heart attack. In broken heart syndrome, a part of the heart becomes enlarged and doesn’t pump as normal, while the rest of the heart functions normally or with more forceful contractions. Those who experience this can luckily make a full recovery and be treated with little risk of experiencing it again. However, in more severe cases, the broken heart syndrome can lead to muscle weakness and even failure. This syndrome is fairly rare overall. It occurs in about 2% of those who visit the emergency room for what they initially believe is a heart attack. In terms of which groups takotsubo cardiomyopathy impacts the most, women make up about 89% of the cases. One explanation for this is menopause. Women between the ages of 58 and 77 who experience menopause are susceptible to this condition because, with age
and especially past menopause, estrogen levels drop. Estrogen protects your heart from the harmful effects of stress-induced hormones. This is why older women are more likely to feel the effects of sudden stress, which could very well be takotsubo.
Treatment for the broken heart syndrome is very important. It usually consists of taking medication to regulate the heart. Aspirin is used to improve blood flow and prevent clots. ACE (angiotensin-converting enzyme) inhibitors or ARBs (angiotensin receptor blockers) are given to fight inflammation and lower blood pressure. In more extreme cases, pumps may be used if your heart needs a little support pumping. Broken heart syndrome can occur in response to very stressful situations. While there is very little you can do to prevent this syndrome especially, practicing a healthy lifestyle and learning how to manage stress can help. Exercising regularly, meditating, and learning to manage stressors in your life can be beneficial to your overall health.
these embryos would be used to derive eggs and sperm in the lab to create a final embryo.”
Even though this technology can open the doors to new possibilities, there are also several risk factors associated with it. The reduction in age barriers could lead to older women having high-risk pregnancies and children being born to much older parents. Along with these concerns, medical and ethical issues also arise in solo parenting. In solo parenting, because the child will be born to only one parent, there is a higher chance of the child expressing recessive genetic disorders. This is because since people carry two copies of every gene (one maternal and one paternal), the recessive gene is not always expressed. However, if both copies of the gene come from the same individual, there is a greater likelihood that the child will have a recessive genetic disorder. An ethical issue of solo parenting is that it is considered the complete extreme of incest and that it is so dangerous no one would consider it to be a safe process, as explained by HFEA member Frances Flinter. Because of this, the HFEA believes that IVG requires legal and ethical regulation before it can be used as a medical treatment.
Thompson said, “This is the latest of a range of detailed recommendations on scientific developments that we are looking at to future-proof the HFE Act, but any decisions around UK modernising fertility law are a matter for parliament.”
Love on the brain: how it evolves and how it collapses
BY RIYANA PHADKE, SCIENCE EDITOR
Ah, love. Perhaps one of the most studied, and yet least understood, behaviors.
“Love is a biological necessity—it’s as needed for our well-being as exercise, water, and food,” said neuroscientist Stephanie Cacioppo, PhD.
Two decades of research have shown that when it comes to romantic love, a very primitive part of the brain’s reward system is activated first, located in the midbrain. Lucy Brown, PhD, a neuroscientist, and her colleagues used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to study men and women who were “in love” based on their scores from a passionate love scale, a 14-item questionnaire used to examine cognitive, emotional, and behavioral aspects of love that researchers have used for decades. People who score in the highest range are deemed to be wildly in love.
Participants in the same study also viewed a photograph of their loved one and a photograph of a familiar person. When viewing the photo of their romantic partner, the participant’s ventral tegmental area (VTA), the part of the brain connected to meeting basic needs, was activated.
When people fall in love, chemicals associated with reward enter the brain, producing both physical and emotional responses– a racing heart, sweaty palms, flushed cheeks– the common symptoms of butterflies in the stomach. Cortisol levels increase during the initial phases of romantic love, causing our bodies to stay on high alert. As cortisol rises, serotonin decreases, which many researchers describe as the “maddeningly preoccupying thoughts, hopes, terrors of early
love.” Being in love also releases high levels of dopamine, which activates the reward circuit, helping love to be a pleasurable experience. Interestingly, this is the same feeling of euphoria that a person gets when using cocaine or alcohol.
Oxytocin, often known as the love hormone, deepens a person’s feeling of attachment and makes couples feel closer to one another. It also provokes feelings of contentment, calmness, and security. Vasopressin, another hormone in the body, has been linked to behavior that produces long-term, monogamous relationships. Ongoing research on the difference in behavior due to the actions of oxytocin and vasopressin aims to explain why passionate love fades as attachment grows.
Richard Schwartz, a Harvard professor and couples therapist, notes that “if love lasts, this rollercoaster of emotions, and, sometimes, angst, calms within one or two years. The passion is still there, but the stress of it is gone”. Love, which once was a stressor, becomes a safeguard against stress.
Of course, love extends far beyond romantic relationships. Family members, friends, pets, and activities that bring someone joy can also stimulate the brain’s love pathways. Experiencing different forms of love is necessary for a person’s development and well-being. When these relationships are healthy and positive, an individual feels more confident and has higher self-esteem.
If you’re looking to show love to someone a little extra this Valentine’s Day, try engaging in quality time with them, expressing your gratitude towards them, displaying physical affection, or performing an act of service. Just a little bit of love goes a long way.
PHOTO COURTESY OF WORLDANIMALPROTECTION.CA
As we enter the love-filled time of year, we often sit and reflect on our relationships with our romantic partners.
This Valentine’s Day, if you have a special someone, you might be taking them out to a nice restaurant, spending a homey night in, or trying something new. For those not cuffed up, myself included, you might be having a galantines night or guys night out. Valentine’s Day is traditionally thought of as a time to celebrate the platonic and romantic relationships in our life; however, this year, I challenge you as I’m challenging myself to reflect on your relationship—interpreted broadly— with your work.
Over the past four years, I’ve been captivated by a different type of love. I deeply enjoy having conversations with my peers, friends, mentors, and colleagues about the work they do or aspire to do in the future. My first-year dorm in Castle Point and many walks around campus with friends are two of the venues where
es for meaning and fulfill ment in work. Companies have listened to an extent by leveraging messaging strategies that highlight the missions and societal impact of firms. I’ve anecdotally concluded that there’s an overwhelming desire to be passionate about the work we participate in.
Research suggests that passion, an intrinsic motivator, can elicit benefits like increased performance—a business imperative for passion in the workplace— stronger social connection to colleagues, and fewer experiences of emotional exhaustion at work, which since 2020 has become increasingly difficult for companies to curb emotional exhaustion at work.
New research suggests that considering all the benefits associated with being passionate about your work can be negated if you work in teams where you’re less passionate than your colleagues. Two studies were conducted on engineering teams. Over 1000 employees on 300+ teams were surveyed three times per
UNMASKING: AN AUTISM STORY
day for 20 days. The findings suggest that on teams where there are very passionate employees and less passionate employees, it creates environmental pressures for employees to put on a superficial persona of themselves, which in turn can ostracize them from their colleagues, have negative performance effects, and be an emotionally exhausting endeavor to wear the superficial persona and engage in behaviors not authentic to them.
What can you do about this? If you find yourself in a situation where you lack passion compared to your colleagues, that’s ok. Passion is an intrinsic motivator. Something tied to our identity internally. Shift your perspective to the extrinsic motivators that have brought you to this work. Obviously, there is a salary associated with the work you do, but beyond that perhaps there are other extrinsic motivations, often more tangible, you can chase. These can include promotions, raises, performance, recognition, etc. Don’t allow groups of passionate people to feel ostracized or pressured because you don’t share the same level of passion.
As you continue your search for the right first job or reflect on the work you’ll be doing, consider reflecting on your relationship with that work. Will passion be driving your success or exhausting you?
BOOK OF THE WEEK
A reflection of My Year of Rest and Relaxation
BY MADISON HELLER ‘27
My Year of Rest and Relaxation by Ottessa Moshfegh is so commonly listed under standard lists of edgy or dark fiction recommendations that when I first picked it up a couple of years ago, I thought there was no way I would enjoy it. But if nothing else, I am a complainer and someone who has an ego the size of the sun, so if I am going to criticize something, I am going to know what I am talking about. Happy to report that my initial assessment was wrong and that, by and large, Ottessa Moshfegh is one of my favorite authors, and I highly recommend her work as a whole. But the reason I say all of this is because the very premise of the book has been something I have recently connected to.
My Year of Rest and Relaxation follows a nameless young woman in early 2000s NYC who has it all. She is a trust-fund baby, a Columbia graduate, thin and gorgeous, and has flocks of admirers. And yet she is entirely and completely mis-
erable. So what is a girl to do but try to destroy her current concept of self through a delirious drug cocktail to try and come out the other side, not depressed and with some semblance of a purpose in life? With the help of perhaps the quackiest of psychiatrists prescribing her stronger and stronger sleeping pills, she aspires to sleep for an entire year, or at least not be conscious of any of it.
What makes the novel itself so interesting to me is its relationship with time. When you are as privileged as our protagonist, to the point that nothing you do (or do not do) in life affects the vague greyness of your existence, time takes on an entirely different meaning. When she had a friend and when she did not, when she briefly met her ex when, she became the embodiment of shock value art. Not days, weeks, or months, but rather her year is marked with events like these, and events like waking up and suddenly there is snow, or flowers blooming, and so on. Things that, when we wake up and see them, feel marvelous are nothing more than markers that she has continued to exist. Nothing is significant to him, and everything is this vague grey slab of time that she wants to skip through and somehow emerge better.
BY EVAN
Love often is an explosion of emotions — hearts racing, butterflies in the stomach, and grand romantic gestures. But for autistic individuals, love can look a little different. It can be thoughtful, profoundly logical, and beautifully unique, much like how penguins express affection. This Valentine’s Day, let’s take a moment to celebrate the way autis-
tic individuals experience and express love — whether through structured traditions, meaningful objects, or steadfast loyalty.
Did you know penguins have a simple yet significant way of showing affection? A male penguin will search for the perfect pebble and present it to a potential partner when looking for a mate. If the female accepts, they form a lifelong bond, building a nest together, one pebble at a time.
This small but mighty act mirrors how many autistic individuals approach love.
While neurotypical relationships may focus on spontaneous displays of affection, autistic love often uses routine, logic, and tangible expressions of care. A wellthought-out gift, a carefully crafted message, or an act of
service can mean far more than a grand, impulsive romantic gesture. Love isn’t about sweeping someone off their feet — it’s about creating a foundation of trust, just like those penguins building their pebble nests.
Many autistic individuals approach relationships with a profoundly logical perspective. This is not to say emotions aren’t present, but they often don’t drive decision-making like they might for neurotypicals. Love isn’t just a feeling; it’s a choice, a commitment, a structured system that makes sense in the grand equation of life.
Autistic individuals may show love in unconventional ways — perhaps by remembering and following every Valentine’s Day tradition to the letter or creating a perfectly curated playlist based
on their partner’s favorite sounds. They might struggle with expressing emotions verbally, but they’ll demonstrate love through actions — fixing something broken, researching a partner’s special interest, or ensuring that their loved one’s routine stays on track.
While neurotypicals might see romance as spontaneous and unpredictable, autistic love thrives in reliability. Predictability holds an unspoken promise — when an autistic person loves you, that love is steadfast, unwavering, and deeply rooted in intention.
Of course, there isn’t always a misunderstanding of autistic love. Because many autistic individuals process emotions differently, they might not react to romantic situations in expected ways.
BY MARTINA FRANZ
The ending is particularly striking, given how the novel went up to that point. It is impossible to make heads or tails about whether what occurred was for the better or worse. As a reader, you don’t know whether you want things to be better or worse for the protagonist either. She is deeply unlikeable because we are stuck in her vapid-faux intellectual head, but she is not an annoying character. She is just a disastrous train wreck from which you cannot turn away. I will not give any more spoilers. However, I will say the reason I have been thinking about this novel is that I have freshly recovered from sleeping 12 hours a day, several days in a row. I got a nasty case of a cold going around and spent the entirety of last week asleep in bed, with only my roommates marking the passage of time. So, if you want a similar experience to being briefly comatose and then coughing your lungs out in a fun way, read My Year of Rest and Relaxation by Ottessa Moshfegh.
Pebbling our way through an autistic Valentine’s Day
A surprise Valentine’s date might cause anxiety rather than excitement. A change in routine—even for something joyful—can feel overwhelming. A partner might misinterpret logical, practical expressions of love as distant or cold.
But just because autistic love doesn’t always align with typical romantic expectations doesn’t make it any less meaningful. It often makes it even more profound. Autistic individuals don’t love because of fleeting passion or social expectations; instead, they love because they’ve chosen to, because it makes sense, and because they’ve built something real — one pebble at a time.
So, how do you celebrate love with an autistic partner or friend this Valentine’s
Day? The first is to respect their differences. If they don’t like surprises, don’t plan one. Suppose they prefer quiet time over big celebrations; honor that. Another is to use their unique interests. Whether it’s a favorite book, movie, or special interest, incorporating what they love into the day shows deep understanding. Finally, they should use the love language they use and enjoy. If they express love through structure, logic, or actions instead of words, recognize the meaning behind it. Love, in all its forms, is beautiful. Autistic love, like the pebbles of a penguin, is deliberate, lasting, and deeply meaningful. Let’s celebrate love in all its unique expressions this Valentine’s Day — one thoughtful pebble at a time.
PHOTO COURTESY OF AMAZON
PAPAGEORGE ‘26
Opinion
What no one tells you about your first internship
everything — your job is to ask questions, take notes, and learn. And if you ever feel lost? JUST ASK.
2. You Might Not Have Enough Work (Or Too Much)
the office quirks, the more comfortable you’ll feel.
4. Your First Week Is Basically a Blur
FOR MATH’S SAKE
Cultivating a love for mathematics (or other subjects)
So, you’ve landed your first internship. You spent months perfecting your resume, writing cover letters that felt like soul-searching essays, and surviving the gauntlet of HireVue interviews where you stared into the void (aka your webcam) trying to sound employable. Now you’re finally in — but what happens next?
Internships are supposed to be the stepping stone to your career, but no one really prepares you for what they’re actually like. Here’s everything I wish someone had told me before my first day.
1. Imposter Syndrome Will Hit Hard (And That’s Normal)
No matter how qualified you are, you will spend your first few weeks feeling like you scammed your way in. You’ll sit in meetings where people casually throw around acronyms like ROI, TAB, and BMS and pretend to understand what they mean. Spoiler: most people are winging it. The truth is feeling out of place is part of the process. No one expects you to know
FOODIE FINDS
There’s no in-between. You’ll either be twiddling your thumbs, refreshing your inbox every five minutes, or drowning in so many tasks you wonder if they accidentally hired you as a full-time employee.
If you have nothing to do, don’t just sit there — be proactive. Ask your manager if there are any side projects you can help with. Offer to assist a coworker. In the worst-case scenario, teach yourself a skill (Excel, coding, industry trends — whatever makes you better). If you have too much work, prioritize and communicate. No one expects you to finish an entire department’s to-do list, so set realistic deadlines and ask for clarification if you’re overwhelmed. Yes, you are an intern, but you aren’t supposed to do every little thing.
3. No One Will Explain the Unwritten Rules
Every workplace has unspoken norms. Maybe your office has a weird Slack emoji culture. Maybe everyone should have lunch at 11:45 a.m. sharp. Maybe the CEO responds to emails with just “OK.” Observe, adapt, and when in doubt, ask your fellow interns or a friendly coworker. The faster you learn
Between HR orientations, IT setup, and meeting more people than you can possibly remember, your first week will feel like speed-running an entire season of The Office. You’ll nod along as someone explains a company process you immediately forget.
Tip: Take notes. Seriously. Write down names, login instructions, and random acronyms. You will thank yourself later.
5. Your Experience Depends on You
Some internships are incredible learning opportunities. Others… not so much. Either way, what you get out of it depends on your effort.
Take initiative. Say yes to opportunities (but don’t be afraid to say no if you’re overwhelmed).
Make the most of whatever experience you have — even if it’s not your dream role, you’re still gaining skills.
Your first internship won’t be perfect. You’ll make mistakes, feel awkward, and question whether you actually know anything. But you’ll also grow, gain confidence, and figure out what you like (or don’t like) in a job.
So, if you’re about to start your first internship, take a deep breath. You’ve got this. And if all else fails, just smile, nod, and Google it later.
Love at first bite at Yuan
BY PRISHA VAGVALA ‘28
I’m grateful to have enjoyed a winter break full of exquisite food, ranging from cozy small-town restaurants to fine dining experiences. One glorious Chinese restaurant, Yuan, managed to steal the show with the piquant, intense flavors of its savory Szechuan-style dishes, followed by a luscious lemon tart that provided a refreshingly sweet contrast. With low lighting, gold accents, booths of rich wood, and red lanterns enveloping the area, the atmosphere effortlessly evoked a sense of luxury and authentic Chinese culture. The frigid, snowy outdoors set the scene, while the warmly lit restaurant offered comfort, reflected in their elevated comfort foods. We entered the restaurant with frozen hands and snowy jackets, and less than an hour before closing time. Within five minutes, we were immediately seated, and a waiter took our order of kung pao chicken, bamboo shoots duck soup (Stevens ducks, forgive me), chicken stirfried noodles, chicken fried rice, and finally, lemon tarts. The service throughout the night was very kind and attentive, with Yuan’s manager checking to see if we were enjoying the food.
The dishes arrived at our table quickly, as if the kitchen had anticipated our order. Within minutes, large steaming plates arrived at the table, impressing us with the efficiency of the service. I started with the kung pao chicken as it was a familiar dish I had before, but each time, it never failed to amaze me with the blend of flavors incoming from different ingredients and the sauce itself. The tender chicken was coated in a glossy sauce infused with the numbing heat of Szechuan peppercorns and the smoky kick of dried red chilies while remaining slightly sweet. My mouth watered when I saw the kung pao chicken on the table. It was the dish I had been looking forward to the most. My mother insisted I try soup because my hands were frozen and my nose was red, so I obliged. I had never had duck before this meal and expected it to taste like chicken. Mostly, it did, but it was more affluent, fattier, and slightly dry. The soup was mild, but the bamboo shoot added an interest-
spoonful of chicken fried rice, a dish that never disappoints. It is one of those reliable comfort foods you can always count on. The stirfried noodles were delectable, coated in soy sauce and sesame oil, and tossed with colorful vegetables, creating an appealing presentation. They had a slight spiciness, reminiscent of traditional Szechuan flavoring. Dessert is my favorite part of the dining experience, and it becomes even more enjoyable when it is artfully plated. That was the case when I ordered the lemon tart. The lemon slices, blueberries, and strawberries were arranged beautifully. The lemon tart was perfectly balanced, with the lemon curd not being too sweet or sour. It was bright, fresh, decadent, and luxurious, expertly balancing the sweetness and tartness of the lemon flavors. As we returned to the cold, we left with full stomachs, satisfied with the lingering taste of lemon tart on our tongues and looking forward to our next visit. With its cozy ambiance and flavorful dishes, Yuan is the perfect place to bring your
BY CHARLES BEALL B.S. ‘23 & PHD STUDENT
this year’s issue, I thought it fitting to write about the love of mathematics. The math here will be the focus, but I hope I can convince you that my journeys with this subject have some common threads relevant to the people and things you love (even if math is decidedly not one of those things).
I remember loving math from an early age, probably because I was very good at the subject in school. But I was incredibly lucky to have some really cool teachers who also loved math and loved to teach it to students. My third-grade teacher would make a “four-square” worksheet every morning of school, which featured four math problems that increased in difficulty from the first to the last square. The problems were so much fun I would go to school early to start working on them. This exciting problem-solving environment continued in middle school, where my seventh-grade teacher split the class into groups of four for each unit.
ON SHUFFLE
Each group member had specific tasks, and I was usually the group leader, helping answer questions or explain topics before we could ask the teacher about them (one of the mathematical rules in that class was “C 3 B 4 me,” to encourage peer-based learning). At the end of each unit, the group members would write “warm and fuzzies” for each other — compliments we would give each other after working together for several weeks to tackle a new algebra topic.
Finally, in high school, I had an incredible calculus teacher who would host a “Calcsgiving” every year before Thanksgiving break to celebrate the work we had done so far on a challenging subject. It is in large part thanks to this calculus teacher that I have a Bachelor’s degree in mathematics — the college credit I received in high school made it possible for me to add math as a second major in addition to physics. My high school physics curriculum was equally stellar (to the point where taking the AP Physics C exam –on my 18th birthday–went largely pretty well). I loved physics, too, and for a while, I wanted to pursue a career in the subject. I likely would have stuck with this, but I had another incredible math experience at a summer research program in Toronto, Canada. The mathematics research was so exciting and so fulfilling that I realized I wanted to instead continue in this area. It was also right after this summer research experience that I
Love songs on shuffle
The fourteenth of February. The day for all things pink and red and full of love. Valentine’s Day! Some people love this day, while others choose not to observe. Valentine’s Day either means beautiful love songs playing throughout the day or the most heart-breaking ballads that instantly bring tears.
For me, Valentine’s Day is a fun holiday to remember who in my life is the most special to me. I have always liked this day because of the fun energy surrounding it. Music soundtrack every aspect of my life, so love songs have always been important to me. I picked three songs that I think should be included in everybody’s Valentine’s playlist. The songs are “Bathroom Light” by Mt. Joy, “New Year’s Day” by Taylor Swift, and “Work Song” by Hozier. These three songs create a genre-bending combination that is sure to add extra feel ings to your Valentine’s Day playlist.
First, we start with Mt. Joy’s “Bathroom Light.” If you don’t know Mt. Joy, they are an alternative rock band from Philadelphia. “Bath room Light” is one of the
began writing this column (for better or for worse). The point of all this backstory is that where I am currently—pursuing a PhD in mathematics with a wonderful advisor and research group, working on research that brings me new excitement and fresh motivation almost constantly—didn’t just happen. Rather, over the years, I cultivated a deep love for mathematics that has kept me largely loyal to the subject (despite what physicists tell you, physics is really just a bunch of math that does a really really good job of describing the world).
This cultivation also relied on the support and knowledge I received from several wonderful mathematics teachers, and experiences through research opportunities and travel to conferences (I just got back from another one in Chicago!). This is a key aspect of love in a school subject that all students deserve, but moreover, in life, we humans need a caring and supportive partner or community for love to grow. We also have these people to fall back on when we fail a test (this happened to me on my 21st birthday — the challenge of a birthday in May is its prime test season!), lose a loved one, or experience some other hardship or strife.
So, in this special year (2025 is a perfect square!), I wish you success in cultivating love for whatever brings you joy. It is a challenging journey, with lots of course corrections, but well worth it.
most memorable songs from their 2022 album Orange Blood. This song is a perfect mix of laid-back guitar and meaningful lyrics. The backstory of this song is about how one of the band members met his wife in a bar. They serendipitously met each other in a crowded bar one weekend and totally fell in love. This is one of those songs where you can see the story as the song plays. You can feel them falling in love.
If you know anything about me, you know that I am a die-hard Taylor Swift fan. No matter anything anyone says, I really am a Swiftie deep down. I had to include one of her songs because she is literally the inventor of love songs. “New Year’s Day” is on Swift’s album Reputation. This song takes place on New Year’s Day when Taylor describes a beautifully chaotic aftermath of a New Year’s party. She explains that she wants to spend time with her partner, no matter the time, date, or circumstance. She says, “I want your midnights / But I’ll be cleaning up bottles with you on New Year’s Day.” This is a love song for the ages. It is completely
heartfelt and emotional. The total package to make you feel more in love.
The last song might come as a surprise. “Work Song” by Hozier is kind of a wild card song. It is eerily beautiful and outstandingly haunting. I wanted to add this to the list to give it some depth. Hozier talks about how when he moves on to the afterlife, he won’t stay on the ground because he is so much in love. The love is so transcending for him that he will end up crawling back to his partner. You might think this is insane, you might think this is crazily beautiful, or you might be right in between. I think everyone should listen to this song, and maybe you will feel the love through the haunting lyrics.
Overall, Valentine’s Day is about love. Love for yourself, love for your family, love for your friends, or love for that special someone. This Valentine’s, find time to listen to some of your favorite love songs or breakup songs if it is that kind of year. Hopefully, these three songs will make it onto your playlists and help you fall more in love.
THOMAS ‘26
PHOTO COURTESY OF HOBOKENGIRL
JUBRAN ‘27
BAFFLING BITS & BOBS
Matters of the heart
turity is apathy. But what is nonchalance, really?
GIRL( ISH ) TALK
BY KEVIN CASTNER
JR. B.E. ‘24 & M.E. ‘25
Whether it’s a pulse or brain activity that determines whether we are alive is up for debate, but the heart definitely plays a very big role in our living, both physically and emotionally. The Latin word for heart, cor, pops up in many words we still use today — discord (apart from the heart) and concordant (with the heart). The core of our being, so to speak, beats around 100,000 times a day. It serves as the center of the circulatory system, pumping oxygen-rich blood through the body. Deoxygenated blood returns to the heart through veins, is sent to the lungs via arteries to pick up oxygen and then is pumped back out to sustain the body. Like most tissues, the heart is viscoelastic, meaning it can physically stiffen or soften based on activity and demand.
The physical, life-sustaining aspect of the heart is but one of its roles in the human experience. The heart also symbolizes the broad range of human feelings and emotions. Often defying logic and convention, some find it easier to ignore the heart, to suppress the pangs they feel at their core — good or bad, longing or disdain, concordance or discord. It is seen as more desirable nowadays to be “chill,” to be nonchalant and coolly logical. To act
The word nonchalant also has Latin roots, coming from non , meaning “not,” and calere, meaning “to be hot with passion and drive.” The etymology suggests that not caring is to deny the furnace of fervor that burns in all of us its purpose. Yet, we continue to suppress our emotions, afraid of vulnerability, afraid of appearing too affected. But the heart never stops beating away. Is it easy? No. Is it convenient? Hardly. Yet the physical heart persists nonetheless.
That is not to say that the heart is invulnerable. In fact, it tends to urge us toward paths that ultimately blow up in our faces. It’s human nature to love, to yearn, to mourn, and, most importantly, to give a shit. There are times when we feel our hearts cannot go on, beaten and battered by, more often than not, the consequences of our own actions. But the only way to resolve these feelings and keep living is not over them, not under them, not around them, and definitely not away from them. You have to go through them. How you go through it is personal to all of us. No one person processes things the same way. But what’s important is not to suffocate the flame. You have to tend your feelings like you would a campfire. Too much and you burn the forest down; too little and you go cold. You have to find the right balance of fuel, time, and care. Because what is a life without passion? Without longing? Without feeling? So, if you take anything away from this article on this day of love, let it be
What women really want <3
BY TANYA AVADIA ‘26
If you’re reading this, then it’s Valentine’s Day! It is certainly an exciting day filled with red roses, chocolate, and cute little teddy bears. While all of these things certainly make for great gifts and gestures, what if I told you most women want something more? Hold on, this doesn’t mean you blow out all the romantically lit candles and cancel that dinner reservation. All I am saying is maybe search a little deeper, and maybe you’ll understand your partner’s desires a lot more clearly. What (most) women really want is thoughtfulness, effort, and proof that you listen.
While every girl likes flowers (and yes, please get them for her if you already haven’t), what she appreciates more is the thought of flowers. She likes that you
thought to get her flowers. More so than that, she would greatly appreciate it if you took into consideration things such as her favorite colors, favorite scents, or even her favorite flower type. Knowing these little things about your partner is thoughtful and is much more romantic than getting them something generic. This advice doesn’t just apply to Valentine’s Day, though. Going out to a restaurant, take into consideration your partner’s likes and dislikes and even any food restrictions. If you are planning on getting jewelry for your partner, know whether they prefer gold or silver and purchase jewelry. An extremely important thing that you should know about your partner is their love language — the way in which they prefer to give and receive love. This way it makes it easier for you to connect with them and makes your words and actions more meaningful. Knowing these types of things about your partner is a must and shows that you care.
All relationships take work, and romantic relationships are no exception. While grand gestures and thoughtful planning
are nice to have, all of it is meaningless without being able to have an emotional understanding. The ability to talk about your feelings, how you are doing, and what is bothering you in an open manner to your partner showcases good emotional intelligence. On the flip side, if your partner opens up to you, you should be able to read them well enough to understand how to console them. For example, do they want actual advice or just for someone to hear them out? This helps with building trust and emotional intimacy. Connecting it back to Valentine’s Day, doing something special for your partner, and having it be more heartfelt and special directly ties into the understanding you have for each other.
Now, going back to what I said at the beginning, flowers, chocolate, and teddy bears are great. However, what women like more than just romantic gestures is effort. Efforts can look different for everyone based on everyone’s individual preferences and circumstances, but it can be done. For example, for a couple trying to save money, instead of going to a fancy restaurant
ADVICE FOR BROKE COLLEGE STUDENTS
Sweet savings
BY HIMA THUMMALA ‘26
With it being Valentine’s season, it means giving to your loved ones. This time of year can bring happiness and positivity, but it can also bring an empty wallet. Prices of gifts can be expensive, meaning that it can result in spending a lot more than you would like to. Although, this does not mean that expensive gifts are the only way to go this Valentine’s Day, and it is important to remind yourself about the importance of quality gift giving rather than just costly ones. So what exactly makes a present meaningful, maybe it’s something that your loved one likes, or
maybe it’s something that you know that they will appreciate. But sometimes, even that can result in having to empty your wallet. So, what’s the other inexpensive but still meaningful option? Making the gifts! It may seem tedious and time-consuming, but there are a lot of easy and quick ideas so continue reading to start making some easy but thoughtful gifts!
The first idea is to bake something! Sweet treats are something that is loved by many and can be simple and affordable to make! Even if you aren’t a chef, with just a recipe and a few ingredients, you can make something your loved one will be sure to love. Some ideas are cookies, cakes, or even just super easy chocolate-covered strawberries. Presentation is key, so make sure to package your homemade sweet treat in a way that shows your Valentine’s Day spirit! Another idea is a Valentine’s Day card. Store
bought cards are found at most convenience or grocery stores, but the best way to show your care for your loved one is to make one yourself. Now, you don’t have to be an amazing artist, but as long as you have a good idea for a theme and use some fun colors, it can really be a great gift. And with a heartfelt and meaningful message inside, it can really show someone how much they mean to you. And also, it’s very cheap! All you need is a piece of paper and some colors, and you’re good to go. Next, you can make a playlist. For those who are music lovers and have specific artists that you and your loved one share, creating a playlist that is full of thought and care can mean a lot to someone. The best part about this is that it does not require much money or time, but it does require a decent amount of effort. It is important to make a playlist that your loved one will be able to find meaningful and not
together, they could make a cute heart-shaped pizza and prepare the ingredients that would display effort to their partner. On the flip side, for a couple that doesn’t get to spend a lot of time together due to busy schedules or long distances, making the time to see each other by planning an elaborate date would be the perfect move. Even if you don’t have so much time or money, doing something small, like writing them a heartfelt letter, is significantly more meaningful than just buying something.
Overall, Valentine’s Day is special and should definitely be an enjoyable day for both you and your partner. All of the things above just give a glimpse into what I think most women would appreciate. However, one final thing I’d love to say on this topic is that the advice listed above goes far beyond just this one day. Caring for your partner, understanding them, and doing things to make them happy is a long-term goal for any relationship. It takes effort, but seeing the smile on their face and the extra happiness they feel when you tailor it to them is simply unbeatable.
just see it as a couple of random songs added to a playlist. But if they have a passion for music and you choose the correct songs that have value to both of you, it can make their Valentine’s Day special. Although these are just a few ideas, there are so many other ways that you can create presents for an affordable price. If you are confused about what to make, it is important to consider your strengths and what your loved one likes. These are the two main factors that could be considered in your gift-making process. It will ensure that you are able to make the gift that you can be proud of and enjoy making, such as a painter making a painting, and your loved one can find joy in, such as a painting of their pet. As long as your present is caring and thoughtful, it will be sure to make someone’s Valentine’s Day!
GRAPHIC GENERATED BY KEVIN CASTNER JR. USING CHATGPT 4O
ROVING REPORTER
By Rafael Lee Li and Mia Petrolino
“What is your go-to pickup line?”
Awa M M Kah ‘25
“Heyyy. I literally never picked anything up in my life. I just chill.”
Zeynep Alta ‘26
“I’m just mean. Don’t tell my boyfriend I said that.”
Joseph Holland ‘27
“No pick-up line, only complete love and respect.”
Gavin Ruby ‘27
profile and hope for the best”
Emily Kang ‘28 “I... I… I just stutter.”
Ella Kraver ‘28
“Are you from Tennessee? Cause you’re the only ten I see.”
Alex Wu ‘26 “Do
Angel Todorov ‘26
“Why did the chicken cross the road? To come to you because you’re pretty.”
