TRACKING THE HISTORY OF THE FORMER PROVOST OF UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA
On May 28, 2025, University of California (UC) President Michael V. Drake, M.D., announced the selection of S. Jack Hu as the next chancellor of the University of California, Riverside (UCR), following approval by the UC Board of Regents. Hu, who will assume the role on July 15, currently serves as Provost and Senior Vice Presiat the University of Georgia (UGA). Hu brings nearly 40 years of higher education experience, beginning his academic journey as a graduate student at the University of Michigan in 1985 and eventually becoming its Vice President for Research.
During his tenure at UGA, since 2019, Hu has led major academic initiatives, expanded interdisciplinary faculty hiring and increased research expenditures, which surpassed $620 million in 2024. Under his leadership, the university consistently ranked among the top U.S. institutions for research commercialization.
His strategic focus areas included electric mobility,
Tartan Tailgating: The
precision agriculture, artihumanities, resulting in the establishment of several interdisciplinary centers. He also founded the Humanities Council and helped sponsor the Spotlight on the Arts Festival.
During his term as Provost, the University of Georgia (UGA) campus police forcibly arrested 16 protesters, including nine students, during a pro-Palestine encampment on campus which took place on April 29, 2024. Earlier that morning, the university’s
Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) chapter, along with community members from Athens, GA, set up the encampment on the North Campus Quad near the administration building.
team
This past Friday on May 30, 2025, the Los Angeles Aviators of the Ultimate Frisbee Association (UFA) hosted the Houston Havoc at the Championship Soccer Sta-pointing 2024 season, it has been more of the same for the Aviators in 2025. They’ve straight losses, but Friday’s home game against the 1-3
Havoc presented a great opportunity to earn a win.
Before the game, the Aviators celebrated Women’s Sports Night with the Los Angeles Astra of the Premier Ultimate League (PUL), a national women’s and non-binary ultimate frisbee league.
Astra’s captains, shared what Women’s Sports Night meant to her team, “[Women] didn’t have a league [to play in] for UFA. So it’s really special to
have a pro team in Los Angeles, and then to have the support of the Los Angeles Aviators as well. To just increase the visibility and show that women and non-binary folks really awesome to be here to celebrate that all together.”
Aviators assistant coach Skipper Hammond described how meaningful the night was to her, “Nights like tonight where we’re showcasing women’s ultimate [and] women in sports, is really
boys who are here. They left because it’s their bedtime, them to see a female coaching, especially a female coaching a men’s team.”
After the celebrations, the Aviators pulled the disc to the Havoc to get the game underway. Both teams started hot
On May 27, 2025, the University of California, Riverside’s (UCR) LGBT Resource Center held a remembrance event in honor of Tranquil Calley, a former UCR student who founded a fund in her son’s name to assist UCR students who lost family support due to their involvement and support of the LGBTQ+ community. Calley, who received her M.A. in 1989, passed away earlier in the month, but was known for her creation of the Kalyn SmithTranquil’son Memorial Fund.
Current UCR student, Suraj Ganiger, a second year biology major, was volunteering in hospice with Calley during her last days. He, along with support from the LGBT Resource Center, worked to organize the event to share stories of Calley and her son, as well as write notes and create artwork to be shared with her family. -
noticed about humans or people in general, is that we’re not really a kind species. We’re a mean bunch, and we often hurt each other, and we’re so in over our heads and yet so proud of ourselves, so much so that we named being kind, or the act of kindness,
Tranquil is possibly one of the few people to whom this does not apply of humanity with a guiltless face.” He recalls her vibrant and stubborn spirit, emphasizing that she iscially for those who have been left out or pushed aside from history.
is what Tranquil understood best, not just the word community itself, but the action that is associated with it, the muscle that it takes to build something that lasts for other people.
Aryav Agarwal (he/him), Business Economics, Second Year
CONTACT US THE HIGHLANDER 101 Highlander Union Building Riverside, CA 92521 www.highlandernews.org editorinchief@highlandernews.org
TIP LINE: (951) 827-2105
Help the Highlander stay on top of what is happening on campus and in the general UCR community. Call this number and leave a message for the Editorial Board with your tip. Be sure to include your full name, relation to UCR, and a number or email address where you can be reached for more details.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
The Highlander accepts letters from the campus community. They must be 600-800 words at length and include the author’s name and contact information. Topics should be UCR-centric and/or pertain to our generation of students. Contact Opinions Editor Cecile Dirollat opinions@highlandernews.org by Wednesday if interested in writing a letter and submit the completed letter by Saturday at noon. Letters can and will be rejected if it does not meet requirements.
Volume 73, Issue 29, Published on May 26, 2025.
The Highlander recognizes its ethical responsibility to maintain transparency in its coverage and promptly correct any issues published, large or small.
Located on page 5, the News article “R’Bus planning process” by News Editor Sanjana Thatte mistakenly reported that “R’Bus an initiative started with College of Natural and Agricultural Sciences (CNAS) Senator Vinisha Lalli and former Bourns College of Engineering (BCOE) Senators Anajana Narasimhan and Amariah Peedikayil, aims to provide students with safe late-night transportation back to their residences.” A correction has been issued to clarify that former Senators Narasimhan and Peedikayil did not start the initiative in collaboration with Senator Lalli, but rather that they inspired its creation during a BCOE Town Hall. Our online version of the Issue has all updated corrections and can be viewed at https://issuu.com/ucrhighlander.
LEGAL
The Highlander is published and copyrighted by the Highlander for the students, faculty and staff of UCR. All rights are reserved. Reprinting of any material in this publication without the written permission of the Highlander is strictly prohibited. Readers are allowed one free copy of the newspaper. For additional copies or for subscription information, please contact the Highlander. The Highlander fully supports the University of California’s policy on nondiscrimination. The student media reserve the right to reject or modify advertising whose content discriminates on the basis of ancestry, color, national origin, race, religion, disability, age, sex or sexual orientation. The Highlander has a media grievance procedure for resolving complaints against it. All inserts that are printed in the Highlander are independently paid publications and do not reflect the views of the Editorial Board, the staff or The University of California or the Associated Students of UCR.
In remembrance of Tranquil Calley
THE ACT OF KINDNESS LIVES ON THROUGH THE KALYN SMITH-TRANQUIL’SON MEMORIAL FUND.
MATA ELANGOVAN
On May 27, 2025, the University of California, Riverside’s (UCR) LGBT Resource Center held a remembrance event in honor of Tranquil Calley, a former UCR student who founded a fund in her son’s name to assist UCR students who lost family support due to their involvement and support of the LGBTQ+ community. Calley, who received her M.A. in 1989, passed away earlier in the month, but was known for her creation of the Kalyn Smith-Tranquil’son Memorial Fund.
Current UCR student, Suraj Ganiger, a second year biology major, was volunteering in hospice with Calley during her last days. He, along with support from the LGBT Resource Center, worked to organize the event to share stories of Calley and her son, as well as write notes and create artwork to be shared with her family.
noticed about humans or people in general, is that we’re not really a kind species. We’re a mean bunch, and we often hurt each other, and we’re so in over our heads and yet so proud of ourselves, so much so that we named being kind, or the act of kindness, ‘humanity’
possibly one of the few people to whom this does not apply to. She’s humanity with a guiltless face.”
He recalls her vibrant and stubborn spirit, emphasizing that
especially for those who have been left out or pushed aside from history.
think, is what Tranquil understood best, not just the word community itself, but the action that is associated with it, the muscle that it takes to build something that lasts
often teaches us to look at ourselves
and looked squarely in the eyes of LGBTQ students, who needed to know that they mattered and needed to know they had a future and that someone had believed in them.”
Nancy Jean Tubbs, director of the LGBT Resource Center, met Calley in the early 2000’s when she had set up the fund. Tubbs explains, for a fund to become endowed, it needs to reach $25,000, and Calley had set up the fund to be endowed with the money from her will. However, since she didn’t want to wait for her death to pass, as Calley planned to “live a really long time,” various
When Queer Alliance started doing Dragalicious Drag Ball, they would make money from selling tickets and donate all proceedings to the fund. Tubbs recalls how various members of administration would take part in the event, such as former Director of Housing Andy Plumley who she labels as “a raging, raging heterosexual man,” and “the person who loved him the most doing drag was his wife.” Through various
reached the $25,000 needed to endow the fund.
The Kalyn Smith-Tranquil’son Memorial Fund was established in remembrance of Kalyn SmithTranquil’son, Calley’s son, who in 1994. Kalyn Smith-Tranquil’son, known as Colin Smith during his time at UCR before changing his name to honor his mother, was a victim of a hate crime on campus in 1981. Reports from The Highlander from its March 19, 1981 publication share that Smith Tranquil’son and another student were assaulted by baseball players. Taking a stand, Smith Tranquil’son met with administration multiple times and became an activist for gay rights on campus.
Tubbs remembers Calley fondly.
“She was very much a hell raiser. Fiery, outspoken, spoke her mind,” she recalls. Calley was a member of the Board of Directors of the Alumni Association, and she had spoken at the Lavender Celebration a few years back. Tubbs shares a moment
to the place where her son had been beaten up in the parking lot, and
attention? Screw them. Look where
The fund has gone out in support of many students at UCR over the years it has existed. Tubbs recalls how there were “some pretty dramatic moments of students who were homeless” who were able to get assistance through the fund. The fund now exists as “an emergency funding source for UCR students in good standing
from their families because of their sexual orientation, gender, perceived orientation or gender, or work with the LGBT community.”
Rather, they are encouraged to donate to the fund when they are able, and keep the positive impact going.”
H
MATA ELANGOVAN/ THE HIGHLANDER
Announcements on the new UCR Chancellor and campus coffee shops
THE NINTH ASUCR MEETING OF SPRING QUARTER.
The ninth Associated Students of the University of California, Riverside (ASUCR) meeting took place Wednesday, May 28, 2025, and covered topics ranging from the hiring of the new UCR Chancellor to various pieces of legislation p.m.
During the roll call it was announced that College of Humanities & Social Sciences (CHASS) withdrew from their positions in the Senate.
ASUCR President, Abby Choy, took to the podium during public forum to provide several updates regarding campus as well as the organization. President Choy has been sitting in committee to pick the new chancellor, and shared her the University of Georgia. He was a provost over some new things from social media.” She shared that in his past commitments, he has shown to have a good track record with student programs, and that it was something she was impressed by. Wrapping up her announcement on the new
Starbucks contract with the university ending, the
the School of Business cafe. However, President Choy also shared that “Starbucks will be extending their contract for one more year at Glen Mor,
brands that wanted to take over that spot.”
19 pieces of legislation were brought forth from the Legislative Review Committee (LRC). All the legislation was voted and approved by the Senate.
One Senate Bill proposed amendments to the elections code. According to the bill, it seeks to “create new and edit current bylaws to match ongoing policy changes as well as introduce new adopted systems,” expand executive candidate eligibility for transfer students, reduced the Executive Cabinet (ECAB) requirement for experience in ASUCR and removed the requirement of having candidates submit their campaigning materials to the Elections Committee for approval.
Furthermore, the bill aimed to include “Campaign Manager and the Endorsement Process bylaws” as “These systems have not been implemented in the code but have been in practice recently.” Finally, other minor edits included “a distance cap from candidates campaigning near deleting the Elections Committee from the Elections Code.”
Another Senate Bill proposed amendments to the bylaws of the Executive Vice President. The bill states, “Due to the potential ASUCR Week
has for future years, it would be best to leave the event under the Executive Vice President bylaws, as they do similar events like Open House.”
were made through another bill proposed by the LRC. Proposing changes to the Chapter XXXV of the bylaws, it states, “With so many large scale events being held by ASUCR, it is becoming a
has led to many collaborations with the senate internship and executive fellowship program to there has been discussions of permanently includprocess of these major events.”
ing events held in collaboration across ASUCR, with events including but not limited to ASUCR week and the Senior BBQ.”
Finally, during Finance Meeting Minutes, the year. During this time they allocated a budget for each of their departments.
CHASS Senator Carter Anderson was excused and CHASS Senator Karen Vo was absent. Bourns College of Engineering Senator Uma Akundi was School of Public Policy Senator Ree Hirmiz was
MATA ELANGOVAN
SANJANA THATTE / THE HIGHLANDER
Jack Hu appointed new chancellor of UCR
TRACKING THE HISTORY OF THE FORMER PROVOST OF UGA.
On May 28, 2025, University of California (UC) President Michael V. Drake, M.D., announced the selection of S. Jack Hu as the next chancellor of the University of California, Riverside (UCR), following approval by the UC Board of Regents. Hu, who will assume the role on July 15, currently serves as Provost and the University of Georgia (UGA). Hu brings nearly 40 years of higher education experience, beginning his academic journey as a graduate student at the University of Michigan in 1985 and eventually becoming its Vice President for Research.
JOSE DEL ANGEL H
During his tenure at UGA, since 2019, Hu has led major academic initiatives, expanded interdisciplinary faculty hiring and increased research expenditures, which surpassed $620 million in 2024. Under his leadership, the university consistently ranked among the top U.S. institutions for research commercialization. His strategic focus areas included electric -
establishment of several interdisciplinary centers. He also founded the Humanities Council and helped sponsor the Spotlight on the Arts Festival.
During his term as Provost, the University of Georgia (UGA) campus police forcibly arrested 16 protesters, including nine students, during a pro-Palestine encampment on campus which took place on April 29, 2024. Earlier that morning, the university’s Students for
Justice in Palestine (SJP) chapter, along with community members from Athens, GA, set up the encampment on the North Campus Quad near the administration building. Hu alongside -
dent signed a statement declaring that “These individuals chose to be arrested, and they chose to resist arrest. They are all adults, and they consciously made these unfortunate decisions…but actions have consequences.”
Hu emphasized student success, boosting graduate enrollment by over 20 percent, contributing to a six-year graduation rate exceeding 90 percent, a benchmark achieved by only nine United States public universities. He also fostered university engagement with rural communities, launching the Rural Engagement Workshop for Academic Faculty, which led to $12.5 million in grant funding and national recognition. Previously, at the University of Michigan, Hu managed a $1.5 billion research enterprise and spearheaded “MCity,” a public-private initiative focused on connected and automated vehicle innovation.
Hu is a renowned research engineer, recognized for work on manufacturing system quality and productivity. He has received $46 million in external funding and numerous prestigious awards, including from the American Society of Mechanical Engineers and the So-
was appointed to President Obama’s Advanced Manufacturing Partnership, and is currently a member of the National Academy of Engineering and a fellow of four professional societies.
Born in the Hunan Province in China, Hu earned his bachelor’s from Tianjin University and completed his master’s and Ph.D. in mechanical engineering at the University of Michigan. Hu will succeed Chancellor Kim A. Wilcox, who retires after 11 years of service. Under Wilcox, UCR launched schools of medicine and public policy, increased enrollment by over 25 percent and achieved membership in the prestigious Association of American Universities in 2023.
President Drake praised Hu’s visionary leadership, collaborative spirit and dedication to academic excellence and community engagement. Drake noted Hu’s ability to propel UCR forward, while Wilcox called Hu a thoughtful leader with the capacity to translate vision into action.
UC Riverside 2025 Commencement
PREPARES FOR ITS 71 COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY.
The academic year is nearing its end and the University of California, Riverside (UCR) has prepared for its 71st Commencement ceremony. The Class of 2025 Commencement ceremonies will take place over several days in June and will be held at two main venues, the Student Recreation Center (SRC) at UCR and the Toyota Arena in Ontario. The ceremonies have been organized by academic program and degree level.
The undergraduate commencement ceremony will be held at the Toyota Arena and will include the reading of undergraduate names and the conferral of degrees. The masters and doctoral ceremonies will take place at the SRC, where degrees will also be presented to the graduates. All ceremonies will have speeches delivered by commencement speakers and program directors. The university has not yet announced who the speakers will be, and will release the information closer to the date of the ceremonies.
number of graduates for Spring 2025. How-
ever, in Fall 2025, UCR reported a 23 percent increase in applicants, suggesting a continued upward trend in enrollment and graduation rates.
UCR graduates are required to wear academic regalia appropriate to their degree level. Caps, gowns, tassels, hoods and stoles are available for purchase at the university book-
store. Graduates are permitted to decorate and customize their caps and stoles as they please. As the event approaches, students and guests are encouraged to review the event guidelines on the Toyota Arena website as well as the UCR commencement website.
COURTESY OF CHAD OSBURN
UCR
SARAH TABEL
COURTESY OF UCR
Health is wealth: why preventive care is the smartest financial move
NEWSOM’S PROPOSED HEALTHCARE CUTS COULD LEAVE CALIFORNIANS WAITING FOR HEALTH CRISES THAT COST THOUSANDS.
SHIVAM PATEL
In May 2025, California Governor Gavin Newsom proposed a budget billion. One of the proposals includes cutting spending on Medi-Cal, the phased out healthcare program for undocumented immigrants. In Newsom’s proposition, he intends to cancel enrollment for new
assessed monthly premiums in 2029. While these cuts may balance future budgets, the increased expenses waiting for treatment among California patients will far exceed costs if they cannot access preventive care.
The United States (U.S.) is the largest spender on healthcare in the trillion allocated in 2023. Despite heavy investment in healthcare programs, chronic diseases
percent of adults, including heart disease and cancer. With preventive early care, which emphasizes being proactive and receiving regular health screenings that provide lifestyle counseling and early detection, many chronic diseases can be managed more effectively or prevented.
When diseases remain undiagnosed, it may lead to the growth of the illnesses, causing patients to rely on costly emergency medical services, such as emergency room visits, to address the health issue. In addition, the maturation of a disease can contribute to straining health issues or even fatality. Such practices have been proven chronic health by catching diseases earlier, lowering emergency care costs and improving workforce productivity.
Routine doctor visits can detect medical problems before they become costly emergencies. Early disease detection can prevent
chronic disease patient. The savings don’t only consist of medical bills, but also of missed workdays and drug expenses. The later in life that the diagnosis is made, the more
severe the physical consequences and the greater the healthcare costs, such as in cases of untreated heart disease. Governor Newsom’s new strategy of reducing access to healthcare to address an estimated
exacerbate the problem, as losing non-urgent coverage will likely result in more late-stage diagnoses and higher long-term costs to the state.
Preventive care is necessary to reduce expensive emergency care.
of emergency room visits can be addressed as effectively in a doctor’s clinic or an urgent care center. If patients didn’t manage health
billion could be saved annually. This consists of unnecessary tests and procedures, along with lower facility fees.
Due to the many obstacles in accessing affordable healthcare and prompt treatment, many people use emergency rooms for nonlife-threatening illnesses. In 2023, more than 28 percent of U.S. adults delayed or gave up on receiving medical care. This is a deeply concerning statistic that sheds light on how barriers of cost and access are still driving many Americans away from vital preventive services.
Put simply, one of the major reasons people do not seek preventative care is because of the
Journal of Health Care for the Poor
of respondents postponed or avoided treatment because of cost. Financial hardship was found to be a major motivator for people to postpone or forgo both preventative and nonpreventive treatment. This shows how even insured people that stop them from getting regular preventive care.
Regular check-ups and managing chronic diseases at a stable state and vaccinations can help keep an individual healthy and detect health problems early. Addressing
community health problems before they hit the emergency room or become expensive hospital cases is the most cost-effective option.
California has started several programs to improve access to preventive care. In 2023, the state launched an enhanced cost-sharing reduction program through Covered California, which reduces out-of-
barriers to accessing preventative services. The state must continue to support these healthcare services and programs that increase affordability through funding.
loss by helping individuals receive a stable income. A report by the Centers for Disease Control and
chronic diseases as the primary cause of healthcare costs, resulting
economic productivity in the U.S. Moreover, preventative care keeps employees at the workplace rather than in a hospital bed, allowing them to remain productive members of society and support the economy through their labor.
In addition, allowing employees to collect their full paycheck facilitates greater stability in their lives. Avoiding hospital visits enables wage earners to allocate their spending toward providing for their families, freeing them of a by using preventive care, families and friends are kept with their loved ones, without the distance
that comes with hospitalizations. Newsom’s proposal to slash funding for healthcare could create more distance, as increased hospitalizations may result from fewer people being able to afford the preventive care that keeps them out of hospitals.
In a world where maintaining one’s health is becoming increasingly expensive, preventive care serves both as a health measure and an economic remedy. The data shows that early detection of disease
Preventive care is an essential intervention to halt treatable conditions from developing into chronic emergencies and cut health expenses down the line.
Considering these advantages, Governor Newsom should invest in expanding access to state healthcare programs rather than cutting them. Investments that would save long-term expenses by lowering the necessity of emergency interventions and keeping
By intervening early, fewer people are forced through hospital earning potential without the
come from emergency care and harsh chronic diseases. Overall, the phrase “health is wealth” is a mantra worth spreading in today’s world.
Contributing Writer
ADELIA URENA / THE HIGHLANDER
California schools are in crisis, and cuts are not the answer
CALIFORNIA’S PUBLIC SCHOOLS ARE FACING MORE THAN A DROP IN ENROLLMENT, AND THE STATE MUST ACT NOW OR RISK ABANDONING THE FUTURE OF ITS MOST VULNERABLE CHILDREN.
California’s public schools are facing a crisis that runs deeper than just numbers. For the seventh year in a row, enrollment has declined. This year, there are
percent difference that shows fewer kids are entering the educational system than graduating out of it.
At the same time, the number of students living in poverty or without stable housing is rising fast. Today, poverty. Homelessness among students just jumped nine percent in a single year.
In response to this crisis, school districts are downsizing, cutting staff, shutting down schools and trimming programs. This is not a viable solution to the declining enrollment and the increase in poverty and homelessness among California’s students. It is a surrender, and the ones paying the price are the students who need the most support.
would ease the burden on schools. With fewer students to teach and fewer classrooms to manage, this solution seems like it would be easier to handle. But, in reality, fewer students does not mean fewer needs, especially when more and more of those students are struggling
Downsizing means fewer resources available to meet growing challenges, not less demand for them.
what is most essential for low-income and unhoused students: tutoring, afterschool programs, mental health counselors and food assistance. These forms of support
Meanwhile, teachers are being stretched thinner than ever. Larger class sizes, fewer aides and no breathing room for burnout are becoming increasingly common. Downsizing as a response to low enrollment is a setup for failure, not just for teachers, but for the students they’re trying to reach. This information was recorded even before the second Trump administration and
proposed cuts to public services and funding to various programs. Not to mention, the gutting of the Department
of Education is certain to have a disastrous impact on the public education system.
For marginalized communities that have long been underserved by public education, this is not just another hurdle. It is a gut punch that reinforces cycles of inequality. The massive gap between the number
appalling. Families are leaving the state because they cannot afford to stay. Teachers are leaving because they can not afford to teach. Entire communities are being
and by the sheer weight of trying to get by.
When schools close in already-struggling areas, it only makes life harder. Kids might have to travel farther, with fewer transportation options. Parents working multiple jobs lose one of the few stable parts
“Well, if fewer kids are graduating, will it not be easier
The answer is simply no. Sure, there are fewer applicants, and that could mean less competition. The children who make it through the downsized, underresourced school systems will not be as prepared. They
classes, college counselors, test prep or even a stable home environment to study in, which is already bad enough as it is for impoverished schools in California.
Meanwhile, students from wealthier schools, such as charter or private schools, who still have those resources,
Downsizing and overpacking these impoverished housing instability will further worsen the inequality gap in impoverished communities in accessing higher education, as these students will not receive the quality of education that should be available.
Admissions will not be about talent. They’ll be about who has access to the opportunities that support them in succeeding in an increasingly uneven K–12 system. That is why equity is necessary, not just equality.
Equality assumes every student starts from the same place, but equity recognizes that some kids are climbing uphill with a backpack full of bricks. It is not enough to the support to walk through them.
However, there’s at least one bright spot on the map. program in partnership with the San Bernardino City
teachers can get their tuition covered, a stipend and guaranteed job placement if they commit to working in the school district after they graduate.
It is exactly the kind of thinking that’s needed: not walking away from public education, but doubling down on it. Training good teachers, keeping them in local public schools and building an educational system that serves every child, not just the ones who can afford to thrive.
The conversation around downsizing needs to shift. This is not about making tough decisions in tough times. It is about whether the state is willing to give up on the kids who need support the most. California’s public schools are more than buildings or budgets. They’re communities, safe havens and places for kids with big dreams and few resources to achieve their goals. If the budget keeps being cut, schools will shrink alongside students’ futures. This is not just a numbers problem. It is a moral one. California must do better deciding whether to move or to make it work and for every teacher trying to hold it all together with too little support.
It’s time to reinvest in the education system, not retreat from it. Bailing out the sinking ship of public education by throwing the kids overboard is not the
Ask local school boards what they’re doing to support students, particularly low-income and homeless students. Push state leaders to fund schools based on student need, not just enrollment, and support teacher training programs like the one at UCR. But most of all, speak up because public education belongs to everyone,
H
LILIANNA ANGEL
PHOTO COURTESY OF PIXABAY
Take It or Leave It: Free to speak, not free from consequences
REACTIONS FROM THE PUBLIC CAN BE MORE POWERFUL THAN ANY LAW.
First Amendment guarantees your freedom of speech. This means that the government cannot arrest or prosecute you for expressing your views. However, this protection does not fully apply to private individuals or organizations. Employers, sponsors and members of the public are free to respond to your speech, which may result in job loss, loss of sponsorship or public disapproval. Recent events have demonstrated that free speech can have major effects on individuals who speak up, even if it does not violate any laws.
Post’s editorial page editor. Doris had run a political cartoon by Jeff Danziger depicting Israeli soldiers rescuing a captive while stepping over bodies
criticism of how the rescue of a hostage was being celebrated while the immense loss of Palestinian lives was being overlooked or minimized. Local Jewish groups strongly criticized the cartoon, calling it antisemitic.
that the caricature was intended to attack the war, not the Jewish people. However, the tremendous criticism that followed resulted in his suspension and eventual termination. Some may argue that this was an unfair judgment, but whether it was fair or not is not the key point. The crucial thing to remember is that people should not be surprised when they face consequences for their words, even if their speech is protected under the Constitution.
In the U.S., I have the right to speak freely because of the First Amendment. That means the government can’t arrest or punish me just for saying what I believe. However, I’ve learned that this protection doesn’t mean there are no consequences. While the government can’t silence me, those who are private employers, sponsors or even within the general public can still respond in ways that affect my life. I could lose my job, lose support or face strong criticism for what I say.
This dynamic can unintentionally silence some voices, especially those who hold unpopular or critical political views. People who are afraid of backlash, professional penalties or social ostracization may self-censor, or meaningful to contribute to the discourse.
RUBAITA IQBAL H
Nonetheless, Doris, as an editor, exercised his freedom of speech and freedom of the press when he published
a political cartoon that was critical of the war. While many found the cartoon upsetting, his expression was a part of an important political discussion and should be protected. His termination raises concerns about whether private companies respect freedom of the press and the limits of acceptable response to
This particular instance demonstrates how expressing contentious thoughts, even in a professional arena such as journalism, can have major implications. In today’s society, where individuals are alert to political and social issues, freedom of speech does not always imply freedom from criticism or professional consequences.
Semitic statements in interviews and on social media. In one case, he stated that he would go “death con 3 on Jewish phrase encouraging hatred.
In response to his social media comments, major brands such as Adidas and Balenciaga have dissolved their relationships with him. Kanye West’s major partnerships with Adidas included his hugely successful Yeezy sneaker and apparel line, as well as creative collaborations and appearances with the fashion brand Balenciaga. His social media accounts were likewise erased or restricted. Fans, media outlets and civil rights organizations condemned his actions. While Ye maintained that his opinions were protected by his right to free speech, the public and corporate worlds used their own rights to disassociate themselves.
Although his statement was legally allowed under the First Amendment, it was universally condemned as hate speech, which promotes prejudice or violence against others. Kanye West’s offensive words should have resulted in even worse consequences. When someone with such a large platform communicates dangerous and insulting beliefs, it can fuel discrimination and deepen societal divisions.
Free speech is crucial, but it does not protect speech that incites hatred or endangers the safety and dignity of others. Free speech is different from hate speech. Doris’s cartoon was meant to show a harsh truth about a war still happening. It was an opinion, even if it upset people. But Kanye West’s statements were hateful and spread harmful ideas. Hate speech like that can cause real harm and should not be protected in the same way.
Society stood up to his hate speech by condemning his words and revoking his commercial partnerships. This distinction is critical for understanding
how free speech works in practice and why not all speech is treated equally by the law or in public opinion.
If Kanye West suffers from personality disorders or other mental the appropriate education and medical attention he needs. Addressing these issues may help prevent destructive conduct in the future and promote his well-being while also holding him accountable for his actions.
However, the focus isn’t about who is right or wrong in this situation, though there is an answer. These examples show that freedom of speech protects you from the government, but not from real-life consequences. Saying something controversial, even if you feel it to be true or fair, can cost you your job, reputation or audience. This is not a violation of your rights but rather a normal component of how
a free society operates.
Talking about the suffering caused by a war is very different from spreading hate. When people criticize a government’s actions, it should not be confused with racism or antisemitism. Still, sometimes people may misunderstand what you are trying to say, and their reactions can affect your future in ways you might not expect. Many students have used their First Amendment rights to speak up about important issues, but these rights have been threatened more and more, especially under the second Trump administration. This makes it even more important to distinguish freedom of speech from hate speech. We need to protect honest and fair expression, but hateful rhetoric that causes harm should not be allowed under the name of free speech.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF PEXELS
NORM’S NOOK SPOTLIGHT
The Alumni and Visitors Center
nia’s (UCR) graduating seniors, it seems Alumni & Visitors Center. Located on Canyon Crest Drive, this building is used such as galas, banquets and receptions that can be hosted by anyone. The center is classy yet pleasant due to its veranda, outdoor patio and Arroyo garden. Thees to ensure an enjoyable catered experimeeting rooms are available for booking. College reunions usually take place here and the UCR Alumni Association often uses this venue for their own events with aims to connect alums with each other and with their alma mater for years after graduation.
QUESTION: What
STUDENT POLL
is your
favorite vacation spot?
Answer our weekly question on the Highlander Instagram for the opportunity to get featured in the next issue!
Either Tokyo, Japan or South Korea. Seychelles.
San Andrés, Colombia.
Palestine (let me go home).
Definitely Italy! It’s so scenic and so different from North America.
Giselle R.
Gabriela G. Mia O.
Senna O.
Sara O.
GRAPHICS BY LAYNA LAPIKAS / THE HIGHLANDER
VACATION SPOTS
25. File folder feature
Hurry up 30. Squatting in academia
Poetic tributes
Fortuneteller 39. Capital of Morocco
Pe____ ope
The blahs 43. Fancy-schmancy 44. City of K-pop 46. Headed for overtime 47. Make content 48. Production 50. Mouse manipulator
Black gunk 53. Part of a Clue accusa-
MAIN ST
57. City of golden temples
Crack at
Handy 66. Free from, with “of”
Manicurist’s board 69. Strongest tooth 70. Guns ___ Roses 71. Asparagus unit 72. Didn’t dillydally 73. What’s up? 74. City of sushi 1. ____ Springs, CA
BY SANJANA FEATURES
NA THATTE DITOR
2. Opera solo 3. ____ Bader Ginsberg 4. “Lunch atop a Skyscraper” location 5. Another Latin word for tailor
Pepsi’s rival
Friend or ___
ORANGE ST
_____ Hills, CA 9. Flavor of an alcoholic grape drink 10. Ciao but move one letter 11. Cookbook direction 15. Bummer
20. Cursor mover
24. Atomic number 75 25. The midsection of a human 27. Stupefy
31. Siestas
32. German sub
33. A member of a Jamaican religion 34. Early anesthetic
38. Regrets 42. Driver’s lic. or passport
45. Creep or Peeping Tom
51. Take back to the lab 54. Gumbo vegetables 56. Pace
57. Another word for butt
58. At the peak of 59. World’s longest river
60. Hefty competitor
61. Where one lives, casually speaking
62. Docile
63. Beseech
64. Pro’s opposite
67. Squid’s squirt H
COURTESY OF PXHERE
Scotty-Scopes:
Your finals week survival horoscope
(Sept. 23 – Oct. 22):
You’re built for the spotlight, and this week it’s well-earned. Your hard work minute to show. Walk into those exams half the grade.
Capricorn (Dec. 22 – Jan. 19):
fueled genius right now. Use it to start strong, try something new and tackle that intimidating assignment. Curiosity is your cheat code.
Aries (March 21 – April 19):
Scorpio (Oct. 23 – Nov. 21):
your favorite playlist, your old notes or even a nap in your usual spot. Nostalgia can be fuel. Use it to remind yourself how far you’ve come.
Aquarius (Jan. 20 – Feb. 18): Eight of
thing that’s not working—yes, even that come back with a clear mind. Sometimes a little space is all you need.
Taurus (April 20 – May 20): Three of Cups
You’re up against a lot, but you’re not backing down. Finals may throw some handle it. Keep your head high and yourper counts. Lean on your friends for support with a shared snack break. Just don’t let the group chat become a distraction.
Cancer (June 21 – July 22):
Take care of yourself like you’d take care of your favorite person. Finals are important, but so is hydration and eating something that isn’t a vending machine sandwich. You’ve got the care and strength to get through it.
Leo (July 23 – Aug. 22):
You’re the boss this week—handle your business. Finals are your stage, and you’ve prepared your lines. Just remember that a good leader rests too.
STRESS IS HIGH, SLEEP IS LOW AND THE TAROT HAS SOMETHING TO SAY.
(Nov. 22 – Dec. 21):
You’re carrying a lot, probably too much. from your to-do list. You’re not a machine, even if you’ve been studying like one.
Pisces (Feb. 19 – March 20):
Your creativity is deeper than you realize — tap into it. Finals week may be draining, but you’re drawing from a strong inner source. Trust the process and don’t be afraid to take a breath.
Gemini (May 21 – June 20):
Not every battle is worth winning— especially if it’s with your Wi-Fi or your lab partner. Pick your priorities and don’t secret weapon.
(Aug. 23 – Sept. 22):
You might be chained to your study routine, but don’t let stress call the shots. Step away from perfectionism, even just for 10 minutes. Freedom starts with closing that extra tab.
Libra
Six of Wands
Six of Cups
Sagittarius
Ten of Wands
Page of Wands
Cups
The Well
Seven of Wands
Five of Swords
Queen of Pentacles
King of Pentacles
Virgo
The Devil H
‘Hello World’ to help me: A survival guide for computer science
A HELPFUL GUIDE WITH TIPS AND ADVICE TO SURVIVE THROUGH COMPUTER SCIENCE.
So, you decided to major in computer science (CS),
Some are excited to learn more about coding or computers. For others it’s all about the expected salaries after graduation. Or maybe you know that one friend or family member who built a whole startup and is now working at Google. Whatever the reason may be, you’re here now, so buckle up. A CS degree can guide you to great things, however it isn’t a walk in the park. You’ll start with coding “Hello World,” then end up stressing about why your program won’t run all because of a single semicolon. This guide contains helpful tips and advice so you can survive through your four years in CS.
This might be the most important part of coding. You will need some sort of software to type your code in. What you will need is an integrated development enviand will provide you the necessary tools to become a great coder. You will save lots of time, stress and hardship by being able to edit, test and debug your code all in one place.
Now that you have your environment set up, it is highly recommended that you learn Git and GitHub.
cause this isn’t covered in any CS related classes you may take. However, when working in groups or out in use. A couple Google searches will help you know what it is, but being able to utilize them in your coding jour-
ture, you may be intimidated with the information that professors throw at you. With CS, everything builds up fundamentals is very important. These fundamentals mainly include data structures and algorithms. These concepts are important to be able to progress as a comyou in your classes but also in job interviews.
two or three classes, but once you start getting into things you will come across them, and know them like the back of your hand.
You’ve probably heard the wild misconception thattists. First of all, that’s not true, but we don’t need to get
prevent you from learning.
As a computer scientist, you have to understand that
your entire assignment so you can go and do something else. Not only is that cheating, but because you didn’t do your own work, you’re shortchanging yourself. You gain nothing from copy and pasting the entire code.
the code is doing, you wouldn’t have a clue. So through any of your CS classes, do your best not to use any sort savior, but it’s really your enemy.
This piece of advice applies to any college student, but especially for CS majors. With CS being one of the hardest majors, you will eventually need help. Occasionally, a programming assignment will have you sitcases where you need help, all you have to do is go and ask.
Professors and teaching assistants know that what’s taught in their class will challenge students, so they are prepared to help you. You probably aren’t the only one struggling on that problem or assignment, so instead of struggling on your own, seek assistance from others who can help guide you through your troubles.
classes won’t get you that tech summer internship orpress any recruiters when applying for jobs. All it shows is that you can do homework and know how to pass exams. You need to expose yourself to tech related opportunities outside the classroom. A small and simple way to do this is by joining CS clubs on campus. At the
many tech related clubs that are guaranteed to pique your interests. Find one that interests you and make sure to stay engaged so you can expand your current knowledge while also enjoying yourself.
Another useful way to learn outside the classroom is to build projects. Doing this will expose you to a wide range of technologies and help you grow as a CS major. This could be hardware or software related, whichever
learning outside of the classroom is you can do anything you enjoy and it can help you grow much faster than students who are only relying on their professors to teach them. Expand your knowledge, build something
Lastly, it’s important for you to go outside and take breaks. There is a common stereotype of CS majors being stuck to a computer screen and not spending time engaging in extracurricular activities. Sadly, this is true for some. There will be times where you will be working at your computer for an excessive amount of time. While you can’t completely prevent that from happencrucial to take small breaks so you don’t burn yourself out. Going for a walk, reading a book or even taking a
recommended, but in some cases, assignments can be especially if you’re in a very demanding major. College isn’t only about coding and studying 24/7—it’s about making meaningful memories and growing as a person. At the end of the day, grades aren’t as important as your can come afterwards. Hopefully with this guide you’ve
how to do well in CS. Remember, the journey you chose will be challenging, but with hard work and occasional breaks, you’ll shape yourself into a great computer scientist and will thank yourself later
DANIYAL AHMED
Juggling long-distance friendships
HOW TO STAY CONNECTED WITH COMPANIONS.
ANTHONY HERNANDEZ
You might pick up your phone to message a friend only to notice that it has been a whole month since you last interacted. Life can get busy. We move to new cities, start new jobs, dive into relationships or simply pursue our education in college. Before we know it, graduation sneaks up on us, reminding us how quickly time passes.
As we get older, it’s normal for our lives to take us in variof all that movement, longdistance relationships can gradually disappear as time passes. Not because they are less important, but because the coincidence of spontaneous meet-ups and casual check-ins disappears. Even the strongest bonds may feel challenged
without shared schedules or unexpected chats to hold them together.
However, being apart doesn’t have to mean being disconnected. With a little effort and creativity, long-distance friendships can continue to grow and sometimes even deepen. Whether you’re a state away or on the other side of the world, here are three meaningful tips to stay connected to the people who matter most, no matter how far you may be from one another.
Living close to someone naturally fosters connection, whether it’s going for a quick day or running into each other around the area. However, when distance enters the equation, those few interactions
between the two can eventually disappear. That is why long-distance friendships need intentional check-ins to keep
that it has to be a long conversation about catching up just be a simple message, a monthly video call, or even a sharing meme that can convey,
Small interactions like these empower the connection between the two of you and ignite the bond once more. Although scheduling regular conversations might seem too formal, it creates an opportunity for both of you to engage meaningfully. Without these touchpoints, it’s easy to lose track of time and go months without noticing that you haven’t spoken to each other. Just like that, the
Wafa Wonders: Fate, destiny and Sonic the Hedgehog
A COLUMN FOR THE
QUIETLY CONFUSED AND CASUALLY CURIOUS.
the occasional supernatural encounter. Fate is the hidden thread that tugs at moments to make them magical. So naturally,
sized Sonic the Hedgehog plush.
struck when all the dining halls were closed, my stash of instant noodles was accumulated health survey gift cards on DoorDash. With limited options left and a temptation to ravage my roommate’s side
Noods is the kind of place that was built for desperate moments like these. But as the night drags on, its line stretches until it swells into a mosh pit of ravenous already dragged my sleep-deprived suitemate along on this pilgrimage, promiswarm rice.
The inside of Noods was about as thrillorder, another to receive my bowl and achine magically stops working whenever leave, only to be intercepted by someone from the Chess Club. Fate, once again,
occur enjoying takeout on the couch in the living room or strolling through a familiar neighborhood.
nostalgic as it sounds, that’s exactly what makes it feel special. Nowadays, we are in the age of fast texts and voice notes where you can receive a quick text anywhere at any time. Yet, most have forgotten postcard or letter stands out. moment of your day to think about your friend in a more thoughtful, meaningful way. Whether it is a quick “thinking of you” postcard from your trip or a more extensive letter updating them about your life, these little surprises can be incredibly impactful.
small talk about Elo ratings and openings, name from the counter. Destiny gave me
With lukewarm drinks in hand and
it 10 feet before fate struck again. Two students were walking by, casually carrying a life-sized Sonic the Hedgehog plush.
My suitemate, less enthused, asked me to lower my voice. Too late. The Sonic-bearers had noticed me.
smiled. And then, as if the stars had me. Apparently, he was moments away from being abandoned by the dumpster to be feasted upon by University of Califor-
destiny.
Carrying Sonic back was a whole othheld the chaos emerald of attention. Now, Sonic lives in my dorm lounge. His past remains a mystery. Maybe he was cursed. during move-out.
Not only are you showing that appreciation you have towards them, but it lets the other know and realize how much they mean to you, not just as an individual, but as a close companion. They don’t have to be profound or serious; even a joke, a sketch or a funny memory jotted down on a notecard can foster a sense of connection. And unlike a text that gets lost in a chat thread, a letter has a lasting presence and is something your friend might revisit when they are missing you.
There’s something enchanting about seeing a long-distance friend after months, or even years, apart. The initial hug, the late-night conversations and the laughter overtalgia and novelty. These visits, no matter how infrequent they are, serve as powerful reminders of why the friendship matters. They transform your shared history into something active again, not merely memories, but fresh experiences that strengthen your bond.
Naturally, making these
With busy schedules, limited budgets and physical distance, it’s all too easy to push plans back again and again. However, deliberately setting
right away, start by aiming for a future date. Choose a time of the year that works for both of you, or plan around holidays and long weekends. You can even make it a tradition and alternate who hosts or picks a new city to discover every time you meet up. Ultimately, these visits emphasize presence rather than perfection. They reinforce the idea that distance doesn’t diminish closeness; it just reshapes how we experience it. A timely visit can breathe new life into your relationship and provide stories to cherish for when you are apart.
TRÀ BOBA & SNACK
SNACK AND SIP AWAY!
LENNY THAI
to TRÀ BOBA & SNACK in University sign board outside advertising drink combos.
chairs, comfy sofas and a quaint clientele of students studying on their laptop. A corner dedicated to games like Jenga, chess and Uno
$12.99. The best part about this combo is that
milk tea with no boba. My partner got the fries and drink combo for $10.99, choosing a cajun spice blend for the fries and a Thai milk tea with boba. As with many boba shops around campus, you can customize the sweetness and ice level of your drink, but we kept the drinks at the standard 100% for consistency.
took roughly 10 minutes. We killed time by playing a little Jenga and enjoying how soft after theirs, so we began consuming our spoils.
Fries and drink combo: $10.99
3 Taiyaki and drink combo: $12.99
This drink was refreshing and light with the subtle sweetness of a winter melon. The balanced by the creaminess of the milk. What not overwhelmed by the taste of dairy. The tea without being too overpowering.
All of the taiyaki featured an exterior that tasted like pancakes. Only the edges of the taiyaki were crispy and cooked to perfection, inside of the taiyaki was soft, though not exactly pillowy and the tail was chewy like a
melted Ferrero Rocher without the hazelnuts. Unfortunately, the strawberry taiyaki did not live up to the Nutella one. There were two honey-like texture that tasted faintly sweet.
it was still edible despite the chunky, bean-y mouth feel.
When the fries came out, they were unevenly cooked. Some were hot and crisp while others were limp and cold. As for the
the preparation. We had the option of pepper or cajun fries, so it is possible that we got pepper fries instead of what we ordered. The fries didn’t stand out to me at all and it was Ketchup saved what little integrity the fries in the future.
Overall, TRÀ BOBA & SNACK is a lovely place to mingle with friends or to study. While was done justice with my order, their drinks Village Plaza.
but tasted a little watered down. This may have been caused by the inclusion of ice in ice if you order this. The tapioca was the star of the show; perfectly chewy and warm with well the boba contrasted with the cold drink,
may in tar ith nk,
Winter Melon Green Tea
Thai Tea
Nutella Taiyaki
Strawberry Taiyaki
Red Bean Taiyaki
Cajun Fries
Graduation Getting Ready Playlist from highlights of the past decade
A DECADE WORTH OF MUSIC LEADING UP TO YOUR COMMENCEMENT — THE HYPE PLAYLIST YOU DIDN’T KNOW YOU NEEDED WHILE GETTING READY.
LILIANNA ANGEL Staff Writer
A Song for Each Year (2015-2025)
2015 – “Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars
2016 – “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” by Justin Timberlake
2021 – “drivers license” by Olivia Rodrigo
2017 – “HUMBLE.” by Kendrick Lamar
2022 – “As It Was” by Harry Styles
2018 – “High Hopes” by Panic! At the Disco
2023 – “Hot to Go!” by Chappell Roan
“Dog Days Are Over” – Florence + the Machine
2019 – “Bad guy” by Billie Eillish
2024 – “Espresso” by Sabrina Carpenter
To the Class of 2025...
2020 – “Blinding Lights” by The Weeknd
2025 – “Mystical Magical” by Benson Boone
world
Honorary Highlights – Forever Graduation Vibes
“Hey Look Ma, I Made It” – Panic! At the Disco
“Don’t Stop Me Now” – Queen
Wes Anderson’s ‘The Phoenician Scheme ’: A welcome return to form.
THE ECCENTRIC FILMMAKER HAS FORFEITED HIS USUAL ENSEMBLE CASTS AND NESTED-DOLL
STRUCTURES
FOR AN ACTION-ADVENTURE ROMP SUITABLE FOR ALL MOVIE-GOERS.
with his symmetrical framing and pastel color
categorized as part of the “New Sincerity movement” is just as sincere and earnest in his newest endeavor as he’s been since he began in 1996.
Over the last three decades, Wes Anderson has has also done collaborations and commercials with some say his style has become a brand in itself. like his style has only become more convoluted. Whereas something like “Rushmore,” his second through a single narrative in a single place in time, the narrative follows an ensemble cast in a series of stories within one another spanning decades.
For any fan of the Texas auteur, it has become increasingly hard to share his work with those not interested in his aesthetic compositions or vintage is a complete alienation to anybody concerned with the kind of typical narrative through-line associated with mainstream American cinema. Actors like Tom Hanks and Scarlett Johansson can be found in greatly from “Forrest Gump” or “Black Widow.”
What makes his reputation unique is the very fact that he is fundamentally an art-house director whose name and movies cross-over to the mainTikTok-trends, the internet is deeply fascinated
City” receiving mixed reviews, it seems like his cast of household names and recognizable style are not enough to keep general audiences entertained.
But here comes “The Phoenician Scheme.”
Gone are the story-within-a-story, nested-doll
follows a “5-percenter” business tycoon Zsa-Zsa Korda, played incredibly by Benicio Del Toro, as he and his nun daughter Liesl, played by Mia Threapleton, work to realize his decade-spanning project “The Phoenician Scheme,” while many attempt to end his company and life.
hand-grenades, basketball, the afterlife, doubleagents and so much more. Clocking in at just over
Critics of his work may continue to argue once the same ideas and camera moves he has been uti-
greatly in a lot of aspects from the majority of his
For one, though it may appear on the surface
cinematographer in Bruno Delbonnel - best known for his work on the French-hit “Amelie.” The lenses he uses and the way he lights scenes invokes a greater sense of heightened realism compared to the softer, more impressionistic work of his longtime cinematographer Robert Yeoman.
Additionally, though this does contain a score
by Alexandre Desplat; a constant he’s had since -
playlist of mid-20th century deep-cuts are not in use like his previous work but Stravinsky’s “The Nico or The Kinks may have been in “The Royal Tenenbaums” or “The Darjeeling Limited.”
with the simplicity and charm of his early hits.
Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar” and “Poison” in Benedict Cumberbatch returning and the use of dutch-angles.
That being said, the randomness and quirks of -
There will still be deadpan dialogue, Bill Murray, and symmetrical compositions. Just as one may recognize a Bjork track for her signature style of singing, Anderson’s idiosyncrasies are the root of Slight notions of orientalism are still as present in Darjeeling Limited.”
VERDICT:
With all of that in mind, it may just be the per-maker’s catalog.
AAKIF IQBAL
Bibi’s “EVE: ROMANCE” is a versatile K-R&B album with artful vocals and themes
“EVE: ROMANCE” IS AN ALBUM FILLED WITH MELODIC TRACKS ABOUT LOVERS, ELEVATED BY BIBI’S UNIQUE ARTISTIC TOUCH.
Verdict:
JOANNA SIMON Contributing Writer
“Creep”: a deeply unsettling obsession
A SATIRICAL THRILLER ON ENGLISH SOCIETY AND THE INSECURITIES OF BEING MIXED-RACE
*contains spoilers
Emma van Straaten is the debut novel about a woman named Alice, who’s obsessed over a man that she cleans for. Alice is simply a lonely woman who unintentionally stalks a man, observing his every movement while cleaning his house.
Van Straaten is a mixed English-Mauritian it feels like to grow up as a mixed woman in England: to feel alienated, yet growing up within a typical privileged middle-class English society. Her story mirrors the author’s own experiences as a mixed-race woman and the insecurities that come with it.
Alice is obsessed with threes, which the author
writing began to make explicit things I had only ever internalised: feelings of self-disgust that thinness and whiteness, together with the quiet
The novel’s darker elements will leave viewers unnerved with its eloquent writing style and descriptions. It makes you feel sick and nauseous reading the narrator’s thoughts. For example, Alice is so mentally sick with her obsession with Tom, the man she’s stalking, that she cleans the window and masturbates with his electric character, she pretends it’s Tom and not him. The narrator uses moments like these as a way to keep tabs on her obsession with Tom. The world feels isolated – almost like the
narrator feeds into her delusions. The narrator
She makes fun of those around her for being no interest in going to get drinks or engage in social activities with her friends.
Alice believes once Tom and her start
her cleaning job, she sees it as an opportunity for them to develop a personal relationship. She believes that Tom wants her and will eventually leave his girlfriend for her.
Verdict:
This debut novel is a fun thriller about obsession, self-hatred and loneliness. It is wellwritten and worth the read.
IRIS ARANDA
Tartan Tailgating: The Los Angeles Aviators are an ultimate frisbee team and community
THE LOS ANGELES AVIATORS COMPLETE IMPROBABLE COMEBACK AGAINST THE HOUSTON HAVOC ON WOMEN’S SPORTS NIGHT.
This past Friday on May 30, 2025, the Los Angeles Aviators of the Ultimate Frisbee Association (UFA) hosted the Houston Havoc a disappointing 2024 season, it has been more of the same for the Aviators in 2025. They’ve started home game against the 1-3 Havoc presented a great opportunity to earn a win.
Before the game, the Aviators celebrated Women’s Sports Night with the Los Angeles Astra of the Premier Ultimate League (PUL), a national women’s and non-binary ultimate frisbee league. AvaWomen’s Sports Night meant to her team, “[Women] didn’t have a league [to play in] for a long time.
pro team in Los Angeles, and then to have the support of the Los Angeles Aviators as well. To just increase the visibility and show that women and awesome to be here to celebrate that all together.”
Aviators assistant coach Skipper Hammond described how meaningful the night was to her, “Nights like tonight where we’re showcasing women’s ultimate [and] women in sports, is really im-
for them to see a female coaching, especially a female coaching a men’s team.”
After the celebrations, the Aviators pulled the disc to the Havoc to get the game underway. Both
into some trouble to start the second quarter as the Havoc broke them twice in a row to clutch a 9-8 lead going into halftime.
During the halftime break, the Aviators mascot looked to get the crowd rowdy to help the Aviators get back in the game. Riding on an electric unicycle, he threw mini frisbees into the stands with his
left hand while holding his young child in his right.
Under the leather jacket and pilot helmet is Tyler Kenny. Kenny mentioned how important the Aviators are to him and the rest of the ultimate frisbee
out here from the high desert. There’s folks out here from Orange County, Los Angeles [and] Santa Barbara. So it’s nice to see whenever the Aviators change where they’re playing, There’s just a huge
new crew that shows up and people fall in love with the team for a long time,” he shares.
Even with the crowd showing support for the Aviators, the Havoc stayed in control of the game, even extending their lead to 14-11 by the end of Aviators wouldn’t let the game get away from them.
defensive line stepped up and earned back-to-back breaks, including a “Callahan” from Mitchell Steiner, to bring the score level and force overtime.
Defensive cutter Eddie Finley explained how the Aviators got back in the game, “We noticed they had crafty throwers, but we had guys with better legs, more athleticism. So we were like, let’s stop
trying to outthink them and outwork them instead. And then once we played tighter, the turns started coming our way. We started getting layout blocks. We started to get a lot of [interceptions] and it started to turn around.”
but turned the disc almost immediately. For a minute, it appeared the comeback would fall just short. But the defensive line came up big once more with a clutch goal line stand to force a second overtime and universe point.
overtime period, the Havoc would start with the disc on the universe point. Like any universe point ever, there were three throwaways, but after a few minutes of intense ultimate, the Aviators eventually
dealt with the rollercoaster of emotions that came with the comeback. “We kept saying in the huddles and pregame, it’s so easy to get caught up in the fact, in the moment. We’re playing some of the best ultimate frisbee players in Texas, but ultimately, we’re playing our favorite sport with our favorite people. Let’s try and have fun. That translated to a Franklin also gave credit to the community and the role they played in the success of the Aviators,
the team and people. Tonight was special because it was Women’s Sports Night as well. We had [the] Astra out here throwing some discs with some kids all about community for us and it’s just all love, we could stay out here chatting for hours after the game. We just play for the city, play for the people, play for the community.”
ISAAC SOLNICK
PHOTOS
Raykiyat Olukoju crosses the line first
RUNNING INTO THE DISTANCE, OLUKOJU AIMS TO ONE DAY COMPETE IN THE OLYMPICS.
of the blocks in a certain way or being more aggressive or replaying continuously in my head,
talking about track with her former Olympian parents.
KISHNEET KAUR lyarter guy says
On May 19, junior sprinter Raykiyat Olukoju was honored as the University of California, Riverside (UCR) Student-Athlete of the Week.
Olukoju shared, “it is an honor to know that
During the Big West Championship, Olukoju was the anchor for the women’s 4x400meter relay. “The conditions weren’t the best, so it wasn’t looking too hot. [There was a squabble amidst] in lanes 1 and 2 where everyone’s trying to put their team in the best position. Sometimes you have to just go around it, second place] on the back stretch.”
Olukoju stays motivated by reminding herself that she has not reached her goal of becomin becoming an Olympian, Olukoju shared, “it is going to be a very long process that is not going to be a constant diagonal that goes up all the time. You can’t get to an end point without falling in love with the journey, regardless of whether you liked the journey or not.”
Olukoju’s biggest inspiration and role models have been her parents. Both of them have made it to where she wants to be, the Olympics. Her father competed in the 1988 Olympics in throws (shotput and discus) while her mother competed in the 1996 Olympics as a sprinter. Her m23wother is currently an assistant coach at UCR.
To perform her best, Olukoju reminds herself of what she needs to do every time she
ment of competition after the starter guy says go blank.”
This season, Olukoju’s personal goal is to run the 200-meters in 22 seconds. She is close to achieving this goal, with her personal record in this event being a 23.06. Olukoju shared that she has evolved as a person and athlete in numerous ways since coming to UCR, but the most prevalent way has been recognizing the
ersonal record
ran unattached, so basically all of my practices, all of my warm-ups, getting ready for competi-
son healthy and to put herself “in a position to prosper for next year, whether that’s shaving my time down, polishing mechanics or making
Olukoju hopes more athletes from UCR make it to NCAA regionals next season.
Olukoju has consecutively medaled in the 200-meter event at the Big West Championships for the past three years and greatly attributes this to her coaches having faith in her.
ing myself, having imposter syndrome…but, when this happens, being able to have coaches and teammates be there for you and say ‘hey it might not be happening right now, but that doesn’t mean you should lose faith in the future.’ That really helps.”
As a woman in sports, Olukoju expressed how she deals with various challenges. “Our
imbalances and menstrual cycles. [There are] days [when] we don’t want to do anything and would just say being [a female athlete] teaches resiliency…even if you feel like there’s a bunch of nails being hammered into you 24/7, you still have to get up and train, and give it your all regardless.”
also life. “Because life is going to be like this. There’s going to be days where you don’t want to do anything…but being able to have that tenacity and grit to still be able to get the job done, knowing you’re disciplined and able to give the max percentage that you
be a woman in sports.”
Going into her senior year and beyond, Olukoju wants to be involved in track one
track … basically following in my mom’s H
Hooper vision: scouting college players beyond the box score
RETHINKING HOW PLAYERS ARE SCOUTED BASED ON THEIR INTANGIBLES.
With the 2025 National Basketball Association (NBA) Finals looming, one can not help but feel the increasing tension and nerves that
NBA draft approaching this June, analysts get a chance to revisit the top college players as they embark into the draft process.
All season long, amateur scouts combed through a nation full of talented players trying to decide which athletes would make the best incoming rookies for their franchise. Unlike the NBA where everything on players are be-
with the raw stats and the old school eye-test in tandem to analyze the best college players. The tough decision scouts face is which of one of these tools to rely on more heavily.
have the ability to understand a player’s stat sheet, any casual fan could be a scout. When scouting any player, the data that is scrutinized are their scoring abilities, turnover ratio and plus-minus rating.
“hustle” stats sheet. These “hustle” traits are variables that only the specially-trained eye can capture. They are, literally, the ability to hustle -
experience and knowledge that helps them to analyze both sets of statistics to understand a player’s strengths and weaknesses.
Taking a look back to the 2024 Men’s NCAA March Madness Tournament to analyze two star
Cam Spencer and Tennessee’s Dalton Knecht.
Both guards average roughly the same 2023-
Their team’s March Madness outcome was -
ting knocked out by Purdue in the Elite Eight to UCONN’s Spencer winning the national championship. Yet in the 2024 NBA Draft, Knecht was taken with the 17th overall pick by the Lakers while Spencer had to wait until the Pistons took him with the 53rd overall pick. Knecht and Spencer had standout careers at their respective universities, but their professional careers have
Knecht’s ability to make shots was what made his March performance so explosive. He had showcased his keen ability to shoot from prac-
3-point range. Knecht has a quick release and shoots the ball above his head which makes it
this with his innate ability to create his own shot
that made defenses heavily gameplan around him. Knecht possessed the production and the to scouts.
Spencer had many incredible plays during his performance in March. He showcased his ability to be fast and aggressive when navigating through the paint and to make shots from behind the three-point line. He is a strong role player in tense situations as he knew what his team needed of him. Spencer also showed his ability to be a leader with exceptional communication skills on the court with his talented teammates, including
2025 NBA Rookie of the Year, Stephon Castle. The same skills that helped UCONN earn the national title and are the same skills that have supported him through his professional career so far.
As both wrapped up their rookie season in the NBA, it’s easy to tell that they are talented and have the skills to perform at the highest level. Deviling deeper into the importance of the analytics that aren’t illustrated on the stats sheet ilin the draft. Spencer’s upside lies more within his emphasis as a role player and decision maker rather than being the primary scorer or defensive catalyst within the team. Spencer isn’t going to be a primary ball handler, but can be a reliable catch and shoot player. Knecht created intrigue
the defense and his anticipation for ball movement.
Being a scout requires the ability to see what the stats actually represent during the game, as well as being able to pick up on details that a computer just can’t. Marking Spencer and
defense, reaction to tough situations and make -
needed to be successful in the pros. Scouts look for players that are not just productive in college, but also have the potential to succeed in the regular stat chart and those are exact things that scouts pinpoint in players.
DANIELLA SHAKIROVA
Dreams deferred: The cost of a 12-player roster in the WNBA
THE UPHILL BATTLE TO ENTER AND REMAIN IN THE WNBA. ELENA VERSAGE
Every year approximately 90 players declare for the WNBA draft. From that 90, only 38 players are drafted. However, getting drafted in the WNBA does not guarantee a player a spot on the roster. When a player is drafted and signs a rookie contract, they are considered a draftee. Draftees are not factored in the -
Drafted players go to training camp alongside returning players and undrafted invitees. Players near the bottom of the depth chart, especially rookies,ing up to the start of the regular season, teams must cut.
After a player is waived, there is a 48-hour period where the player can be picked up by another team. When that period is over, the player becomes an unrestricted free agent and can sign with any team. For many players, being waived means it is time to explore other opportunities beyond the WNBA. This season alone, over 70 players have been waived, The Golden State Valkyries waived all three of their drafted players, their reason being limited roster space.
Many talented players are waived because there simply is not enough space for them on a roster. There are currently 13 teams in the WNBA and each team is allowed 12 players, meaning that there are aparison, the NBA has 450 roster players not including the G-League players.
Cameron Brink discussed roster sizes on her podcast “Straight to Cam” with co-host Sydel Curry-Lee
think roster sizes need to be expanded before we add any more expansion teams…12 people for a roster is like insane.”
12 players is too small for a professional sports team. Accounting for injuries that statistically take out a couple players each season, teams wind up with 9-10 active players for the actual season games. The Los Angeles Sparks for example, three of their roster players are currently out on injury leaving only 9 available to play. This puts an increased amount of stress on the players.
This season, notable players Kaitlyn Chen and Deja Kelly were waived from their respective teams, causing outrage among WNBA fans. Chen, who played for Princeton and then won the national championship with UConn, was drafted by the Valkyries. The story of her being drafted went viral on social
media.
Chen didn’t expect to be drafted and was in the audience in support of her teammate Paige Bueckby the WNBA, which contributed to her popularity. She showed out in Valkyries games and was widely celebrated by the Bay Area fans. Part of the reason fans are so outraged about waiving Chen was they felt she was used for media and jersey sales just to be cut from the team. Chen recently signed with the Unrivaled three-on-three basketball league.
Kelly was undrafted and invited to training camp
scored 15 points in 13 minutes, scoring the game winner. Despite participating in the team’s media day, she was waived. On the “Straight to Cam” podcast, Kelly discussed being waived and stated “the reason for getting waived was nothing other than there’s just not enough space at the moment.”
and let alone stay in it. WNBA players are constantlytlyn Chen, Deja Kelly and countless others show us that talent alone is not enough in a growing league constrained by a disproportionate budget. The game is growing, and it’s time for the league to grow with it.
Los Angeles Sparks fall to Phoenix Mercury as the team still searches for its identity
The Los Angeles Sparks lost to the Phoenix Mercury on Sunday, 85-80 and dropped to 2-6 for the season. The Sparks jumped out to a 50-37 lead at halftime, but began to reel during the second half. Phoenix overcame the Crypto.com Arena with a win and improve to 5-2.
The Sparks have many new players for the 2025 season, and they’re lookwears on.
The Sparks are led by three time allstar and two-time champion, Kelsey Plum, acquired in a three team trade season with the Aces, Plum was playA’ja Wilson, and begins a new chapter of her career as the face of the Los Angeles Sparks in 2025.
Plum struggled against the Mercu-
really good looks that felt good coming an energy booster for the Sparks ofquarter where she broke out the “too little” celebration on Sami Whitcomb
after getting a tough bucket.
“She’s been incredible,” Plum stated, describing Sims’ impact on theest competitors in the league. She plays both sides of the ball, extremely physitheir spot, even players that are bigger.”
performance despite the loss. “We’ll work to do. Good thing is it’s early [in the season], but there’s still work to be done.”
Sarah Ashlee Barker, chipped in 6
a lot of upside for the franchise. Barker was born and raised in Alabama, and touched on the adjustments she’s made really only been in the South … Seeing before, it’s been really cool. Being in being able to relax and have social time outside.”
Regarding the transition from college basketball to WNBA basketball, turnaround … You get drafted, then a week later you’re hopping on a plane to go to your team and start training
for the opportunity.”
Barker was recently a recipient of of Kelsey Plum after she noticed that her shoe situation was a “nightmare.” Barker praised Plum as a teammate and leader remarking, “She’s just as good a She’s always in my ear helping me, doesn’t have to do those things but she wants to.”
Cameron Brink, who’s still recovering from her ACL injury last season, is expected to return sometime this season and will give the Sparks some much needed star power.
TERRY NGUYEN & ELENA VERSAGE
ELENA VERSAGE / THE HIGHLANDER
Be snatched.
The Highlander Newspaper is a great way to keep up with current events and news around campus. If you are interested in the newspaper’s articles or pictures, we offer opportunities in writing, photography and design. Join us every Monday at 5:15 p.m. in HUB 101 to learn more.
