THE USD VISTA
Trump triumphs in presidential election
Students react to election results
In a historic comeback, former President Donald Trump secured the presidency on election night. Trump became the second president in American history to return to office and serve non-consecutive terms. He also became the first convicted felon to be elected into the position. Not only did Trump win the electoral college, but he also won the popular vote by approximately 4 million votes. This election marked the first time that Trump has won the popular vote — which he lost to former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and President Joe Biden in 2016 and 2020, respectively. The newly re-elected president celebrated his victory with a speech at his election night rally in West Palm Beach, Fla.
“It is now clear that we have achieved the most incredible political thing,” the former president stated. “I want to thank the American people for the extraordinary honor of being elected your 47th president and your 45th president … I will See Trump, Page 3
From
to degree
While some students came to USD right after graduating high school, others took a different journey to get here. San Diego is home to USD as well as numerous military bases, which brings many people who serve the country to our community. There are numerous students who have already served or are currently still actively serving while attending college. Going from being deployed to learning in the classroom can be a difficult transition due to varying challenges in the two different environments. Some students shared their experiences of what it was like to serve in the military and their transition to college.
USD junior David Espinoza shared that he joined the Navy after being undecided about his career ambitions, and that he found interest in being a nuclear mechanical operator. Espinoza explained that being in the military wasn’t like anything he had experienced before.
EMMA PIRHALA NEWS EDITOR
President-elect Donald Trump speaks to supporters at his last rally.
Photo courtesy of
Trump re-elected to the Oval Office Republicans
sweep the electoral college and popular vote
not rest until we have delivered the strong, safe and prosperous America that our children deserve and that you deserve. This will truly be the golden age of America.”
Trump’s supporters have expressed their excitement over his triumph. USD sophomore Caylie Miller voted for Trump in her native state of California. She voiced her joy for Trump’s return to the White House.
“It is honestly so hard to describe in words how I feel,” Miller shared. “I guess the closest [feeling] is immense happiness and pride in my country and Trump. There is no one who deserves the position more than Trump. America is destined for great things these next four years.”
On the other side of the aisle, Vice President Kamala Harris waited until the next afternoon to give a message to the American people. Harris addressed
her supporters at Howard University after calling Trump to congratulate him on his victory.
“The outcome of this election is not what we wanted, not what we fought for, not what we voted for,” Harris said. “But hear me when I say, the light of America’s promise will always burn bright as long as we never give up and as long as we keep fighting.”
Harris noted fears regarding the transfer of power and assured citizens that the two
parties will collaborate peacefully during this period of transition.
“Now, I know folks are feeling and experiencing a range of emotions right now,” Harris said. “I get it, but we must accept the results of this election. Earlier today, I spoke with Presidentelect Trump and congratulated him on his victory. I also told him that we will help him and his team with their transition and that we will engage in a peaceful transfer of power. A fundamental principle of American democracy is that when we lose an election, we accept the results.”
Trump did not make any comments regarding election integrity following his win.
However, Max Read, a senior researcher at the Institute for Strategic Dialogue reported to CBS News that mentions of election integrity dropped on social media after Trump won.
Following Trump’s victory, the stock market boomed with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite, leading indicators of the economy, closing at record highs the day after the election. Americans continued to ride the financial high as the Federal Reserve announced further cuts in interest rates.
However, not all citizens are reaping benefits from Trump’s win. Some USD students are
disappointed in the unexpected upset and defeat of the HarrisWalz campaign. USD junior Paris Thiele voted for Harris in her home state of Pennsylvania. The Keystone State was a major factor in Trump’s victory, where he gained 19 electoral votes. Thiele shared her disappointment in Harris’s defeat.
“I’d say the results of this election have caused me great confusion and shock,” Thiele explained. “They have caused me to question people’s integrity in saying that they love and support women, the environment, the lower class, and any other marginalized group. I am deeply saddened by this country’s apparent apathy for people who are suffering …. I’d say the results of this election have caused me great confusion and shock … I am deeply saddened by this country’s apparent apathy for people who are suffering.” Trump will not assume the White House until Inauguration Day in January. However, the president-elect has been quick to appoint his new cabinet. Trump appointed his campaign co-chair Susie Wiles to be his chief of staff. As Trump prepares for his return to the Oval Office, questions swarm about who he will appoint to his cabinet and how he plans to “Make America Great Again.”
Californians vote on critical propositions Explaining the impacts of the new measures
On Election Day, California voters not only voted for a presidential candidate, but they also marked up their ballots to vote on state-specific measures — known as propositions. California utilizes propositions as a direct democracy initiative. Rather than most laws, which are passed by legislators, propositions give citizens the ability to voice their opinions on the state’s legislation. This year’s ballot included 10 propositions, covering topics such as crime, affordable housing and environmental issues.
Many USD students who are registered to vote in California voted in the proposition section.
USD senior Emmanuel Anjeh is a California native who voted on the propositions. He described his process of voting.
“I had prior knowledge about a few of [the propositions],” Anjeh said. “Some about making marriage a constitutional right for gay people, I had prior knowledge about that one. The others were a shot in the dark.”
Of the propositions, six are currently projected to pass with a majority vote.
However, not all ballots have been counted. California
Secretary of State Shirley N. Weber issued a statement to the press regarding the total ballot count as of Nov. 7. According to Weber, 10,728,985 million ballots have been processed and 5,472,423 million ballots are awaiting review. At this time, it is unclear whether these uncounted ballots will adjust the projections of the passed propositions. However, the measures which have passed will soon start to impact Californians.
Proposition 36
Considered by many to be the most pressing proposition on the ticket, California Proposition 36 increases penalties for some theft and drug-related crimes. Proposition 36 converts the
possession of certain drugs and thefts under $950 to a felony charge, rather than a misdemeanor for repeat offenders. The measure passed with an overwhelming 70% majority, as of Nov. 12. The proposition passed amongst complaints about crime on the streets and theft at retail stores. Those in opposition of the measure question if the proposition will cut down on crime.
Proposition 3
California Amendment 3 revisits LGBTQ+ rights and removes language from the state’s Constitution which delineates that marriage is between a man and a woman. The amendment has no impact on who is allowed to marry, but rather makes marriage a fundamental right for all, regardless of race or sex. Opponents of the law claimed that its passing could lead to child marriages, incest and polygamy. Supporters claimed that the amendment will help solidify gay rights. However, the amendment passed with 62% of the vote.
Proposition 2
Proposition 2 authorizes $10 billion in bonds to renovate and construct public schools within
From Trump, Page 1
EMMA PIRHALA NEWS EDITOR
USD community members voted at the polling center inside the Degheri Alumni Center. Jackie Marquez/The USD Vista
President-elect Donald Trump ramped up the crowd at a rally.
Photo courtesy of @greeksfortrump/Instagram
How the measures will impact the state Voters pass propositions on Election Day
From Propositions, Page 2 the state. Those in opposition of the proposition claimed that the program will increase taxes for all Californians. Since the measure passed, California will borrow the $10 billion and repay about $500 million annually for the next 35 years.
Proposition 4
Another big ticket item on the ballot passed, authorizing another $10 billion towards water, wildfire prevention and land management. The measure came as Ventura County fights off wildfires. However, the proposition increased the bill yet again for California taxpayers.
USD first-year Madeline Churches explained why she supports the proposition, despite the increase in taxes.
“I think that since the money is going to a good cause, then it makes sense to vote for it — even if it raises taxes.”
Proposition 35
The passing of Proposition 35 requires the state to spend the revenue from the tax on Medi-Cal healthcare plans on other healthcare services for low-income Californians. Among the services that will be more accessible primary and specialty care, mental healthcare and prescription drugs. Within the state, many healthcare providers refuse to accept Medi-Cal because California has a low repayment rate. However, this new measure will increase the number of providers willing to treat those with Medi-Cal healthcare plans. With the passing of the
propositions on this year’s ballot, $20 billion of bonds were established, which the state will have to pay back. The introduction of new debt to the state raises some worries regarding taxes, as the state of California already has some of the highest taxes in the nation.
However, USD student and Californian Cavin Nguyen voiced his opinion on increased taxes.
“As long as the funds are properly allocated, I don’t have a problem with [the increase in taxes].”
California may see more legislative change in the near future as Governor Gavin Newsom vowed to safeguard fundamental rights in light of Trump’s re-election. Newsom called a special session of state legislators together to prepare for Trump’s inauguration. The
session is slated for Dec. 2 and will focus on “Trump-Proofing” California from any national laws that may be approved under Trump’s administration.
The passed propositions will soon take effect and Californians will begin to see the impacts of their votes on the state.
The University hires student tram drivers
USD expands shuttle offerings with student recruitment
Every day, students make the trek between their residence halls and USD’s main campus. Although it’s a relatively short commute compared to other universities, USD students must circumvent construction, faulty elevators and hilly terrain to make it to their destination on time. Because of this, many students turn to USD’s trams to get from point A to point B. However, the recent growth of the University’s undergraduate population has strained the trams, leading to crowded shuttles, an insufficient number of routes and a lack of drivers.
USD sophomore Neve Borgerding explained how the increased demand for the trams has impacted her daily routine.
“When I take the tram in the afternoon back to my dorm, it can get pretty packed,” Borgerding
expressed. “They’re pretty reliable, so I would say the only main issue is when there aren’t enough seats and it gets hot and cramped.”
To solve this pressing issue,
USD Tram Services has turned to students to drive extra ecoshuttles in the afternoon. The position description, listed on USD’s Student Employment website, explains that students will operate 14-passenger eco-shuttles around campus, serving other students, faculty, staff and guests. Eco-shuttles are similar to the golf carts driven around campus, with the main distinction being that their purpose is to transport passengers. Interested students need to possess a valid Class C non-commercial license and a spotless driving record, meaning no accidents on your record.
Tram Services also noted a preference of upperclassmen for the position, requiring individuals with over three years of driving experience.
Eco-shuttle student drivers will earn $16.85, San Diego’s minimum wage, and work approximately 10-12 hours each week in the afternoon.
Sean Horrigan, USD’s Director of University Mobility and Scheduling, commented on the recent pressure on campus
The USD Vista
transportation as a whole.
“We know that the demand for efficient transportation across campus is high, and students rely on trams to get to class and other locations,” Horrigan stated. “We want to look for creative ways to meet this demand using our current resources. We like to adjust our service as campus facilities and population change.”
Horrigan explained that the decision to hire student drivers stemmed from a commitment to creative problem solving and maximizing resources that the department already has.
“We want to use our existing resources to the fullest extent possible,” Horrigan said. “In the afternoon and evenings, we currently have two eco-shuttles that are not being used. Hiring student staff to drive is a great way to use these shuttles to better serve the campus. We currently have four student drivers. The initiative is still early in its implementation, but the feedback is positive.”
The USD Vista attempted to contact the student drivers for comment, however no student drivers were
available. Borgerding reacted to the addition of student tram drivers to help relieve the pressure on the shuttles.
“That sounds like a liability to me, but I guess I’m not going to complain if it means the trams will be less crowded,” Borgerding said.
USD sophomore Kylie Huynh supports the new initiative and praised the innovative solution.
“I honestly think that’s such a great idea because I know students are always looking for jobs, and it benefits everyone by having more transportation on campus,” Huynh explained.
The addition of more tram routes throughout the day raises some concerns regarding the environmental impact of the vehicles. However, Horrigan explained that the student-driven eco-shuttles are fully electric and USD plans to continue this trend
with any further acquisitions.
“Any future shuttles added to our fleet would also be electric,” Horrigan stated. “USD’s long-term plan is to transition all fuel carts to electric, so we are staying aligned with that goal.”
Despite the introduction of student tram drivers, USD students still face long wait times and crowded shuttles. As the University expands, Tram Services intends to keep creating innovative solutions to help students get across campus with faster and simpler solutions.
Quinn Hallinan - Advertising Manager Gina Lew - Student Media Advisor
Minnick - Operations Advisor
EMMA PIRHALA NEWS EDITOR
Voters were able to register prior to voting at the Degheri Alumni Center. Jackie Marquez/The USD Vista
MAE O’MALLEY ASST. NEWS EDITOR
OPINION
Falling for a break USD students are in desperate need of a fall break
ZOE ROGERS OPINION EDITOR
Since the start of this academic year, Sept. 4, we have yet to be granted a single day off, excluding weekends. The first day of school was 10 weeks ago, marking the start of a taxing and exhausting semester. It’s common for schools to grant students a fall break, so why don’t we get one? While we have weekends incorporated in our academic schedule, those aren’t enough. The weekends do not allow room for a productive recuperation, as students are still worrying about the assignments in the upcoming week. Thanksgiving break itself is scheduled to be only five days including the weekend, which is not enough for 10 consecutive academic weeks of school. Incorporating a fall break between the start of school and Thanksgiving break would help USD students for the better by providing us with a well-deserved reset amid this academic season.
After a three-month-long summer break, USD students dove into the fall semester rejuvenated and fulfilled from their lengthy time off of school, reflecting on the pleasures that summer had to offer. Summer break is the perfect end of finals season and transition into the next academic year. Although, when we return to school, assignments quickly load onto our schedules as we scramble to organize ourselves mentally and adapt to our new school routine. In order to maintain steady, high grades, we must dedicate a significant amount of time and mental capacity to our academics.
Reliving this constant cycle of assignments, exams, essays and long work hours can be incredibly taxing.
It’s typical for schools to give fall breaks a few weeks before Thanksgiving breaks; even my friends at San Diego State University received Veterans Day off. Just a few days off, especially on federal holidays such as Veterans Day, Presidents Day, or Columbus/ Indigenous peoples Day, is the perfect way to reset oneself and take a much needed break from an intense semester. However, USD does not grant us the liberty of having a fall break, so we must continue school from Sept. 4 to Nov. 27 — the start of Thanksgiving break. All together, we go through 12 weeks of school without a break.
Not setting up allotted breaks is detrimental to students’ mental health, and it is an easy recipe for burnout, which can be harmful. Albert Einstein College of Medicine stated the causes and symptoms of burnout in students and why it is detrimental to college students.
“Study burnout results from emotional and physical exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress,” Albert Einstein College of Medicine stated. “It occurs when you feel overwhelmed and unable to meet constant demands. As the stress continues, you begin to lose the interest or motivation… Study burnout reduces your productivity and saps your energy.”
Recently, I have been feeling tired, worn out and mentally exhausted from the continuous days of work these past 10 weeks. When speaking to my friends and classmates, I have noticed
an underlying theme that many USD students are worn out. In a recent conversation with my friend, I expressed that I was struggling to keep my motivation
for the week, and I sometimes feel like I lack the energy I need to continue my assignments. My friend had expressed that she and her roommates were experiencing the same thing, and that to cope with these emotions, they took a trip to my friend’s house in Arizona during the weekend because they all felt like they “needed it.” Students are taking their own fall breaks to travel, but including days off in the academic calendar would make it easier for students to get away without falling behind. A fall break would be great for students who want to visit home but don’t want to spend all of Friday and Sunday traveling to their far destination.
Not only would providing students with a break between the start of school and Thanksgiving prevent burnout, allow for rejuvenating family time or trips home and promote mental wellbeing, but it can also influence academic success. Students who are struggling mentally are less likely to succeed in academics. Inside Higher Ed, an American news site focused on education, provided insight into the connection between students’ mental health and their academics.
“Experts have long understood that students’ mental health struggles could also negatively impact their academic performance, with severe mental health problems,
leading students to suffer from plummeting grades or drop out,” Inside Higher Ed reported. If USD wants to support its student body and promote academic success, it must implement a fall break. Granting us a fall break would allow us to harness the energy we need to continue through the remainder of our fall semester. While, yes, Thanksgiving break is about two weeks away, and we are already granted a long summer and winter break, incorporating a fall break of just two or three days on top of the weekend can benefit USD students significantly. Even removing a few days off of our summer or winter break and allowing us to use those days for a break in the fall would be a perfect solution to help the mental health of USD’s students. Allowing students to gasp for air during this long stretch of academic stress can help students for the better. This year has harnessed the emotions that come along with the election, as well as the typical balance of social life and learning. Being a student can often be suffocating, and it’s challenging to balance the different aspects of our lives, such as academic, social, personal and, for others, athletics. Including a fall break in our calendar would promote academic success and help USD students significantly by preventing burnout.
The views expressed in the editorial and op-ed sections are not necessarily those of The USD Vista staff, the University of San Diego, or its student body.
Giving students a fall break encourages them to reconnect them with nature and rejuvenate.
Photo Courtesy of @itscakefortea/Unsplash
USD students are drowning in school work and in dire need of a break.
Shannen Swars/The USD Vista
OPINION
Authenticity is the best policy
Being your true self leads to a happier life
gratifying and liberating process.
JULIE FROMM ASST. OPINION EDITOR
College has been one of the most formative experiences of my life thus far. I can still remember the excitement I felt at the anticipation of this new adventure when I left high school and moved into the Valley dorms my first year. At the same time, I felt nervous about making new friends, joining a new community and establishing myself as an independent young adult. As I reflect on my time in college, one thing that I wish I had learned sooner is that authenticity is the key to happiness. It took me years to fully accept myself for who I am and to pursue my passions wholeheartedly the way I do now. It has also taken me years to even get to know myself entirely, and that is a process that continues every day. Being true to myself has not only made me feel much happier with my life, but it has also allowed me to attract people and opportunities that align with my passions. Authenticity can feel like a difficult thing to grasp, like an ongoing project that is never finished, but it is nevertheless a
The Oxford English Dictionary defines the word “authentic” as being true to one’s own personality, spirit or character. Being an authentic person allows you to live your life with more purpose and direction, because you know yourself deeply and can align your life with your values.
However, it is much easier said than done. In my experience, it has often felt easier to try to make myself fit in with my peers, even if doing so went against what I really wanted.
Berkeley Executive Education published an article regarding our natural tendancy to strive to belong.
“We are wired (for survival) to want to ‘belong,’” Berkley Executive Education stated. “When we fear we have more to lose by being ourselves than we have to gain — we might adapt who we are to safeguard our status, reputation, paycheck, or whatever else might be at stake.”
Finding a sense of belonging in social groups is incredibly important to our happiness as human beings, but forcing yourself into a certain group rather than the group you are meant to be in can be damaging to your self-image. As a first year, I wanted
more than anything to fit in and find a friend group, no matter what that looked like. It took me several years to feel like I finally found the friends that I am meant to be with and to discover things about myself that are paramount to who I am.
When you allow your true self to shine through, the benefits become apparent very quickly. As I have made my way through college, I have begun to pursue my passions, including creative writing and education, more candidly. Because of this, several aspects of my life have positively changed.
Opportunities that aligned with my passions began to appear, like writing for the school newspaper and working as a tutor at the Writing Center. I also made friends in my classes that shared my love for writing and learning, and I have been able to build valuable relationships with them because of our shared interests.
I began to feel more confident in myself as a person because I knew that I was building a social life that reflected who I really am. I also recognized that when I was surrounded by people who shared my interests, I felt like I was able to relax into myself and feel at ease.
Being authentic can require
you to step out of your comfort zone, which can be incredibly difficult, especially during college.
For many people, college can mean moving to an entirely different state and meeting hundreds of new people, which is understandably overwhelming, and it may seem simpler to follow the masses instead of following your heart. However, college can also be an opportunity to really discover yourself.
High school can be a roller coaster for many, myself included, and the desire to fit in is often higher than ever.
But there is a big difference between fitting in and belonging. In high school, I found myself ignoring things that I loved because my peers didn’t share the same interests. When I got to college, some of those feelings lingered. But as I evolved, I knew that it was better to listen to myself and my passions instead of what I thought others would want from me. College can be the time to let go of those social norms that you may have adapted to in high school and embrace your individuality wholeheartedly.
A how-to article written by “MasterClass,” an online platform providing classes with well-known teachers in their fields of expertise,
provided some tips on how to be a more genuine person, including being honest, listening to your intuition, practicing self-reflection and working on your self-esteem. It sounds easy to follow these tips, but it can be a huge learning curve.
As someone who spent a lot of their life ignoring parts of themselves in order to fit in, trying to listen to your inner voice can feel difficult. After practicing introspection and finding ways to listen to myself that work for me, like journaling, I have had the opportunity to get to know myself better and, therefore, make decisions that align with my interests more sincerely.
With my final semester of college quickly approaching, I am so grateful that I have been able to use my time at USD to practice self discovery and start living my life more authentically.
Although it has required a lot of patience, learning how to listen to myself has helped me shape my life in a more positive way. I wish that I could go back in time and tell my high school self that being herself is well worth it, but I am glad that I have had these realizations now and can move forward in my life with the knowledge that I am living an authentic and fulfilling life.
ARTS & FEATURE
Soldiers go back to school
Students share their transition from the military to USD
From Veterans, Page 1
“It was a very different environment than I was previously accustomed to,” Espinoza stated. “There was a high level of structure and discipline, with very low tolerance for mistakes. It was also an adjustment dealing with a constantly [challenging] schedule. I think I grew a lot as far as the discipline I was lacking and learning to kind of survive on my own. On the other hand, it was very damaging for me emotionally because being in the military is a very isolating experience that leaves very limited room for interpersonal and romantic connections. I was very lonely and did not fully recognize that I was depressed most of my time in service. This was the reason I chose to get out; I met my now wife here in San Diego while on shore duty and realized I finally had something to motivate me to actually have a life outside the structure of the navy.”
Espinoza planned on spending more time in the Navy until retirement. But, with the help of his wife, he decided to earn a degree in mechanical engineering, in order to make more money and gain better time and location stability. In Espinoza’s last few months of serving, he prepared to take classes at Mesa College before transferring to USD. Though expressing the difficulty of the transition from being in the military back to college life, Espinoza did acknowledge some highlights.
“I was used to much more structure and basically being told exactly what to do to accomplish tasks; now I [need]
to think on my own and track all the little things I [need] to do,” Espinoza stated. “I could not have done it without my wife and her encouragement and help with logistics. Once I was actually in school, the classes were surprisingly laid-back compared to what I endured in my specific Navy training. I was pleasantly surprised at my ability to absorb information compared with the average student, and the pace of classes was about 20 to 25 percent that of most of my Navy training, with far less strict requirements for knowledge. I’m used to memorizing entire system schematics and random specifications of equipment, as well as emergency protocols for numerous critical situations. It was quite refreshing to just be a student with no other real responsibilities and mainly be tested for conceptual understanding of material rather than brute memorization.”
Another veteran, USD junior Briana Burton, joined the military in 2017 after holding an interest in architecture from a young age. Burton knew she wanted to pursue her passion and leave North Carolina, so she researched and gained advice from others. Ultimately, she decided to take on the role of a civil engineer in the Navy.
“I happened to talk to a lot of people who were in the Navy,” Burton stated. “They gave me resources saying ‘Oh yeah, you could be one of the civil engineers and travel and they’ll pay you. You’ll have a place to live and you’re not on your own, you’re still supported.’ So I decided to enlist … I also wanted to leave North Carolina. That was a huge
part of it. I wanted to come [to San Diego] because everytime I visited, I felt comfortable and welcomed. So that was another really important factor.”
For five years, Burton served in a construction battalion group called the Seabees, who focused on civil engineering, building and constructing while in the Navy. Burton was stationed in Port Hueneme for about three and a half years before transferring to Coronado’s Naval Amphibious Base for the remainder of her time in the service.
Burton shared that she always wanted to go to college outside of her home state and researched to find the architecture program that she thought would be the
best for her. Eventually, she found USD when exploring these programs. Even though the transition was difficult at first, she had help when coming back to the classroom.
“I feel like if I didn’t seek help, it would’ve been very difficult because I had no idea what I was doing,” Burton said. “I’m just like ‘Okay, I know what I want to do, but how to get there. No answers.’ So before I got out, before my contract ended, I went online, and I sought out transition counselors. So there are people specifically that will help you go from active duty back into the civilian world, and their specialization is helping you with that transition. I reached out online to one — I think I found her on LinkedIn and she helped me so much. All the paperwork I needed and who I needed to contact and everything, she really helped me navigate that.”
While some students have finished their time in the Navy, others are still currently serving. USD junior Andrew Dolan discussed his experience as an active officer in the Marine Corps. Currently a staff sergeant, Dolan is in more of a mentorship role to help guide NROTC students. He is currently in the Marine Enlisted Commissioning Education Program which allows those who are enlisted to be officers while also getting an education. Dolan shared that even though he loves learning in a classroom now, he didn’t think that he was ready to attend college right away.
“If I would have gone to college at 18 years old, I would’ve really really struggled because I just didn’t have the work ethic,” Dolan stated. “I didn’t have the kind of
resiliency that I would need to have, and I think the biggest thing is that I just didn’t know who I was … I started going to college when I was 24, so, for me, I kind of knew more who I was. I knew what I liked, and whenever I would go to classes, I actually really enjoy being there and learning because it’s something that I want to do. I don’t just see it as a way to get a degree.”
Before joining the Marine Corps, Dolan was homeschooled from a young age. He always thought he might join the Coast Guard or the Navy, and he decided to become a Marine after his experiences at boot camp. Dolan shared the difference from serving to now still being active but in the classroom.
“It was definitely a big change,” Dolan said. “Going from homeschool to college was similar in the sense that homeschool you don’t go to class everyday, you go to class once or twice a week. College, very similar. You go to class, you know, two to three times a week … I think the biggest difference was, I think maybe what a lot of college students feel, is just the difficulty of the classes. You’re expected to write at a higher proficiency, you’re expected to do a bunch of tests and stuff like that. And so it was similar in some ways, but obviously more difficult.”
There’s many students who have served, are still active or are currently in ROTC that attend USD. Even though it can be a big change, students show that it’s possible to come back to class after serving in the military — or while still being active — and stay on top of course work.
Briana Burton with other Seabees in San Francisco during Navy Fleet Week.
Photo courtesy of Briana Burton
ARTS & CULTURE
Goodbye books, hello screens
Reading for pleasure is becoming history
ELLIE SKJERSAA ARTS & CULTURE EDITOR
Today, bookshelves are home to stacks of dust-covered pages that have gone untouched and unbothered for years. Whether the world likes it or not, it is undeniable that humans have turned away from books and instead, turned toward screens.
In universities, the pivot to digital textbooks and digital note-taking is a clear reflection of this societal transformation. In lieu of the rapid rise of other forms of entertainment, books have been put on the backburner, trailing behind social media, television and podcasts.
USD
English Professor Sara Hasselbach shared how this transition has affected work in the classroom.
“I allow one novel, maybe two, per semester,” Hasselbach said. “I used to do four, easily. [Now], I have more short stories, poems and digital content. We watch series and films — I pick really good ones — but at the end of the day, I want them to be critical thinkers, and so I am sacrificing [books] so that they’re getting content and information still.”
There are many possible reasons why reading has fallen behind in recent times — the rise of AI technology and outside distractions are just a few. Hasselbach specifically pointed out the impact of social media on attention spans.
“Reading requires a lot of active engagement,” Hasselbach said. “It’s not as passive as
watching something. I also think one of the reasons people are reading less is that attention spans aren’t what they once were, and I think that also relates to screen time and social media. Reading does train you to kind of sit with something, and that’s just like not happening as much and there are really good reasons why it’s not happening. People are busy, but I do think there are long term, bad repercussions of that.”
Short attention spans have plagued all social media users, no matter the age.
USD sophomore Dylan Adra sympathizes with this point.
“[Reading is] one of those
things that, it’s hard to get myself to do,” Adra said. “We live in a digital age where it’s way easier and it feels much better to just doom scroll on your phone for a long time, rather than reading an actual book. Now that I’m getting used to consuming the short-form content, it’s hard for me to sit down with a book and take my time.”
For a lot of students, like Adra, this is a harsh reality. At the end of a long, hard day, it is much easier to turn toward a passive form of entertainment rather than something that takes brain power. However, some students have always been drawn to reading and, because of that,
they have found ways to integrate it into their busy schedules.
“In my childhood, [reading] was huge,” USD sophomore and English major Tatum Gries said. “I used to go to the bookstore with my mom once a week and we would come home with a huge stack. Today, I would say, during the summer I read a lot, weekly for sure, but, when I’m at school, it’s harder because I’m reading so much for my major. I still have my fun books at school, so I try to read for pleasure whenever I can.”
Gries explained that because she has always loved reading, this drove her toward a discipline that has allowed her to continue
picking up books. She explained that, to her, reading is something that everyone should get to enjoy.
“I think we need to read more,” Gries said. “It’s really good for your brain, it’s so good for your mental health, it really challenges you intellectually and you’re learning new things. I think sometimes when you’re just sitting and scrolling on Instagram for hours, you’re not retaining any of the information that you read versus when you read a book, you remember because it becomes a part of who you are in a way.”
Gries pointed out that reading possesses some kind of power that social media doesn’t; it sticks with people. Not only this, but it also allows one to step into the shoes of someone else, someone unexpected. This is something that the algorithm of social media does not offer, as it is tailored to what each individual viewer wants to see.
“One of the things I really love about what literature and reading can do is that it’s a mind opening experience, and it really engages people’s sense of empathy,” Hasselbach said. “I think reading broadly develops us as people and makes us think outside of ourselves more, instead of just turning inward all the time. You’re allowing someone’s voice to kind of come into your head. I think both of those can be really powerful, and if you’re open enough to read, I think you’re probably open enough to like being moved by experiences outside of yourself.”
Ink and paper have historically been the most powerful form of communication for human civilizations. However, in the recent digital age, people, especially younger generations, have begun to replace the pen for keyboards, paper for screens and books for films. As technology continues to evolve, the potential damage or benefits this could have on society will show in the narratives that are told and the stories that society chooses to listen to each day.
Physical books are disappearing from people’s book bags, bookshelves and even university curriculums.
Shannen Swars/The USD Vista
The Mother Hill Reading Room, known to many as ‘The Harry Potter Room,’ is home to shelves of books.
Photo courtesy of Shannen Swars/ USD Vista
The revival of childhood nostalgia
Reboots and the fine line between flop or flourish
ALEXANDRA ALCALA ASST. A&C EDITOR
Childhood series and movies have been making a comeback for quite some time, but it seems as though not everybody is enjoying them. Reboots have always been around, whether it was continuing franchises such as “Jurassic Park” or expanding the storyline of beloved shows and finished stories such as “Gossip Girl” and “Wizards of Waverly Place.” The biggest incentive behind remakes is that they can be profitable due to their nostalgic elements. Nostalgia is typically what entices previous fans to watch these reboots. However, some don’t bother out of fear of being disappointed.
“Jurassic World” proved that reboots can be profitable as the film made more money than “Jurassic Park,” the original movie. The first three “Jurassic World” films gained success in the box office quickly and ended up becoming blockbuster hits. Nostalgia drew in the public when they decided to continue the story, which ended in the reboot franchise cumulatively grossing over 1 billion dollars.
“I can go either way on reboots, but I usually enjoy them,” USD sophomore Riley Longo shared. “I always enjoy references to the first movies/ episodes and always like a new storyline with characters I enjoy.”
As seen in the “Jurassic World” franchise, there can be benefits to the reboots and remakes. Making these types of projects has become a trend in the film industry. One of the principal benefits that come with remakes is that it opens up the storyline to new audiences and fresh perspectives. However, this is not always the reality of reboots. Frequently, they receive negative reactions rather than positive remarks.
In these cases, long-time fans from the original movies might not be completely satisfied with the expansion of their favorite films and shows, but younger and newer generations get the chance to enjoy remakes as these new films are created to appeal to their likings. Aspects such as the inclusion of new film technology allow for the enhancement of the watching experience, and soundtracks with popular musicians draw in new viewers. Some students note that, if a franchise is going to create a remake, they have to approach it in a way that will please original fans.
“A series that really stuck with me from my childhood was probably ‘Harry Potter’ because I got to grow up with the characters and it was amazing to see them grow into teenagers at about the same time I was,” Longo said. “I was able to find myself in the characters that
way. I would love to have a reboot but I’d like the original actors to come back and it would definitely need a good story line.”
The topic is considered controversial to many with mixed reactions from viewers. Some say remakes restrict creativity and take away film companies’ opportunity to come up with modern ideas and original storytelling. Some believe that companies should prioritize originality rather than relying on nostalgia for new projects.
“My personal view on reboots isn’t exactly on the positive side,” USD first-year Apryl Flynn said. “I feel like reboots tend to destroy originalism in things. They take away the raw idea, thoughts and inspiration they were planted with.”
Besides the films mentioned previously, remakes and reboots have been screening and entering streaming services more and more frequently.
The “Gossip Girl” reboot came out in 2021, but it was canceled after two seasons of being aired on HBO Max due to negative reviews and a lack of profit. In comparison, the original series aired up to six seasons and won 18 Teen Choice Awards throughout the years of its creation.
A current and ongoing reboot, “That ‘90s Show” is based on “That ‘70s Show” which aired in 1998. The reboot came out last year, but stirred up some controversy as one of the original actors, Danny Masterson, has been in prison after being charged for sexually abusing two women.
Doing a reboot of this series was risky because the audience did not want the series back without the original actors. Yet, other people argued that bringing back Danny Masterson was a mistake and simply not possible. In the end, several original characters returned for the reboot and Masterson’s character’s absence was simply not addressed. However, for some students, this was not enough.
“I watched the ‘That ‘70s Show’ reboot and I actually did not like that one despite the characters being brought back, but that was more because of the writing,” Longo said.
“One rebooted film I’ve watched is ‘Ghostbusters,’” Flynn said. “I feel like this film should have been left as an original piece. ‘Un-rebooted.’ The old ‘Ghostbusters’ had a sense of urbanism to it. Like an old type of movie still with innocence and uniqueness. This new one is filled too much with modernism and influenced by other movies that take away a sense of it being one unique and original piece.”
For students like Flynn, the old-timey atmosphere of the original films was the nostalgic element that drew them away from the reboot.
Opinions on reboots always vary, as it not only depends on personal opinion, but also on the film that is being remade and the approach the creators and directors take in production. Aspects such as the return of original characters, actors and actresses, the evolution of the storyline or even more technical things such as the soundtrack and the cinematography can affect the outcome of the project and the opinion of the audience.
Another reboot that has faced controversy is part of the Ghostbusters franchise. The two original movies that came out during the ‘90s were a hit and instantly became Halloween classics. However, the 2016 reboot was a predominantly female cast. While there still were some appearances from the original cast, this did not seem to appeal to the public and the film quickly started receiving hateful comments and critiques. This did not stop the franchise and, in 2021 and 2024, new “Ghostbusters” movies hit the theaters. Both new movies gave bigger roles to the original cast of characters from the ‘90s. This could be attributed to the film’s major nostalgic sentiment and led to them receiving more positive criticism than the 2016 film.
The ‘Wizards of Waverly Place’ reboot comes to Disney+. Photo courtesy of @davidhenrie/Instagram
The 2016 ‘Ghostbusters’ movie featured a predominantly female cast.
Photo courtesy of @ghostbusters/Instagram
LeBron James and son share the court Father-son duo sets NBA record
LUKAS BLANKENSTEIN CONTRIBUTOR
History was made on Oct. 22 when LeBron James Sr. and his son LeBron Raymone “Bronny” James Jr. became the first ever father-son duo to play on the same team together. The moment came with much anticipation after James Jr. was drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers as the No. 55 pick out of the University of Southern California. This allowed James Jr. to play with his father, James Sr., who is currently playing his sixth season for the Lakers.
This moment also broke records as James Sr. and James Jr. became the highest scoring father-son duo of all time with 40, 670 points — 40,666 from James Sr. and four from James Jr. — surpassing Kobe Bryant (33,643 points all with the Lakers) and his dad Joe “Jellybean” Bryant (5,252 points with the 76ers, Clippers and Rockets) who held a combined total of 38,895 points.
James Jr. and James Sr. shared the court together with four minutes left in the second period. The moment came in the Lakers’ first game of the season on Oct. 22 against the Minnesota Timberwolves, which would end in a 110-103 victory for the Lakers. In the aftermath of their first game, James Sr. discussed what the moment meant to him.
“That moment, us being at the scorer’s table together and checking in together — something I will never forget,” James Sr. said in an interview with ESPN. “No matter how old I get, no matter how my memory may fade as I get older or whatever, I will never forget that moment.”
James Jr. shared his experience trying to deal with the gravity of the moment.
“I tried not to focus on everything that was going on around me and tried to focus on going in as a rookie and not trying to mess up,” James Jr. said to ESPN. “But yeah, I totally did feel the energy, and I appreciate the Laker Nation for showing their support for me and my dad.”
The game was also an interesting spectacle for many fans. This includes USD junior and LeBron James Sr. fan Brandon Gaither.
“I think that this was LeBron’s dream to play with his son, and it is an interesting sight to see father and son share the court for the first time in NBA history,” Gaither stated.
Despite the heartwarming moment, many wondered whether or not James Jr. was ready for the NBA. When James Sr. entered the league, he was drafted first overall straight out of high school with the expectation of being one of the next great players,
famously being shown on the cover of Sports Illustrated with
the title “The Chosen One” before ever being drafted. By contrast, James Jr. was drafted 55th overall out of USC with the fourth-to-last pick in the NBA draft. Players drafted this late rarely become regular NBA contributors.
According to an article by Tim Reynolds of the Associated Press, every NBA 55th overall draft pick since the first NBA draft in 1950 has combined to score 22,364 points, which is over 12,000 less points than LeBron.
Many believe that James Jr. was not ready for the NBA, including USD senior and Warriors fan Ernest Zmrzli.
However, Zmrzli doesn’t blame the Lakers for making the decision to draft Bronny.
“Judging by his limited role and skills at USC, I don’t think that he was ready for the NBA at the time,” Zmrzli said. “Ultimately, it’s a business, and there’s really very little risk in picking him at 55.”
James Jr. turned out to not be ready for the NBA, as it was announced on Nov. 7 that James Jr. was being sent down to the NBA G-League South Bay Lakers. The G-League is the NBA’s equivalent to the minor leagues in baseball, where young prospects can play and get more practice in for the big stage. The
demotion came after James Jr. was only given 13 total minutes across his first four games, where he scored only 1.0 point per game, with 0.3 rebounds and 0.5 assists. USD first-year and Lakers fan Max Acosta believes that the decision to send James Jr. down was ultimately the correct call.
“I think it’s the right move for him,” Acosta claimed. “I don’t think he has the experience yet. He was a freshman in college, I think his dad and the media pushed him too hard. I just don’t think he’s fitting into the NBA yet, but maybe after a few years in the G-League [he will]. He just needs more experience.”
While James Sr. and the Lakers haven’t gotten the happy ending they have wanted so far with James Jr. being sent down to the G-League, it doesn’t take away from the moment that was created. Even if James Jr. never plays another game in the NBA, fans will always remember the moment that he first shared the court with his father.
The Lakers have a record of six wins and four losses so far as it’s still early on in the season. The team last won an NBA championship in 2020 and is looking for more.
The father-son duo seen conversing together on the bench during a home game.
Photo courtesy of @kingjames/Instagram
LeBron James Sr. and “Bronny” James Jr. share the court.
Photo courtesy of @kingjames/Instagram
USD swim and dive makes a splash Toreros enter invitational competition season SPORTS
PRIYA COOPER SPORTS EDITOR
The USD women’s swim and dive team recently competed in Pasadena, CA at a California Institute of Technology and California Baptist University meet. The meet took place on the weekend of Oct. 26 and marked multiple successes for the team.
The meet was also the last of the regular season with the remaining competitions over the next month being Invitationals.
During the combined meet, San Diego swimming split the two matchups, taking down the Caltech Beavers by a score of 223 to 74, but falling to the California Baptist Lancers by a 190 to 107 margin.
The meet highlighted areas for improvement in the individual performances as the Toreros approach tougher competition in the upcoming invitational season.
Individually, USD senior Gabrielle Zinis earned a first place finish in the 50 yard freestyle. Meanwhile, Catherine Dueck placed first in the 200 yard individual medley.
The Toreros also exceeded collectively in the team events. In the relay events, USD showcased its strength and clinched first place in the 400-yard freestyle relay, a victory that highlights their speed and teamwork. They also earned a second-place
finish in the 200-yard medley relay, rounding out the meet with solid performances across various disciplines. These results are promising for USD as they prepare to face more competitors in the invitational meets ahead.
Looking ahead, USD junior Ava Delany shared the team’s enthusiasm and her own personal goals for the upcoming competitions, the Utah Tech Invite and the Trojan Dive Invite.
“As a team, we are really excited for our upcoming midseason meet,” Delany said.
“We get to travel to Utah Tech for a three day meet, which is really great for team bonding. Personally, I’m hoping this season to get some personal bests and have a strong conference meet.”
Delany’s comments reflect the collective ambition within the team as they prepare for the high-stakes competitions to come. In reflecting on her journey with the team, USD senior Camilla Trolle expressed a deep sense of gratitude and pride, noting how her experience has been shaped by a mutual encouragement among her teammates. She highlights the daily motivation that comes from being surrounded by supportive individuals who push each other to excel.
“It is my fourth year on the team, and I am so grateful
to be a part of a team that is competitive and pushes one another to be their best self,” Trolle said. “Walking on the
pool deck everyday and being surrounded by such loving and supportive girls is the reason I continue to push myself in and out of the water and it has been a surreal experience.”
As the team prepares for an upcoming midseason competition in Utah, Trolle conveyed her excitement and sense of accomplishment, underscoring her commitment to perform well and to maintain a positive influence within the team
“We are getting ready to compete at our midseason meet in Utah in a week, and I could not be more proud of myself or the team’s accomplishment thus far and cannot wait to race at such a high level, competitive meet,” Trolle said.
“I hope to continue to be a positive voice on the team and swim some season-best times to not only make myself proud, but my team and coaches.”
USD senior Shelby Nicolaisen discussed the sport’s impact on her personal growth and commitment. She emphasized how the intensity of racing strengthens her resolve and fuels her determination.
“Racing always grounds me in dedication and the determination
to face challenges head on,” Nicolaisen said. “Especially as I head into my last few months as a swimmer, I am more driven then ever to give everything in the pool for myself and for my teammates that continue to make swimming something I am passionate about.”
The team will next compete at the Utah Tech Invitational, held in St. George, Utah, from Thursday, Nov. 21, to Saturday, Nov. 23. USD sophomore Claudia Dumais shared her goals going into the next meet.
“We have a great season ahead, and I am looking forward to getting some best times,” Dumais said. “Also, excited for our midseason meet in Utah next weekend!”
This invitational will be a great opportunity for the Toreros to gauge their progress, set new personal records and build momentum for the conference meets that lie ahead. With a strong foundation from their recent performances, the Toreros are positioned to finish the season with confidence and determination before picking up again in the winter season which starts in January, as there is only one meet in December.
Photo courtesy of Kaila Nguyen
USD swim confidently takes on their races, knowing they have the support of their team.