Abigail Luca, Ava Robbins, Bella Tabak, Chloe Rudnick, Ella Maniloff, Emily Refici, Isabella Tatone, Julia Paperny, KT Kelly, Madison Sherman, Morgan Magats, Rachel Musman, Rezi Ubogu, Rhylee Hudson, Sofia Westerman & Zoe Green
PRINT PHOTO DIRECTORS
VIDEO DIRECTOR
EXTERNAL DIRECTORS
TREASURER
PR DIRECTORS
LEAD STYLISTS STYLISTS
HAIR & MAKEUP DIRECTOR
HAIR & MAKEUP ARTISTS
SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR INSTAGRAM DIRECTOR
DIGITAL DIRECTOR
DIGITAL PHOTO DIRECTOR
PHOTO ASSISTANT
MANAGING DIGITAL EDITORS
DIGITAL SECTION EDITORS
MODELS POOL
SPORTS COUPLE
Diana Valdivia & Summer Stone Kennedy Mason
Mia Rosenzweig & Rhylee Hudson
Lindsey Lu
Starlyn Terry & Scarlett Luden
Julia Karasu & Willa Bradshaw
Ava Bandura, Martina Garcia, Shayla Ismael, Bella Tabak, Madison Sherman, Anna Sweeney, Arieza Maglalang & Spencer Shaw
Kelsey Aberbach
Maia Simmons & Rachel Musman
Morgan Magats
Katie Armlin
Maisy Wood
Malcolm Taylor
Ava Swidler
Elena Fliszary & Chloe Rudnick
Rezi Ubogu, Kendall Luther, Alexis Landrini, Hailey Roy, Nola Hollyer, Madison Mayr, Eliana Rosen
Olyma Jolie Desarmes, Mira Ledermueller, Tiffany Hyon, Superia Clark & Chole Jones
Morgan Magats, Jourdan Corker, Nathan Yeboua & Ridhaa Sait
Contents
LIFE
design: Sofia Floresca
Dear Readers,
I’m not only super excited to share this edition with you, but I’m also incredibly grateful. Grateful to know that I’m not the only one who feels the need to challenge the rules all the time. Grateful to have a whole organization supporting the idea that we don’t need to be perfect. Grateful to break barriers instead of trying to overcome them. When you think about it, everyone is a rule breaker, even when they don’t try to be. I believe everyone has the opportunity to make their mark on the world, and that’s what I want you to think about when reading this edition of University Girl. Be the difference, whether it’s in your group of friends, your classroom, your workplace, or the world around you.
The theme of rule-breaking is something that fits into everything: my youth, society, my surroundings, and most of all, myself. I don’t want to sound like my parents, but back in my day, I wasn’t the kid who sat quietly in her seat. Between my ADHD kicking in and my constant need to make an impression, I never followed the rules. I often wonder what I’d be like today if I had followed those guidelines. Would I have been more successful, more unhappy, or more valued? But then again, the person
I’ve become is someone who thrives on having her voice heard, which seems to be turning out better than I ever hoped. The desire to carve out my own path has led me to challenge myself, and I hope you’ll all challenge yourselves as well.
As you’ll see in this edition, we explore how rule-breaking affects society. Whether it’s in a male-dominated field, in fashion, or even in relationships, it’s fascinating how often we focus on following the rules, especially when it comes to stereotypical expectations. Yet, the most significant progress and change often come from those who dare to defy them. Whether it’s women pushing boundaries in maledominated industries or testing societal norms in relationships, breaking the rules has been a catalyst for growth and transformation throughout history. Remember that.
I would love to thank someone who is not only my co-editor-in-chief but also my friend, idol, and an example I strive to follow. Thank you, Bella Tabak, for your passion and your ability to always have the right answer. You’ve made this year unforgettable by being by my side. I’d also like to thank my three creative directors individually. I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know each of you and becoming closer than I ever imagined. Ava Bandura, I’m so grateful for the opportunity to work alongside such a talented individual. You always know what looks best. Rachel Musman, your eagerness to make everything the best it can possibly be is truly inspiring, and it pushes me to do my best. Shayla Ismael, I can’t thank you enough for perfecting concepts I would never have thought of. I can’t wait to see all that you’ll achieve in the future.
Thank you to our amazing digital director,Maisy Wood, for being so efficient with everything you do. A special mention to our managing copy, copy, and digital editors: Abigail Luca, Elena Fliszary, Chloe Rudnick, Madison Sherman, and Hannah Karlin for organizing and bringing everything together
to make sure this magazine comes out strong. We couldn’t have done it without any of you.
A huge thank you to the incredibly talented Diana Valdivia and Summer Stone, our print photography directors, Ava Swidler and Malcolm Taylor, our digital photography directors, and Kennedy Mason, our brilliant videographer. Your work beautifully showcases the essence of our theme and ideation. A heartfelt thank you to Julia Karasu and Willa Bradshaw, our visionary lead stylists, whose creative expertise brought the stylish side to life. Starlyn Terry and Scarlett Luden, our PR directors, for your strategic insights and tireless efforts to ensure our message reached the right audience. Mia Rosenzweig and Rhylee Hudson, our external directors, have made everything possible from every standpoint to encapsulate the community of our magazine.
To the creative, visionary Sofia Floresca, our brilliant design director. Everything in this magazine is beautiful and eyecatching because of you.
And finally, a huge thank you to the entire executive team and the incredible general staff at University Girl for your unwavering belief in this vision and for turning it into something real. I see the road ahead is full of success, and I’m deeply grateful for the experience we’ve shared along the way.
With love,
Julia Paperny
LETTERS FROM THE
design: Sofia Floresca
Dear readers,
Maybe you break the rules by dressing outside of gender norms, or you could ditch the dating apps. You could push back against harmful political rhetoric or fight the peer pressure to drink and sip on a mocktail instead. You could chase your dream job, even if it doesn’t come with a hefty paycheck. However you choose to break the rules, we are here to continue these conversations.
One of our creative directors, Shayla Ismael, pitched the idea to focus on the bold and unapologetic for this edition. Telling the stories of those who are challenging norms and forging their own path. Those who are breaking barriers in fashion, beauty, career and culture. I almost immediately fell in love with this idea. In a political landscape where including minority groups may be seen as breaking the rules, it’s a timely topic. This edition is for those who call themselves rule-breakers.
This edition’s photography was captured by the talented Diana Valdivia and Summer Stone. They set their lenses on scenes planned by our talented team of creative directors, Rachel Musman, Ava Bandura, Anna Sweeney and Shayla Ismael. Our first two shoots push the boundaries of gender within clothing and accessories, from suits and ties to heels and lacrosse sticks. The outfits for these shoots, and our rebellious library lovers in our third shoot, were put together by our style team and directors Julia Karasu and Willa Bradshaw. Kelsey Aberbach, our hair and makeup director, made final touches to ensure our models were camera-ready.
Thank you to our graphics team and director Sofia Floresca for seamlessly stitching together our words with our visual content, and to our passionate team of editors, Abby Luca, Madison Sherman and Hannah Karlin, who made sure our articles were ready to hit the page. Lindsey Lu, our treasurer, guided our finances for fundraising and printing this edition. Mia Rosenzweig, our external director, was a large help in bringing our beloved dating show fundraising event to our audience.
I also want to say thank you to my co-
the normative molds. If we do, we can tell stories that would have never been told. My interview with queer artist Lindsey Cherek Waller in this edition is just one example. But images can also tell stories. I will never forget when one of our PR directors, Starlyn Terry, reached out to me last semester. She expressed her excitement at being able to see beautiful girls of all backgrounds on our cover, which she had not experienced when she was a freshman originally interested in the publication.
University Girl a more inclusive space was one of the main goals I set when I took this role. If breaking the rules is what it takes to make everyone feel welcome into the UGirl community, then I would break them tirelessly, again and again. I hope that this edition inspires you to challenge ideas that don’t align with your hopes for the world as well. Happy reading!
With love, Bella Tabak
EXECUTIVE STAFFSPRING 2025
design: Sofia Floresca
bella tabak julia paperny sofia floresca
musman ava bandura shayla ismael
abigail luca hannah karlin madison sherman
diana valdivia summer stone kennedy mason
rachel
UGirl Picks
design: Sofia Floresca
Converse Chuck 70 De Luxe Heel in Black $120
Sister Outsider
By Audre Lorde $27
Glossier Ultra Lip in Vesper $22
Stacked by Suzie Electric Feel Stack Huggie Hoop Earrings in Gold/Black $25
Isle of Paradise Self Tanning Face Drops in Medium $29
design: Sofia Floresca
Is it just an OUTFIT or is it a MESSAGE?
Artists are turning fashion into a powerful extension of their music, challenging norms and redefining “rules.”
words:
When an artist steps on stage, our eyes immediately go to their outfit. It’s just how our brains are wired. In today’s music industry, clothing choices don’t just define artistry—they’ve become a crucial part of an artist’s branding. Let’s play the association game. Billie Eilish: baggy clothing and the Blohsh emblem. Lady Gaga: meat dress. Chappell Roan: drag queen attire. Madonna: cone bra. But here’s the thing—the game is being played all wrong. Associations shouldn’t be just to clothing choices; first and foremost, artists should be tied to their music. Billie: Hit Me Hard and Soft, her newest seven-time Grammy-nominated album. Gaga: her hit song Abracadabra and her new album release. Chappell: her new single, The Giver, and how she had an entire Lollapalooza audience singing Pink Pony Club. Madonna: a music icon whose reinventions, from Like a Virgin to Blonde Ambition, shaped pop culture. These are the reasons artists have become household names, with their clothing choices being only a fraction of what defines their artistry.
Each artist is a brand that needs to be nurtured and marketed. But for some, like Chappell or Billie, it’s less of a marketing scheme and more a display of authenticity that, by chance, perfectly ties together their branding.
“I think that those are two women who are pushing the boundaries of pop music. It’s like their look reflects their sound and vice versa,” said Christine Werthman, the Managing Editor of Billboard, when asked her opinion on how they defy fashion norms.
The two are opposites. Billie embraces her street style on stage, relaying the message that comfort is just as powerful as high fashion in defining one’s identity. Meanwhile, Chappell dresses to the nines in drag for every public appearance, embracing bold self-expression.
Chappell’s drag-inspired style is not just about fashion; it challenges gender norms and embraces fluidity in both fashion and identity. By incorporating drag into her public appearances and performances, she has elevated it beyond a cultural movement, transforming it into a mainstream artistic statement.
Through fan culture, we are deeply influenced by our favorite artists, with some wanting to replicate exactly what their idols do, wear, or say. In Chappell’s case, the message she conveys to fans is to embrace their
true selves without fear of judgment. For fans, this is addictive; for the music industry, it’s a game changer. In essence, her closet has acted as a catalyst for conversations about gender expression, making it a crucial part of her artistic identity and shaping music culture.
Sometimes, we are left wondering: Is it just an outfit, or is it a message? For Chappell, fashion is undeniably a message. Her wardrobe isn’t just a collection of clothes; it’s an ongoing conversation with her audience about embracing who you are without apology. But in Billie’s case, there is no hidden message, besides the fact that her stage style is the same as her day-to-day outfit choices, serving as a technique to help her feel comfortable on stage. Entering the industry at 14 made Billie’s style an immediate point of discussion. It became a signature –one that shielded her from scrutiny, allowed her to exist in the industry on her terms, and impacted girls of all ages.
“Discovering Billie as a young teenager in middle school, her unusual style choices inspired me to have the confidence to express myself how I wanted to, regardless of what other people would think,” said Maddy Drykerman, a freshman in Syracuse’s Bandier program and a die-hard Billie Eilish fan with a Blohsh tattooed above her ankle. “Beginning my teenage years with this mindset set me up to embrace my style and my own persona with no shame.”
Fashion has always been a tool for artists to convey more than just style; it’s a statement, a reflection of their music and an expression of their individuality. For decades, icons like Madonna and Lady Gaga revolutionized the music industry, using fashion as a way to challenge expectations and redefine what it means to be a pop star. Today, Billie Eilish and Chappell Roan are a few of the many carrying that torch forward, continuing to push boundaries with their distinct and fearless approaches to style.
As Werthman put it, “To have these, and I said this so lovingly, these pop weirdos be at the forefront, it truly is thrilling. They are taking pop music in such interesting new directions.”
After all, the Madonnas and Gagas walked so the Billies and Chappels could run. And sometimes, running can prove that breaking the rules— or defying norms—is the most powerful way to challenge them.
Chloe Rudnick | design: Maisy Wood
5 Ways to be a Fashion Rulebreaker
After a conversation with Sophie Cohen (@stylewithsoco)—the ultimate fashion rule breaker and queen of all things pink and vintage—we’re here to share her inside advice. words: Madison Sherman | design: Hannah Martin
More is More
Always add more. If you think it’s too much, make it even more. I love an outfit that has a lot of different elements going on; I love a piece that is very over the top. I’m always going to go for the sparkly over the black loafer.
Debunk the Staple Piece
The whole concept of staple pieces and basics is a myth. Every person has a different style. Everyone is going to have different things that become basics for them. We are constantly fed through the media, Instagram and the fashion industry that you need a white button-down; you need the perfect white tee; you need all of these basics. But, I realized as I grew older and into my things. I don’t like wearing black blazers. I don’t like wearing white button-downs. So, to me, those aren’t basics. My basics are my sparkly Miu Miu loafers. Your staple pieces are the pieces you gravitate towards. They don’t have to be simple or match with everything in your closet. Reframe basics as: What are your basics? What do you wear a few times a week?
Play with Patterns
Pattern mixing, texture mixing and logo mixing – it’s a fun way to create an interesting outfit and to try things that not everyone is trying. A leopard print and a stripe, or a polka dot and a floral. On the topic of patterns, I always say this (because it’s a bit controversial), but I love a logo. I love wearing designer logos. I know that’s totally taboo, but if I’m paying for Chanel, I want everyone to know. My Fendi bag in itself is a print that you can mix. If you’re going to wear a logo, stay true to it. You can wear different designers (obviously), but I think it gets a little tacky if you have a big Fendi, a big Chanel and then a big Louis Vuitton. Keep it to one logo, but make that logo loud and proud.
A Statement Piece Can Transcend the Test of Time
There is such power in re-wearing a statement piece over time because you can give it a new life. For example, I have this pink top that’s sparkly. It has shoulder pads. It’s really intense. But, I’ve worn it ten different times. You can artfully mix statement pieces into your everyday wardrobe; if you have a great top with a big puff sleeve, dress it up for your birthday, but then wear it with jeans to dinner. All of my statement pieces are pieces I found secondhand. Vintage is the way to go – it’s how you’re going to find the most unique pieces to stand out from the crowd.
The Best Inspiration Comes from Within
The biggest rule is to get inspiration from your life. The best source of inspiration is travel, your family history, the people in your life – and just from you. At the end of the day, the people who have the best, most interesting style are doing them, playing with things because they have ideas, not because they’re recreating someone else’s. It’s hard to get there when it comes to personal style. It takes many years of really following your gut. My advice for anyone struggling is to wear what makes you feel good. Get comfortable in your closet. Ask yourself: What do I want to put on every day? What do I like to wear? What is my heart and brain telling me to pick out regardless of what everyone else is wearing? Fashion is such a form of self-expression. When I leave the house, it’s my armor for
Ultimately, fashion rule-breaking looks different for everyone. In an industry that’s constantly chasing what’s new, now and next, standing out can feel impossible. True rulebreaking is all about embracing personal style, pushing against the status quo and doing it YOUR way. Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll master the art of fashion rule-breaking in no time!
ARE YOU A FASHION OR TRENDSETTER?
words: Ava Robbins | design: Laura Lopes
1) How do you feel about red lipstick?
I love it! Chic and fearless. It’s a little loud for the local bar, but perfect for a special occasion.
No thanks! Less is more when it comes to a lip.
2) You’re invited to an event with a cocktail dress code. What are you wearing?
A floor-length gown and fur coat—what’s wrong with a little attention?
A bold floral patterned mini dress!
A simple but classy mid-length dresssomething that my grandma would approve of!
3) What are your favorite colors to wear?
Anything! Bring on the bright reds, deep purples, calming blues and everything in between. It’s hard to say, it pretty much changes every day!
Black—I’m a sucker for basics.
4) You can only wear one pattern for the rest of your life—which one are you choosing?
Animal printfrom cheetah to zebra and everything in between! Polka dots—you can’t be basic in this adorable print.
Stripes—they’ll go with everything, right?
5) It’s peak summer time and vibes are high! Which bottoms are you wearing out?
Sequined micro shorts
A new mini-skirt
MOSTLY A’S: TRENDSETTER ALERT!
Chances are, whatever you wear today will be all the rage next week. You’re not scared to experiment, make your presence known, or have fun! You’re a walking Pinterest board and we wish our closet could be half as cool as yours!
Do you mix patterns? Rock white after labor day? Love a denim on denim moment?
6) Mixing metals, yay or nay?
Mixing metals all the way!
If I really love a piece, it doesn’t matter.
Not for me, strictly all silver or all gold.
7) It’s time for summer vacation! What are you rolling up to the airport in?
My best pair of jeans and favorite new tank top—I’m trying to be someone’s airport crush!
A comfy but cute monochrome sweatsuit.
8) What’s your dream purse?
Staud Beaded Handbag
Whatever t-shirt and pajama shorts I can find- who’s getting dolled up for a 9 a.m. flight?
Marc Jacobs Tote Bag Longchamp Pliage Tote
9) What shoes are you wearing on a night out?
Red bottom heels Knee-high black boots Nude flats from last season
10) Your bestie is picking you up for Pilates in 10 minutes—what look are you sporting?
An Alo Yoga bolero
Old reliable: your jean shorts from 8th grade
A Free People movement workout romper
Old reliable: your jean shorts from 8th grade
MOSTLY B’S: FASHION FOWARD AT IT’S FINEST
You toe the line between trendsetter and follower. You listen to your heart more than a dress code, so your outfit really depends on what you’re feeling each day. You’ll always leave the crowd in awe- nobody thinks they could pull off your pieces as good as you do!
MOSTLY C’S: YOU DONT JUST LIKE THE RULES YOU LIVE BY THEM
Some people may say you’re simple, but we think you’re sophisticated! Your closet is full of staple pieces and you know what you like! You value timeliness and are financially responsible for all your investments. Someone’s got to follow the trends, right?
Look good, feel good… It’s that simple. words: MorganMagats|design:Finley Banks
What does that even mean? It’s a phrase I’ve heard a million times, yet I still don’t know what it means.
Like many queer youth, I felt extremely lost when exploring my sexuality. On top of fear, I genuinely didn’t think I could be queer because of how I perceived myself. I had never seen a preppy, hyper-feminine girl who liked other girls. I look like; there was no representation for someone like me. If I didn’t look queer, how could I like girls?
I was truly horrified at the idea of being queer, so instead of conforming to my feelings, I tried to convince myself it wasn’t true. I thought: If I continued to dress the exact opposite of how society expected queer people to dress, I could extinguish all of these emotions. I filled my closet with the most feminine garments I could find, and I felt more and more out of place in my own body. If I didn’t dress gay, I couldn’t be gay. My style began to change, going through phases of blazers and jeans
A constantly evolving style has become depictive of ‘stereotypical queer style,’ transforming into dressing however you want. Through social media, our community has seen a robust outpour of styles and people that don’t fit into the traditional mold of what a queer person is supposed to look like. I see girls who dress like me and have the same feelings as me, something I never thought existed. Characters like Leighton Murray from The Sex Lives of College Girls were the first time I saw myself represented in media.
Being able to express who I am through fashion has become a meaningful art form. I often look back on old outfits, astounded that my friends didn’t tell me how awful they were. But, reflecting upon my horrific style choices, I realize my internal insecurities were unconsciously reflected externally. After examining thousands of mirror selfies, I’ve come to understand that the more comfortable I was in my sexuality, the more confident I was in my style. I stopped pressuring myself to dress in a certain way; I dressed how I wanted. I’ve reclaimed the hyper-femininity I once hid behind into a celebration of who I am. When someone tells me that I dress ‘too girly’ to be queer, I find it comical. I love femininity and want to surround myself with it, from how I dress to whom I want to spend the rest of my life with.
Gender and sexuality are often used interchangeably, when they are really two separate entities. Without understanding their differences, I was left feeling like I had to dress more masculine to prove who I loved, fearing I would lose my femininity. In reality, your gender and sexuality play a huge role in your social identity, but they work separately. Dressing a certain way does not denounce what you identify with.
Breaking down traditional style choices for the queer community has been a slow movement but one that holds so much power. Dressing and conforming to how society labels you can seem like the safest and easiest choice, even if it isn’t what makes you happy. Having a style that represents you is important — it’s the first thing people see when they look at you. Why wouldn’t you want it to represent who you are? Your clothing and style affirm your identity.
In time, I hope the idea of ‘dressing gay’ can turn into whatever you want it to be. I hope you won’t be confined to what society expects you to wear and find the confidence to break down harmful standards of matching a description created by stereotypes. When you look good, you feel good. No one should suffer from isolation because they don’t dress or look like what has been deemed ‘gay.’ The queer community is all about acceptance. Sexuality and style alike. Find your style, one that represents the real you!
The history of the garment and its impact. words: Zoe Green | design: Sasha Koth
Women have been breaking the rules for years, especially in fashion. In the early 19th century, women’s fashion was strictly dictated by gendered, societal expectations. Corsets, long skirts and dresses were the norm. Women wearing suits? The idea was shameful. Even trousers were unthinkable at this time. These pieces were reserved exclusively for men.
In the mid-19th century, the suffragette movement began to push for equality. It was at this point that women started to break the rules and challenge gender roles. While women still mostly wore dresses, some began to experiment with more practical clothing.
By the 1930s, women like Marlene Dietrich and Katharine Hepburn popularized looks like the “power suit,” which included trousers. During World War II, the demand for women in the workplace increased, and tailored pants and suits were needed for certain positions, creating a shift in society’s view of women. Not only did the perception of a woman’s capability change, but their wardrobes were changed as well.
When the feminist movement started to gain momentum in the ‘60s and ‘70s, women’s wardrobes began to change. In 1966, Yves Saint Laurent introduced the “Le Smoking” tuxedo suit — a tailored tuxedo designed for women. The ‘80s saw the rise of the power suit for women, especially in the corporate world. Women like U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg wore suits, representing the strength of women in authority. With broad shoulders, bold lines and a “masculine” cut, these suits became symbols of a woman’s power and professionalism.
In the ‘90s and the 2000s, suits for women became more varied and less rigid, with more options that still allowed for a “feminine” touch. Designers like Carolina Herrera and Donna Karan were known for offering stylish suits made for inside the office and outside strutting the streets.
Today, many women rock the suit look. From low-cut blazers with no shirt underneath to three-piece, women have taken this item of clothing and made it their own. Suits have been seen on the red carpet, in the workplace and on the street. We can look to celebrities like Emma Watson or Zendaya, who have used suits to continue to push boundaries. These garments have opened doors for women to be different than society has told them to be and try new things that they have never thought they could do before.
Styling suits can seem scary, but it’s nothing to fear! Try pairing colors and cuts that accentuate your figure and your personality. Patterns may be your thing, or they may not be. Maybe add a cute handbag and matching heels. If you’re striving to reference the rulebreakers of the past, a suit may be right for you. We can crack the conventional feminine mold. If you don’t think you could pull off a suit, I dare you to give it a try.
Lindsey Cherek Waller with An interview
Painting our modern, political landscape.
words: Bella Tabak | design: Lily Zuckerman & Sofia Floresca
What We Bring To The Table is a new collection of paintings addressing heavy political themes of queer and women’s rights through bright, colorful brushstrokes. Lindsey Cherek Waller, the artist behind the collection with over ten years of experience, is a queer artist located in Charollette, NC. We met virtually to talk about their most recent collection and other opportunities within the art industry.
How would you describe your art to those who have never seen your work before? Who do you think your intended audience is?
I would describe it as a colorful and playful documentation of queer existence in real time and queer joy. I’m a painter through and through. I do a little bit of sculptural work and installation work, but mostly painting is my jam. Number one is queer people. My audience is queer community, for sure. Queer and trans people. But you don’t have to be queer to enjoy it. I feel like it is for anybody who resonates with it. I make my art for myself, first and foremost, and then also to reach my queer community and connect with queer people over space and time.
That’s awesome. I feel like our political landscape is something that can be seen through your artwork. Are there political references that have inspired your work, or is it more from your own experience living as a queer woman in the South?
Yeah, so it’s funny. I recently moved to the South. We moved, like, six months ago. I was in the Midwest most of my life, like, the rural Midwest, and so that shaped a lot of my work. I feel like most of my work is rooted in that kind of rural upbringing. And experiencing homophobia most of my life just based on, like, the structures that are expected of us, like, being raised as a woman in a small town in the middle of nowhere, and, like, just the expectations and roles that were placed on me. And then rejecting those things and realizing that, like, I am more than what is being asked of me. I think a lot of my work is, like, a way for me to process where I’m from and the world that we’re living in. I do make a lot of paintings that kind of symbolize and signify the complicated political times that we’re in. Also, I believe the personal is political, like, everything about our lives is political, and a lot of people don’t even think like that. They think it’s like the separate circus that they participate in once every four years. It’s like, no, your entire existence is political.
THE COST OF EGGS
I was first introduced to your work through TikTok with the piece that you titled The Cost of Eggs. What inspired you to create it?
That one was me thinking about living as somebody whose autonomy is at risk and who is biologically female. There’s a lot of conversations happening in the world about biology and gender, and I reject, like, everything that they’re saying. I believe that gender is a social construct and that it’s not related to our biology, and also, like, sex itself is a binary social construct. But I’ve just been thinking about all of these political conversations and how heavy it is. There are people that I love that voted against our autonomy and our rights for, like, cheaper eggs. Truly, it
came down to cheaper grocery prices, which is wild to me. I think that’s really silly and insulting, but I made that piece because I was just reflecting on what people care about and what we’re at risk of losing a lot right now in our country. And it’s scary, but we still have to continue to participate in capitalism and go grocery shopping. Right now, nothing is getting better about our daily lives, and we’re having these, like, wild conversations about what parts of people’s identities apparently matter and are being federally governed. I think we could have a very different world if we had different priorities.
I do think that it’s so important, too, to be able to have these conversations and to be able to think about these things in a more palatable way. To be able to look at a piece of artwork may be more accessible.
Yeah, I think so, too. I think accessibility to critical thought is really important. Even the idea of, like, critical thinking is being challenged these days. Education is being challenged and it’s a really scary time to have conversations. It makes it more important for these conversations, or these ideas, to be accessible and palatable, like you said. That’s important to me as a painter to also make things that somebody can look at. And they’re invited to look at it because they like the colors and, like, the aesthetic of it. But then once you look at it and you understand it through the context clues of symbolism, it hits you, and you can really feel it. That’s really powerful, and I think artists have always been the leaders in that way throughout history. Art has always been political and always reflected the times.
Have you brought this collection to galleries and talked to people about what they thought about it?
Yeah, actually, so I’m in North Carolina. It’s in a gallery like, two hours away in South Carolina right now. It’s at a university and I was really nervous about it at first because it’s a Christian university. So I was like why are they inviting me to be an artist here? I was a little nervous about it but I was like, they know my work based on their invitation, I’m just gonna stay true to me. So I made this body of work to show there and then I showed up and we had the gallery reception and, like, half of the students were visibly queer. and I was, like, oh, this is why! Because queer people exist everywhere.
Before I gave my spiel and talked to people at the opening, I had a couple of students come up to me and ask me, like, “What does this mean? Like, why did you paint this?” And it was the Making Plans painting with the large tablescape. There’s white and red stripes on the tablecloth, and there’s, like, an arrangement of different objects about the things that we’re at risk of losing. There’s a passport that references the shadow of the travel ban for trans people right now. There are contraceptives. There are little symbols of what I’m afraid of, what my fears are. And then that’s kind of, like, pushed up against joyful imagery of oysters and a martini. So, it’s a community gathering of us making plans of how to survive this. And when I explained that, they were, like, “Oh, my god, I get it.”
What was it like working with Urban Outfitters and having them feature your work?
Oh, it’s been great. Yeah, I’ve been licensed with them for almost three years now, and I am really grateful for it. I was hesitant at first because I always think about capitalism and talk about capitalism in my work. And so I was kind of like, oh, like, do I really want to sell my work with the capitalists that I’m critiquing? But I think that it’s important for me to reach a worldwide audience as a queer artist. And I made sure that, like, my artist statement and my titles stay the same so that kind of representation reaches people. It’s a really fantastic, like, partnership. I have connections with a lot of people who found me through Urban. And yeah, I love licensing my work. I think it’s a nice kind of side gig for my fulltime artist job.
Are there any other like brands that you work with where you’re like, oh my god, they’re so amazing?
Yeah, I can’t say who yet because we’re still, like, waiting on the launch of our collaboration. But it will be soon. I actually just had my art on luxury handbags. I’m really excited. Two of the designs were in Paris Fashion Week. And I think we’re doing a couple more designs, too, that we’re finalizing. And then, once everything is finalized, we’re going to launch on their website. But it’s a beautiful luxury handbag company based in Paris. So I’m pretty stoked about it. I can say that much. I just can’t tell you who yet. It’s been really fun to take on jobs like that. It’s like, they find me because of my work, and they resonate with what I’m making. It is because I’m just like authentically sharing this artwork, you know what I mean? Like, I’m not censoring myself when I share it. So it’s really validating when brands like that find it, and then they want to work with me. And yeah, it’s always fun to partner with people, too.
What advice would you give to other queer artists?
My advice would be to know yourself, stay true to who you are, and continue to share yourself authentically and courageously with the world. Because the world needs you as you are.
MAKING PLANS
design: Sofia Floresca
PASSION
OVER PAYCHECK
Following a career path that inspires you.
words: Sofia Westerman | design: Lily Zuckerman
Choosing passion in the workforce can be a tricky decision. Students are plagued with stereotypes confining success to STEM and business fields, concluding that pursuing creative fields will cause financial struggle. But monetary value does not always translate to overall well-being.
Passion evokes emotion, desire, and enthusiasm. If you dream of working in the fields of biology or information technology, you go, girl! Unfortunately, not everyone’s passion has a “bang for your buck,” and fields such as liberal and performing arts tend to be low-paying ventures.
Now, I am not saying that you can’t be successful and pursue your passions. The majority of our magazine’s staff are in communication-related fields, and we dominate. Passion fuels motivation, and being content with your profession can boost productivity, performance and drive. If you are immersed in your field of choice, your joy will lead to personal fulfillment and, hopefully, to the achievement of your career goals.
I understand that choosing between completely different career paths can be overwhelming, as I have done it myself. I chose to be a writer over a doctor. Going into college, I assumed that I was going to complete my psychology degree, go to medical school and become a psychiatrist. But deciding to double major in journalism completely changed the trajectory of my career path. I’ve always loved writing, but I never thought of this as a viable career option, primarily deeming it as “just a hobby.” But why shouldn’t your hobbies turn into your future job? Recognizing that my passion for journalism went beyond a sideline interest made me realize that this would be the profession I would be happiest spending my life doing.
On the other hand, you don't always have to choose! Landsey Solis, who studies at Whitman with a fashion design minor, said integrating her artistic interests into her career was essential.
Solis originally started out as a finance major but found herself needing a creative life jacket to save herself from drowning in numbers. She reminisced on her childhood days of sewing classes and realized that her passion for fashion design and curation might be more than a hobby.
“Although I pursued a degree in business, my passion for fashion has always been a driving force. I've always believed that creativity and structure can coexist. Business and fashion are intertwined in a way that transcends traditional boundaries,” said Solis.
By combining her personal interests with a substantial background, Solis can feel confident in her career path while staying true to herself. As an indecisive person myself, this is the perfect way to incorporate dedication into your studies; actively learning and immersing yourself in your passions can make working that much more enjoyable.
“Fashion has always been more than just a career choice for me—it's an expression of who I am. It keeps my creative spirit alive and reminds me that there's always room for innovation, even in the business world,” said Solis.
Paychecks are undeniably an important factor when deciding how you want your future to go, and financial struggles are not something to gloss over. But happiness should be the ultimate decider, as a career can carry you through the rest of your life.
Think about going to a job every day for the next 20 years. Or about what would make you excited get up every morning. Think about professional commitment would make you feel inspired rather than burdened. If you can pick your passion paycheck, run with it.
Your success is measured in your fulfillment, not in the extra zeros at the end of your net worth.
In a world full of male-dominated fields, there is always the outlier of the woman. Women of the past have paved the way for the young girls of today by finding success in different fields. However, women have been taught to live by societal expectations, especially within the classroom. Society has conditioned women to believe they should idolize men, who are labeled as “more capable” of success. Yet, realistically, women have to work harder just to be given the same opportunities as men, so where is our credit?
It’s not okay to belittle women while uplifting men, making women feel they are inadequate and unable to accomplish their goals. Reality check: women have every right to exist confidently in any space. They should not have to settle for secondary jobs in a field because their gender comes with limitations. Settling for less than what is deserved is a forced habit of women. Many women take on jobs, such as nurses, secretaries or waitresses, not because that’s their main objective, but because they view these roles as the only reachable option. Now, more than ever, it is vital that all women understand their right to become doctors, CEOs and restaurant owners.
The efforts of women have long been criticized across multiple domains. When it comes to academics, preconceived biases hold many women back, pushing men ahead. At Syracuse University, male-dominated fields include broadcast and digital journalism, sports management, S.T.E.M. and majors within Whitman.
“In my major, I feel pressured mostly by social media or from what I see online,” said Katherine Hubbard, a current junior studying Sports Management at Syracuse. “The professors luckily want women in the class and want to foster an equal environment.”
The male-to-female ratio in classes is about 80 to 20, according to Hubbard.
It’s a universal feeling: as a woman speaking up in the classroom, you feel judged as a “know-it-all” or “loudmouth,” even if your statement is absolutely warranted. When men speak, they are most likely to be perceived as confident and well-prepared. We need to ditch these outdated social norms; everyone’s class comments are important.
Sports management, like many other sports-related areas, is heavily male-dominated. Yet, this should not discourage young women from becoming involved. Stigmas surrounding what is considered masculine or feminine interests need to be tackled
head-on. Gender should never feel like a barrier blocking a woman from achieving the same level of success as a man. Your passion and talent should be the driving forces, and this goes for all majors.
“I learned a lot about the dynamics of my major and that I’m not the type of person to sit behind a computer and not speak,” said Hayley Gold, a sophomore in computer science. “I feel like because I am a woman and have communication skills that other people in my field may not have, I will be able to succeed.”
A woman’s work ethic also helps challenge these generalized gender assumptions. Highlighting your strengths not only sets you apart from the crowd but also solidifies your confidence. In the classroom or your profession, taking advantage of your unique talents is the key to making connections, meeting your targets and making your mark, especially in areas where your dedication can often be overlooked.
“I’ve had older people question whether I’d be able to succeed in a male-dominated field like computer science, IT and security, but that never stopped me. It’s always motivated me to work even harder and prove I belong in this space,” said Eda Imer, a junior majoring in information management and technology with a concentration in cybersecurity.
Being a woman in a male-dominated field of study can present a unique challenge but can also be rewarding. It can be difficult to face a class that is full of men, but being able to keep your head held high fortells perseverance and a future of tackling any challenge that might come your way. Take the leap; know that you may become an inspiration to younger girls who want to do the same. Let that be the courage you need.
“I was a computer science major my freshman year, and though that came with obstacles and assignments that felt never-ending, I persevered. I would tell my freshman self that it’s okay to try everything and learn but to listen to my gut, as the workload definitely drained me,” said Imer. “The best piece of advice I can give anyone reading this is that nothing worth having is ever given. It is earned through hard work, perseverance and patience.”
Although challenges may persist, it is important to remember that you are strong and equally worthy of every opportunity. Choose the path of your dreams, and do not limit yourself because of gender biases. Make being a woman your biggest advantage.
MORE THAN JUST AN ATHLETE
Exploring the realities of being a D1 athlete. words: Rhylee Hudson & Bella Tabak design: Maisy Wood
Chloe Betha-Jones is a junior defensive player for Syracuse’s lacrosse team. She credits her insane stickwork to growing up in Maryland, a huge lacrosse state. During our interview, we chatted about how lacrosse has always been more than a game—it’s an outlet, a community and a way to redefine what it means to be a Black woman in a predominantly white sport.
Obviously, you play lacrosse. How was your recruiting process?
My process was very unique, I could say. I was recruited during COVID. So everything that I did was over Zoom, and I had to kind of make decisions about where I wanted to go for the next four years of my life before I could even, like, visit the places or meet people in person. It happened very quick also. September 1st was the first day that coaches could contact me. And after that, I had Zoom meetings like every day, all day, on top of having class. So it was definitely a lot. But I feel like Syracuse just gave me that sense of home. It made me feel like that’s exactly where I wanted to be. It had always been my dream school, too. So, talking to those coaches and getting to know them, understanding the values and the morals of the team, I knew that that’s exactly where I wanted to be.
So you’re a junior, and what’s your major?
Biology pre-med.
How is that with being a D1 athlete?
Very, very time-consuming. So when I’m not playing lacrosse, I’m doing homework most of the time. But I love biology and I want to be a doctor someday. So you got to do what you got to do at this point. I think there is a stigma around athletes in general, like, especially in the classroom, just that, like, you know, athletes don’t really apply
themselves or that they care more about their sport than they do academics, which is, I would say, the opposite of who I am. I feel like I care a lot about my academics and just as much as I care about lacrosse. So I think some professors give you a hard time, but the stigma around it is not true. I know more athletes who care about their academics than those who don’t care.
Do you have any athlete fashion icons?
I don’t have specific players, but I think women’s basketball right now are great examples of, like, being an athlete and still being able to dress up and look nice. I think that there are a lot of different players with a lot of different unique styles. And their pregame outfits are always so fun to look at. The part that I like the most about it is that there’s not one specific style or one specific thing that everyone’s wearing, or one specific look that everyone is trying to achieve. I think it’s very tailored to who the player is and who the person is. And that’s one of the main reasons why I love it so much because you get to see who these players are as people outside of who they are on the field. And you see it through clothes, which is one of the things that I love about it. So yeah, because I feel like a lot of the time, people can sometimes think of athletes as just a player.
With a sport like lacrosse, since it’s so team-focused, how do you showcase individuality?
I think every player has a uniqueness about them. And I think me specifically; lacrosse is a predominantly white sport. So my skin color, in general, kind of does that on its own. Like, I stand out no matter what. But, I think with that, it also allows me to become the player that I want to be. You know there are sort of stereotypes around
black lacrosse players. I think that my ability to play at such a high level allows me to break that stereotype while also being a role model for other young girls who look like me.
We kind of just talked about this, seeing those young black girls play, and like young black people, play lacrosse. Do you have a specific message for them?
I always say, don’t feel discouraged that people don’t look like you; use it as an opportunity because you’re going to stand out no matter what, and use that spotlight to do something that other people aren’t doing. Use your strengths, no matter what they are, whether it be speed, actual strength or stickwork, use it to the best of your ability. And don’t let anyone tell you what you can and can’t do and what positions you can and can’t play.
What’s one moment in your lacrosse career where you felt like a total badass?
I was in high school, and this team that we played was ranked above us. And I think we were one and two or something like that. And it was a big deal because the girl I had just committed to Syracuse and the girl and the other team had just committed to Boston College. So it was kind of just me and the other girl going back and forth and back and forth the entire game. Yeah, which is crazy. And I feel like that was a game where I really felt like a badass because I don’t know, I felt like the whole game was surrounded by like, what we were doing and how we were playing against each other. And we were face guarding each other. And she was playing defense on me. I was playing defense on her. It was just very back and forth. It was an exciting game to be in.
ATHLETE “ “
Playing at such a high level allows me to break that stereotype but also be a role model for other young girls who look like me.
A Letter to My Freshman Sister
words: Rachel Musman | design: Tess Cosgrave
To my freshman sister,
Having you join me at Syracuse this past year has been nothing short of amazing. Being a senior while you are a freshman has made me nostalgic about my own years in college, watching you go through the experiences that have shaped me into who I am today. Witnessing your growth has almost felt like watching an alternate version of myself, and although I still have so much to learn, I wanted to leave you with some big-sisterly advice. There is immense pressure to “do college right,” but I want to remind you that the best moments often come from doing it wrong.
There Is No Such Thing as the ‘Perfect’ College Experience
Newsflash: No one actually “does college right.” Some people are just better at faking it. As you enter your sophomore year, I urge you to accept this. College is not a one-size-fits-all experience. Do it your way and try to tune out the noise of everyone else. Whether it is not joining a club, having a set friend group, landing a dream internship by sophomore year or simply even loving all of college, following your own needs and desires will lead you closer to where you are meant to end up. When I was entering my sophomore spring, everyone seemed to be talking about how they were going to study abroad during their junior year. I was very interested in having a study abroad experience, but with my last-minute decision to add a dual major, I was unable to go for an entire semester. I ended up choosing to study abroad in the summer, entering the program totally on my own. Despite some FOMO during my junior year spring, I can confidently say that it was one of the most rewarding experiences that I had in college. Things in your life will happen when they are meant to, whether it’s studying abroad or anything else that may come your way.
Your GPA Doesn’t Define You, So Stop Letting It Now, don’t get me wrong; this section of my guide isn’t about telling you not to work hard. Put your all into your academics; however, do not let grades dictate your happiness. If self-care one day looks like locking yourself in a Bird Library study room– amazing. But if some days it looks like skipping class and staying in bed– I am all here for that too. Sorry to break it to you, but you will receive a disappointing grade in college. Although it sucks, I encourage you not to beat yourself up over it. You will be okay if you fail one exam or miss one class– your life is not ruined. Learning is more than just classes. It’s clubs, extracurriculars and all of the other special experiences college has to offer. Do not overload yourself with more than the average number of classes or extremely hard courses all at once. Leave room in your life for all of the other ways you can learn– even your social life. Give yourself some grace.
Not Everyone You Meet Is Meant to Be in Your Life Forever—And That’s Okay
Sometimes, the friends we make will be temporary, and that can be a good thing. In the way experiences in college come when they are meant to, the same applies to friendships. Every relationship we have teaches us something about ourselves. What makes a friendship feel good, what makes you feel like the best version of yourself and so on. Personally, my best friend has taught me that I feel my best around people who are loyal, bubbly, and confident in who they are. She has never made me feel judged for being myself, and through our friendship, I’ve realized I thrive around positive, drama-free people who embrace life with excitement. The best friendships don’t make you question your worth—they remind you of it. If you find yourself in a friend group– that is awesome. But try to reassure yourself that “doing college right” does not have to look like having a perfect set-in-stone friend group that lasts all of college. This is easier said than done, though. Social media causes immense comparison to others who seem like they have it all. But in reality, most people are simply navigating who they are and who they want to surround themselves with, posting only the good and fun along the way. No matter what your social life looks like, I encourage you to continue meeting different people throughout all four years of college. Sometimes we have different friends for different reasons. Sometimes your ‘best friend’ only ends up being in your life for a few months. Relationships change as we do, and not everyone will fit into your life as you continue to grow. If you force people to be in your life when they don’t fit there anymore, you are taking up space that could be filled by people who are meant to enter it.
Stop Thinking So Much
Now, last, but certainly not least, stop thinking so much! It is human to spiral and overthink decisions, interactions and even simple text messages. But as a senior graduating in a couple of weeks, the decisions that seem so major in the moment probably do not matter a few years from now. Say yes to the dumb, random last-minute plans. They will probably end up being some of the best memories. Let yourself just go out some nights when you are on the fence. Remember that no matter how messy your room is, how long he has left you on open or how stressed you are about school, it will all be okay. Spoiler alert: no one knows what they are doing. Not freshmen, not seniors, not even the professors. Stop stressing about ‘figuring it all out’ because actually figuring it out is soaking in as many day-to-day experiences as possible. And lastly, you are allowed to change your mind. A LOT. Abby, or anyone else reading this, you have no idea how valuable the next few years of your college experience are about to be. Embrace all the changes, laughs, cries, late nights and take comfort in the fact that by doing things ‘wrong,’ you are actually doing it ‘right.’ So, live fully, messily and without regret. I love you more than words.
Big sisterly advice to all girls everywhere trying to do college “right.” XOXO, Your big sister, Rachel
words: Bella Tabak & Abby Luca | design: Hannah Martin & Sofia Floresca
The mason Jar mocktail
We can ditch liquor and the typical cocktail shaker. This lemonade-based drink is refreshing with an earthy flare. It's perfect for a sunny spring day or a chill pregame with friends.
- LEMONADE - GINGER JUICE - HONEY
- MASON JAR WITH LID -
ICE
1. Grab your mason jar
2. Add 1 tbsp of honey
3. Add 1 tbsp of ginger juice
4. Add 300mL of lemonade
4. Top off with a scoop of ice
5. Place lid on mason jar and shake
6. Remove lid and enjoy
ugirl recipes
The Everything Nice Cocktail
It’s said women are made of “sugar, spice, and everything nice,” yet too often the spice is left out of the recipe, especially when it comes to a drink. A “woman’s drink” has a habit of being fruity and sweet, dressed in pink and topped with a little umbrella. But who decided she can’t down a dark? Or that whiskey is masculine? Let me guess… a man? Spice things up and drown that noise out with our Everything Nice cocktail.
- HONEY JACK DANIELS - TRIPLE SEC
1. Grab your glass
-
CLUB
- ICE
SODA
- HOT HONEY - RED PEPPER FLAKES - ORANGE BITTERS
2. Glaze the rim with hot honey & red pepper flakes
3. Set aside
3. Grab a shaker and ice
4. Pour 2 ounces of honey & Jack Daniels
5. Pour 1 ounce of triple sec
6. Add 1 tbsp of hot honey & shake
7. Pour over new ice
8. Add a splash of club soda
9. Garnish with orange bitters and enjoy
TOP 10
BADASS SONGS
words: Chloe Rudnick & Rhylee Hudson | design:
Everyone has that song. You know, the song that you play when you’re strutting across campus and feeling powerful? The one you play while getting ready because you know you’re that girl? That single song that makes you feel so badass. The one that makes you feel like you’ll never take shit from anyone ever again? Yeah, we know you have one. Here at UGirl, we love to embrace confidence; it truly looks good on everyone.
So, here is a playlist that we play when we want to feel unstoppable.
Guess
Charli xcx featuring Billie Eilish
Revolving Door
Tate McRae
Bad Romance
Lady Gaga I love It
Icona Pop Luther
Kendrick Lamar feat. SZA
NOKIA Drake
That’s So True
Gracie Abrams
15 Minutes
Sabrina Carpenter
CATFISH
Doechii I Serve The Base
Future
Laura Lopes
design: Sofia Floresca
design: Sofia Floresca
Choosing Strength over Shrinking
Women in the gym defy what it means to be “feminine.”
words: Abigail Luca | design: Maisy Wood
Society has long ingrained a narrow definition of femininity, dictating how a woman’s body should look. For as long as I have been aware of my body, I have been aware of what is deemed wrong with it: my broad shoulders, thighs that expand like baking bread beneath me and a persistent baby-fat belly rounding where my hips begin.
Cultural norms have conditioned countless women, myself included, into a cycle of self-criticism. We’ve been taught to pick ourselves apart instead of build ourselves up. We crave hunger to be thin, consider boobs jobs at the ripe age of 15 to have perky tits and want an hourglass figure to feel sexy.
For women fed up with trying to squeeze into a dainty mold, the gym has flipped the script. Women should take up space— physically and metaphorically—without apologizing. Women in the gym have redefined what it means to “look like a girl,” “ play like a girl,” and “run like a girl.” Little girls should be taught that being strong and muscular is just as much a part of being a woman as anything else.
“Lift like a girl.”
Skinny has been the governing beauty ideal dominating mainstream media for decades. Even the dolls marketed to young girls, like Barbies, are designed with a slender silhouette, slim waist, long legs and exaggerated proportions. Their smile proudly peeks through their pinked lips, with blushed cheeks and winged eyes. These dolls serve as one of the earliest influences on body image, introducing the idea that femininity is something to be seen. From runway models to movie stars and the most adored influencers, the women most frequently idolized in society tend to fit a slim standard, reinforcing the idea that thinness can equate to desirability and even success.
The teenage years are a breeding ground for insecurities. The first half of mine was spent comparing my body to the bodies of women who men spoke highly of: Cover girls of magazines I flipped through at salons with my mom; Women at the beach who didn’t cover their stomachs with a towel when they sat; Women who were small. I was diagnosed with Anorexia Nervosa at 15 and spent years trying to conform to femininity built on fiction.
The second half of my teenage years was spent unlearning a set definition of what it means to look like a woman. The skewed
representation of women paraded in our culture has discredited alternative forms of beauty. Muscular and curvier bodies are often overlooked and ridiculed. Natural bodies are made to feel flawed. Women who aren’t willing to make themselves smaller to appease expectations are labeled as masculine and bulky, reinforcing the idea that femininity must be synonymous with fragility. After losing half of my body weight in the depths of my disorder, I’ve come to know what it truly means to be fragile. I never felt less like a woman than when I was weak.
Getting myself in the gym nurtured recovery and took a needle to the Barbie fantasy bubble. I switched my desire to control how much I ate with how much I moved. The pain in my ribs that once signaled my starvation evolved into satisfying soreness from a great workout; a signal of progress. Today, I admire the women who actively prove to the world that their worth is not measured by how little space they take up. I idolize the women who load another plate onto the bar for every critique society spits out.
Patriarchal biases have perpetuated the idea that women are inherently weaker than men, both physically and mentally. In the realm of fitness, the gym has been advertised to men as a place to build muscle and assert their masculine “dominance.” Meanwhile, women’s fitness is largely centered around weight loss, focusing on aesthetics rather than strength. Occasionally, a man will either compliment me or another female lifter while in the gym. They express surprise about how much weight is being moved– because they didn’t believe it could be. The compliments many women receive in the gym often stem from the sexualization of their bodies or an initial doubt about their bodies’ abilities. Women who lift are dismantling these longstanding misconceptions, proving that strength isn’t defined by gender.
The gym has redefined womanhood and has allowed women to embrace their capabilities, rather than reject their humanity. Every day, I see women lift twice their body weight, flex before mirrors reflecting a room full of men and grin at themselves with pride. Being a woman in the gym means sweating, grunting, pushing hard and commanding presence – behaviors frowned upon when compared to conventional ideas of what’s considered “lady-like.”
“Women that lift heavy things are more likely to stand up taller, use their voices and take no shit,” said Women’s Health.
S
Dating , A Lost Cause in Tinder's Toxic Trenches
Romance has left the building (and the 21st century) all thanks to dating apps robbing us of the passion of face-to-face flirting, chemistry, and attraction. It’s about time that we bring the art of dating back.
words: Rezi Ubogu | design: Tess Cosgrave
Do they really like you if they’re sliding into your DMs?
There, I said it. What we once knew as romance—the intensity of a stolen glance across a crowded room, the electric thrill of brushing past someone with just a touch—has been replaced by a thirsty TikTok comment or a slimy Instagram DM that will probably never even be opened.
This is where we find ourselves: drowning in the remains of what was once considered romantic, with some of us trying to land headfirst in a worthwhile relationship. The art of dating, defined by subtlety, vulnerability and anticipation, has transformed into a swipe or heart, and anything else is considered breaking the rules. But don’t think I’m giving up hope just yet. There’s still a chance for it to be revived, but the question is, are we brave enough to bring it back?
Here’s the real issue:
People have forgotten how to flirt.
Technology hijacked the process, and now we’re left stumbling around in the dark. Even Tinder, the app that has made dating a spontaneous adventure, has morphed into something…unexpected. Their recent advertisements have matches flirting—not across a dinner table, not during a cozy coffee date— but while both are hunched over their phones, inches away from one another, normalizing the cycle of this online dating prison. What happened to the raw, real thrill of face-to-face interaction? The rush of seeing someone’s eyes light up when they first spot you across the
room? That spark isn’t just gone, it’s been replaced by an algorithmic numbness that has made real connection an afterthought.
Studying relationships, sexology and human behavior at Syracuse University, with plans to become a sex and relationship therapist, I consider myself well-qualified to lead this conversation. So, I can’t help but see the “talking stage” as a symptom of a much bigger problem. What happened to actual dating? We’ve traded long, meaningful conversations for endless texting, half-hearted pictures and cringeworthy attempts to flirt that never quite land. The irony is almost laughable—dating apps, intended to bring us closer to real relationships, have instead built a barrier keeping us farther from true intimacy than ever. We can’t even make eye contact with someone in real life without retreating to the comforting safety net of our screens. And look, I’m the first to say, I’ve been there.
Let’s talk about flirting on these platforms because it’s not just bad— it’s tragic. I can’t tell you how many horror stories I’ve lived through. Or the stories I’ve heard of people trying to win others over with TikTok pickup lines. Don’t forget about the intrusive messages that are so far from charming, they’re downright pathetic. Where’s the romance, the effort, the vulnerability? Remember when men wrote passionate letters to their lovers in the glow of candlelight, when Emily Dickinson crafted poetic verses to convey her deepest emotions to her partner or when Romeo and Juliet exchanged heartfelt declarations of love? There was elegance, passion and humanity in those moments, now replaced by water emojis, unhinged texts and awkward in-person
encounters, leaving more reasons than ever to want to ditch the dating apps.
What we’re dealing with now isn’t romance—it’s transaction. Dating has become a detached process, lacking the intimacy of emotional connection. There’s no excitement in the process of getting to know someone, no anticipation of the slow burn of attraction, and absolutely no calculated subtlety in one’s intentions. It’s been replaced by instant gratification, cheap thrills and desperate attempts to grab someone’s attention. This isn’t romance; this is an algorithm designed to make us” feel” something— anything—so we’ll keep scrolling and maybe, just maybe, find someone.
But here’s where I refuse to completely lose hope: The art of dating can be revived—but it won’t happen unless we can step away from dating apps and rediscover what it means to truly connect. To look someone in the eye, to hear their voice, to be present. The magic of real romance isn’t dead— it’s just buried beneath the TikTok and Instagram comments and Tinder swipes, waiting for us to dig it out. The question is: Are we willing to put down our phones, turn off our notifications, and let ourselves experience something deeper than a forgettable text exchange? It’s time to face facts:
If you’re sliding into someone’s DMs and calling it romantic, you’re part of the problem.
Romance shouldn’t be something we have to open an app to experience; it’s something we need to live, not swipe through.
Female Film Icons
We seem to both adore and abhor the women we see on TV. Is it a deep-rooted jealousy or a reflection of our own flaws? Let’s take a look at our most loved and hated ladies of film:
Elle Woods Mulan Katniss
She’s beauty, she’s brains, she’s legally everything. Elle Woods is our reminder that being ultra-feminine and ultra-capable aren’t mutually exclusive. She didn’t just beat the system, she made it pink. From her iconic courtroom win to proving that a 179 average on the LSAT looks fabulous in a pair of pumps, Elle shows us that success isn’t about fitting in; it’s about standing out. - and being hot while you do-. Who says you can’t be taken seriously with a chihuahua in your bag?
A story of shattered gender norms and expectations, Mulan is the epitome of a rule breaker. Forget waiting around for Prince Charming to save you; she picked up a sword, disguised herself as a man, and saved China. Her story is the ultimate girl power anthem, proving that bravery comes in all forms and that women can be our own saviors. Mulan didn’t fight for glory, she fought for the people she loved and for herself. Her strength was striking, but it was her heart and perseverance that made her an icon. Plus, she gave us the
Everdeen
The queen of rebellion and the literal face of the revolution, Katniss Everdeen is that girl. She didn’t sign up to be everyone’s hero, she wanted to save her sister and survive. But, when needed most, Katniss stepped up, becoming a force to be reckoned with. She’s proof that courage doesn’t mean not being afraid; it means standing up even when you are. Her character is relatable and real, showing us that women can be a powerful
White coat. Red wine. Fierce power. Olivia Pope can make problems disappear with a snap of her fingers. Her intelligence, confidence, and ambition make her the ultimate girl boss. She owns every room she walks into and commands respect all without raising her voice. Sure, she’s got her flaws (don’t we all?), but that’s what makes her so compelling. Olivia taught us that strong women can be complicated, emotional, and still absolute forces of nature; and she definitely made us all want to answer the phone with a dramatic, “It’s handled.”
The most iconic dictator of all time, Regina George. Yes, she’s the villain, but she’s also the masterclass guide to girl world politics. Her confidence, both utterly terrifying and admirable, teaches us that being a little bold can go a long way (just without the toxicity). She knows what she wants and makes sure she gets it. “Get in, loser. We’re going shopping.” Need I say more? Regina’s reign of terror gave us quintessential quotable moments and forever made Wednesday the day to wear pink. While we wouldn’t recommend her leadership style, Regina George will forever be an iconic queen of the screen.
Olivia Pope Regina George Miranda Priestly
Cold. Calculated. Chic. Miranda Priestly is not here to make friends, she’s here to make Runway magazine perfect. But underneath that ice queen exterior, there is a woman who fought her way to the top in a cutthroat industry. Miranda shows us that being a boss sometimes means making the tough calls, even when people think you’re heartless. Plus, no one, and I mean no one, can deliver a read quite like her.
These women, love them or loathe them, have left their mark. They’re complex, powerful, influential and simply unforgettable. Yes, they have flaws and make mistakes, but that’s what makes us human. Taking advantage of their situations and showing up as their badass, authentic selves is what makes them true icons.
That are nOt bOring asF
5. shOP ‘Till yOu dr–date
I always tell myself it’s important to live life legendary. Thank you, Barney Stinson. But when it comes to dates, they don’t always feel like I’m going above and beyond. I love making every moment feel special. Whether it’s something easy or totally out of the box, I’m always up for an experience that feels a little unexpected.
If you’re tired of the same old couch-movie-hangout, or the same reservation at the typical date spot in your college town or city, here are seven date ideas that bring butterflies to my stomach, even after over a year of dating and a close connection.
1. Travel, ObviOusly
Okay, hear me out. This doesn’t have to be a two-week-long vacation to Europe (unless you want it to be). Consider something as simple as a weekend trip to a nearby city, a spontaneous road trip to a quaint town or an area that neither of you has explored to make it that “firsttime” date. These ideas can even lead to a recurring tradition of going back every year. I’m one to go planless, because I find spontaneity more exciting than a strict schedule. Hop on a train with no destination, ask around to see if any locals recommend anything you’ve never heard of and create core memories that win against any predictable date.
2. PersOnaliTy Plan
Let your partner’s likes/dislikes and personality guide the way to a successful date. Are they obsessed with movies? Go to a drive-in movie, get cozy under a blanket and bring a bunch of their favorite snacks. Are they obsessed with nature? Take them on a hike with a view that’s almost as beautiful as you and make a picnic out of it. A date that focuses on them, and that also bonds you together, will make your partner feel special.
3. edible WOrld TOur I’m not taking ownership of this idea, because I’ve seen it on TikTok, but make a list of appetizer spots, dinner spots and dessert spots…with a drink spot or two in
between. Play any type of choosing game: rock, paper, scissors, blindfold, point at a card or pick a number. This way, the night feels more like an adventure and you get to experience multiple places instead of just settling into one seat for hours, because who knows if you’ll enjoy the meal!
4. is This 4, Charles?
nO, iT’s yOur KiTChen
Okay, maybe I just love food, but I can’t stop thinking about food dates. Although a night out to dinner is still romantic and intimate, cooking with your partner is even more entertaining. You can make it into a two-part date by going to the grocery store or local farmer’s market to grab your ingredients together. Doing something simple and turning it into a fun night can be so playful. Pick a theme, such as a “tropical night along the beach,” where you dress up like you’re on vacation. Craft fruity cocktails and make a fish dish. Or, try a “Michelin star” challenge, where you not only make something delicious but something beautiful. You don’t even have to stop there; get some friends to judge in a Chopped-style competition and pick mystery ingredients for each other. Take a struggling process and turn it into a teamwork-filled, laughter-packed, meaningful date that results in something you make together — even if it includes some kitchen failures.
Instead of spending countless hours planning your outfit for the night, why don’t you find the perfect outfit with your partner? I’ve been trying my best to thrift as much as possible; let me tell you, I am OBSESSED! Go thrifting together, visit a small truck stand with clothes in the back, or even hit the mall. For a girl who’s with someone who hates to shop, this might encourage them to find the fun. First, they get to be with you, which they obviously love. And second, maybe your superior sense of style could rub off on them. After all, you are the one who has to look at them; you might as well be looking at a great outfit while you’re at it!
6. shOWdOWn date-dOWn
Instead of a typical date night, look for a comedy club, a Broadway (or off-Broadway) show or even slam poetry (cue 22 Jump Street). Watching performers bring their art to life creates a shared experience that sparks conversation and opinions while living in the moment. Even five months later, after seeing The Book of Mormon, my partner and I still can’t stop laughing. This date can show you what interests your partner and take you into a world you didn’t realize you both could enjoy.
7. learning TOgeTher: a date WiTh sKill
There’s something about taking a class together that just hits differently. My favorite thing to do with my partner is to learn something new about them. When it comes to classes, whether it’s painting, dance, pottery or sushi-making, I feel fortunate to watch them learn or accomplish skills I didn’t know they had. Not only are you working together, but you can also try something new and laugh at your partner in this safe space. Maybe you can even take home a handmade souvenir!
Ditch that dinner reservation, girl. words: Julia Paperny | design: Leah Sullivan
Wait three hours to text back? Don’t hook up on the first date? Be so nonchalant; make sure they know you don’t care. Yeah, no thanks. I don’t know about you, but I am done playing by the rules. In the modern dating scene, the real power move isn’t mastering some ancient strategy—it’s doing whatever the hell you want. That might just be the secret to building an authentic, happy and healthy relationship.
Playing it safe may seem like the best option, but realistically, it may shadow the connection you’re truly looking for. True connection comes from following your heart and being authentically and unapologetically yourself. So, here is an updated rulebook to dating.
Trash The “Cool Girl” Facade
For years, the dating world has pushed the notion that being mysterious and hard to get is desirable. “Don’t text first,” or, “Make them work for it.” It’s exhausting, physically and mentally.
But what does “cool” even mean? Who defined it? Society tells us a cool girl is detached, never asks too much and is reserved. She always has something better to do. We have been convinced that caring too much, feeling too deeply and essentially showing human emotion is unattractive. But that’s just not true. “Cool” is subjective. There is nothing more alluring than someone who is unapologetically themselves. Think about how you feel when you’re talking about your favorite hobby or dream job. The way you can talk about it forever and ever and never get tired. That’s interesting, not that uninterested facade. Passion is the driving force in life. Passion fuels ambitions, love, creativity and connection. Why would we suppress all of that just to appease social etiquette?
This whole “nonchalant” act forces people, especially women, to suppress their genuine emotions out of fear of seeming overly emotional or too much. But why? If you feel it, embrace it, as long as it’s safe. If you want to text back right away, do it. If you like them, tell them. The right person won’t be scared off by the unedited you.
Authenticity > Games
The healthiest relationships aren’t built on strategy. They’re built on real connections. Playing games might grab their attention momentarily, but it won’t help you start a healthy relationship. Pretending not to care, or pretending to care, might make you seem more interesting in the moment. But, do you want to be with someone you have to pretend to be someone else for?
The best relationships happen when two people show up as their honest selves. No watching the clock to send a pre-planned text back; No topics are off-limits or too taboo; No pretending to be detached. Just two people genuinely caring for each other through the good and the bad. Zero chill, all heart.
Do Whatever You Want
It’s not the Victorian era. We are not in a time of horse and carriage rides and women hopelessly waiting for a male suitor to arrive. The feeling of liberation you get from breaking the dating rules significantly outweighs the need to play by them. Do what you want. You don’t have to wait for anyone to make the first move. You don’t have to apologize for wanting more intimacy. Being unapologetic is important.
Breaking the “rules” isn’t just about dating; it’s about owning your choices, being independent and refusing to conform to fit societal expectations. Here are some ways to start doing whatever you want.
Take the Lead
You have better things to do than overthink and wait around for a text or accidentally bump into them on campus. If you had a good time, reach out. The right person won’t make you second-guess yourself, they’ll match your freak.
Be Passionate
Talk about what you love, what you hate, that one funny, slightly humiliating story that is sure to get a strong reaction from your audience. BEING CHALANT IS COOL! Clear communication isn’t a weakness, it’s a strength.
Take Up Space.
In this day in age, we must be holding space for ourselves. You don’t have to dim your light to make someone else comfortable. Your energy, thoughts and feelings are not flaws; they’re what make you, you. Take pride in the person you’ve become, or else no one else will.
Dating isn’t a game, and there is no winning or losing. Dating is an experience to learn and to grow. So, go ahead. Say what you mean. Be as interested (or uninterested) as you want. Break the rules. The right person won’t connect with a fake you anyway.
Swiping Right or Switching On?
Too many women have been told to settle. Whether it’s in bed, in relationships or in life. But we’re done with the bare minimum. Be it the bare minimum boyfriend, the dodgy situationship or the general expectation that women should be content with less than we are entitled to, it’s time for an upgrade. Enter the vibrator. It listens to you, knows exactly what you need, and delivers pleasure. No compromises. No settling. Just satisfaction. Vibrators are the new, reliable partner that never disappoints.
The truth is that embracing your own pleasure is an act of self-care.
There is nothing shameful about knowing what makes feel good. The vibrator isn’t a backup plan anymore, it’s the main event.
When it comes to sex, women aren’t getting the satisfaction they deserve. The underwhelming foreplay and predictable patterns don’t cut it. With the “orgasm gap,” a parody of the pay gap, a study from Durex found that 95% of men typically have orgasms during sexual activity compared to just 65% of women (Forbes). Another study showed that 92.4% of women are able to climax through masturbation (Murray & Milhausen, 2012). Realistically, it makes sense for women to turn to vibrators, a surefire way to ensure their needs are met. Why settle for “good enough” when you can have mind-blowing every time?
Let’s be honest: your vibrator does more for you than most sneaky links ever will. It doesn’t ghost you or give you the ick, and it knows what it’s doing. While those you’ve swiped right on underwhelm you in the bedroom, your vibrator delivers precisely what you need. Forget about the “maybe next time” promises or the awkward “I’m not really sure what you like” moments. Self-pleasure is the new selfcare, and it’s time to be vocal about it.
The sex toy industry has gone from “shh, don’t tell anyone” to “let’s talk about it.” What was once a taboo subject is now
out in the open, with celebrities like Lily Allen and Cara Delevingne making it clear that toys are not only acceptable but celebrated. Medical professionals, such as Dr. Lindsey Doe, are taking advantage of digital platforms to give people the real talk on sexual health and pleasure. Even our comfort, binge-worthy shows boldly display toys, such as Emily in Paris and Sex And The City, to help destigmatize the conversation of sex and pleasure.
Social media is flooded with vibrator recommendations, and our favorite influencers are spilling their top picks. Tana Mongeau has her go-to (The Ava) linked right on her Amazon page under “Lingerie & Fun Stuff.”
Being open and responsive is how topics surrounding female pleasure are slowly becoming a normalized topic. If you are planning on making the purchase, be sure to pick one that suits your needs and doublecheck that it’s travel friendly, because you don’t know the next time your sneaky link will require back up.
The Magic Wand Rechargeable is a fan favorite with 50 years of trust under its belt (Wirecutter, 2025). If it’s good enough for sex-toy enthusiasts, it’s good enough for us. If you’re looking for something a little more discreet (dorm room friendly), the PlusOne Vibrating Bullet is a solid pick that won’t break the bank. For those who want a little more luxury, the Lelo Sona 2 Cruise is a splurge-worthy steal.
Pleasure isn’t some rare, once-in-a-while treat; it’s nonnegotiable. So, let’s drop the stigma, ditch the disappointment and own the fact that we know exactly what we want — and how to get it. It’s 2025, let’s act like it.
words: Ella Maniloff design: Finley Banks
words: Ella Maniloff, Ava Robbins & Rachel Musman | design: Sofia Floresca
Red, White and Bad
Love is Blind?
Go Big and Go Home
The Great Date Escape
Blood, Sweat and Tears (Mostly Blood) The Three Man Stand
The ideas expressed are not those of Syracuse University, the office of Student Activities, the Student Association, or the Student Body.
