THE USD VISTA
students Immigration orders heighten fear
EMMA PIRHALA NEWS EDITOR
As students returned to campus for the start of the semester, fears regarding the future of immigrant and international students on campus raised concerns across the University. Trump’s new immigration directives divide the country, but are uniquely impacting USD as a Catholic institution positioned on the border. In San Diego, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) have noticeably increased their operations. ICE reported that in the final six days of January, 5,943 people were arrested. This has resulted in backlash, with protests erupting against the increase of enforcement activities.
The surge in immigration enforcement activities followed a slew of executive orders issued by Trump during his first days in office. Amongst these new directives are two orders directly focusing on immigration. Trump granted ICE the ability to enter sensitive areas, such See Immigration, Page 2
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LUKAS BLANKENSTEIN CONTRIBUTOR
Winter break is usually a time for everyone to relax and destress. Unfortunately, USD student-athletes were afforded no such luxury on the courts, fields or pools as they continued to play important games throughout the break. Meanwhile, coaches were busy preparing for the start of their season and recruiting players.
Men’s tennis officially began over the break and has performed impeccably. The team kicked off their season with a perfect 6-0 through Feb. 2. This stretch of victories included three wins over ranked opponents, those being No. 20 University of California, Los Angeles (4-3), No. 16 University South Carolina (4-1) and No. 10 Florida State University (4-2). This start was strong enough to see the Toreros jump up from No. 16 to No. 9 in the Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA) rankings.
Oliver Tarvet is leading the team and is currently ranked second in the nation by the ITA among all male tennis players.
Tarvet is 11-1 this season, including a perfect 6-0 during team play, only dropping two total sets during this six game stretch. In addition, Tarvet is part of the nation’s number one ranked doubles team, alongside Stian Klaassen. The team has
had a fantastic start to the season, starting 5-0 with one abandoned game, which happens when a team has already won the point or game and thus, there is not a need to continue. It hasn’t just been the players who have been busy.
USD volleyball’s coaches and administrators have been recruiting players to join the team for the next season and beyond.
The team has managed to snag a trio of recruits. From the transfer portal, USD was able to grab rising junior libero/defensive specialist Reese Bates from Butler University. Bates has played a total of 48 matches for Butler over her two seasons, accumulating 219 digs and 33 service aces.
In addition to Bates, USD announced two high school recruits, both of whom were Gatorade players of the year in their respective states, an award given by Gatorade to the athletes they feel were the best athletes in their state at their sport. The first of these players was setter/opposite side hitter Belle Grooms out of Saint Joseph Academy in Cleveland, Ohio. Last year, Grooms was able to lead St. Joseph to a Division 1 state championship appearance, while providing 706 assists and 213 kills with a .478 kill percentage. Grooms is graduating from high school this year and will be joining USD next year.
Protesters in San Diego voice their opposition to Trump’s executive orders creating stricter immigration laws.
Photo courtesy of @ajplus/X
Trump enacts stricter immigration orders
USD’s religious and cultural ties remain committed to students
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as churches and schools, which were previously protected. Additionally, an order opposed birthright citizenship — a constitutional right since the nineteenth century. These new policies emphasize Trump’s support of mass deportation, border control and stricter immigration laws.
The president reinforced his endorsement of such policies during his inaugural address.
However, these orders have not been immune from bipartisan backlash and judicial criticism. Since the executive orders were signed and enacted, six lawsuits have been filed, including a preliminary injunction which temporarily prevents action from being taken while the court is in order. Yet, until further review, Trump’s
policies remain in place and are affecting cities across the country. These orders uniquely impact sanctuary cities, like San Diego, which may refuse to cooperate with federal immigration orders.
As an institution with connections across international borders, the University of San Diego has voiced support for immigrants and international students who may be affected by these new policies. In an email sent to students, faculty and staff on Jan. 30, President Harris explained the political climate’s impact on the University.
“As a contemporary Catholic university, grounded in the liberal arts and anchored on an international border, we are closely monitoring changes to policies at the Federal level and are working with elected officials and national organizations to
understand any impacts on our community,” Harris wrote. “The situation remains fluid and may change from day-to-day, but we are committed to supporting our mission of teaching and research and will do everything we can to advocate for the funding and support that our scholars, students and families rely on.”
The email continued to provide resources for community members regarding the protocols that students and employees should follow if approached by immigration enforcement agencies. In a comment to The USD Vista, Assistant Vice President for Public Safety James Miyashiro elaborated on the protocols in place.
“If approached by an immigration officer, students should refer the officer to [the Department of Public Safety
(DPS)] for verification of any legal mandates,” Miyashiro explained. “A ‘valid legal mandate’ includes judicial warrants, court orders, or subpoenas issued by a court of law. DPS will not assist in enforcement activities without such orders to ensure compliance with legal standards and to protect the privacy and rights of students and employees.”
Furthermore, the University has stood firmly in support of the California Catholic Conference, an association of Catholic bishops, and their stance on Trump’s immigration laws. Vice President of Mission Integration, Dr. Michael Lovette-Colyer, clarified the University’s affirmation of Catholic social teachings in a statement to The USD Vista.
“As the Bishops of California stated in December, recognizing, promoting and protecting the
dignity of every human being is essential to us a Catholic university,” Lovette-Colyer stated. “At USD, we take very seriously our location on the border with Mexico and our responsibility to serve as an anchor institution, deeply rooted in our communities. We support our colleagues and neighbors, especially the most vulnerable among us, and our mission calls us to help create a more inclusive, sustainable and hopeful world.” USD community members are encouraged to seek assistance from on-campus resources, such as the Counseling Center, DPS, the International Center and University Ministry. As the political climate continues to change, Toreros remain wary of the impact on the USD community and in the United States.
Manchester residents catch a ride to class
New tram cuts down commute for students
CADEN HAYNOR ASST. NEWS EDITOR
University of San Diego (USD) Tram Services recently added the Manchester Express route, making the tram system more accessible to the 300 students living in the upper division housing area. This will significantly shorten the long, hilly walk students in Manchester Village Apartments have been forced to walk to access classes and other on campus activities.
USD junior and year long Manchester resident Danica Rauch explained the usefulness of the tram.
“The tram is really good in a time crunch and it’s really reliable, especially since Manchester is the first stop in the East Loop, so it’s usually pretty accessible.”
USD sophomore and Manchester resident Charles Jahn emphasized the importance of the new route.
“If the tram was not available, I’d be massively cooked,” Jahn said.
Manchester Village, one of the second year and upperdivision housing options at USD, is known for its disconnectedness compared to
other living areas on campus.
USD sophomore Catelin King explained the pros and cons of living in Manchester.
“I like the area around it,
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and it is nice to be around the fields and the gym which I would prefer to be around than right next to all the classrooms,” King stated. “But it is far away.”
Getting to classes and other campus events is more difficult from Manchester requiring a one mile walk up large hills on Torero Way.
Jahn explained the tram service’s busiest times of the day and whether he has ever had to wait for another tram.
Tram, Page 3
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The new Manchester Express helps ease the commute for students living in the Manchester Village Apartments.
Cristiana Vladescu/The USD Vista
Tram route helps Toreros get to campus
Travel times reduced by addition of Manchester Express
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“Definitely in the mornings, about half an hour before class, that’s when it’s most busy,” Jahn remarked. “So far, no, the tram has not been too packed, we all manage to squeeze ourselves in.”
This has made for shorter commute times and, by extension, more time for students to relax in their dorm rooms and get more work done.
Rauch recollected the tram’s busiest times of the day.
“People use the tram in the morning, especially around eight or nine, or even 10,” Rauch said.
There are five stops along the East Campus Loop which begins in Manchester Village. The tram goes from the Child Development Center in Manchester Village,
through the parking lot next to the tennis courts, onto the main road and up to the Law Circle. This is where most Manchester residents reportedly exit for their classes and where most students board the tram to return to Manchester Village. The tram then goes past the baseball field and Manchester soccer field, returning to the stop in Manchester.
This entire trip takes about 15 minutes, although the Tram Services page on the USD website stated that trams come every half an hour, meaning this can fluctuate depending on the time of day.
USD junior Kian Drees commented on the wait for the tram. “The wait for the tram is usually not that bad, but it depends if you catch it when
NEWS GAMES
it’s coming to you,” Drees said. One of the most common ways USD students check to see if they want to take the tram is by tracking it via the “Passio GO!” app. This app tracks all trams every weekday from 6:30 am to 10:30 pm. Tram stops are clearly marked on the app so that students can find the closest stop to them and see whether their tram is close enough to make riding it beneficial for their commute. This tram tracking app is available on desktop and mobile devices as well. This faster mode of transportation has allowed students living in Manchester to access frequented areas of campus more easily. This implementation will encourage more current first-year students to live in Manchester Village.
Love is a game Solve cupid’s crossword
JACKIE MARQUEZ EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Across
4. You might have one of these on the night of Valentine’s Day.
7. If you or your partner waited until the last minute, it might be impossible to get one of these.
11. Life is like a box of _____, you never know what you’re gonna get.
13. You might hate Valentine’s Day if you just went through one of these.
14. This berry is often dipped in chocolate as a romantic treat.
15. A ____ gram is a a small card with a piece of candy, usually swapped by students.
Down
1. The shortest month of the year
2. The opposite of being in a relationship
3. This day takes place on Feb. 14 every year.
5. The name of an American rock band, or something that you give your lover
6. A bouquet of these might make your day.
8. What you get if you mix red and white
9. ____ finds a way.
10. A term of endearment that you might call your significant other
11. This ancient Roman god is often portrayed as a flying baby with a bow and arrow.
12. This organ beats over 2.5 million times throughout your life.
Manchester is home to around 300 sophmore, junior and senior students.
Photo courtesy of
OPINION
In Grammys we trust The entertainment industry can save Americans during disasters
ZOE ROGERS OPINION EDITOR
Each year, the Grammys presents awards to artists regarding various categories. These include Record of the Year, Song of the Year, Best New Artist and more. The Grammys are often known for wide-ranging advocacy speeches presented by the artists during their on-stage award acceptance. Even this year, artists used their 90 second speeches to draw attention to social issues. Doechii encouraged Black girls to follow their dreams, Chappell Roan demanded a livable wage for musicians and Lady Gaga expressed her support for trans people.
This year, the Recording Academy took a similar approach in an attempt to solve societal issues. The Grammys used its platform to ask for donations for the MusiCares Fire Relief from the audience in an attempt to aid the recent tragedies of the Los Angeles fires. The Grammys’ record-breaking $24 million fundraising effort, aimed at helping the fire victims in LA, has given Americans hope that the entertainment industry will serve as a key force for disaster relief now and in the future.
The Grammys have continuously posed as a platform for advocacy efforts throughout the years. With a global audience, the Grammys are the perfect opportunity to reflect one’s beliefs and encourage others to act on them.
In 2019, Lady Gaga won Best Pop Duo or Group Performance alongside Bradley Cooper. In
her speech, Gaga discussed the importance of mental health awareness, its common appearance in celebrities and also encouraged her listeners to reach out to someone for help.
“So if you see somebody that’s hurting, don’t look away,” Gaga said. “And if you’re hurting, even though it might be hard, try to find that bravery within yourself to dive deep and go to tell somebody and take them up in your head with you.”
This year, Chappell Roan’s speech regarding healthcare for musicians sparked conversations revolving around the lack of stability within the music industry.
Roan highlighted the financial instability of the majority of artists in the industry who are not A-list celebrities, reflecting on being dropped by her record label at an early age, leaving her with no income or healthcare.
Touring, independent and freelance artists oftentimes struggle to generate a consistent flow of income that is feasible for living in our world today. Other sources of treatment such as general health care appointments, substance abuse counseling, mental health care and other forms of aid, are often impossible to achieve for underground artists.
Trevor Noah, known for his acting, comedy and political commentary, acted as this year’s television host for the Grammys. Noah reminded the audience members they were able to donate by scanning the QR code provided on the screen, that LA needed their help and any amount of donation would make a difference.
Alongside the Grammys’ efforts to provide relief to the
community of LA, celebrities, organizations and companies donated to numerous organizations. According to Forbes, an American business magazine, many celebrities took up the opportunity to better LA such as Taylor Swift, Leonardo DiCaprio, The Weeknd and more. The artists donated to several associations including MusiCares Fire Relief, Greater Los Angeles Education Foundation, Los Angeles Regional Food bank and others. The Recording Academy donated one million dollars; on top of that, Universal Music Group (UMG) cancelled
all parties and donated the money they would’ve spent on the parties to fire relief.
In 2020, the Grammys harnessed the position of a fundraiser as well. The Grammy Awards, a website run by the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences, provides information regarding the Grammys’ contribution for COVID-19 relief efforts.
“Both the Recording Academy and MusiCares have contributed an initial donation of $1 million each, totaling $2 million,” the Grammy Awards stated.
Due to the Grammys efforts in supporting its community during past tragedies, we can assume when other disasters arrive, the Grammys will provide financial support to those in need.
However, not too long ago, Hurricane Helene left catastrophic damage in North Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia, Florida and Virginia. Briticana, a website that provides access to encyclopedias and tools for universities, reported on the effects of Hurricane Helene.
“Some estimates put the economic impact of the storm, including property and infrastructure damage, as high as $200 billion, which would make Helene the costliest storm in U.S. history,” Briticanna stated.
While the Grammys provided aid for the tragedies of the Los Angeles fires, they failed to focus their attention
on other victims of natural disasters. It’s possible to say the recording academy only aided LA because the fires affected them personally, because the location of many artists and record companies are based there. The Grammys failed to continue to help citizens from disasters all over the US, leaving fans on the other side of the country in devastation.
While it’s easy to criticize the Grammys for only providing funds to the city of LA when others are suffering in the south, it’s important to realize the positive impact the Grammys fundraising efforts had on LA. The money generated from the donations of celebrities, companies and the Grammys’ audience members funded organizations such as the California Community Foundation, Direct Relief and Pasadena Community Foundation. With every dollar donated, LA is one step closer to rebuilding what it lost in the flames.
The Grammys harnessed their opportunity to grasp the world’s attention of LA’s devastation in asking their audience to donate. In doing this, the Grammys became a key factor in the relief efforts of the LA community. In a time of grief, the entertainment industry acted as a saving grace to the suffering residents of LA. Now, we can trust the Grammys will continue to provide relief during devastating times in the future.
Doechii encourages Black girls to keep dreaming.
Photo courtesy of @recordingacademy/ Instagram
The money donated from the Grammys has aided organizations in their pursuit to rebuild LA. Photo courtesy of @iafflocal1014/ Instagram
The break through in the break up
Surviving the end of a college relationship
JULIE FROMM ASST. OPINION EDITOR
Coming into my final semester as an undergraduate college student, the last thing I wanted was to go through an emotional breakup with my longterm boyfriend. Trying to figure out my plans for next year was stressful enough — going through heartbreak added another layer to that confusion and uncertainty. However, once I got back to San Diego and was finally able to vent to my friends, I quickly found out that I was not alone.
Several of my friends, who are also seniors and were in long-term relationships, were going through the same thing. As the end of college approached, they began to evaluate their romantic relationships, trying to balance making decisions about where they will be next year with the sacrifices necessary for a relationship to work. They realized that they needed to be on their own during this time.
It was a relief to see that I wasn’t alone, and I realized that, though my relationship and breakup are personal, this is not a unique experience. As mine and my friends’ senior years began to wind down and we struggled to decide what we wanted to do post-graduation, choosing ourselves was the one thing we could agree on. Senior year break ups are incredibly difficult, especially when they fall right in the midst of Valentine’s Day, but they do have some benefits.
At the beginning of this school year, I wrote an article about the stress that comes with not having
an answer to the question, “What are your post-graduation plans?”
Now, I have the answer to that question. I’m lucky to know relatively early where I will be moving at the end of this school year and to have a job secured.
The question that I dread receiving now is, “Is your boyfriend going with you?” It is difficult to imagine balancing the end of my college career with the ups and downs of a break up, creating answers to this dreaded question that are not rude but acknowledge the fact that my boyfriend and I broke up. The greatest silver lining is that it has forced me to recognize aspects of my life that I was overlooking, including my friendships, my academics and my independent future.
I have spent many nights over the last few months discussing my break up with my friends, who have so kindly listened as I went over the same issues that my ex-boyfriend and I were facing over and over again. We have laughed and cried, and they have given me advice that I cherish and hold close every day in order to get through.
What I realized in the thick of all of this was that my friend group, my support system, is the greatest relationship I could ask for in this time of my life. Knowing that I have great friends who are experiencing the same things as me, whether that is going through a break up or trying to figure out where they will be post-graduation, is very rare.
I am now able to recognize that there will be few times in my life where I am surrounded by people who completely understand
what I am going through and can support me in a way that aligns with my current situation. Although we have discussed how gut-wrenching holidays like Valentine’s Day will be, we also have Galentine’s Day dinner, graduation parties and last hurrahs to look forward to, and it is with all of these upcoming events that I have realized that my friends are the truest loves of my life.
Ending a long-term
relationship left a void in my life that has been hard to fill. My friends have been a saving grace in that regard, but keeping myself busy with school has also helped me immensely. I am able to devote more time to my academics than in the past, and have found that the more that I do that, the happier I feel. I am incredibly grateful to be able to attend college and receive an education that many people are unable to receive.
Although I believe I will return to school someday for a graduate degree, knowing that I will be leaving school for a time is often impossible to wrap my head around. I am someone who truly enjoys and values learning. Throwing myself into my education has been a rewarding distraction; even when I wake up in the morning and dread the assignments I have to turn in or the late classes I have to attend, I feel grateful to be studying subjects that I care to devote my time and thoughts toward.
The most difficult part of my life to consider is my future. This has always been the case for me, as I am someone who feels persistent anxiety about what I will do next or where I will be a year from now, hence the early decision about my post-graduation plans. Despite knowing where I would be next year before ending my relationship, there is still so much uncertainty now. A relationship,
if it is stable, can be a wonderful constant — something to rely on when things feel out of your control. In my experience, I realized that I was relying too heavily on that constant, and understood that I would not feel happy until I gained some independence over myself and my life. Ending my relationship was the hardest thing I’ve ever done, but it also showed me that I am capable of overcoming unimaginable obstacles, and that there is a great deal of joy in that. Even though I have my plans laid out, I still feel worried about the future in different ways, but I know now that I will be able to handle it and even enjoy it. Your twenties are a time to be selfish if you can be. Building your future and finding your footing in the world is stressful and often scary, but being able to do that with independence can be fulfilling along with the stress and fear. At a time in our lives when we are so young and the decisions we have to make feel beyond our years, focusing on yourself can be just what you need, even if you wish it wasn’t. I don’t feel that I am out of the woods in terms of getting through my break up, and I often question my decisions in fear of a misstep, but I do know that investing in myself and my friendships for the final semester of my college career was the greatest decision I could have made.
It’s easy to feel distressed during a breakup.
Photo courtesy of @Zhivko Minkov/ Unsplash
Letting go of someon can be one of the biggest trials during college.
Photo courtesy of @Farrinnil/Unsplash
ARTS & FEATURE
Leeva Chung: From DJ to Professor
The journey of USD’s new chair of the Communication department
ZOE ROGERS OPINION EDITOR
Leeva Chung, Ph.D., is a professor of Communication Studies at the University of San Diego and actively engages on USD’s campus. Next fall, Chung will become the head of the Communication department. However, she wasn’t always sure where her career would go.
Throughout her life, Chung has experienced struggles with her identity and finding a suitable occupation, which has led her to teach at USD. Now in San Diego, Chung is about eight hours from her hometown, Chinatown, San Francisco.
The location in northern California is prominently known for resembling Chinese architecture, food, and culture. While appreciative of her hometown, Chung plans to remain in San Diego for now.
At the age of six, Chung’s parents’ divorced. Chung points out that at her young age, she was protected by her ignorance. Sixyear old Chung’s oblivious attitude caused her to struggle to understand the abrupt change occurring in the household, including her father living in a separate location.
Living with separate parents allowed Chung to broaden her mindset and gain new perspectives on life, allowing her to learn a valuable lesson from each.
“I learned to get the good bits from mom– to be independent and not rely on a man,” she said. “And from my dad, to be good, be happy, find joy, and don’t worry about other people’s thoughts.”
Chung’s mother, Wilma Pang, has a strong presence in Chinatown’s community, running for mayor twice and even coming in third.
“She didn’t do it for politics,” Chung said. “She did it to give Chinatown a name.”
Even though Pang lacked a political platform, she repeatedly ran for the mayoral election. Chung described her as having a captivating personality.
“My mom’s a diva,” Chung explained. “Pretend your mother is Taylor Swift, and she’s fifty.”
Pang is an active community member and would spend a lot lots of her time with musicians in a nearby park, singing and playing instruments with them to tourists passing by.
“And tourists will come by and give them money – she sings as they play,” Chung said.
Chung explained she developed a carefree attitude from incorporating these lessons into her life.
She received an education at Galileo High School in San Francisco. Chung described the school as “one of the top five worst schools out of 15.”
Chung pointed out that her school experience represented a time of project living, government assistance and housing, food stamps and gangs.
“Seven percent of the school’s population was white,” she said.
“The rest were minorities. And two out of the eight hundred got a Ph.D. I’m proud of it but also ‘Oh my God,’” she explained.
Chung elaborated that most students at her public school didn’t believe they could achieve a Ph.D., so they applied for government jobs. Chung was one of the two members in her class to receive a Ph.D. and is still in contact with the other Ph.D. recipients, and both were named “most spirited” in her high school’s yearbook.
For Chung, high school was pivotal; she learned about herself and cultural identity. Growing up in a Chinese household didn’t strip Chung of her American identity, although it did cause Chung to wonder who she truly was inside despite visually appearing Chinese.
“The weekends it was like being a good Chinese daughter, visiting relatives and eating Chinese food. My dad took us to China because he didn’t want us getting Americanized. During Monday through Friday, I was as American as I could be,” she said.
As a teenager, Chung found herself deferring from traditional Chinese values, especially through her personality and appearance.
She described herself as “sassy, different but expressive, tall, not typical Chinese.”
On a whim, Chung dyed her hair with red streaks as a form of self-expression. Chung had a reputation among her family as a problematic child and frequently was given reminders from her father of where she came from and the family she represented.
“My poor father didn’t know what to do,” Chung said. “He accepted it because he had three daughters already. I was the rebellious one; he struggled, but he never gave up. It was so hard for him to see this non-traditional Chinese daughter. He wanted to find ways to get me back and find my roots.”
After high school, Chung completed her undergraduate journey in six years at San Francisco State University. She spent two and a half at University of California Fullerton for her master’s, and five and a half at the University of Oklahoma (OU) for her Ph.D.
The journey was extremely timeconsuming, but Chung benefited greatly as she was allowed to begin her teaching career. In her time in Oklahoma, Chung experienced a life that was different from her youth in Chinatown, which came as a sort of shock to her.
“I never understood life outside this liberal city. Living in Oklahoma impacted what I thought of the US – how we view race, difference, sexuality and what conservative actually implies,” Chung said.
Chung’s favorite class in college was not a typical academic course. Instead, it was singing for non-majors.
“It taught me about myself, about voice, and expression, and confidence when you don’t have it. Comparing is good, but it can
be the death of you,” she said.
Instead of learning how to become a talented singer, Chung learned a valuable lesson about maintaining self-confidence. However, the class was challenging, especially because Chung couldn’t succeed in the singing techniques.
“I would fail miserably and be really sad and upset with myself,” she described. “I wanted to sing like that. Think about how you want to represent your voice. It trickles down to the way you write and the energy you give off to other people.”
Now, at USD, Chung requires the students in her Intro to Human Communication class to sing a song’s verse acapella in front of the class. Chung encourages the students to develop independence and confidence by causing them to branch far out of their comfort zone.
Chung stresses that the activity’s significance isn’t about whether the student maintains musical talent; there is a lesson beneath the practice. This activity allows students to harness their confidence within
themselves and break away from comparison to other classmates.
Chung struggled in college to find her major and an occupation that she wanted to pursue.
“I couldn’t choose. I didn’t find a spark,” she said.
Chung was undeclared for most of her college experience until her junior year when she pursued Communication Studies. Chung applied for countless jobs and internships, some out of the ordinary, including at an ice cream parlor, Macy’s, a telephone operator, a DJ, and almost thirty others. When Chung was working as a DJ, she met with and interviewed well-known music artists like MC Hammer, Houdini, and Tupac.
“They allowed me to report the news and have my own shows for two hours a week,” she explained.
She was among the few Asians there and worked at a black-run studio, though she thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity.
In 1997, Chung found a job application for the University of San
Diego. She said the job description fit her perfectly and she immediately filled out the application.
“On December 31, I found an ad for USD. The USD deadline was Jan 1, 1998. The ad spoke to me,” Chung said.
Of 130 applicants, Chung received the job and is now an active University of San Diego member. Since then, she has been recognized for her teaching style and received numerous awards, such as the Davies Award for Teaching Excellence. Now, Chung is continuing her twentyfifth year at USD and striving to achieve her personal goals. These goals include living anxiety-free, remaining relentless on a healthy lifestyle and healthy choices and finding a side hustle occupation that sparks joy, like writing short stories. Chung continues to push herself and other community members, such as students, out of their comfort while simultaneously seeking to achieve the goals she has for her future.
Dr. Chung enthusiastically holds an 84 sign, signifying her graduating year.
Photo courtesy of Leeva Chung
Chung making a spunky face in the high school pep rally.
Photo courtesy of Leeva Chung
ARTS & CULTURE
Swipe right on romance
ALEXANDRA ALCALA ASST. A&C EDITOR
As USD gets ready to celebrate the holiday of love — Valentine’s Day — students search for new partners on dating apps. Tinder, Hinge, Bumble, Grindr, Raya and others have become the newest way to meet lovers. This has led more people toward the Internet as a way to meet their partner rather than meeting in person. According to a Pew Research study, one in five partnered adults over the age of 30 had met online.
As dating apps began to gain popularity, some wondered if it was really possible to create an intimate connection based on pictures, descriptions of someone and text messages. Yet the other side of the argument pointed out that this new era of technology had begun and could lead to people finding romantic connections that they may not have had the opportunity to come across organically. Technology has helped us with homework, work, day-today tasks, entertainment and more. With that in mind, it makes sense that people have turned to computers to help them with their romantic lives.
Dating apps are popular amongst many audiences, but especially younger people, such as college students. Research shows that 53% of users on these apps range from the ages of 18 to 29, a common age range of those who attend universities. It appears the most common apps that draw in college students are specifically Tinder, Hinge and Bumble.
“I use Hinge, and I found out about it through some friends,” USD sophomore Aileen Solis said. “I downloaded it because I was mostly bored and wanted to see who I could meet through there, but it’s just fun to be on it and I just wanted to see what I could do.”
Commonly, people seem to download dating apps out of boredom, not with the intention of developing a serious relationship. However, another common reason people may turn to these apps is simply due to curiosity.
“I have Tinder,” USD sophomore Paige Reigrut said. “I downloaded it as a way to have fun along with my friends. We never really had or have the intent to find something serious through the app, but it can be fun to swipe and chat with people. I have even come across other people that are on the app simply to chat and that’s it.”
Using the app is also
a form of entertainment. Most apps have systems and algorithms that are designed to look and feel as a videogame with the objective of capturing the user’s attention to ensure they return to the app frequently.
What people question the most is the ability of these apps to find them a long–term and stable relationship. Recent studies have shown that while the apps are popular, they seem to not have a high success rate.
“It was very hard to transfer online chats into an in person relationship,” USD senior Olivia Bassett said. “It was disappointing but not surprising to experience this trend, because I feel like people are too scared to converse outside of their digital identity.”
Another reason for a lack of success or engagement is a result of the unsafe environment that these dating apps can foster, especially for women. According to a study done by Stacy Jo Dixon, one in five women in the country have had a somewhat negative experience, over one in 10 have had very negative encounters and 32% of users have deemed the apps to be unsafe.
“I think the best way is to meet someone organically, and I feel that that is the ultimate goal for everybody,” Solis said. “I do think Hinge is an interesting way to meet people, but I don’t know if meeting someone off dating apps would guarantee a life-long partner.”
When considering creating a profile, potential users may consider factors such as the safety of the apps and if it’s worth investing time in. Although, it must be acknowledged that these apps have led to successful results in some cases. Yet, many students are still wary of using the apps when searching for a serious long-term relationship.
“I wouldn’t recommend them,” Reigrut said. “At least not for something serious. I don’t think they are the best way to find a longtime partner, but they can be fun from time to time.”
Some have speculated that the rise of users in dating apps is tightly intertwined with the recent rise in hookup culture that has grown especially among young people these last years. As the years pass, there’s the question of whether going on official dates and the courtship that used to take place are being forgotten as hookups become the new norm.
“I think dating apps are interesting, but because of our generation’s hookup
culture, I do think that that’s really what the apps are for,” Solis said. “I do believe that the advertisements that promise a committed and serious relationship from the apps are not truthful.”
Tinder was one of the first dating apps to make its rise among society and in the app store, however, there was an unexpected turn that took place as it became known that the app was not solely for dating purposes, but also for one-night hookups. This is also one of the reasons why dating apps are not taken as seriously as it was hoped by the designers. A lot of people look to date casually or simply hookup instead of joining a committed relationship.
“I do think dating apps have a correlation with hookup culture, especially if we are talking about Tinder, the original hookup tool,” Bassett said. “These apps emphasize superficial values based on appearance like height, hair color and overall subjective attractiveness.”
Regardless, there has been a rise in new apps hitting the market. Some are exclusively for those searching for a casual dating experience while others are intended for those who desire a long-term relationship.
Across the board of dating apps, there is one time of the year where, statistically, the user rate rises, and that is on February 14, also known as Valentine’s Day. Students and single people in general may look to these apps on Valentine’s day to find someone to spend the holiday with, and this could either be a one-time night out or it could end up being more.
“I can definitely see people turning to dating apps on Valentine’s Day to find comfort in their loneliness, but I would say that this is like putting a bandaid on a bullet wound,” Bassett said. “I say this because these apps just don’t really lead to long-term relationships most of the time.”
It seems USD students create profiles on dating apps as a way to pass time and have fun, sometimes with the company of friends. Dating apps have become more normal for recent generations. Some might believe dating apps will revolutionize themselves and become more successful for everyone. However, dating — whether online or offline — is always challenging. As Solis and Reigrut point out, matching with someone online as well as meeting someone organically has challenges of their own. It ultimately comes down to which ones people are more comfortable overcoming.
com/in/diego-torero-6aa19b39 San Diegan
I won’t shut up about The men’s soccer team advancing to fourth in the nation
My weekends look like
Some Toreros turn to dating apps to
Photo courtesy of Alissa Abramovich
The 67th night at the Grammys
The award show brings exciting performances and solemn tributes
SKJERSAA ARTS & CULTURE EDITOR
For some students, Sunday night is spent catching up on school work before the start of a chaotic week. However, on Feb. 2, many found themselves closing their books and instead tuning in to this year’s Grammy Awards Ceremony.
The first Grammy Awards Ceremony — originally known as The Gramophone Awards — took place in Beverly Hills in 1959 to honor and celebrate the work of those in the music industry. Beginning with just 28 categories, the award ceremony has expanded in 2025 to include 94 categories. The National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences, now known as the Recording Academy, has presented the ceremony since its establishment. Through a system of voting, this annual event draws in millions of viewers who hope to see their favorite artists win a prestigious award.
This year, the Grammys certainly had a slew of unexpected, yet somewhat tobe-expected, celebrity twists and turns. Exciting performances from Chappell Roan, Sabrina Carpenter, Doechii, Charli XCX and others have made their way to the headlines. Similarly, so have controversial moments such as appearances from Kanye West and his wife Bianca Censori
and problematic jokes from this year’s host, Trevor Noah.
“The Grammys are great but it’s giving ‘Hunger Games’ given our current climate,”
USD senior Gray Ehling said. “And I didn’t really appreciate Trevor Noah’s comment about immigrants. It was unnecessary, irrelevant, out of touch, insensitive, and I am disgusted.”
Since the show, comedian Trevor Noah has been criticized for these attempted quips by viewers and the media.
He has specifically come under scrutiny for his failure to land a joke surrounding recent immigration threats under the Trump administration.
“We’re going to be honoring the best in music as voted on by the 13,000 members of the Recording Academy and 20 million illegal immigrants,” Noah said. “And tonight, no matter what happens, history will be made.”
Despite these controversial moments, there still were many special and memorable moments throughout the night. The award ceremony paid tribute to the musicians whose lives were lost this past year. This included artists such as Quincy Jones, Liam Payne and Toby Keith, amongst many others.
However, honoring the legacy of these musicians was not the only tribute that took place. After the devastating fires
so well-known.”
that demolished many beloved sectors of the city of Los Angeles, the event provided a moment of solidarity and celebration for a community that is known for its entertainment industry across the world. The Los Angeles County firefighters who put their lives on the line to protect the city were honored on the red carpet and presented this year’s Album of the Year Award, which Beyoncé took home for the first time in her career.
“For the firefighters to be recognized was a huge thing,” USD junior Deja Blount said. “I think it was important because they risked their lives and put so much of their time into fighting the fires. Everyone knew how hard they worked, but for them to be recognized on such a big night, at the Grammys, was huge because the Grammys are
However, some students expressed that the way the fires were acknowledged at the Grammys was unfavorable. Although the night raised nearly $24 million for wildfire disaster relief throughout the weekend, USD senior Zoe Harrison shared that asking viewers for donations was ironic considering those who were present at the ceremony.
“I thought it was respectable, but it kind of just felt a little bit out of touch because they’re asking us to donate when they’re the ones with all the money,” Harrison said.
Despite these critiques, many artists left with a notable award in their hands. Beyoncé took home three awards for Album of the Year, Best Country Album and Best Country Duo/Group Performance. Kendrick Lamar won Record of the Year and Song of the Year for single, “Not Like Us.” Chappell Roan won Best New Artist, Doechii won Best Rap Album for “Alligator Bites Never Heal” and Sabrina Carpenter won Best Pop Vocal Album for “Short n’ Sweet.”
With many other favorite artists among these winners, this was an exciting year for all genres. However, some students shared that some of the winners were not what they had expected.
“I did see some highlights and what surprised me is that Beyonce’s album won over Billie Eilish’s,” Harrison said. “Billie looked so upset and I just personally feel like she should’ve won. I think people are getting more and more disinterested [in the Grammys] because of how unfair it is and it’s kind of like, ‘Why are we watching something that kind of feels rigged?’”
Although the voting system for selecting the winners has existed
since the mid-90s, it has faced some push-back in the digital age. The system that currently exists has selected Academy Members that are considered after a submission from a current member or record company. There are currently 13,000 members who all contribute to this process. Historically, this group has remained exclusive, but in recent years, the demographic of members has grown to include more women and people of color to ensure the results are more representative of their audience. Yet, some students shared that the voting process still needs work in order to reflect the more recent turn to streaming.
“I feel like [streaming numbers] should play a role in determining the winners,” Blount said. “So many people listen to music and streaming numbers are huge now. People only stream music, and apps like Apple Music and Spotify should play a part in it. Everything’s digital today.”
Regardless of this sentiment, Blount expressed that she still believes that award shows such as these are invaluable to those working hard to create music in the industry.
“I still feel like [the Grammys] are important, especially for newer artists and those that haven’t won a lot of Grammys,” Blount said. “It is kind of a signifier to artists that, ‘Okay, I made it, people listen to me, and they actually like it.’ It is more of a feel good moment than anything else.”
From glamorous outfits, surprise redcarpet appearances and exciting performances, the 2025 Grammys were a night to remember. Through all of the ups and downs, one thing can be said: the Grammys are here to stay.
ELLIE
The LA County firefighters were honored at this year’s award ceremony after fires struck the city.
Photo courtesy of @abcnews/Instagram
SPORTS
Recapping sports over break
USD athletics spends their break competing and recruiting
Along with Grooms, USD also secured the Washington State player of the year, Laura Eichert. Eichert, an outside hitter, accumulated 746 kills this year at Lake Stevens High School, doing so on a .464 killing percentage and .343 hitting percentage. She also was active on defense, accounting for 289 digs last season. Sadly for Toreros fans, Eichert does not graduate until 2026, meaning fans will have to wait until the 2026-27 season to see her wear blue and white.
This winter also marked the commencement of the Major League Soccer (MLS) draft, which saw two members of USD’s powerhouse soccer team get drafted into the professional game. Sophomore goalkeeper Donovan Parisian was taken with the No.18 selection in the first round by the New England Revolution. Parisian was the backbone of the nations fourth best defense in terms of goals against average, starting 16 of USD’s
20 games. He only surrendered .69 goals per game and recorded eight shutouts, while also being selected as the West Coast Conference Goalkeeper of the year. On Jan. 3, Parisian officially signed with the Revolution, meaning he will go from coast to coast to play with the Revs full time.
Someone who doesn’t need to travel as far is junior forward Sami Kannan, as he was drafted in the second round as pick 56 by San Diego F.C. Kannan spearheaded the Torero’s attack this season, leading the team with nine goals.
USD athletes also flexed their academic muscles over the winter break. USD revealed that during the Fall 2024 semester, student-athletes excelled in the classroom, earning a combined 3.31 GPA among all student athletes. 348 of USD’s 446 student athletes (78%) finished the semester with above a 3.00 GPA. In addition, 14 of San Diego’s 17 teams (82%) finished with an average GPA of 3.00 or higher.
Both the men’s and women’s tennis teams had the highest GPA’s, accumulating a 3.68 and 3.59 GPA respectively.
While the rest of us were relaxing, USD sports was still busy throughout the break. Through the games, training and even recruitment, USD athletics have managed to keep themselves active throughout the winter break.
Luka’s leap to LA
Dallas Mavericks trade Luka Doncic to the LA Lakers
On Feb. 1, Mavericks pointguard Luka Doncic received a shocking call. He learned the news from his former manager Nico Harrison that the Dallas Mavericks had facilitated a trade to transfer him to the Los Angeles Lakers for Anthony Davis — news that the sports world did not take lightly.
Doncic expressed his shock at the trade in an interview with ESPN.
“You can imagine how surprised I was,” Doncic said. “I had to check if it was April first. I didn’t really believe it.”
Players and fans from across the NBA were stunned to learn about the trade. 25-year-old Doncic was one of the biggest faces of the Mavericks. Generally, key franchise players do not get traded, as fans grow increasingly attached to their stars. Franchise players have revelaed a shakey sense of security after such a shocking trade.
Stephen Curry, Golden State Warriors guard, in an interview with the NBA, assured fans that peace of mind in the NBA is hard to come by.
“Especially with [Dallas] coming off the Finals, it’s a reminder that there are only a few in this league that can go to sleep with any type of confidence that you’ll still be there,” Curry said. “It’s kind of a very unique situation across the board.”
Curry was referring to the 2024 NBA Finals, where the Mavericks lost to the Celtics 10688. Despite the loss, Doncic had an amazing season, averaging
29.2 PPG (points per game), 8.8 RPG (rebounds per game) and 5.6 APG (assists per game). With a season like that, many basketball fans found the trade unbelievable.
Similar to Curry’s astonishment, first-year Kate Ellsworth described the immediate reaction from her friend group, highlighting the shock and frustration that many Maverick fans are feeling.
“The second [my friends and I] found out about the Luka trade my group chat started going crazy,” Ellsworth said. “My boyfriend said that the Mavericks were absolutely stupid for trading Luka. After all, he was their entire brand, and now he’s gone.”
At the center of the trade, Doncic is grieving the loss of a team he truly loved while also looking forward to the possibility of a new start.
“It was a big shock,” Doncic said. “[Dallas] was home, so it was really hard moments for me … [But now] I get to play in the greatest club in the world, and I’m excited for this new journey.”
The “greatest club in the world” that he is referring to is the Lakers, a team known for its great success in the NBA and over 17 championships. The team also features legendary players like LeBron James.
“It’s a dream come true, you know. I always looked up to [James],” Doncic said. “There are so many things I could learn from him.”
NBA players aren’t the only ones surprised. Some USD students, who enjoy a good NBA game, have their own opinions
about the ground-shattering trade. While the trade primarily affects the Lakers and Mavericks, fans of all different teams have strong stances. DC Ruth, a firstyear student and Golden State Warriors fan, shared his reaction.
“I was surprised that someone with that caliber and age is getting traded,” Ruth said. “He is a franchise player.”
Kean Webb, USD first-year and men’s basketball starting center, reflected on his initial uncertainty about the trade.
“My reaction to the trade, to be honest, was shocked,” Webb said. “I was definitely shocked and confused at first, but I think this is huge for the Lakers.”
While the basketball world is surprised, there is no doubt that the Doncic-James duo will be one for the books. James himself was excited, though surprised, and contacted
Doncic as soon as he found out.
“It still pretty much didn’t seem real until I saw Luka today, and I saw a clip of AD [Anthony Davis] at the Dallas shootaround,” James said after his game on Jan. 25. “That’s when it finally hit me, like, ‘Oh s***, this is real.’”
As a prominent leader and team captain of the Lakers, James is determined to make the transition as seamless and painless as possible for both his exteammate and his new point guard.
“[We can be] whatever we want it to be,” James said. “It won’t take long. I can play with anybody, and I think he can as well. So, we’ll work well together.”
Lakers fans are ecstatic about the trade, as the already successful team has gained a star point guard who will secure a strong season. Ruth is optimistic about the pairing.
“I believe that they will be a
courtesy of @slamdunk.hk/Instagram
powerful duo and possibly take over the NBA,” Ruth said. “Definitely gonna be a new look for the team.”
Webb also shares his insights on the new duo in light of the western conference’s place in the NBA.
“[The trade] makes the western conference an even bigger threat at being home advantage when it comes to the finals,” Webb said. “With a loaded western conference it will show immediately if the duo will work.”
The home advantage game that Webb referred to is the NBA championship game this Feb. 16, at the Chase Center in San Francisco.
While the trade sent shockwaves through the NBA, the anticipation surrounding Doncic’s new partnership with James continues to build. With both excitement and uncertainty surrounding the transition, all eyes will be on how this trade unfolds.
RILEY RAINS SPORTS EDITOR
USD men’ s tennis (pictured above) is currently on a 6-0 streak.
Photo courtesy of @usd_tennis/Instagram
Maverick fans carrying a casket to mourn their loss of Luka Doncic.
Photo
From Sports Recap, Page 1
Super Bowl LIX live from the SLP A look at the game from students’ perspectives SPORTS
ANTHONY SHARKEY ASST. SPORTS EDITOR
Super Bowl LIX was between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles. After becoming Champions of the AFC, the Chiefs set their sights on a record three consecutive Super Bowl wins, something that has never happened in the history of the NFL and has yet to come true. The Eagles, NFC Champions and an elite team in their own right, looked to spoil the party and add a second Super Bowl trophy to their cabinet. Philadelphia fans were confident most of the game and ultimately acquired the big win.
For many USD students, the Student Life Pavilion (SLP) was the place to be for watching Super Bowl LIX. On Sunday, Feb. 10, the SLP main cafeteria was decorated with red and green balloons, as well as party streamers along the walls. On the bottom floor, a projector screen broadcasting the big game allowed students to sit, eat and socialize with their friends.
In the Frank’s lounge, more party streamers and a
banner that read “touchdown” adorned the walls. Students in the lounge watched the Super Bowl on the big screens, either from comfortable chairs or the high seats at the tables. In the background were the taps of ping pong balls and the ricochets of the cue ball from the pool table. Some students even studied, occasionally looking up at the screen to take a peek at the game.
Student predictions for the Super Bowl suggested a close game. USD sophmore Brad Michael gave his score prediction.
“Chiefs 27, Eagles 24,” Michael stated.
Betting odds seemed to agree, with many online sources giving a slight edge to the Chiefs. Some attendants in the SLP foresaw an Eagles victory.
Alejandro Llamas, a USD worker at the SLP, said that translated from Spanish that the Chiefs were his favorite, but thought that the Eagles would win.
“The Eagles are gonna take it,” Llamas said.
The opening plays for the Eagles and the Chiefs ended
with punts, establishing the importance of the defense early on. On the Eagles’ second possession, defensive penalties from the Chiefs kept the drive alive, allowing for a big catch from Eagles wide receiver Jahan Dodson and a subsequent one yard run from Hurts to open the scoring. The following Chiefs drive ended with another punt, but on the Eagles’ next drive, Chiefs safety Bryan Cook intercepted at the two yard line.
Throughout the first half, the tides did not turn. In the second quarter, after yet another Chiefs punt and an Eagles field goal, Patrick Mahomes threw an interception to rookie cornerback Cooper DeJean who returned the ball 38 yards for a touchdown, making 17 unanswered points. Late into the second quarter, Mahomes threw another interception to Eagles linebacker Zack Baun, who made a diving catch. The Chiefs turnover set up another Eagles touchdown, this time a tiptoe run from Chiefs wide receiver AJ Brown. At halftime, the Eagles led the Chiefs 24 to 0.
The highly anticipated Super Bowl Halftime Show arrived, with rapper Kendrick Lamar performing. USD first-year Jacob Alexander didn’t have a hourse in the race, but enjoyed the football and the spectacle.
“I enjoy watching the Super Bowl each year,” Alexander said. “The halftime show is an essential part of the game… They always give us a great performance.”
Alexander also added that he hoped Kendrick Lamar would play the song “Not Like Us.” Lamar’s diss track on Drake won five Grammys earlier this month. So, it came as no surprise when the SLP cafeteria sang along to the iconic “A Minor” line. Lamar also performed songs from his new album, GNX, including “luther” with co-performer SZA.
After halftime, the game started up once more, with the Eagles looking to maintain their lead and the Chiefs looking to bounce back. Although penalties, dropped passes and interceptions cost the Chiefs some points, it was the Eagles defensive line who undoubtedly changed the game, sacking Mahomes a record six times. A poised Jalen Hurts, LIX Super Bowl MVP winner, threw a 46 yard touchdown pass to wide receiver DeVonta Smith, making
it 34 unanswered points.
Much of the talk surrounding the Chiefs has to do with Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift’s relationship, but that’s not the only reason someone might be a fan of the team.
“There’s a perspective about Chiefs fans, especially women, that are just fans of players who are dating,” USD junior Olivia Fillippi said. “They forget about the families. My parents grew up in Kansas City, so that gave me a team to root for.”
Toward the end of the game, the Chiefs rallied back with two long passes from Mahomes to wide receiver Xavier Worthy — one to get them past midfield for the first time, and another to score their first touchdown of the game. Despite the effort, the Eagles put the nail in the coffin with a strip sack by defensive tackle Milton Williams. Late into the fourth quarter, the Chiefs scored on two possessions to cut the lead to only 18 points, making the final score 40 to 22.
Although not the closest of games, Super Bowl LIX had plenty to offer. Beyond the football itself, the event brought people together. The SLP cafeteria and game room are great places for USD students to socialize, just be sure to thank the staff.
MVP and Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts hugging Eagles coach, Nick Sirianni after the win. Photo courtesy of @philadelphiaeagles/Instagram
Chief’s quarterback Patrick Mahomes pictured warming up before the game. Photo courtesy of @chiefs/Instagram