The Villanovan's 2021 Orientation Magazine

Orientation

Magazine PRESENTED BY THE VILLANOVAN

Fall Involvement Fair Save the Date:

8.27.21 4-7 P.M. Mendel Field For more information: studentinvolvement@villanova.edu

A BUSINESS MINOR A MAJOR ADVANTAGE DESIGNED E EX XCLUSI SV VE ELY FOR NON-BUSINESS STUDENTS

O N E S U M M E R . TEN W E E K S . COU N T L E S S P O S S I B I L ITI E S !

EXVLQHVV YLOODQRYD HGX VEL 2 | The Villanovan

from the

EDITORS Dear Class of 2025,

Welcome to Nova Nation. We are so glad to have you here and we are excited for all of the memories that you will make.

The staff of The Villanovan worked tirelessly to put this magazine together to help make your transition into college a little easier. We sincerely want you to succeed and hope that this magazine is able to help you to make the best of your first year here at Villanova.

You will find everything from the food you need to have in your dorm room to the dos and don’ts of attending a Villanova basketball game.

We have lists, advice, suggestions and more, but we know this only goes so far. There is no recipe for the perfect freshman year.

Our advice to you? Be yourself. Take the advice in these pages and make it your own.

You will struggle at times, but remember that every student on campus has been where you are now. So make mistakes, try something new and welcome every opportunity. Freshman year is a hard-restart from where you were senior year of high school. Take this opportunity to be your truest self.

V’s up. Go ‘Cats. Rush The Villanovan.

Cate McCusker, Jack Roberge and Maddie Burke The Villanovan Editor-in-Chief Team

EDITORS-IN-CHIEF Cate McCusker Jack Roberge ASSOCIATE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Madison Burke DIGITAL EDITOR Ariana Megerian NEWS EDITORS Sarah Sweeney Sarah Wisniewski OPINION EDITORS Tina Aron Vivi Melkonian CULTURE EDITORS A.J. Fezza Elena Rouse Julia Stanisci SPORTS EDITORS Colin Beazley Billy Vinci STAFF CONTRIBUTORS Joe Adams Molly Carrerio Bailey Quinn Kendall Hayes Andrew Kline Chris Leonard Skylar Musick Kaelin Trombly PHOTOGRAPHY EDITOR Olivia Pasquale COPY DESK EDITOR Molly Baker ADVISORS Michael Bradley Deena Smith CONTACT villanovan.eic@gmail.com

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TABLE OF

CONTENTS

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11 CAMPUS CULTURE 13 freshman year survivial guide 15 mental health at nova 22 how to have a roommate

31 ATHLETICS 32 basketball preview 37 keeping up with club sports 39 intramurals

43 STUDENT 44 the only club you need to join 62 campus culture at villanova

67 OFF CAMPUS 69 what the bleep do i wear?

73 how to ride septa (like a pro) 74 main line eats The Villanovan | 5

WELCOME TO DAY ONE YOU’RE OFFICIAL. SHOW YOUR SCHOOL SPIRIT!

GET GEARED UP!

30% OFF

ONE APPAREL, GIFT, OR SUPPLY ITEM* DayOneWelcome.com Access Code: 1349 Use this link to get your 30% off coupon, textbook information and reminders.

SCAN CODE

THE BEST PLACE FOR YOUR BOOKS. The store works directly with the faculty and school to ensure we have the right materials and quantities on day one. We’ve got you covered from orientation to graduation!

TEXTBOOK OPTIONS Rental, digital, used or new – choose the format that best suits your needs…and budget!

FREE IN-STORE PICK UP! Save time and order online, we’ll get your order ready.

Rental Books Rent & Save! You don’t want to keep the book after class is over. Rentals not only save you money, you can highlight and write in them too!

EASY RETURNS** Drop a class? No problem.

Digital Books Allows you to access your textbooks anytime, anywhere, on any device. So convenient and f requently saves you money.

Used Books Same book, better price, previously owned.

Eco-friendly - reduce, reuse and read used! *This is not a coupon. Please sign up using the web address to receive one. **Restrictions apply. See store for details.

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SELL US YOUR BOOKS!** We buy back books every day.

PRICE MATCH** We price match textbooks against most competitors.

VILLANOVA UNIVERSITY SHOP 800 E. Lancaster Avenue 610-519-4160 VillanovaBookstore.com

AUG

26 AUG

27

AUG

28 SEPT

2 SEPT

3

SEPT

4 SEPT

5

Quizzo, The Oreo Happy Friday, The Oreo Involvement Fair, Mendel Field Food Truck Friday, Campus Green

9:00 PM 12-2 PM 4:00 PM 9-11 PM

Live Entertainment, TBD

8-10 PM

Quizzo, The Oreo

9:00 PM

Happy Friday, The Oreo The Breakfast Club Showing, TBD Food Truck Friday, Campus Green Liberty State Park Trip, New York Labor Day Picnic, South Campus Surprise Entertainment, TBD

12-2 PM 8:00 PM 9-11 PM

9:00 PM 8:30 AM 1:00 PM 8:00 PM

Interested in being a part of the Campus Activities Team? Come visit our table at the Involvement Fair on 8/27 to learn about our Operations Team.

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Campus Culture

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Leaning into Orientation

New Student Orientation is a program designed to introduce both freshmen and transfer students into Villanova’s community. It provides the opportunity to interact with people in your grade, explore the ins-and-outs of campus, and learn everything Villanova has to offer.

However, Orientation at Villanova goes a bit farther than just a warm welcome. It is more than a campus tour or a detailed information session. Orientation is an exciting opportunity to form your first sense of home as a Wildcat before classes officially begin.

With that being said, take advantage of this time. It is an opportunity to let loose and form connections with those around you in a fun and relaxed setting. That may not mean much to you right now, but put this into perspective - this is the last time your entire grade will be together in one place until graduation!

Orientation land is a magical place of “get to know you” games, songs about burritos, and orientation staff members that probably remind you of your summer camp counselor. I know what you’re thinking – aren’t we a little too old for this? Sure, this may not sound like your thing, and you may be tempted to hang back from these activities. However, orientation is what you make it, and therefore, it is as fun and as meaningful as you make it. Allow yourself to

be silly and remember, it’s supposed to be awkward! I encourage you to embrace all those awkward games, chants, and moments -this is the best way to break out of your comfort zone and form truly meaningful connections with those around you. Though uncomfortable at first, orientation is something you only get once and will miss when it is gone.

Orientation is not only games and get-to-know-you activities. You will also participate in programs and presentations designed to familiarize new students with the academic and cultural life at Villanova. You will receive helpful information about campus resources, such as where things are located and how your meal plan works. (Points, swipes, NovaBucks, and a what upgrade?). It is important to remain present during these presentations, as this information will be incredibly useful to you not only during your first few weeks, but for the next four years.

Another thing that makes Villanova Orientation so special are the orientation staff members.

These individuals are current students who are given rigorous, 8-day training prior to your arrival on campus. They are not tour guides (though they give some pretty great tours if you ask them to), but your go-to resource for these four days and beyond. Your orientation counselor is there because they care about you, and they want you to

succeed. Do not be afraid to utilize this precious resource. Reach out to your orientation counselor during the four days with any concerns you may have, and do not be afraid to reach out with any questions after Orientation ends as well. It’s important to remember that the staff members have been in your shoes and have a lot of perspective to offer. Even if you are just feeling homesick, shy, or down, reach out to them – they have probably felt this way before and can help you through.

During these four days, soak up the small moments, and lean on your orientation group for support. The bonds and the memories you create will likely go beyond these four days, though you may not realize it at the time.

You may meet your best friend for the next four years, or you may just meet fifteen new friendly faces.

Either way, you will have a unique community of people to make your first days as a Wildcat feel a lot less intimidating. Take it slow and give yourself time. Don’t expect to feel at home after the first day of orientation because frankly, nobody does. Though not everyone may show it, every new student is likely wondering the same, million-dollar question “Where do I belong?”

Always remember, you belong here. Now, take a deep breath – be you, and only you - celebrate what is within, and imagine what we will become.

By Molly Carriero

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ear Freshmen Year Survival Guide

Freshman year is no easy challenge. Luckily for you, countless others have already walked the same steps you’re about to take. Maybe that’s comforting, or maybe it feels underwhelming in the grand scheme, but either way, it means that all of those at Villanova understand and remember the nervous jitters of coming to college. Also, we have all you need to know about just how to survive the highs (and lows) of freshman year.

The first thing to keep in mind is to keep nothing in mind.

It is important that you rid yourself of any preconceived notions of how your freshman year is going to turn out. Nothing ever goes as planned, especially as a freshman. When you keep yourself open to any and all opportunities, it’s easier to let the year take its natural course, rather than getting frustrated when what you visualized doesn’t exactly come to fruition.

Next, your friends could be waiting for you at any time or place. The worst thing you can do is meet a few people within the first week or two and completely shut yourself off from meeting anyone else. A great friend could be waiting for you in a class, in a club you haven’t joined yet or maybe even in the communal bathroom. And if you don’t meet your people right away, the same mindset applies. Finding your people can take time, so don’t get discouraged if you don’t meet them immediately at Orientation.

There’s no rush to finding your best friends because you have no one to catch up to. Everyone is in the same boat.

Now, let’s talk about the workload. Some of you may not be used to the intensity of the col-

By Elena Rouse

lege workload. Fear not because, it gets easier with time. However, there is something to keep in mind during your scholarly endeavors.

First, work smarter, not harder.

Admit when you’re struggling with material. Professors love when you go to office hours. Even if it is just for a little bit of time.

Professors adore students who take initiative and care about their class. Plus, a professor’s favorite pastime is talking about what they are teaching, and you need to be taught a little extra, so it’s a win-win. They will also remember

your name when it comes time to grade (which is where the “smarter” aspect of the advice comes into play). Another useful tactic is to get involved in study groups, trying out different places on campus to do work and creating a consistent study routine. All of these things can help you prevent getting burnout or working yourself to death.

Next, keep the victories close to heart. We get it, you are a go-getter, a natural born leader, and you can get an A without ever having to study. Whatever your story, whether you are the star of the show or the top of your class, you don’t need to validate yourself by showboating. The students you’re with at dinner do not need to hear about how much you’re involved in or how much money you made off of that book you wrote. Everyone has accomplish-

ments they should be proud of, but what’s best is to let those victories fuel you internally. Bragging never achieves much for anyone.

Plus, you never know what others are going through, and maybe that victory you had was a deep failure for someone else. This isn’t to say that you shouldn’t talk about your accomplishments, but rather, you should refrain from rubbing them in.

Speaking of failures, the next piece of advice is to not sweat the small stuff. Mistakes are bound to happen. You’re going to miss a class, say the wrong thing and trip over the uneven bricks on Main Campus. These things are inevitable, and with inevitability comes universality, meaning everyone makes mistakes. You aren’t the only one, and you won’t be the last. Mess ups have always been a part of life, and college life is no different. The best thing to do is metaphorically, or sometimes literally, pick yourself up, dust yourself off and keep moving forward.

The last piece of advice that will lock in a good freshman year is pretty simple: be nice. The students at Villanova tend to get this one long before coming here, but it seems potent to say. Those please and thank you’s said in the dining hall or the appreciative comment to a professor or friend will make all the difference not just in their life, but in yours as well. Kindness permeates, and so do the simple acts of starting your day with a smile and a nod to someone.

The truth is that your own survival guide might look a little bit different than mine or someone else’s, but this is because we all have our own experiences. We all have our own idea of what we want for our college years. Take this time to find your path, and when you do, walk it confidently.

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A Safe Place to Discuss Personal or Psychological Issues Counseling is Free and Confidential 20% of Freshmen Visit the Counseling Center

The University Counseling Center Schedule an appointment by Phone or in Person 610-519-4050 206 Health Services Building Villanova.edu/counselingcenter Follow us at instagram.com/vucounseling center

The Safe Zone program strives to provide a welcoming and celebratory environment for all LGBTQ+ Villanovans. The Safe Zone program provides identified safe spaces on campus to support students, faculty and staff. Safe Zone trained community members serve as important allies to LGBTQ+ community members and commit both to supporting others and learning more about gender, gender identities and sexual orientation. Safe Zone Training is offered each semester and is open to all. Safe Zone 101 is the introductory session; Safe Zone 2.0 offers topic-specific small discussion groups to cultivate knowledge and awareness about LGBTQ+ related experiences.

Check the website for a listing of trainings each semester.

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MENTAL HEALTH HEALTH MENTAL AT NOVA NOVA AT

Villanova hosts a culture of open, positive conversation around mental illness. In an effort to erase the stigma, there are many student-run organizations and initiatives focused on building this conversation and increasing awareness and resources for students.

One initiative that students can get involved in is IfYoureReadingThis Villanova. IfYoureReadingThis. org functions to close the gap between students struggling with mental health and the people that care about them by having friends and peers come forward first and share the responsibility of being vulnerable. The website hosts open letters of support from students and faculty to empower students to build or tap into their support networks by identifying the people who understand and want to listen and by erasing the barrier of stigma. Letters are accompanied with a name and a photo so that readers know mental health is a topic we should not be ashamed to speak about and should be diligent in caring for, especially in the face of limited or inaccessible mental health services.

Another initiative is the Bandana Project Villanova. The Bandana Project is a peer mental health outreach network with the goal of creating a visible network of allies for all students on campus. Everyone has times when they need someone to talk to, and too often, people feel like they are alone in their struggles. Due to the stigma surrounding mental health, many are hesitant to reach out - even to friends and family.

By taking the pledge, members of the Villanova community agree to be a listening ear for their peers. Members of Bandana Project receive a lime green bandana upon joining the group, which

Your mental health matters.

You matter.

Don’t be afraid to reach out.

is then tied onto the strap of each member’s backpack (or anywhere visible) as a symbol of their openness and availability to listen. Additionally, members are given resource cards to help their peers find outlets for further assistance if they need it.

Villanova Mental Health Advocacy and Awareness is a group on campus dedicated to advocating for a better environment on Villanova’s campus concerning the issue of mental health. It holds meetings about twice a month and participates in various fundraisers in order to further its cause (Out of the Darkness Walk for Suicide Awareness, NEDA Walk, Mental Health First Aid Training and more). The organization’s main goal is to educate the Villanova community about the important aspects of mental health and maintaining a better state of mind.

In addition to these organizations, and many more, there are a great deal of free mental health resources on or around Villanova for students to take advantage of:

COUNSELLING CENTER

The Counseling Center provides clinical services to eligible students and helps students function optimally with regard to emotional, academic, social and psychological issues.

Daytime Phone: 610-519-4050 After Hours for Students: 610-519-4070

THE WELL BEING CENTER

The Well Being Center is a therapy practice in Wayne with a counseling approach which focuses on your personal growth and happiness as we do on your mental health problems and issues. They offer therapy, support groups, self-care / yoga groups and educational workshops.

Specialities include anxiety, depression,

By Julia Stanisci OCD, stress management, supportive counseling, life enrichment and more.

Phone: (610) 314 - 7996

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS

Alcoholics Anonymous is an international fellowship of men and women who have had a drinking problem. It is nonprofessional, self-supporting, multiracial, apolitical and available almost everywhere. There are no age or education requirements. Membership is open to anyone who wants to do something about his or her drinking problem.

Villanova area meetings schedules are available at https://www.aasepia.org.

WOAR

Philadelphia Center Against Sexual Violence: WOAR provides free crisis counseling and therapy services to anyone who has experienced sexual violence.

Phone (24 hour hotline): 215-985-3333

ULIFELINE

ULifeline is an anonymous, confidential, online resource center, where college students can be comfortable searching for the information they need and want regarding emotional health. Visit http://www.ulifeline.org/ villanova/ Phone: Text “START” to 741741 or call 1-800-273-TALK (8255)

CRISIS TEXT LINE

Crisis Text Line is free, 24/7 support for those in crisis. Text 741741 from anywhere in the US to text with a trained Crisis Counselor. Crisis Text Line trains volunteers to support people in crisis. Crisis Text Line is free, confidential, and 24/7. To access, text “HOME” to 741-741 anytime and a crisis counselor will speak with you.

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Surviving (and Thriving) Your First Day

By Sarah Wisniewski of College

I’m sure many people have already told you, but congratulations for finding your way to the best university in the country.

You’ve already made a great decision, so how hard can the rest be? The first day can be intimidating, but the entire Villanova community is rooting for you. If you start with an 8:30 a.m. class, take an extra deep breath. If you were lucky to grab a later class time, take some extra time for eating breakfast and picking out an impressive first day outfit. For the rest of the day, follow these tips to survive the first step of your college career:

Take advantage of your time before the first day.

Orientation may have been long and tiring, but the resources you received can make your first day much less intimidating. Make sure to find where your classes will be held. You don’t want to be late for your first day because you went to Tolentine instead of Bartley. Read any syllabus you received early. Pack your backpack before class and make sure to have both a laptop and a physical notebook. Re-read your schedule, the best thing you can do is be prepared.

Pay attention in your classes.

Do not zone out on your first day of class.

There are so many important things to learn such as expectations from your professor, major deadlines in the semester, the style of the class and much more. To be prepared for the rest of your semester, you will need to remember the information you received on the first day. If you have any questions about the class, be sure to ask on the first day so you have no surprises later. Write down the important things and get a feel for the way the class will run.

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Relax.

You are all in this together. The first day can be scary, but you will not be doing intense work right out of the gate. You can breathe and enjoy being a college student.

Embrace this new part of your life and enjoy the day because it will be the least demanding one of the semester. Once your classes are all over, find time to watch your favorite TV show or share how your day went with friends.

Be prepared to participate.

Not every professor will fill an entire first day by reading the syllabus. Many times, you will be expected to take notes or join discussions on your first day of class. Don’t panic. Get ahead of the game and get comfortable engaging in class. Remember that it is everyone’s first day in that class, you are all on the same page. Finding your voice in class early will make the rest of the semester easier and will boost your participation grade.

Remember to eat.

This seems simple, but the nerves might make you forget to grab breakfast or lunch. Make sure you plan meals into your day of classes and bring a snack or water when you have back -to-back classes. Remember, everyone’s probably trying to get lunch between 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., so think about how much time you have until your next class. Grab a premade lunch before class if your time is limited.

Essential Snacks for Dorm-Living

By Tina Aron

An essential part of dorm-living is having a major supply of snacks at immediate disposal. The trick to crafting an expert snack collection is having a mix of both healthy and satisfying snacks to curb late-night cravings.

1. Good Points Before discussing the actual snacks that will prove to be dorm-room essentials, it is worth noting where the best places to get snacks are on Villanova’s campus. The best part about having a meal plan is the points that come with it, which can be spent at Villanova’s convenience stores. Donahue Market (more commonly known as Sparket) acts as this one-stop-shop for all things essential on South Campus. Since one point equals one dollar, points can be used to buy food and other items at most campus-owned vendors. One huge mistake that Villanova students make throughout the semester is holding off on spending their points, which unfortunately leads to an excess of points wasted at the end of the semester. A great way to make the most of your meal plan is to use these points by stocking up on snacks throughout the semester.

2. Making the Most of Your Meal Plan

In addition to points, there may be some scenarios in which a student may have leftover meals at the end of the week. At Belle Air Terrace, located in the Connelly Center,

a meal can be used on different a la carte items, such as Chobani Greek Yogurt, pita and hummus and assorted fruit. Using a meal to stock up on these snacks at the end of the week is not only financially savvy, but also a great way to collect healthy snacks.

3. Snack Hacks In the spirit of utilizing this meal plan hack, a go-to tasty snack is Greek yogurt and granola. This snack is a great alternative for classic dessert, as it is sweet but also healthy and filling. In addition to granola, another great addition to Greek yogurt is muesli, which is similar to granola but includes oats, nuts, seeds and fruits. Even adding fresh fruit to yogurt that can be found at Conn is another way to make an average snack exceed expectations. A few other snacks that are worth including in any dormroom snack stash are nut mixes, rice cakes, peanut butter and protein bars. It is necessary to have food that will provide energy and keep your body fueled and healthy. When facing both academic and social stressors that come with anyone’s first year of college, having protein in one’s diet is entirely worth it to keep everyone up and running.

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Run it back, Freshman Year: Advice for Transfers

By Jack Roberge

It’s time for some transfer specific advice. Let’s be honest: you’ve already been here before. You’ve been through one overwhelming orientation with Type-A orientation staff already. You’ve heard about how the school you chose is the best school in the entire world (and then you went to a new school that’s the best school in the entire world). The point is, you’ve heard it. Your orientation is optional for a reason. With that being said, as a transfer myself, you really should only skip the events you’re too tired to go to, or if you’re skipping with your new transfer buddies. Some of the closest friends I had, and still have to this day, I made during transfer orientation. It’s really worth going through the embarrassment again, which leads me to my next piece of advice for transfers.

Take this as your chance at a do-over. All those things you said, “I wish I had known this going into college,” you now know, and can use to your advantage. You’re effectively getting a second shot at freshman year, and you should take that as a good thing. Unfortunately, it does come with the occasional awkwardness that comes with being a freshman. You’re going to have to ask people in the hallway where your class is, you’re going to have to mumble your way through the fight song for a bit and you’re going to have to ask everyone else what ACS even means about 100 times. It’s a humbling experience to be a freshman again, but it will help your experience significantly if you’re able to treat your first year like you’re a wiser freshman, rather than a know-itall upperclassman.

My next piece of advice is not to be intimidated by the fact that many people that you meet have established friend groups. When I first came to Villanova, I was lucky enough to have known a few people, but was incredibly intimidated by meeting their friends for the first time. It was awkward for a bit, but after a month or so I got a text from one of my friend’s friends to hang out. It sounds incredibly corny, but to this day that still means a lot to me, and it will for you too. It takes a little while, but eventually you won’t just be so and so’s friend, you’ll be right in the group with everyone else. The same goes for clubs, teams or any other community you’ll be a part of at Villanova. We have a slew of fantastic groups on campus for all types of interests, and getting yourself involved with them is the single best thing you could do for yourself. You might even become the Editor-in-Chief of the illustrious student newspaper (if you’re actually reading this article, your odds are honestly pretty good).

Transferring to Villanova was the single best decision I’ve made in my life, and I sincerely hope it will be for you too. I went into my freshman year at another school excited and ready to have a great four years. That didn’t work out. I couldn’t be happier that it didn’t, though. As a rising senior, my time at Villanova is something I will never forget and could not feel more grateful for. Get ready to be a freshman again, make some friends and above all else make sure that you’re actually getting a full Villanova experience. Don’t sell yourself short by saying no because you think you’ve already been there and done that at your old school. I promise, Nova does it better.

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LIBERTY

OR GIVE ME

DEATH!

A WELCOMING SPACE IN THE HEART OF VILLANOVA’S MAIN CAMPUS FOR STUDENTS WHO WANT TO THINK AND SPEAK FREELY ABOUT POLITICS, CURRENT EVENTS, AND THE ROOTS OF AMERICAN LIBERTY.

JOIN US FOR: ● Opportunities to meet students and faculty interested in liberty

● Student trips and conferences

(This year’s conference is a 3-day trip to Gettysburg. Meals, accommodations, and transportation are included.)

● Friendly and serious discussions with other students who welcome diversity of viewpoints

● Lectures and debates with leading scholars and thinkers

● Multi-year student fellowships

● Faculty mentorships

VISIT US ON CAMPUS: 304 Old Falvey ● ONLINE: villanova.edu/villanova/artsci/ryancenter.html vuryancenter@villanova.edu OPINIONS OF MANKIND REQUIRES THAT THEY SHOULD DECLARE THE CAUSES WHICH IMPEL THEM TO THE SEPARATION. WE HOLD THESE TRUTHS TO BE SELF-

EVIDENT, THAT ALL MEN ARE CREATED EQUAL, THAT THEY ARE ENDOWED BY THEIR CREATOR WITH CERTAIN UNALIENABLE RIGHTS, THAT AMONG THESE ARE LIFE, LIBERTY AND THE PURSUIT OF HAPPINESS.

GIVE ME

ANOTHER, AND TO ASSUME AMONG THE POWERS OF THE EARTH, THE SEPARATE AND EQUAL STATION TO WHICH THE LAWS OF NATURE AND OF NATURE'S GOD ENTITLE THEM, A DECENT RESPECT TO THE

WHEN IN THE COURSE OF HUMAN EVENTS, IT BECOMES NECESSARY FOR ONE PEOPLE TO DISSOLVE THE POLITICAL BANDS WHICH HAVE CONNECTED THEM WITH

The Villanovan | 19

THE

JOIN

INCLUSION CREW to get involved in Special Olympics at Villanova!

The Villanova Special Olympics Fall Festival is the largest annual student-run Special Olympics event in the world. Campus is transformed as over 1,000 athletes, 400 coaches, and 5,000 volunteers take part. It's an event you don't want to miss!

Such a large mission can be daunting. That is why THE INCLUSION CREW needs you!

We’re a club dedicated to helping students get involved in Special Olympics at Villanova, especially during Fall Festival weekend. We'll show you the way!

When you join, you: Will explore all aspects of Fall Festival & other Special Olympics initiatives at Villanova Learn how you can represent our mission of inclusion to the greatest extent Become part of an IC CUBE, or small group, the ~cool~est new way to spread inclusion-- the best part?? the cubes are SUPER personalized to WHEN you can meet and HOW you would like to volunteer!

There is NO application to join, NO experience necessary, & ALL ages are welcome!

JOIN THE INCLUSION REVOLUTION! BE

IC

Info Sessions 8/31 & 9/2!

QUESTIONS? EMAIL inclusioncrew@villanovaspo.com

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HOW TO STAY FIT ON CAMPUS

By Elena Rouse

If you have any form of social media, there is no doubt that you have stumbled across countless health and wellness accounts. All of them seem to scream, “Look at me and how healthy I am! How skinny!

Drink this juice and use this face mask if you want to look like me.

It’s the only way!”

While staying fit is an important aspect of a healthy life and mind, for the most part, being hyper-focused on these accounts is not the way to do it. Instead, here is some practical advice on how to stay active.

Practice a regular fitness routine.

Studying, classes and extracurriculars take up a lot of students’ time each day. However, you should try to make time to do something active to get the body moving once a day. Don’t freak out, because it does not always have to be an intense workout or something that lasts over a long period of time.

The most effective way to stay fit is to diversify your workouts. Maybe one day you go on a long walk, and the next you do a strength workout.

Mixing light and difficult workouts, as well as cardio and strength, is the best way to stay fit.

Davis Center: the

main gym on campus.

There are plenty of places on and around campus to complete your daily heart rate acceleration.

The main gym on campus is located in the Davis Center. The building is right across from the health center, and the gym is located upstairs. There are also smaller gyms located in the basement of Stanford on south campus, on the first floor of Farley on West Campus, and a brand new gym in Arch Hall in the Commons, often used for crossfit training. The fitness centers also offer Pilates and even spin classes.

Join Hydration Nation.

Drink. Water. Our bodies needs water, and a lot of it, so don’t deprive yourself of that H2O. Buy yourself a reusable water bottle and keep an eye out for all the water bottle stations littered throughout campus.

Especially on those weekend mornings when you wake up just a little extra parched, water is key.

What you put into your body is important as well. While we all love a good dose of chicken tenders, French fries, and comeback sauce (a Spit specialty), eating them every night isn’t going to be the most effective for your body and mind. Like with everything, balance is everything. Luckily the dining halls here have plenty of healthy options to help you keep getting those essential food groups.

It’s important to Take breaks.

One other component of keeping a healthy lifestyle is remembering to rest. There are days when you need to take it easy, and those are important ones. Without them, you can get burnt out. Staying active should be about you trying to feel like your best self, or to release stress. It should not be a burden, or a cause of stress. Going along with rest, sleep is also extremely important. In college, it can be hard to maintain a decent sleep schedule, especially with roommates, friends and homework all demanding your time. However, the more consistent you stay with your sleep cycle, the more your body and mind will thank you. You need to sleep. Do not depend on a mere few hours of beauty rest and chugging Holy Grounds coffee.

Fitness is a personal journey.

There are many different roads to staying fit. Everyone is different, and therefore everyone’s approach to how they maintain their health varies. Just make sure that your fitness routine is the one that works best for you, helps you keep a clear and healthy mind, and is not something you compare to others.

When it comes down to it, fitness is a personal journey, and one that everyone can go on successfully.

The Villanovan | 21

How to Have a Roommate 101

By Vivi Melkonian

Starting college comes with all kinds of milestone experiences. Finding and learning to navigate living with another person is a widely-shared experience throughout the student body. We’ve all been there: trying to find someone who you seem compatible with based on a three sentence blurb on Facebook, horrendously awkward conversations in the DMs and the inescapable nerves leading up to finally meeting this mystery person you now have to share a tiny box of a room with.

Rest assured that you’ll look back at these conversations and laugh at how cringey they were, but after initial introductions are over, it’s time to actually cohabitate with this person. If you’ve never shared a room with someone before, this can be especially daunting. Regardless of your previous living situation, here are some tips and tricks for navigating life with a roommate.

1. Respect Each Other’s Space

Sharing a space with someone may be a foreign experience for you, never mind sharing a shoebox-sized room that’s barely big enough for one person. Messes can accumulate at an astonishing rate. In these situations it’s important to maintain an open line of communication with your roommate regarding cleanliness. It may be awkward to address, but there’s nothing wrong with saying, “Hey do you mind picking up a little bit?” Additionally, it’s important to communicate regarding thoughts about guests in the room. You want to do everything to make sure your room is a comfortable environment for both of you. It’s important to remember that you can only control your actions. As cheesy as it sounds, do your best to treat your roommate as you would want to be treated.

2. Don’t Underestimate the Roommate

Living Agreement

22 | The Villanovan

Toward the beginning of the year, you’ll have a meeting with your RA and your roommate to discuss your standards for living together. In this meeting you’ll basically talk about your needs for successful cohabitation. Your expectation for the level of cleanliness, for example, is something you and your roommate should have an honest discussion about before deciding to live together and again when compiling your official living agreement. These conversations may feel a little confrontational, and if you’re like me, and confrontation is not your favorite thing, they can feel really uncomfortable. However, I promise initial honesty is extremely important in ensuring a more seamless living experience for the year. These are points you can come back to with your roommate throughout the year if conflict comes up, and work to uphold in your space. Though it may seem awkward to do this with the RA, they can prove to be a very useful tool when curating these expectations. Your goal here is to set boundaries and try to make sure everyone is as comfortable as possible.

3. Balance your time in and out of your room

One of the biggest things you lose when you start sharing a room with someone is unlimited alone time. If you’re like me, and you need a good balance of social time and alone time, this is a big adjustment.

Odds are, your roommate probably feels the same way. A good solution to this is to make sure you have places on campus you enjoy being other than your room. This could mean finding a place to work other than your room. It’s beneficial to separate your relaxation space from your productivity space, and doing this also frees up some time for your roommate to have some alone time. Once again, this is something you can talk about during your Living Agreement meeting. Be honest with your roommate about the importance of time to yourself, and be conscientious of their needs for alone time. Generosity in this area goes a long way towards avoiding conflict and maintaining respect for each other.

4. Last but not least: you don’t have to be best friends

I asked my peers, who all had unique rooming experiences, what their biggest piece of advice was and this was almost everyone’s answer. You’ll hear this tip a million times throughout Orientation and from any upperclassmen, but that’s because it’s true.

There’s a lot of pressure to be super close with your roommate. They can feel like a safe person to latch on to in the beginning of school before you know anyone else, but it’s important to branch out and make friends other than each other. You could get super lucky and love your roommate and become really close to each other, but it’s not a guarantee, and that’s perfectly fine. What’s important is actively fostering a relationship founded on mutual respect. You don’t have to be best friends to do that.

Quick Tips!

- Compromise is the name of the game - Learn to let the little irks go. Don’t sweat the small stuff.

- Make sure you know each other’s general schedule.

- Don’t be passive aggressive. You’re in college now, so handle things maturely.

- Be mindful of each other’s sleep schedule, and if you have an early alarm wake up the first time. Also, try to be quiet when getting ready if your roomie is still sleeping.

- Try and find common interests like your favorite music to talk about (Taylor Swift makes for excellent common ground.)

- Take some time to pick up after yourself.

- Be honest with each other from the get go.

- You don’t have to love each other, but you do have to respect each other - If you’re having a special someone over...be conscious of how much time you’re using. Remember: it’s a shared space.

- Get a meal with each other once in a while.

- If you’re going through something bad, it may help to open up to your roommate about it so they can support you.

- I said it once, and I’ll say it again, you don’t have to be best friends.

The Villanovan | 23

Gender Equity for the Common Good The McNulty Institute is leading the conversation on gender and leadership at Villanova, building community, and supporting gender-based initiatives throughout the University.

We serve the entire Villanova community—students, faculty, alumni and staff—and engage all genders—across all disciplines and colleges.

AWARENESS AND ADVOCACY Raising awareness of the obstacles that hinder women’s leadership and promoting policy that helps gender equity flourish

RESEARCH AND SCHOLARSHIP Recognizing, supporting, and disseminating research on gender and leadership

Welcome Class of 2025!

We invite you connect with the McNulty Institute and learn about our events, leadership development opportunities, and more!

24 | The Villanovan

LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT Advancing Villanovans through rigorous academic programs and leadership training

NETWORKING AND ENABLING CONNECTIONS Facilitating connections and building support networks

@NovaWomenLead www.womensleadership.villanova.edu mcnultyinstitute@villanova.edu Find us on campus: Tolentine 203

The Villanovan | 25

Best of ‘NOVA

By Tina Aron

Best of HOLY GROUNDS

Holy Grounds is essential to the Villanova-college experience. While other colleges have the basic Starbucks and Dunkin’, we are lucky enough to have our own coffee shop that contributes to the niche Villanova experience. Here are some hacks to make the most out of Holy Grounds: Despite the name, Holy Grounds not only has exceptional coffee (try the cold brew) but also other popular iced drinks, like iced matcha lattes and iced chai lattes. Because Holy Grounds uses Peet’s coffee, it is pretty strong and will definitely give a much needed caffeine boost. However, matcha and chai lattes are great options to get a little caffeine without overdoing it. Also, unlike Starbucks, Holy Grounds never runs out of oatmilk. While the Holy Grounds at Conn is a fan-favorite, locations in Bartley or CEER can be great alternative options during the morning breakfast rush. These drinks pair well with a chocolate chip bagel or Larabar, which are also sold at Holy Grounds.

Best of ACADEMIA

What is best about the studying vibe at ‘Nova is that there are so many different studying environments available, which makes it possible for everyone to find the perfect spot for them.

Doing work outdoors in the warm months is really popular on campus but should be reserved for light work that can easily get done. The tables outside of Conn are a go-to but often turn into a social event as this is in the center of campus. On South campus, feel free to put down a picnic blanket and sit on the grass to study and invite friends.

If you are into dark-academia and need to get some intense studying done, try the Reading Room located in Falvey Library. There are tables here that are basically closed off to everyone, which allows great focus. Hot tip: go at night during the winter to achieve that dark-academia vibe.

Conn has it all, but it especially has that great hustle-and-bustle vibe that some people really enjoy while studying. Two main areas of Conn for studying are the tables inside Bell-Aire near the windows or the Cyber Lounge, which is located behind the Holy Grounds. Conn tends to fill up quickly, so be sure to grab a spot early in the day.

Best of OFF-CAMPUS Getting off campus is a fun and easy way to take a break from the stress of school during the semester.

Campus Corner, more popularly known as “CampCo,” is a classic for late-night cravings. However, the neighboring Nova Grill has great food that is also reasonably priced. Nova Grill is a Mediterranean-style restaurant with a huge menu, which is great for accommodating a lot of different people.

Grab food from Nova Grill, lay out a picnic blanket outside of the Church and enjoy the sunset.

Another great way to get off campus is by utilizing the SEPTA train that departs from West Campus. The train runs all the way to Philly but makes stops at neighboring towns along the way. One stop is in Ardmore which lets off in Suburban Square, a popular shopping area with trendy stores, great restaurants and outdoor seating. A trip to Philly using SEPTA never disappoints because of so many places to visit, such as Reading Terminal Market, the Art Museum or Rittenhouse Square.

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Serve Serve

Engage

Connect

Learn

RUIBAL

Find yourself through service and friendship

What is RUIBAL? First-year Villanova student volunteers tutor and mentor grade school students at local schools. Volunteers serve in a tight-nit group of fellow first-years and participate in reflection and bonding activities on campus throughout the semester!

WHEN DOES IT TAKE PLACE? Most groups serve once a week Mon-Fri from 3-6 pm. However, due to the ongoing changes with the pandemic, service opportunities, dates, and times are still being solidified!

Why Join RUIBAL? Empower youth to value education by serviing as a positive influence in their lives.

Better your understanding of the realities our neighbors face in Philadelphia Get off campus and form incredible relationships with peers and youth!

SPOTS ARE LIMITED, SO TO FILL BE SURE FILL OUTOUT OUROUR INTEREST FORM TODAY! Follow us on Instagram! for more more information information Email us at ruibal@villanova.edu for

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Georgia on my Mind

By Vivi Melkonian

Leaving home for the first time is difficult no matter how far you are. All of a sudden you’re living on your own and you have all kinds of newfound responsibilities. I learned the hard way that groceries don’t just magically replenish themselves (special thanks to Giant for single handedly keeping me from going hungry). When you are from far away however, the transition to college can be especially tough. Before coming to Villanova, I hadn’t been away from my home in Atlanta, Georgia for longer than the 10 days when I went to sleep-away camp, and trust me, that was pushing it. I watched most of my high school buddies stay relatively close to home and even go to school together, and I questioned whether or not I would enjoy my college experience being so far away from home and knowing now single soul at Villanova.

The four-day immersive Orientation experience right of the bat freshman year turned out to be some of the most impactful days of my life. Because of Covid, we were grouped with mostly people from their dorms. This isn’t usually the case, but regardless, Orientation is such a great way to meet people and establish initial friendships. The kids I met in Orientation turned out to be some of the best friends I’d ever had. Being immediately thrown into this group of total strangers and having to endure the ever-so-awkward icebreaker games together bonds you unlike anything else.

Being from far away, it’s especially important to find friends you can lean on. I would be lying if I said you’ll never feel homesick or miss your family, but when you do feel this way, don’t be afraid to talk about it and share some of these emotions with your friends. Your friends can easily become your family away from home. And if you play your cards right, odds are one of your more local buddies will invite you home with them for the weekend at one point or another!

As a homebody, there were of course times when I wanted nothing more than a home-cooked meal and to be sitting on the couch with my dogs. Whenever I felt this way, I tried to find something fun to do with my friends to remind myself how much I love my life on Lancaster Ave. Because of Covid this past year, we had an extended Winter Break. At first I was excited not to be eating Pit food and driving my car again, but by the end of those eight weeks at home, I wanted to be back in my room in Alumni Hall as soon as possible.

Coming to PA was a total culture shock filled with a lot of learning new lingo and how to navigate a train system, which is virtually nonexistent where I’m from. Word of advice to everyone not from far away: there is a huge difference between North and South Jersey, and the existence of Central Jersey is widely debated. Being from the south also turned out to be quite the conversation starter during the early weeks of school. Not being from the general Tri-State Area at Villanova immediately makes you a little more interesting. I got lots of questions about my accent and use of the word “y’all”, my thoughts on Sweet Tea, and once someone even asked me if I knew how to drive a tractor.

Being from far away taught me that the world is a lot bigger than my hometown. Spending time away allows me to truly cherish both my visits home and my life at Villanova. While I am extremely grateful to be a product of Southern hospitality and charm, I genuinely love and appreciate my life outside of Georgia, though it’s always on my mind.

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HISTORY OF VILLANOVA

By Jack Roberge

1842

Everyone knows Villanova was founded in 1842, but only real Wildcats know that classes didn’t actually begin until 1843.

18451865

A tumultuous time for Villanova, the school closed and opened multiple times because of anti-Catholic protests and the Civil War.

Villanova Men’s Basketball wins its first ever NCAA Championship, defeating Georgetown 66-64.

The Villanovan was officially founded and became the official record for Villanova University.

2001

Villanova named Jay Wright its Men’s Basketball head coach in 2001. He has won 73.3% of games since.

2020Present

Villanova University was one of few Universities in the country to remain on campus for the entire COVID-19 pandemic.

The St. Thomas of Villanova church began construction in 1883, and was completed in 1887.

1916

1965

Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. addresses 4000 at Villanova University about the ongoing fight for desegregation and The Civil Rights Act.

1985

18831887

2006 Villanova University names Rev. Father Peter M. Donohue, O.S.A., Ph.D. as its 32nd President.

2016-

Over three years, Villanova Men’s Basketball won two NCAA Championships. Villanova Men’s Basketball is one of the favorites to win the 2021-2022 NCAA Championship.

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Athletics

The Villanovan | 31

Basketball Preview

It’s no secret that basketball from a team marked by uncertainty is king here at Villanova. The men’s and holes in major roles to a topbasketball team is the pride and joy five team and bona fide national of the school, winning national cham- title contender.

With Gillespie and Samupionships in 1985, 2016 and 2018, as well as winning seven of eight Big els returning, the Wildcats return East titles since the reconfiguration of four of five starters, as guards Justin the conference. Under the tutelage of Moore and Caleb Daniels will be newly minted Basketball Hall of Fam- expected to start once again. Eric Dixon will be the new face in the er Jay Wright, the men’s basketball team goes into every season expecting starting lineup, as he is expected to step into a bigger role after not only to be competitive, but to compete for national championships Robinson-Earl’s departure. All but and to write itself into Villanova lore. one rotational piece will rejoin the For this year’s team, led by several vet- squad, with Bryan Antoine and eran Villanovans, it’s championship Brandon Slater shining off the bench last season and expected to or bust. do so again this year. Trey Patter Although the 2020 Men’s Basketball season technically ended son, a touted recruit who enrolled last year, will also be a factor. Cenwith defeat in the Sweet 16 to the eventual national champion Baylor ter Dhamir Cosby-Roundtree, who Bears, the season truly ended late in missed last season due to injury, is the first quarter of a matchup with also eligible to return, although it is Creighton in March, when team cap- unknown at the time of this writing tain and Cousy Award finalist Collin if Cosby-Roundtree will be healthy Gillespie collapsed with a torn MCL enough to play.

The Wildcats also added a while defending in the paint. The team went 2-3 after the injury, losing top-20 recruiting class, according a meaningless regular season finale at to 247sports.com, a ranking that Providence and getting bounced from would have been top-five nationthe Big East Tournament, for the first wide if not for Patterson’s early enrollment. Guards Jordan Longitime since 2016, by eventual tournament champ Georgetown, before no and Angelo Brizzi are joined by recovering to stave off upsets against center Nnanna Njoku to form the Winthrop and North Texas. Despite next wave of Villanova basketball.

Wright traditionally utilizes a spirited first half that produced a halftime lead against the Bears, the an eight man rotation, and with Wildcats never truly had a shot with- four of five starters and numerous bench pieces returning, it will out their leader. be difficult for any of those three

There was doubt over who non-Patterson freshmen to play a would return from the 2020-2021 big role for the Wildcats this season. squad, as Jeremiah Robinson-Earl However, Wright showed excitedeclared for the draft, and both Gillespie and fellow starter Jermaine ment when asked about the depth of his 2021-22 team, saying that he Samuels were seniors, expected to graduate and move on from the pro- was “gonna look forward” to havgram. However, on April 12th, just ing depth that he did not have to minutes after each other, both Gilles- develop. Longino has the size and game to be next in the lineage of pie and Samuels announced they great Villanova guards, and Njoku were taking advantage of another year of eligibility granted due to the will get game time as the only other COVID-19 pandemic and returning big man on the roster apart from to the Wildcats, catapulting Villanova Dixon, assuming Cosby-Roundtree 32 | The Villanovan

By Billy Vinci and Colin Beazley

is unable to play. The future is bright for the Class of 2025, but the bulk of the play time this season will likely be taken by the faces Villanova fans are familiar with.

Bits and pieces of the schedule have been released as of this writing, and there are some enthralling matchups to look forward to. The Wildcats will receive their first big test of the season when they return to Bubbleville, albeit with an audience this time, to face Tennessee and either North Carolina or Purdue at the Mohegan Sun in Connecticut. On December 12th, Wright’s men will get a shot at revenge, travelling to Waco, Texas to attempt to knock off the reigning champs Baylor in the Big East-Big 12 Battle. This will be the third straight season the Wildcats have faced the Bears, but Villanova has yet to emerge with a win. Villanova is also scheduled to face Syracuse in Madison Square Garden in the Jimmy V Classic, in a matchup of traditional Big East foes as well as a reunion of sorts, as Cole Swider faces Villanova for the first time after three seasons with the Wildcats.

Additionally, the Big 5 is expected to return in full, with Penn and the Ivy League likely playing a normal basketball season and the resumption of games against the other three Philly rivals. More information about these matchups and all games will be known closer to the season, but a number of entertaining games are promised.

In short, the Wildcats enter this season as the clear favorite to claim the Big East crown for the eighth time in nine seasons and to do significant damage in the postseason.

Expectations are high, so come out to the Finn or the Wells Fargo Center and enjoy the show.

The Wildcats have a real chance to do something special this year, so make sure you’re a part of it.

The Do’s and Don’ts of Villanova Basketball

By Billy Vinci

they’ve added football, volleyball,

After a season without soccer games and more as ways to fans at basketball games due to get extra points. To get the points, COVID-19, students and season ticket holders alike can look forward either use the location feature on your phone to confirm you are to likely returns to the Finneran there, or get a QR code scanned Pavilion and Wells Fargo Center at the gate. Both ways have been in November. The last time fans attended a Villanova home basket- used in the past.

Also, when you do win ball game was February 29, 2020 at Wells Fargo Center, a loss to Provi- a ticket for the basketball game, dence, in what would be the home make sure you actually go to finale for the Wildcats. The last time the game or transfer your ticket in time beforehand. When you fans graced the on-campus Pavilion was days earlier, February 26, attend a basketball game, you will 2020, in a win over St. John’s. That receive points the same way as means when the ‘Cats open up their you do for the additional games, season in the Finneran Pavilion this but if you don’t attend the game, November, it will be approximately you lose points, hurting your 615 days since fans last stepped into chance of future tickets. the on-campus arena.

DON’T: Enter the lottery if

For freshmen and sophoyou don’t plan on attending mores, it will be the first time they the game. attend a Villanova basketball home This goes along with the game as a student. To give the new- ending of the previous one. First, bies a bit of what to expect, here if you win a ticket and don’t atare some Do’s and Don’ts of attending Villanova basketball games. tend, it will hurt your chances of getting future tickets. Additionally, DO: Enter the game lotteries. don’t waste a spot that could go to someone else if you know you

Unlike many schools, students don’t have to pay for tickets aren’t attending. Nothing looks worse than a half full student to attend basketball games. The way to secure a ticket is through the section. lottery, which is done on the Nova DO: Follow the lead of Athletics app that will be discussed upperclassmen. during Orientation. Everyone starts This could normally say out with zero points, and the lottery is random. There is no preference follow the lead of basically anyone else, but this season, only for seniority. The way to increase your chances of getting a ticket is juniors and seniors will have been in the student section before. This to accumulate points. The more means that for the introductions, points you have, the more virtual entries you have into the lottery for chants, free throws and more, pay each game. If you’re a big fan and attention to what the upperclasswant to maximize your chances of men are doing. When they turn getting a ticket right out the gate, around during the introduction of the way to do that is to take advan- the starting lineup of the opposing team, turn around.. When tage of the extra games they put on the app for points. In the past, they stand with their arms up

during a Villanova free throw and say “Whoosh Go!” after a make, do that.

DON’T: Be quiet

Don’t just stand there and be silent. The best student sections are the loudest student sections. Yell, chant, clap; just do SOMETHING. With the sideline seating being occupied by older season ticket holders who are quiet and wearing suits instead of jerseys, the arena depends on the students for noise. Nothing looks worse than a half empty student section, and nothing sounds worse than an empty arena.

DO: Join The Nation

The Nation is a club on campus focused on athletics and basketball games. It organizes the themes for games, like white out, blue out or Christmas themed for games near the semester break.

By the way, here is a sub-DO: follow the themes and wear the correct colors. The Nation also makes and distributes shirts at a few of the games that are only available to members. The shirts usually match the color of the theme, so you’ll get a shirt and also match the theme in case you forgot before the game.

You don’t have to be a sports nerd to go to games, but if you are going to go, make sure you’re loud, and paying attention is generally a good thing. The basketball team has won three national championships in its history, two recently, and it has a real shot at number four this year.

Make sure the players hear you in the Pavilion or Wells Fargo Center.

The Villanovan | 33

Wildcat D1 Domination:

By Colin Beazley

Contrary to popular belief, Villanova is not just a one sport school. It’s common knowledge that Villanova has one of the best basketball teams around, but it isn’t the only sport on campus, and the success of many other Wildcat teams is often overshadowed and ignored because of the basketball team’s success. With that being said, here’s a helpful guide to the other teams on campus that deserve your attention, as well as a brief preview of what you can expect this season.

Football

The traditional second fiddle on campus, the Wildcats football team boasts a storied history, with four current NFL players and an NFL Hall of Famer, 1980 Alum Howie Long. The football team is the only varsity team at Villanova that does not compete as part of the Big East, which does not sponsor football, so the Wildcats compete

34 | The Villanovan

instead in the FCS Subdivision’s Colonial Athletic Association. Villanova won the 2009 FCS National Championship in football, defeating Montana 23-21 to claim its first, and so far only, national championship.

The Wildcats entered the 2021 season ranked #5 in the country, but finished with a disappointing 2-2 record in the shortened season after an upset loss to Rhode Island and a defeat at home against rivals Delaware. Many contributors this past season have decisions to make whether to return for super senior seasons due to an extra year of COVID eligibility or not, but the team will look forward to a traditional eleven-game season in the fall. Games to look forward to include the CAA opener at home against Richmond September 18th, a trip to face FBS powerhouse Penn State on September 25th, and the final game of the season, a rematch at Delaware in the 37th meeting of the Battle of the Blue on November 20th before, hopefully, a playoff run.

Softball

The softball team is a program on the rise. Led by senior pitcher/first baseman Paige Rauch, the Wildcats won their first ever Big East title in 2021, which punched their ticket to the first ever NCAA Regional in program history. Rauch was the star of the show, becoming the first player ever to win both Big East Pitcher of the Year and Big East Player of the Year in the same season, batting .417 and sporting a 1.97 ERA.

After winning their first Big East title, the team is brimming with confidence. Rauch will return for another year, hoping to continue and, if possible, improve on her historic 2021 season. Senior catcher Ryan Henry led the team in home runs last season, with 13, and will continue to guide the pitching staff from behind the plate. The top six leaders in batting average will

return as well, as the majority of contributors to last season’s team were not seniors. Entering a season as defending champs brings a new set of expectations and pressure for the team, but with Rauch and most others returning, the Spring 2022 season could be even better than a historic 2021.

Women’s Swim and Dive

The women’s swim and dive team has the longest streak of consecutive Big East titles at Villanova, winning their eighth straight in 2021. Rising senior Kelly Montesi won Big East Most Outstanding Woman Swimmer for the second time in her career, winning three individual titles and swimming legs of three champion relays for the Wildcats. Milly Routledge, who was a senior last season, defended titles in both the 100 and 200 freestyle, and was part of four champion relay teams as well at the Big East Championships.

For the 2021-2022 season, the goal is to continue the streak with a ninth straight championship.

Montesi will look to win a third

Not Just a Basketball School

Most Outstanding Woman Swimmer award in her senior season, while sophomore Audrey Pastorek and junior Danielle Scarano have eyes on defending conference titles in the 200 yard backstroke and the one-meter diving competition, respectively. Senior Abbey Berloco was also in the winning 200, 400 and 800 yard freestyle relays, a crucial part of the championship side.

Head Coach Rick Simpson and his staff were voted the Big East Women’s Coaching Staff of the Year in 2021, and his program will search to keep a tight grip on their conference throne.

Cross Country / Track and Field

Combining four programs into one preview is necessary to describe the dominance of all four Wildcat running programs, as Men’s and Women’s Track and Men’s and Women’s Cross Country are all excellent Villanova programs. The cross country programs started their seasons first, with the Big East Championships taking place in March 2021, and both

Villanova teams achieved great success. On the men’s side, redshirt sophomore Haftu Strintzos won the individual title on the 8000 meter course with a blazing time of 23:05.2, and junior Josh Phillips finished in seventh, leading the Wildcats to a third place finish in the conference, just two points off of second. The men also qualified for the NCAA Championships, finishing in 20th place, as Strintzos and Phillips crossed the finish line side by side in 66th and 67th place nationally.

The women’s cross country program is the most successful program at Villanova, bar none, as the winningest cross country program in the nation. The team has won a record nine national titles, with six straight from 1989 to 1994, and most recently with back-toback titles in 2009 and 2010. In 2021, junior Lydia Olivere finished in third place in the Big East and earned All-Big East honors alongside sophomore Anna Helwigh, who finished in 20th. Olivere also qualified for the NCAA Championships as an individual, where she placed 91st amongst the best cross country runners in the nation.

In 2021, the Women’s track and field program won their third straight Big East title, while the men finished in third. Senior Casey Comber and Strintzos qualified for the NCAA Championships in the 1500 and the 10K for the men, respectively, while senior McKenna Keegan and junior Sanaä Barnes qualified for the women in the 800 meters and the high jump. Keegan and Barnes both qualified in their events for the U.S. Olympic Trials, joining Olivere, who qualified in the 3000 meter steeplechase, and freshman Sean Dolan, who was the Big East champion in the 800 meters.

Comber also qualified for the 1500 meter Olympic trial. Across the pond, junior Charlie O’Donovan competed with incoming freshman Sean Donoghue at the Ireland

National Athletics Championship in the 1500 meter, both qualifying for the final, where O’Donovan finished in fifth overall. Although no current Wildcats will be competing in the Tokyo Olympics, alum Patrick Tiernan represented Australia in the 5000 meter and the 10K races, while Siofra Cleirigh Buttner ran the 800 meters for Ireland, showing the elite quality of the Villanova running programs.

Honorable Mentions

Not every successful Villanova team could be included here due to space constraints, but honorable mentions go to baseball, men’s lacrosse, water polo, and rowing.

Don’t be afraid to cheer on some of the lesser known teams here at Villanova! Just because these teams don’t get the headlines and support of the Wildcat basketball teams doesn’t mean that they’re not elite, so come out and support the other great sports the university offers.

All photos courtesy of Villanova Athletics

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Keeping Up with Club Sports

By Billy Vinci

Villanova’s Club Baseball team.

Courtesy of Villanova Athletics

For those students who were athletes in high school and either weren’t good enough for the Division I level or just wanted to focus more on academics in college, club sports are a good way to get a taste of more intense competition than intramurals but not have as strong commitments as varsity Division I athletes.

Club sports compete against other colleges club sports in various tournaments or individual matchups, giving students the opportunity to compete and be active while also meeting new people. Club sports didn’t happen during the 2020-21 school year, due to COVID-19, but they are expected to return this school year.

Villanova offers a bevy of club sports, approximately 30 in total.

These include baseball, basketball, lacrosse, ultimate frisbee and more, so there’s a chance for students on both the men’s and women’s sides to continue to play their high school sports, or even try out new ones they’ve been interested in. For a full list of the club sports offered at Villanova, visit the club sports section on villanova.com.

Per the club sports website, “The Club Sports Program at Villanova University is committed to providing the university community opportunities for participation in a wide variety of athletic and recreational activities. Our club teams aim to enhance the overall university experience through the creation of an environment where students unite in diverse groups to achieve common

goals and objectives. The philosophy of the Club Sports Program is to support the best elements of competition, instruction and recreation by providing the opportunity for all students to participate and excel in a team setting through the development of the total individual: intellectually, emotionally, spiritually, culturally, socially and physically. It is easy to get involved in club sports.

You can either stop by our office on the 3rd floor of the Davis Center for Athletics and Fitness, call or email for more information.”

In addition to the club sports section of the Villanova website, many of the teams have their own websites or social media pages, which one can visit to learn more about each particular team and how to get involved. Also, most of the teams will be represented at the annual club fair that will occur a week or two into the school year.

Visit the tables at the fair to sign up for emails, learn when tryouts are and learn more about the team in general.

Various club sports have had successful runs in the past few years and experience successful seasons on a yearly basis. For example, club baseball competes in the National Club Baseball Association at the Division II level and is ranked on a regular basis.

The women’s club soccer team practices twice a week and generally plays one to two games a week from September through

mid-November. The league the team plays in consists of nine teams within the Pennsylvania and New Jersey area. It also competes in a regional tournament, as well as the NIRSA National Club Soccer Tournament.

There are also club teams for lesser known sports, such as Equestrian, Taekwondo and men’s and women’s ultimate frisbee. Both ultimate frisbee teams specify that members don’t need prior playing experience. In fact, most members of the team did not have prior experience. The men’s team participates in the USA Ultimate Division I regular season and Championship Series. It practices three to five times a week, competes in three to five tournaments a semester and has even a developmental team for newbies who need to shore up their skills. It is also coached by two Villanova alumni.

The women’s team practices twice a week on campus and competes in one to three regional tournaments a semester.

The men’s club basketball team is structured like an AAU team and is comprised mostly of players who have past high school and AAU basketball experience.

After the previous school year that didn’t include club sports, many club sports will have plenty of spots for new students. Take advantage of this and sign up for a club sport you’re interested in at the involvement fair.

The Villanovan | 37

38 | The Villanovan

VILLANOVA INTRAMURALS

By Cate McCusker

2018 Coed Flag Football Champions.

Courtesy of Villanova Intramurals

Intramural sports are an important part of the college experience. Whether you want to relive your high school basketball glory days, or you just haven’t played a game of kickball since elementary school, Intramurals offer a variety of opportunities for everyone.

Last year, the Intramurals Department had to get creative in order to allow students to play socially distant games. With frisbee golf, bocce, and even Kan Jam, students were still able to participate and compete against each other.

Thankfully, with the ease in restrictions, Intramurals will most likely be completely back to normal this year.

In the fall, Intramurals offers flag football, soccer, volleyball, sand volleyball and dodgeball.

Additionally, Intramurals will likely be reintroducing some of last year’s new offerings, such as frisbee golf and some yard games. In the spring, students will be able to play handball, basketball, softball, indoor soccer, tennis, ultimate frisbee and kickball.

Creating an intramural team is very simple. When they have found a stacked roster and have compiled their team’s waivers, students can register their team with the Intramural Department, usually on the third floor of the Davis Center. There is a small down payment required to register a team, but if the team does not forfeit any games then it receives its money back.

Teams can also pick the best days and times that work for them when

they register, in order to ensure they do not have to forfeit and lose their money.

Most sports consist of a regular season with playoffs at the end of the season. Even if your team is absolutely terrible, you can still play a few regular season games with your friends. Those who are successful and are able to win the championship receive not only bragging rights, but also a stylish “Intramural Champion” t-shirt to show off around campus.

The champions of flag football, volleyball, basketball and softball are then able to move on and compete at the Philadelphia CITY 6 Extramural Classic. This is a tournament of the intramural champions of six colleges in the area, Villanova University, Drexel University, LaSalle University, Saint Joseph’s University, Temple University and the University of Pennsylvania. These games are played at different facilities among these schools, including the Palestra and Saint Joseph’s Alumni Hall.

If you’ve never played basketball in your life but you want to play intramurals, you still can.

Some sports offer divisions, so you can choose the best fit for you. If you want to be a hardo and go all out with plays, matching jerseys and even your friend in a suit as the coach, I would suggest Division A. But if you’re just looking to mess around with your friends and make fun of yourself, a lower division is perfectly fine. Additionally, usually

coed teams are lower stakes than the all-male or all-female teams.

Who can play intramurals?

Literally anyone. Even graduate students are allowed to play. Sometimes clubs create teams, or learning communities, or dorms, or just groups of friends. Even if no one wants to play sand volleyball with you, you can still sign up as a free agent and be placed on a team.

The best part about intramurals is that if you absolutely love it, you can join it! Students are able to apply to be refereees, so they can be a part of Villanova Intramurals while making money. Intramural referees also usually have a team for each sport, so you have the chance to join some of the best teams in the league. Speaking from experience, joining the Intramural Department as a referee was one of the best decisions I made my freshman year.

So start training, gather some friends and compete to be an Intramural Champion.

The 2021 Coed Softball Championship Team of Intramural Referees.

Courtesy of Katie Canning

The Villanovan | 39

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DINING

You’ll spend a lot of time with us!

SERVICES

Visit our Website • Dining Hall Menus • Hours of Opera�on • Nutri�on Resources

• Meal Plan Informa�on • Dining Loca�ons • Upcoming Special Events

Connect with us @VillanovaDining

http://www.villanova.edu/villanova/services/dining.html How would you like to pay? learn our Meal Plan Jargon Meal Plans Designed with a set number of meals each week for your individual use. Guest Meals and Food Points are also part of your meal plan and are added on your WILDCARD to use for yourself or friends. All features are designed to give you great flexibility and value to dine throughout the day on campus from 7:00am until 1:30am on weekdays and 8:00am until 1:30am on weekends.

Dining in the residence dining halls gives you the greatest value and menu variety at each meal.

Meal Plan Balances The meal plan you selected is loaded onto your WILDCARD and contains the number of meals per week noted in your chosen plan. Meal balance resets Monday at 3:00am each week. If you selected a block plan (100 Block) the number of meals are set for the entire semester. Your Guest Meals and Food Points are also loaded onto your WILDCARD and have a set balance for the entire semester. You can use up to 2 swipes per meal period, whether it be as a meal swipe or an MPE. Meal Plan Express (MPEs) MPEs are a built-in convenience on your meal plan and allow you to use your meal plan balance to purchase “To Go” foods and beverages in our retail operations*. When you swipe your MPE for payment, a meal is deducted from your meal plan balance. MPE value varies by location. Any balance remaining can be paid using Food Points, Nova Bucks, or credit card. For example, use your meal plan in the Belle Air Terrace to purchase lunch, where the MPE value is $8.25. If your meal totals $8.50, you will use one MPE swipe and can then pay the remaining $0.25 with Food Points. See our website under “Student Plans” -- “Meal Plan Components” for specific MPE rates, location participation, and times.

Food Points Food Points are part of the meal plan you selected and are loaded on your WILDCARD. Spend Food Points like cash in any dining location on campus. Most students use their Food Points in our three convenience stores to purchase items like toiletries, snacks, laundry detergent, cereal, and beverages. Others add onto their MPE purchases to purchase even more items in our retail operations.

Nova Bucks NOVA BUCKS is a debit account on your WILDCARD which is separate from your meal plan. You can deposit money into your NOVA BUCKS account and use NOVA BUCKS on campus in all dining locations and at participating off-campus locations. Dining Services does not accept cash in our locations. For those without a meal plan, all dining locations accept NOVA BUCKS and credit card. *Retail Loca�ons include: Donahue Market, 2nd Storey Market, Belle Air Terrace, The Exchange, Cafe Nova, The Law School Cafe, and Holy Grounds loca�ons

Food Allergies and Special Dietary Needs Villanova Dining Services understands that special dietary needs can be difficult to manage, especially in a new dining environment.

We are committed to serving guests with special needs, whether you are lactose intolerant, have diabetes, or if you have a food allergy. Our Nutritionist and our Registered Dietitian are available to our guests. We gladly work one-on-one with students to provide you with information to make it easy for you to navigate our dining facilities. We urge you to speak to a Chef or Manager, in addition to reviewing labels, if you have any questions about certain products or recipes. To request an appointment regarding special dietary needs, please contact us at diningservices@villanova.edu.

Connect with us about your special dietary need: h�p://www1.villanova.edu/villanova/services/dining/nutri�on/specialneeds.html

40 | The Villanovan

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DINING SERVICES

Villanova Dining Services

Second Storey Market offers a wide variety of convenience store items, as well as hot foods, salads, and a full deli.

The late evening menu is offered daily and a Meal Plan Express can be used on all prepared foods.

The Law School Cafe is the best stop for a hungry Law student. Hot entree specials are offered daily as well as grill specialties and grab & go salads or sandwiches.

Legal Grounds coffee shop can also be found at this location.

St. Mary’s Dining Hall can be found at this location.

Belle Air Terrace offers plenty of quick meal options.

Stop by for the best Meal Plan Express (MPE) option on campus. A late evening menu is offered daily.

The Curley Exchange has the best menu options for all business students and day traders. Try one of our assorted Wall Street themed sandwiches or pick up the daily hot entree.

Connelly Convenience Store and a Holy Grounds are located in the Connelly Center.

Meal Plan Express only accepted at the Exchange with the Meal Plan upgrade.

Dining Hall

Grab some food from Dougherty Dining Hall. With multiple stations to choose from, Dougherty is open for a bite until 8pm daily.

Visit Cafe Nova for a quick, queue-through experience.

Choose from flatbread pizza, burrito bowls, deli sandwiches or try the famous Chicken Parm Sandwich.

@VillanovaDining

Visit any of our Holy Grounds locations for a fresh-made cold brew, a quick coffee or tea, or a bagel or muffin to-go.

Located @ Falvey, Connelly Center, Bartley Hall, CEER, The Commons, and Driscoll Hall.

Donahue Court features your choice of various food court style stations. Stop by daily to enjoy breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Donahue Market offers snacks and drinks as well as an assortment of convenience items. Late evening bites are available daily.

http://www.villanova.edu/villanova/services/dining.html The Villanovan | 41

42 | The Villanovan

Student Clubs

The Villanovan | 43

The Only Club You Need to Join

If you’re reading this magazine, chances are student pretty good that you care at least a little about stujournalism, so why club on camdent journalism, so not whyjoin notthe joincoolest the coolest club on pus? campus?

The Villanovan is Villanova’s one and only student run newspaper, and consists of four sections: News, Opinion, Culture and Sports.

Regardless of which section you join, The Villanovan’s mission is to give students an opportunity to publish stories they are passionate about, and to give students the opportunity to have their voices heard across campus.

The News section is your opportunity to get invested and report on Villanova drama and the current events that affect our lives as students.

News writers have plenty of options for what they can cover. Last year, articles about the COVID-19 pandemic took center stage, but that didn’t stop writers from covering the 2020 election, Villanova’s efforts to improve diversity and inclusion on campus and even the infamous ship that got stuck in the Suez Canal. Your options are almost unlimited. Joining the News section is a great way to get started on your path to becoming a journalist.

The Opinion section is where student voices really shine. Were you disappointed with Villanova’s response to COVID? Did you love an event so much you think it should become a tradition? Were you disgusted by a story you read in the news this morning? If you answered yes to any of these questions, the Opinion section is for you. If you have enough thoughts on almost anything to write an article, The Villanovan Opinion section is your creative (or cathartic) outlet.

The Culture section is your go-to for all things student life. Whether it’s a new club on campus, a student run business, an up-and-coming Villanova 44 | The Villanovan

By Jack Roberge

musician or a review of a local restaurant, the culture section is your one stop shop for letting the world know what the inside scoop is with the student body.

The culture section also allows students to practice their review skills for a number of events that are significant to our overall culture, such as new albums, movies or any other piece of pop culture you’re interested in.

Contrary to what you may believe, Villanova has more than just one sport. The Sports section covers all things Villanova sports, from our legendary D1 Basketball teams, to club sports and all the way down to the Katharine Hall vs. St. Monica’s Hall snowball fight that occurred during a snow day last year. Katharine Hall won that battle, by the way, so the pressure is on for this coming winter. Regardless, whatever sport you’re interested in, you’ll be able to find a beat covering any of the sports Villanova has to offer.

The Villanovan produces 13 editions of our newspaper every semester, as well as two magazines: the one you are currently reading, and our Basketball Preview magazine. To write for The Villanovan, all you have to do is apply and then get writing. There is no limit on how many or how few articles you write every semester. If you want to write a weekly column, you’ll find a place in our paper, and if you have something to say once a semester that’s fine too. The Villanovan is what you make of it, and we look forward to hearing what you have to say.

Needless to say I am biased, but The Villanovan is genuinely up there with the best clubs at Villanova. Getting to write about things I’m passionate about has been a blessing, and I hope that when you join The Villanovan it will be for you, too. Get out there, get writing and above all else, make sure you #RushTheVillanovan.

ACTIVISM AT VILLANOVA

By Sarah Wisniewski

Do you want to get involved on campus and make a difference? Wildcats across campus have taken a stand and joined their voices to represent minorities.

One of the clubs on campus is known as the Thirteen Percent Club which consists of Black student-athletes working together to create a safe space for athletes of color on campus. The thirteen percent represents the percentage of Black student athletes at the University. In August 2020, the group of students posted a one-minute video sharing their perspective of being a Black student athlete at a predominantly white institution.

“Our athleticism does not hide our Blackness,” said one student in the video. “This is our problem too.”

The student group also shared the stories of victims of police brutality including Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor and George Floyd. The students wanted the University and the community to understand that these victims are more than just a movement and represent the struggles of people of color on a daily basis. The group works to educate other students and also stand up for those apart of the thirteen percent.

Another student group working to promote understanding and acceptance for students of color is the Black Student Union, also known as BSU. On the union’s VU groups webpage it states that the members “desire to maintain academic responsibility, cultural awareness, and students’ rights.” They also pledge to “cultivate and maintain a unified, strong, and educated Black community at Villanova,” and recognize that “it is not [their] responsibility to educate others on our culture, we will welcome all people to spaces designed specifically for cultural appreciaCourtesy of BSU Villanova tion.”

BSU works to achieve these goals in a variety of ways. The student group hosts Town Hall Meetings in order to hear the voices of students directly. The meetings also create a safe space for current and past students to speak among one another about worldly events, such as tragic events of police brutality.

In August of 2020, the student group also wrote a letter addressed to University President Rev. Peter M. Donohue, O.S.A., Ph.D. and the administration on behalf of the Black Community at Villanova. The letter began by stating, “Even though we love Villanova, we cannot remain stagnant in our fight for support and anti-racist initiatives.” The group explained the need to build a committee of students, independent of clubs and organizations, to work towards reform. Later the letter read, “In order to structure and promote effective methods of reporting racial discrimination, increasing both the quality and quantity of faculty/staff readily available to assist in reporting efforts must be first priority.” The letter included support for the LGBTQIA+ community alongside students of color. The group called for a better system of reporting racial discrimination, a policy to defund the Villanova Police Department, create a diversity building for students to feel welcomed, add a diversity requirement for all students and increase diversity training for faculty and staff.

BSU has also conducted protests on campus to further awareness and reach all students and staff on campus. In the Fall of 2020, the group held a protest to honor victims of police brutality and show solidarity among allies of the Black Lives Matter movement. Students of all backgrounds marched through campus and held up posters showing their support.

The Pan-Asian Business society also known as ASCEND has also been active in showing support for the Asian American community. When a shooting took place on March 17, 2021, taking the lives of eight Asian Americans, the society became vocal about the “Stop Asian Hate” movement and decided to paint a large mural in Bartley Hall. The mural depicted an Asian American woman and included a website with further resources.

The society also encouraged students to get involved to raise funds to several organizations that support the Asian American community. They held a sticker sale and continued sharing resources to donate on their Instagram. The society also allows students to share their perspective and voice concerns.

Overall, Villanova does have opportunities for students to become involved in activism, but there is so much more to be done. We encourage all students to “Ignite Change” and to continue to build a welcoming community for everyone.

The Villanovan | 45

OFFICE OF VETERANS AND MILITARY SERVICE MEMBERS

STRENGTHENING THE LIVES OF VETERANS, MILITARY PERSONNEL, THEIR FAMILIES AND OUR COMMUNITY

veterans.villanova.edu Michael Brown Army Veteran Director, Office of Veterans and Military Service Members Prince Family Veterans Resource Center - Vasey Hall

46 | The Villanovan

Amy Rockwell Veteran and Military Enrollment Services Coordinator School Certifying Official Kennedy Hall 205

A V O N VILLA

BLUE(ouKEY KEY BLUE rtourguides)

By Julia Stanisci

The Blue Key Society is Villanova’s organization of University tour guides. Members give weekly tours to prospective students and their families. This involves following a route around campus and discussing key features, sharing their own stories and answering any questions students and parents may have. Members also help organize the open houses and Candidates’ Days that the University hosts each year. The club’s members are passionate about Villanova and want to share their home with prospective students, as the student-led tour is a vital first impression for prospective students.

Blue Key President, senior Austin Glass, explained how he has benefited from being a part of the organization during his time at Villanova:

“I love Blue Key because I see it as a way to make a meaningful and lasting impact on the Villanova community,” Glass said. “The college search is a stressful time with a lot of unknowns, so I have appreciated helping prospective students feel excited about what college has to offer. I have also learned so much about the University through Blue Key that has made me a more active and engaged member of the community.”

Glass also explained what makes a tour valuable.

“The most important part of any Blue Key tour is authenticity,” he said. “While information

about buildings, programs and other things is obviously part of each campus visit, we definitely encourage each guide to make their tour their own by discussing their personal experiences and anecdotes. Each student looks for different things in colleges, so we strive to give visitors an authentic look into life at Villanova, so that hopefully that student can end up somewhere where they will thrive and be happy.”

All members of Blue Key are organized into 13 “fams,” which are denoted by number, each assigned a certain color (or pattern).

Each fam has a leader (head) and around 25 members. Each year, 5-10 new members are added into each fam. Throughout the year, fams compete with one another to earn points, which can be gained through attending events, showing Blue Key spirit, fam bonding and more. The fam with the highest total points at the end of each year wins a prize.

The “fam” structure of Blue Key promotes a great deal of member bonding and is an amazing way to meet new people of all ages and form close relationships with them. It also gives you tons to do on campus during the week and on the weekends, as membership bonding events include fam competitions, fam dinners, yard games, movie nights and so much more.

Within Blue Key, there are many opportunities for leadership.

The organization is headed by a

robust executive board including the positions of President, Tour Coordinator, Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Coordinator, Events Coordinator, Membership Coordinator, Secretary and Treasurer, and more.

Blue Key recruitment occurs during the fall semester only, so be on the lookout for information about the application process within your first few weeks on campus.

Most applicants are first and second year students, but all ages are able to apply. The process usually entails a written application form as well as a series of interviews conducted by Blue Key Recruitment Committee members.

The Villanovan | 47

@letsvotenova villanova.edu/letsvotenova

sga@villanova.edu

VILLANOVA STUDY ABROAD

GETTING STARTED STEP

#1

STEP

#2

STEP

#3

STEP

#4

SCAN TO VISIT OUR WEBSITE AND LEARN MORE

48 | The Villanovan

CAT: Campus Activities Team

By A.J. Fezza

The Campus Activities Team, or CAT, is a student-run, on-campus organization that plans events for students. From the very beginning of your time at Villanova, during Orientation Weekend, you will likely find yourself at CAT events. Every week, the entire student body receives an email from CAT listing the activities that the club has in store. CAT always runs a wide variety of events so that all students can partake in the fun.

The first major CAT event that students encounter during their time at Villanova is CATchella.

“CATchella is the first-year students’ introduction to Villanova’s campus and their fellow classmates,” CAT Chair of Special Events Julia Herrman said. “We plan on creating a neon festival atmosphere with lots of food, outdoor activities, and a live DJ so that the students have the opportunity to let loose and make some new friends before the beginning of orientation and the fall semester.”

As the school year progresses and you need something to do on a weekend night, CAT has you covered. CAT holds movie nights almost every weekend. During the college basketball season, CAT also holds watch parties whenever the Villanova Wildcats play.

One of the most beloved and well-known activities run by CAT is NovaQuizzo, Villanova University’s official trivia night.

Every Thursday at either Cafe Nova or the Oreo, students gather to compete in a weekly, three-round trivia competition. Teams consist of

Courtesy of CAT

up to four people, and the winning team receives cool prizes like snacks, apparel, and devices. Each week brings a different trivia topic. Over this past year, topics ranged from Harry Potter to football history to Disney trivia.

CAT also co-chairs many events with smaller clubs. Some of these events include stand-up comedy and improv comedy nights with Villanova University Ridiculum, the film festival The Villys with Villanova Television, and Silent Disco dance parties with NOVAdance.

CAT even gives Villanova students the opportunity to have off-campus fun. CAT offers free student trips to get students familiar with the Greater Philadelphia area and beyond. Some fan favorites have been holiday trips to Longwood Gardens, New York City and the Jersey Shore. CAT has even arranged trips as far as Boston in the past. Some confirmed trips for the 2021-2022 year include trips to Philadelphia Phillies games, Jersey City, the Philadelphia Zoo and New York City for Christmas time.

Holidays are CAT’s time to shine. On the week of Halloween, CAT presents a concert of Villanova’s best entertainment groups, sets up a pumpkin patch, shows scary movies and more. In December, CAT holds a Merry Christmas Villanova week, with gingerbread decorating, a holiday bazaar and a Christmas tree lighting ceremony.

On the week of St. Patrick’s Day, CAT holds cookie decorating, a show by the Irish dance team and a senior Pub Series.

CAT is always working with the University to come up with new ways to engage the student body.

This past spring, CAT brought an ice skating rink to the Tolentine Hall parking lot. Also, the On the Green programming that CAT introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic, which included fire pits and food trucks on the Campus Green, will be brought back this coming year.

Courtesy of WXVU

If you’d like to join CAT’s team, you can join as a volunteer right after the Student Involvement Fair. CAT is not too strenuous of a commitment, with just one brief meeting each week for volunteers.

You can join any of CAT’s numerous departments. The core operations departments are Late Night Programming and Special Events. CAT’s regular programming such as NovaQuizzo, movie watch nights, and game watches fall under these departments, as well as holiday programs, live entertainment, and events on the Campus Green. The Trips and Excursions Department plans CAT’s off-campus trips. Finally, CAT’s Marketing Department gets out the word about all of these great events.

“CAT events are a great way to not only make friends and have fun, but also get involved on campus,” CAT Vice President of Operations Joe Madera said. “I made some of my best friends by attending CAT events like Quizzo nights and Movie nights, and becoming involved in planning both of those brought me closer to my fellow CAT members as well as the rest of the student population.”

CAT kept the Villanova community together during COVID-19, and it will likely do an even better job of engaging the student body as we enter a new, restriction-free academic year.

The Villanovan | 49

Special Olympics

By Jack Roberge

The Pennsylvania Special Olymics will be the weekend!” Getting involved with SpO as an LPH returning to Villanova University for the first time since is a great way to engage with the Special Olympics comthe beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in just over munity and make a difference in the lives of others.

90 days. Villanova Special Olympics, commonly re Villanova Students also have the opportunity ferred to as SpO, runs the Villanova Fall Festival. Fall to join the Inclusion Crew, which does not require an Fest is the largest student-run Special Olympics event application like most SpO leadership positions do. The in the world. Pennsylvania Special Olympics offers four members of the Inclusion Crew are heavily involved in seasonal events to athletes with intellectual disabilities. Fall Festival in roles such as participating in awards cerThere are over 20,000 athletes that participate in the emonies, transporting the athletes, cheering on the athfour statewide events, over 1000 of which participate in letes during their events and much more. Throughout the Villanova Fall Festival. Athletes at Fall Festival partic- the year, members of the Inclusion Crew also particiipate in six sports: bocce, long distance running, power pate in Unified Sports events which are tournaments for lifting, roller skating, soccer and volleyball. the athletes that take place outside of the four seasonal

For Villanova students, there are a few different events. There are many other ways to get involved as a ways to get involved with Special Olympics. The most member of the Inclusion Crew, so make sure to check commonly talked about role with SpO is the Local Pro- them out. gram Host, or LPH. The role is reserved for freshmen, Villanova Special Olympics is a fantastic way and the application and interview process takes place to get involved in a way that makes a genuine impact in at the beginning of freshman year. According to the the lives of others. Make sure you get involved this year Villanova Special Olympics website, “LPHs get to know as Fall Festival makes a comeback. To contact Villanova their athletes throughout the weekend, cheer them on Special Olympics, email oncampusvols@villanovaspo. during competition, create posters and cheer to support com, find them on Instagram @villanovaspecialolymthem and set an overall positive and exuberant tone for pics or look for them at this year’s involvement fair.

50 | The Villanovan

NOVAdance

By Joe Adams

Courtesy of @nova_dance on Instagram

NOVAdance is a great way to get involved on campus, meet tons of kind people, and raise money for a great cause. It is a year-long fundraising effort that ends in a fun-filled 12 hour dance marathon each spring. The great part about NOVAdance is that we work together as a Villanova community in order to support the Andrew McDonough B+ Foundation, honoring the memory of Andrew, a 14-year-old athlete from Wilmington, Delaware. In 2007, Andrew tragically suffered a cardiac arrest with leukemia, and although the doctors didn’t expect Andrew to live through the night, he fought for an extra 167 days and passed away on July 14, 2007.

While Andrew was sick, he inspired so many around him, and after learning his blood type was B+, our motto for NOVAdance became “Be Positive”. NOVAdance was created to honor his memory and remember all of those who he inspired along the way.

One unique aspect of NOVAdance is our B+ Heroes, who are children battling cancer or who have previously battled cancer.

With help from the B+ Foundation and our support, their families have been able to pay off medical bills and stay optimistic for a bright future. Villanova is lucky to have adopted fifteen B+ Heroes paired with campus organizations. Throughout

the year, we are able to meet, bond with, and inspire these kids to give them courage and strength throughout their fight against cancer. In this way, students can truly feel that they are making impacts as part of NOVAdance.

Since 2013, Villanovans have come together for the annual NOVAdance marathon, raising millions of dollars for childhood cancer. The marathon was the highlight of my freshman year, because it was not only insanely fun, but we were also able to support a great cause together.

The NOVAdance marathon is a 12-hour dance marathon that takes place right on Villanova’s main campus. Everyone can come dance, participate in fun games, eat great food, watch performers, walk through the reflection room, meet the B+ Heroes, and participate in an event for a great cause. At the end of the night, we reveal how much we’ve raised over the past year. Last year, we raised a whopping $481,753.64 to support our families! Trust me, it is definitely a highlight of being a Villanova student, and we’re already counting down the days until next year’s marathon.

So, if you’re wondering how you can get involved in NOVAdance, there are many ways you can do so. First, anyone can sign up to fundraise for the B+ Foun-

dation. If you want to be part of a team and get to know members even better, most people also join the Morale Committee (MoCo), which builds interest for the event and greatly aids in raising funds for the B+ Foundation. To be a MoCo member, one needs to raise $167 in honor of Andrew McDonough’s 167-day battle with Leukemia. But, I quickly learned that this is a very reachable goal, and team captains offer plenty of fundraising ideas throughout the year.

Another option is to be a sidekick. These members apply in the fall, and are even more involved in NOVAdance, including building close relationships with our B+ Heroes, working to plan NOVAdance as an event and as a yearlong fundraising effort, promoting the event, and working to ensure NOVAdance is as successful as possible! Overall, there are plenty of ways to become involved.

Besides the dance marathon, NOVAdance hosts many fundraising events throughout the year, including silent discos, restaurant weeks, canning trips, bake sales, and more. Check out NovaDance. org for more valuable information about this exciting club.

If you are looking for an easy way to become involved for your first year, dance in a big crowd (finally) and have an awesome time, look no further than NOVAdance.

The Villanovan | 51

WXVU: The Voice (and Music) of Villanovans

By A.J. Fezza

WXVU is Villanova’s student-run radio station. The station broadcasts 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 89.1 FM. WXVU’s signal serves not just Villanova’s campus but also the Main Line area of suburban Philadelphia, including the towns of Radnor, Lower Merion, Upper Merion, Newtown, Plymouth, Haverford, Easttown, Tredyffrin and Conshohocken. Bandwidth is limited in a crowded market like the Philadelphia region, so WXVU shares its frequency with Cabrini College.

WXVU has a schedule of approximately 90-minute programs that play each week. Programs range from sports talk to news and pop culture discussions to music. WXVU also proudly partners with Philadelphia’s 92.9 WGGT-LP Germantown Community Radio, a community-oriented LPFM station, to feature diverse programming about issues and events in Philadelphia.

“With the long-awaited return to normalcy this fall, we’re looking forward to ramping up podcasting and getting new DJs in the studio, but most of all, we’re excited to be back on the air doing what we love,” WXVU Station Manager Allison Bajada said.

WXVU’s music programs, curated by Villanova students, play all sorts of genres. The music styles played on the station range from rap to classic and

Courtesy of WXVU 52 | The Villanovan

indie rock to smooth jazz. Some programs play music not based on genre, but on unique themes.

For example, the program “Songs for Someone,” hosted by Margot Varrichio, themes each week’s music around a different person in her life.

WXVU also has a blog called The Barricade that posts about music featured on the station, student artists at Villanova, and underground artists that tour Philadelphia.

Some of the most creative programming at WXVU is found in its talk radio. Most recently, WXVU has featured shows such as “Static Air,” a talk show about pop culture, “Spin Around Sports,” a deep dive into baseball, football, college basketball and hockey, and “Big & Small Talk,” which features the diverse ramblings of two friends.

Numerous shows on WXVU feature a combination of music and talk. One example is the show “Please Tune In!,” hosted by WXVU Station Manager Allison Bajada and WXVU Business Manager Ryan Dery.

“Our show is a mix of popular music and light conversation about recent news, life at Villanova and our personal niche interests,” Dery said.

Over the past few years, the demand for podcasts has exploded. As a result, WXVU has expanded into podcasts as well. WXVU members have the ability to create their own shows, record them at Villanova and upload each episode onto streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Podcasts. For example, WXVU’s “Think Negative” radio show, which gave weekly updates about Villanova’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, can also be found on Spotify. You can ex-

Courtesy of WXVU

pect more WXVU radio shows to end up on Spotify in the coming year.

At the very beginning of each year, WXVU holds an information session for all incoming members. At this session, those who are interested in having their own radio program apply to start training. Then, they shadow hosts with shows in the same genre as their proposed show a few times in order to learn how to use all of WXVU’s equipment, learn all the rules for being on air and in general to get accustomed to the live radio broadcast experience.

There is no experience necessary to join WXVU, and all majors are welcomed to get involved. WXVU is also not a significant time strain on its members.

“WXVU is great because it works with any schedule and only requires you to put in as much effort as you want,” Dery said. “You can get very involved or it can be just a small commitment.”

If you have an interest in any particular topic or simply wish to speak your mind to the world, you can have your very own show at Villanova’s WXVU.

WELCOME TO THE NOVA NATION,

CLASS OF 2025!

Promote school spirit.

Create connections.

Gain valuable skills.

WE CAN'T WAIT TO HELP YOU ON YOUR PATH TO SUCCESS!

GAREY HALL SUITE 117 | 610.519.4060 | CAREERS.VILLANOVA.EDU

@VillanovaSAA @VillanovaSAA The Villanovan | 53

Courtesy of The Villanova Haveners

Join Villanova A Cappella.

There are eight hard-working and talented groups you can audition for on campus. The two male groups are Vocal Minority and Spires, the three female groups are Sirens, Nothing But Treble and Haveners and the three co-ed groups are Supernovas, Minor Problem and Measure Up. Auditions are held at the beginning of each semester in St. Mary’s. For your audition, prepare to sing a verse and chorus, preferably of an upbeat pop song. If one or more groups believe you stood out among the rest, you will sing a verse and chorus of a different song at your callback audition.

Once you amaze those members a second time, you will select which group you would like to be a part of out of the ones who called you back. If this group also chooses you, you’re officially a member of Villanova A Cappella.

Pre-audition jitters are completely normal. However, Samantha Aitken, a Senior and member of Minor Problem, can ease your worries and give you some great advice. “My audition experience was definitely nerve-wracking, but every group was so positive and supportive,” she says. “Pick songs that show off your voice and your personality, and really try to see what group or groups are the right fit for you. That’s just as important 54 | The Villanovan

A Cappella

By Skylar Musick

as how the group feels about you.

Always remember that those of us on the other side of the table are rooting for you.”

Three times per week, each group practices their own arrangements. Each of those rehearsals is two hours long. During the Fall Semester, each group performs for Family Weekend, at SpOlooza (for Special Olympics), Spookapella, Homecoming, and at an end-of-semester concert. During most of these events, each group sings two to three songs, but at the final concert, the two performing groups sing between nine and ten songs.

In the Spring Semester, almost our entire campus attends A Cappella Palooza. There, each group performs three songs on stage with colorful lights and choreography.

Aitken is always most eager for the performances. “We can feed off each other’s energy and the energy of the crowd,” she shares.

“Singing our arrangements loud and proud brings me so much joy, and it makes all our hard work in rehearsals even more worthwhile.” When these singers are not on campus,

some of them are competing in the International Championship of Collegiate A Cappella (ICCA).

In the past four years, they have finished as quarterfinalists and semifinalists.

Most importantly, the a cappella community is fun, supportive and full of love. Every group only wants what is best for the others. “I feel so lucky to have made lifelong friends both in my own group and in all the a cappella groups.” Aitken says. “We all love getting to hear each other at performances. The mingling between groups also means that there are even more familiar faces around campus. It’s such a great community.” Members spend a lot of time with each other outside of rehearsals and performances as well, whether it be in someone’s apartment or on a trip to Philadelphia. Come audition to find your home on campus and become part of the family this semester.

Courtesy of The Villanovan

A Villanovan’s Pocket Dictionary

By Cate McCusker

When I first came to campus my freshman year, I thought Fall Fest was a fun event Villanova held where everyone would carve pumpkins and jump into piles of leaves. Don’t laugh, I’m sure some of you think the Courts are a nice place to play basketball. Never fear, The Villanovan is here to provide you with your own personal dictionary.

Bart: Bartley Hall, home to Villanova School of Business CAT: Campus Activity Team CampCo: Campus Corner, a popular pizza spot located on the edge of campus. Make sure to try their milkshakes and Zilly fries.

Conn: The Connelly Center Courts: The hottest and sweatiest place on Earth, but you’ll have to experience it for yourself.

Cova: Cafe Nova Fall Fest: The largest annual student-run Special Olympics event in the world.

NovaDance: This 12 hour long danceathon is the culmination of year long fundraising efforts for children with pediatric cancer.

OC: Orientation Counselor Pit: The dining hall located at the bottom of Dougherty Hall.

Pub Safe: Public Safety, Villanova’s on campus police.

SpO: Special Olympics The Exchange: A second home for Greek life located on the Driscoll side of Bartley Hall. Amazing food, but it will cost you points if you don’t have the meal plan upgrade.

The Finn: The Finneran Pavilion

The Oreo: The statue in the middle of campus titled The Awakening, but no one actuSAC: St. Augustine Center ally calls it that. The perfect Sheehan Beach: The grassy place to hang out on a sunny area in front of Sheehan Hall, day. a great place to play spikeball The Quad: Sullivan and or have a cookout.

Sheehan Hall.

Freshens: Located in the Sparket and Conn, Freshens offers great smoothies for a meal swipe... if you can figure out when it’s open.

South: South Campus, the area of campus where most freshmen live. Arguably some of the worst dorms on campus.

KOP: King of Prussia Mall, the third largest shopping mall in the U.S. and a 15 minute drive from campus.

Sparket: Spit-Market, the convenience store attached to Spit.

Late-night: Food available after normal dining hours.

Mozz sticks absolutely hit the spot after Courts.

Spit: South-Pit, root word Pit, is the dining hall located on South Campus. Not the best name for a place to eat, but some say this is the best dining hall on campus.

VEMS: Villanova Emergency Medical Service. Try not to get VEMed your first week on campus, not a great look.

VTV: Villanova TV West: West Campus containing apartments for upperclassmen, St. Mary’s and Garey Hall.

The Villanovan | 55

VTV: VILLANOVA TELEVISION

By A.J. Fezza

Villanova Television, or VTV, is a student-run film and media organization that produces news, sports and entertainment content while supporting the Villanova community by creating videos for other groups on campus. No experience is required to join the club and all majors are welcomed!

VTV has gone through many changes throughout its history. Formerly channel 17 on televisions on Villanova’s campus, VTV is now dedicated not to TV programming but to digital content.

The club is currently divided into the following departments: News, Sports, Entertainment, Tech, External and Internal.

The News Department covers notable events on campus and in the surrounding area. The Department interviews guest speakers and serves as a voice for student activism. Its goal is to gather student and faculty opinions on everything affecting the Villanova community.

Some VTV News programs include “Nova News Update,” which gives a rundown of recent campus news, “Hit The Quad,” which features VTV reporters interviewing students passing through The Quad on the way to class, and “Calls for Change,” which features VTV members interviewing organizations and students affiliated with the University.

The Sports Department covers everything sports-related, from intramural and club sports to our famous Division I men’s basketball team. The Department films

COURTESY OF VTV 56 | The Villanovan

sports activities, gets press passes for basketball games and creates podcasts for all levels of Villanova and professional sports.

The Entertainment Department writes and shoots short films and series of all genres. In the past, Entertainment has debuted comedic parodies of Villanova student life, pop culture hot take segments and murder mystery films. The Entertainment Department gives Villanova students the opportunity to develop passion projects and hone their writing and media production skills.

The Tech Department manages VTV’s film equipment, from cameras to computers, and decides what new equipment is needed.

The External Department provides video and editing services for other student groups on campus and covers school-wide events.

The events covered by the External Department include the annual Special Olympics, a cappella concerts, stand-up and improv comedy shows and more. The External Department works from the start of each academic year to the end, covering orientation weekend and graduation commencement ceremonies.

The Internal Department manages VTV’s social media accounts and organizes club bonding activities and film contests, like the 48 Hour Challenge and The Villys.

What are these film contests, you ask?

When it comes to the 48 Hour Film Challenge, the name says it all. Groups of up to six people have 48 hours to write, film, edit, and submit a short film that satisfies a given prompt. For example, at the 2020 challenge, groups had to include the line “What are you doing, step bro?” and use chocolate as a prop. At the 2021 challenge, groups had to include the line “that’s what they want you to think” and use a lamp as a prop.

COURTESY OF VTV

The Villys are an even grander event. The first ever Villys, Villanova University’s campus-wide student film festival, was held on Apr. 23, 2021. VTV plans to hold the 2022 Villys around the same time of year. At The Villys, VTV gives out numerous awards, most notably awards for Best Drama, Best Comedy, Best Documentary and of course, Best Picture.

Going forward, VTV plans to hold more campus-wide events like music video challenges.

VTV has made a major impact on campus over the past year. VTV won Villanova’s Advocacy Award for its Calls for Change video series. Additionally, Associate Entertainment Director Patrick Lyons won the Community Service Award for raising environmental awareness through his VTV series “Sustainability on Campus,” and Sports Director Alexis Brenner won the First Year Student Leader of the Year Award for her involvement in the club. In the year to come, you can expect VTV to amass even more accomplishments.

“We’re excited to have more in person events and to have more people interacting with the camera,” VTV President Audrey Agnew said. “We’re excited to deliver a more connected and authentic Villanova experience to the incoming class.”

If you have an interest in video production, are looking for a creative outlet, or simply wish to find a way to connect with the Villanova community, then VTV is the club for you.

The Show Must Go On: Performance Arts During The Plague

By Bailey Quinn

The new Mullen Center for the Performing Arts.

Courtesy of Villanova University

If you ask anyone on campus which student demographic rivals the business students in its passion, they would immediately direct you to the Villanova Student Theatre and Villanova Student Musical Theatre programs, known as VST and VSMT, respectively.

While both offer similar experiences, Villanova Student Theatre focuses on producing plays, whereas Villanova Student Musical Theatre focuses on producing musicals. During the fall and spring semesters, both organizations work in earnest to produce

shows that showcase the talents of cast and crew. Whether one chooses to audition or join the crew, every member of VST and VSMT contributes something special to the productions. Not only do the members each offer their expertise and talents, but also their passion, drive and energy.

Throughout the past year, the resilience and passion of these organizations has been on full display, with VST producing its regular two shows, maintaining some sense of normalcy with small differences, like wearing masks at all times, in addition to some larger differences, like no hugs after rehearsals and no touching in scenes (even the romantic ones).

Even still, Villanova Student Theatre managed to put on the fall production of Pride and Prejudice and the spring production of You Can’t Take It With You. Both were available, via livestream, from the new Mullen Center for the Performing Arts on Lancaster Avenue. In spite of academic, health and personal obstacles, every single person who contributed to the production gave everything they had to offer, body and soul, and walked away with experiences and friendships that have surpassed the last curtain call.

Additionally, with respect to the limitations on gatherings, VST VSMT’s 2020 Production of “Singin’ in and VSMT also still managed to the Rain.”

Courtesy of @novavsmt on Instagram run Bigs & Littles, a tradition in the

programs to connect new Villanovans with upperclassmen, bonding them with generations of Villanova students before them who have passed through those same theatres. Similar to that of sororities and fraternities, Bigs give Littles fun and quirky challenges, sometimes singing challenges featuring Littles’ acting and vocal range, and other times encouraging Littles to wear something silly for the day.

All the while, Littles have no idea just who their Bigs are until the Big Reveal ceremony. And when their families are revealed, there are tears shed, new bonds formed and connections forever made.

When one is a part of VST and VSMT, one is a part of a family. Although this pandemic has forced us to come together and create in new ways, it is always an honor and privilege for any artist to work amongst other passionate and talented individuals and work together to overcome any obstacles in their path.

Those interested should consider auditioning and applying to join our crew this upcoming fall, with the VST production of Clue: On Stage and the VSMT production of Legally Blonde. Regardless of your expertise, there is room for everyone.

Follow @vstheatre and @ novavsmt on Instagram for more information about taking part in our shows.

The Villanovan | 57

58 | The Villanovan

An Introduction to SGA: From Inside of SGA

Coming into Villanova as a freshman just a year ago, I was looking for opportunities on campus to help bridge the gap from my small high school to life on Villanova’s campus. With my active involvement in student council since elementary school, I found the Student Government Association, more commonly known on campus as SGA, and I knew that was the perfect place for me.

As the fall semester continued, I decided to run to be a class senator, and I ultimately won that election, along with five of my peers, who are now great friends.

Winning this election granted me a seat in the SGA Senate, which felt so comfortable to me, even though we were only able to meet over Zoom.

Of course, running for Senate is a great opportunity, and I would highly recommend it to all of you who are interested, but the truth is that only six members of the class of 2025 will be able to win a seat this fall when you all have the opportunity to vote. The positive, however, is that SGA offers so much more than just the Senate.

Composed of three branches, similar to the basic structure of the United States government, the executive, legislative, and judicial branches are all made up of students for Villanova’s undergraduate population.

The executive branch is led by the Student Body President along with a Student Body Vice President, Vice President of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion, the Chief of Staff, Director of Programming, Director of Public Relations, Director of Finance, and the Director of the Basketball Lottery. The legislative branch is composed of senators for every inch of campus. With 15 total class senators, 7 total school senators, and 12 student life senators, every student in the under-

By Andrew Kline

graduate population is represented by at least 1 senator from their college and 3 senators from their class (each year’s freshman class gets 6 seats until the spring election). The judicial branch is the most inward-facing branch, but it is composed of 5 justices and a clerk.

The executive branch offers many opportunities to join the organization without having to campaign and win an election which is the perfect fit for many students. With the expansive range of the departments, there truly is a fit for everyone within the executive branch.

So there are a lot of people involved in SGA to make up all of these branches and departments, but there are a few names that you should know. Caroline Levine, along with Ivanica Skalko, were elected to the roles of Student Body President and Student Body Vice President, respectively, in mid-March of 2021 and they will continue to serve in those roles until approximately April 2022. Also in the executive branch, Kristian Olivera has been appointed to the newly instated role of Vice President of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion and will serve in that position until approximately April 2022.

Lauren Amoo and Lucy Baxter are the Speaker and Dean of the Senate, respectively, until approximately April 2022. Finally, Rachel Reardon is currently serving as the chief justice.

One crucial aspect of SGA is its role of serving you, the students. The countless meetings for the different segments of the organization and the legislation passed through the functions of government, all combine to improve the student experience. SGA has an office located on the second floor of Dougherty Hall surrounded by

Caroline Levine and Ivanica Skalko, student body president and vp, respectively.

Courtesy of Ivanica Skalko’s Instagram

many departments in the Division of Student Life which makes it the perfect place for students to drop by with questions, comments, suggestions, concerns, or anything else you might need. SGA also has an active presence on social media and a regularly checked email account so that no student’s question goes unanswered or concern goes unaddressed.

Additionally, SGA works to provide a variety of events throughout the year. Some offerings include just simple, fun activities to co-sponsorships with other clubs and organizations on campus, but the most exciting events are the ones where SGA brings the university administrators right to you. Each year, the organization hosts Town Hall with Father Peter, Pizza with the Provost, and Feast with the Friars so that students can learn more about the decisions that are being made to run the university or simply just learn about life in the monastery and our Augustinian Catholic traditions.

I truly cannot express how great of an opportunity it has been for me serving as both a Class of 2024 Senator and now as the College of Engineering Senator in SGA. I have gotten to make so many friends in a year when forming even basic connections was hard. I have gotten to meet so many people across campus from students to administration. And most importantly I have found a way to spend even just a little bit of guaranteed time away from my studies every week.

The Villanovan | 59

The Villanova Band

By Chris Leonard

The Villanova Pep Band.

Courtesy of The Comeback

The Villanova Band was my first experience being a college student, as I moved in early for band camp before orientation even started. The band really gave me that immediate community that showed the school’s values of family.

The band is a 3 - in - 1 organization, where all members participate in the scramble, pep, and concert ensembles. The scramble band’s main event is the Villanova Wildcats’ Football Team, which involves playing on the field for pregame and halftime, tailgating performances on campus, and playing in the stands during the game.

The pep band plays at multiple campus events like Special Olympics, CHOP Buddy Walk, and Day of Service. Pep also plays at Women’s Volleyball, and the Men’s and Women’s Basketball Teams, where members are eligible to travel for Big East Championships and postseason March Madness.

Our concert band plays 60 | The Villanovan

more classical and technical pieces for a few concerts like Parents Weekend, Christmas, and Springtime.

The band goes on trips every year for service opportunities as well. One of my favorite memories was on the fall break service trips called Fall Tour. My freshmen year, we went to Raleigh and OBX in North Carolina for a tour. Some of the amazing moments included playing for the school of the blind, volunteering at an animal shelter,

flying kites at sunset on the Kill Devil Hills sand dunes and going to the beach at 3 am with everyone.

This trip encapsulates everything the band stands for, from music to service to family.

The band welcomes all students of all skill levels to come to join the band. The band practices 6-8pm in the St. Mary’s band room (under Second Storey and St. Mary’s dining hall) on Mondays and Tuesdays. We hope to see you there. Go Cats!

Villanova’s famous “crying piccolo girl” from the 2015 season.

Courtesy of SB Nation

Greek Life at Villanova

ity, fraternity or multicultural fraternity does not determine who a person is friends with; it only has the potential to elevate one’s overall college experience.

The Office of Delta Gamma’s 2020 New Member Class.

Courtesy of Villanova University Fraternity and Sorority Life (OFSL) strives to enhance Villanova’s

At Villanova Unicommunity by preaching Augusversity, students have the tinian values, making Villanova a opportunity to get involved happier and more inclusive place within their community through principles OFSL exhorts. in a multitude of ways.

Approximately 2000 For many students, a great Villanovans make up the school’s way to do that is through eight Panhellenic sororities, eight Greek Life. fraternities, and seven multicultur Greek Life has al fraternities.

As of Spring 2019, been active at Villanova Villanova Greek Life raised more University for almost 100 than $305,000 for charities, had a years, yet Villanova’s vercumulative GPA of 3.4 and clocked sion of Greek Life differs almost 8400 hours of service.

At from other schools across the end of the day, Villanova Greek the country. There are Life focuses on service by bringing no sorority or fraternity houses on campus, making Villanovans together to give back to Greek Life more of a club communities near and far.

Despite having similar to join, rather than a life- values, fraternities and sororities at style. Additionally, students Villanova have very different ways participate in a deferred of recruiting new members. recruitment process start For fraternities, the recruiting the second semester ment process is more of a casual of their freshmen years. experience, and there is no clear Having this delayed-type structure.

Fraternities will host of recruitment allows stuevents to meet potential new memdents to make friends and bers in more of a relaxed setting connections in other ways such as sporting events or additional during their first semester social events. of college.

The recruitment process

Having Greek for Panhellenic sororities has more Life act as almost a club of a clear structure.

Recruitment on campus instead of a is done through a mutual selection way of life allows students process, allowing for each potential to bring together more new member to find her best match groups of people. A sororwithin a sorority. Usually, the process is done over four days.

On the first day of recruitment, each potential new member (PNM) will meet with each sorority for the Sisterhood round. Each potential new member will go to all of the sororities and learn what 2018 Members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Soror- sisterhood means to each chapter. ity, Inc. Tau Xi Chapter. This round is usually broken up into Courtesy of Villanova University

By Kendall Hayes

two days.

The next round of recruitment is the Philanthropy round, during which PNMs will go back to at most five sororities. Sororities will show potential new members what philanthropic organizations they are involved in, all while continuing to get to know each PNM better.

The final round of recruitment is the Preferential round. During this

Members of Phi Sigma Kappa.

Courtesy of Villanova University

round, PNMs will continue getting to know the two sororities they are meeting with better, and by the end of the day, ultimately will have an idea of which sorority they will want to join.

All of the chapters on Villanova’s campus, despite being different, all harness in on Villanova’s core Augustinian values making each member truly flourish. Greek Life allows for different groups of students to come together and participate in service while being a member of a form of brotherhood and sisterhood. Whether you were planning on participating in any of the three types of recruitment or not, Greek Life on Villanova’s campus only has the ability to enhance your experience at Villanova, not hinder it.

The Villanovan | 61

U

CAMPUS CULTURE An Insider’s Guide to Some of

Orientation Counselors

I’m sure you’ve already realized this, but your OC is part of an elite group. In order to join Orientation Staff, you must have the most hype and electric personality at 8 in the morning.

If you can’t rock a bucket hat, you can’t sit with them.

Greek Life

Similar to the athletic teams, members of Greek life also have their own uniforms that make them easy to spot out on campus. For frat guys, their closet usually includes flip flops, RayBans, pastel colored shorts and patterned Hawaiian shirts (you can tear that top button off, you won’t be using it). Sorority girls are easiest to spot in the winter, just keep an eye out for a flock of Canadian geese searching for VSB

Wait...you’re not in Villanova’s their new “babies.” nationally ranked business school?

How do you plan on finding a job Blue Key after graduation lol.

If you sit in The Exchange long

Members of the Blue enough, you’ll hear lots of great tips Key Society are Villanova’s for investing in Dogecoin, Gamestop own unpaid interns. These and plenty of other reliable and well tour guides don’t need monresearched investments. Just don’t ask ey, though. They memorize why we can’t print more money unabout 200 facts and talk less you want a sophomore’s 20 minabout Villanova for almost ute lecture on inflation. an hour straight just out of sheer school pride. Blue Key kids are experts in walking NOVAdance backwards, and they basical In addition to being able to dance for sev- ly bleed blue. Huge props to this group, because a lot of eral hours straight, one of the main requireus wouldn’t be here without ments to join NovaDance is that you must be able to post on your instagram story. Students them. who are a part of NovaDance go all out and they have no problem embarrassing themselves publicly to raise money for the B+ Heroes.

62 | The Villanovan

AT VILLANOVA the Biggest Groups on Campus The Villanovan

Literally the coolest club on campus with, in our honest opinion, the best instagram page in the game. When they’re not out chasing a story, members of The Villanovan can usually be found in their matching blue sweatshirts hanging out in “The Office,” a cozy spot located in the basement of Corr Hall. On Wednesday afternoons, the writers and editors of The Villanovan can also easily be spotted on campus, as they seem to be the only people actually picking up the paper. I’m sure everyone else just reads it online though...right?

Athletic Teams

Athletes are the most visibly recognizable group on campus as they have their own uniforms. The coveted backpacks, stitched with each athlete’s name and team, make it extremely easy to find them on their roster, just in case you need to figure out who the cute baseball player sitting next to you in Conn is.

The thicc blue Parka is also an essential item of the uniform that must be worn as soon as the temperature drops below 60 degrees.

By The Villanovan

Nationers

Ah, the coveted title of “Nationer.” Officially, Nationers are Villanovans who were a Local Program Host for Special Olympics their freshman year, a member of the Blue Key Society, and an Orientation Counselor. However, students who are in each of the “Big 3,” Blue Key, Orientation and Special Olympics, (sometimes NovaDance is included, depending on who you ask) are usually also considered recipients of the triple crown title.

Due to each organization’s exclusive nature, these students take pride in their clubs.

To show off their involvement, Nationers wear their letters with colorful bandanas on the handles of their backpacks signifying their numerous accomplishments. Still unsure of how to spot Nationers on campus?

Just look for the students speedwalking to their next committee or steering group meeting.

The Villanovan | 63

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Sometimes, all it takes is a simple ‘no thanks’ to send you flying back into the grips of cold, hard reality.

So, you applied for a club, or auditioned for a group and they looked at you, smiled and let Ariana Grande fall off their lips with a swift and brutal “Thank you, next.”

Rejection.

It happens...

Not only have I been there and done that, I have done that over and over again. I know the feeling and, let’s be honest, it can be brutal. Quite frankly, there is no better person to help you master 64 | The Villanovan

the art of hearing the word ‘no’ from a club than yours truly. Let me shed some wisdom.

In high school, there is often a wide range of student ability and involvement levels. That’s not the case in college. At Villanova, everyone is involved, capable and intelligent. Suddenly, we are all big fish gone small, which can intensify every experience from academics to extracurriculars. Maybe you are used to not getting picked for something you try out for, or maybe getting cut is a completely foreign concept, but either way, it’s something that most of you will have to face when up against so many other equally talented individuals. When you accept that, you stand to gain validation from within, and not from those determining who is in and who is out of whatever you’re trying to participate in.

Villanova has a lot of elite organizations.

These organizations do fantastic things, so they are often coveted by many students. That being said, these clubs usually only have a certain number of spots available for students, making them wildly competitive. To name a few: Blue Key, Orientation, and Local Program Hosts for Special Olympics.

Competition isn’t a bad thing, but for those who don’t end up winning in the way we originally hoped, it can definitely be disheartening.

When I auditioned for Villanova’s a capella groups about a week into my freshmen year, I thought I crushed it. In fact, it seemed like these groups I auditioned for thought the exact same way.

I was full of hope, like I was on the precipice of my new life at Villanova. That is, until I sat alone in my dorm room waiting for the knock that would signify a group had chosen me as their newest member and had come to welcome me in. Instead of getting a knock of my own, I sat in silence as I listened to the distant knocks, screams and the suddenly irritating pitch perfect harmonies that echoed through the halls from where the students who made the cut lived; their new a capella members welcoming them.

Needless to say, the scene was dreary.

However, it is moments of rejection like these that lead us to the path we are meant to be on.

A capella was only the first of the multiple rejections Villanova extracurriculars gave me, and I am sure there are even some more to come, but each of these rejections has taught me the value in hearing the word ‘no.’

There are so many things to get involved in at Villanova, so you do not have to limit yourself to the preconceived notions you have in your head. For example, if I hadn’t gotten cut from a capella, who knows if I would have committed myself so intensely to The Villanovan, which eventually landed me in an editor position. If I hadn’t gotten cut from being an Orientation counselor, I definitely wouldn’t have applied to be a leadership ambassador for women empowerment with the Anne Welsh McNulty

Institute on campus. As the saying goes, when one door closes, another one opens. The truth is, you just have to be the person to find that next open door, and the only way to do that is to push past the negativity that comes with rejection. Stay open to the possibilities, even if it means you have to risk getting another ‘no.’

Another thing is that getting rejected does not mean you aren’t talented or smart.

Sometimes there isn’t even a good reason for a rejection, it is just the deal you’ve gotten. A ‘no’, as I have learned, only has as much power as you give it. The more you dwell on a rejection, the less inclined you are to grow from it. What I always try to do is to remember that my idea of what it would be like to be involved in a particular club is not the reality, and that maybe the reality of it all wouldn’t have been as fitting for me as I thought.

The people already involved in said club already know that, so whatever they decided was for the

best.

However, a rejection can also teach you the power of persistence. For many clubs at Villanova, you must reapply each year, giving you and everyone else a clean slate. If it is something you still really want to be a part of, a rejection can be the fuel that fires your drive to do better, which might just set you apart from other applicants. Sometimes, it’s not the most naturally talented one in the room that gets the job, but the one who shows the best work ethic.

So in reality, a rejection can have a lot of positive effects and uses, and the only thing that can get in your way of seeing this is your own mindset. Rejection at some point is inevitable, so let this be your guide in how to deal with it, and your sign that there is never a ‘no’ so permanent as the one you give to yourself. Take it from a person who has been through the rejections from multiple Villanova clubs - there is always another one, with another rewarding experience, waiting for you around the corner.

...But everything happens for

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Calling one, calling all for the first annual ...

Inclusion Week was created to raise awareness about cultural and advocacy based student organizations and resource offices.

T

We want to celebrate diversity,

AL

ENT SHO W

create a tighter unity throughout campus, and empower underrepresented communities.

We want to see your most interesting, unique talent!

All

freshmen are encouraged to join by signing up with the link provided by the QR code:

The Inclusion Week Talent Show will take place

Friday

October 1, closing out an eventful and amazing week! @diversityvusga on Instagram or go to www.villanovasga.org to learn more about Inclusion Follow us

Week! We can't wait to see you on campus!

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OFF Campus

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What the Bleep Do I Wear?

Answers for Your Wardrobe

Among the excitement of becoming a college student, there is always a wave of uncertainty as new high school graduates approach the unknown. After making the difficult decision of where to study, even more pressing questions start to unfold.

What should I pack? What classes should I take? What do I even want to do with my life? While these are certainly important considerations, the most crucial thought looms over the heads of many: what the bleep do I wear?

As a Villanova student whose life revolves around all things fashion, my answer for you is simple: I don’t have one. I wish I could make life easier by providing a blueprint on what you should or should not wear as a college freshman, but such a blueprint does not exist.

One of the most important takeaways from my freshman year at Villanova was the realization that not everyone dresses the same, and that is totally okay.

The common “preppy” stereotype that comes with going to a private university was one I was not equipped for, was quickly debunked, and my own personal style was solidified. Whether you wear Golden Gooses or beat-up Converse, Lilly Pulitzer or Supreme, it really does not matter.

As cliché as it sounds, the best advice I can give is to stop paying attention to what your

roommate or lab partner or club president is wearing and draw your focus to styling yourself in what makes you feel the most comfortable. You are no longer stuck in the incessant copy and paste era known as high school.

Find your fashion inspiration, experiment with unique style choices and develop your personal style. Everyone has his or her own, and everyone’s is different.

One of the most infamous dilemmas students run into when it comes to college fashion is the dressing up for class debate.

I am confident that everyone has run into the question of whether they should squeeze into their tight fitted jeans or roll out of bed in pajamas for their 8 a.m. class. And if anyone were to disagree with me on this, I would confidently call them a liar - with the utmost respect of course.

As many do, I came into my college experience with the impression that I would dress my best for class every day. I mean, how else was I going to impress my TA or that cute guy I always made awkward eye contact with in Bartley? (Kidding). I’m pretty sure that kind of thing only happens in movies because after day one, I gave up on my “dressing to the nines to calc class” fantasy.

I found myself picking out my outfits based on how I felt each morning. Feeling tired? Wear sweatpants. Feeling creative? Get

By Kaelin Trombly

creative with your outfit. I have friends who dress up for class because it keeps them motivated, and I have others who dress down because they work better in comfort. In reality, there really is no debate. The decision on what to rock to class is all up to you, and no one else will pay any mind.

While I can’t tell you exactly what to wear to class, there are a few basics that every college freshman should pack. Pajamas are a must. Throw in a few pairs of sweatpants and sweatshirts for those lazy days. Jeans are a staple for sure. Jackets are certainly helpful for the winter, and bathrobes are a great addition for your ventures back from the showers. If you are a gym rat, bring workout clothes, and if you aren’t, leave them at home.

While this list could go on and on, there is an essential that must be brought. A pair of shoes you don’t mind getting dirty. Enough said.

As Orientation is creeping around the corner and your college experience is about to begin, don’t sweat over your closet. Listen to yourself and what makes you comfortable.

Find your personal style and stick with it. Pay no attention to what everyone else is wearing or doing because it does not matter. The answer? Wear whatever the bleep you want.

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E

Exploring

PHILAD

You picked Villanova for a number of reasons: the incredible community, our three-time NCAA championship-winning basketball team, an incredible student newspaper and a great location.

Snuggled in between the peaceful and suburban towns of Wayne and Bryn Mayr, yet only a 30-minute train ride away from the big and bustling City of Brotherly Love, Villanova’s location provides its students with the best of both worlds. Villanova serves those who want to be near a major city and still have a campus lawn to spend beautiful days playing Spikeball on.

Now that you’re here it’s easy to fall prey to the “Campus Bubble,” the phenomenon that leaves students feeling shocked at the end of the semester, realizing they only left campus a handful of times. If one of the reasons you came here was the location, make sure you use it to your fullest advantage. If you didn’t, Philadelphia’s incredible restaurants, museums, shows and events are only an added bonus for you. Not sure where to begin? Here are some of my recommendations.

Philadelphia is called the birthplace of America for a reason, and this list wouldn’t be complete without a nod to the numerous historical landmarks Philadelphia has. In addition to the Independence Hall and Liberty Bell, Philadelphia is also home to the Betsy Ross House (where the first American flag was created), The Museum of the American Revolution and Elfreth’s Alley, the oldest continually occupied residential street in America.

Philadelphia is also home to a number of world-class museums, the most famous being the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Make sure to take a trip here – if not to see the famous works of Picasso and Monet, then at least to get a video of you running up the famous “Rocky” steps. Art enthusiasts will also love Philadelphia’s “First Fridays,” where more than 40 art galleries across the city stay open Courtesy of Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest late, have live music and serve refreshments at their galleries on the first Friday of every month. If art isn’t really your thing, give a chance to The Franklin Institute, a science museum that will be hosting the world premiere of “Harry Potter: The Exhibition” in 2022.

For those kindly trying to suppress a yawn at the thought of historical sites and museums, don’t worry – there are plenty of more exciting things to do in Philly as well. For those who can’t get enough of the Wildcats at Villanova, try checking out the local sports teams: watch the Philadelphia 76ers dominate at the Wells Fargo Center, enjoy a Phillies game at Citizens Bank Park, or cheer on the Eagles at Lincoln Financial, more commonly called The Linc.

LO VE

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DELPHIA

AM OR

By Sarah Sweeney

If each year you find yourself more excited about the Grammys than the NBA Playoffs, there is also an amazing music scene in Philadelphia. Philly is home to Jay-Z’s Made In America music festival, which will happen early this September and have a host of artists, ranging from Justin Bieber to Lil Baby. Other artists having concerts in the city this fall include Harry Styles, Lil Tjay, and Dan + Shay. In addition to getting to hear great music live, you’ll also have the chance to experience some of Philadelphia’s coolest music venues, from Union Transfer to The Fillmore.

Courtesy of Major League Baseball

While in the city, make sure to check out some of the amazing cuisine Philadelphia offers. Famous for its Philly Cheesesteaks, your first semester won’t be complete without a trip to either Pat’s or Geno’s – if you want the full experience, try both and add a vote to the ever contentious argument over which is better. Or, better yet, head to Roxborough to eat a steak at Dalessandro’s. If endless cheesesteaks won’t satisfy you, there’s a countless number of great restaurants with all different kinds of cuisine, from sushi at Nunu in Fishtown to Mexican at El Ranchero Viejo near Penn’s Landing. For those looking to get the most bang for their buck, make sure to keep your eyes posted for Philly’s next “Restaurant Week,” when more than 120 restaurants in Center City offer $20 lunch and $35 3-course dinner specials.

If you need to take a walk after all that delicious food, look no further than Penn’s Landing, which provides a scenic walk along the Delaware River and is constantly bustling with new things to do – from pop-up shops to an ice-skating rink in the winter. Looking for something a little more unusual? Try a leisurely stroll through Shofuso Japanese House and Garden, a beautiful traditional Japanese garden in West Fairmount Park, or Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens, an outdoor mosaic labyrinth. Want to get a great view of the city at the same time? Check out Cira Green or Rail Park.

Interested in some shopping? There’s nowhere better than Rittenhouse Row, a retail corridor conveniently located in Center City, ty with any store you could imagine, from Urban Outfitters to Rag and niversi U a v o n Bone and local boutiques. My personal favorite place to shop? One of of Villa ourtesy C Philly’s many great thrift shops, like Buffalo Exchange and Circle Thrift.

Despite boasting an impressive and happening downtown, Philadelphia has always been considered a city of neighborhoods, each with an interesting and unique vibe. From the Victorian townhouse-lined Chestnut Hill to UPenn’s open campus in University City, Philadelphia has everything you could want. Now it’s up to you to go and discover it.

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Courtesy of Center City District

Day Tripping Your Guide to The Best Places Near Campus

By Jack Roberge

If you’re willing to put in some extra effort and have a friend with a car who you can drag around, day trips can be one of the best pieces of your college experience. As an already nostalgic rising senior, I can honestly say some of my best memories from Villanova have been from day trips and planning day trips. So, where should you go? The possibilities are endless - just make sure you make friends with someone with a car.

One of the coolest places within a couple hours from Villanova is the Jim Thorpe area, just over an hour from campus. A small town situated in the Pocono Mountains, Jim Thorpe has a little bit of everything.

My personal favorite spot is Hawk Falls, located just north of the main town. After a brief hike, you’ll find yourself at the top of a waterfall with a deep lagoon at the bottom. The falls are a popular spot for a bit of cliff diving - just enough of a jump to excite your adventurous friends, and still short enough for those of us with a fear of heights to work ourselves up to after a little peer pressure. Jim Thorpe is home to numerous hiking and biking trails, so if you’re the outdoorsy type, I certainly recommend the trip.

A little closer to home, we have a number of quaint small towns that make for great day trips, date spots or just a nice walkabout. Chestnut Hill is a gorgeous downtown with lots of art galleries, restaurants, record shops and fashion boutiques. Technically located in Philadelphia, though certainly not urban, Chestnut Hill is a manageable 25 minute drive from Villanova. It is also home to Chestnut Hill College, which makes for a great spot to sit and read, journal or just hang out in a hammock for a while.

Slightly further away, and a bit more rural, is Saint Peter’s Village. Home to both a lovely small town and numerous hiking trails, St. Pete’s will have something for everyone in your friend group. The Saint Peter’s Bakery is a great place to stop and eat lunch while exploring the quarter-mile long street, and once you’re fueled up you can pick from a variety of hikes. My recommendation is a relatively unknown spot with no real name, but if you head toward 3100 St Peters Rd., you’ll find a little parking lot with a trail head. Taking this 3-5 mile hike will take you to a beautiful swimming hole, great for a picnic and a swim. Just be careful, there’s basically no cell reception out there.

Finally, as a proud plant dad, I’d be remiss if I didn’t tell you about Longwood Gardens and Morris Arboretum. Longwood Gardens is somewhat famous, and if you’re into nature or plants at all I’m sure you’ll hear plenty about it within your first year here. Not only is Longwood home to numerous plant species, a variety of examples of eco-friendly architecture and beautiful fountains, it also hosts a variety of seasonal shows. The best is easily during Christmas season, where Longwood has a massive display of poinsettias and Christmas trees indoors, and outdoors it has more than 500,000 lights and ongoing light shows within their fountains that dance to the Christmas music. Morris Arboretum is a University of Pennsylvania satellite campus that is a little less manicured than Longwood Gardens - but just as beautiful. Walking around the campus, you’ll be treated to fairy gardens, hedge mazes and more species of trees than you ever cared to know. Either of these two spots would make for a great day trip, and both are within a half hour of our campus.

I highly recommend getting out there and exploring once you’ve gotten acclimated to campus. Villanova is situated right in between rural and urban Pennsylvania, so regardless of what your preference is you have plenty of opportunity to take lots of day trips during your time here. If you don’t have a car, The Outdoors Club and CAT sponsor many trips off campus, so be on the lookout for any opportunity to get out into the surrounding area.

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How to Ride SEPTA

(like a Pro)

The New York Subway, The Chicago ‘L’, The London Tube, The New Jersey Transit… Wherever you’re from, I’m sure you’ve navigated it at least once via the train system. Now that you have found your new home on Villanova’s campus, you’ll find that the SEPTA (Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority) is the key to all your off campus explorations – from eating at amazing restaurants along the Main Line to going to exciting concerts in Philadelphia. Both reliable and affordable, the SEPTA is the best way to get around the area… that is, of course, given that you know ho use it. Let’s start with the basics:

Where are the nearest SEPTA stations?

Luckily for us, you don’t even have to leave campus to board the SEPTA – there are two stations right on Villanova’s campus.

The South Campus SEPTA station, which is located between the bridge from the church and the Wildcat Path leading there from South, is home to the Norristown High Speed Line (NHSL). The side closer to South Campus will bring you to Philadelphia’s 69th Street Transportation Center in only 20 minutes. From there you can easily transfer to the Market Frankfurt Line (MFL), which will bring you to a number of popular locations in the city – including 30th Street Station and Suburban Station. The side closer to Main Campus goes to Norristown.

The other on-campus SEPTA station is located on the border of Main Campus and West Campus. It’s impossible to miss – in fact, if you have any classes on West Campus this year, you’ll likely be crossing the train tracks via the underground tunnel every day. This SEPTA station is home to the Paoli-Thorndale Regional Rail, which will take you to center city Philadelphia (on the side closest to Main Campus) or to different towns along the Main Line (on the side closest to West Campus).

When do the trains run?

By Sarah Sweeney

What Station Do I Get Off?

Obviously this question depends on where you’re trying to go, and, as you become more familiar with the train system, can easily be found with a quick search of Google Maps. However, there are a few popular stations frequented by Villanova Students. Outside of Philadelphia, outdoor shopping center Suburban Square can be easily accessed by the Ardmore Station of the Regional Rail. In Philadelphia, 30th Street Station provides access to Amtrak and numerous other trains – it is also located right next to Cira Green, a popular rooftop hangout for Villanovans in the city. If you’re looking for food, shopping, or historical sightseeing, Suburban Station – located right by City Hall – is the place to go. The possibilities are endless.

Where can I buy tickets?

If you’re taking the NHSL from South Campus, tickets cost $2.50 and either can be paid with cash and coins as you board the train (much like a bus) or with the SEPTA Key Card. SEPTA Key Cards are very similar to New York City’s MetroCards and can be purchased from machines at stations downtown. Although they have an initial purchase price of $5.50, this money will be added back to your account if you register the Key Card online or on the app. They then can be loaded with money for tickets in advance. If you are switching to the MFL or a different line at 69th street, you will have to pay an additional $2.50 there.

If you’re taking the Regional Rail from West Campus, you will have to buy your tickets, which cost $7 each way, on the train, as there are no ticket machines at the station. Pro Tip: Make sure you have cash, as the conductors on the train don’t accept card. Coming back, however, you will need to purchase them from a machine in advance.

Along with all the pamphlets and Villanova merch you receive at orientation, you’ll also receive a paper copy of the train schedules. If you don’t trust yourself to hold onto this piece of paper, don’t worry – there’s a super convenient SEPTA app, which will tell you the train schedules in real time. All you have to do is enter your starting and ending stations and it will tell you when the next train is coming. I highly recommend downloading it.

As a general reference, though, the trains on West Campus usually run around the same time every hour, while the trains on South Campus run about every 20 or so minutes.

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MAIN LINE EATS VILLANOVANS LOVE TO EAT.

Lucky for us, the Main Line offers up some incredible restaurants, many even within walking distance from campus. From brunch to dinner to dessert, these spots are well worth the trip. Your taste buds will thank you.

Let’s start with brunch. In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic cancelling basically everything ever last year, there was one shining constant that remained, rising above the ashes: brunch. Villanovans have been loving brunch this past year.

First, a Villanova staple: FIRST WATCH. First Watch is located right down the street at 775 E Lancaster Ave #140, just past CampCo, so it is within perfect walking distance. It offers health-minded options, from avocado toast to omelettes and fresh fruit, as well as a fan favorite “million dollar bacon.”

TURNING POINT is walkable, located in Bryn Mawr at the intersection of Lancaster and Merion Ave, near the popular Villas at Bryn Mawr apartment complex (commonly known to Villanovans as “Home Props”). Turning Point rarely has a wait, thanks to its ample seating, and its extensive menu offers a range of options, from sweet cinnamon roll pancakes to savory egg, meat and veggie skillets. Turning Point is affordable, casual and perfect for a lazy Sunday trip down Lancaster.

THE SILVERSPOON: Located in Wayne, across the street from the indoor farmer’s market at 503 W Lancaster Ave, Silverspoon is a BYOB restaurant, offering contemporary American cuisine with an airy atmosphere. Its large, aesthetic outdoor patio is perfect for brunch, lunch or dinner on a warm day. Menu options include silver dollar pancakes, a delicious eggs benedict, truffle fries and so much more. Silverspoon is a 10 minute drive or Uber down Lancaster Avenue, and it is surrounded by 74 | The Villanovan

cute shops to explore if there happens to be a wait.

WHITE DOG CAFE: With two different close locations in both Wayne and Haverford, brunch at White Dog is a weekend staple for Villanovans. Serving brunch, lunch and dinner, White Dog offers extensive indoor seating, an outdoor patio as well as a large, heated outdoor tent for the days when there is a chill in the air. It makes you feel fancy with multiple courses, including delicious appetizers of hummus, truffle fries and more and main course offerings of endless omelets, eggs benedict, a house waffle and even the fresh mini donuts that can be dipped in a special sugar sauce. To top it all off, bottomless mimosas, sangria or bloody Mary’s are served through 3 p.m. for students over 21 years old.

LA SCALA’S FIRE: Recently reviewed

by The Villanovan, La Scala’s Fire is a new restaurant located in Villanova Center, a five minute walk from campus. It offers a heated outdoor seating area consisting of many tables and couches, managed by a very friendly staff. Inside, the decor is amazing and perfect for photos. The restaurant is known for its wood fired pizzas and delicious shareable appetizers and is a perfect destination for an evening stroll at sunset. La Scala’s is fancy enough for a special occasion, date night or birthday dinner, but still affordable and easy to get to. Its ambiance is impeccable both inside and on the outdoor patio, and you won’t regret indulging in its incredible menu.

ENOTECA TREDICI: A chic wine bar with eclectic small plates, Enoteca Tredici is located just down Lancaster Ave in Bryn Mawr. It has a tented outdoor patio, perfect for a classy outdoor dinner with friends or special date night. Menu options include Mediterranean cuisine, flatbreads, pasta, burgers, steak and much more. Another walkable option, Enoteca is a great choice for a warm night.

AZIE ON MAIN: Restaurants on

the Main Line are known for being classy and high quality, so Azie on Main fits right in. The restaurant is right down the street from Villanova’s campus, which is an ideal location for students. Azie offers Japanese food with a contemporary twist, and the ambiance of the outdoor seating is welcoming, along with the atmosphere indoors. It offers an extensive sushi menu as well as tons of options for non-sushi lovers, like chicken and steak dishes, dumplings, calamari, incredible fried rice and so much more. The spot also has private rooms that can be reserved for special occasions, along with private booths for smaller parties.

GULIFTY’S: This casual bar and restaurant is right down Lancaster, a short walk or extremely quick drive from campus, and has been a main line tradition for Nova Nation since 1975. It offers a broad selection of craft brews, plus burgers, pizzas and pub classics. Its chicken sandwiches are a particular fan favorite, and the sweet potato fries are to die for. Gullifty’s boasts tons of seating, both indoors if you want to catch a game on one of their many TVs, or outdoors on its expansive patio.

SNAP CUSTOM PIZZA: A Villanova staple, Snap offers custom-made artisan pizza or salad made in under two minutes with your choice of fresh, in-season toppings. Snap is perfect for a quick, delicious dinner with friends, as it is right down Lancaster in Bryn Mawr, within walking distance from campus. No matter how packed with hungry Villanovans it is, Snap’s speedy service never falters, and you will not be disappointed by the quality of the food.

By Julia Stanisci

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V FOR VILLANOVA V FOR VICTORY B FOR BLUE AND W FOR WHITE FOR THE BLUE AND THE WHITE WE WILL FIGHT, FIGHT, FIGHT, FIGHT FOR VILLANOVA! FIGHT FOR VICTORY!