Volume 57, Issue 3

TheUSDVISTA

Volume 57 Issue 3

Thursday, September 26, 2019

On Newsstands Weekly

◆ The Official Student Newspaper of the University of San Diego since 1968 ◆

‘Our planet, our future’ Roughly 200 USD students participate in march for climate action

USD students gathered to call for climate action last Friday, with many Toreros choosing to leave their classes to participate in the demonstration.

Mikaela Foehr Asst. News Editor As the noon Immaculata bells chimed on Friday, Sept.

20, students, teachers, and community members gathered to demand climate action. Chants of “Our planet, our future” filled the air alongside waving signs calling on people to realize that “There is no planet B.” The University of San Diego’s Climate Walkout was organized primarily by a committee of

graduate students from the School of Leadership and Education Sciences (SOLES), working closely with members of the undergraduate Be Blue Go Green club and the Department of Environmental and Ocean Sciences. Junior Environmental Studies major Gianna Peterson was the only undergraduate student who worked on the committee.

The strike lasted about 90 minutes, featuring music, snacks, student speakers, and organized

chants. Event organizers initially planned to hold it on the Colachis Plaza lawn, but at the last minute they elected to remain on the sidewalk to keep the event accessible to demonstrators who have wheelchairs or difficulty walking on uneven ground.

Organizers deliberately planned the strike to conflict with class time, attempting to illustrate the importance of taking climate action. For some students, like junior Environmental Studies major Emily Pipkin, the choice to

Mikaela Foehr/The USD Vista

walk out of class was easy. “(The Environmental Studies professors) were very supportive,” Pipkin said. “A couple teachers out here have even brought their classes out and most of my professors have given us the green light to participate.”

To others, the decision of whether to walk out was a more difficult choice.

Sophomore Cassidy Bates illustrated this dilemma.

“I hesitate skipping class

See Climate, Page 2

Toreros beat Harvard Chris Spiering Sports Editor Once again, it was another thrilling finish as the Toreros earned their first victory of the season by a score of 31-23 against Harvard University.

Six seconds into the game, the Toreros jumped out to an early ,7-0 lead when redshirt senior quarterback Reid Sinnett found a wide-open senior receiver Michael Bandy for a 75-yard touchdown reception on the first play of the game. Bandy had an impressive first quarter, with four catches and 98 yards that propelled the Toreros to a strong offensive start.

USD had 173 total yards in the first quarter to Harvard’s 22 total yards. After a field goal by redshirt junior Tanner Kuljian, the score was 10-0 after the first quarter.

Bandy was a consensus AllAmerican in 2018. He was also on the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) Athletic Director’s Association (ADA) All-American Team ­— the first USD player to earn the honor in program history. Bandy is currently on the STATS FCS Walter Payton award preseason watch list, which is considered the “Heisman Trophy” for the FCS. Bandy finished the game with eight catches for 159 yards and one touchdown.

“He is the best receiver in the country,” Sinnett said. “Throwing

See Football, Page 12

Two degrees, two years overseas

USD’s Dual Degree Program allows students to spend two years in Lisbon, Portugal While most students study abroad for a couple weeks during intersession or for a semester, two sophomore Toreros have made the decision to spend two years of their college experience in Portugal as a part of the University of San Diego’s Dual Degree Program.

According to a 2018 report by the Institute for International Education, the University of San Diego has the highest undergraduate study abroad participation rate in the United States, clocking in at 76.9 percent of undergrad Toreros choosing to pursue their studies in an entirely different country.

Javen Torres and Erica Reid, sophomores, are attending the Universidade Católica Portuguesa (UCP). They have begun this

semester in Lisbon, Portugal and will not return to USD until their senior year.

This two-year program abroad is a unique study abroad opportunity for International Business majors, as it allows students to receive a degree from both UCP and USD. While living in a foreign country for two years might seem like a big step for some, Torres is confident in his decision to study in Portugal because of the unique opportunity he sees in this experience.

“So far, I am happy with my decision,” Torres said. “It is evident that the experience will come with a great outcome. UCP is very regarded in the business world which will lead to many new global opportunities.”

Though Torres is receiving a quality education, the classes can be difficult.

“The classes are much more demanding than any I have ever taken,” Torres said. “The environment is very different as well.”

Each class at UCP has two sections. In theoretical classes, professors lecture. In practical classes, students practice the material. Therefore, for each class a student takes there will be two professors, giving students more support in this new learning environment. Though classes are taught in English, the material itself can be challenging.

Besides keeping up with school, these students must adjust to life abroad. Torres expressed that living in a new and unfamiliar country can be a culture shock at first.

“There are some cultural differences,” said Torres, “For example, alcohol consumption

Hong Kong protests

Editorial: Climate change

A glimpse of Tecolote Canyon

Mayella Vasquez Asst. Feature Editor

See News, page 3

See Opinion, page 4

See Dual Degree, Page 5

See Feature, pages 6-7

Students in the Dual Degree Program spend two years in Lisbon, Portugal.

Photo courtesy of Erica Reid

A bite of San Diego See A&C, page 9

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Volleyball sweeps tourney See Sports, page 11

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The USD Vista

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September 26, 2019

NEWS

Calling for climate action Students demand further action from the University of San Diego

Climate from Page 1

because I don’t want to miss out on the lesson, but I know that this is definitely more important than one class,” Bates said.

In all, the USD walkout attracted roughly 200 protestors, with more pausing to listen to speeches or sign the circulating petition — a big turnout for a campus that rarely sees large displays of student activism.

This event was one of hundreds happening around the world that occured over the course of the day. Over 150 countries participated in the protest, leading millions of people to walk out of school and work, and making this one of the largest youth-led protests in history, according to The Washington Post.

The worldwide protests were planned three days ahead of the United Nations’ Climate Action Summit, held on Sept. 23, to send a message to the representatives that the global citizenship recognizes the severity of this issue. This sentiment was echoed on USD’s campus as well during the walkout.

Over the course of the protest, a few pre-selected students spoke on the issue of climate change.

Although each one presented a different aspect of the issue, they all shared a common thread: saving our planet is going to take cooperation. Nat Yee, a junior from Hawai’i, invited those gathered to “malama honua” with him. He explained these words as a Hawaiian phrase that asks people to care for their natural home. Yee connected the phrase to USD by requesting the crowd to join him “in taking care of our island planet, since there is nowhere else for us to go.”

Jacob Plannell, a sophomore from Sweden, commented on the power of the Climate Action movement.

“Not only does this movement put pressure on decision makers to act, but it also puts pressure on all people to make this the norm,” Plannell said.

The pressure that Plannell spoke to could be seen through the campus community members who passed by the protest. Many people stopped, at least for a short time, to listen to the speakers, sign the petition, or add their reason for caring about climate change to a sidewalk chalk mural, even if they were headed to one of their classes.

The small speeches culminated in the reading of a letter addressed to USD President James T. Harris III, D.Ed., who was not in attendance. The letter, read passionately by senior Davis Launava, outlined aspects of the university’s “Care For Our Common Home” initiative that some students weren’t satisfied with. It also listed demands for what they wanted to see from the school’s administration going forward, in respect to their sustainability plans. After the letter reading, Gianna Petersen, one of the event leaders, acknowledged the fact that the letter was written before a climateaction-related email from Harris was sent out. She also emphasized that the letter, although strongly worded, “is intended to inspire community, not animosity.”

In the email, Harris listed some achievements of the university in relation to the 2016 Climate Action Plan, also naming Michel Bourdrias, Ph.D., current chair of the Department of Environmental and Ocean Sciences, as the Sustainability Task Force’s chair. Petersen noted that the achievements Harris listed, such as the fact that USD

Toreros shouted chants and hoisted signs drawing attention to climate change.

Mikaela Foehr/The USD Vista

decreased its greenhouse gas emissions by nearly 20 percent over the last 10 years, are worth feeling pride over. However, she also believes that the USD community shouldn’t stop there.

She asked those gathered to not be afraid to ask for more because she believes the current plans in place aren’t enough.

Petersen, the sole undergraduate orchestrator of the walkout, took the last moments of the event to address the crowd as a whole once more to describe the global scale of this issue. “(Climate change) is a

problem that transcends borders, both physically and socially constructed,” Petersen said. “I call on you to continue on this path of action until our goals at this university, and until our goals as a planet, are met.”

The Climate Walkouts, both at USD and across the globe, were designed as a way to demand action on an issue that many believe is overlooked. With 165 signatures and counting attached to the bottom of the student letter to President Harris, it is clear that a portion of the USD student body is standing with them.

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Volume 57 Issue 3

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NEWS

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The USD Vista

Protests unsettle Hong Kong

3

USD’s International Center removes Hong Kong from Intersession 2020 course list

Luke Garrett News Editor

Seas of people have crowded the streets of Hong Kong, China since last spring in two distinct groups — one claiming to fight for their democratic rights and the other claiming to fight domestic terrorists and gangs.

The ideological conflict between the Hong Kong protesters and their government has gone on for 16 weeks and shows no sign of stopping.

Hong Kong’s uncertain future caused the University of San Diego’s International Center to strike the city from the list of Intersession study abroad locations on Sept. 10. The city has been steeped in an ideological struggle over the past four months, leading to a mix of both violent and peaceful protests.

The former British territory entered into political unrest after a proposed extradition bill supported by mainland China was introduced to Hong Kong lawmakers. The bill would allow mainland China to pick up and detain anyone, where judges must follow the orders of the Communist Party.

Protests broke out in opposition to the extradition bill because Hong Kongers feared it would erode the city’s unique sovereignty and autonomy ensured by the “one country, two systems” agreement between China and Great Britain.

Political unrest concerning Hong Kong’s sovereignty and democratic values have occurred in years past, the most notable being the peaceful Umbrella Movement in 2014, in which students protested against mainland China’s decision to reform Hong Kong’s electoral

Political unrest within the city of Hong Kong has manifested itself in the form of both peaceful and violent protests.

system. The protest overwhelmed police and left some portions of the city closed for 77 days. Despite the umbrella protestors’ efforts, police became violent and broke up the group. The government made no concessions after the 2014 protests.

The current protests are of a different sort than the Umbrella Movement — a combination of peaceful protest by day and violent protest by night. This has proved partially successful as the extradition bill was removed from the Hong Kong legislature on Sept. 4. Despite the removal of the bill, protesters will continue to march until their other four demands are met: for Chief Executive of Hong Kong Carrie Lam to step down, an inquiry into police brutality, for those who

have been arrested to be released, and greater democratic freedoms.

The Director of USD’s International Center, Kira Espiritu, Ph.D., provided the reason for the center’s decision to remove Hong Kong from the list of Intersession locations.

“We removed Hong Kong from the intersession Asia Tour due to the uncertainty of how the situation would develop,” Espiritu said. “We also relocated our regular Hong Kong intersession program to Tokyo for the same reason. We need to make plans months in advance to secure lodging and classroom accommodations and enrollment in these two programs. (The plans) had come to a standstill with the daily news reports.”

The university’s decision to

Protesters fill the streets of Hong Kong in response to a proposed extradition bill supported by mainland China.

Photo courtesy of Studio Incendo/Flickr

The USD Vista Kaia Hubbard - Editor in Chief Anderson Haigler - Associate Editor Celina Tebor - Managing Editor Amy Inkrott - Copy Editor Alee Pingol - Art Director Luke Garrett - News Editor Eric Boose - Opinion Editor

Catherine Silvey - Feature Editor Lizzy Jennings - Arts & Culture Editor Chris Spiering - Sports Editor Zoé Morales Martinez - Photo Editor Connor Buckley - Distribution Manager Molly Feeney - Social Media Manager Jake Schmid - Finance Manager

exclude the city from Intersession was not an easy one.

“This was done with great regret, as USD has been operating programs in Hong Kong for decades, and we have a great source of alumni there that help enrich our program,” Espiritu said.

Students were notified of the decision through an email from the International Center on Sept. 10. Espiritu explained that student voices were involved in the decision.

“Student concerns were considered in the decisionmaking process,” Espiritu said.

“Faculty teaching the various courses and the staff in the USD International Center ultimately made the decision to remove Hong Kong from the Asia Tour and relocate the regular Hong Kong program to Tokyo.”

Senior Sofia Silvestri went to Hong Kong during Intersession 2019 and spoke to the city’s unique political identity.

“It was very evident ... that Hong Kong was very proud of its independence in government from China and wanted to keep it that way,” Silvestri said. “It is such a great loss to not have Hong Kong as an option for Intersession. It was such an amazing experience not only studying in Hong Kong but exploring the unique culture it has to offer.”

Hong Kong’s political position began in 1842 when the Qing Dynasty ceded the territory to the British Empire to end the First Opium War. The British then ruled Hong Kong for more than

Editorial – 619.260.4584 Business – 619.260.4714 www.uofsdmedia.com / @TheUSDVista Razann Rizk - Advertising Manager Gina Lew - Student Media Advisor Marie Minnick - Operations Advisor

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150 years, all the while ingraining Western and democratic values and laws within the city. In 1997 the city was returned to Chinese rule along with the “one country, two systems” agreement that guarded Hong Kong’s political autonomy from the mainland for the next 5o years.

It is these inherent ideological differences between the democratic Hong Kong and socialist mainland China that lie at the center of the political unrest.

As the protests in Hong Kong continue, the Chinese media in the mainland describe protesters as domestic terrorists. These state-controlled media outlets have also claimed that western governments, like the U.S. and the U.K., are the orchestrators of Hong Kong’s unrest.

Hong Kong protesters deny these claims made by the Chineseowned media and have begun to estrange themselves from mainland China. Most notably, Hong Kongers have started to sing a new anthem created online this past month named “Glory to Hong Kong.” This song is sung over the Chinese national anthem during soccer games and in malls.

The anonymous author of the protest’s anthem created the lyrics on an online forum. The fourth and final stanza of the anthem reads, “Liberate Hong Kong; revolution of our time.”

USD students will not be able to hear this anthem sung this Intersession, although the anthem may serve as a topic of study for future students no matter the result of the unrest in Hong Kong.

The USD Vista publication is written and edited by USD students and funded by revenues generated by advertising and a student fee.

Advertising material published is for information purposes only and is not to be construed as an expressed or implied endorsement or verification of such commercial venues by the staff or University.

The USD Vista office is located on the fourth floor of the Student Life Pavilion in room 403B. All inquiries should be sent to: The USD Vista 5998 Alcala Park San Diego, CA 92110 Opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of The USD Vista staff, the University of San Diego or of its student body.

Letters to the Editor can be submitted to The USD Vista office.

Letters should be limited to 300 words and must be signed. For identification purposes, USD identification numbers and writer’s year must be included in the letter. The USD Vista reserves the right to edit published letters. Any content sent to the editor will be considered for publication unless otherwise stated.

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The USD Vista

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September 26, 2019

E DI TOR IA L

No more profit over planet

Addressing climate emergency requires large-scale action to end corporate pollution Eric Boose Opinion Editor Last week, the University of California system did the right thing for the wrong reasons.

Calling them a financial risk, the UC dropped all of their investments in companies “involved with extracting fossil fuels.”

Institutional divestment from fossil fuels is a key victory in the fight against climate change, and the UC system is only part of a growing movement which has led to the divestment of approximately $11 trillion in fossil fuel assets from over 1,000 companies, according to the environmental organization 350.org.

However, the UC’s divestment is slightly problematic. First, the university system has not laid out a detailed plan for how they will divest, or what they consider to be a fossil fuel asset, only that they would divest by the end of this month. Second, and far more importantly, the UC did not divest for idealistic, environmentalist reasons. In an Op-Ed in The Los Angeles Times announcing the decision, the UC’s fund managers wrote, “The reason we sold some $150 million in fossil fuel assets from our endowment was the reason we sell other assets: They posed a long-term risk to generating strong returns for UC’s diversified portfolios.”

This disconnect, taking environmentalist action for financial reasons rather than idealistic ones, is worth remembering. The University of California will by no means be the last institution to make a similar choice, for similar reasons. Regardless of their reasoning, the UC’s decision to divest still counts as a victory in combatting climate change.

In total, the UC system holds $80 billion in assets. For an organization with that much investment power to consciously invest none of that money in fossil fuel organizations sends a message that a move away from those companies is a wise one. Ultimately, divestment from fossil fuels should be a moral imperative. According to a 2017 report from the Climate Accountability Institute, one fifth of all global greenhouse gas emissions are supported by investment from public institutions like the University of California. Now is the time to put serious financial pressure on companies which do significant harm to the environment, who have historically downplayed the danger of climate change, and who actively resist necessarily strict emissions restrictions.

At this point in time, the fight against climate change must turn to a bigger picture.

In general, corporations have a far greater impact on the environment than any

one individual. Between 1988 and 2017, a group of only 100 companies generated 71 percent of all global emissions, according to The Guardian. Despite this, we as individuals seem to have been convinced that we carry the greatest blame for the changing climate. We are told to recycle, to carpool, to buy local products, and to avoid plastic straws and bags. Only recently have we begun trying to hold corporations, governments, and even universities accountable for the massive role they play in creating this climate crisis.

All of the efforts we make as individuals should not be downplayed, but even if every person in the world made those small changes we are told to make, as long as corporations continue their current emissions habits, it might not be enough.

There is something we can do, as individuals, which may have enough of an impact to make meaningful change. On Friday, Sept. 20, over four million people across 163 countries took to the streets in the single largest climate protest ever. At the time of writing this, no major change has come of it, but the global climate strike is a demonstration of how powerful a unified group of individuals can be. And in the fight against climate change, unified action can take many forms.

In the United States, at least in principle, power is

Statistic from The Guardian

ultimately vested in the people, both in government and in business. In terms of large-scale institutional action, there is no more effective way to combat climate change than to vote, and to vote for candidates who will make serious change. While the federal government under the current administration has gone to great lengths to roll back environmental protections, states and cities have taken positive action. California has boasted some of the strictest environmental protections in the country for years, and is now gearing up for a federal lawsuit in order to keep those protections in place. On election day, every race matters, from the president to the city council.

While the government’s ability to create restrictions and fund clean energy infrastructure makes it the most powerful institution in the fight against climate change, corporations are the most culpable institutions in the creation of the climate emergency.

However, corporations answer to the general public much less than governments. Corporations do answer to their shareholders and investors.

This is why the University of California’s divestment is important. $150 million dollars of investment should be enough to catch people’s attention.

The $11 trillion touted by 350. org should be even more eye-

catching. Investors everywhere, whether individuals or institutions, ought to realize that the world is shifting from the dinosaur of fossil fuels to newer, cleaner energy sources.

It is also worth remembering that the UC’s decision was motivated by financial reasons, not moral ones. It is time to start reminding investors of just how risky investing in fossil fuels can be. It is time to encourage investors to change those fossil fuel investments into clean energy investment. If that can only be accomplished by switching from a moral rhetoric to an economical one, so be it.

This change will take a historical effort, from all of us.

However you choose to fight, it matters that you fight. At this point, inaction is akin to being on the wrong side.

We are facing a climate crisis, and we are on the clock. According to a report from the United Nations’ Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, we now have 11 years to significantly reduce the worldwide negative impact we are making on the environment.

Otherwise, we will face serious, irreversible consequences: heat waves and droughts, bigger and more frequent wildfires, rising sea levels, and even more devastating hurricanes, to name a few. The time for baby steps has long been over. It is time for leaps and bounds.

Statistic from Global Carbon Project

Statistic from USA Today

Statistic from 350.org Amy Inkrott/The USD Vista

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.

Volume 57 Issue 3

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FEATURE

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5

The USD Vista

F E AT U R E

Living abroad for two years Participants of the Dual Degree Program share thoughts about their time abroad

Dual Degree from Page 1

and smoking cigarettes as a teenager is common. And dressing nicely to class is a way of showing respect for the school and its professors.”

Despite certain challenges, Torres expressed gratitude for this unique opportunity and amazement at how his world view had shifted after immersing himself in Portuguese culture.

“Living abroad has helped me realize that there is much more out there than we know,” Torres

said. “We often limit ourselves to opportunities in the United States, but there is more out there than what we take advantage of.”

Sophomore Erica Reid shared similar sentiments.

“Even when I think about how far away from home I am, I still think this is good for me,” Reid said.

Students are responsible for their housing, transportation, and housework, independent from USD, an adjustment that has been difficult for Reid.

Pena Palace’s distinctive color causes it to stand out in Sintra, Portugal.

Photo courtesy of Erica Reid

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“Day to day, my feelings change with regards to coming to terms with my decision,” Reid said. “This is my first time being alone.”

Juggling adult life and her studies can be challenging, especially while acclimating to a completely new environment and language. However, Reid has not encountered as many problems with the language barrier as she thought she would.

“I was expecting to struggle more with communication, but most people speak English,” said Reid. “Classes have been the most challenging part for me.”

Besides engaging with Portuguese culture, Reid shares a flat with international students from France and Slovenia, giving her cultural insight into life in those countries as well.

Reid is also learning about and engaging in UCP’s traditions.

One way UCP introduces new students is through a weekend camping trip. On this trip, there are different activities allowing students to get to know each other.

For Reid, it was also one of her first introductions to Portuguese culture.

The Great Wall of Portugal was built over 1,000 years ago.

Photo courtesy of Erica Reid

Reid regards her experience as positive. However, she advised those considering this program to think a lot about the decision, as there is more personal responsibility and adjustment than one might expect.

Torres agreed with this sentiment, additionally citing that the negative aspects of studying abroad ultimately strengthen the individual.

“The cons of living abroad are that there are many things to

adjust to,” Torres said. “However, it helps develop adaptability, which is a crucial trait.”

This Dual Degrees Program is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for students to acquire unique life skills such as total independence and a more cultured perspective.

USD offers this program in Ireland, Spain, Italy, or France, and interested students can find out more by emailing contact@ ipbsedu.com or visiting the USD International Center.

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The USD Vista

â—†

- STEVEN SMITH

TECOLOTE CANYON SENIOR PARK RANGER

Barn owl

September 26, 2019

Volume 57 Issue 3

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FEATURE

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The USD Vista

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Spread design by Alee Pingol/ The USD Vista; Content by Catherine Silvey/ The USD Vista; Photo by Tanner Claudio/ The USD Vista

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The USD Vista

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September 26, 2019

A ART RT S & CULTURE C U LT U R E

Getting to know USD Radio Rock out to recommendations from the USD Radio Executive team

Lizzy Jennings A&C Editor Though print and TV are important aspects of student media, music is a universal passion that can connect students campus wide that may have nothing but a favorite song in common. That sense of campus connection is why USD Student Media wouldn’t be complete without USD Radio and their hardworking executive team.

USD Radio is an organization that has been rapidly developing on our campus since its creation in 2009. The team produces shows led by student DJs as well as other music-related content, like album reviews and playlists, available for all USD students through the TuneIn app. With music so readily available on online platforms, students can feel inundated with options.

If you’re trying to break away from the top-40 playlists and the songs repeated hourly on every other radio station, look no further than USD’s own radio station to find new music loved by your fellow students.

The USD Vista reached out to our fellow USD Student Media branch in order to get to know more about the organization, what has changed, and what they have planned for this school year.

What are the different executive team roles, and what are you responsible for?

Megan Tristano: I’m the Station Director of USD Radio. I’m in charge of hiring exec, scheduling meetings and training, working with our advisors, the budget, and to collaborate with USDtv and The USD Vista.

Skylar Ouart: I am the Program Director for USD Radio. As Program Director, I

oversee the DJs and manage the shows being produced. I work with our DJs by offering tips and critiques for their shows, as well as helping them create liners, intros, outros, and anything else that would make their shows feel more professional. I’m also in charge of scheduling, hiring new DJs, and helping Megan (our Station Director) with any tasks she needs help on.

Cole Lumby: I am the technical director for USD Radio. My job is to troubleshoot any technical difficulties our DJs experience, and ensure that our station is running smoothly.

Why did you want to get involved with USD radio?

Megan Tristano: I joined radio because I have always had a passion for music, whether it’s singing or playing instruments, and I knew I wanted to follow it in college. I realized this summer especially that I want a career in the music industry, through my internship at the music agency, Comma Music, in Chicago that makes original music for commercials. Joining radio is a great networking opportunity, I have had the chance to meet with people from iHeartRadio through the Intercollegiate Broadcasting System Conference I participated in New York.

Skylar Ouart: I joined USD Radio back during my freshman year, when me and my friend were checking out booths at the Alcalá Bazaar.

We both loved music, and the idea of hanging out in a studio playing music and broadcasting live seemed like it would be so much fun. So we went to the first meeting, got trained at the studio, and the rest is history.

Cole Lumby: I started at USD Radio as a DJ because of my love for music, and I also wanted to gain more

experience in a studio setting.

What are you most looking forward to this year and in your upcoming shows?

Megan Tristano: This year, we have a passionate team full of music-lovers, whose main goal is for DJs to express themselves through radio shows. I’m excited for our DJs to start shows, so we can support and help them improve their shows over time, so they can use their shows to add to their portfolios for job opportunities.

Skylar Ouart: This year, it feels like we have something really special going on at USD Radio which is super exciting.

We just had our biggest turn out ever for our initial interest meeting, our social media accounts are thriving, and our studio was just redesigned to be professional and functional. Our executive board is all on the same page for which direction we want to take the organization, which has led to a lot of great ideas planned for this upcoming year.

The thing I’m most excited for is having our shows broadcasted throughout campus.

We’re working to broadcast in areas such as Aromas, the 2nd floor of the SLP, and the JCP gym, and this should start in October once our new DJs are trained in.

Cole Lumby: I am most excited about bringing our own USD undergraduates music to the radio and hopefully giving these student musicians more exposure.

Any final thoughts?

Megan Tristano: If you’re interested in getting involved please email radiodirector@ sandiego.edu to get more information. Weekly shows start Oct. 6. You can listen through the TuneIn app and search for USD Radio.

Be sure to listen in and support the fantastic executive USD Radio team this October across campus. Also, look

out for the Radio team’s album and concert reviews which will be published periodically in The USD Vista.

USD Radio’s Exec Team’s favorite picks — all in one playlist.

Kalley Kenny/USD Radio

Senior Station Manager Megan Tristano, junior Program Director Skylar Ouart, and senior Technical Director Cole Lumby in their executive team headshots.

Megan Tristano/USD Radio

Volume 57 Issue 3

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ARTS & CULTURE

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The USD Vista

A bite of San Diego

The USD Vista readers write in their favorite Taco Tuesday recommendations Lizzy Jennings A&C Editor Any student in San Diego knows that college isn’t complete without a proper Taco Tuesday. The popular term refers to the deals that occur on Tuesday nights at some Mexican restaurants, which draw in students looking for more affordability when it comes to eating out. However, San Diego is overflowing with options when it comes to this type of cuisine, but how are students supposed to find the highest quality of food for the best price?

A bite of San Diego explored both reader-recommended options and staff suggestions to compile the following list of San Diego taco spots. Follow along below to discover the best Taco Tuesday options for our Toreros.

The Bay Park Fish Company taco spreads, featuring chicken, fish, steak and more, are as visually appealing as they are appetizing.

Photo courtesy of Natalia Postlethwaite

The Taco Stand 621 Pearl Street, La Jolla CA 92037 The Taco Stand is a USD fan favorite, and one of the many recommendations sent in by our readers for this week’s roundup.

One of the most popular Taco Stand locations is located on the busy Pearl Street in La Jolla, and patrons can almost always expect a line and a packed restaurant. The atmosphere is fun, with colorful decorations and a bustling vibe, as customers chowing down on delicious tacos and burritos cover every inch of available space. The Taco Stand draws its inspiration for flavors from the traditional taco stands in Tijuana, and proves that there is no reason to fix something that isn’t broken, especially when that something is good quality and delicious Mexican food. The restaurant offers street parking only, and prices for tacos range from $2 to $4, while prices for burritos and side dishes range from $6 to $9.

Photo courtesy of Natalia Postlethwaite

Photo courtesy of Ricky Flores

Bay Park Fish Company 4121 Ashton Street, San Diego CA 92110 The Bay Park Fish Company was yet another highlyrecommended student favorite when it comes to San Diego taco spots. This family-owned seafood restaurant has an expansive menu, but the tacos are a standout. There are fish, shrimp, and the classic chicken or carne asada tacos, but an especially noteworthy menu item is the seasonal catch tacos that rotate regularly. Though this spot is one of the more expensive options on the list, with taco platters ringing in at $13 to $16, they do offer Taco Tuesday specials that are more student-budget friendly.

Carnitas, shrimp, carne asada, calamari tacos for $3.50, and fish tacos for $4 make this restaurant recommendation an option for everyone. Parking is limited to street spots only, but this restaurant is just a few minutes from campus, so Uber is an affordable and convenient option.

PB Fish Shop 1775 Garnet Ave, San Diego CA 92109 The Pacific Beach Fish Shop, like the Bay Park Fish Company,

is another recommended restaurant that offers more than just tacos. Though they boast a wide variety of fresh fish dishes, PB Fish Shop is also home to an impressive amount of taco options. Diners can select any of the available fish options and a particular marinade, then have their choices served taco style on a flour or corn tortilla. Tacos range from $4 to $6 depending on the choice of fish selected, but the restaurant also offers happy hour specials daily.

Parking is street only in Pacific Beach, which can be especially difficult on the weekends, so Uber is a recommended option.

and freshly made salsas and guacamole. With nine different tacos on the menu, even a picky eater could find an option at this restaurant, especially as the tacos cost just $2.25 each. Tacos El Gordo offers a small amount of parking by the restaurant, and street parking can also be found.

City Tacos 3028 University Ave, San Diego CA 92104 The final spot on this week’s roundup is the beloved City Tacos. With three open locations and three more locations coming soon, the love for this taco shop and its products is clear.

Photo courtesy of Ricky Flores

Emphasizing innovation, this spot provides a unique blend of flavors for its customers. The Taco Tuesday deals are prime at this recommendation, as City Tacos offers $3 house tacos all day, every Tuesday. Tacos range from traditional flavors like carnitas and pollo asado to the more unique “califor” taco, which is one of their vegetarian cauliflower tacos. The North Park location is most accessible for Toreros as it is closest to campus, and parking can be found on the street. Prices range from $3 to $6 for the various taco styles and budget-friendly side dishes.

Photo courtesy of Paige Nordeen

Tacos El Gordo 3265 Palm Ave, San Diego CA 92154 Tacos El Gordo’s first location in the United States opened in San Diego in 1998 and the restaurant has been a city staple ever since. The delicious and authentic style of their tacos keeps customers coming back visit after visit, and the spot has become a local favorite.

Focusing on fresh ingredients, this recommended restaurant was sent in by readers who rave about the simple deliciousness of these classic tacos. The restaurant holds itself to a high standard, aiming to emulate the Tijuana-style taco, with handmade corn tortillas

One of Pacific Beach Fish Shop’s many taco options.

Photo courtesy of Paige Nordeen

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The USD Vista

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September 26, 2019

First-year confessions Weighing in on the transition from high school into college life

Jennifer DeSantis Contributor There is a chocolate milk container in my fridge. It has been there three weeks just like I’ve been here at USD three weeks. Three weeks of navigating the campus, avoiding upperclassmen, fearing to eat alone, and procrastinating (yes already); I have made some friends, found a favorite spot in the library, and successfully did my laundry, so maybe I am doing pretty well. Or am I, like the other 1,500 or so other freshmen, just fooling myself?

Everyone always tells you to get involved as much as you can, so I joined things. According to my email I believe I signed up for around 25 clubs at the Alcalá Bazaar. That is enough, right? I can stop now? Walking around the bazaar felt like a buffet where you put food on your plate before you actually know what it is made of. Which is why my inbox is drowning, unable to allow emails from my Resident Advisor and professors to surface. I really am trying to get out of my comfort zone here, but I honestly think I blew up the zone, and there is not even a bread crumb trail back. Bread crumb trails require an extra swipe at the SLP anyway.

I have also participated in those quintessential freshman outings, acknowledged rites of passage when mentioned to any upperclassman: from moshing at an 18+ club with people who put the plus in 18+, to attending awkward Mission Beach parties

where freshmen stand in a huddle like emperor penguins in the winter and attempt to make small talk. I am over small talk.

These past three weeks have been nothing but exchanging formalities and then immediately forgetting the person’s name I just talked to. You could talk to me about how you are an Olympic gold medalist alpine skier and I promise you, I will not remember your name tomorrow.

It is not you; I just cannot keep up with how many people I am meeting and consequently forgetting. I find the phrase, “excuse me, professor?” allows me to skip learning at least five other names.

I have gotten the hang of going to class and all that timing jazz. But every once and awhile, not every morning, but some of them, or a lot of them, I pull out the MySanDiego app just to make sure I am going to the right classroom at the right time. What if the four other times I obsessively checked were wrong? I am still questioning my timing though. How early is too early? I do not want to seem like the try-hard who shows up to class at the crack of dawn to make sure they are not late. But at the same time, in fact, I do not want to be late, at this moment in my awkward freshman life that would be the worst thing I could imagine: walking into a full classroom and everyone turns and stares at me as I lumber to my seat. Maybe once I am a snazzy and confident sophomore things will change and I will learn to own my true

sloth-like leanings.

On a completely different note, living in a dorm is odd. Let me repeat that for the people in the back: living in a dorm is odd, zany, peculiar, and flat-out weird. Does anyone else wonder at the fact that we are living with total strangers? No one seems to have a problem with that, or at least outwardly.

At this point we all know each other, but not to the point where I can completely appreciate our coexistence. My two roommates seem great, but their very existence leaves me with questions: I don’t even know their middle names or their zodiac signs...

My poor roommates though, I have an 8:00 a.m. class every day, but I try to be as quiet as

possible. I change in my closet to be considerate, but picking out what to wear in the dark is pretty difficult. I find each day I lose motivation to actually dress nice for class and my cute outfits are replaced by sweatshirts and leggings. When I bust out of the closet, I realize that I was actually flailing around in there causing a ruckus and have successfully woken up both of them at least an hour before their alarms were set. Sorry, girls.

I also have to add that, yes, I have already locked myself out of my dorm room. It is bound to happen again. I just blatantly left my ID card right on my desk. Do not even get me started on my ID card. Only a sadistic experimental use of the picture tool function could

have produced that photo, but I digress.

Mildly put, it has been an interesting three weeks. Some of this may have hit home for some of you or resonated deep within your subconscious where you stuffed all awkward memories from freshman year. But I have honestly learned more about my own idiosyncratic behavior in the last 504 hours than in the past 18 years. I wonder how long it will take my roommates to catch on.

Truthfully, I have made genuine connections with people and am enjoying my classes.

Nevertheless, after three weeks, that chocolate milk can now be considered vintage (I should really throw that out), but me, I’m still a very fresh freshman.

Every year, USD welcomes new first-year students during OLÉ Weekend.

Photo courtesy of USD Media Gallery

Volume 57 Issue 3

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SPORTS

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11

The USD Vista

SP ORT S

Volleyball sweeps weekend

Toreros take down rival SDSU, as well as LBSU, and USC in weekend tournament Chris Spiering Sports Editor The University of San Diego women’s volleyball team hosted their second invitational tournament of the season this past weekend. On Thursday night, the Toreros defeated No. 20 University of Southern California (USC) in a thrilling five-set match. On Friday night, USD hosted their crosstown rival San Diego State University (SDSU) and won in three straight sets. And on Saturday night, the Toreros defeated Long Beach State University in three sets as well.

It was a productive and successful weekend for the Toreros. Their win over USC marked their first victory over a ranked opponent this season.

First year opposite setter Grace Frohling tied her career high with 17 kills that helped lead USD to the victory over the Trojans. Frohling racked up a .464 hitting percentage, including going a perfect 3-3 in the deciding fifth set. Frohling has been a big part of the early success for the Toreros.

“To have a freshman be able to step in and carry that much of the offense, we are so thrilled,”

and assists (10). Senior setter Anna Newsome tallied her third double-double of the season with 42 assists and 15 digs.

The opening set of the match was even for the most part, as there were a combined seven ties, but the Toreros pulled away and took the first set 25-18. The second set was similar as USC held their ground early on, but USD did not let up and won 2517.

Both teams were battling in the third set as USC was on the verge of being swept. They Trojans rallied for a 9-2 run and won by the score of 25-19. The fourth set was more of the same as the Trojans won 25-18.

The Toreros refused to be denied in the fifth set as they led the entire time. The Trojans’ last serve sailed too long and USD won 15-13 and took the match three sets to two. The Toreros were lighting up the backcourt with 61 total digs to the Trojans’ 43.

Friday night, the Toreros carried their momentum from Thursday night’s win and hit .323 in the match with seven aces and six team blocks as they defeated their rivals, SDSU. This was their fifth sweep of the season.

“It was really exciting to play SDSU, because last year we lost to them at their place. So we wanted revenge and we were very hungry.”

-Anna Newsome USD women’s volleyball head coach Jennifer Petrie said. “She has played well against some of the top teams in the country. As a freshman, her future is going to be outstanding.”

Thursday night was also a career night for sophomore libero Annie Benbow. She earned her first career double-double with a career high in digs (18)

The Toreros were strong on defense, not allowing the Aztecs to hit the ball well. USD limited the Aztecs to a .124 hitting percentage. The Toreros’ serving was on point all night, and it seemed to be too tough for the Aztecs. USD collected seven aces, while SDSU had zero aces as the Aztecs committed eight service errors.

Sophomore outside hitter Katie Lukes hits the ball over the net against Long Beach State University.

Zoé Morales Martinez/The USD Vista

Newsome and sophomore setter Laura Madill split the setting duties.

Newsome finished with 22 assists, seven digs, one kill, and one ace, while Madill added 16 assists and two digs.

The Toreros were hot from the opening set. USD had an early five-point run that included three aces by Frohling. Frohling had a thrilling four aces in that first set while finishing the night with eight kills, four aces, and two blocks.

USD held the Aztecs to a low .067 hitting percentage.

The Toreros kept SDSU out of rhythm all night.

“It was really important for us to not only start off well, but to finish well,” Petrie said. “I think in some of the previous matches we’ve played, we’ve had some good stretches but we haven’t put together a complete match and tonight they absolutely did that.”

Seniors Payton Douglass (left) and Thana Fayad (right) watch their opponent get ready to serve.

Zoé Morales Martinez/The USD Vista

Both teams traded points in the third set, but USD pulled away as the Aztecs committed back-to-back hitting errors.

Outside hitters Katie Lukes, sophomore, and Thana Fayad, senior, recorded five kills apiece to seal the 25-20 victory. Lukes finished the night with 13 kills and one block, while Fayad finished with 10 kills and one block. Senior middle blocker Megan Jacobsen contributed with six kills and three blocks on the night.

Last year the Toreros didn’t perform as well as they would have hoped against SDSU. “It was really exciting to play

and sixth of the season.

Three separate Toreros finished the match with at least five blocks apiece and two finished with three apiece.

Fayad led the Toreros with nine digs in the backcourt. Benbow finished with eight and senior libero Payton Douglass finished with seven.

It was all Toreros in the first set as they jumped out to an early 7-2 advantage. USD went on a nine-point run midway through the set that made the score 18-4.

Long Beach struggled to get their offense going as they committed 10 hitting errors while the Toreros only committed three.

“I think our fans did a great job creating a home court environment for us.”

-Coach Jennifer Petrie SDSU because last year we lost to them at their place,” Newsome said. “So we wanted revenge and we were very hungry.”

No matter the sport, beating SDSU is always exciting for both the Torero players and fans.

“Anytime any sport plays, the rivalry is strong and great and both teams want to dominate each other,” Petrie said. “We’re thrilled to have won this one and to be at home, I think our fans did a fantastic job creating a good home court environment for us.”

The Bull Pit was electric all night, energizing the team with their chants.

Saturday night was the final game of the tournament as USD hosted Long Beach State. It was a block party for the Toreros as they finished the match with a season-high 15 team blocks.

San Diego defeated the Beach in three straight sets, marking their second sweep of the weekend

Long Beach wouldn’t give up as they came out of the intermission holding an early 5-3 lead in the third set. But it wasn’t enough as the Toreros put together a 7-1 run to retake the lead 10-6. However, the Beach didn’t go down without a fight.

They had brought the score back to 12-12 even. Both teams were trading points down the stretch with the game tied 23-23. The Toreros ended the night with a block to seal the 25-23 third set victory and took the match 3-0.

It was a successful weekend for the Toreros as they improved their record to 7-4 on the season.

USD will begin West Coast Conference play on the road as they travel to the University of Portland on Thursday, Sept. 26 at 7 p.m. and Gonzaga University on Saturday, Sept. 28 at 12 p.m.

Their next home game is against Pepperdine University on Tuesday, Oct. 1 at 7 p.m. in the Jenny Craig Pavilion.

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The USD Vista

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September 26, 2019

USD football defeats Harvard Crimson comeback attempt not enough as the Toreros earn first win of season

Football from Page 1

him the ball makes it easier on me. He’s a stud and we’re going to keep trying to get him the ball every week.”

His performance on the field so far this season proved he is worthy of these honors.

The first play of the second quarter was another long 57yard touchdown pass by Sinnett, but this time to sophomore tight end Dalton Kincaid. It was 17-0 Toreros. Kincaid had three receptions for 103 yards and one touchdown on the day.

After a missed field goal by the Crimson, USD drove 60 yards in less than two minutes that led to another touchdown pass by Sinnett to sophomore receiver Alex Spadone. The score was 24-0 Toreros with less than two minutes to play in the half.

It wasn’t all offense in the first half for USD. The Torero

Toreros had an outstanding 305 offensive-yard total and held the Crimson to only 70 total firsthalf yards. Both sides of the ball dominated the first half.

“We told everybody to play fast, and that is what we did for the most part of the first half,” senior defensive back Daniel Tolbert said. “Overall, that first half was the best defense we have played, maybe since I have been here.”

The second half of the game was a completely different story.

Harvard received the ball and Smith threw a missile to Cody Chrest for a 75-yard touchdown.

The shutout was no more.

A couple possessions later, the Toreros responded with a seven-play, 68-yard drive that was set up by a one-yard touchdown run by junior running back Emillio Martinez.

That score would be the last

“I saw us play an extremely good first half, and a mediocre second half. We had too many penalties in the game. We need to correct that if we are going to be a championship team.”

-Coach Lindsey defense stepped up huge with five tackles for a loss of yards, and three sacks. Two of the three sacks were recorded by redshirt junior Kevin Glajchen, and on the final play of the first half, redshirt junior Chris Reese sacked Harvard’s quarterback, Jake Smith.

The halftime score was 24-0 USD over Harvard. The

for the Toreros, as Harvard’s comeback was in the making.

Harvard’s starting running back Devin Darrington was a force to be reckoned with. He finished the game with only 71 rushing yards, but his 20 attempts carried the load for the Crimson.

There were a few carries where it took multiple Torero defenders to take him down.

Near the end of the third quarter, junior defensive back Michael Hawkins deflected a pass intended for Harvard’s receiver James Batch on what had seemed to be a wide-open touchdown. Hawkins played a critical role for the Torero defense with seven total tackles and two tackles for a loss of yards.

The fourth quarter was all Harvard. The Crimson started the quarter with a nine-play, 77-yard drive that was scored by tight end Kyle Klink to cut the lead to 31-13. They attempted a two-point conversion, but were unsuccessful.

After a scoreless possession

by USD, Harvard responded with an 80-yard touchdown strike on the first play of the drive by Smith to receiver Jack Cook. The lead for the Toreros was 31-20.

The Crimson would not go away quietly. With under six minutes remaining, the Torero defense held them to a field goal that cut USD’s lead to 31-23. It was only a one-possession game.

USD got the ball back with just over three minutes remaining in the game. Their goal was to run out the clock and not give the Crimson another opportunity to score a game-tying touchdown.

But Harvard’s defense forced the Toreros to punt the ball back to the Crimson.

It seemed as if all the momentum was on Harvard’s side of the ball. As the Crimson were looking to score a game tying touchdown, senior Daniel Tolbert picked off Smith, which

sealed the victory, and the Toreros had won by a score of 31-23.

“Honestly, I had been out for the last five weeks, so I feel like I had to make up for lost time,” Tolbert said. “I was just reading the quarterback the whole way, I saw him roll out and I located the receiver a little bit to the

The Pioneer Football League (PFL) announced Sunday that redshirt senior quarterback Reid Sinnett and redshirt junior defensive end Kevin Glajchen were awarded conference Offensive Player of the Week and Defensive Player of the Week, respectively. Sinnett threw for the most yards out of any PFL

“I was just reading the quarterback the whole way and I was like ‘I got to beat him to the ball,’ and luckily I did.”

-Daniel Tolbert right of me, and I was like, ‘I got to beat him to the ball,’ and luckily I did.”

Defensively, USD finished the game with three sacks and a combined seven tackles for a loss. Glajchen was all over the place for the Toreros, as it seemed like he was involved in every play.

“Kevin shows up,” USD football head coach Dale Lindsey said. “He works on his craft everyday. He takes no plays off in practice and during the game.

He is 100 percent all the time.”

It was a tale of two halves for the Toreros, but the team got it done when it mattered.

“I saw us play an extremely good first half, and a mediocre second half,” Lindsey said. “We had too many penalties in the game. We hurt ourselves and we need to correct that if we are going to be a championship team.”

The Toreros finished the game with 12 penalties for 152 yards.

Junior Emilio Martinez (left) and sophomore Alex Spadone (right) celebrate after a touchdown reception that was caught by Spadone against Harvard.

quarterback with 384 total passing yards. Glajchen had a game-high 10 tackles and two sacks with four tackles for a loss.

This was the first PFL honor for both players’ careers.

The Toreros have another bye next weekend as they get ready for PFL play. Their next game is during Homecoming Weekend Saturday, Oct. 5 against Marist University at 2 p.m. in Torero Stadium.

Whats Next: USD vs. Marist Saturday, Oct. 5 @ 2 p.m.

Torero Stadium USD vs. Valparaiso Saturday, Oct. 19 @ 2 p.m.

Torero Staduim USD vs. Drake Saturday, Nov. 2 @ 2 p.m.

Torero Stadium

Photo courtesy of USD Athletics