We write Stevens history
Another day, another water main break in Hoboken
BY SERENA PANUCCI, STAFF WRITER
On February 18, Stevens students were unsurprised by yet another water main break in Jersey City. This latest break disrupted many operations on campus, forcing classes to run remotely last Tuesday and Wednesday. The rupture was due to fluctuations in water pres
sure during maintenance activities conducted by Veolia, the operators of the local water system. These pressure changes were said to have likely compromised “the integrity of the aging infrastructure,” resulting in the break.
The water main break occurred Tuesday morning, leading to immediate water pressure issues and contamination concerns.
Some Hoboken schools announced a 90-minute delay and opened their doors late as a result of the water issues. Stevens sent out an email to all students announcing that all classes would be held remotely and stating that water facilities all over campus were not operational. Portable restroom facilities were installed throughout campus near Palmer Circle and
Class of 2024 Career Outcomes Report showcases immense success from recent graduates
BY EVAN PAPAGOERGE, HEAD COPYEDITOR
Stevens recently unveiled its Undergraduate Class of 2024 Career Outcomes Report, highlighting the strong career prospects for its graduates. The annual report showcases key statistics on employment rates, salaries, and continuing education, reaffirming the university’s commitment to preparing students for successful careers. The overall career outcomes rate for the Class of 2024 is 96.8%. Of the 682 graduates who reported their outcomes, 59% have secured full-time employment, while 37.8% have opted to continue their education. A small percentage, 3.2%, are still seeking opportunities. The average starting salary for employed graduates is $84,800, reflecting the high demand for Stevens graduates across various industries.
Work arrangements for employed graduates are diverse, with 49% working in hybrid settings, 44% in-person, and 7% fully remote. Geographic distribution remains broadly consistent with previous years, with
71% of graduates securing positions in the New York City metropolitan area. The remaining graduates have found opportunities in other regions of the United States, including the South (11%), Northeast (10%), West (4%), and Midwest (3%), while 1% have taken positions internationally.
Employers of Stevens graduates span a variety of industries, with companies such as Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan Chase, Lockheed Martin, and Amazon among the many hiring multiple graduates. The most popular industries for employment include finance (23%), engineering services (11%), business consulting (9%), technology and telecommunications (9%), and healthcare and medical fields (8%). A closer look at career outcomes by program reveals distinct trends across disciplines. Engineering graduates maintain strong prospects, with a career outcomes rate of 97%. Of them, 54% are employees, while 43% are continuing their education. The average salary for engineering graduates is $80,300, with electrical engineers earning the highest average at $88,700. General Dynamics Electric Boat,
L3Harris Technologies, and Turner Construction are top employers.
In the sciences, 78% of graduates have opted for further education, while 18% have secured employment, resulting in a career outcomes rate of 96%. Mathematics graduates report the highest average salary in this group, at $83,300. Many science graduates are entering the healthcare, insurance, and finance sectors.
Computer science and cybersecurity are among the most lucrative, with a 95% career outcomes rate. 74% of graduates are employed, while 21% have chosen further education. The average salary in this field is $91,600, with cybersecurity graduates earning slightly more at $94,200. Leading employers include technology firms, financial institutions, and government agencies.
Business students also demonstrate strong outcomes, with a 99% career outcomes rate. Among them, 64% have jobs, while 35% pursue further studies. The average salary for business graduates is $87,400, with quantitative finance
SEE JOBS PAGE 3
Castle Point Hall, the operating hours of dining facilities were altered, athletic centers closed their doors, and all in-person scheduled events were postponed.
On Tuesday afternoon, Veolia, the water management company responsible for managing water distribution, maintenance, and emergency repairs, issued
SGA reads proclamation on Stevens Divest From War Initiative
BY THE STUTE
Just over a month into the new administration of the Student Government Association (SGA), led by President Alexander Stanczak and Vice President of Operations Shane Mitchell, the SGA has read a proclamation regarding the Stevens Divest From War Initiative (SDFWI). Presented by Senator Osinachi Uga and by members James Hooker and Mohamed Bengabsia of the student body, this proclamation calls upon the Board of Trustees of the university to divest the school’s endowment from any companies or investments that violate the outlined principles of international law and human rights. The proclamation is accompanied by a proposal titled “Proposal for Stevens Institute of Technology’s Divestment and Dissociation from Violations of International Law and Human Rights,” which outlines the specifics of the divestment strategy.
To provide context, a proclamation is a type of bill that can be proposed by the SGA Senate, meant to represent the collective opinion of the Senate. Historically, proclamations voted on by the SGA have been rare, and usually elicit a response from the univer-
sity. Two have been made recently: the first calls for all undergraduate classes to be suspended on the day of the Innovation Expo, and the second endorses the student-led effort to rename Gianforte Family Hall. James Hooker, one of the writers of the bill and its accompanying proposal, shares that the school’s $318 million endowment funds scholarships and research, and therefore students deserve to know that their funding is coming from ethical places. Hooker clarifies the meaning of divestment as the selling of all financial assets and the disassociation from organizations that don’t meet the criteria in the policy statement for supporting the principles of the divestment criteria listed in the proposal:
Principle 1: Against Apartheid and Occupation
Principle 2: Against Genocide, Ethnic Cleansing, War Crimes, and other Crimes against Humanity
Principle 3: Against Weapons Development
Principle 4: Against Manufacturing Consent for Crimes Against Humanity
Principle 5: Against Complicity in Crimes Against Humanity Principle 6: Against Econ-
SEE WAR PAGE 2
NATIONAL NEWS
Trump fires Biden attorneys
BY JOSEPHINE CHOONG, STAFF WRITER
Recently, the new administration fired the attorneys appointed by the previous president. While it’s standard practice, the coordination for a successorship plan has led to uncertainty within the White House.
In a Truth Social post, Trump stated, “Over the past four years, the Department of Justice has been politicized like never before. Therefore, I have instructed the termination of ALL
remaining ‘Biden Era’ U.S. Attorneys. We must ‘clean house’ IMMEDIATELY, and restore confidence. America’s Golden Age must have a fair Justice System - THAT BEGINS TODAY!”
There are 93 U.S. attorneys, each responsible for the federal prosecutions within their judicial district. On February 13, the Biden-appointed attorneys received an email citing, “At the direction of President Donald J. Trump, I am writing to inform you that your position as U.S. Attorney is terminated, effective immediately.” Prior to the email, more than two dozen Biden attorneys remained on the post. Some terminations included San Diego-based Tara McGrath, Maryland-based Erek Barron, Northern California-based Ismail Ramsey, Seattle-based Tessa Gorman, and Western North Carolina-based Dena King. Many attorneys confirmed their departures with office-wide emails and LinkedIn posts. These dismissals came after the Justice Department
SEE BIDEN PAGE 3
Federal prosecutors attempt to drop corruption charges
BY TANYA AVADIA, BUSINESS MANAGER
In September 2024, New York City (NYC) Mayor Eric Adams was charged by federal prosecutors on several counts, including bribery, fraud, and violating campaign finance rules. These charges, brought against the holder of NYC’s highest public office, have sparked major controversy as the Department of Justice (DOJ), now under the leadership of President Trump, has attempted to dismiss the
against NYC mayor
case, leading to the resignation of eight federal prosecutors. The decision to drop the charges is still pending, as U.S. District Judge Dale Ho is currently reviewing the motion presented by the DOJ.
Eric Adams, a Democrat, became the mayor of NYC in 2021 after defeating Republican Curtis Sliwa in a landslide victory. In 2023, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York launched an investigation into Ad-
ams’ campaign to determine whether it had illegally received donations from the government of Turkey and other Turkish entities. The allegations claim that Adams accepted gifts, travel, and funds from Turkish nationals in exchange for political favors. One specific example is Adams directing the NYC Fire Department to approve a Turkish consulate building without proper inspection. To conceal these actions, Adams
SEE NYC PAGE 3
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Executive Board
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF.....................................ISABELLA ZIV ‘25
BUSINESS MANAGER...........................TANYA AVADIA ‘26
MANAGING EDITOR..............JEREMIAH CHINWENDU ‘25
LAYOUT EDITOR...............................JIYA JAISINGHANI ‘27
OUTREACH CHAIR.........................................AVA WANG ‘25
DIGITAL MANAGER..................................ABBY JACOBS ‘27
SECRETARY.........................................NICOLE GIARDINO ‘25
HEAD COPY EDITOR....................EVAN PAPAGEORGE ‘26
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NEWS EDITOR........................................BEN KNOBLOCH ‘25
SCIENCE EDITOR.................................RIYANA PHADKE ‘27
OPINION EDITOR...................................TASHA KHOSLA ‘25
SPORTS EDITOR.................................CAMRYN WINANT ‘28
FEATURES EDITOR..................................TIANNA SPITZ ‘27
PULSE EDITOR.......................................MIA PETROLINO ‘25
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ASSIS. LAYOUT EDITOR...........................SHREYA ROY ‘27
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omies of Crimes Against Humanity
When asked about what the successful implementation of this initiative looks like in their opinion, Hooker stated that they would like to see:
• an official statement of support for divestment from the SGA Senate.
• the inclusion of the following divestment policy into the Investment Policy Statement by the Board of Trustees: “Stevens Institute of Technology is committed to divesting its endowment of entities that enable or facilitate human rights violations or violations of international law including illegal occupations, apartheid practices, and plausible acts of genocide.”
• the creation of the Committee on Investor Responsibility (CIR), which would consist of students, staff, and faculty who work in conjunction with the Investment Committee of the Board of Trustees and the Outsourced CIO Goldman Sachs to ensure that the divestment criteria are being met.
This proclamation and proposal have been supported by various student organizations, students, and outside organizations, including formal endorsements from Stevens Amnesty and Ceasefire Now New Jersey.
The Stute had the opportunity to interview Senator Osinachi Uga regarding her motivations behind proposing the proclamation to the SGA Senate. “I decided to help because the proposal had a lot of merit,” Uga stated. She cited the large number of student organizations who have come together to work on the proposal and her subsequent recognition of the effort as something with which a lot of students agree.
In addition to the proclamation and proposal, a student petition in favor of SDFWI has been floated around campus. At the time of writing this article, the petition had 518 undergraduate signatures, of which 497, or 96%, support the initiative. This represents approxi-
heim and Shelly Pertsovsky, respectively the President and Vice President of Stevens Hillel, who spoke on behalf of Hillel and the Jewish student community at Stevens. Erdheim and Pertsovsky expressed concerns that the proposal disproportionately focuses on Israel, noting that it is the only country explicitly mentioned, which they believe alienates Jewish students. According to Erdheim and Pertsovsky, many members of Hillel and the school’s Jewish community at large have raised concerns about the references to Israel and fear the implications of such an initiative getting passed.
Regarding the upcoming vote for the proclamation, Erdheim states, “I am not completely against the idea of divestment under the provisions of human rights violations. However, I am not at all for the proposal as it is currently written. The writers claimed to be unbiased, but this is very clearly not the case as Israel is the only country mentioned. I hope that this can be an opportunity of growth for our campus and that this proposal can be rewritten in an unbiased and more effective manner.”
The discussion regarding the proclamation took place during last week’s Senate meeting on Sunday evening. The meeting began with a public discussion on the initiative, followed by a presentation from Uga, Hooker, and Bengabsia. Their presentation outlined the proposal, referencing the six principles of the divestment criteria, the establishment of the Committee on Investor Responsibility (CIR), and a timeline for implementing the proposed changes.
After the presentation, a public forum, and a Q&A session, SGA members engaged in their own discussion. A key point of contention was the perceived political nature of the proposal, particularly its references to Israel. Senators questioned whether it was appropriate for the SGA to endorse a controversial stance that wouldn’t be supported by all students. Additionally, concerns were raised about the logistical feasibility of SDFWI, as the SGA does not have direct control over the Board of
and the difficulty in determining ethical boundaries that aren’t clearly defined. The proposal also stated that Stevens’ endowment is mostly invested in exchange-traded funds (ETFs), which are bundles of multiple assets, making it challenging to determine whether each bundle is ethical based on its constituent investments.
Several representatives questioned how the proclamation would impact the SGA and school’s relationship with the Board of Trustees, alumni, and donors. Some argued that passing the proclamation could strain these relationships, making it harder for the SGA to advocate for future changes. At other universities, divestment proposals have led to faculty resignations and donor withdrawals, raising concerns about potential financial impacts at Stevens. However, others contended that aligning investments with ethical standards could also attract new financial support.
Supporters of the proclamation pointed to student backing, noting that 12.4% of the student body had signed the petition, with 96% of those signatories in favor. They argued that this level of support should be taken into account.
At the conclusion of the lengthy discussion, a motion was passed to temporarily table the bill, allowing for amendments to be made to the proposal and effectively shifting the vote on the proclamation to this upcoming week’s Senate meeting. Pertsovsky, who spoke at the Senate meeting about Hillel’s concerns regarding bias against Jewish students, was frustrated by the decision to table the vote, viewing the delay as an unnecessary prolonging of the issue. Hooker shared that supporters of the SDFWI will be working with the SGA throughout the week to discuss potential amendments ahead of the upcoming Senate vote this weekend.
The Stute discussed the outcomes of a proclamation vote with SGA President Stanczak. If the vote were to pass, Stanczak states that “as President of the Student Government Association, I will deliver both the Proclamation of the Stevens Divest from War Initiative and the accompanying Proposal gy’s Divestment and Dissociation from Violations of International ident Farvardin and our Board of Trustees.” If the vote fails to pass, tinue to serve the student body and
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a precautionary boil water advisory for Hoboken residents, as required by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection. Residents were advised to boil water for at least one minute before consumption, including for uses such as drinking, cooking, brushing teeth, and washing food. Water used for bathing and cleaning did not require boiling. This measure was necessary because water pressure fell below the recommended levels during repairs, potentially allowing contaminants to enter the system. The boil water advisory made it very difficult for Stevens students to have access to drinking water, so free water bottles were made available for students, staff, and facilities all around campus.
On Tuesday evening, Hudson County Executive Craig Guy met with Hoboken municipal officials
to provide clean, potable water to the residents of Jersey City and Hoboken. “Hudson County immediately jumped into action to help bring clean drinking water to our residents,” Guy said.
On Wednesday morning, classes for all students at Stevens were still held remotely, as many facilities on campus still did not have access to clean water. “While there may be intermittent water availability, campus water service remains unreliable,” Stevens emails warned students.
On Thursday, the damaged 36inch main was repaired, and at this point, classes were finally held in person again, as the water was restored to most buildings, but the boil-water advisory remained to ensure the safety of Hoboken and Jersey City residents. Later that day, after conducting thorough testing to ensure water safety, the boil water advisory for Hoboken was lifted. Residents were notified that normal water usage could resume and that water was restored city-wide.
Students had many thoughts about the water main break and its impact on campus life. Many expressed frustration over the frequent infrastructure issues affecting Stevens. Some students enjoyed the unexpected remote days, while others found the disruption inconvenient, particularly those who rely on on-campus facilities for meals, exercise, and study spaces.
The recent water main break was yet another reminder of the ongoing infrastructure challenges that impact both Stevens and the overall Hoboken community. While the university responded quickly to minimize disruptions, the incident raised concerns among students and residents about the reliability of local water systems and the likelihood of future interruptions. As Jersey City and Hoboken continue to experience these issues, many are left wondering what long-term solutions, if any, will be implemented to prevent another widespread disruption.
TIM GRIFFIN FOR THE STUTE
Stephen Pachucki
Mia Petrolino
Emily Martinez
JOBS
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majors commanding the highest salaries at $91,100. The finance sector remains the dominant employer for these graduates, hiring 50% of business school alums.
The Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences programs report an 81% employment rate and a 14% continuation rate, resulting in a 95% career outcomes rate. Graduates in this field have an average starting salary of $63,900, with music and technology majors earning an average of $61,700. Many find opportunities in the media, entertainment, and healthcare industries.
Women Stevens graduates have
a 98% career outcomes rate, with 61% employed and 37% pursuing further education. Their average starting salary is $84,100, and they have secured positions at major companies such as Google, Goldman Sachs, and Lockheed Martin.
The report highlights the importance of experiential learning at Stevens. 82% of employed graduates have completed at least one internship, co-op, or summer research experience before graduation. This hands-on experience has proven invaluable in securing full-time employment.
As Stevens continues to provide top-tier education and career support, the Class of 2024’s strong career outcomes reflect the university’s dedication to preparing students for success in a competitive job market.
(DOJ) gave all attorneys two business days to justify retaining the prosecutors hired in the previous two years who weren’t focused on Trump’s priorities like immigration, national security, and public safety. Potential hires who don’t fit into these priorities include those who specialize in white-collar, civil fraud, and civil rights investigations.
allegedly falsified documentation to make it appear as though he was self-funding his campaign. During court hearings, Adams pleaded not guilty to all charges.
However, in February 2025, the Trump administration pushed the DOJ to dismiss the case. Acting Deputy Attorney General Emil Bove argued that the charges against Adams were politically motivated and hindered his ability to continue his work as NYC’s mayor, particularly on key issues such as immigration and crime. This move sparked massive backlash, leading to several resignations within the Southern District of New York, including that of Acting U.S. At-
torney Danielle Sassoon, who was in charge of the case. Strongly opposing its dismissal, Sassoon stated, “The reasons advanced by Mr. Bove for dismissing the indictment are not ones I can in good faith defend as in the public interest and as consistent with the principles of impartiality and fairness that guide my decision-making.”
Critics of the case’s dismissal argue that it represents a quid pro quo, suggesting Adams may have struck a deal with the Trump administration to have the charges dropped. One example cited is Adams, who remains NYC’s mayor, granting Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) access to city facilities and resources. This aligns with one of the Trump administration’s key agenda items— cracking down on illegal immigration—making it a plausible
negotiation point. However, Adams has denied making any deals with President Trump and continues to argue that the charges were politically driven from the outset. Judge Ho has yet to decide on
the DOJ’s motion to dismiss the charges, so they remain in place for the time being. Given the severity of the case, the decision will take time, with the next hearing scheduled for mid-March. NYC CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
Since Cinton’s presidency, it has been standard practice to remove the previous administration’s attorneys. Biden had previously removed Trump’s attorneys in 2021 and Trump removed Obama’s attorneys in 2017. However, the difference this time is the lack of coordination between the White House and the DOJ’s Executive Office for a successorship plan on who would sign court paper fillings.
Various prominent government officials have resigned after thousands of federal workers have been laid off. Most notably, seven federal prosecutors in Manhattan and Washington have resigned as Deputy Attorney General Emil Bove ordered them to drop charges against NYC Mayor Eric Adams, who faces charges of bribery and campaign finance violations.
Moreover, Denise Cheung, a federal prosecutor in Washington, D.C., resigned on February 18. Interim U.S. attorney Ed Martin asked her to step down after she refused to order a bank to freeze an unnamed contractor’s accounts. The freeze order is believed to have stemmed from Lee Zeldin, the administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, to take the $20 billion grants for clean energy and other environmental projects from the Biden administration. Cheung claimed that there was insufficient evidence and strange timing. She also questioned if the officials were attempting to “bypass” the usual chain of command by intervening directly on the matter.
Currently, Trump has begun replacing attorneys with his own nominees. These include Southern Florida-based Jason Reding Quiñones and Washington-based Ed Martin. The latter is controversial because of his support and funding for the January 6 rioters. These nominees are waiting to be approved by the Senate.
o u t d i s h e s w i t h m y s t e r y i n g r e d i e n t s a n d r a c i n g a g a i n s t t h e c l o c k
C h e e r o n
PHOTO COURTESY OF AP PHOTO/YUKI IWAMURA
BLACK HISTORY MONTH
How techno-racism is the hidden biases of AI
BY JEREMIAH CHINWENDU, MANAGING EDITOR
Technology is often seen as the great equalizer, capable of transcending social and political biases to provide information and opportunities to all. Yet, the systems we design are frequently prone to their own forms of racial discrimination, shaped by the biases, assumptions, and systemic inequities of the societies in which they are created. This phenomenon, known as techno-racism, refers to the ways in which technology perpetuates or exacerbates racial inequalities. Algorithms used in hiring, policing, or lending decisions can inadvertently encode racial biases. For example, facial recognition systems have been shown to misidentify individuals with darker skin tones at significantly higher rates. These examples highlight how technology, far from neutrality, can reinforce and deepen societal divides.
Language learning models (LLM) are a type of AI that is used to recognize and generate text based on programmed speech patterns. The Stanford Institute for Human-Centered AI contextualizes the extent of LLMs as they are “incorporated into decision-making systems for employment, academic assessment, and legal accountability.” A study published in the journal Nature illustrated that these models can exhibit racial biases, particularly when processing text written in different dialects, such as African American English (AAE) versus Standard American English (SAE). Researchers tested LLMs through matched guise probing, meaning they gave AI text and speech samples and asked them to make decisions about what attributes the person with the dialects had. In addition, they had AI make decisions about job acceptances, legal judgments, and essay grading based on the traits they attributed to the individuals with these dialects.
The results showed that LLMs consistently interpreted AAE more negatively, leading to unfair outcomes—like lower hiring recommendations, poorer grades, and harsher legal judgments— compared to identical content written in SAE. When asked to describe the appearances of people based on the dialects, the algorithms generated descriptions that aligned with historically racist stereotypes, often portraying AAE speakers as less intelligent, less professional, or even more criminal compared to SAE speakers. This bias reflects harmful stereotypes present in the data used to train these models.
The study is significant because it highlights how AI systems, if not carefully designed, can perpetuate
Stevens’ Black trailblazers
of yesterday and today
racial inequalities in high-stakes areas like hiring, education, and the legal system. To address this, researchers recommend using more diverse training data, developing tools to detect biases, and adding human oversight to ensure fairness. This work underscores the urgent need to make AI systems equitable and free from racial prejudice as their influence continues to grow in decision-making processes that impact millions of lives.
The algorithms we use to make objective decisions about our lives are responsible for perpetuating racist assumptions about people. This happens because these algorithms are often trained on data that reflects historical and societal biases, such as associating certain dialects, names, or neighborhoods with negative stereotypes. This leads them to make decisions that hurt minorities by perpetuating cycles of poverty and limiting chances for financial growth. For instance, mortgage algorithms help decide rates for loan applicants. Most of these algorithms are trained on data taken at a time when African Americans weren’t allowed to own property.
“In 2019, a study by UC Berkeley researchers found that mortgage algorithms show the same bias to African American and Hispanic borrowers as human loan officers,” costing minorities nearly half a billion dollars in loans each year, reports the Syracuse University Journal of Science and Technology Law.
Techno-racism is more covert, mostly going unnoticed by those who are affected by prejudice-trained algorithms. From facial recognition software misidentifying minorities as criminals to social media algorithms flagging content creators of color at a disproportionate rate, the impact of biased technology is pervasive and deeply ingrained in the digital systems we rely on daily. Unlike overt forms of discrimination, techno-racism operates in the background, shaping opportunities, perceptions, and even life-altering decisions without those affected always realizing it. As technology continues to occupy more and more areas of our lives, the best way to stop techno-racism is by demanding transparency in how algorithms are designed, holding companies accountable for biased outcomes, and prioritizing diversity in the teams that build and regulate these systems. This includes auditing datasets for biases, creating tools to detect and correct unfair practices, and involving marginalized communities in the development process. By addressing these issues head-on, we can ensure that technology serves as a tool for equity rather than a hidden force of oppression.
BY JOSEPHINE CHOONG, STAFF
WRITER
Throughout the years, Stevens has had an extensive history of Black alumni as pioneers and innovators of engineering. As we celebrate Black History Month, it’s important to look through Stevens’ own past and celebrate our alumni’s accomplishments and impact on the Stevens community.
The first Black alumnus, Randolph Montrose Smith, graduated from Stevens in 1924. While he was originally from Barbados, he came to NYC when he was only two years old. He spent his childhood in Harlem during the Harlem Renaissance. During his years as a student, he commuted from Harlem and played for one of Stevens’ final football teams. After he graduated, he became a civil engineer for the Manhattan subway system. To honor him, Stevens had a scholarship in his name.
The second Black student to graduate from Stevens was Dr. James “Jim” Sylvester Braxton in 1937. During his time at Stevens, he was consistently on the dean’s list, a member of Tau Beta Pi, and in 1937, was admitted to the Jersey City Chapter of the distinguished Alpha Phi Alpha, the first fraternity for Black men in America (Stevens’ chapter would be established in 2019).
While America was still recovering from the Great Depression and jobs were in limited supply for Black Americans, Braxton secured a job in Lockwood-Greene Engineers. Later on, he worked with Samuel Plato, a prominent Black architect, to build the Langston Stadium Residence Halls. Those temporary buildings would provide housing, recreation, food, and medical facilities for 900 women in the wartime labor force during World War II.
Moreover, Braxton was active in the Civil Rights Movement and in 1966, joined Dr. MLK Jr’s march in protesting housing discrimination in Chicago. He believed in affordable and equitable housing, and it remained a central theme
throughout his career. Throughout his life, Braxton received many honors, including a Julius Rosenwald fellowship, an alumni achievement award for his work in the government sector, and an honorary doctorate from Stevens.
Another notable forerunner was Sheila Banks, the first Black woman to graduate from Stevens. Banks was praised by President Kenneth Rogers for her perseverance and desire for acceptance beyond race and gender. She was a member of the Society of Women Engineers, a secretary of the Black Student Union (BSU), and played violin and sang in the Glee Club. In 1978, shortly after her graduation, she accepted a technical position for Westinghouse Electric Corporation and, later, was promoted to sales engineer.
Today, Stevens’ Black alumni have continued to make their mark on the world. One recent graduate was Joelle Hinds in 1993. She was born in NYC and attended the STEP Bridge summer program before enrolling at Stevens at the young age of 16. Currently, she is an Alumni Trustee on Stevens’ Board of Trustees and is an appointed member of the Texas Bar Association Grievance Committee.
Another alumnus is Obiefuna Okafor who was named the 2021 Black Engineer of the Year (BEYA) for Outstanding Technical Contributions to Industry. Okafor was internally nominated by his company, Corning Incorporated, for the reputable award. Some of his projects include creating a ceramic substrate for catalytic converters to control air pollution within cars. Additionally, Coring’s president notes Okafor’s exceptional work during the uncertainties of the pandemic. Okafor currently works as a Senior Project Leader and Capital Portfolio Manager and is responsible for managing 20 projects. Outside of his job, Okafor serves as a senior member of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers and is on the Board of Trustees at New Horizons Community Charter School, NJ.
Throughout the years, many Black organizations have continued to be an active part of our campus community. For example, BSU was founded in 1968 and is dedicated to fostering awareness, community, and culture. They celebrated culture in events like Black Atlantic and have helped fundraise for the future of Black girls in technology.
Another organization is Stevens’ chapter of the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE). They held events like Sweets and Solidarity to support Sudan and Congo and Fiyah Side Chill, where they discussed cultural history and Black movements.
It’s crucial to recognize the achievements of Black alumni of yesterday and the accomplishments of Black alumni today.
AS WE CONTINUE INTO THE FUTURE, WE SHOULD EMBARK ON A JOURNEY THAT CELEBRATES AND ENCOURAGES EVERYONE.
record at Golden Bear Invite and West Point Tune-Up
BY CAMRYN WINANT, SPORTS EDITOR
On February 21, the men’s and women’s track and field teams ran at the Golden Bear Invitational hosted by Kutztown, and on the 22, they attended the West Point TuneUp in West Point, NY. On the first day, the Ducks saw opponents like Drew, FDU-Florham, Immaculata, Kutztown, Lancaster Bible, Messiah, Muhlenberg, and Swarthmore, and on the second day they went up against Army, Vassar, and Merchant Marine Academy.
At the Golden Bear Invitational, juniors Stephanie Ryazanova and Alexis Merola both got wins. Merola notched her win in pole vault at 3.35m, .01m behind the school record, and Ryazanova in the 55-meter hurdles at 9.2 seconds. Ryazanova also ran in the 55m, taking second with a time of 7.85.
The men’s team was also suc-
cessful in the 55m, with sophomore Doug Winant notably setting the school record at 6.6 seconds in the prelims, landing him second place. In the finals, he ended in fourth place in 6.73 seconds, followed by sophomore Tyler Hackett at fifth with a 6.75 time and junior Brandon Kiefer in sixth at 6.95. Their events continued, with senior Rai Bindra placing fourth and fifth in the 400m and 200m, respectively, first-year Calvin Gibson taking fifth, and Kiefer scoring a victory in the 55-hurdles. In the field events, graduate student Andrew Anantharajah, senior Cullen Grady, and first-year David Huang all landed top-eight marks in the pole vault.
The next day, the teams traveled to the Army to run at the West Point Tune-Up. Sophomore Kaitlyn Adams, graduate student Allie Canciani, and junior Isabel Vogel all scored wins, with Adams in the 1000-meter, Canciani in the high
jump, and Vogel in the 400-meter. Along with the high jump, Canciani placed fifth in the 800-meter. Firstyear Anya Sadowski, junior Gianna Adamo, and sophomore Breona Pizzuta all finished on the podium at third, with Sadowksi in the 400m, Adamo in the 1000m, and Pizzuta in the high jump. Senior Samantha Rozek ran a sixth place 11:28.01 time in the 3000m, followed by first-year Catherine Bondi at eighth. Pizzuta also took part in the shot put and the weight throw, with first-year Lillian Lovelsmith also participating in the shot put. Many of the guys notched podium times, with first-year Enrico Parella getting a victory in the 1000m, followed by first-year Matthew Hodorowski in second. Sophomore Ryan Paradine took third in the 800m, and senior Jake Porco and junior Caleb Stephen took second and fifth in the mile, respectively. The 4x400m team of grad-
uate students Jake Aylmer, Frank Orlando, Liam Concannon, and Paradine secured the final third place of the day. In the 3000m, first-year Cillian Griffin took ninth, Adamo on his tail at 11th. The Ducks were also successful in the 800m, including Aylmer at 7th (2:02.77), Concannon at eighth (2:03.25), first-year Kevin Medrow in ninth (2:04.32), and graduate student Bryan Onody (2:05.54) and Orlando (2:07.29) coming in at 10th and 13th. For the field events, junior Manny Vega competed in the shot put and weight throw, with senior Brandon Fox in the weight throw with him. Ending those events, first-years Connor Efinger and Bruno Santana-Ferro participated in the high jump.
The next time the Ducks will be seen running will be at the two-day Middle Atlantic Conference Championship Meet, starting February 28, in Reading, PA.
Men’s Volleyball takes 13th win of the 2025 season
BY ABBY JACOBS, DIGITAL MANAGER
Men’s Volleyball now stands at a 13-2 record for the 2025 season after a 3-1 triumph over Baruch College on Thursday, February 20.
The season began for the Ducks on Sunday, January 12, at St. Joseph ’s-Long Island, where they swept the Eagles 3-0 (25-16, 25-18, 25-21). They continued their uncontested win streak for the next four games against Nichols College, New Jersey City University, Kean University, and Rutgers-Newark.
The team continued onto the FrogJump Invitational in Kenosha, WI, on Friday, January 31, where they encountered their first challenge of the season against Carthage College. Winning the first two sets 26-24 and 25-21, the Firebirds fought for 25-22 and 25-15 victories over the Ducks in sets three and four. Pulling back in the 5th, they were able to outlast Carthage 15-2
for their sixth win of the season.
The next day, the team took on Juniata College and Baldwin Wallace University, where they split with a respective 3-0 loss and a 3-2 win.
A 3-0 win against Hunter College on Tuesday, February 4, pulled the team back up to a 2-0 win streak before they fell to New York University (NYU) 1-3. This is Men’s Volleyball’s 15th loss against NYU, having won 23 of their matchups since 2003 and breaking their five-win streak over the Bobcats, held from February 23, 2022, to Valentine’s Day, 2024. Since then, the team has managed another five straight victories over Hobart College, Wentworth Institute of Technology, Drew University, SUNY New Paltz, and most recently, Baruch College.
Their recent victory was their fourth consecutive game against the Bearcats, where the Ducks saw a two-set victory margin (finishing 3-1). The Bearcats took a rough 8-25 loss in the first set, lowered the mar-
gin in the second (21-25), and took the third 25-22. In the fourth, the teams traded points until two attack errors from Baruch put Stevens up 8-5. The Ducks used this lead to secure a 25-18 fourth-set victory. Notable players included sophomore Ryan Schmid who totaled 12 kills and four blocks, junior Phillip Bone with 11 kills, and graduate Carver Weirick with 9. Both Bone and Weirick managed an ace and two blocks. Catch Men’s Volleyball next in Canavan Arena on Friday, February 28, for their next match as well as their first of the Middle Atlantic Conference Freedom play. The team will take on Misericordia University at 7 p.m. and then Springfield College in a non-conference match on Saturday, March 1, at 6 p.m.
STEVENS SCOREBOARD
BY JEREMIAH CHINWENDU, MANAGING EDITOR
Mice communicate using ultrasonic calls at frequencies humans can’t hear, producing a range of vocalizations for social interactions, mating, and territorial behavior. Scientists have recently discovered a gene variant found in all humans that in mice affects their communication. This gene, NOVA1, plays a crucial role in neural development and synaptic regulation, influencing how brain cells connect and process information.
Robert Darnell, a neuroscientist at Rockefeller University in New York City, first discovered and cloned the gene in 1993 “when his team linked it to an autoimmune disorder that caused severe movement problems in people,” writes Ewen Callaway of Nature Darnell’s research has since revealed that NOVA1 plays a crucial role in neural development by regulating RNA-binding proteins that influence synaptic plasticity — the ability of neurons to form and modify connections. The NOVA1 protein controls the expression of other brain-activated genes.
The team first theorized that the gene FOXP2, which codes for transcription factors found in early brain development, was the genetic driver for language comprehension. “People with mutations in this gene exhibit severe
speech defects, including the inability to coordinate lip and mouth movements with sound,” writes Rockefeller University. This gene was also found in Neanderthals, suggesting that it arose from a common ancestor. For a while, it was believed that this gene was involved in language development, but some findings dispute its role, as studies in mice and birds suggest it may be more broadly linked to motor control rather than language-specific functions.
Darnell first suspected NOVA1’s role in language when he treated a boy who had only one functional copy of the gene and exhibited both language and movement difficulties. His research has since shown that disruptions in NOVA1 can lead to neurological impairments, affecting motor function, cognition, and potentially speech. More recently, scientists have investigated how variations in NOVA1 influence vocalization in mice, providing new insights into the genetic foundations of human language and the evolutionary changes that distinguish human speech from animal communication.
For this study, Yoko Tajima used CRISPR gene editing to modify the NOVA1 gene in mice, making it mimic the version found in humans. Mice with the altered gene exhibited more complex vocalization patterns than those with the original gene, suggesting that
NOVA1 plays a role in shaping communication. Further analysis revealed changes in neural activity within brain regions associated with vocal learning and motor control, hinting at a deeper link between NOVA1 and the evolution of speech. These findings suggest that the human version of NOVA1 may have contributed to the development of more sophisticated speech abilities in our ancestors–Neanderthals and Denisovans–by influencing neural circuitry and communication behaviors.
The discovery of NOVA1’s role in vocalization adds a new layer to our understanding of the genetic foundations of human speech. While FOXP2 was once considered the primary genetic driver of language, emerging research suggests that a network of genes, including NOVA1, may have played a crucial role in shaping the neural circuits that enable complex communication. By studying how genetic modifications affect vocalization in mice, scientists are uncovering valuable clues about how human speech evolved and how certain genetic variations contribute to language-related disorders. As research continues, NOVA1 may not only provide insight into the origins of human communication but also open doors for potential therapies for speech and neurological conditions, further bridging the gap between genetics and language.
High-speed lasers write data inside glass
BY ERIN MCGEE, OPINION COLUMNIST
Storing data has been a challenge for decades. From storing information on magnetic tape in the form of cassettes and VHS to storing them on CDs, to USBs and hard drives, there has always been a new way to keep important data that we need for a long time safe. But there is a problem with keeping this data long term. Magnetic tape is easily damaged by heat, humidity, and moisture; CDs can break with a single scratch, and hard drives can be corrupted and take up a lot of space.
The solution? Glass. Researchers for Microsoft in Cambridge, in the UK have been researching a method of imprinting terabytes of data on a small piece of glass. Project Silica, as it is called, has the goal of reinventing how we store our information.
The process starts with the square, napkin-sized piece of glass. Over the set, a robotic arm with a high-speed femtosecond laser etches a dot pattern so small that it is invisible to the naked eye. The intense power from the laser pulse only affects a single layer of the glass and is extremely precise, creating a tiny
divot in the glass called a voxel. Different types of these dots represent 1s and 0s in binary and, therefore, can encode information. Reading the data requires a high-powered microscope. This allows scientists to view the glass sheets, which are then fed to a program that translates the divots into the data we can understand. Scientists have been pairing this with a machine learning algorithm that can process the microscope image and reproduce the data that is on the glass rapidly.
Currently, each slim plate of glass can hold seven terabytes of data (about two million books of information). It also lasts far longer than our other forms of long-term data storage. The glass is resistant to the kind of decay and damage that can affect CDs and magnetic tapes. The glass plates are also surprisingly durable. Since the data is written on an inside layer, it is resistant to scratches, high temperatures, and damage. Even if a plate broke or got lost, researchers have worked on making the data as redundant as possible, spreading it across several other pieces of glass. For these reasons, researchers predict that these plates could last for
What is a migraine?
BY TANYA AVADIA, BUSINESS MANAGER
Have you ever had such a terrible headache that you wondered whether it could be something more? Well, maybe it is a migraine. There are some key differences between a headache and a migraine, and the latter is so much more severe in nature. New research has shown that over a billion people worldwide suffer from migraines, which is a considerable amount. If it is such a common condition, it begs the question of what treatment opportunities are for this. Firstly, it is important to fully understand what a migraine is. It is a lot more complex than just a headache, as it can lead to debilitat-
ing symptoms such as light sensitivity, fatigue, brain fog, and nausea. The National Library of Medicine defines a migraine as “a recurring syndrome of headache associated with other symptoms of neurologic dysfunction in varying admixtures.” Migraines occur in two categories: restraint migraine and refractory migraine. To meet the condition for the restraint migraine, an individual must have failed at least three classes of preventative measures against migraines and have experienced eight or more sufferable headaches for three consecutive months without much improvement. The conditions for refractory migraine include having failed all preventative measures against migraines and having experienced
Tips for a happy, healthy life during Cancer Prevention Month
BY EVAN PAPAGEORGE, HEAD COPY EDITOR
February marks National Cancer Prevention Month, a dedicated period for raising awareness about proactive measures to reduce cancer risk. With nearly 40% of cancer cases and 44% of cancer-related deaths linked to preventable lifestyle choices, individuals have significant potential to influence their health outcomes through informed decisions.
While genetics play a role in cancer susceptibility, modifiable factors such as smoking, diet, physical activity, and exposure to carcinogens substantially impact cancer risk. Addressing these areas can lead to meaningful reductions in cancer incidence.
Smoking remains the leading cause of cancer and cancer-related deaths. Quitting smoking at any age can significantly decrease the risk of developing various cancers.
A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins supports overall health and prevents cancer. Incorporating fiber-rich foods, reducing red and processed meat consumption, and choosing healthy snacks like nuts and dried fruits are beneficial dietary adjustments.
such screenings, attendance rates have declined in recent years. Efforts are underway to encourage more individuals to participate in regular screenings to detect cancers earlier and improve survival rates.
There is a link between cancer and avoidable infections. The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine protects against cHPV-related cancers, including cervical and some head and neck cancers. Similarly, the hepatitis B vaccine can reduce the risk of liver cancer. Staying informed about and up-todate with recommended vaccinations is a proactive step in cancer prevention.
Engaging with community resources and support systems can enhance cancer prevention efforts. Organizations like the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) are committed to advancing cancer prevention research and education. They provide forums for communication and collaboration among scientists, healthcare professionals, and the public to promote awareness and preventive strategies.
millennia.
On top of these advantages, they are easy to store. The plates are thin and can be stacked extremely easily. Richard Black, director of the project, says there “would be even
tually [a library like this]...in every data center.” It’s also impossible to overwrite the data when accessing it with the microscope since only another high-power laser could affect the data.
One fascinating potential application of this is the Golden Record 2.0. The Golden Record is a set of two twelve-inch gold-plated discs currently on the Voyager 1 and 2 spacecraft, both of which are in in terstellar space and are the farthest human-made objects from Earth. With the purpose of sharing the sounds of humanity with any ad vanced civilization, the record con tains everything from Chuck Berry to Beethoven to a greeting from the UN. Researchers have discussed creating a new Golden Record us ing this technology, allowing us to send far more information into the universe using far less space. In fact, you can upload your own media to contribute to the Golden Record 2.0 project, preserving your own memories on glass.
Regular exercise helps maintain a healthy weight, which is crucial since obesity is a known risk factor for several cancers. You should engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity weekly. Limiting alcohol intake is advisable, as excessive consumption is associated with an increased risk of various cancers.
Opting for beverages like coffee and tea, which contain antioxidants, can be a healthier choice.
Early detection through regular screenings significantly improves treatment outcomes. For instance, mammograms can detect breast cancer at an early stage, increasing the chances of successful treatment. Despite the availability of
National Cancer Prevention Month is a reminder to evaluate personal health choices and make positive changes. Consider assessing personal risk by reflecting on lifestyle habits and family history to understand individual cancer risk factors. Implementing healthy habits such as adopting a nutritious diet, engaging in regular physical activity, avoiding tobacco, and limiting alcohol consumption can have a long-term impact. Scheduling screenings by consulting healthcare providers to determine appropriate cancer screenings based on age, gender, and risk factors is another vital step in early detection and prevention.
By taking proactive steps and raising awareness, individuals and communities can work together to reduce the burden of cancer and create a healthier future.
at least eight headache days for six months without improvement.
The recurring nature of this disorder showcases that it is cyclical and works in phases. There are three phases of a migraine cycle: premonitory phase, intense headache attack, and postdrome phase. The premonitory phase is marked by fatigue, nausea, and food cravings. These occur either days or hours before the oncoming migraine. Following this is when the headache attack occurs, which is the worst phase as it is the most painful experience. Lastly, in the postdrome phase, is when the headache finally ends, and the symptoms are depicted as being in a state of euphoria or depression. Studies have shown that while symptoms can differ per
individual, the underlying cause is the same: the brain’s hypersensitivity and the complexity of its parts. While migraines can be extremely difficult to manage, breakthroughs in scientific innovation have allowed it to be treatable. In the olden ages, migraines were considered untreatable, and common methods used to lessen the pain included attaching a crocodile sculpture to the head to numb the head or drilling holes into the skull. While medicine has advanced beyond these measures, a lot of treatments for migraines are not the fix for many people. However, an in-depth understanding of the condition has led to the breakthrough of using Gepants, which are a class of drugs that can help calm the
migraine attack. The way the Gepants and monoclonal antibody drugs can help, according to Diana Krause, a neuropharmacologist at the University of California, Irvine. These drugs work by targeting the calcitonin-gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor. This receptor is responsible for inducing blood vessel dilation and pain sensitization on the trigeminal ganglion. This is what makes migraine headaches so painful, and the antibodies are used to block the CGRP as a preventative measure to oncoming headaches. Treatments such as these drugs will improve the condition and quality of life for many people who suffer from migraines and truly represent a considerable breakthrough in science and medicine.
PHOTO COURTESY OF
MIND OF A FRESHMAN
It
actually does get easier
I am now far enough into semester two where I can reflect on how much I’ve changed since the first one. This is my first time writing for this panel, but last time I checked, I was still a freshman. That information has been weird to digest lately because I am finally starting to figure out what exactly it is I am doing. I am starting to get my feet under me. The first semester was not my best; I spent most of it in my dorm and avoided people on purpose. I had
this idea in my head that I wasn’t welcome anywhere or that I didn’t deserve friendships. This semester, however, I have a nice big group of friends, and I am writing for a band with some upperclassmen. It’s genuinely so crazy to me how much I have grown in such a short period of time. I’ve learned how to understand that I am worthy of all of my friendships, and now I have older friends who have been knocking some sense into me about it. I was genuinely falling apart at the end of the first semester, and my only goal was to come back and teach myself confidence. I’m still in disbelief at how far I have come, and I am proud of all of the progress. As a freshman, it’s definitely really easy to feel super overwhelmed all the time — the feeling comes in waves. I will have a week where everything feels cinematic,
and then the next week, it’s all so overwhelming that I shut down. Keeping track of these moments is important. You’re allowed to feel burnt out or stressed, but these experiences ultimately work towards progress. In the first semester, I couldn’t even talk to people, but now, it feels like I know everyone. It is still hard for me to feel worthy of my relationships, but it’s getting a lot easier. The awkwardness and discomfort of the first semester are long gone, and now everything is okay. I had to get to this semester before I could fully understand that I wasn’t alone in those feelings. The entire point of the first semester for us freshmen is that we are ALL new to this. I was so afraid to make mistakes and put myself out there I didn’t even realize that everyone was in the same boat as me. There is so much to be
excited about now. As a Music and Technology major, I have an internship coming up in March, along with some recording with my band. This is the stuff I was stressing myself about so hard in the first semester for not doing, and here I am doing all of it now. I feel so much more refreshed this semester, and all of my sadness has righted itself. The first semester was a lot of homesickness and discomfort and a huge time for all of my internalized insecurities to come out and manipulate me. This semester, I am going to do a lot more for myself, socially and academically, because I’ve figured out what works for me, and I’m no longer afraid of failure. My fear of failure is what was holding me back, and I still don’t have all the answers, but that’s totally okay. I am super prepared for things to get stressful again, but it actually does get easier.
What do your toys say about who you are?
ADVICE FOR BROKE COLLEGE STUDENTS Spring break savings
BY HIMA THUMMALA ‘26
As spring break starts to approach, the clouds swap for the sun, and the snow becomes rain. It means that there is more time for relaxation and more time away from studying. Spring break allows us to step away from work for a bit and spend time with family and friends. But, this does not come with a guarantee of it being affordable.
BY NICHOLAS SMITH ‘25
When was the last time you played? Take a moment and think about how you played when you were a child. Ask yourself, what did you play with, who did you play with, what options did you have to play? Fun is something I personally spend a lot of time thinking about because I think it’s a fundamental ingredient in the recipe for a good life. Catherine Price, author of “The Power of Fun,” calls true fun the combination of playfulness, connection, and flow. Childhood play is no different. To have fun as a child or an adult, you need the lighthearted and free feeling that accompanies playfulness, you need to feel connected with someone or something, and you must feel so involved you
could easily lose track of Today, childhood play is a hot topic. Childhood play is being replaced by screen time at an unprecedented rate. As graduating seniors, many of us were introduced to childhood play before our lives could have been consumed by screens. Lucky for us, having these experiences playing with toys can make the question “What do you want to be when you grow up?” a bit easier. I truly believe childhood play fundamentally forms our vocational identity. Vocational identity is an individual’s sense of self as a professional. This includes their occupational goals, interests, and values. The toys you played with growing up contribute to shaping what professional identity you want to commit to. So, what do our childhood toys tell us about who we want to be?
At Stevens, I think it’s safe to assume that Legos were a household toy for many of us. Speaking generally, it would make sense that Lego fans, as children in their adult selves, love building tangible things, as do engineers. To use a more abstract
example — why might a teacher be drawn to character toys? As kids, many teachers played with action figures, stuffed animals, dolls, or character sets. In their careers, they help shape students both intellectually and personally. As children, they didn’t just see a stuffed animal for what it was; they imagined what it could be. Playing pretend, assigning personalities, and even giving their toys voices helped them develop the skills they now use to nurture and guide their students.
And lastly, consider politicians and lawyers — people who thrive on discussing policies, rules, and structure. For many of us, our earliest exposure to rules came through board games. Chris Byrne, known as “The Play Guy,” describes board games as a child’s first introduction to structure, policies, and even moral choices. In his TED Talk, he jokes that we all remember the kids who cheated and felt guilty about it — and those who didn’t. Whether we realized it or not, the toys we played with as kids helped shape our identities in ways we may have never imagined.
While I’ve discussed the benefits associated with reflecting on your toys, there could be some unforeseen consequences for children as well if they do not have adequate exposure to a wide breadth of toys. Identity foreclosure is when you prematurely commit to an identity without exploring possible alternatives. What happens to a child if they aren’t afforded the opportunity to explore many different types of toys? We may reinforce gender stereotypes, cultural barriers, and prematurely commit to identities without knowing the breadth of opportunity the world has to offer.
To kick the elephant out of the room, not every engineer loved Legos, not every teacher loved stuffed animals, and not every politician loved board games. But I’ve found that when navigating the daunting, at times, the question of “what’s next” when reflecting on the toys I played with is insightful and energizing.
So, if you haven’t figured out what you want to be when you grow up, think about what your childhood toys say about you, your interests, and your aspirations.
COMIC CORNER
BY MARTINA FRANZ
To make spring break a memorable time of joy and fun, people will usually want to plan for a vacation or trip of some sort. But, especially as a college student living with little in the bank account, it can throw a wrench in your plans. Looking at the costs for transportation, hotels, and meals can be overwhelming as it can all add up to a high number. Then when trying to go with a cheaper option, it can seem impossible and end up in canceled plans. Does this sound familiar? Well, look no further for a solution, and read on to find out some affordable and fun ideas for this spring break or future breaks!
A great way to spend time this spring is outside, especially in nature! Now this does not just mean looking at the grass and trees in your backyard but going to nature trails and even hiking spots. As a low-cost and fun trip, going to a trail in your local park can be a great way to spend time with your family and friends. Hiking is also a great activity to stay healthy and challenge your -
self, making it not only a great vacation plan but also a new hobby to develop! Another idea for this upcoming break is to go on a road trip. Being stuffed in a car for hours might not seem ideal, but if planned out properly, a road trip could be a very affordable and fun experience. The most important thing is to choose places to stop that you and fellow travelers find of interest. These could be museums, monuments, or even a popular cafe that you have been wanting to visit. With the stops being places that you all want to stop at, they will make the trip much more enjoyable. These ideas may seem helpful, but if there is a specific vacation in mind, you may need to save up. This means planning ahead for what expenses are needed in total for the trip and working towards saving or making that amount of money. Maybe it means having to get a job or not spending as much. Although it may seem like a lot of work, once spring break rolls around, or maybe even for a trip this summer or sometime next year, your vacation will be well-deserved. This spring break could even be dedicated to figuring out what you need to do to get the right finances for your upcoming trip in the near future. Whichever is the case, whether it be saving up this spring break, going on an affordable trip, or both, it is important to make sure that you are responsible with your finances. This means sticking to a budget, making sure that you know how much you will be spending, or thinking about how you can reach your financial goals for a future trip. Whichever way you spend your spring break, make sure to take a step back from work and enjoy your time while being financially responsible.
UNMASKING: AN AUTISM STORY
When I forgot to write my article, so I write about forgetting
BY EVAN PAPAGEORGE ‘26
Memory is essential to daily life, influencing everything from simple routines to complex decision-making. However, memory can present unique challenges, particularly forgetfulness, for individuals with autism. While autism is often associated with strengths like attention to detail and pattern recognition, research increasingly highlights significant memory difficulties that can impact everyday functioning.
Forgetfulness in autis
tic individuals can mani-
ON SHUFFLE
fest in various ways, such as struggling to recall recent events, forgetting appointments, or losing track of essential tasks. These difficulties are not simply a matter of absentmindedness but rather reflect more profound neurological differences in memory processing. Studies suggest that people with autism often experience challenges with episodic memory—the ability to remember personal experiences and specific events, or they might struggle to recall what they had for breakfast or details of a conversation from the previous day. Unlike neurotypical individuals, who tend to create detailed, context-rich memories, autistic individuals may have fragmented or less accessible recollections.
Short-term memory can also be affected, making it difficult to retain information for immediate use. For instance, an autistic person
Battle of the Bands
Saturday, March 1, is at
7 p.m. in Debaun Auditori -
um. Battle of the Bands is a campus-wide competition featuring various Stevens bands. Each group competes for the opportunity to open for the headliner band at our traditional Tech Fest concert event. This year, six groups will perform, and each is sure to bring the energy! Tech Fest is the concert event that is held every year towards the end of the semester to celebrate the academic year. It is always an exciting time to see the campus getting set up and prepared for the big event. I know that this event is so fun and sure to bring in lots of people. It is full of different foods, prizes, events, and, of course, the concert. If you have never been to Tech Fest, I highly recommend going!
As I said before, Battle of the Bands is a competition that features multiple Stevens bands. This year, six bands will be fighting for the three opener positions. The exciting thing about this event is that you, the Stevens community, get to select the opening acts. The first-place band will perform right before the headliner with the longest set. The second-place band will perform second, and the third will perform first. I think that it is so
cool that the Stevens community gets to vote for who they want to hear.
Another exciting thing about this event is that I am performing this year!
My band and I will be performing at Battle of the Bands. We are performing my original songs, and I am so excited to share that with the community. We have been practicing for a while now, and we are so pumped. If you like singer/ songwriter, pop, or alternative music, then you are sure to enjoy this set. Ever since I can remember, I have always loved to perform. The opportunity to perform for my Stevens community at Battle of the Bands is one that I am so grateful for. This event is always so fun to attend; I love supporting the bands. This year, I cannot believe that I am playing it. I urge everyone to attend this event and hear all of the impressive bands performing! Every single group brings amazing energy and a diverse sound. I am so excited to hear all of the talented Stevens students and their music. Since we are in the Debaun Auditorium, I’m hoping that it will provide an intimate concert experience for everyone.
Ultimately, I hope you can find yourself at Battle of the Bands this Saturday at 7 p.m. in Debaun partying with us. I know that there will be a band and a sound just for you. If my band happens to be one that you particularly enjoyed, I would love your vote! I know that this event on Saturday will be so fun and an amazing night altogether. I hope to see you there this weekend, and hopefully, you will like my set!
might read instructions but forget them moments later, requiring repeated reminders. This is particularly challenging in structured environments like school or work, where retaining and applying information is often necessary. Additionally, difficulties with working memory— holding and manipulating data in the mind—can lead to struggles with multitasking or following multistep directions.
One reason for these memory challenges lies in differences in brain function. Research indicates that autistic individuals show variations in the connectivity of brain regions involved in memory, such as the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. These structural and functional differences can affect how information is encoded, stored, and retrieved, leading to inconsistencies in memory performance. Additionally, heightened
FOODIE FINDS
anxiety—a common experience for many autistic individuals—can further disrupt memory. Stress and sensory overload can interfere with the brain’s ability to process and recall information, making forgetfulness even more pronounced in overwhelming situations. Forgetfulness in autism is not necessarily uniform and can be selective. While an autistic person may struggle to remember daily tasks or recent conversations, they may have an exceptional ability to recall specific facts, interests, or patterns. This phenomenon, sometimes called “islands of memory,” highlights how memory in autism can be both impaired and enhanced, depending on the context. Some autistic individuals exhibit remarkable long-term memory, remembering intricate details from years while struggling with more immediate recall.
Culture on a plate
BY PRISHA VAGVALA ‘28
Last Saturday, the Student Government Association (SGA) Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Belonging, and Accessibility (DEIBA) committee, led by my friend Shahd, hosted an inspiring cultural food festival. Her idea sparked my passion to reflect on the diverse foods I love from different cultures. As I explored the event, I couldn’t help but think about the culinary traditions that shape our community. I started with the KSA station, where they had gimbap and tteokbokki, and I was obsessed with tteokbokki. It was chewy but not gummy, and despite my low spice tolerance, I was surprised that it wasn’t too spicy. The rice helped balance the flavors of the tteokbokki sauce, mellow ing out its slight spiciness. It was incredibly addictive, and now I’m trying to find a recipe to make it at home. Gimbap, a Korean dish with rice, vegetables, and optional cooked seafood or meat, looks like sushi but is different. Sushi consists of vinegared rice and often raw fish, while gimbap uses sesame oil-seasoned rice with cooked ingredients.
I adore Chinese food, but unfortunately, I didn’t get a chance to try CSA’s dishes. I believe they had dumplings and spring rolls. Dumplings, like Chinese ji aozi, are one of my favorite comfort foods. On Chinese New Year’s Eve, jiaozi is served at midnight. Spring rolls, originating in China, are made with a thin, crispy wheat flour dough and a savory filling of vegetables and sometimes meat, sea soned with soy sauce, gin ger, garlic, and other spic es. They’re made with thin, crispy, deep-fried wheat flour dough filled with a sa vory mix of vegetables and
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Strategies can help mitigate these memory challenges. Many autistic individuals benefit from structured routines, visual schedules, and external memory aids such as plan-
ners or phone reminders. Breaking down tasks into smaller steps and using repetition can reinforce retention. Reducing anxiety through predictable environments, sensory accommodations, and mindfulness techniques can also help improve memory function. Understanding and support from peers, educators, and employers also play a crucial role in creating an environment where forgetfulness is acknowledged and accommodated rather than criticized. While forgetfulness in autism presents real challenges, recognizing these difficulties as part of a broader neurological profile can foster greater understanding and support. With the right strategies and accommodations, autistic individuals can more effectively navigate memory-related obstacles, allowing them to thrive personally and professionally.
sometimes meat. I also visited the ISA station, where I had delicious Italian Pastry Butter Cookies — buttery and soft. The festival featured cannoli, Sicilian pastries with a crisp shell, and a sweet ricotta filling, sometimes coated with pistachios or chocolate chips. My favorite cannoli are from Angelina’s Bakery in New York.
In addition to the food, I was impressed by the performances of BSU and KSA that I witnessed. What could be better than free cultural food paired with talented performances? I also wanted to mention the Kwanzaa foods like candied yams, collard greens, fried okra, and other symbolic dishes. These earthy foods represent the harvest, making them especially meaningful during the celebration. Recently, I’ve seen West African fufu and egusi soup on my Instagram reels, and they’ve got me craving them. Nigerian egusi soup, made with ground melon seeds, meats, and blended peppers fried in palm oil, is garnished with vegetables
THOMAS ‘26
BOOK OF THE WEEK
Tales from
the
Hinterland: an adventure into modern fairytales Opinion
BAFFLING BITS & BOBS
If there’s a hole, there’s a way
ROVING REPORTER
By Rafael Lee Li and Mia Petrolino
“Who is a black figure you look up to?”
Mickantzy Polycarpe ‘26
“My parents because they’ve always been there for me.”
Dominique Gale ‘27
“Henrietta Lacks! Her cervical cells were taken (without her consent) and used to make many advancements in science, medicine, and virology!”
Michael Bittner ‘27 “LEBROOONNN BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM.”
Yann Gorski ‘27
“Booker T. Washington.”
Sie Salandy-Smith ‘29 “Kendrick Lamar.”
Martina Franz ‘27
“Malcolm X. You don’t always learn about him in school. But I think it’s important to learn about other ways there were protests for equality.”
Prisha Vagvala ‘28 “Drake.”
Christopher Bubniak ‘26 “Darryl Strawberry.”