The Hofstra Chronicle Dec. 10 2024

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THE HOFSTRA CHRONICLE

NEWS

The power of music: Honoring Pete Teleha’s legacy through song

By Gianna Costanzo

ASSISTANT COPY CHIEF

Students and staff at Hofstra University continue to honor the life of a classmate, 12 years after his passing.

Pete “Too Tall” Teleha was a rising junior at Hofstra when he passed away in the summer of 2012. The loss was felt throughout the entire university, as he was an active member of five on campus organizations and a valued friend to many.

Twelve years later, his alma mater continues to honor his life and legacy through the annual “Just Sing Memorial Concert,” which is hosted by Hofstra’s chapter of the Phi Delta Theta fraternity and the Hofstra Dutchmen.

The concert featured performances from all of Hofstra’s a cappella groups: The Hofbeats, the Hofstra Dutchmen, Makin’ Treble and Sigma’Cappella.

“As the years go on, we find ourselves in a position where

no active brother has had the privilege of personally knowing [Teleha], but through this concert, his legacy lives on,” said Ryan Farello, a junior finance major and the current president of Phi Delta Theta.

Teleha’s passion for music and involvement on campus inspired this philanthropic event. He was a member of the Phi Delta Theta, Phi Beta Kappa Academic Honors Society, Hofstra Vocal Jazz Ensemble, the Hofstra Dutchmen and Sigma’Cappella.

“This concert shows that [Teleha] left his mark on the school,” said Aidan Schroh, a junior music education major and president of the Hofstra Dutchmen. “I’m sure I speak for all of the performers here today when I say it’s an honor to sing at this event every year.”

Each year, all the proceeds from this event go toward the Pete Teleha Memorial Fund, which is sponsored by Hofstra’s

Rabinowitz Honors College, however, raising money was secondary to the primary goal of the night.

“Our biggest goal is mostly just getting everybody together and sharing [Teleha’s] story and spreading the message of positivity and togetherness that [Teleha] brought to Hofstra,” said Zach Kiekhaefer, a senior music business major and the fundraising chair and parent secretary for Phi Delta Theta. Kiekhaefer is also a senior member of The Hofbeats.

lowed audience members to get to know who Teleha was before his tragic passing.

A video projection of Teleha’s friends and family welcomed audience members into the Student Center Theater. This al-

SPORTS

By Anthony Hidalgo STAFF WRITER

After an 0-4 road trip, the Hofstra University women’s basketball team broke their four game losing streak with a 55-52 win over Howard University on Sunday, Dec. 8. The Pride is now 3-5. Howard’s losing streak now sits at three and their record is 5-5.

LaNae’ Corbett had a careerhigh 17 points and seven rebounds to go along with a career-high two steals.

“I basically felt like I was just unstoppable,” Corbett said. “My team gives me confidence like ‘go ahead, you got it.’ So, I feel like just having the confidence, and going in and driving because if I miss, I got somebody

“[Teleha] was not only a Dutchman, but he was one of the founding members of the group,” Farello said. “That gives

Hofstra snaps four game skid with win over Howard

to get the rebound.”

Chloe Sterling provided a strong first half performance, scoring 10 of her 13 points in the first two quarters while grabbing eight rebounds and a team-high four assists.

Howard was led by Zennia Thomas, who notched a doubledouble with 15 points and a game-high 13 rebounds. Tyana Walker matched Thomas with 15 points on 47% shooting off the bench. Destiny Howell, the Bison’s leading scorer, was held to just 11 points on 4-of-16 shooting

The Bison jumped out to a quick 7-0 lead to open the game, but Corbett got the Pride offense rolling with a short-range andone jumper. A pair of 3-pointers

from Sterling helped the Pride jump out to a 12-11 lead at the end of the first quarter.

“I just think this team fought,” said Hofstra head coach Danielle Santos Atkinson. “There’s a lot of good, a lot of areas of growth in this game.”

Corbett continued her offensive assault with back-to-back layups to open the second quarter. Emma Von Essen assisted on both baskets as she tied her career-high with four assists, still impacting the game despite a 2-12 shooting night.

Hofstra extended their lead to seven points midway through the quarter, but Howard responded in kind with a 6-0 run. The Pride finished the half, grabbing four offensive re-

bounds in the final two minutes and earning two trips to the charity stripe en route to a 28-24 lead.

Both sides struggled to start the third, scoring just one point on a combined 0-for-11 shooting. Walker finished the quarter strong, including a pair of layups in the final two minutes to bring her side within two.

Three points from both Corbett and Micaela Carter down the stretch helped to maintain Hofstra’s lead as the Pride entered the fourth quarter with a 41-35 advantage.

Howard scored eight of the first 10 points in the fourth to tie the game at 43 apiece, but a 3-pointer from Von Essen put the Pride back on top. With the

us the honor of passing on his appreciation of music and performance, both to new members of our group, as well as the audiences that we perform for.”

Each year, the Dutchmen honor Teleha’s legacy through

CONTINUED ON A4

score at 48-45, neither team scored for over three and a half minutes until Sterling hit a jumper to put the Pride in front by five with a minute left. Howell tried her best to mount a comeback for Howard with five points in the final minute, hitting her only 3-pointer of the game with 10 seconds left to bring the Bison within one point.

The Pride knocked down seven of eight free throws in the quarter with Von Essen and Carter hitting a pair of free throws in the final seconds to seal the victory.

Photo courtesy of Gianna Costanzo // Hofstra Chronicle

The members of Phi Delta Theta pose for a picture in shirts that read “Too Tall” on the back, which was Teleha’s nickname.

Senior Send-off: My words unspoken

By Annie MacKeigan PHOTOGRAPHY EDITOR

Words have never come easy to me. Even now, I’m not quite sure how to sum up my time at Hofstra University. I have been extremely shy my whole life. You might question why someone who blushes a shade close to magenta during any form of public speaking would choose journalism as a major, a field which requires extensive social skills and is extroverted by nature.

You have more than likely heard the phrase “a picture is worth a thousand words,” but to me, a photo holds my whole vocabulary. To me, a photo is everything. Joining The Hofstra Chronicle was such an important piece in my realization that photography could be more than just a hobby for me. It has allowed me to explore the blend and balance of photography and journalism that I so desperately crave. And even though I still sometimes struggle with my words, I know that my voice is unwavering. I believe so

strongly in helping people tell their stories because I know just how hard it can be, and how important those stories are to tell. My desire to give a platform to these meaningful stories will always outweigh my shyness. That’s one thing I’m sure of.

As I prepare to leave the wonderful Hofstra community behind, I am confident that all the lessons I learned on the back of my camera will help me to enter the real world. Some of my best shots come together in a matter of seconds, when I least expect them. My tools to properly expose and compose these shots are right at my fingertips, reminding me that every photo I take is a product of my own creation and capability. I plan to carry these tools with me, like the camera that I swing over my shoulder during a shoot.

As I am writing this, I feel like I’m scrolling through the playback button on the camera of my Hofstra experience to remember that there are so many pictures of times I treasure. I see working with the men’s soccer

program as the team photographer, and my luck in witnessing and photographing repeat conference champions. I recall the opportunity that a few talented journalists and I had to capture the presidential campaign rally that came to town this year in September. I also see long Monday nights spent in the office, the shared moments between all the devoted – and hilarious – section editors. I can view all the relationships I’ve built and challenges I’ve overcome. I also see my development from a shy but curious student to a spirited (though still shy) photojournalist.

I wish I could express my gratitude to everyone who helped me get to where I am today, but I feel that my words just won’t do my appreciation justice. To Al Bello, thank you for showing me that a passion for photography can be a career. To Brian McFadden, thank you for your mentorship. To Sophia Guddemi, former news editor and the reason I seriously pursued the Chronicle, thank you

for being my journalistic partner in crime and supporting me the whole way through. To Makenzie Hurt, thank you for leading me and the rest of this whole team of editors to excellence. To the rest of upper management, thank you for your dedication to this paper. Your work doesn’t go unnoticed, keep it up! To my wonderful staff photographers, continue putting in the work! Your photos deserve to be seen and celebrated, don’t forget that.

To Alex Ferreira and Charlotte Mysliwiec, thank you for assisting me this semester. To Joe Orovitz and Kumba Jagne, I couldn’t be more proud to pass this section off to you. I know you are both going to do wonderful things within it, and I can’t wait to watch it all happen from the other side. And finally, to everyone else involved in the Chronicle in any capacity, I urge you to take every opportunity and cherish every moment; it really does go by even faster than the click of a camera flash. Don’t forget to capture a photo or two along the way.

Photography editor Annie Mackeigan will be graduating in Dec. 2024.

Photo courtesy of Alexis Freidman // Hofstra Chronicle

Hofstra University rings in the holiday spirit

By Camryn Bowden ASSISTANT NEWS EDITOR

Traditions are an important part of any community, and this year, despite the freezing temperatures, students, faculty, staff and members of administration gathered outside the Joan and Donald E. Axinn Library for this year’s annual “Hofstra Hall lighting.” The unity felt during this event brought the warmth of camaradery and companionship to all who celebrate during this holiday season.

This year’s 41st celebration of the unveiling of holiday lights on Hofstra Hall welcomed in students, new and old, and offered space to unwind just a couple weeks before finals, where those present were also able to reflect on the values of diversity and community that are core tenants of the university.

Hofstra’s President Susan Poser shared remarks at the event.

“Despite the frigid temperatures, it’s a joy to celebrate our progress,” Poser said. “Our beautifully transformed library symbolizes our hard work and commitment to enhancing the campus experience. I’m grateful for everyone’s presence and the incredible efforts of the team that made this celebration possible.”

Some new students, who were celebrating this event for the first time, shared their excite-

ment for the annual observance.

“I’ve seen pictures of it, and it just seems so gorgeous. It’s a great way to bring in holiday cheer and lift everyone’s spirits before finals,” said Emma Rizzo, a freshman forensic science major.

Some students who have been at Hofstra for longer also expressed delight at their first attendance of this tradition. Jared Walcott, a sophomore marketing major, shared that sentiment.

“This is my first time here. I’m feeling neutral, but there’s a lot going on, so I’m hopeful it’ll be a great event,” Walcott said.

Others such as Victoria Griffin, a sophomore marketing major, came to see the event last year.

“I think this year, they’re really putting a lot of effort into it and I’m excited to see it,” she said.

Hofstra originally began the tradition as a Dutch Sinterklaas celebration as an homage to the founders of Hofstra, Kate and William Hofstra. Since the expansion of the university, including the blossoming student population in recent years, the tradition has evolved, becoming a time to celebrate all holiday traditions from many different cultures, embodying the spirit of diversity and unity.

Student Government Association (SGA) President Lincoln Anniballi spoke a bit more about the goals the event seeks to

promote.

“We have a great community at Hofstra, and it’s great to celebrate all of our traditions and holidays and all of the members of the Hofstra community,” Anniballi said. “We’re so happy that we can do that, and over time we’ve had such a diverse and growing community.”

He also shared how happy he was to be able to participate in the festivities as SGA president.

“I’m proud to serve as the government president and to light a hall tonight in representation of all of our wonderful communities here at Hofstra.”

This year, an emphasis was placed on resilience and inclusivity, including contributions from several different organizations across campus through various activities after the lighting.

Following the hall lighting, students and faculty were welcomed into the Sondra and David S. Mack Student Center dining hall for more festivities including musical performances, hot food and drinks, athlete appearances and speeches.

Hofstra Hall will remain lit for the rest of December, and the tradition is likely to return next year for its 42nd anniversary.

Camryn Bowden wrote for this article, with additional reporting contributions from Mashiat Azmi.

Photo courtesy of Matteo Bracco / University Photography

Hofstra Hall will be decorated with lights for the rest of December to ring in the Holiday season on campus.

their choice of songs. They perform a vocal warm-up that Teleha composed and, as a tribute to Teleha’s parents, they perform “True Colors” by Cyndi Lauper. They end their performance each year with a remix of the songs “Pour Some Sugar On Me” by Def Leppard and “Fat Bottomed Girls” by Queen, which Teleha also partially composed.

“[The ‘Pour Some Sugar On Me’ and ‘Fat Bottom Girls’ remix] goes from the sadness and the remembrance [of the memorial] right into this boisterous, joyful, happy, entertaining alumni song,” said Grace Gustafson, a sophomore double major in psychology and criminology with a minor in forensic science and a member of The Hofbeats. “And it just really captures the happiness and the joy that we all feel to be here.”

Sigma’Cappella also honored Teleha by performing a song that he once sang as a solo: “Blackbird” by The Beatles.

The power of music cont.

Theo Bazin, junior music major with a concentration in voice performance and member of Sigma’Cappella, composed that song for the memorial concert last year and performed it, not knowing the significance of the song.

“After we performed it [last year], [his] father came up to me and said that [Teleha] had sung ‘Blackbird’ in his time at Hofstra. Completely coincidental,” Bazin said. “I had no idea that it had that significance. It was really awesome.”

The meaningful songs and moving performances created a welcoming atmosphere in the theater that was appreciated by both the performers and the audience members.

“I’m so moved by the energy in this room,” said Cade Ferguson, a junior computer science and mathematics double major with a minor in German and president of Sigma’Cappella.

“It’s abundantly clear that [Teleha] had a tremendous impact on Hofstra, and it’s really

incredible to see how many people he’s touched, even people that never got the opportunity to know him.”

After the last a cappella group performed, each group, as well as the members of Phi Delta Theta, joined together on stage to perform one last song: “Lean on Me” by Bill Withers. They were met with a standing ovation from Teleha’s father, Chris Teleha. Teleha’s parents travel from Pennsylvania every year to attend the concert.

major in criminology and psychology. “It was really beautiful seeing all of them get together in unity.”

“A moment that stood out to me was when all of the groups got together, including the frat that he was in, and they all got together to sing,” said Sophia Zalewski, a sophomore double

Another example of unity could be seen in the wave of blue that painted the theater and stage. The members of Phi Delta Theta wore matching T-shirts that read “Too Tall” on the back, which was Teleha’s nickname.

“[Teleha] brought an unfor-

gettable energy to the group that really lives on to this day,” Ferguson said. “As a group, we strive to carry on his legacy of acceptance and positivity, and because of him, we’re reminded to cherish every second we have together, and that’s an amazing thing.”

After the fraternity and a cappella groups finished performing the last song of the night, Teleha’s father stood for a standing ovation.

Gianna Costanzo / Hofstra Chronicle

Graphic designed by Camryn Bowden and Giovanni Salsa and information

On April 8, at 4 a.m., the RSR working in Bill of Rights Hall reported to PS that two HU students and a non-student failed to comply with Hofstra guest policy and verbally harassed the RSR. The nonstudent was banned from campus, and the two students were issued referrals to CS for their actions.

Public Safety Briefs

Compiled by Moriah Sukhlal

unknown male steal items from the Sondra and David S. Mack Student Center dining hall. PS responded but were unable to locate the individual. The employee refused police assistance. An investigation is being conducted into the matter.

On April 11, at 2:18 p.m., it was reported to PS that an unknown person wrote messages in chalk on the sidewalk on the south side of Hofstra Hall. Photos were taken of the graffiti, and an investigation is being conducted into this matter. The plant department was notified for cleanup.

tution Hall sounded due to a curling iron. The building was evacuated within one minute, without incident. PS, Plant and UFD responded. The situation was corrected, and the fire alarm was reset.

On April 8, at 11:14 p.m., the RA in Utrecht House reported to PS that, while conducting rounds, there were loud noises coming from a room. PS responded and discovered open bottles of alc

On Thursday, Nov. 21, at 1:26 p.m., an HU employee alerted PS to a flyer being distributed for a concert in Pride Park on Nov. 22. Upon investigation, it was determined that the flyer was distributed by an HU student. PS spoke to the student, who indicated there was no concert planned.

on a wall on the third floor of Shapiro Family Hall. Plant was notified and the graffiti was removed. An investigation is being conducted.

On April 12, at 9:50 p.m., the fire alarm in Estabrook Hall was activated due to hair care products. The alarm sounded, and the building was evacuated. PS, the plant department and the Uniondale Fire Department responded to the location. The situation was corrected, and the fire alarm was reset.

On Sunday, Nov. 24, at 9:25 p.m., the fire alarm in Stuyvesant Hall sounded in the kitchen due to burnt food on the stove. Sixty-eight people were evacuated within one minute, without incident. PS, Plant and UFD responded. The situation was corrected, and the fire alarm was reset.

On April 8, at 4 a.m., the RSR working in Bill of Rights Hall reported to PS that two HU students and a non-student failed to comply with Hofstra guest policy and verbally harassed the RSR. The non-student was banned from campus, and the two students were issued referrals to CS for their actions.

On April 8, at 11:14 p.m., the RA in Utrecht House reported to PS that, while conducting rounds, there were loud noises coming from a room. PS responded and discovered open bottles of alcohol. Six students were issued referrals to CS.

On Thursday, Nov. 21, at 4:25 p.m., an HU employee reported that he observed an

On Thursday, Nov. 21, at 8:05 p.m., an HU employee said that they were walking towards their car in parking field 2B when a vehicle struck them, causing injury to the left side of their torso. The HU student driving the vehicle stated that they were making a right turn and did not see the pedestrian. Hempstead Police Department responded, and the employee pedestrian refused any further medical treatment after a Northwell Health emergency medical services evaluation.

On Friday, Nov. 22, at 5:31 p.m., the fire alarm in Consti-

On April 11, at 10:20 a.m., an HU plant employee reported to PS that he accidentally damaged a vehicle owned by another Hofstra employee on Holland Road while working on the main campus. The owner of the vehicle was notified about the damage and responded to PS.

On Wednesday, Nov. 27, at 2:51 p.m., the fire alarm in Constitution Hall sounded due to hair care products. Twentyfive people were evacuated within nine minutes, without incident. PS, Plant and UFD responded. The situation was corrected, and the fire alarm was reset.

On April 14, at 5:25 p.m., the fire alarm in Hampton House was activated due to burnt food in the kitchen. The alarm sounded, and the building was evacuated. PS, the plant department and the Uniondale Fire Department responded to the location. The situation was corrected, and the fire alarm was reset.

On Saturday, Nov. 30, at 8:00 p.m., an HU student reported that an unknown person removed their bicycle from the exterior North bicycle rack of the Netherlands Core sometime between Nov. 25 and Nov. 26.

On Monday, Dec. 2, at 1:10 p.m., an HU employee who was driving vehicle one reported hitting vehicle two at parking field 2B while it was parked and unoccupied. Damage to vehicle one’s right front bumper and vehicle two’s right front quarter panel was discovered. No injuries were reported, and no police assistance was requested. Vehicle two is also registered to an HU employee.

On April 15, at 10:19 a.m., the fire alarm in New York House was activated due to burnt food in the kitchen. The alarm sounded, and the building was evacuated. PS, the plant department and the Uniondale Fire Department responded to the location. The situation was corrected, and the fire alarm was reset.

On Sunday, Nov. 24, at 9:41 p.m., the fire alarm in Bill of Rights sounded due to a curling iron. Seventy-five people were evacuated within two minutes without incident. PS, Plant and UFD responded. The situation was corrected, and the fire alarm was reset.

On Saturday, Nov. 30, at 10:50 p.m., PS discovered unauthorized posters in several locations across campus. The director on duty was notified.

On April 15, at 6:53 p.m., an HU student reported to PS that they lost their wallet containing their driver’s license, Hofstra ID, debit card and cash. The wallet was lost in a location off campus. The NCPD responded and took a report.

On Monday, Dec. 2, at 12:30 p.m., an HU employee reported that there was graffiti

On April 16, at 9:44 a.m., an HU student reported to PS that some of their laundry was missing from the laundry room in Alliance Hall. The student requested a police response.

By Peter Massarrone STAFF WRITER

Meet Mack, Hofstra University’s first ever community resource dog. Mack is a chocolate brown Australian Labradoodle with a boatload of energy and a heart that is excited to embrace Hofstra’s students.

Mack is a puppy, but he’s been growing faster and stronger with each passing day. You’ve most likely heard about his arrival, seen him doing his daily walks around campus with Hofstra staff and Public Safety or even got so lucky as to have Mack stop for you to pet him.

Mack is the head ambassador of Hofstra’s PAWS Program: Promoting Assistance, Wellness & Support. The program is focused on promoting all aspects of Public Safety’s benefits to the Hofstra community. Public Safety is primarily here to help students in emergencies, but they provide much more than that. Public Safety is here to support students of Hofstra in times of stress and create a welcoming community. Mack allows for Public Safety to have more interactions with students

By Josie Racette

COPY CHEIF

As the end of the semester draws near, I’ve been reflecting on my past three and a half years here at Hofstra University. The people I’ve met and the organizations I’ve joined have made me who I am today. Cheesy, I know, but it’s true. I’ve met some of my closest friends since coming to Hofstra.

While joining clubs is one of the obvious ways to meet new people and make new friends, another way that people don’t talk about enough is living together. When you decide to live on campus as a first-year, people suggest that you live in a suite. Along with Stuyvesant Hall, there is a specific cluster of buildings on the North side of campus for first-year students called the Netherlands Complex. There are five buildings in the Netherlands South and six buildings in the Netherlands North. Each building

FEATURES

This Hofstra Life: Mack the Dog

in a positive way, all by simply allowing students to stop and pet Mack whenever he does his daily walks with staff members. Mack is truly bridging the gap between students and staff, all the while uniting Hofstra’s community around his childlike joy.

Plans for Mack to come to campus have been in the works for about two years. The concept for Mack was modeled after similar pet-focused programs at Yale University, Princeton University and Salve Regina University that proved positive for community outreach. Extensive research was conducted on what impact a dog like Mack could have on the Hofstra community, which was then pitched to Hofstra’s leadership team to make it a reality.

Mack has been at Hofstra for only a few months, but his impact has been astounding. He even has his own student identification! Mack recently attended Hofstra’s men’s basketball opening game, cheering on our team.

For students faced with multiple tests or papers and tight deadlines, Mack has been a way to relieve stress. His presence around campus allows students to stop thinking about their schoolwork

for a minute, decompress and play around. For students who come from out-of-state and are severely missing their pets back home, they have found solace in being able to connect with Mack. Mack fills the void for students that have the urge to run back home to reunite with their own loving pets by simply being there for students to pet and make a connection with.

You can see how much the Hofstra community loves Mack since it takes him so long to get from one side of campus to the other. Mack can’t even make it halfway from his “office” on campus to the Sondra and David S. Mack Student Center without being stopped 10 to 20 times by excited students.

Mack’s friendly personality is thanks to his mother working as a therapy dog, as well as a 12week training where Mack was able to become accustomed to the hustle and bustle of Hofstra’s campus and gain the ability to comfort and support busy students. As a young pup, Mack’s favorite activity is to jog and get all his pent up energy out, which is why you’ll see him on campus most of the time.

Students can request Mack to make an appearance at their own events, whether that be a student club, department event or even a one-on-one meeting. All it takes is an email over to Jovanni Ortiz, one of Public Safety’s assistant directors, and you’ll be seeing Mack in no time. His calendar has been always booked with requests from students, proving that he’s become a very popular figure, but also showing the impact he has made in such a short

Personal Essay: suite-style living

has two floors filled with suitestyle rooms.

I’ve lived (and currently am living) in a four-person suite as I have for all four years that I’ve been here. As a first year, it was in Orange House in the Netherlands. From my sophomore year to my senior year, I have been in Newport House in Colonial Square. Since the beginning, I’ve lived with the same people, and they quickly became my best friends at Hofstra.

When I was looking to match with people on ZeeMee in the spring and summer before coming to college, there was only one person I really connected with. We were both from Massachusetts, had a younger sibling and loved music. It was great knowing who I would be sharing a room with.

I didn’t meet my two suitemates until we got our room assignments. Anyone who lives on campus knows that you get an

email from Residence Life with the people you will be rooming with. That’s how our first group chat was formed, and we met for the first time on move-in day. From that day forward, we never looked back.

Welcome Week was how we all got to know each other. We attended the seminars together and had dinner as a group. In our free time, we watched silly movies and shows with each other. Right before classes were about to start, we all went on an Explore Next Door trip to the Statue of Liberty. Those memories were small, but they were the foundation of a friendship that will hopefully last a lifetime.

Over the last three and a half years, we held a plethora of movie nights and game nights. A couple of people have come and gone in our close friend group, while some have stayed to this day. Living in a suite has given me built-in friends that I probably

time frame at Hofstra. Go ahead and check out Mack’s page on the Hofstra website to get in contact.

You can find Mack walking around campus throughout weekdays, in the Student Center Plaza East during common hour on Mondays and occasionally at Hofstra’s major sporting or community events. Whenever you see the fluffy, brown bundle of joy, make sure to stop and say hello!

never would have met otherwise. There are still some things that we are figuring out, like a cleaning schedule for the dorm. Other things just come naturally to us like annoying each other while procrastinating homework or asking on a whim if anyone wants to meet up after class to get dinner. Senior year has been busy with all our different schedules. My roommate has been in Washing-

ton D.C. for the fall but is returning for the spring. My suitemates and I are excited to end our four years at Hofstra together.

If you’re reading this and are a first-year living in a suite or even a tower, I suggest you get to know your roommate and suitemates. You may realize you have more in common than you think.

Photo courtesy of Josie Racette

Photo courtesy of Hofstra University

By Aidan Judge ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

As I write this letter to myself (and all readers of The Hofstra Chronicle), I sit alone in my childhood bedroom, swallowed by distant memories of a version of myself that I’ve been longing for throughout the whole year. There are tattered running bibs from my cross-country days stuck to the wall, childhood outfits that would cling tightly to my skin now that I’ve grown into my adult body and favorite books of the past. Going through drawers brings a tear to my eye some days. It’s heart-wrenching how adolescence runs from you when you come face-to-face with the beginning of the real world in college.

Now that the year has begun to wind down, my everyday memories are flooded with the nuances of 2024. Some are shattered desires and hateful memories and some are full of warmth and comforting bliss that reel me back towards my beloved past self. I can confidently say that 2024 was the most emotionally tumultuous year for me thus far and was a year that force-fed me

By Craig Mannino STAFF WRITER

If you are looking for something new to spice up your social media landscape, Bluesky may be the app for you. Bluesky started in 2019 as an experiment in social media decentralization by former Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey. Development was slow at first but sped up when Dorsey sold Twitter to Elon Musk in Oct. 2022. Bluesky finally opened to public users in February of this year.

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lessons on life. I’ve found that I hold on to words and moments like children hold their mothers’ hands – tightly and with love, never letting it slip away. These are some special memories that I keep warm in my palm.

I started my year in Los Angeles, California, surrounded by dear friends. For every moment I experienced, the shadows of my subconscious plagued the soul of that trip. I wish I had been more present and willing to live life exceptionally.

I find myself longing for the warm wraps of the California sunlight around me but wishing to expel the negative screeches of self-doubt that pinned me down and taped my mouth shut. It was thrilling to find out that I loved Los Angeles and equally thrilling to know how much power my mind had and how I would never know the Aidan of the past. Thank you, Los Angeles, for teaching me strength and the dichotomy of emotion. I spent time in the haven of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, with my rocks, Joe and Sascha, two consistent respites in a treacherous path for me. As we sat on

FEATURES

Dear 2024

the golden beaches of Nauset Sound, I wondered if they knew I was thinking of my flow of tears during their final episode of “Thursday Nite Live.” I feared our friendship would fizzle like the waves crashing into the beach before us, but instead, it stayed vigilant like a flame in the dead of winter. Thank you, Joe and Sascha, for teaching me that love can be full if you’re willing to tend to it.

My best friend Frankie moved into my house. As my lonely moments consumed my most earnest smiles, I thought I would be always searching for stars in the dark after moments like losing my dream internship, seeing some of my family for the last time in Portugal and losing another man who I thought might finally be the breakthrough. But then, Frankie came along. Life sends you blessings wrapped in unconventional things and brings sources of unadulterated joy to your doorstep when you least expect it. Thank you, Frankie, for igniting the happiness in me that I thought had left forever and reminding me just how joyous friendship

can be when it’s real.

To anyone who crossed my path, I hope you’re still holding the piece of my heart that I gave to you. Whether we were a candle in the wind that blew out, an exhilarating dive into a new ocean of possibilities or an old reliable that still works just like it should, just know that you taught me something I did not know and am grateful to possess now. I let the memories of all of you blend my mind into something grander than it has ever been, and because of that, I will sleep happy for the nights to come.

Despite the happy memories that shaped my head and heart, I also would like to thank all the sadness, tears and depression that troubled me in moments of strife. Without moments of anger, hurting the ones I love and moments of bleakness staring into an infinite sky, I would not be able to plant myself in rich soil and let my flowers bloom. A rainstorm must come through to create grasses of emerald green, and the invigorating smell of petrichor afterward makes your now sopping-wet hair worth it.

I leave this letter to 2024 with

Chron Critiques: Bluesky

Though that may sound akin to following a topic on other similar platforms, Bluesky’s feeds completely change the posts users see. On similar platforms, those topics are integrated into your feed, but on Bluesky, those topics are your feed. Bluesky also allows users to create user lists that double as quasi-feeds comprised of users on that list and as a centralized collection of accounts in a specific category.

In this way, Bluesky is the most customizable and controllable social media platform I have used. There is an abundance of feeds about tons of topics –including “Blacksky,” which specifically features black creators – and if you cannot find the feed you want, you can create your own. Bluesky can be whatever you want it to be, and the user interface to do so is incredibly simple and easy to use.

The main issue I have with Bluesky is an increased risk of echo chambers. Because filtering

what you do and do not want to see is so easy on Bluesky, I worry users will rarely see posts challenging their perspectives. In fact, you can already see this trend emerging: there is a user-created “Democrats” feed comprised of posts by prominent Democrats, but no user has created a Republican equivalent. Because it is so easy to remove certain ideas from your feed – and because some political ideas are underrepresented on the platform – Bluesky users are uniquely at risk of falling into echo chambers.

Conversely, though, because Bluesky is so customizable, users who try to can combat echo chambers more proactively than they would be able to on other platforms. In fact, a “Republicans & Democrats” feed of posts that mention both parties already exists (though it has only four likes). Moreover, because Bluesky only has 24 million users – by comparison, Instagram has 2 bil-

the idea I have fixated on these last few days. If you are reading this, please know that you are far from perfect, and always will be far from it. As I am writing these words, I am still struggling with that concept, failing to conceptualize the idea of imperfection completely in my mind.

Please know that your worst moments are what humanize you and make your story interesting and why your story is still being written. If everything went according to plan, it would be so devastating when it eventually does not. The shit you talked about someone that they found out about, that financial decision that had repercussions, that fit you threw over something not worth your precious energy have all turned your clay body into sculpture.

There is no crowning without a journey backing it, and once you are beside greatness and diamonds line your head, you will be able to smile earnestly, and not because it is expectated of you.

lion users – I am unsure if this problem of underrepresented political viewpoints will persist as the platform grows and more users of diverse political backgrounds make accounts, feeds and user lists.

I cannot talk about Bluesky without also talking about X (formerly known as Twitter). Since Musk purchased the platform in Oct. 2022 and rebranded it in July 2023, users, including myself, have exited in droves. I chose to leave when I noticed a shift in X’s algorithm toward promoting bots, unvetted advertisements and toxic accounts that sponsor harmful ideals. Using the app was not fun anymore, and I did not realize how much I missed it until I downloaded Bluesky.

It is hard not to notice how similar Bluesky is to Twitter, and

to me, that is one of its biggest draws. Bluesky scratches an itch Twitter once did, and its customizability makes it the most unique and interesting platform to come out in a while. If you are like me and deleted X, make an account. If you want more control over your social media algorithms, try out the feeds and user lists. And if you just want to doomscroll on something new, Bluesky is the perfect app for you.

Photo Courtesy of Bluesky

M AN ON THE U NISPAN

What is your favorite holiday movie?

By Zoe Casselman and Lily Anzalone

EDITOR

O verheard @ h O fstra

“The only cunty thing about me is my hemoglobin.”

“‘How The Grinch Stole Christmas,’ the cartoon”

- Sara Bowles, senior

“‘Assassin 33 A.D.’ is an evangelical film about going back in time to kill Jesus.’”

- Kogen Serrano, senior

“‘Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince.’ I just think that after Mr. Weasley gets attacked by the snake it has the air of hopefulness people are looking for during the holidays!”

- Jill Kenny, senior

“Can we normalize child pageants again?”

“I’m playing ‘Roblox’ at the lesbian bar right now. ”

“I really want to play ‘Fortnite’ with Nancy Pelosi.”

“I love the idea of cannibalism.”

“Guys, I might risk prosecution tonight.”

“Is that the preferred name? Megamind?”

“My mom posted a photo of me pole dancing on my birthday.”

“I treat my plants like Gypsy Rose.”

“I’m going to kitty law school where I’ll major in meowing and minor in dog hatred.”

Spread by Audra Nemirow

Zoe Casselman / The Hofstra Chronicle

FEATURES

Icebreakers: Free will (not the Rush song)

By Makenzie Hurt EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

“It takes the crinkling of squirrels walking in the leaves to remind me that not every noise you hear at night is a murderous killer, not every ache is a signal of death or disease and not each bad day makes for a lifetime of bad. As Prince once sang, sometimes it snows in April, and as Guns n’ Roses said, it always rains in November. Existence is not linear, and neither is pain. The universe will do the work, but you’ve got to do the heavy lifting. Unfortunately, we have free will.”

This was the journal entry I shared in my poetry class with Professor Connie Roberts, who always prompts thoughtful questions in our class. In poetry, things tend to get heavy, so the

concept of life and death, free will and existential questions are sometimes brought up.

I’ve always struggled with the idea of free will. On one hand, if we do have free will, that means that every choice we make dictates how our future will unfold. In short, every action has its equal opposite reaction. But if we don’t have free will, that means nothing really matters.

Each choice you make isn’t even really a choice.

The lack of free will would equal a lack of responsibility, but the lack of responsibility equals a lack of motivation. But free will indicates too much responsibility.

Is the fact that I didn’t have time to make my morning coffee going to drastically change the tone of this article? Or is it the fact that I stayed up until 1 a.m. playing the New York Times

games the reason I didn’t have time to make my coffee? Or, for those who believe this is all predetermined, did the universe decide that today I would be coffee-less – and dining dollars-less – meaning coffee is currently scarce in my life?

Ever since I was a child, I’ve feared the unknown. Not in an afraid of the dark type of way, which I of course was, but in a “What really happens when I die, Mommy?” type of way. I can vividly remember hanging off the edge of my pool as a child and contemplating whether eternal life is favorable to it all just going dark. I still don’t know.

When I was choosing my classes before entering my freshman year at Hofstra University, my advisor asked me what distribution classes I might be interested in. I immediately said philos-

ophy, and I’m not sure if she knew that she had inadvertently signed me up for two philosophy courses. That semester was one of the most mentally draining of my life but also simultaneously rewarding.

On my first day of freshman year, I sat down for my philosophy course, “What Does it All Mean?” taught by Professor Mark McEvoy. I was very quickly reminded of the existential questions I’ve been asking since childhood and stuffing down into the back of my mind whenever possible. The next day, I sat down for “Philosophy of Education,” which single-handedly had the largest impact on my college experience.

If I can offer one piece of advice to any student interested in education or philosophy, it would be to take a course with Profes-

sor Eduardo Duarte. But show up ready to contribute, and with an open mind. I believe I’ve taken four courses with him since then, and while they slowed down the progression of my getting a degree, they helped me to at least think about my existential questions as well as understand that no one really has the answers, while also finding a great mentor along the way.

Going back to my poetry class, after I shared that brief journal entry, Roberts asked our thoughts on free will. As usual, it was a mixed bag. But as I got to thinking about it, a lack of free will is comforting in the sense that my actions aren’t as monumental as I perceive them to be. Every day, I stress about minutia which probably doesn’t matter at all. But there’s always that “what if.”

Chron Cooks: Holiday cookies ft. Paige Sanacora

By Paige Sanacora STAFF WRITER

The holiday season is busy for everyone. Between gift shopping and cooking for a village, it can be hard to find time to do it all. For this special festive edition of Chron Cooks, I’m going to share with you a few substitutions and additions that you can add to your go-to cookie recipes. Whether they be boxed or homemade, you can add a holiday spin to them without needing to learn an entirely new recipe.

Ingredients:

Your go-to cookie recipe (this can be any type of cookie – I did sugar cookies, chocolate chip cookies and chocolate cookies)

Crushed candy canes and/or candy cane flavored Hershey’s Kisses

Instructions:

Blossoms:

The simplest way to elevate your recipes is by adding a Hershey’s Kisses blossom to the center of your cookies.

1. Press a candy-cane-flavored kiss into the cookie dough. Remove this kiss and save it before baking the cookies to create a divot.

2. Add the kiss back to the divot after the cookies have cooled off, and you’re done!

Peppermint Bark:

Another relatively easy method, though it’s a little trickier, is to make a peppermint bark for your cookies.

1. Using flavored Hershey’s Kisses, melt a handful (or more, depending on how many you make) in a bowl either on the stove or in the microwave until you have thick liquid chocolate.

2. Dip your cookies however you’d like. I did a coating around the edges, but you can fully coat the cookie, or just dip in half of it.

Instructions continued:

3. Set them aside on parchment paper until the coating hardens.

4. Optionally, you can also add crushed candy cane pieces to the bark to add a bit more texture.

Incorporation:

My last peppermint tip is to incorporate candy cane pieces and/or flavored kisses to your batter before baking.

Options:

1. Add crushed candy cane pieces (amount to your liking) to your batter the same way you would add chocolate chips, and stir until thoroughly incorporated.

2. Melt a handful of kisses and stir the mixture into your batter to get more of a peppermint flavor.

For one of my sugar cookie batches, I made both additions. I also made a batch of chocolate chip cookies that I added the candy cane pieces and marshmallows to, which might just be one of my new favorites!

Hofstra Holiday Huzzah

The holiday buzz that only comes around this time of year is taking campus by storm! “Hofstra Celebrates the Holidays,” the hallmark of Hofstra University’s holiday season, included the lighting of Hofstra Hall and festive activities within the Sondra and David S. Mack Student Center. The event on Thursday, Dec. 5, which originally celebrated the feast of Saint Nicholas, has been expanded to include many different traditions to ensure sure all students feel welcome. The night was highlighted by holiday-themed live music, and a few words from President Susan Poser, Student Government Association President Lincoln Anniballi and Office of Student Leadership and Engagement Executive Director Severino Randazzo.

Spread by Annie MacKeigan, Kumba Jagne and Joe Orovitz

Kumba Jagne / The Hofstra Chronicle

Kumba Jagne / The Hofstra Chronicle Kumba Jagne / The Hofstra Chronicle

Annie MacKeigan / The Hofstra Chronicle

Annie MacKeigan / The Hofstra Chronicle

Annie MacKeigan / The Hofstra Chronicle

Annie MacKeigan / The Hofstra Chronicle Kumba Jagne / The Hofstra Chronicle

Kumba Jagne / The Hofstra Chronicle

Background by Annie MacKeigan / The Hofstra Chronicle

Arts And EntErtAinmEnt

Photo courtesy

Yes, part one of ‘Wicked’ is really that good

By Aidan Judge ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

Musical theatre adaptations have always been rocky in the entertainment industry. Whether it’s failed follow-ups to cult classics such as “Grease 2,” or a film trying to hide its musical identity such as “Mean Girls,” movie-musical adaptations can be rather touch-and-go with larger audiences.

If you’ve been to pretty much any store lately, you may have noticed the shelves of major retailers have been splattered with shades of pink and green, the signature colors of 2024’s latest musical adaptation, “Wicked.” I’m happy to say that after seeing “Wicked,” I am much more of a pink and green fan now.

Set as a prequel to the 1939 classic “The Wizard of Oz,” “Wicked” gives you all the juicy, dramatic and emotional details of how witches Glinda and Elphaba’s relationship came to be. Starring pop star Ariana Grande-Butera and Broadway darling Cynthia Erivo, “Wicked” is a delight that has not been seen on the silver

screen in quite some time. Packed with humor, visual spectacles and tearful moments from the mystical land of Oz, director Jon M. Chu has created a favorite for all

perfectly capturing Elphaba’s stark, sarcastic mood and self-sabotaging tendencies which set off the major events of the plot. With two award-worthy performances, Grande-Butera and Erivo have an electric chemistry that creates otherworldly, magical characters that feel incredibly real.

famous number. Erivo shines in her vocal performance, bringing new vocal tricks and inflections that create a heart-stopping and emotional spectacle, ending the film on the highest of highs.

Quick Hits

By Vanessa Flanagan STAFF WRITER

filmgoers to relish in. No review of “Wicked” is proper without acknowledging Grande-Butera and Erivo’s stunning performances. It’s rare to have legacy roles be fulfilled in a new and refreshing way, but the two leading stars do exactly that. Grande-Butera calls back to Kristin Chenoweth’s original Glinda performance but brings enough spunk and bubbly personality to call it uniquely her own, both musically and performancewise. Erivo is in a similar vein,

Musically, “Wicked” respects the content of the original Broadway production while also being fresh enough to reel in a new audience. Particularly, tracks like “No One Mourns the Wicked” and “What is This Feeling?” have begun new lives in the musical theatre realm due to show-stopping performances from Grande-Butera and Erivo. Actor Jonathan Bailey also brought his A-game with a lively take on “Dancing Through Life,” showcasing high-level vocals to the energetic anthem. Of course, it would be rude not to acknowledge Erivo’s performance of “Defying Gravity,” the musical’s most

It’s no surprise that “Wicked” is a visual feast for the eyes with the colorful and vibrant Oz as the landscape for the film’s events –Chu outdid himself with the set for the film. With practical sets and effects being utilized for a majority of the film’s visuals, not only will viewers experience that familiar feeling of “The Wizard of Oz,” but they will be able to revel in it even more due to the sheer scale of magnificence that Chu and the rest of the production crew created.

For fans of both “The Wizard of Oz” and “Wicked,” Chu’s 2024 musical masterpiece is enjoyable no matter who is sitting in front of the screen. Not only has “Wicked” cemented itself as a legacy film for the future, but it has also successfully ignited excitement for its sequel film, set to release on Nov. 21, 2025.

‘Red One’ is better than you think

In “Red One,” Santa Claus’s bodyguard Cal (Dwayne Johnson) and a hacker named Jack (Chris Evans) are forced to save Christmas after Santa Claus (J.K. Simmons) – code name “Red One” – is kidnapped. The two form a reluctant but comedic duo as Cal serves as the head of North Pole security while Jack is a level four naughty-lister. Along the way, they encounter various mythological figures associated with Christmas, such as Krampus. The film’s self-aware and overthe-top nature makes it enjoyable, especially for viewers who appreciate lighthearted, imaginative holiday movies. While reviews have been overwhelmingly negative, there are definitely worse Christmas movies out there.

Admittedly, at just over two hours long, the runtime felt excessive. Although it was not unbearable, several scenes could have been stripped without impacting

the plot. One notable flaw is the forced father-son narrative. Jack, who has been an absent father, makes amends with his son in a rushed scene that fails to evoke

emotion. Jack’s son appears in only in a handful of scenes, leaving their relationship underdeveloped. A strong father-son arc is not necessary for the plot, as this subject adds little to the story and feels like a lazy attempt to mimic the meaningful relationship in “The Santa Clause.”

The computer-generated imagery (CGI) is surprisingly decent

compared to what some might expect, however, there is one scene where it is overwhelmingly noticeable. It’s when Cal runs along rooftops in the North Pole. Some poor CGI is not enough to negatively impact the overall viewing of this movie. Johnson and Evans both shine in their comedic roles. Even though Johnson’s character feels similar to characters he’s played in other films, his performance works for “Red One” as he was a believable bodyguard for Santa Claus. Evans played an enjoyably sly hacker, not straying too far from roles he’s played before, but playing a level four naughty-lister is very different from an upstanding citizen such as Captain America. And even though Santa only appeared in about 10% of the movie, Simmons played him well, especially considering that he was

not playing your stereotypical, overweight and jolly Santa, but a fit and athletic one.

What sets “Red One” apart from other holiday films is its unique take on the traditional holiday movie formula. Many fantasy Christmas movies focus on the possibility of Christmas being canceled. “Code Red” does not feel repetitive as Santa being kidnapped has really only been a notable plot point in “The Nightmare Before Christmas.” It was a nice change of pace for the characters in the movie.

As ridiculous as “Red One” is, it truly does embrace its absurdity. If anyone went into this movie expecting something different and serious, it is obviously going to feel silly. Aside from the occasional curse words, it is a harmless family watch. While it is no “Elf” or “Home Alone,” it could easily become a tolerable annual tradition. If you have a vivid imagination, you will have a great time watching.

Taylor Swift held her final show of ‘The Eras Tour’ on Sunday, Dec. 8, performing 152 shows total throughout the entire tour.

Trisha Paytas made a surprise appearance on ‘Saturday Night Live’ on Saturday, Dec. 7, in an episode hosted by Paul Mescal.

Disney influencer Dominique Brown died at an event hosted by BoxLunch on Thursday, Dec. 5 after an allergic reaction.

Courtesy of Entertainment Weekly

Courtesy of Yahoo

Courtesy of Yahoo

Judy Garland’s ruby red slippers from ‘The Wizard of Oz’ sold for 28 million dollars at an auction.

Sabrina Carpenter released her holiday special ‘A Nonsense Christmas’ on Friday, Dec. 6.

Courtesy of Page Six

Courtesy of Variety

“Wicked” had the highest opening weekend for a musical adaptation of all time.

“Red One” was originally scheduled to release on Amazon Prime in 2023.

Photo courtesy of Rayo

Photo courtesy of Collider

By Paige Sanacora STAFF WRITER

I’m not exaggerating when I say that all I do is read. I will be rounding off the year with over 300 books read, 55 of which were released this year. Some of those new releases were five-star reads, and some of them were a waste of time. Obviously, the new releases we got this year from Emily Henry, Holly Jackson, Kristen Hannah and other big names were up to par with their previous works, and if you’re a fan, they’re worth checking out. I want to highlight some lesserknown favorites of mine from the year. From non-fiction to science fiction, allow me to inform you what books of 2024 are worth reading in 2025.

This year, I read more non-fiction books than ever before. There were so many good memoirs that I could discuss in length, but one lesser-known book that has lived in my head rent-free since I finished it is “This American Ex-Wife” by Lyz Lenz. While this book is a memoir on Lenz’s personal experience as a divorcee in America, it is also a commentary

The best books of 2024

on the inherently sexist stereotypes and culture that surround women of divorce and marriage in general. This book has completely altered the way that I think about what’s considered “normal” in relationship dynamics – I’m not exaggerating when I say that I think about this book daily. There were a couple of strong contenders for my favorite science fiction novel of the year, but “Baby X” by Kira Peikoff reigns supreme. Set in the near future, technology has advanced so far that eggs and sperm can be created from any person’s cells. Celebrities must be wary of their cells being sold by the Vault, the black market for DNA. We follow three narrators that are all affected differently

by the circumstances of the new “normal” of their world. This book kept me guessing the whole way through and left my head spinning once I finished it. I loved

the not-so-distant reality that Peikoff created, particularly the moral questions raised throughout the novel regarding the ethics of this advanced science. Another book that stood out to me in many ways this year was “The Infinity Alchemist” by Kacen Callender. If a book has a magic school in it, I’m going to read it. While the novel

has a lot of familiar elements in it – enemies to lovers, keeping secrets and a quest for power –Callender’s novel was the first that I have read that included a main character who is gender fluid as well as someone who is in a polyamorous relationship. This book is the absolute definition of representation for race and sexual and gender orientation. I have never read anything as unique as this, balancing these elements with a unique magic system and gripping plot.

By Michael Gaborno STAFF WRITER

Music and film are two incredibly powerful and widely consumed art forms, so when the latter is artistically informed by the former and filmmakers understand how to execute this tantalizing marriage, cinema’s potential can seldom be more exciting. The following films exhibit such qualities, ranging from highly recognized classics from bygone eras of Hollywood to wildly different modern critiques of fame in the music industry that are masterful all the same.

Bob Fosse’s “All That Jazz”

Though undeniably flashy and set against the backdrop of musical theatre, Fosse’s self-critical magnum opus sees the dance and stage legend not only bearing his soul to the audience but tearing it apart with striking opulence and bleak cynicism. Roy Scheider

plays a fictionalized version of Fosse, demonstrating an unforgettable gravitas that very few performers in history achieve as he attempts to balance editing a major Hollywood production and kicking off a highly anticipated Broadway show. Ironically, the filmmaker pulls off a headspinning feat by depicting this burden and his downward spiral with zero varnish, instead marrying the adrenaline-pumping choreography and eye-popping visual design with such frenetic fervor and remarkable self-loathing that all the color and pomp is imbued with tragedy and madness. Unsurprisingly, the end result is far from light viewing, but “All That Jazz” emerged as one of the most defining portraits of artistry and the devastating toll it takes.

Milos Forman’s “Amadeus”

As monumental and majestic as any epic Hollywood biopic but more deeply felt and layered than

If you’re looking for a new romantic comedy author to throw your money at, I can introduce you to Christine Riccio and her third book, “Attached at the Hip.” The main character applies for a “Survivor”-esque reality show but ends up being cast in an experimental version of that show where every contestant is connected to a possible love connection by a six-foot rope and isolated on an island. I am a long-time fan of Riccio’s and have never been disappointed by any of her books. There are so many easter eggs for “Survivor” fans to catch, and many twists and heartfelt moments that only made me love this book more.

My absolute favorite book of 2024 is “We Used to Live Here” by Marcus Kliewer. After a queer couple, Eve and Charlie, buy a seemingly perfect house to flip, a family comes knocking saying that they used to live there. As their quick visit to reminisce keeps extending, strange happenings begin. Or is it all in Eve’s head? I have genuinely never been so scared reading a book in my whole life. I live for the creepy vibes in my thriller and horror reads, and this book absolutely delivered. Every time I thought I had figured out what was going on, something new unfolded and I fell back into the dark. This book is an absolute must-read, especially for fellow mystery and thriller lovers. Reading is a gift, and I have made it my job to spread the joy of reading. I sincerely hope this list inspires and gives readers the initiative to add these books to their to-be-read lists.

Films that are alive with the sound of music

most, “Amadeus” is an undisputed classic worthy of its heavenly stature. Forman conducts his cinematic symphony with precision and grace, never fluffing up its ambitious narrative and never omitting the smaller, magical details that ultimately complete a film like this. F. Murray Abraham and Tom Hulce collide as renowned composers Antonio Salieri and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, respectively. Both are forces to be reckoned with, as they dramatically rival each other amidst the staggering sets, costumes and music that formulate this iconic masterwork.

Jorma Taccone and Akiva Schaffer’s “Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping” It may not be as cinematically prestigious as the other films mentioned, but regardless, The Lonely Island’s riotous mockumentary deserves praise as it relentlessly

and cleverly satirizes the 21st Century music industry. “Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping” offers an array of memorable original songs and a murderers’ row of comedic and celebrity cameos while staying true to its entertaining convictions. It’s all spurred along by co-writer Andy Samberg, who is perfect as the douchey, airheaded Conner4Real, navigating the nonstop series of gags with wit and a beating heart that sneaks up in the final act. Above all, this is 87 swift minutes of extremely funny and still frustratingly topical skewering of fame and entitlement, making it one of the best comedies and music-centered films of its decade.

Todd Field’s “Tar” Field ended his famous 15-year absence from the industry with “Tar,” a psychological odyssey that charts a famous composer’s fall from grace following accusa-

tions of misconduct. Its narrative is sprawling yet meticulous, its form minimalist yet intriguing, its themes dense yet richly rewarding. It feels redundant to describe Cate Blanchett as outstanding, yet the thespian somehow travels to new depths to bring to life one of the most fascinating and devastating portrayals of the personal corruption of power. She and Field, importantly, present the microscopic ways that her character tries to hold onto that power, with everything from the haunting soundscape, quietly rhythmic cutting, disconcerting production design and stark, multifaceted cinematography coming together like a darkly alluring orchestra heralding an unabashed cinematic triumph.

In the weeks following its release, “This American Ex-Wife” was named a New York Times best seller.

Photo courtesy of Little Village Magazine

By Grace Luty STAFF WRITER

‘Maybe Happy Ending’ is proof love knows no bounds

SPOILER WARNING

Can a robot fall in love? It couldn’t truly be possible, right?

“Maybe Happy Ending” suggests otherwise. The musical recently hit the Broadway scene on Nov. 12, at the Belasco Theater in New York City, New York. It stars “Glee” cast member Darren Criss as a Helperbot named Oliver and Broadway actress Helen J. Shen as a Helperbot named Claire.

Lasting about two hours, the play has two acts: Act 1 is called “The Ending” and Act 2 is called “The Happy Ending.” “Maybe Happy Ending” dazzles in presentation. The stage changes are smooth, using two small sliding rooms that move on and off the stage during scenes. Creators Will Aronson and Hue Park were used screens and projectors during more technical scenes like flashbacks and turntable sequences. The music perfectly depicts the emotion, conveying both comedic and serious tones; it is a show to be experienced.

The musical takes place not too far into the future since artificial

intelligence (AI) has become increasingly popular and is maturing rapidly. The musical adds a

noted that there are up to seven new and improved models of the Helperbot. Oliver is a model three

few years of progression to the AI world where it has now become normalized to use “Helperbots.”

The Helperbots clean, cook and do your homework – it is even

By Vanessa Flanagan

STAFF WRITER

SPOILER WARNING

“Gladiator II” takes place 16 years after the first film. It follows Lucius, the son of Lucilla, played by Connie Nielsen, and Maximus, played by Russell Crowe. Lucius is played by Academy Award nominee Paul Mescal. Estranged from his family for over a decade, Lucius coincidentally ends up reconnecting with his mother after his home is attacked by the Roman Army. He is taken by the army to become a slave-turnedgladiator like his father, and quickly rises to greatness, also following in his father’s footsteps. The film is packed with welldone action sequences, effective gore and a compelling story as Lucius fights to restore the Roman Republic – a dream his father wished to carry out.

Despite being released 24 years later, the sequel lives up to the original. If you can look past the

Helperbot, and Claire is a model five Helperbot. Both models are seen as obsolete, however, that is not why their respective owners retired them. Revealed in Act 2, it

seems as though both Oliver and Claire’s owners had their personal, not superficial, reasons for retiring their beloved robots. Now the two Helperbots reside alone in retired living for other obsolete robots. Oliver seems content alone with his old records and monthly collection of jazz magazines. He lives waiting for his owner to come and pick him up, which he had promised Oliver he would. He waits for years until one day, there is an eager knock on his door. He reluctantly answers, and a concerned Claire barges through the door. She asks to borrow Oliver’s charger since she is almost out of battery and does not have a suitable charger for her model. A pure and unlikely friendship grows between the two Helperbots as they form a pact for Claire to use Oliver’s charger. Claire ultimately convinces Oliver to go find his owner instead of waiting around for him. They travel to the island Oliver’s owner lives on. Throughout their journey, it seems

‘Gladiator II’: I am, in fact, entertained

historical inaccuracies, it is an enjoyable movie. With a runtime of two hours and 28 minutes, it is easy to assume that the movie would lose the audience’s interest after a while. That is not the case here because, with the help of solid pacing, it was engaging throughout. While taking a break from the main plot, the use of fight scenes still made sense as they contributed to building the overall story. The intense scenes made for a more captivating

experience and helped keep the audience attracted.

However, the use of computergenerated imagery (CGI) was slightly overkill and only added to the historical inaccuracies. The gladiators had to fight a pack of rabid baboons, fend off sharks and outsmart a rhino. The baboons were dramatized and

that their relationship shifts from strictly friends to something more, something romantic. So, the question stands: Can a robot fall in love? Why wouldn’t it be possible? “Maybe Happy Ending” creatively and originally showcases the love story of two robots. The musical also leaves questions. Does technology have the capacity for qualia? Can a Helperbot experience emotion, know what it is feeling and express it? In Act 2, Oliver and Claire begin to realize they may not have as much time with one another as their mechanical parts begin to wither. They fear the thought of losing one another. Aronson and Park give human qualities to two very non-human entities. Humans feel love for one another and fear of losing one another, so why wouldn’t a robot? A heart and a hard drive are different, yes. However, is a hard drive better or worse at experiencing or knowing what love is?

clearly not real, but that is even more of a reason why they need to look real. It is also understandable that there could not be real sharks on set and practical effects could not be used around explosions, but again, a shark should look real. There was also a scene where numerous boats sail through the sea, but the water looks fake. If a decision is made to use CGI in a film, there should be no questioning whether the water visually looks real. While CGI can be useful in places where practical effects would greatly inconvenience the production, many scenes would have benefitted from using real-life sets over CGI.

Mescal, like Crowe who won best actor for “Gladiator,” truly shines in his role. His performance resembles Crowe’s even before it is confirmed that Lucius is the son of Maximus. It would not be surprising if there is another Oscar nomination in his

future. The physical casting of both Mescal and Pedro Pascal was perfect; they both look like they were born in that era and meant to be a part of the Roman Empire.

Joseph Quinn stands out as Emperor Geta. Pascal and Denzel Washington also gave notable performances, with Washington predicted to receive an Oscar nomination for his role.

The film concludes with Lucius becoming the Prince of Rome and continuing to fight for his grandfather and father’s dream of restoring the Roman Republic. Fans are split on their feelings regarding this sequel, saying it is a copy and paste of the first film, but there is no denying the incredible performances given by the cast. The director of both films, Scott Ridley, has already hinted at the possibility of a third “Gladiator” during the press tour and Mescal has also expressed interest in his return.

“Maybe Happy Ending” began previews on Broadway in October of 2024.

“Gladiator II” has a 72% on Rotten Tomatoes.

Photo courtesy of Variety

Photo courtesy of USA Today

The views and opinions expressed in the Opinion section are those of the authors. They are not an endorsement of the views of the Chronicle or its staff. The Chronicle does not discriminate based on the opinions of the authors.

Your professors need to cold call

By Craig Mannino

Picture this: it’s 9:40 a.m., you’re in class, your professor just asked a question and the room is silent. Your professor idly stands at the front of the room, waiting for someone to raise their hand and contribute, but it does not happen. Or maybe it does happen, but it’s the same student that answered the last four questions. Education is a strange place right now – nobody can agree on how to integrate artificial intelligence into the classroom, COVID-19 stunted students’ growth and students are as unwilling to participate as ever. These issues have disastrous effects on the classroom environment. So, what is the solution? Honestly, it’s cold calling.

Cold calling is when a professor calls on a student who has not volunteered to speak. Although it may feel stressful in the moment, cold calling can catalyze student growth in unique ways.

One of the benefits of cold

By Annie MacKeigan

Maybe “cramming” isn’t the best method to study, but it surely works well enough when you need it to. Most college students are juggling 15-17 credits, internships, jobs, clubs and a social life – sometimes studying time slips away. If one thing is true about college students, it’s that none of us feel like we know how to study properly. We’ve all heard of quick-fix studying hacks – such as chewing the same flavor of gum when studying as when you are taking a test or putting your notes through Google

Translate to hear them out loud – but be honest, have you ever tried those hacks?

The saving grace for our generation was Quizlet. The true

calling is that it widens the scope of class conversation. When a professor ensures all students participate, more voices are heard. This leads to more diverse opinions and to discussions becoming more impactful. Cold calling can even result in a more equitable classroom – especially for female students. In a study by the Education Resources Information Center (ERIC), researchers found that the proportion of female students who voluntarily participated in a high cold-calling classroom (82%) was 30% higher than their counterparts in a low cold-calling classroom (52%). When professors cold call, they guarantee not only that all students are heard, but also that those students are confident enough to share their perspectives even when not prompted to do so.

Cold calling can also help professors develop a deeper understanding of what their students know. In my experience, professors often receive strong participation from a

handful of students. They deduce that all students are doing well, and are ultimately surprised when these students fail a test. If that professor cold called, they would understand what every student knows rather than what only a few exceptional students know. Therefore, they could plan their lessons and their tests to best satisfy the needs of each student.

Furthermore, cold calling can lead professors to nurture a student’s potential they might not have acknowledged otherwise. A study of the effects of cold calling on German middle schoolers posited that teachers may perceive students who participate infrequently as “incompetent and anxious.” This assessment is unfair. Even on the milder end, where a professor may see a student as mediocre, it severely limits the potential of quiet students. In a classroom with cold calling, a professor has a more profound understanding of their student’s abilities so that no brilliant

student, whether they are quiet or loud, is left behind.

A common concern regarding cold calling is that it increases students’ anxiety. Since any student can be called on at any time, their nerves may spike. While this claim holds weight, most of that anxiety likely exists because professors fall short in their implementation of cold calling. Primarily, a professor may incorrectly integrate the strategy into their lessons and it can be seen as a punishment. For example, cold calling in bad faith is an easy way to catch a student who is not paying attention, who has not done the reading or who does not know the answer.

If professors work to properly use cold calling, students’ anxiety drastically decreases. The study regarding German middle schoolers supports this. It found that if professors frame cold calling as an invitation to collaborative thinking, it builds trust and engagement between the teacher and the student.

Cramming works

heroes were your classmates that created a Quizlet straight from the class notes. Unfortunately, starting in Aug. 2022, Quizlet began requiring a subscription, and again, students quickly scrambled at the threat of a Quizlet-less test. We’ve all been there: it’s Sunday night at 11 p.m., your midterm is at 9:40 a.m. Monday morning whether you’re prepared or not. Your professor’s voice echoes in the back of your head as seven to eight weeks of information merges into nonsensical phrases. Your notebook is half-full, a reminder to go back to the lecture slides to finish writing your notes, but of course, life got in the way. At this point, you begin to convince yourself that a good night’s rest is more crucial to your success than

last-minute studying – but this is where cramming thrives.

If you’ve been attending class and doing your homework, the knowledge is in your head somewhere. Cramming serves as a refresher of all the information that has already been filed away. In fact, cramming is contingent on you generally paying attention and investing in your classes. Sure, cramming is only a method for short-term memory retention, but if the class in question is related to your major, I have a hard time believing that you’ll never transfer that knowledge to long-term memory.

When completing a degree program, you continually build on foundational knowledge to prepare you for a career where you will use that same knowledge daily. This repetition will

These findings are expanded upon in a different study of undergraduate students in a chemistry lab. In short, when teachers paired cold calling with other teaching strategies, the student’s overall anxiety decreased. Thus, cold calling’s weaknesses are remedied when professors put in the work to integrate it into the classroom.

Cold calling is a phenomenal teaching strategy that could solve many problems plaguing education today. Although it may seem intimidating, when professors integrate the strategy in good faith, it can have massive benefits for students and faculty alike. If you are not convinced, I encourage you to acknowledge that “I don’t know” is an acceptable answer and to realize that when pushed to participate, you may discover that you know more than you think.

Craig Mannino is a junior English and writing studies double major. You can find him @craigmaninno.stubstack.com

not allow for anything to slip through the cracks. In no way is cramming a supplement to education, but it will at least get you good grades.

Cramming can take many forms. I have found speed reading my class notes and lecture slides to be really helpful in the minutes before a test. In some cases, you’ll get so lucky that one of the test questions may be word-for-word what was written on those slides. This works for all types of test questions: multiple choice, short answer and essay. If you have an essay question that you’re not confident in and you re-read the lecture slides, use the bullet points to outline your essay. You’ll be able to fill in the rest with your general understanding of the class material. If you are not so lucky with

the format of your test, don’t worry too much. The information you crammed is fresh in your mind and will be applicable to any format of test. Instead of seeing a semester’sworth of information jumbled on the page, certain words will stand out; the lightbulb will go off, and you will be able to form connections between words, ideas and case studies. So, as finals season comes upon us and you’ve found yourself delaying studying to the last minute, consider cramming as a last-ditch effort. At least in the end, you won’t be able to say you didn’t give it your best effort.

Annie MacKeigan is a senior journalism major and economics minor. You can find her on Instagram @mackeiganreport_

OPINION

The views and opinions expressed in the Opinion section are those of the authors. They are not an endorsement of the views of the Chronicle or its staff. The Chronicle does not discriminate based on the opinions of the authors.

12/9/24, 9:05

Chron Crossword

Across

6. Politician who was once nicknamed “America’s mayor”

8. 1994 rock song written about the Troubles of Northern Ireland

11. Hofstra’s northernmost residential tower

12. Homemade liquor made popular during Prohibition

13. Name of both an NFL team and an MLB team

14. Country music supergroup composed of Willie Nelson, Kris Kristofferson, Johnny Cash and Waylon Jennings

15. Norwegian word for a long, narrow body of water between high cliffs

1. Jamaican Creole dialect

16. Person who relays divine prophecies Down

2. Painter of the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel

3. Process of preserving a deceased animal’s body by stuffing it

4. Italian pasta dish traditionally made with guanciale

5. Villain of the 1988 film “Die Hard”

7. The largest city in Wyoming

9. Synonym for abundance

10. In “How I Met Your Mother,” Ted, Lily and Marshall attended this university

Graphic by Ryan Monke / The Hofstra Chronicle

The views and opinions expressed in the Opinion section are those of the authors. They are not an endorsement of the views of the Chronicle or its staff. The Chronicle does not discriminate based on the opinions of the authors.

President Poser’s anti-Palestinian rhetoric at Town Hall

By Giovanni Salsa

One of the most heinous things to tell a Palestinian is that they lack an “internationally recognized sovereign state.” This common yet inaccurate statement has long been used to erase and dehumanize the Palestinian identity.

At the Hofstra University Town Hall on Nov. 18, President Susan Poser was asked by a Palestinian student about the possibility of hanging the Palestinian flag among the flags of other nations that are hung in the Sondra and David S. Mack Student Center.

The question was asked in hopes of representing Palestinian students enrolled at Hofstra by inquiring about the process of getting a flag hung in the student center. Instead of an informed and cooperative response, Poser said, “I believe our policy on that is that it is

By Vanessa Flanagan

Everything about attending a concert is a money-grabbing scam. Recently, I tried to buy tickets to see Sabrina Carpenter perform at Madison Square Garden and Barclays Center. The ticket prices were out of control, ranging from $850 to $5,000 for just one ticket. Usually, ticket prices go down the day of the show because resellers do not want to lose their money, so I waited, thinking I would get lucky – I did not. Prices never dropped below $800, and unless I was getting a song dedicated to me, I was not paying that.

One of the biggest reasons concerts have become so expensive is scalpers. Scalpers buy and resell tickets for large profits, negatively impacting everyone’s experience purchasing tickets. I, as well as many other frequent concertgoers,

from recognized sovereign countries, and that’s why it’s not there.”

When the student corrected her saying that Palestine is indeed recognized, Poser doubled down on her statement and repeated, “Well it’s not internationally recognized as a sovereign country.”

Currently, 146 of the 193 countries represented in the United Nations recognize a Palestinian state, with the most recent official recognition coming from Armenia on June 21 of this year. With such widespread recognition, Palestine is, in fact, internationally recognized as a sovereign country.

Not only does President Poser perpetuate an anti-Palestinian sentiment, but she also fails to accurately describe the process of hanging flags in the student center. The process comes from the Office of International Student Affairs and involves using

an I-20 form. This is a government document that certifies a student can legally study in the United States with nonimmigrant status and is financially capable to stay during this duration. This form is also used to gauge what countries international students at Hofstra come from.

This is where the problem stems. The United States does not recognize Palestine as a sovereign country, so the form naturally fails to accurately acknowledge a Palestinian student’s place of origin.

Had President Poser simply said that Hofstra only raises the flags of countries recognized by the United States, that would have been a different story. Instead, she chose to confidently announce a damaging lie to the entire Town Hall that Palestine was not recognized internationally.

My concern with this is that

President Poser perpetuated false and dangerous rhetoric against Palestinians to the broader Hofstra community. A lot of misinformation surrounding the Palestinian identity already exists. We as Palestinians face consistent dehumanization, especially when our efforts to make our voices heard are shut down, dismissed and deflected. Despite being told that her comments at the Town Hall were deeply insulting to Palestinians, Poser has yet to issue an apology or show accountability for her false statements.

Regardless of the process behind hanging these flags, they represent the Hofstra student body and its diverse members. A plaque in the student center states, “Above you, among the Hofstra Class banners, hang the international flags representing all the countries of origin that make up our vibrant student body. The flags are hung in

The greedy concertgoing experience

believe that more should be done to prevent scalpers from selling tickets for such ridiculous prices.

Buying tickets, however, is not even half of the scam that attending concerts has become. When purchasing general admission – pit tickets – for a concert, your spot on the floor is on a first come, first serve basis. Arriving at the event on time is a rookie mistake because you will most likely be met with campers who have already taken the best spots. The amount of people who camp outside the venue for multiple days to get a closer spot is ridiculous. People with the opportunity to take off work and stay overnight are entitled to a vastly better concert experience than someone who paid the same price.

Even though you most likely paid hundreds of dollars to be close to the artist, you probably will not even be getting your

money’s worth. Occasionally, venues will offer VIP tickets to people who want guaranteed closer seats. Fans who want this upgrade are forced to spend even more money, even though the regular ticket was already expensive.

The battle does not end there. Upon entering the venue, the merchandise stand is staring you in the face. It seems like nearly everyone at the show has a piece of merch over their outfit that is already intricate and dedicated to the show. Artists like Harry Styles and Taylor Swift have fans that go all out for outfits, accessorizing with glitter and feather boas. Some people are under the impression that if you don’t own any merch or get super dressed up, you aren’t a “real fan” of the artist. This makes it almost impossible not to purchase the shockingly and unnecessarily expensive merch at the show. According to

a randomized order and are updated as appropriate by the Office of International Student Affairs.”

The flags hanging in the student center convey a sense of unity and belonging to the wider community. When I first toured this school, the first thing I looked for when I walked in was the Palestinian flag. My expectations were low, and when I couldn’t find it, I decided I was going to make an effort to get it up there. My goal since the very start of my Hofstra journey has been to be a voice for my Palestinian brothers and sisters, and I will keep fighting for representation and the acknowledgement of our struggle.

Giovanni Salsa is a senior history major and creative writing minor. You can find him on Instagram @gios_555

Carpenter’s tour info on X, the average price of a t-shirt is $50 and the hoodie is $85. When setting merch prices, artists’ management teams know that some fans cannot leave without a physical memory of the show in their hands. They take advantage of the intense emotions felt during concerts, knowing the logical thinking process will be clouded. Although a profit would still be made with lower prices, there will always be unnecessary price gouging. Don’t get me started if you want food or beverages during the show. The cost of water alone is so high you’ll nearly have to take out a small loan. I understand why you aren’t allowed to bring any outside food or drink into the venue, but I do not understand why a bottle of water at UBS Arena costs roughly $8. There has been a recent increase in the number of fans passing out at concerts due

to heat exhaustion and dehydration, yet water is a luxury at these venues. Everything else at concerts is so overpriced already, it wouldn’t hurt to knock a couple of bucks off the most important necessity of life.

My point is, make concerts fun and affordable again! Of course, the experience you get during the show is priceless, and at the end of the day, money comes and goes, but memories are forever. Tickets and merchandise still need to be less expensive, and the issues of scalpers and campers need to be dealt with so all music fans can have a positive experience.

Vanessa Flanagan is a freshman journalism major. You can find her on Instagram @vanessaa.flanagan

SPORTS

Pride shatters records in victory over Saint Joseph’s

By Eric Leaf STAFF WRITER

The Hofstra University men’s basketball team delivered a masterclass of dominance in their Friday, Dec. 6, matchup against Saint Joseph’s University, New York - Long Island, securing a historic 11446 victory. The win marked the largest margin in program history which was a staggering 68-point win showcasing the Pride’s dangerous offensive depth. Hofstra’s win was just

four points shy of a program record.

The Pride’s victory was driven by an extraordinary performance from sophomore guard KiJan Robinson, who had a career-high afternoon while coming off the bench. Robinson came out firing, surpassing his previous career high, finishing with a new high of 28 points, leading the charge for Hofstra. Robinson also shattered his old career high for 3-pointers made, hitting an incredible eight out of nine from beyond the arc. His shooting was just short of perfection, shooting 83% from the field.

“[Robinson] played outstanding, he’s a really great player,” said Hofstra head coach Speedy Claxton. “He was due for a game like this; I’m so happy he had it.”

Robinson’s all-around game was equally impressive. In addition to his scoring flurry,

he set a career high in assists, dishing out seven dimes. It was a performance that highlighted both his scoring and playmaking abilities.

“I was really just taking what the defense was giving me; pretty much my whole career, I’ve had times where I passed up shots,” Robinson said. “I think I’m just more mentally prepared; I’ve been putting in a lot of work behind the scenes. I do admit last year I would be kind of nervous and antsy, versus this year, I’m letting the game flow.”

The Pride showcased exceptional depth this season, arguably the best in Claxton’s tenure. That depth was on full display Friday afternoon. Five players came off the bench to score in double digits. Eric Parnell followed Robinson with 19 points, Khalil Farmer with 16 and Joshua DeCady with 12, all career highs. German

Plotnikov also added a seasonhigh 12 points. Plotnikov has been building up to his typical workload after having an offseason shoulder surgery, and hit his season high in points, shots made, assists, blocks and steals.

Remarkably, none of the Pride’s starters reached double figures, with every key contributor coming from the bench, proving the team’s depth as a major strength.

“We’re deep, we know that

we have multiple guys coming into this game having big nights,” Claxton said. “Tonight was evident of that.”

The Pride’s defense was also on full display, shutting the Golden Eagles’ offense down from tip-off. The Golden Eagles shot a woeful 25% from the field, turning the ball over a staggering 14 times. Hofstra took full advantage of this, scoring 24 points from turnovers alone.

Mosher places eighth at Cliff Keen Las Vegas Invitational

By Olivia Hillestad SPORTS EDITOR

After two days of tough competition, Kyle Mosher of the Hofstra University wrestling team placed eighth at 165 pounds at the Cliff Keen Las Vegas Invitational on Saturday, Dec. 7. Mosher was the only member of the Pride to make it to the second day of competition and the first Hofstra wrestler to place at the tournament since 2014.

Mosher’s win over No. 17 Maxx Mayfield of Northwestern University propelled him into

the consolation round of eight #2 where a medical forfeit from No. 8 M.J. Gaitan of Iowa State University guaranteed Mosher a place on the podium.

In the match, Mayfield earned the first takedown with Mosher finding the escape quickly after. In the second period, Mosher started on bottom and fought for another escape to close the gap. Mosher earned a point from Mayfield’s stalling in the third period to move the match into sudden victory overtime. Mayfield got in on Mosher’s legs and appeared to expose

his back but with some smart wrestling, Mosher worked through the position to come out on top to earn the takedown.

Earlier in the day, Mosher started the tournament with a testing rematch against Ohio State University’s No. 7 Sammy Sasso. The two wrestled on Nov. 24, when the Pride took on the Buckeyes. Then, Sasso won by major decision 14-4, but Mosher narrowed the gap with an 8-3 loss in Las Vegas, Nevada.

In the consolation bracket, Mosher had two close matches to keep himself in the competition. He beat Cooper Voorhees of the University of Wyoming 11-7 with three takedowns in the match and followed it up with his win over Mayfield.

During day two, Mosher lost to South Dakota State University’s No. 25 Drake Rhodes 5-3 in another close match. Mosher earned the first takedown but reversals in the first and second periods, plus a riding time point, put Rhodes ahead. In the seventh place match, Mosher took on University of Michigan’s No.

12 Brock Mantanona. Mosher almost caught Mantanona on his back but in a scramble on the mat, Mantanona came out on top, pinning Mosher close to the three minute mark.

Four other members of the Pride earned wins on the first day. At 133 pounds, Chase Liardi lost in the round of 32, before beating Santino Sanchez of California State University Bakersfield 7-3, eventually falling in the next round. Noah Tapia won his match at 149 pounds in the consolation round of 16 #1 over Nick Vafiadis of the United States Naval Academy 8-1.

Two wrestlers fought for wins in the round of 32 – at 157 pounds Jurius Clark earned a win by fall at the four minute mark over Sasha Gavronsky of West Virginia University. No. 29 Ross McFarland secured a win by major decision 18-7 over Appalachian State University’s Logan Eller at 184 pounds, before falling in the next two rounds.

The Pride have the next week off before returning to New York on Saturday, Dec. 21, for another three-day dual meet against Columbia University, Nassau Community College and Morgan State University.

The win was the Pride’s 11th consecutive home victory.

Ethan Albin / The Hofstra Chronicle

Hofstra earned 11 points as a team and tied for 24th-place in the 30team field.

Ethan Albin / The Hofstra Chronicle

Kyle Mosher is 6-6 on the season.

Ethan Albin / The Hofstra Chronicle

Season retrospective: Changes and challenges

By Ethan Poole

ASSISTANT SPORTS EDITOR

The Hofstra University women’s soccer team put forth another solid campaign, although it did not reach the high standards that head coach Simon Riddiough set during his Hofstra tenure.

The Pride finished their season at 8-5-6 with a 5-3-2 conference mark. Their six ties this year broke a program record, with the previous top mark being four. Four of these ties came in the Pride’s first five matches in their non-conference slate.

Despite draws against Ivy League opponents, Columbia University and Brown University, to go along with Loyola University Maryland and Quinnipiac University, the early season moment that defined the team was Olivia Pearse’s season-ending injury.

The star senior was a tenacious weapon for the Pride in her first three seasons, but only played in three games before she went down.

Without Pearse, Hofstra’s offense struggled, especially

early on. The Pride only cracked three goals in a match two times this season.

Two players who scored for Hofstra in the early goings were Mathilde Braithwaite and Ellie Gough, who made the All-Coastal Athletic Conference (CAA) third team.

Gough, a graduate student midfielder who transferred from Middle Tennessee State University, brought life to the team whenever she was on the pitch. Her five goals tied for second on the team this year.

Many of Gough’s scoring chances were created by the relentless pressure she applied to opposing goalkeepers and defenders. Gough made many mistakes with her forechecking ability and found the net often because of it.

Braithwaite, the speedy senior forward from Esbjerg, Denmark, added five goals as well. Early on in the season, Riddiough made it clear that he believed she could have an incredible offensive season.

“She’s lightning fast, she’s a tremendous athlete, and when you couple that with her ability

to recognize space, she’s unbelievable,” Riddiough said.

Braithwaite not only used her speed to dominate the field, but she also had some spectacular finishes from long range, specifically a gorgeous goal in Hofstra’s 3-1 win against Towson University. Braithwaite’s five goals smashed her prior career high of two in a season.

Later on, as the scoring dried up for Braithwaite and Gough, the sleeping giant of Millie Davies woke up. While the All-CAA junior was playing well, she only had two goals after 12 matches and was fighting through an injury.

Down the final stretch of the season though, Davies exploded. Scoring 12 points in her final six games including five goals in her last four, the biggest goal of her Hofstra career came in the first-round playoff match against the University of Delaware, an overtime tally which gave the Pride a 1-0 victory.

In the net, the Pride was led by Synne Danielsen, a freshman from Kopervik, Norway, and Mackenzie Sullivan, a

senior from Peoria, Arizona.

Despite Sullivan having more prior experience and starting most of Hofstra’s early games, Danielsen eventually earned the full-time position in goal.

The freshman proved herself as the netminder of the future, with a solid .717 save percentage and two shutouts.

Defensively, the Pride was solid as always. The duo of Gabriella Marte and Louise Hayden excelled in their swan songs, making the All-CAA third team and leading a defense that allowed just 1.16 goals per game.

Freshman defender Emma Johnson also made an impact, finding her way into the starting lineup by the end of the year and scoring her first collegiate goal along the way.

After an up-and-down regular season which saw Hofstra earn the fourth seed, the Pride made the semifinals of the CAA Championship for the eighth year in a row. However, Hofstra’s season ended at the hands of Monmouth University for the second straight year. The Pride’s comeback attempt

fell short, ending their season with a 4-2 loss.

Next year will see plenty of change for the Pride: Braithwaite, Marte, Sullivan, Gough, Hayden, Pearse and Matilda Liljefors are all graduating. With a lot of minutes that need to be accounted for next season, it’s unclear how much of that will be filled by current players and how much will be from transfers or incoming freshmen.

Despite the occasional offensive struggles and falling short of a title, Hofstra put together another solid season.

By Ethan Albin

OPINION EDITOR

Ross McFarland doesn’t stop moving. In the Hofstra University wrestling room, the graduate student is constantly mobile. He doesn’t look tired or gassed from training; no, he looks fresh all the time and sticks out like a sore thumb in a room filled with panting and heaving. McFarland has started this season on a tear, winning seven out of his first 10 matches. Undefeated through dual meets, he leads the team in wins. He attributes this partly from switching his weight class from 174 pounds to 184 pounds.

“Now that I’ve gone up a weight, they’re all bigger guys, so they are just naturally slower,” McFarland said. “From the matches I have wrestled so far, I’m just so much faster than the guys. I’ll be in and have them on their butt before they even realize, honestly, and I love that feeling.”

Hofstra first-year head coach Jamie Franco, who served on the coaching staff from 2016 to 2023 as an assistant, attributes much of the success to a change in overall approach towards the sport. The switch had allowed McFarland to focus on what is most important.

“I think his main focus now is how he gets better every day wrestling and a lot less focus on just going through the motions to get his weight down,” Franco said. “He’s always been one of the hardest workers on the team. I think we’ve seen a big difference there, where his energy levels never sacrifice now, which is awesome.”

SPORTS

Ross McFarland: Moving up

With the move to a more natural weight, McFarland can prioritize his skillset in practice over his weight management, which has shown volumes in his matches.

“Technique and quickness are so much more important,” McFarland said. “You can take a guy down four times and he doesn’t even know he’s being taken down, and that is what’s happened in a lot of matches.”

McFarland redshirted his first season, wrestling unattached and putting together a 4-3 record at 165 pounds. The next four seasons he wrestled at 174 pounds as the starter for a combined 34-30 record. Despite going 12-8 last season, McFarland saw his fair share of struggles at 174 pounds.

associate head coach Ernest James taking the helm. He saw McFarland struggle with his weight firsthand and urged McFarland to move up.

“When [Franco] was our interim head coach, he said I should go up to [184 pounds] and I told him I’d been thinking about it for years,” McFarland said. “Instead of prioritizing running and cardio, I was prioritizing lifting more this summer. I did get bigger; I gained about 15 pounds of solid muscle. Now that I’ve got down to a normal weight, I’m feeling good.”

As the current head coach, Franco feels similarly on the matter, believing McFarland operates better at this weight because nothing is lingering

favorite thing is the ice bath. I ice bath every day. I love it, we had a mandatory ice bath on day one. We’re gonna have more of it in the future, and it’s great for our bodies.”

McFarland’s success also comes from his mindset around

“I’m going to go out there and take you down first. I’m going to escape, and nobody can stop me.”

“I’m 6 [foot] 1 [inch], I have a big frame [and] we always knew I could fill out and be an 184-pounder,” McFarland said. “It’s been in the works for years. This past year, [there were] two dual meets where I stepped off the scale and I was very very sick; I couldn’t hold any food or drinks down. It ended up being that the weight cut was too hard for me.”

The departure of former head coach Dennis Papadatos led to

over him.

“He’s able to operate at full speed all week,” Franco said. “Where in the past, I’ve seen him come in and he’s just 10 [pounds] over or 12 [pounds] over, and the weight is just bearing over him every day. The main focus is ‘How do I get down the weight’ instead of ‘How am I gonna get better at wrestling and get ready for this match?’”

While wrestling at a more natural weight has helped in the training process, McFarland also gives props to his dedication to recovery. He goes as far as to deem himself an “ice bath addict,” as he’s fallen in love with the process, partly because of Franco.

“I feel like in the new age of wrestling there is a big emphasis on recovery,” McFarland said. “As much as hard work, it’s like 50/50. [Franco] does a great job at busting our butts in the wrestling room and then you have to prioritize recovery. My

practice. It has molded how he trains, which in turn has paid dividends on the mat. He recognizes that between cutting weight and training there is a unique mental battle needed to achieve greatness in the sport.

“It’s very hard,” McFarland said. “I swear being a wrestler is 90% mental, 10% physical. I have to wake up at 6 a.m. … sitting on the wall 10 minutes before practice, [and] knowing I’m going to have to kill myself for the next hour and a half is the mental side of it. Like knowing you have something hard in front of you but taking the path of most resistance.”

As a team captain, McFarland has seen the younger guys on the team spare their efforts in practice. He always preaches to them that taking the right path is the key to greatness.

“People always try to take the least resistance, cut corners and stuff,” McFarland said.

“‘Ross McFarland goes the long way.’ Once you believe that, it becomes easy and that’s how I

learned and it’s become easier for me, even though it’s hard every day, it’s an easy decision. [If] I’m taking the hard choice and doing that 365 days a year, it becomes an easy choice. So, the hard work doesn’t even mean anything to me anymore. I know I’m going to do it, and I know I’m going to choose to do it.”

McFarland’s mindset has been ever present in his final season, as his wins so far have come in dominant fashion. He recently defeated Ohio State University’s Gavin Bell, who was ranked No. 29 in the nation at the time. To most, beating a nationally ranked wrestler would be a huge accomplishment, but McFarland’s perspective on rankings differs from the norm.

“When it comes to matches and wrestling guys, I actually don’t [care] if they are ranked [or] if they’re number one in the country,” McFarland said. “You know they go to bed with a pillow like I do; they have two legs like I do. I’m going to give it to whoever.”

With this season being his last, McFarland is dialed in on beating his competition, giving it all in his last dance.

“I might not ever get that feeling of competition again after this year,” McFarland said. “It’s scary to know that this could be my last chance at competition in the sport that changed me. So, I want to wrestle [in] as many matches as I can, and I want to punch people in the face immediately and just show what I’ve known I’ve always been capable of. I’m going to go out there and take you down first. I’m going to escape, and nobody can stop me.”

Ethan Albin / The Hofstra Chronicle

Ross McFarland is 7-3 for the season.

Ethan Albin / The Hofstra Chronicle

By Nick Mongiovi STAFF WRITER

“I was thinking about quitting basketball.”

It was a thought that crossed the mind of Hofstra University men’s basketball sophomore guard Jean Aranguren when he was 15-years-old after his father passed away.

Aranguren was attending high school on Long Island, thousands of miles away from his native country of Venezuela. His mom and sister were back home by themselves and Aranguren had nobody else, so the doubts seeped in. Multiple conversations with his mother convinced him to continue playing the sport he loved.

“She told me, ‘Listen, this was your dad’s dream, for you to follow your dreams,’” Aranguren said. “‘Please continue playing basketball and continuing to do your best. Just remember that whatever you do, it’s for him.’ That helped me a lot mentally and spiritually to continue playing basketball.”

The Venezuelan native powered through adversity and started playing for his father.

“Before every game, I have my little praying moment,” Aranguren said. “I pray to God and ask God to remind my dad that I’m doing this for him. I’m grateful for everything that he’s done for me, and I ask for him to look out for me.”

Aranguren moved to Long Island alone when he was 15 to play basketball on a scholarship, but his love for basketball started long before he got to Long Island.

Jean Aranguren: Chasing dreams

“I grew up in a little hood in Valencia,” Aranguren said. “The street that I lived on had my entire family. So, I grew up with all my cousins, aunts [and] grandparents. I got to play basketball on this little hoop on the street, so everybody used to come outside and play there. That’s when I started falling in love with basketball.”

Like most athletes, Aranguren had a role model growing up.

“I started picking up basketball when I was 5 years old,” Aranguren said. “The reason for this was because of my sister. She started playing before me and I used to love being around my sister. I asked my mom if I could please play basketball with my sister and once, she said yes.”

Aranguren and his sister

Aranguren had just completed his freshman year at Iona University and decided to enter the transfer portal. His desire to play basketball at a higher level drew him to Hofstra.

“Before entering, I was doubting if I should even put my name in the transfer portal because of the stories I heard; once you put your name in the transfer portal, you can’t come back,” Aranguren said. “Gratefully, it was not that hard for me. As soon as I put my name in the transfer portal, I got a phone call from [Hofstra assistant] coach Mike DePaoli, and that was it.”

Hofstra head coach Speedy Claxton felt a sense of urgency to land Aranguren when he saw his name.

“We recruited him out of high

his caliber, you can put him in a good position to deliver and it makes my job a lot easier,” Claxton said.

One thing this team mentioned before the season was their comradery on and off the court, as well as feeling like

“She told me, ‘Listen this was your dad’s dream, for you to follow your dreams.”

created many memories together growing up, but one in particular stood out for him when he was just 8 years old.

“I would say my favorite memory is when we won our first championship together,” Aranguren said. “I was so happy.”

Fast forward to the 2024 college basketball offseason.

school,” Claxton said. “When he went to Iona, we played against him and he had a really good game against us and then had a good year. When he went into the transfer portal, we already had a prior relationship with him, so we went after him.”

Aranguren was exactly the type of player that Hofstra was looking for and Claxton fell in love with a specific part of his game when he saw him play for the first time.

“I thought he was a tough guard and physically gifted,” Claxton said. “I liked the way he approached the game. He played extremely hard, that’s what I liked about him the most.”

Through the first 10 games of the 2024-2025 season, Aranguren is averaging 13.4 points, 5.0 rebounds, 3.9 assists and 1.3 steals per game. He’s helped the Pride get out of the gates quickly to a 8-3 record.

“When you have a player of

a family. Aranguren fit right in with his teammates as soon as he came back to the island.

“Everybody loves him,” Claxton said. “When Michael [Graham] made that lastsecond shot [on an assist from Aranguren against Arkansas State University on Sunday, Dec. 1], everybody gave him praise and this team is just well connected.”

There was more that went into the decision to join the Pride than just playing at a higher level.

“First of all, I told them I wanted a program with great player development and a great culture,” Aranguren said. “Just look at the guards from Hofstra. They’re all tough, their player development is great and they focus on each and every player. You could see their [statistics] from before they transferred to Hofstra to when they played for them, and you could see the difference. Since I went to high school [on] Long Island, I was

more familiar with the team in the area. The conference was better and they had a better schedule, so I was loving it.”

The transfer portal has changed college sports. Players that enter must come to terms with potentially never playing their sport again. Luckily for Aranguren, he once again found a home on Long Island.

“I love my teammates, they’re really great people on and off the court,” Aranguren said. “I really feel like I’m at home plus I knew half of them; Silas [Sunday], I played against him in high school. Cruz [Davis] went to Iona, TJ [Gadsden] I played against him because he was in the [Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference] with me. I played against Carlos [Lopez] when he was at St. Francis [University] and we used to talk a little bit.”

Two Hofstra greats, Aaron Estrada and Tyler Thomas, even influenced his decision to join the Pride.

“They showed me their development and how hard they worked,” Aranguren said. “So, seeing it and seeing somebody do it made me feel very good because I felt like I was also capable of doing it.”

The Pride’s 2024-2025 campaign is just getting started, but they have their goals set high on the ultimate achievement.

“The team goal is to win the [Coastal Athletic Association] championship and go to the NCAA Tournament,” Aranguren said. “The personal goal is to win CAA Player of the Year”

The Iona transfer has started every game for the Pride..

Jean Aranguren averages 12.8 points per game, second on the team.

Ethan Albin / The Hofstra Chronicle

Amelia Bashy / The Hofstra Chronicle

SPORTS

Chloe Sterling: Dribbling across the globe

By Michelle Rabinovich STAFF WRITER

Chloe Sterling, a transfer junior who played her first two collegiate seasons at James Madison University, has taken the Hofstra University women’s basketball team’s starting point guard role and excelled in every way. Sterling is averaging 16.5 points, 4.3 assists, 5.5 rebounds and 1.8 steals per game. Oftentimes, transfers take a few weeks to get going in their new surroundings, however, Sterling’s move from Harrisburg, Virginia, to Hempstead, New York, is far from the first time her life has been uprooted.

Even though Sterling originally is from Atlanta, Georgia, her formative years were spent outside of the United States. When she was about seven years old, she and her family packed up their bags and lived on U.S. Army Camp Zama, about an hour southwest of Tokyo, Japan, for nearly a decade.

While she was 14 hours ahead of home, she wasn’t the only one in a strange, new place, as many other military families were in the same boat. It showed Sterling not only that she was far from alone, but that she was part of an incredible melting pot of cultures. Sterling grew up with people from all over the world while in Japan, and it gave her the ability to assimilate herself with other people very easily.

“We all had parents that were in the military, but everybody was different; it was so diverse you had to learn how to talk to people, learn about people’s

people who believe in me and my skill,” Sterling said. “Just somewhere I could come, play free, get better, make the people around me better and excel –and have fun, that was a huge part, have fun with the game.”

She looks back on her recruitment trip and the moment her teammates all greeted her with hugs during first introductions, realizing her teammates are meant to be her people, too.

cultures and adapt to the people in the place that you’re at,” she said.

Sterling picked up the game from her dad and brother and continued it in Tokyo with the

“The genuine connection [stands out] with the people here,” she said. “When I came on a visit here there was no sugar coating with the team. It really came down to the people; the culture here is amazing. We’re not scared to

Hempstead might not have home cooked meals and Zaxby’s, but that hasn’t stopped her from making a home with her teammates at Hofstra.

“I’m a natural when it comes to wanting everybody to feel like they have a place,” she said. “I know what it feels like to be left out, because things happen during the season, so I would just say that making sure that everybody in my team is good, because I’m always gonna care about the person before anything else.”

In her short time here, she has realized that she has to be a leader as well as the team’s point guard.

“I would describe it as a leadership role where I have to

consistent and lead by example in whatever capacity that is. –competitiveness, motor, energy, whatever.”

Earlier in the season, guard Emma Von Essen pointedly described the junior point guard as “shifty,” and Sterling agreed. In reality, Sterling’s creativity and basketball intelligence is what makes her an asset to the Pride and any other team she plays on

“One of the big things that I learned growing up [was how] my dad was very serious about the ball handling,” she said. “Being in the gym with my brother, just doing new and crazy things to try to get past him, get past other people,–that was fun. That’s creativity with the ball and that’s what makes the game fun. [Having] a creative mind and being open to displaying that.”

“I’m a natural when it comes to wanting everybody to feel like they have a place ... I’m always going to care about the person before anything else.”

friends she made along the way. She still draws on the lessons that both her family and friends, as well as the game itself, taught her.

“It was a great experience for me, growing up with basketball, sometimes being the only girl on the army base who wanted to play the game, I would have to go and play with the boys,” Sterling said.

“They were getting a little more athletic, and over time, they got taller than me, so I had to learn different ways of scoring to stay competitive around them.”

Walking through the recruitment process again in late spring/early summer this year, Sterling knew what she was on the lookout for.

“I was kind of looking to come to a program where I could progress with the way I play and just get better skillwise and be surrounded by

take accountability and make sure you hold everybody else accountable. I feel like it’s amazing that there’s more than half of the team that’s talking. I think it’s amazing that a freshman, new to the program, is talking.”

The adjustment here was softened by the Pride’s five returners, who have been incredibly welcoming by giving insider tips on how much earlier to show up before practice to offering a car ride every now and then. Sterling has grown particularly close with center Zyheima Swint, highlighting how much she values their shared banter.

Sterling explained that she appreciated being able to mesh her competitive spirit with her ability to bring her smiles, laughs and self-proclaimed “goofy energy” to the floor. She explained it as fun-spirited but serious.

set by example,” Sterling said. “I do come from a program where we’ve won a conference championship, and I come from experience with winning and what that environment is about and how to do that as a point guard, so just bringing that leadership and that chip on my shoulder where I have to stay

Sterling can be trusted to have tricks up her sleeve at any given time, brewing with ideas about how to swerve the next defender she matches up with: “When you see it, you’re gonna know.”

The next time you will see Sterling in action is when the Hofstra Pride host St. John’s University on Wednesday, Dec. 11. Tipoff is set for 6 p.m.

Photo courtesy of Hofstra Athletics / Jordan Perez

Chloe Sterling leads the Pride with 14 steals

Chloe Sterling averages 16.5 points per game to lead the Pride

Photo courtesy of Hofstra Athletics / Jordan Perez

December 10, 2024

LUCK OF THE DRAW

Kyle Mosher is the first Hofstra wrestler to place at the Cliff Keen Las Vegas Invitational since 2014