Spring 2022

summer honors opportunities

gainesville live music scene

stormwater management

best restaurants in gainesville

meet aimee clesi, rhodes scholar

prism’s picks

honors students looking toward the future

ai at uf: what our newest research focus means for students

de somnium

poetry for a digital era

let it bleed

pas de deux

26 the salt of the ocean//the sand of the shore

staff

Taylor DiPietro

Sophia Eberhard

Kayla Ehrlich

Dylan Farquhar

Pranav Gupta

Jordan Harrow

Tara Kari

Marguerite Andrich

Andrea Bravo

Emilia Cardenas

Naina Chauhan

Stephanie Cobb

Gina Crespo

Tomas de la Huerta

Annelee Kiliddjian

Campbell Lackey

Caroline Levine

Tiffany Liu

Jillian Malinsky

Kaitlyn McCarty

Kaitlyn McGowan

editorial board

editors-in-chief

Joyce Jiang

Soumya Kona

managing editor

Brian Paulsen

art and photography editor

Grace Dooley

creative section editors

Noah Towbin

Ronak Kanodia

design editor

Emily Miller

lead copy editors

Sofia Anrecio

Daniella Conde

social media coordinator

Zoe Golomb

web coordinator

Catherine Pereira

a letter from the editors-in-chief

Dear readers,

Welcome to the spring 2022 issue of PRISM Magazine! This semester, we strove to understand the concept of duality. Through PRISM’s spring theme, we seek to acknowledge the differences that exist in each of us and honor the harmony of those distinctions. Duality represents the ways in which we all seek and experience balance as a result, rather than in spite, of our diversity. We aim to center our time in college and beyond around learning to celebrate the contrasts that will always exist in us. This contrast is what makes our individuality so singular and engaging, and enthusiasm for it so crucial. Our distinctions are what create the surprises in life, and together the variety of life brings balance. We hope that this issue inspires you to reflect on the duality within yourself that you see every day.

We are so proud to have been able to lead and work with this incredible team of PRISM staff. This group of creative, talented individuals works so hard to create an excellent publication and showcase their many talents, and it is clear in this latest edition. Thank you especially to our editorial board for their amazing and committed work this semester. We would like to recognize Emily, Sophia and Daniella for their extraordinary contributions in creating the magazine. We truly admire all PRISM staffers’ dedication and talent. This will be our last semester with PRISM as we graduate and embark on a new chapter of our lives, but we leave with the skills we gained through PRISM and fond memories of all the staff. PRISM has always sought to provide thought-provoking, educational and entertaining literature to the Honors community, but it also has the dual purpose of providing an outlet for writers and artists in the realm of journalism. We know that the futures of each and every PRISM staffer and editor are bright and exciting, and we can’t wait to see you all continue to grow.

Thank you for reading PRISM’s spring 2022 magazine. As you navigate your successes and obstacles and find moments of hardship and happiness, we hope you will find joy in the chaos. We hope you will strive to embrace the sense of duality within each of you.

Sincerely,

Joyce Jiang and Soumya Kona

Kiran Mital

Dee-Dee Oguejiofor

Nikita Patel

Reya Patel

Derek Pena

Catherine Pereira

Hannah Powell

Yamika Ramesh

Mariam Sargsyan

Niloufar Saririan

Veronika Schmalfuss

Greta Schmitzer

Holly Smith

Amanda Smith

Olutimilehin Sobanjo

Jacob Stein

Marinna Stopa

Max Taylor

Uma Vogeti

Julia Zhu

Summer Honors Opportunities

Are you an incoming Honors freshman? Does the thought of not knowing anyone on the first day of school make you nervous? Do you want to know what it’s like to live in Hume Hall, surround a bonfire making s’mores or get to know Gainesville with students just like you? Do you love nature, reading fantasy literature, conducting experiments or soaking up the sun while floating on a tube down the Ocklawaha River?

If even one of these resonated with you, then one of the five UF Honors exclusive opportunities will be a great match for you.

For those who can’t commit to an entire weekend: H-Day is the perfect event for you.

This one-day event held at Ichetucknee Springs State Park actually began by accident, following an unforeseen change of plans with the regular H-Camp last summer. When the campgrounds could no longer welcome the 75 incoming freshmen, Dr. Tehquin Forbes produced the idea of H-Day in less than a week.

Because of its proven success, it will stick around this upcoming summer.

Held on Aug. 22, 2022, students can expect more concentrated, intensive (but not serious) communitybuilding activities as they float down the river on tubes and eat lunch on the banks surrounding the crystal-clear water.

For those who have an interest in Renaissance engineering and the “Lord of the Rings:” “One Credit to Rule Them All: A Medieval Workshop” is made for you.

At the first annual multi-day camp held at UF, 30 students can expect a structure similar to Honors Camp and Honors Potion Camp. They will be sorted into Houses and will engage in discussions about archeology and material culture, will be shown replica brooches, watch armor and weapon experts demonstrate their craft, and

learn how to use large thread, weaving, illumination and heraldry to create embroidered shapes. Participants will be led by Dr. Valerie Hampton who has expertise in ancient and medieval history. Similar to Harry Potter Camp, this mystical camp will give participants one credit toward their First-Year Honors credit requirements. the Honors staff, professors, and Dr. Forbes are hoping to coordinate with Honors Potion Camp to run the two side by side.

For Harry Potter lovers: Honors Potion Camp is perfect for you!

With a focus on learning chemistry through Hogwartsinspired experiments led by second-year chemistry graduate student Tyler Wagner, students will be separated by their respective Houses and will bond with their fellow Gryffindors, Hufflepuffs, Ravenclaw and Slytherins while hanging out in Hume Hall.

The biggest goal is to build long-lasting relationships with students that have similar interests that will translate into greater success and satisfaction during their time at UF.

Dr. Law is looking to run this magical camp alongside the Lord of the Rings Camp so the participants can eat lunch together and hang out after the scheduled camp hours end.

Calling all summer B incoming Honors freshman!

Summer in the City gives those admitted to the summer B semester that runs from June 27 to Aug. 5 an extra leg up on the students who come in the fall.

Previously taught by Dr. Melissa Johnson, Dr. Tehquin Forbes will lead this one-credit class that also counts toward the FirstYear Honors credit requirements. This exclusive opportunity is for summer B admits and summer B admits only, providing them with not only academic credit but also immense knowledge about the city they will call home for the next four years.

Are you just looking for a good time in the great outdoors with your fellow Honors freshman? Honors Camp is the perfect choice for you!

This iconic camp is great for those that love a good adventure and love to have fun in the sun.

Held Aug. 19-21, 2022, at Orange Springs Retreat Center, students can expect to receive exclusive support from older, successful student leaders in the Honors Program and have the opportunity to build long-lasting friendships.

It has been shown that H-Camp participants go on to assume leadership roles in various prestigious organizations on campus and continue to build the same friendships made while at camp throughout their time at UF.

Unless otherwise stated, dates and prices for all programs are still being finalized. More information is expected in April or May, but check for updates on the official UF Honors website.

Story by Marinna Stopa Design by Emily Miller

Gainesville Live Music Scene

The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020 brought about the interruption of many things once taken for granted, and live music was no exception. As once crowded music venues and concert halls began to collect dust, the occasional live-streamed concert left much to be missed by the hordes of live music fans who wished for nothing more than to discover a new local band or rock out to a fan favorite together again. Gainesville’s live music scene quickly became one of the pandemic’s various casualties—many of the city’s staples, ranging from the High Dive to Heartwood Soundstage, faced temporary closures and struggled to stay in business during quarantine. Fortunately, with a new year comes new opportunities, and the past few months have seen a triumphant rebirth of Gainesville’s music scene. The return of classic music events ranging from the annual Heartwood Soundstage Music Festival to the highly-anticipated Indie Live series marks a definitive comeback for the world of music, yet with a number of key differences this time around. I spoke to some of Gainesville’s hottest up-and-coming bands to get the inside scoop on what has changed within the past couple of years.

The Late Night Losers, an indie-rock band, made their debut in January 2021 and have spent much of their career navigating the post-pandemic music scene. After recently signing with Swamp Records, a student-run independent record label based in Gainesville, the band has since skyrocketed in popularity. While the pandemic has posed many challenges ranging from last-minute cancellations to limited venue options, the group actually believes the pandemic has done a lot of good for Gainesville’s live music scene. “It forced the venues to stop booking regional and national acts, which really allowed the local bands to get shows and create a following,” drummer Wilson Gaberino said, “that’s been huge…the whole thing basically started from scratch in the past year, and we all became a community of artists.” Lead singer

Thomas Allain agrees—as music venues like Heartwood Soundstage have begun offering new events to help stay afloat during the pandemic, such as a weekly farmers’ market, Gainesville has witnessed an increased sense of community. “Everything about Heartwood, from the regulars attending the weekly farmers’ markets to the shows, atmosphere and location has a great sense of community and relationship,” Allain said.

Many local artists agree that Gainesville’s music community is notably unique. Clay Dixon of the innovative folk-indie Piccadillies Band believes that Gainesville’s music scene is a special experience that cannot be found elsewhere. “I think it’s really special what we have in Gainesville,” says Dixon. “I lived in Orlando for 20 years, and I did not experience the same level of people being excited about your music.” Dixon says that Gainesville’s indie music scene is like a giant group of friends, and this sense of community can’t be found elsewhere. “That tells me that there’s really something special here.” Furthermore, Dixon agrees that changes brought about by the pandemic have opened up many opportunities for local bands, putting an unusual highlight on local music that is only bound to grow as Gainesville’s music scene continues to thrive.

Story by Zoe Golomb Design and Illustrated by Courtney Chalmers

STORMWATERMANAGEMENT

Stormwater infrastructure is all around, and we often don’t know it. Almost any green space on campus, while beautiful, has the added bonus of being able to absorb stormwater. In 2021, according to the Florida Climate Center, Gainesville received 5.31 feet of rainfall. Imagine if that water never went anywhere but just sat. I, of course, would be able to stand comfortably, but I have many vertically challenged friends who would have to swim.

Traditional stormwater infrastructure consists of consists of curbs, gutters and storm drains. This infrastructure is meant to collect and channel stormwater into local bodies of water. However, there can be issues. As water runs over impervious surfaces, like sidewalks and roads, it collects all of the pollutants from our cars and scooters and picks up our trash. This polluted stormwater reaches our natural bodies of water and the aquifers that supply our drinking water. Pollution, as you already know, is a big issue. However, it may be more complex than it seems. For example, algae blooms are caused by runoff that collects fertilizer and other landscaping chemicals. Once in the water, these nutrients are eaten up by bacteria that then explode in population. This causes algae blooms that take up the oxygen in the water and prevent sunlight from reaching the bottom, which kills many of the plants and animals living there.

Green stormwater infrastructure absorbs stormwater quickly, which reduces runoff and stops the water from picking up so many pollutants. Local bodies are not overwhelmed by an intense amount of water when it rains, which helps stabilize the ecosystems. Plants are incorporated into the designs to help filter and clean the stormwater closer to the source. Using native plants increases biodiversity. Further, more plant life decreases carbon dioxide emissions. Increasing green space in urban areas also encourages inhabitants to be more active and helps build community.

According to the New York City Department of Environmental Protection, the most common strategies for green infrastructure include natural stormwater basins, rain gardens, permeable pavement and green roofs. Natural stormwater basins are bodies of water that hold stormwater during and after rain events. These bodies of water can be permanently wet or dry up in between rain events. Either way, these basins can be built to maximize water’s soil infiltration and contact with native vegetation. Rain gardens are like miniature stormwater basins that hold water after rain and let it slowly filter into the ground or be taken up by plants to be returned to the atmosphere. Permeable pavement allows water to soak right into it and reduces runoff. The pavement can either be more porous or incorporate elements like blocks with small patches of plants

between them. Green roofs are green spaces that reduce the amount of water that runs off the top of buildings when it rains, increase biodiversity and keep buildings cooler.

All of this stormwater infrastructure can be seen at UF. Once you know where to look, you start seeing it everywhere. While there are many storm drains, there are also many examples of green infrastructure. Most people might not know about the green roof on the Charles R. Perry Construction Yard next to the Rinker School of Construction Management. According to the nonprofit Green Roofs for Healthy Cities, the soil atop the roof is five inches deep and includes native Florida plants such as dune sunflower, tropical sage and gopher apple. The parking lot next to the bat houses is made of permeable pavement.The green coming up between the slats shows how easily water is able to infiltrate.

One of the most important stormwater areas is the Stormwater Ecological Enhancement Project (SEEP) at the Natural Area Teaching Laboratory. According to UF’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, the project to create this natural wetland basin began in 1995. Much of the stormwater from campus is funneled towards the SEEP, including from the Plaza of the Americas. It contains several levels that gradually move stormwater downhill, filtering it, until it reaches the final wetland that stays wet year-round. Each level of the wetland contains native species adapted to the conditions on that level. There are many smaller natural basins scattered around campus as well: Graham Pond, Liberty Pond next to the Reitz and the Newins-Ziegler sink. Each of these areas not only let us know we’re in the Swamp, but keep some of us from drowning. Next time you’re walking to class, look around, and you might be surprised by what you recognize.

Story by Taylor DiPietro Design by Courtney Chalmers

Best Restaurants In Gainesville

In the times of fast-food alleys and chain restaurants galore, it can be difficult to find a restaurant with a refreshing menu and good flavor. This infestation of big-name eateries has grown exponentially in Florida, creating a situation wherein there are more options than ever, but it’s never been harder to make a choice. Gainesville, however, has managed to stay ahead of the curve.

Though home to many chains, Gainesville has a shockingly prosperous restaurant scene—home to many original and ‘mom and pop’ restaurants. Somehow small, semi-rural Gainesville manages to beat out bigger cities, such as Jacksonville and Orlando, with a vast selection of various cuisines in a relatively small radius. Perhaps this can be attributed to the University of Florida. Regardless, Gainesville is, in my opinion, one of the best food towns in northern and central Florida. Though there are many restaurants, shops and groceries worthy of mention, I have three definitive favorites:

Sababa 3.

Coming in as my third favorite restaurant in Gainesville, Sababa is an absolute delight. Meaning “cool” in Hebrew, Sababa captures the essence of Israeli street food and casual cuisine. At reasonable prices, you can order shawarma, falafel, schnitzel (the Israeli food trinity), and other traditional dishes such as bamia, bourekas, babka and so on. Located downtown, near the Hippodrome, you can easily stop by and grab a quick, delicious and authentic meal. For those who enjoy Israeli cooking—or those looking to learn about Israel’s diverse cuisine—Sababa is the perfect place.

Vegetarians: look no further! You have just found your new favorite restaurant. Mint Indian Cuisine is, you guessed it, an Indian restaurant that specializes in vegetarian cooking. In fact, I do not know of a single meat dish on the expansive menu. If you are a heavy meat-lover and cringed at the word vegetarian, have no worries! Because you also just found your favorite restaurant. The food here is so delicious that you will forget your meal is meatless. (Trust me, I have multiple testimonies from meat-obsessed friends who fell in love with the place.) Though their prices are on the higher side and the ambience is casual (not exactly a date night spot), I always jump at every opportunity to go there. So, if you are a fan of Indian cuisine but do not know where to start looking, I highly recommend this hole-in-the-wall restaurant located in western Gainesville, near the Oaks Mall.

Oh, Blue Agave—you are my true love and literally everyone’s favorite restaurant. Seriously, everyone I know absolutely loves to eat here. Located in northwest Gainesville off NW 43rd street, Blue Agave is a local, family-owned Mexican restaurant. Let me just say that I have loved everything I have tried on their menu. From appetizers, to entrées, to desserts—you will not be disappointed. In fact, Blue Agave is the best Mexican restaurant I have ever been to. (Which doesn’t sound like much since Florida does not have the best reputation for Mexican food, but I believe Blue Agave could single handedly change that.) In addition to food, they have numerous alcoholic beverages and various daily deals, such as BOGO margaritas on Thursdays and BOGO sangria on Wednesdays. Though their prices are not the cheapest, the food is well worth the cost. So, if you even remotely enjoy Mexican food—or just good food in general—Blue Agave is a must try.

Mint Indian Cuisine Blue Agave

There are many other restaurants in Gainesville worth exploring, like Crane Ramen, Uppercrust Productions and The Flying Biscuit Cafe, to name a few. But my favorite restaurants will always be Blue Agave, Mint Indian Cuisine and Sababa—and I imagine they will soon be yours, too!

Story by Caroline Levine Design by Emily Miller

MEET AIMEE CLESI, Rhodes Scholar

There are many ways to describe Aimee Clesi. A senior studying philosophy and history at UF. A firstgeneration college student. A future lawyer passionate about the issue of wrongful conviction. The first UF student in 22 years to win the prestigious Rhodes Scholarship, and the first woman from UF to win it.

The Rhodes Scholarship is the oldest international scholarship program that funds graduate study at Oxford University, and is considered one of the most prestigious. The scholarship covers tuition and includes a stipend for costs of living. Clesi first heard about the Rhodes Scholarship from her mother, who was adamant that her daughters graduate debt free, but it was Ms. Kelly J. Medley from the Honors office who helped Clesi understand what it really takes to apply for the competitive scholarship. With help from

Medley, Clesi started the rigorous application process two years ago. Clesi first applied to the Beinecke and Truman Scholarships, both of which fit her graduate education goals, but she was selected for neither. Although the rejections were devastating, Clesi says that the process of applying itself has influenced her career goals. For example, writing a public policy proposal for forming a conviction integrity unit when she applied for the Truman Scholarship helped Clesi further develop her passion for the issue of wrongful conviction. “These failures helped to finesse who it is I am and what I want to do when I am older,” Clesi said.

Although she has already been selected for the Rhodes Scholarship, Clesi still needs to separately apply to Oxford and gain admittance to the university. Clesi plans to pursue a DPhil, an academic degree in law, to learn about legal issues in the United States from an academic perspective. After finishing at Oxford, Clesi then plans to attend a law school in the US to obtain a JD, a degree to practice law. Despite the many years of schooling required of this path, Clesi strongly believes that an academic law degree will benefit her in achieving her long-term career goal of practicing law. Clesi’s dedication to having a thorough understanding of legal and racial issues is evident even in her undergraduate career. Her favorite part about philosophy and history is “the variety of thought that comes from multiple perspectives,” which is evident when learning about how stories such as that of Rosewood are told differently based on the time period and contemporary events that influence the telling.

In addition to an hour-long commute to drive to campus from her home in Branford, Clesi has worked throughout college. She currently works part-time in the History Department, but previously she worked for Harveys and Winn-Dixie, as well as Ichetucknee Springs State Park during the pandemic. She has also had multiple internships to gain experience in law and public policy. Clesi admits to being a procrastinator, but she says the key to managing her busy schedule is packing in as much as she can when she is on campus—from schoolwork to events

at the Bob Graham Center to philosophy conferences. She also uses cross-country running as a method to decompress.

Clesi’s top advice to other students is to talk to their professors and find mentors. Clesi is thankful for her own support network of mentors that she has found at UF. Clesi says that she is grateful to the Bob Graham Center and Center for Humanities and Public Sphere, specifically Dr. Matthew Jacobs, Ms. Marianne Vernetson, Dr. Sophia Acord, Dr. Sheila Dickison, Dr. Lynn Leverty and Dr. Louise Newman, for providing opportunities such as her legal internship. Clesi also is grateful to her academic and research mentors, Dr. Jaime Ahlberg, Dr. Steve Noll, Dr. Sheryl Kroen and Dr. Heather Vrana, who have taught her history and philosophy and pushed her past her comfort zone. Clesi attributes her accomplishments and feeling of belonging to her large support network, both at UF and beyond. With her passion for justice, strong work ethic and gracious personality, it is easy to see why Clesi was awarded the Rhodes Scholarship.

After a foreign exchange at the Royal Holloway, University of London with her twin sister, Clesi is excited to return to Britain. Clesi says that she is looking forward to the diversity of international students she anticipates interacting with at Oxford. While she is proud of her accomplishments, Clesi remains humbly dedicated to her passion of using the law to find justice in cases of wrongful conviction and hopes to represent the University of Florida. Clesi wants to inspire and encourage other UF students. “Our school, we have earned our place among these elite institutions, and we can do just as well if not better than them. We have a spot to make, we have something to say, and I want to encourage other people from my school and community,” Clesi said.

Story by Joyce Jiang Photography provided by Erika Clesi Design by Courtney Chalmers

prism’s

movie pick by soumya

Redefining Disney villainy amid enchantment and dazzling color is “Encanto,” which was first released in November 2021. The plot surrounds Mirabel, the easily loved youngest daughter born powerless in a family of children with magic, and her desire to save her family and prove herself. “Encanto” is set in a fictional land in Colombia and is full of vibrant colors, clothing and a well-diversified Latinx population. This movie is known for its catchy music and for being a litmus test for anyone considering therapy. “Hamilton” creator Lin-Manuel Miranda wrote the movie’s lively soundtrack, which leaves just as much of an impression as the award-winning Broadway musical. A range of experiences can be had in the movie’s just under two-hour runtime: a strong craving for arepas con queso, a dance with donkey friends and the desire to punch an old woman. In every way, “Encanto” has been well worth the seven times that I’ve watched it so far. And for my eldest daughter gals? Hang in there!

book pick by brian

Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” is a book that doesn’t really need an introduction. In the more than 200 years since its publication, it has cemented itself into the fabric of English literature and pop culture. The story has always been one of my favorites, and I was even given the opportunity to teach an (Un)common Reads on the book last semester. I reread “Frankenstein” numerous times in preparation for the class, and I found myself reflecting on the novel in some surprising ways.

The last time I read the story was in high school, and I feel that the experiences I’ve had since then have impacted and deepened my relationship with the text. I found myself noticing things in the story that I’d never picked up on during my previous readings. One detail in particular that stood out to me more while preparing for the class was just how scary the book can be. “Frankenstein” is a Gothic story and a sci-fi story, but first and foremost, it is a horror story. The book was written as the result of a dare between Shelley and friends, who all wished to see who could come up with the scariest ghost story, and the writing certainly reflects these ghoulish origins. As a huge fan of horror stories, I was surprised by how deeply some of the scenes and imagery affected me, and I wish the horror aspects of Frankenstein’s story were preserved in more of its film and theater adaptations.

Story by Soumya Kona, Brian Paulsen, and Daniella Conde Design by Emily Miller

picks

music picks by daniella

“Jigsaw” - Conan Gray

Conan Gray is known for writing anthems for the heartbroken, and this song packs a painful punch. It’s a pop-ballad about changing every part of yourself so the object of your affection will love you back. This is a winless fight, but something many people unfortunately experience. This song was originally a diary entry that Conan shared on his secret TikTok account, but fans loved it so much that he decided to release it officially.

“j’s lullaby (darlin’ i’d wait for you)” - Delaney Bailey

Delaney Bailey is a 20-year-old from Indiana who experienced unprecedented success when this tune gained popularity. This song went viral on TikTok as the background music for video compilations of happy couples in love. Tender, beautifully sung lyrics are accompanied by soft strumming to create a sweet, touching love song.

“I Think I Met You In A Dream” - COIN

COIN concluded their tour and hit the ground running with a new album announcement; this song is their lead single! Chase Lawrence, the lead singer of the band, says this is his favorite song he’s ever written. The night before he went in the studio, he dreamt that he wrote this tune. “I Think I Met You In A Dream” is an infectious 90s inspired track that sets a great precedent for COIN’s upcoming album release.

Here are my top three song releases of the beginning of 2022!

Honors Students Looking Toward the Future

We asked Honors students what they think the world will look like in a year. Here’s what they said:

“Within the sphere of the University of Florida, I really hope that within a year all of the construction on campus will be largely done. I feel bad for all of the freshmen who don’t really know what UF looks like because there have been so many closures on Museum Road. I hope that within a year, the new Honors dorm will be open, in addition to all of the new academic buildings like Malachowsky Hall. I also hope that COVID-19 continues to be more controlled and that there won’t be another variant. It would be great to see more people get vaccinated and boosted. In terms of social justice, I hope to see more justice served in the fight for racial equality. In terms of the environment, I anticipate that UF will place more emphasis on sustainable practices and preserving the environment for future generations. It’ll be my final semester within the next year, so on a personal level I hope to have my post-graduation plans sorted out by then as well.”

“Honestly, I have no idea what the world will look like a year from now. However, I do hope the pandemic will have entirely cleared up by then. With the end of the pandemic, I’m hoping for the beginning of new opportunities. A lot of small businesses and companies had to close down during the past two years, so it’d be nice to see a number of them start up again. I imagine that we’ll see more people traveling to make up for lost time!”

“I think masks are still going to be around, although people may be wearing them voluntarily rather than because they are being forced to. I also think that the stock market is going to continue to crash. As far as UF goes, I think we will become a Top 4 Public University. Two or more apartment buildings will probably start construction around Gainesville. Additionally, I don’t think there will be any more Zoom classes or Hyflex options.”

Story by Daniella Conde Design by Emily Miller

“It’s hard to say where we will be in one year because there’s constantly so much change. In terms of COVID-19, I hope that there are more scientific discoveries to back the decisions being made. We’re going into year three of the pandemic, and we should really just be doing what’s best for each other and ourselves. I hope that there’s more understanding and kindness overall.”

- Serra Sowers, sophomore, Class of 2024

- Sofia Anrecio, junior, Class of 2023

- Sophia Eberhard, junior, Class of 2023

- Noah Towbin, junior, Class of 2023

AI at UF:

what our newest research focus means for students

By now, just about everyone affiliated with UF has heard about the Artificial Intelligence (AI) University Initiative in some capacity. If not apparent from all the detours caused by the construction of Malachowsky Hall, announcements about AI-related research and coursework have been well-advertised. Touted as the “fourth Industrial Revolution,” the university-wide focus on AI research and education stemmed from a partnership with NVIDIA and its co-founder, UF alum Chris Malachowsky. Yet many students are left wondering what this really means for them. Through navigating the buzzwords and glowing articles, students of all majors and disciplines can come by a wealth of opportunities available.

Let’s start with the hardware–that shiny new supercomputer that we’ve all probably seen a meme or two about. NVIDIA’s technology will be integrated with the already established HiPerGator AI system. Altogether, UF will have access to 700 petaflops — “peta” meaning one quadrillion — of computing performance. For reference, completing a hand calculation is on the order of magnitude of one flops. It’s a staggering statistic that happens to be the highest of any university.

Researchers across all UF departments have plans to put this capability to use. Projects range from engineering and robotics to the social and ethical issues governing them. The technology will be used to improve models of physiology and neurology, seismic events, climate and agriculture, logical decisionmaking processes and much more. Humanities researchers will study education and equity as they relate to the AI revolution.

In terms of academics, UF colleges have created coursework and a certificate program for students seeking to incorporate AI into their fields. Applying the “AI Course” filter to ONE.UF registration presents a whopping 75 courses offered in the coming fall semester. Degree programs in data science, information systems, bioinformatics and audience analytics prepare

undergraduate and graduate students for an interdisciplinary career, while the AI Fundamentals and Applications certificate allows any student to gain broad experience and knowledge in AI.

A big question for current students is whether they will be able to take advantage of this initiative before graduating, or whether the new opportunities are still under development for future students. As it turns out, students at any stage are able to get involved. The AI certificate program requires just nine credits, of which a few require prerequisites. For a course registration fee, micro-credentials are available asynchronously to any student. Majors, minors, and individual courses in AI are available to undergraduate and graduate students. With the vast amount of research funding at UF, getting involved with a project as an undergraduate is an excellent and the most direct way to learn the real-world applications of AI.

Honors students specifically can join — or start — an Honors course related to AI and its applications. Several relevant courses are being offered in the fall 2022 semester. An (Un)common Reads course centered around Hemant Taneja’s book, “Unscaled: How AI and a New Generation of Upstarts Are Creating the Economy of the Future,” will allow students to discuss the role of AI in today’s economy. A Signature Seminar, “Exploring Artificial Intelligence in Modern Society,” offers an even broader view of AI in society. As always, Honors students are encouraged to develop courses of their own– we have seen that with the interdisciplinary nature of AI, students of all backgrounds can help expand the Honors course repertoire and bring more of the AI initiative into our program. With so many opportunities for students to gain and contribute knowledge in a growing field, the future of research at UF is on an exciting path!

Story by Kiran Mital Design by Emily Miller

de somnium

I had just started attending university, and, having passed from the age of childhood, was deliberating what to study. The university offered courses in both the liberal arts and sciences, and both seemed to offer their own rewards. As I pondered which path to take, a vision came to me in a dream through the immortal night, just as described by the Homeric poets.

At a quiet and rustic crossroads appeared two women, towering over my own short stature, each grabbing hold of my arms and dragging me towards herself in such forceful competition that I felt close to being torn in half. And they were shouting at each other, both laying claim to my life. Their cries intermingled until it was no longer clear what was being said, nor by which, though I was able to pick out the phrases “enrollment numbers” and “tuition.”

Both were fair and well-dressed, but one was more austere and sober with dark hair, grey eyes and a shining white cloak. “I, dear child, am Science, whom you have already began to learn, related to you from both your parents, for they are both engineers and have reached success through me. If you are willing to keep away from her silliness and nonsense”—with a gesture toward the other—“and to follow me, you will learn how the world functions, from the forces of subatomic particles to the dynamics of whole ecosystems to the orbits of the planets. You will be respected by your neighbors and have the power to better the world with your work. Do not be discouraged by my humble clothing, for this is the way that Archimedes, Galen, Tesla, Oppenheimer and many others began under my tutelage.” Science said all this, and even more, with crisp diction and an even voice.

And when Science stopped, the other began. With rosy cheeks, a warm smile and brightly colored hair and mantle, she spoke in a more informal manner. “My child, I am Humanities, already familiar and known to you since you first began to read. Science may teach you how the world works, but with me you shall learn why the world works. Follow your passions in literature, history, art or linguistics and you may unravel the greatest mystery of all: human nature. Many doors will be open to you, for the skills you gain shall be broad and flexible. Even in the fields of science, technology and business you can find paths through me. For even Galen studied rhetoric and philosophy, and Oppenheimer poetry and linguistics.”

At this point, I was no more decided than when I started, equally drawn to both paths. Seeming to realize this, the two women devolved into a rapid exchange, each attempting to catch my attention. No sooner had Science called out “Through me you will learn logic and critical thinking,” Humanities followed up with “The same could be said of me, but you would also learn teamwork and collaboration.” Science soon rejoined with an indignant “Science does not exist in a vacuum! Follow me and you can work together with peers across the world.” Humanities laughed riotously and spoke, “As if my own children are not similarly spread throughout the continents!”

This exchange ensued for quite some time, until my head spun fiercely and I shouted in distemper, “Why, it seems as if you two have more similarities than differences!” The two stopped and stared at me intently, until I blushed under their scrutiny, but still I continued: “Both of you are interesting and offer enigmas to be solved, both of you teach ways to solve problems, and both of you can lead to a successful career. Why should I have to choose between you two, if both interest me?”

After a period of silence, each woman looking toward the other, Humanities shrugged. “I had not realized we could be considered so, and why should she have to choose?” Science then murmured a quiet agreement, “Perhaps I can teach her some knowledge you lack, and you can impart what I myself lack. Shall we cease such silly competition?” So saying, they shook hands and walked away together, each giving me a gentle smile of approval. As they departed and I felt the fingers of wakefulness begin to drag at me, I faintly heard Science ask Humanities, “What have you heard about that new round of budget cuts?”

Story by Joyce Jiang Design by Emily Miller

gathering

Everything is dark, At least it feels that way. Someone else should be here, But all I know is myself.

The silence is oppressive, And nothing, nobody moves to end it. I hear only the dearth of sound, I see only my reflection in the darkness.

Then, as if prompted by the emptiness, A single voice penetrates the unsettling calm. Slowly, the shade dissipates, And faces of friends dominate my vision.

“Good morning, please turn on your cameras,” Entreats my Zoom teacher As my Zoom class begins And my digital life Zooms by.

A D

dictator

Most people shy away from submission And seek independence, self-sufficiency, Liberation, freedom, autonomy. We have none of these things.

A dictator reigns over us, Restricting our freedoms, Crushing our aspirations And destroying our lives on a whim.

Our ruler has no inhibitions. He has no scruples or conscience Or heart or morals or humanity. He has only a hunger for power.

Forget your job. Forget your dreams. Forget your friends and family; You are silenced when he is mad.

Life cannot move without him. Life tends to move fastest with him. He is everywhere and nowhere. He is Wi-Fi.

I G I T A L E R A

mute

I cannot breathe. My voice has abandoned me. Nobody hears my cries. Life goes on without me. Terror begins to set in. My heart starts beating faster. I am trapped in a box. I am soundproofed. I am screaming. I am dying. I forgot that I muted myself in the Zoom call.

PoemsbyNoahTowbin

DesignbyTiffanyLiu

IllustrationbyTiffanyLiu

let it bleed

Dark leaves fall from shaking trees and float in the gray, murky water as Bianca trudges through the rainstorm. Her parents told her not to wander in such weather, but she had been cooped up for days, waiting for the storm to end. Lightning strikes in a white slash across the sky. A field of flowers decorates a nearby hill with buds of varying tones of black. Bianca treks up the hill through the silvery blades of grass as the rainwater rushes in the opposite direction.

When Bianca reaches the top of the hill, the sight that awaits her almost makes her fall back down. Behind a clear wall of glass lies a world Bianca has never seen. Everything is painted with vibrant streaks and shades. She can feel the warmth of the sunlight shining through the trees and the daffodils that dance in the breeze. She can feel the coolness of the river flowing over the rocks and the leaves that sway between the stalks. Thinking she is hallucinating, Bianca peels her eyes away for a moment to look back at her own world of black and white. Dark dirt lies under the dull sky. Dark streaks outline the ridges of the trees. Leaves fall from the branches, different shades but not…not like the vivid canvas in front of her.

A girl sits near the border, drawing on paper. Bianca races to her, almost tumbling down the hill in her haste. Maybe this girl can help her make sense of the world before her.

In her excitement, Bianca slaps her hand against the strong glass so hard that she startles the girl. She makes a noise of surprise, but Bianca can’t hear her across the border.

Bianca motions to the world on the other side in awe. The girl quirks an eyebrow at her and then begins to write on her paper around a floral drawing. She holds her paper up to the glass. Colors, says the word circled on the paper.

“Colors,” Bianca says to herself, testing the word out.

The girl on the other side seems to understand, nodding enthusiastically. She looks around and then picks up a leaf. Bianca examines this leaf and its color. Then the girl writes on her paper again.

Green, the paper says.

“Green,” Bianca says.

Bianca has never seen anything as beautiful as a sunset in color. Iris, the girl on the other side, teaches her all of the colors, and Bianca sits through the rainstorm and points them out as she begins to understand. The daffodils are yellow, and the river is blue! And oh, the sunset, such a beautiful blend of orange and pink! But as the sun nearly finishes its descent, Iris apologetically waves goodbye. She must be home before the night, Bianca assumes. That’s fine, because Bianca cannot see the colors so well in the dark. She decides she will be back as soon as the light rises again.

Bianca skips home, singing all the names of colors she has learned so that she doesn’t forget. She sings all the way home, and she swings open her front door, and sings all the way to her room, forgetting that she is drenched in–

“Where have you been, young lady?” Bianca’s mother screeches.

Bianca stops, winces, and turns to face her.

“I heard your song,” her mother says coldly. Before Bianca can intervene with an excuse, her mother shouts, “Harold! Get down here! Family meeting, now!”

Bianca’s father sludges down the stairs, and then Bianca is sitting on the chair opposite her parents. She is soaking the furniture, but neither of her parents seem to care.

“It’s clear that you have seen the world of color,” Bianca’s mother says.

“Why didn’t you tell me about it sooner?” Bianca squeals, still unable to contain her awe.

“Because you can never live in it,” her mother says, and Bianca’s elation comes to a halt. “The seal between our world and the world of color can never be broken, or else the color will bleed into our world, and we will lose everything we have.”

“We have nothing!” Bianca cries. “We have no color–”

“We have our own ways of expression, just as beautiful,” her mother snaps. She goes to the wall and removes a charcoal drawing that she created of her family. It plops on Bianca’s lap. “This is our way. This is how we live. You may see it as simple, but simple does not mean lacking.”

Bianca stares at the dull drawing on her lap. Her father twiddles his thumbs.

Bianca still returns to the border every day at dawn. She stares at the colors that prance around her. More than anything else, she stares at Iris. Iris’ hair is golden like the sun, and her eyes are blue like the river. Bianca traces letters on the glass, and in return, Iris continues to write words around her drawings. Bianca wants to draw, too.

She brings paper and tries to copy Iris’ flowers, but her mother’s charcoal cannot emulate the vibrancy of Iris’ floral designs. Iris praises Bianca’s charcoal skills, seeming genuinely amazed at the images that different shades of charcoal can create, but Bianca breaks the charcoal in frustration and sobs. She leans her forehead against the glass. Iris leans her forehead against hers from the other side.

From the other side. Always from the other side.

A few days later, Bianca sits across from Iris and opens her charcoal kit. But this time, there is no charcoal. There is only the hammer that Bianca stole from her garage.

Iris raises her eyebrows in confusion, but Bianca motions for her to step back. Then the hammer smashes against the glass. The crack isn’t deep enough to go through yet. The hammer smashes again.

Distantly, Bianca hears her mother running behind her, shouting for her daughter and a missing hammer. The hammer smashes again. The crack goes through.

Color bleeds into Bianca’s world. The silvery grass and dark leaves turn green. The puddles and the sky turn blue. The dirt turns brown. The flowers on the hill turn varying colors of pink, red and yellow.

The hole in the glass isn’t large, but it’s enough for Bianca to lean her head through. Iris approaches and gently touches her forehead to Bianca’s.

Tears flow down Bianca’s rosy cheeks as she laughs in hysterical joy. Iris giggles softly too. Her golden hair intertwines with Bianca’s head of scorching red curls.

There’s a thud as someone falls to their knees in the background.

Story by Greta Schmitzer Design by Emily Miller

Light without its shadow wields waves of warbling warmth. The air is sticky caramel. Brightness, like a flashlight hitting the pupil–bullseye!–singes sight with bruises.

Shadow without its light slurps pigment from a straw–listen to it gulp! There’s a something that feels like nothing, telling our eyes to hush.

Light peeks into the darkness, resurrecting attention. Color furnishes vision and screams, “Look at me!”

Shadows trail sunlight, contouring the world’s curves, splotching the ground with stains–a haven from heat. Mimes seek shadows’ copy-cat caliber as silhouettes practice by our feet.

Light and shadow gaze at their complexions in the mirrors of their opposites, stroking each other’s egos, embracing their diversity.

Poem by Kaitlyn McGowan

Design by Emily Miller

Illustration by Campbell Lackey

the salt of the ocean// the sand of the shore

I’ve stood at the cusp of the earth where nothing but scuttling crabs and drifting gulls ever dare to wander there are no footprints at least, none that remain untouched by the passing waves the melting, running foam that leave everything and nothing in your hands the warmest grasp that tracks lines of salt on dried skin whispers and promises to never let go after the longest day with the most turbulent waters when words and smiles and sun have come and gone

traces of salt linger on my fingers like unexpected friends dropping by one afternoon for a few words exchanged turned into your heart spilled out and the longest goodbyes written across salt dusted palms bits and pieces of every hand that’s breached the surface of the water I stand ankle deep in shifting sands a boiling mud, simmering and settling over and over again the floor beneath me resets backwards and forwards, the shore is drawn deeper into the belly, the mother, the void I could be sinking or floating or maybe just beckoned

there’s always a point when you stand too long and you’ve forgotten exactly where your skin begins and the earth ends

I’ve been rubbed raw by the smallest of granules scraped to the bone by the piles of dust

I’ve walked the roads of millions across the globe sands carried over by the rolling sea traces of stories stuck in between my toes under my feet and up to my knees

I could close my eyes and listen to cymbals the rhythm of twirling ocean against tumbling shore, and let my ear reach for the other edge connected by water and salt and sand to touch those who stand where everyone and no one has stood before the land of the sea and the depths of the earth

Poem by Kayla Ehrlich Design by Soumya Kona

P RISM

spring 2022 magazine

front and back cover designs by emily miller