Week of February 22, 2021 by Daily Titan

The Student Voice of California State University, Fullerton

Monday, February 22, 2021

CSUF offense too much for Utah The Titans recorded 16 hits against the Utes in their home matchup last night. ADAM MALDONADO Editor

An exceptional team effort on both the offensive and defensive ends gave Cal State Fullerton baseball an astounding 15-1 victory over Utah as the Titans claimed their second victory of the season on Sunday night. Two dominant frames during the second and fourth innings, where the Titans scored five and seven runs respectively, broke the lead wide open for Fullerton. Meanwhile Fullerton’s defense managed to only give up one run, despite Utah having two bases-loaded opportunities and leaving 13

runners on base throughout the game. The Titans now clinch the series against the Utes in their opening weekend after beating them, 3-1, on Saturday night. Timothy Josten got the start for the Titans and found himself in a jam in the second inning after the Utes loaded the bases with only one out in the frame. A sacrifice RBI by Utah’s Jaylon McLaughlin gave them the 1-0 lead before Josten was able to retire the next batter. Fullerton quickly took a 5-1 lead in the bottom of the frame and went through the entirety of their lineup before the Utes were able to end the second inning. Sparked by a leadoff single by Zach Lew, Jake Lyon immediately brought Lew home with an RBI triple. A

OPINION: Tiktok users are susceptible to creators’ false realities. SEE PAGE 6

NEWS: Admission decisions reshaped by SAT removal. SEE PAGE 3

Tanner Bibee pitches against Utah on Feb. 20 at Goodwin Field. (CSUF Athletics)

wild pitch that got behind the catcher gave Lyon an opportunity to make a play at home and claim the go-ahead lead. Cole Urman extended CSUF’s lead by recording his first collegiate hit with an RBI

single. He stole second base while on the base path and eventually was brought home along with Jake Harvey after a single by Caden Connor. SEE OPENER

Tech Housing population toxic to to increase this fall youth MIRANDA LOMBRANA Asst. Editor

TRISHA VASQUEZ Staff Writer

Toddlers on tablets, children on smartphones and a generation raised by screens. It is inevitable that smartphones and tablets are everywhere and adults need them to function in this technologically advanced world. SEE PHONE 6

Cal State Fullerton’s Housing Department is in the early stages of planning and preparing for the fall semester. Larry Martin, Ph.D., the executive director of Housing and Residential Engagement for CSUF, said that student housing is continuing to consult with campus leadership, the CSU chancellor’s office, as well as local, county, state and federal guidelines to make a decision. The constant updates of COVID-19 have left the leadership team with unanticipated questions for preparing for the fall, Martin said. “With vaccines becoming available, what does that mean? How might we utilize those to assist as well, so it’s still

early and determining what impact that will have,” Martin said. Ellen Treanor, the media representative for CSUF who is on CSUF’s Reentry Leadership Team, said that the university will not be requiring students to be vaccinated before returning to campus. Martin said that student housing is hoping to open the residence halls to some capacity in the fall. “We’ve been approved for about 12 to 15% occupancy for this year, so if we open the residents halls even at a limited capacity, it would likely take us to about 25%, is what we’re anticipating,” Martin said. Martin said that the planning apartment complexes will also be available for the fall semester at a lowered capacity. SEE DORMS

Studying abroad from home International education programs adapt to closed borders worldwide. CRISTINA ZAPATA Staff Writer

Cal State Fullerton’s Study Abroad and Global

Engagement Office has been exceptionally busy despite many international borders closing last year. After the evacuation of students abroad at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, programs redefined its strategies for delivering international

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY CRISTINA ZAPATA FOLLOW US ON TWITTER: @THEDAILYTITAN

NEWS: Seniors push against 2021 online graduation SEE PAGE 3

O P I N I O N

Parents are responsible for regulating children’s time spent on screens.

Volume 109 Issue 5

experiences in a virtual environment. For the time being, students are trading in their passports and plane tickets for their laptops and internet connections as they embark on virtual journeys from home. Jack Hobson, the senior director of the

Global Titans Center, said his study abroad advisors have spent the last 10 months preparing virtual programs to satisfy the needs of students who wish to have an experience abroad. SEE VIRTUAL

Softball goes 2-2 After sweeping LMU on the road, the Titans lost twice to UCLA at home. JOSHUA BYFIELD Asst. Editor

Cal State Fullerton softball swept the Loyola Marymount University Lions on the road in a Thursday afternoon doubleheader on Feb. 18, but dropped both games of a second doubleheader Saturday afternoon on Feb. 20 at home against the UCLA Bruins, the No. 1 team in the nation, according to the USA Today/ National Fastpitch Coaches Association poll. In game one against LMU, Fullerton was able to ride a complete-game effort by senior right-hander Sophie Frost, who surrendered five runs, two of them earned, to go with eight strikeouts, as well as a five RBI outing from freshman infielder Hannah Becerra. LMU got on the board in the first inning with two run-scoring singles, but Fullerton responded with three runs in the third to take the 3-2 lead. The Titans scored another run in the fifth off a RBI single by Megan Delgadillo, but the Lions capitalized with a pair of RBI-groundouts after they loaded the bases in the sixth with two walks and an error, tying the score at 4-4. Becerra’s three-run homer in the seventh gave Fullerton the go-ahead lead and extra insurance to maintain the lead. The Lions made a final effort with a home run in the seventh before Frost sealed the victory with a 7-5 final score. In game two, Fullerton was able to take an early lead and maintain it throughout the game, with freshman right-hander Ellie Zellien and sophomore right-hander Dani Martinez holding LMU to two runs, combined with a steady offensive performance by senior Irie Siofele, who batted 3-for-4 with two RBIs. SEE RUNS

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2 News

WEEK OF MONDAY, FEBRUARY 22

Dorms: To see possible 10% increase CONTINUED FROM

CSUF has been determining which student applications to accept based on the students’ needs. “Whether that’s based on in-person classes, housing and security, housing and instability, housing environments aren’t conducive to the learning environment or lack of access to technology to help with especially the virtual learning environment — so those are the pieces that help us prioritize and so I imagine that it will continue into the fall,” Martin said. Housing and Residential Engagement has hosted several events including a homecoming celebration and Among Us game night. “So, for not knowing what the year would look like, we’re very pleased with both student compliance with the protocols as well as their willingness to engage with us virtually,” Martin said.

Student housing is hoping increase capacity for the residence halls this fall. (Isaias Ruelas / Daily Titan)

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News 3

WEEK OF MONDAY, FEBRUARY 22

Online graduation disappoints seniors ALEXANDRA RODRIGUEZ Staff Writer

Cal State Fullerton seniors are calling for the administration to hold an in-person graduation ceremony. When the university announced on Jan. 29 that the class of 2021 will likely say goodbye through a screen, many students voiced their frustrations. Some CSUF students like Melinda Decker, a senior majoring in business, came up with their own plans on how the school could execute a safe in-person ceremony. “We have that giant space in front of the kinesiology

building where they could set something up and we could just drive through and get our diplomas,” Decker said. Jonathan Bauer, a senior majoring in psychology, said the time frame of how long a potential ceremony could last does not concern many students as long as they are able to walk in their cap and gown and receive a diploma. Though the decision from the administration has not been finalized, students are requesting a graduation fee refund if the school proceeds with the virtual ceremony. Bauer created a petition that currently has over a 1,000 signatures which states that seniors should be refunded the fee since the

SAT removal reshapes CSU admissions

graduates will not receive a proper ceremony. He said hopefully the plea would make the administration take the time to listen to the students. “As of right now, people care more about the fact that they’re going to be in a cap and gown and hear their name being called,” Bauer said. Cal State Long Beach has announced a drive-thru graduation in May where students will be able to register for a place to drive up in their vehicle across a designated stage to receive their diploma. Bauer said that CSUF could do the event in parts over a span of two or three weeks. He added that the graduates would follow safety protocols like wearing a mask and social distancing. Decker said it would be easier to plan as the

graduation date comes closer because more people should be vaccinated by then. Jillian Espinueva, a graduating political science major, said that planning out a safe graduation with strict guidelines would make students feel at ease and participate especially for those whose first year at CSUF was moved from in person to online. “Anybody would dream to walk across the stage,” Espinueva said. “I’m already accepting the fact that it’s fine if we don’t have an in-person graduation just for the safety of others.” CSUF, which is a commuter school with the transfer student rate increasing over the years, some have missed out on the true college experience with virtual classes and not being able to attend an in-person graduation,

“

As of right now, people care more about the fact that they’re going to be in a cap and gown and hear their name be called.

“

A petition against the $115 commencement fee attained over 1,000 signatures.

JONATHAN BAUER CSUF Senior Espinueva said. Samantha Sanchez, a senior psychology major, said that she was on the fence about a virtual graduation because COVID-19 cases are still high, but that given all the energy she put into her studies an in-person graduation ceremony would have been nice. “It is probably the best thing possible to keep everybody safe, everybody’s family safe, but on the other hand I worked so hard these past four years,” Sanchez said.

CSUF will primarily rely on grades to review college applications for the 2021-2022 academic year. CARA PEDERSEN Staff Writer

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EDITORIAL

CSUF is planning to hold an online commencement for the class of 2021 this May. (Isaias Ruelas / Daily Titan)

Editor-in-Chief Jessica Benda Managing Editor Madeline Gray Digital Managing Editor Karina Gutierrez News Editor Anthony Robledo Deputy News Editor Michelle Ibañez News Assistants Emily Downer Lily Lopez Nicole Mariona Miranda Lombrana Sports Editor Adam Maldonado

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The fall admission requirements will focus more on a higher grade-point average compared to years prior to make up for SAT and ACT scores. Unlike the UC system, the CSU system does not review extracurricular activities, personal essays or awards. Jaquelyn Robledo, a high school senior from Garden Grove and CSUF applicant, was registered to take her SAT on March 14, 2020 and was not notified about its cancelation until that morning. “I was really nervous to take the SAT so when I heard it wasn’t required anymore, I was really relieved because the Cal States, they really just look at your GPA and your test scores and I was really nervous about failing or not doing great on the SAT,” Robledo said. With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the College Board has continued to offer weekend SAT testing days that are scheduled for March 13, May 8 and June 5. There will also be four SAT School Days, when students can take the test at their school on a weekday, throughout March and April. All SAT School Days will require students to wear a mask, maintain a six-foot distance from other students and confirm a series of statements prior to entering the testing room, Carayol said. “The College Board’s mission isn’t to ensure all colleges require the SAT, it’s to expand access to college for more students and help them succeed when they get there,” said Carayol. “Whether required for admission or not, SAT scores help colleges create data-driven programs to ensure admitted students get the support they need to graduate.”

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The temporary suspension of SAT and ACT scores from the Cal State application has created an admissions decision season like no other. As announced in April 2020, standardized tests have been temporarily dropped from the admission decision process for CSU campuses during the 2021-22 academic year as test centers adhere to COVID-19 guidelines. “Even with the flexibility that Higher Ed has put into place, we know that students still want to take the test,” said Jaslee Carayol, the College Board’s director of media relations. “We also know that our Higher Ed and K-12 members continue to value the SAT and we’ve heard that from them as we’ve worked closely with them to navigate the impact of the pandemic on college admissions.” Cal State Fullerton is already sending out admissions decisions for the 2021-22 academic year, which focused more on a higher grade-point average compared to years prior, according to CSUF’s Office of Admissions. To determine the admission status of an applicant without standardized test scores, CSUF’s Office of Admissions will be ranking applicants by their 15-course college preparatory sequence known as their A-G gradepoint average For the 2020-21 admissions cycle, first-time freshmen were required to have at least a C- average, or a 2.0 GPA, compared to this year where applicants must now have a 2.50 GPA. CSUF’s Office of Admissions also stated that it will continue to accept grades of “Credit” or “Pass” to satisfy A-G requirements completed for all academic terms from winter 2020 to summer 2021.

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FOR THE RECORD It is Daily Titan policy to correct factual errors printed in the publication. Corrections will be published on the subsequent issue after an error is discovered and will appear on page 3. Errors on the Opinion page will be corrected on that page. Corrections will also be made to the online version of the article. Please contact Editor-in-Chief Jessica Benda at (657) 278-5815 or at editorinchief@dailytitan.com to report any errors.

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4 Sports

WEEK OF MONDAY, FEBRUARY 22

Runs: Bruins pull away in final inning

Hannah Becerra rounds the bases after hitting a home run against UCLA on Feb. 20 at Anderson Family Field. (CSUF Athletics)

CONTINUED FROM

A leadoff solo homer by freshman KK Humphreys in the second inning started the Titan’s scoring, and an inning error later by LMU allowed Humphreys to reach base and score on a Siofele double for a 2-0 lead. The pair would strike again in the fifth when Siofele doubled to right-center and Humphreys scoring after being hit by a pitch. LMU outfielder Molly Grumbo hit a two-run homer in the bottom of the inning to briefly trim the deficit to one, but Fullerton scored in both of the final innings on solo home runs by senior outfielder Kelsie Whitmore in the sixth, and sophomore infielder Daisy Munoz in the seventh, giving Fullerton the 5-2 win. During Saturday’s matches against UCLA, the Titans had trouble against one of the best pitchers in the country, Megan Faraimo, redshirt sophomore pitcher and the 2020 Softball America Pitcher of the Year. Faraimo allowed back-to-back home runs to Becerra and Munoz, giving Fullerton an early 2-0 lead. But Faraimo then settled in, limiting Fullerton’s opportunities while giving up three hits for the remainder of the game.

Savannah Serrata, freshman right-handed pitcher, made the first start of her career and surrendered two earned runs with three walks and two strikeouts in three innings-pitched. After going scoreless in the first two innings, the Bruins scored two runs in the third inning and earned one run in each of the final four frames to take a 6-2 victory. The second game of the doubleheader against UCLA was a battle for all seven innings, with Fullerton taking a 4-3 lead heading into the seventh inning. Frost needed one final strike to complete the game and the upset, but a two-out, two RBI double by Bruins redshirt freshman Taylor Edwards erased the Titans’ lead at the last second, releasing the floodgates before losing. Frost and the defense fought off multiple rally attempts, but the Bruins broke through and jumped on Frost for four more runs before she was removed for Martinez, who surrendered a three-run homer. UCLA won the game 10-4. CSUF will travel to the University of San Diego and play the Toreros in a Monday doubleheader at 3 p.m. and 5 p.m.

Opener: CSUF takes 2-0 series lead CONTINUED FROM 1 In the fourth inning, the Utes loaded the bases on Josten once again, which forced the Titans to pull the left-handed junior. In 3.1 innings of work,

Josten only gave up one run and three hits while his defense recorded two errors during his outing. Landon Anderson came in for relief and shutdown the remainder of the inning and

struck out the next two Utah batters. Although having their first two batters retired, Fullerton rallied to deliver a seven-run fourth inning to put the game way out of reach for Utah to

YOU SEE A SOLUTION. WE SEE A LEADER.

even mount a comeback. It also marked the second time in the game where Fullerton went through the entirety of its lineup through a frame. Jason Brandow gave Fullerton extra insurance in the bottom of the fifth with a two-run RBI double that brought Lyon and Lew home, while JJ Cruz added one with

a sacrifice fly in the seventh inning. For a lot of new Titans, the lead allowed them the opportunity to play in their first college games and gain experience at the D1 level. Fullerton will wrap up the series against Utah on Monday at 12 p.m. at Goodwin Field.

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Sports 5

WEEK OF MONDAY, FEBRUARY 22

Anteaters sweep Titans in county rivalry Despite fighting efforts, UCI defeated CSUF in both contests last weekend. DEVIN PUENTE Staff Writer

Fresh off picking up their first Big West conference victory of the season last week against Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, the Cal State Fullerton women’s basketball team’s momentum came to a crashing halt as they were swept on the road against UC Irvine on Friday and Saturday. On Friday, the Titans suffered a tough loss in a backand-forth first game of the series against the Anteaters. Fullerton lost, 71-58, after Irvine outscored the Titans, 2611, in the fourth quarter, due in most part to a 20-2 run by the Anteaters. Despite shooting an effective 61% and 50% in the first and second quarter respectively, UCI could not manage to get a huge lead on the Titans throughout the first half. The Titans did not lead once throughout the first half of the game. Fullerton guard Gabi Vidmar’s ability to knock down 3-pointers in crucial moments helped keep the Titans in the game as they were only down 36-30 going into the second half. In the second half, the Titans

came out firing on all cylinders with a 10-0 run highlighted by a pair of three-pointers by Fullerton guard Anniken Frey to give Fullerton its first lead of the game. CSUF’s tough defense, led by forward Joy Krupa, forced the Anteaters to shoot 14% in the third quarter which was a big dip from their efficient first half. Fullerton’s biggest lead of the game came with a little over a minute left in the third quarter as the Titans held a 4740 lead over UCI. The Anteaters pulled away from the Titans in the fourth quarter after UCI forward Sofia Locandro dominated the paint and her ability to get to the free-throw line. Seven of Locandro’s 13 points came from free throws. Fullerton tried to put together one more run as it cut the UCI lead down to six with less than four minutes left in the fourth quarter, but the Titans ability to regain the lead slipped away as UCI guard Kayla Williams hit a 3-pointer to extend the lead and clinched the win for the Anteaters. Williams led the game in scoring, and provided 14 points along with four assists and three steals. Anteater guard Haleigh Talbert had a big night coming off the bench with 13 points and four rebounds. Frey led the Titans with 12

Guard Anniken Frey facilitates the offense against UCI at the Bren Events

points along with a team-high six assists, while Krupa added six points to go along with her 11 rebounds and three steals. On Saturday night, CSUF put up a valiant effort, but UCI’s 25 points from the bench players was too much for Fullerton as they lost, 68-60. In the first half, the Titans grabbed their only lead of the game early in the first quarter as Fullerton forward Katheryn Neff hit one of her three 3-pointers of the first quarter to grab an early lead.

After that quick lead, UCI took control of the game and did not look back as Anteaters guard Chloe Webb dominated the Titans with a double-double, a game high 17 points and 10 rebounds. In the fourth quarter, Fullerton was down by 22 points with three minutes left in the game and instead of running out the clock, the Titans were able to cut the lead in half. Fullerton forward Carolyn Gill led the Titans with 16 points and nine rebounds and

added two steals, while Neff had a season-high 13 points in the game. The pair of losses have confirmed that the Titans will finish last in the Big West this season and will be forced to play a first round postseason play-in game against a team yet to be determined on March 9 at 12 p.m. Fullerton returns to Titan Gym on March 5 and March 6 for its final series of the regular season against UC San Diego at 5 p.m.

Fullerton splits home series against UCI The Titans win last Saturday gave head coach Dedrique Taylor his 100th victory with CSUF. NICHOLAS COTHREL Staff Writer

After four canceled games in the weeks prior, Cal State Fullerton men’s basketball came out of its unexpected time off and split its weekend series against UC Irvine. The Titans fell short on Friday against Irvine, losing 89-78, but picked up a 67-64 win on Saturday. Fullerton now moves to a 5-7 record in conference play, while Irvine sits at an 8-4 conference record and second place in the Big West. The Titans have split five of six of its conference series this season, and it happened again as the Anteaters’ 45.6% field goal percentage on Friday night was too much for Fullerton to overcome. Despite the Titans trailing 40-26 at halftime, Fullerton rallied back in, tying the game at 71 apiece with over five minutes remaining. However, when the Titans reached striking distance, the Anteaters went on an 18-7 run to finish the game. Irvine’s freshman guard Dawson Baker led the Anteaters to victory with a team-high 23 points, going 6-14 from the floor and 10-12 from the free-throw line. Fullerton’s senior forward Johnny Wang came off the bench and recorded a season-high 18 points with four 3-pointers, leading the Titans on offense. Both teams were sent to the free-throw line quite regularly on Friday, as Fullerton shot 16-23 from the line, compared to Irvine’s 21-25. As the Titans showed improvements in the second half, putting the underwhelming start behind them, head coach Dedrique Taylor said he was intrigued with the team’s high-energy effort that got them back in reach. He said the focus heading into game two of the series was carrying that same momentum into Saturday’s matchup. “We got to start with the same effort,” Taylor said after Friday’s game. “Now we got some minutes under our belt and we know what it’s like — the physical play and the tough play. We’ve got to bring that, and we got to be more aggressive, I think, from the start of the game. If we can start with that type of energy and that type of effort, you can expect a good ballclub to play tomorrow night.” During Saturday’s game, the Titans’ defense was the difference-maker in its 67-64 victory, holding Irvine to a 21.4% from 3-point range and 38.1% from the floor. Fullerton’s 13 takeaways and four blocks, three of which came from senior forward Josh Hall, propelled the Titans to a stout defensive effort. On offense, the Titans shared the ball effectively as four players reached double-digits in points, meanwhile, Hall and redshirt-sophomore forward Vincent Lee both recorded a team-high three assists. While the Anteaters found themselves on the losing end of game two, redshirt-junior forward Collin Welp and redshirt-senior center Brad Greene both gave Irvine second chance opportunities, totaling 25 rebounds between the two. “Our group stuck together. We played hard and we played together. I think that’s the difference. We didn’t do anything X’s and O’s wise, we just attacked the paint, attacked the rim and defended. We

gambled a little bit and flew around, more importantly and at the end of the day, we just competed,” Taylor said. One thing Fullerton did accomplish on Saturday night was reaching a milestone victory for coach Taylor. Taylor, now in his eighth season with the Titans, earned his 100th career victory as head coach. His achievement in reaching the 100-win benchmark makes Taylor the fourth coach in Fullerton basketball history to reach the achievement. “My emotions are really high. I’m super proud of these guys because I thought they played 40 minutes. They competed tonight. The difference was that we normally would go away, but tonight we stuck with it. We played with great effort, great energy, our bench was alive and we just played together and played for each other and anytime you do that you give yourself a great chance to win,” Taylor said. The Titans will now

have a week off before rounding out its regular season schedule on the road against UC San Diego in a twogame series starting on March 5.

CSUF ATHLETICS

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6 Opinion

WEEK OF MONDAY, FEBRUARY 22

TikTok creates a false depiction of reality Romanticized content on the app spurs dissatisfaction with real life experiences. ADAM MALDONADO Editor

The Internet offers a bevy of entertainment that can leave users scrolling for what seems like hours through a landfill of content. The popular social media app, TikTok, provides a great glimpse into this media hell scape as audiences can watch numerous videos that are less than a minute long. However, what is seen on the app often paints a romanticized view of the many facets of society, which could leave false impressions on a number of viewers. While TikTok provides an escape from reality, its content shouldn’t be mistaken for it. Nearly a third of users on TikTok are within the 10-19 age range, a very impressionable age

where individuals are constantly developing and learning more about themselves. With a greater number of children gaining access to mobile devices, even younger users are exposed to the material available on the app. Although much is fun and jokes, it’s critical for creators to be mindful of what they post and the message they disseminate. Topics that are romanticized or seen through “a rose-colored lens” can range over a multitude of interests, not exactly pertaining to specific trends that plague the app. It’s important to note that TikTok’s “For You Page,” like other social media platforms, is algorithmic, meaning that the content delivered to each user is tailored toward the viewer’s interests, so everyone’s feeds look different. Since money has been tough to come by lately, easy money-making schemes tend to dominate the content on many’s “For you Page,” showing many intuitive ways to earn money seemingly

(Cindy Proaño / Daily Titan)

easy while never having to leave the house. However, many of these situations are not a sustainable way to earn an income, nor will it turn out how the creator portrays the video. Even if one finds themselves able to sustain this lifestyle, it will require more work than what is perceived. It’s simply an idealized version of the situation that attempts to paint success to gain interactions from users. Furthermore, basic nuances of life are no longer embraced nor enjoyed by the users themselves. Rather than enjoying a sunset with their own eyes or enjoying a delicious-looking meal, they’d prefer watching someone partake in the act through their phones. In another sense, some creators make it seem that if you aren’t taking in the same activities they are participating in — working out, travel, recreation, etc. — then you are wasting your life. Some users glamorize serious topics such as mental health and eating disorders while their comment section is flooded with praise. Rather than trying to stop the problem, the creator instead makes the matters worse, whether it is intended to or not. Even trends such as individuals accentuating the bags under their eyes tear away at the insecurities of people who were met with dismay for possessing that physical look. Granted, to each their own on how they manage their personal issues, but these topics could prove to be triggering to victims of these effects, or could rather negatively promote these topics as less than serious. There should be education and a form of support for individuals who have or will face these issues, but ensuring that the right message is being sent is crucial if people truly want to help others with their challenges. Online content isn’t always what meets the eye, which could cause people to feel duped if they take these romanticized situations on social media as the real product. The influence that creators possess with their content could have positive or negative consequences, no matter their intention. While creators should be mindful of the message they send to their viewers, users should also be aware of these misconstrued perceptions and gauge them through a clearer lens.

Phone: Overuse of devices stunts development CONTINUED FROM

But, why do we insist on shoving them in front of children to shut them up — especially during such critical developmental years? When children are exposed to over an hour a day of screen time, their language, literacy and cognitive skills are at risk of being stunted. Pediatrician and director of the Center on Media and Child Health at Boston Children’s Hospital, Michael Rich, made an excellent point when he said, “boredom is the space in which creativity and imagination happen.” Giving minds the time and space to wander allows us the opportunity to come up with our own great ideas and creative thoughts. However, with phones constantly offering new content, brains stop forming their own original ideas and we become sheep, mindlessly scrolling through the internet. When children are constantly engaged online, they are unknowingly minimizing the time their minds can wander. They begin to lack the imagination a child should have. This is the least of problems when it comes VISIT US AT: DAILYTITAN.COM

to the negative effects of too much screen time. When considering how much information humans learn from real-life experiences, one must question how children are impacted when these experiences are replaced by screens. “Studies have shown excessive TV viewing is linked to the inability of children to pay attention and think clearly, while increasing poor eating habits and behavioral problems. Associations have also been shown between excessive screen time and language delay, poor sleep, impaired executive function and a decrease in parent-child engagement,” according to CNN Health. Allowing children to develop a short attention span is basically setting them up for failure in the future. These cognitive problems can affect their school performance and work habits. Taking care of a little problem, like too much phone use, can potentially solve bigger problems down the line. Screen time before bed is especially not good for children. When children stay up on

(Margaret Tran / Daily Titan)

an iPad or phone instead of getting a full eight hours of sleep, they are interrupting time that should be spent in a REM sleep pattern. A lack of REM sleep can disrupt essential time needed to process and store information from that day into memory. This can be extremely important once those children start their education. “A young person’s brain lacks a fully developed self-control system to help them with stopping this kind of obsessive behavior,” according to research by Harvard Medical School. Once a person has a subconscious pattern like looking at their phone before bed, it can be extremely hard to stop. Phones can have the same addicting effect on human brains as cigarettes or alcohol. Dr. John Hutton, a

pediatrician and clinical researcher at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, has found evidence that kids who spend too much time looking at a screen usually have parents who exhibit the same patterns. If these patterns are to continue into their teenage years, they could be looking at prescription glasses. According to a study shared by Healthline, “researchers say the number of children 13 to 16 years old who need glasses has doubled the past 10 years.” Experts argue that screen time is the culprit behind the rise in eyesight problems in teens and young adults. Smartphone and tablet users must realize that they have the power to deny or succumb to the rabbit hole of screen addiction, for themselves and their

children as well. The best way to combat this issue is to evolve with technology and learn to limit our and our children’s screen time. It is crucial for parents to spend time with their children without any phones, even if that just means enjoying screen-free meals together. Parents should also promote healthy screen time habits like refraining from screens near bedtime, as this can help reduce eye damage from the screens’ blue light. It is unrealistic to take screens away from children completely, but limiting their screen time to an hour or less and ensuring they are watching plenty of educational apps will allow them to adapt to the technological age while preventing brain damage.

Leisure 7

WEEK OF MONDAY, FEBRUARY 22

WRITTEN by Stepheny Gehrig

Do you know where Tuffy is? Follow @thedailytitan and submit your answer on Instagram for a chance to win.

Dunkin’ Donuts Almond Joy Iced Coffee For $2.59, you can get a medium Almond Joy Iced Coffee from Dunkin Donuts. This was an official menu item in 2016, but has since been discontinued. However, it is still a fan favorite. You can order it by ordering an Original Blend Iced Coffee with a flavor shot of coconut, a flavor shot of toasted almond, two pumps of milk, and a mocha flavor swirl. It’s that easy!

This week will pick up for you. As you have gone through rough patches in the beginning of the month, this week will bring you joy and easier times. Take this week as a break from the harshness you have been dealing with.

Your emotions might make you feel congested as you have been biting your tongue on expressing yourself. This week might lead to an emotional overload; try to confide in and seek advice from those you trust.

You may feel a little outspoken this week. As you go through the week, you might feel the need to use your voice more to get your opinions out. Use this confidence to make some positive changes in your life.

This week will be a great time to figure out your priorities. You’ll find yourself with a clear and unstressed mind. Use this clarity to find what you want to prioritize in your life and set some new goals for yourself.

This week has a lot in store for you. You may feel overwhelmed or like you need to isolate yourself due to unprecedented stressors. Use this week as a self-care week, focus on yourself and give yourself some time to destress.

Your week may be a bit bumpy as you notice some friendships fade. Although they may have been good relationships in the past, take time to recognize that change and moving on is a part of life.

This week will bring you lots of highs as you go into a week filled with good emotions. You will feel more optimistic and like things are going just the way you want them to. It will bring you everything you’ve been waiting for.

Miscommunication might hinder your ability to get your points across. Keep an open mind as you express yourself; if someone questions you, be open about explaining your point of view.

You may feel more creative this week! Let this creativity shine; host a Zoom painting party with your friends or buy some arts and crafts supplies and learn a new hobby!

You may face some tough changes. Opening up to others will prove to be helpful as you try to navigate hard feelings. Lean on friends and family, as they can offer you support that you’ll need.

You might need an energy boost this week. You may feel drained by work, school or even personal relationships. Take an outside perspective on how you manage your time -- see if there is any way to boost your energy.

Guard your heart this week. You may feel open and carefree this week, but some people who you may have close to your heart might take advantage of your feelings.

Graphic Design Club Graphic Design Club gives students the opportunity to advance their design skills and interest. No matter what level of expertise you may have in design, this club welcomes everyone and will benefit anyone looking to build upon the skills they already have. This group encourages designers to enhance their professional development by providing powerful tools and resources to all. Graphic Design Club offers students a place to collaborate, work, and create with other students who have similar interests. We offer several events throughout the semester to build upon our present design skills and knowledge. We also seek out design professionals from different areas of concentration to offer our club members ON IG: W O L L O F experience about working in the real world through presentations, workshops, and Q&As. sign For your club or organization to be featured, email production@dailytitan.com with photo(s) and a description with no more than 125 words.

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by: Sarah Fong

8 Lifestyle

WEEK OF MONDAY, FEBRUARY 22

Virtual: Return of student travel is uncertain department programs to non-credit bearing programs. While the pandemic disrupted travel plans, Hobson said virtual global engagement strives to help students access a higher educational experience. Virtual programs may be bound to a computer screen, but Hobson said he wants these virtual experiences to be as “meaningful” and “transformative” as traditional

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While the mode of delivery has changed, the desire, and the need, and the right of nearly 40,000 Cal State Fullerton students to have a global engagement experience, that hasn’t changed. JACK HOBSON Global Titan Center

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1 “While the mode of delivery has changed, the desire, and the need, and the right of nearly 40,000 Cal State Fullerton students to have a global engagement experience, that hasn’t changed,” Hobson said. With virtual global engagement, faculty abroad and faculty at Cal State Fullerton can merge classes in a virtual mode. Hobson said this virtual addition to study abroad opportunities will continue after regular programs reopen. “One of the things that I like about the virtual global engagement experiences is beyond the fact that they don’t blow up people’s lives. They can keep their job. They don’t have to move out of their apartment. They don’t have to do all these things, but they can have a meaningful global experience that is interactive,” Hobson said. Programs available to students span a wide variety of opportunities from CSUF CONTINUED FROM

abroad adventures. “We’re hoping that our virtual global engagement experiences can be designed such that they fall exactly into that same category so that it’s not just kind of icing slapped on top of a regular old class,” Hobson said. Aileen Vickory, study abroad advisor, oversees the Global Titans Ambassador program, which connects study abroad alumni to the CSUF community and creates a mentorship program for students who wish to go abroad. She said students should consider studying abroad because of the lessons they can learn. When virtual programs became the only option for study abroad, Vickory and her Global Titans Ambassadors team had to modify their means of outreach to students. “If study abroad teaches you anything, it’s you learn how to adapt,” Vickory said. “You learn how to roll with the punches as you go, and you learn how to take things

as they come, and you become flexible.” Global Titans Ambassadors share their experiences with students who are interested in the study abroad program. The reopening of travel programs is uncertain, but Marley Uyemura, an ambassador who studied abroad in Tokyo, Japan, said that early preparation is essential during the research and application process. “We like to really make sure that students know that this is an option for them, that this is something that they can do,” Uyemura said. “By attending these sessions, even a year in advance, it kind of gives you an idea of what’s out there.” The office’s website helps students find the right program and connects them to financial aid and scholarship resources. For the time being, virtual expos, workshops and advising meetings are ways students can gather more information on how to begin their online journeys. Beyond the benefits of

cultural immersion and selfgrowth, the ambassadors also said students can benefit from the opportunities that emerge after the program ends. “We really try to let students know that regardless of where you come from, what type of student you are, there is a program for you,” said ambassador Vanessa Lara who studied in Mexico, Cuba and the Dominican Republic for her co-curricular service-learning opportunities. Ambassadors can also help inform students about post-graduate opportunities, such as the U.S. Student Fulbright Program, Japan Exchange Teaching Program and Peace Corps. Natalie Ma, an ambassador who went to Mexico and China, said to fight for your dreams to study abroad, whether that is during undergrad or postgrad. “If you really want to do this and it’s part of your dream, you just got to go for it.” said Ma.

Five Netflix originals renewed in 2021 New seasons will be made for shows like Tiger King, Emily in Paris, and Outer Banks. ANDREA MORA Asst. Editor

It’s no secret that 2020 was a year of adversity, but while the world was juggling a plethora of problems, Netflix stepped up its game with original shows to help people survive the lockdown. From steamy romance to action-packed crime dramas, 2020 was a good year for the platform, and 2021 is gearing up to be just as eventful, with new releases of beloved shows. Here is a list of the Netflix originals that were a hit with audiences last year, along with insight into the plans for new upcoming seasons. “Bridgerton” This story takes place in 1800s England as wealthy households prepare their sons and daughters for marriage season. Fans follow each member of the rich and powerful Bridgerton family through a plotline filled with lust and betrayal. Of course, no social season would be complete without a dose of scandal, and Lady Whistledown’s (Julie Andrews) anonymous column is the perfect place to dish out the gossip of high society. This steamy show exceeded Netflix’s expectations, viewed by a record 82 million households around the world. On Jan. 21, Netflix confirmed that the Bridgerton family will be back for a second season, with production starting in the spring. The news was brought to fans by the only person who could possibly have the scoop on this exciting news — Lady Whistledown. Fans are eager to know more, but the details are being kept top secret. “However, gentle reader, before you set the comments section alight with requests for more sordid details, know that I am disinclined to report on the particulars at this time. Patience, after all, is a virtue,” said Whisledown in her ‘Society Papers’ via a post on the “Bridgerton” Netflix Instagram account. “Outer Banks” If you like action-packed crime shows with a dash of summer adventure, this is the show for you. John Booker Routledge is a teenager living in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. With his dad lost at sea and no legal guardian present, John B. finds himself face to face with child protective services. Convinced that his dad is still alive, his friends and him follow a set of clues, hoping that they will explain why John B.’s father never returned from sea. The action-packed plot keeps fans on their toes with wild adventures, romance and mystery. The season debuted on June 15, quickly jumping to the number four spot in Netflix’s Top 10. The show received the number one position as the hype of “Tiger King” died down, and the first season’s success earned it a renewal for a second season. VISIT US AT: DAILYTITAN.COM

While there is no official release date, fans know that production for OBX season two wrapped in January. “Tiger King” This series received rave reviews partly due to its release during the starting months of the pandemic. The show was watched by 34.3 million people over its first 10-day release. This crime documentary explores the interconnected community of big cats conservationists. Viewers follow zoo owner Joe Exotic and his rivalry with animal rights activist Carole Baskin. The two exchange threatening videos, legal allegations, protests and targeted harassment campaigns. In August, it was reported that Netflix renewed the series for a season two, but no release date has been announced. However, Baskin is more reluctant to jump aboard. “Never Have I Ever” Inspired by Mindy Kaling’s childhood, the coming of age comedy-drama is about the complicated life of a first-generation Indian American teenage girl who wants to change her social status, but her friends, family and feelings don’t make that an easy goal to achieve

The show won the People’s Choice Comedy Show of 2020 and was renewed for a second season to premiere sometime this year. Production started in November. “Emily in Paris” “Emily in Paris” is the perfect culmination of “Sex in the City,” “Gossip Girl” and “Carrie Diaries.” The show is about a young American woman from the Midwest who is hired by a marketing firm in Paris to provide them an American point of view. In the season, fans follow Emily through her struggles with love, friendships, culture and a new career. The show became a hot topic when it debuted on Oct. 2, with viewers either loving it or hating it completely. Despite its cultural flaws, the show was popular when it debuted. Netflix confirmed it would return for a second season, but with the pandemic getting in the way, they plan to start production this spring. With the looming anniversary of the COVID-19 lockdown, now is the perfect time to remember the shows that helped fans cope with the fast-changing pace of 2020. As people look forward to a brighter year, may the renewed seasons of favorite binges be a happy thing to push us through 2021.

(Jade McIntyre / Daily Titan) FOLLOW US ON TWITTER: @THEDAILYTITAN