When Josh Elkotiwz imagined starting school at Miami University, he did not envision online classes and
studying engineering management with a specialty in manufacturing, started classes at Miami during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. For him, Miami was only as big as President’s Hall (now Marcum Hall).
SEAN WIESEMANN THE MIAMI STUDENT
The fall semester is here, which means it is nearly time for another year of excitement at Miami Univer-
With a combination of old faces and new, including four new head coaches, this is an athletic department that is trending in the right direction.
The importance of the Battle for -
a University of Cincinnati Bearcat squad with 47 new players on their roster, including former Indiana University Hoosier quarterback Brendan an improbable 31-24 overtime victory in the 2023 edition of this series, this series since 2002-03. Additionally, this year’s game will be played at Yager Stadium for the
mester, he has some advice for the next generation of Miami graduates.
“For me, the hardest thing when I came to Miami was getting out of the dorms and doing things other than school,” Elkowitz said. “It was hard
because of COVID, but in general, it is something people need to focus be good friends with your roommate, but if that doesn’t work out, then you must go outside of your comfort zone.”
year marketing major, will start atcumstances. While she won’t have to worry about quarantine or virtual classes, she said she’s still concerned about college life.
“The thing I am the most nervous about when I get to Miami is meeting new people and adapting to this new way of life,” Adams said. “I’m moving into a dorm that will be a very I am used to; learning to live with a roommate in a small space is my main concern right now.”
To combat this, Lielyn Mercer, a senior chemical engineering major, recommends staying as friendly as possible with your roommate.
“Even if you aren’t the best of friends, you have to live together,” Mercer said. “Even if it gets hard, just don’t make things weird.”
Another bit of advice Elkotiwz gave was how to structure the academic day, because that was one of his main struggles when arriving at Miami.
“College is a big change from high school,” Elkowitz said. “In high school, everything is laid out for you. You must be there by this time and do this and that. There is more free time in college. You have to be on your own schedule.”
Similarly, Adams’ biggest concern relates to managing her time and schedule.
“I’m worried about procrastinating and getting my work done,” Adams said. “I want to use my free time productively instead of staying on my phone or swiping on TikTok.” From a seasoned professional, Elkowitz suggests students utilize
“Go to the library … go anywhere other than your dorm,” Elkowitz said.
especially meaningful home game for Miami. For second-year head coach Scott game will be an early non-conferencetween a bowl game and a shortend season.
What makes this game even more important is the announcement that this series, the oldest non-conference rivalry in all of college football, will end in 2026 at Paycor Stadium. With the series tied at 60-60-7, which team will take home the Victory Bellrently scheduled?
After a month of regional invitationals for Miami, new head volleyfront of the Oxford faithful.
replacing legendary coach Carolyn Condit, who won over 700 career games and 10 Mid-American Confer-
AUSTIN SMITH ASST. CAMPUS & COMMUNITY EDITOR
Many delays and errors plagued the 2024-2025 FAFSA form for incoming students. The initial release date was pushed back from the usual Oct. 1 date to late December 2023, leaving colleges unable to access FAF-
are typically sent out. Students and families were in the dark about their tuition bills until after the May 1 enrollment deadline at many universities, including Miami University, complicating the college decision-making process.
Issues surrounding the 2024-2025 -
ence championships in her 40 years
The Central Michigan University Chippewas will be the opponent forpewas, led by ninth-year head coach a 3-0 defeat last season in their 15-15 campaign.
While Central Michigan beat Miami their last three matchups, the of 40-28.
First-year head coach Anthony Noreen will get his chance to log his Alaska-Anchorage SeaWolves. The three times, with the last matchup and White in 1987.
Alaska-Anchorage has struggled in recent years with zero double-digit win seasons between the 20142015 season and 2022-2023 season.
Touch grass after class by exploring Miami’s natural areas
SOPHIE KWIATKOWSKI STAFF WRITER
stacles for prospective college students nationwide and at Miami, plan for their education.
“It was awful, to put it bluntly, for students and families this spring,” said Bethany Perkins, director of admissions at Miami.
Assistance … and, of course, the students and families.”
passed by Congress in December 2020, brought many changes to the application process this year. It aimed to expand federal Pell Grant eligibility by linking eligibility to family size and the federal poverty level.
The bill changed the Expected Family Contribution (EFC) to the Student Aid Index (SAI), contributing to contribution than before. The bill also rewrote the form, intending to simplify and speed up the process.
There is so much more to Miami University than its red brick exteriits natural areas. After a long day of classes, you can satisfy your craving to get more in tune with nature by hiking, leisurely walking and more of Silvoor Biological Sanctuary to the swinging bridge along Bachelor Loop, there is an abundance of nature to explore. If you’re thinking – “Where should I start?” – refer to the map below displaying Miami’s trails which interconnect and contain plenty of natural areas. On these maps, users can pinpoint where each trail is located and what unique you want to walk along a paved trailportunities for birdwatching, the Bonham Dewitt trail is for you.
Olivia Herron, a Miami alumna and director of sustainability at Miami, has some insights on where students should begin their explorations.
“Students should start exploring at the trailhead closest to their residence hall,” Herron said. “I think that this is a great way to create a routine around exploring the natural areas, especially if you don’t have a lot of time to go spend outside but still want to decompress after class.” The trails certainly are close to students, sometimes right in the backyard of residence halls. Herron also elaborated on how accessible Miami’s natural areas are no matter where you’re located.
“When students hear that Miami has 17 miles of trails, they think that they’re going to have to get in a car and drive somewhere to access them,” Herron said.
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The games of the semester: 4 RedHawks games to watch
‘It was awful’: Miami University and the 20242025 FAFSA challenges
Despite these intentions, the delay in its release date and subsequent glitches caused a nationwide decline in the number of student applications.
“Not only was the FAFSA delayed, it was completely rewritten,” saidnancial assistance. “[This] meant that we had to rewrite all of our processes from the ground up.”
the number of students applying for federal aid at Miami declined from 61.2% last year to 58.3% this year.
Miami extended the traditional May 1 enrollment deadline to May 15 this year for all students and provided additional extensions to families that needed them.
ful to say that all of our students had deadline of May 15.”
-
dents in two batches on April 29 and May 3 this year because of the errors and FAFSA rejections on student
Johnson said many of the rejections and errors were due to poorly written questions on the FAFSA form.
“For example, one of the questions on the FAFSA form was, ‘Are you interested in applying for a federal diintended for students whose parents aren’t able or refuse to contribute toward their education,” Johnson said. that question … and then immediately their FAFSA was rejected.”
Although the Department of Education reworded the question in February, Johnson said it “didn’t help the situation at all.”
As a result of an overwhelming Admission and Financial Aid had to maintain constant communication with parents and students.
“At one point, when things grewsage to students and families rather -
communicate empathy and concern for their well-being and for their abilto give them the information.” by the 2024-2025 FAFSA process,
overall aid increased. Miami had thein 2023 at 15.1%. Johnson said that year.
Grant-eligible students remained relatively stagnant, Johnson said Miami saw its largest increase in aid provid-grams, with the allocation from the federal government doubling.
wanted it,” Johnson said. with the Department of Education over the issues resulting from the Johnson said they are “relieved” that called [Johnson] just in tears with bring in a class and … to be that deassistance to do right by students and to do a fantastic job was very trying and also very rewarding.”
smith854@miamioh.edu
“The dorm is your sleeping area. if you work in your room, you are going to get distracted by friends and all sorts of other things. I feel like I didn’t do it as much as I probably should have.”
Mercer also emphasized the importance of staying ahead on your homework whenever possible.
“Life can get really chaotic, so if you have the opportunity to get ahead on your schoolwork, take it,” Mercer said. “It will give you a little more cushion for when things get crazy.”
Elkowtiz added that a big change for him was managing his grades, as well as his previous expectations.
“People say that C’s get degrees … as long as you pass, you are one step closer to graduating,” he said. “There are so many more fun things to do in Oxford than sit in the library for 18 hours a day trying to get an A.” staying healthy.
“It’s not fun to be sick in college,” she said. “Drink lots of water and take vitamins, even if you didn’t take them at home.”
Even though Elkowitz changed
“I joined the engineering fraterni-
ty my junior year,” Elkowitz said. “If I had been in engineering my freshman year, I would have joined then; you see all these people that joined freshman year become really close friends. You also get to know so many people in your classes and ones that will be in the same academic buildings as you. It is a good way to build a community of people that know what you are going through academically.”
Outside of meeting people and adapting to a college environment, Adams’ biggest questions surround textbooks and school supplies.plies am I going to need?” Adams said. “I’m used to bringing notebooks and things, but what other supplies am I expected to have for class? Do I need to buy textbooks?”
“Notebooks, pens, pencils and a calculator.,” Elkowitz said. “And scissors, no one ever has scissors.”
Overall, Elkowtiz’s biggest piece of advice is to enjoy the freedom that college brings.
“You have this newfound freedom, and within reason, you can do whatever you want,” Elkowitz said. “Go hang out with your friends on Cook Field, go Uptown. Part of the fun of college is exploring and doing whatever comes to mind.”
reieram@miamioh.edu
“But when they realize that they’re located so close to campus, I hope they take advantage of this really cool opportunity to go outside and explore.”
Upperclassmen at Miami have had time to explore Miami’s trails and truly take advantage of the bene-doors. Katie Preston, a senior studying communication design, similarly nature just a few steps away from her dorm.
Hall, and we were always traversing around the forested areas nearby,” Preston said. “It was nice to explore these areas since they’re kind of like those third places that you can go to and just sit without buying something or worrying about classes.”
Izzy Storey, a senior kinesiology major, said how accessible nature was from her dorm and how the beauty she appreciated didn’t necessarily have to be biological nature.
“The outdoor areas of Western campus are probably my favorite,”
Storey said. “It’s beautiful, especially in the fall when the leaves change, and I think the bridges and architecture of the buildings on Western add to its beauty.”
According to Reena Murphy, a Miami alumna and Oxford’s sustainabilof educational events for those trying to better understand the natural surroundings around them. One of these events, the annual Hike-a-Thon on Sept. 21, is meant to connect Miami and Oxford hikers at one event.
“The whole goal is to get people out on the trails while also giving community partners an opportuniabout what is happening in the larger community,” Murphy said. year student at Miami or a graduate student, there are so many opportunities to connect with the natural areas in and around campus. Take advantage of these opportunities to develop your own “third space” and touch some grass outside of the pressures of class.
kwiatksk@miamioh.edu
TRAILS ON MIAMI’S CAMPUS WIND AROUND CLASS BUILDINGS. PHOTO BY LAUREN COMBS
‘It’s
CAMPUS & COMMUNITY
hard to not be with each other’: Long-distance relationships affect Miami University students
countries, so students meet people from all over the world. In some cases, this can lead to them falling in love with someone who spends part of the year on the other side of the country.
places. Some people meet friends,ers while away at school. This can be fun during the semester, but during breaks, it can lead to long distances, others being hours apart.
romantic relationships. It’s not easy to be away from people you love.
Miami University has students
Ashlynn Funck, a senior accounting major, met her boyfriend, Isaiah Jacobs, a senior marketing major, two years ago at Miami. They spend time together while in Oxford, but during breaks due to one big obstacle: Funck lives in California, and Jacobs lives in Ohio.
ing ways to communicate despite be-
talk through Snapchat daily and try to make time to call at least once a week.
long-distance relationships are, Funck said she tries to focus on the positive. While a lot of people can get caught up in their relationships and let their friendships take a back seat, being long distance has allowed
ance between the two.
“It’s given us an opportunity to hang out with friends and still see our friends and not just be thinking about each other,” Funck said. “When we are together, we prioritize friendships
Free Food Pick List Program relieves financial stress for students
SOPHIA MATHUR THE MIAMI STUDENT
In 2021, the Student Success Center approached Nancy Parkinson and the Miami University nutrition department about starting a food pantry. The Culinary Nutrition Depot Food Pick List, run by Parkinson andmentals and small kitchen equipment for any enrolled Miami student.
The pick-list program started in April 2022 and distributed 71 kits from April to May and August to December. In 2023, the program distributed 303 kits. As of April 2024, it has distributed 450 kits.
“We wanted to streamline the pantry the best way we could, so we created the online pantry pick-list program,” Parkinson said.
Students are able to request items though a Google form created by nutrition majors. category: grains, fruits, veggies, proteins and pantry staples. It also includes utensils like can openers, wooden spoons, rubber spatulas, measuring cups and spoons as options.
During the academic year, students can place their order by 5 p.m. Friday and pick up their items on Wednesday or Thursday the following week. Parkinson focuses on accommodating food oat milk and gluten-free crackers. Other common items are pantry staples and smaller portable options, including applesauce cups and tuna cans.
“We wanted to have items in the pantry that students could stick in their backpacks,” Parkinson said.
In some pick-list orders, meal kits are distributed with recipes included. Kits containing recipes include spaghetti, chicken chili, chicken salad, tuna and hummus kits.
Parkinson and her students also creat-
ed the Lunch and Learn Program held from noon to 1 p.m. every Wednesday in the lobby of Phillips Hall. There, they demonstrate making recipes and distribute samples for people to taste.
“We wanted to provide education along with the food that we provide students,” Parkinson said.
A satisfaction survey, completed by people ordering system and convenient pickup as two strengths of the program.
The survey indicated that in 98% of cases, -
es, like books, technology, classes, transportation and rent, those costs aren’t going down so our students,” Parkinson said.
The pantry receives funding from the Student Success Center, grants from the Women’s Giving Circle, faith-based organizations in Oxford and private donations.
Dietetic interns and volunteers help orga-
“A lot of us graduate students have internships where we aren’t allowed to work, so the pick-list program helps with that,” said Paula Concha-Fernández Soto, a graduate student and dietetics intern. “I was not aware that so many people signed up for the pick-list program until I helped with it.”
Lauren Hickman, another student volunteer at the pick-list pantry, also used the prowhile grocery prices remain high.
“I lived in the dorms last year, so utilizing Kroger,” Hickman said.
The pick-list program is available to students year-round, and Lunch and Learn will start once classes begin on Aug. 26.
mathurs3@miamioh.edu
and our relationship.”
The two spend almost the entirety of their breaks apart, as they both have internships and a plethora of other commitments. For Funck, the hardest part of the distance is not being able to see each other face-to-face.
“It’s hard to not be with each other,” Funck said. “I think I would like to hear his voice more often.”
knowing that there is an end to this distance. While she wishes the relationship wasn’t long distance, she said it has made them trust each other more.
Jacobs agreed that the distance has helped them with trust and communication; however, it wasn’t always easy. There were times theyizing it was only because they missed each other.
“Sometimes it feels like . . . we’re not really a part of each other’s lives,” Jacobs said. “We just hear about each other’s lives, which sucks.”
With the fall semester approachbeing able to see each other again after spending an entire summer apart.
powers40@miamioh.edu
GRAD STUDENTS
Want to THRIVE and not just SURVIVE in Grad
Grad school provides unique opportunities, challenges, and rewards. The grad ministry of Cru provides a place of community to help you navigate each of them. We welcome all grads to join a rich community where you’ll celebrate the highs and navigate the lows of grad school and explore together what it means to encounter, follow, and trust Jesus.
School?
MIAMI GRAD
For more information contact jim.samland@cru.org
STELLA POWERS
ASST. CAMPUS & COMMUNITY EDITOR
GRAPHIC BY OLIVIA MICHELSEN
GRAPHIC BY MADELINE BUECKER
CAMPUS & COMMUNITY
The relationship between protests and American universities
HARRY HITTLE
MIAMI STUDENT
THE
Last spring, protests on college campuses across the country generated rounds of headlines as universities grappled with how to appease student protesters and end the encampments on their academic quads. The demonstrations were largely led by college students showcasing their indignation with the United States’ role in the Israel-Hamas war.
Among the protesters’ primary demands were for their respective universities to make public statements condemning America’s role in Israel.
The protests stirred palpable tension among the public and left Americans divided over their government’s
Tensions reached their highest points in the last week of April 2024 after counter-protesters at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) demonstration attacked a group of pro-Palestine protesters. At Columbia University, police stormed a building occupied by protesters after nearly two weeks of heated discourse between students and administrators.
Universities took varying steps to quell demonstrations. Some schools doled out suspensions and expulsions to protesting students, and others, including UCLA and Columbia, called in support from local police departments, a move that drew heated scrutiny.
Miami University, with its relatively small encampment in May, didn’t employ such extreme measures. The university’s initial May 3 statement outlined student safety as its “top priority,” guiding university decisions before the encampment ended on May 9. the nation led many to recall past periods of national angst marked by widespread protests, with many drawing parallels to the anti-war protests of the 1960s. Several history and political science professors at Miami contextualized the Palestine protests of last spring.
The Free Speech Movement
“I think it’s interesting to compare the current campus protests to the Free Speech Movement at [The University of California] Berkeley, which took place from 1964 to 1965,” hisan email to The Miami Student. “The Free Speech Movement started when the university tried to ban students from engaging in political advocacy on campus.”
The implementation of the re-
strictive policies escalated student protests at Berkeley, which evensaid. The movement is widely seen asil disobedience on a college campus, precluding what is now a strong history of student activism on American campuses.
While this spring’s protests polarized some campuses, like UCLA and The University of Mississippi (Ole Miss), the Free Speech Movement
“The Free Speech Movement was led by left-wing students, but a strikingly broad coalition of student groups at times got involved and added that both the College Republicans group and socialist student groups took part.
Anti-Apartheid Movement
“Whenever protests break out on them to the mythic 1960s,” history professor Steven Conn said. “But the better analogy to what happened this spring is the divestment movement of the mid-1980s.”
The divestment movement aimed to dismantle South Africa’s apartheid system.
“In that case, students were outraged by the apartheid regime in South Africa and by the hypocrisy of their universities which paid rhetorical service to notions of justice and equity while investing their endowment funds in companies that profited from doing business in South Africa,” Conn said.
In many cases, current protesters have asked their universities to disclose which companies they invest in that do business with Israel, and to divest from them.
“That’s exactly what happened this spring,” Conn said. “Students were protesting the Israeli government’s treatment of Gazans. They were asking for universities to divest their endowments from Israeli companies … asking for their own institutions to live up to their professed values.”
Presence of social media
A factor not present in protests before the early 2000s is social media.
Before the inception of the internet, protests had to be planned far in advance and publicized through conventional avenues like posters and word of mouth. Although the Nathan French, a comparative religion professor and Islamic studies scholar, insists that students weren’t necessarily any less well-informed.
“There were magazines, there were newsletters, there were pamphlets,’’ French said.
While social media has enabled many breakthroughs in digital media and communication, it has also created a new information landscape. Some social media platforms, like Meta, have tried to limit the spread of disinformation on their platforms, to sometimes little success. Users are then left to decide what’s true and false, opening the door for fringe or extreme views to
“Extreme views can go mainstream,” said Matthew Gordon, a professor of ancient and Middle-Eastern history. He added that fringe views tend to draw focus away from the topic at hand, sullying the core efforts of any movement.
the Israel-Hamas War.
Gordon and French said they saw this dynamic present during recent protests when people accused protesters of antisemitism.
“The careful journalists out thereing the same levels of antisemitism,” Gordon said. “The problem is those kinds of rumors and accusations deare really trying to do, which is to say,ally serious going on in Gaza.’”
French said he found that students often learned about the Israel-Hamas social media feeds. Through algorithms, the content shown on feeds and preferences, which means they often aren’t receiving all of the necessary — or true — information. Often, the content is meant to provoke an emotional response, according to French. the arguments [and] understand the broader histories,’ was swept aside by this very intense pressure from social media accounts on every side of the must take this side now,’” French said.
French said his concern is that students see such posts and come into class with rigid or uncompromising views on a topic they might not fully understand.
The Rowan Hall Occupation at Miami
Although Miami has not historically been a hotbed for political activ-
ism, the pro-Palestine protest on the kind. Professors French and Gordon, along with political science professor Kevin Reuning described the Rowan Hall Occupation of 1970 as an overlooked event of momentous stature in Miami history.
In April 1970, between 300 and 400 students broke into and occupied Rowan Hall, where the Armstrong Student Center is today. The group consisted of members from several campus groups, including the Black Student Action Association and the Free University movement, an umbrella group at the time for numerous student-led political causes.
The students, protesting against the Vietnam War, entered through the university’s ROTC attachment
The protest lasted for a few hours and remained peaceful throughout. However, law enforcement eventually intervened and arrested more than 150 students on non-violent charges.
While only the police force was involved, Ohio’s governor sent the National Guard to Oxford in case of a violent outbreak. Then-president of the university, Phillip Shriver, requested the National Guard be withheld unless absolutely necessary. The guardsmen were never dispatched.
French said students in the protest were unhappy, among other things, with the university’s relationship with Dow Chemicals, a chemical manufacturer that supplied the U.S. military with chemicals for the Vietthe university divest from the company, similar to how protesting students last spring demanded the university divest from companies engaged in
The moment stands out in Miami history because it is widely regarded as a precursor to the Kent State University shootings, which took place two weeks later. At Kent State, Napeacefully protesting students, killing four and injuring nine.
“There’s an argument to be made that if President Shriver hadn’t told the governor not to send the National Guard on campus,” French said, “what happened at Kent State would have been risked [at Miami].” First Amendment Professors Gordon, Conn and French were impressed, and even somewhat relieved, to see students exercising their First Amendment rights last May.
“What’s interesting about the protests is the expression of free speech, and the right to protest,” Gordon said. “I’m interested because I’m a Middle East historian ... but on another level, it’s also about the United States. [Free speech] is embedded in our constitution. I think it’s an absolutely essential principle to an open society.” Conn echoed similar sentiments.
“The only way to achieve positive change is through dialogue, conversation and debate,” Conn said, although he acknowledged that that’s a lot easier said than done. Still, he says, that’s much better than going on social media to take political action, which is a common trend among university students.
“You don’t even have to put pants on to do that,” he said.
hittlehm@miamioh.edu
University and the University of Cincinnati build connection with local bridge project
[were] talking, and he said there was a need for more mentors for the students.” In addition to introducing Miami to the Western Wildlife Corridor, Brunner guides students with tasks like calculations and construction.
The bridge has been under construction during various trips the local project team has taken to the site consisting mostly of data collection. Using a theodolite, a precision measuring instrument, the team collected measurements for their designs. Subsequent trips involved the building stage, where students have transported thousands of pounds of materials a quarter of a mile to the bridge.
I met … one of the head mentors for the Miami student chapter, and we
Eddie Thant, assistant project manager for the team, said the experience has been very valuable to him
as a mechanical engineering major.
“I think it’s been really fun,” Thant said. “One of the reasons why I decided to join our local team instead of our international team was for these hands-on experiences. Getting some hands-on [experience], even if it’s just normal neighbor work, is still good experience, because it kind of gives us a real understanding of engineering.”
The project also provided students with experience doing calculations revolving around statics, a discipline in engineering focused on the internal and external forces of a structure.
The students had to consider the weight of the structure, the wood-walking platform, the weight of people using the bridge and even the weight of potential snowfall. The designs had to comply with Ohio building codes, as well. Brooklyn Lengyel, a junior bio-
medical engineering major, started working on the project in 2022 and has since become the project manager.
“It’s a really great, real-world aplearn in their classes,” she said.
The Community Engineering Corps, a partner of Engineers Without Borders, oversaw the bridge design and provided a review and liability protection for the project.
“When a professional engineer designs something, they typically demand, if they’re smart, some kind of protection from [liability] if they got said. “It’s like an insurance policy.”
To facilitate the construction, Miami’s chapter partnered with the University of Cincinnati’s chapter to help with installation and the transportation of heavy materials such as
prefabricated steel bridge beams.
Future trips will involve the installation of temporary wood beams on the supports to allow the steel structure to be rolled into place. The bridge will be crowned with a wooden walking platform adorned with railing.
“It’s going pretty well,” Thant said. “We’ve been able to make good progress over the spring semester, and that’s something really, we’re really happy with.”
The group’s next trip is planned for Aug. 11, and the chapter aims to complete the bridge by the end of the fall 2024 semester. Upon completion, the bridge will span a total of 78 feet. mill2174@miamioh.edu
GRAPHIC BY OLIVIA MICHELSEN
A BRIDGE FOUR YEARS IN THE MAKING IS TO BE COMPLETED SOON. PHOTO BY LIAM MILLER
STELLA POWERS ASST. CAMPUS & COMMUNITY EDITOR
At a glance, Oxford may not seem town. Beneath the surface, however,riety of options, especially when it an ideal place to grab a nice dinner or a late-night treat.
something for everyone. A few students shared their favorite places in Oxford, including Sushi King, Inand more.
Kofenya
laxing place to study at all hours, Kofenya is the perfect place to go.
ing environment of chairs and a cozy aroma that can pull in a passerby away from their day.
ence major, enjoys Kofenya because of its accessibility.
“Kofenya is so close to campus, when I was a freshman I used to just just super easy to get to, especially in Spring Street Treats
Spring Street Treats, a dairy-free ice cream shop in Oxford. While it’s not as close to campus as some other places in town, it’s a great outdoor
“My number one favorite is friends go there basically every SunThe shop sports seating for warm summer and fall nights along with all to enjoy.
Insomnia Cookies When Oxford enters its winter months, ice cream might not be the best option for a late-night sweet treat. That’s why Rachel Drone, a sophomore art education major, en-
they’re amazing to have by yourself
“My friends and I went there a lot just because we wanted to have a litMac and Joe’sand cheese balls called mac bites and Miami University fanfare. She is a big fan of their food and enjoys the
said. “It’s not really on the main drive, it’s in an alleyway. The restaurant itself is a little bit quieter, but the food is excellent and I’ve had a lot of
Fridge & Pantry
Leilyn
powers40@miamioh.edu
CHLOE MCKINNEY
CAMPUS & COMMUNITY EDITOR
SOLOMON BOWSER THE MIAMI STUDENT
A new mural is set to be painted in Oxford this coming fall on the U.S.
In April 2024, the Public Art Commission of Oxford (PACO) sent out a request form to inform artists of the mural project and the stipulations of their selection process. PACO considered designs from applicants with a -
lin, PACO’s council representative, said they would be focusing on artists with a connection to the community
creasing desire for public art since the city’s only public mural, “The-
mote Oxford life. Since the U.S. Route 27 underpass the mural will serve as part of their arts and culture throughout the com-
lin said. Despite having to remove existing
the entire Oxford community can enjoy.
“We wanted something that has
“We were noticing whether people
After an initial review of the sub-
chosen: Girls Who Paint Murals, Bright Wall Collective and artist Hannah Webb. After great consideration,
PACO selected Webb’s design.
Smith and her partner, Nicole Trimble, of Bright Wall Collective graduated from Miami University with degrees in art. Before putting pen to paper, the pair visited the site, capturing pictures of the wall and surrounding nature.
Acus-Smith said the concept for their mural design centered around Oxford’s call for expression and drew Apple Butter Festival and native wildlife. what are all the ways that Oxford promotes creativity and encourages cresaid. Although Christine Crawford, co-founder of Girls Who Paint Murals, and her partner Alli Renee are based in Charleston, South Carolina, the two attempted to create a design
without visiting. Crawford said they online and decided ultimately to design combined their unique styles and recognizable symbols.
Crawford said. Although disappointed by the competition’s outcome, Acus-Smith and Crawford said they were excited to see the design PACO chose.
“We’re really grateful for the opsaid. “Hopefully, we’ll be there one Born and raised in Oxford, Webb spent her childhood living on the city from her new home in California that
no-brainer.,
“I thought it would be cool to give
For her design, Webb drew inspiration from her memories of Oxford. Particularly, her design focuses on an the city – deer.
“You’d see them crossing the street, you see them passing through your yard, to me that’s always been a
Webb said she is happy her design was chosen for this project because it already has so much personal meaning.
“I hope that what I’m bringing to this piece is something that is uniquely me but that is also uniquely Ox-
mckinn15@miamioh.edu bowsers2@miamioh.edu
CULTURE
STELLA POWERS ASST. CAMPUS & COMMUNITY EDITOR
ever — this time, with “X-Men” icon Wolverine by his side. It’s the teamup of a lifetime, a legendary Marvel bromance – and it’s nothing short of perfect. From the moment I saw the Marknew I was in for a wild ride. The combination of Hugh Jackman and Ryan Reynolds is brilliant, and the dynamic between these characters is nothing short of amazing. Jackman’s
his
of
the
when
with the
Jackman isn’t the only one to come back and reprise an iconic role have to see the movie for yourself toance. Jackman’s iconic return as the on-screen version of Wolverine’s suit, something the character never wore in well worth the wait.
iconic fourth wall breaks and unusual
ic Universe, the multiverse era and even pokes fun at Jackman’s musical theater roles in “The Greatest Showman” and “The Music Man.” Reynolds’ Lively.
Moments like these are the highfun the cast and crew had making it and how much love really went into it. Unlike a lot of recent movies, something that was made because they wanted to make it, not because they had to. There’s so much heart in it so special.
Even for those who aren’t big fans of these characters or Marvel as aeryone, and laughter is almost guaranreleased since “Avengers: Endgame,” wait. Remember — don’t forget to stay for the post-credit scene.
Rating: 9/10
powers40@miamioh.edu
STELLA POWERS
ASST. CAMPUS & COMMUNITY EDITOR
I have always enjoyed going to the movies. It’s my favorite rainy-day activity and my go-to for hanging out with friends. This summer, it became my job. While searching for a part-time job to make some money over summer break, I applied to my local movie theater and got the job. Though I spent a lot of time at the theater before, this only helped to make movies even more accessible for me, allowing theater settings.
Everyone has their own preferences when it comes to seeing a mov-
ie — whether they get butter on their popcorn or not, an Icee or a soda, where they sit in the theater, if they and on. One of the main preferences people tend to have, however, is whether they see a movie in a full or empty theater.
me, it depends on the movie. I do have my preferences on some things — I always sit in the middle of the theater and get light butter on my popcorn. However, when it comes to a full theater versus an empty one, it -
leases are always more fun in a full theater. If there’s a new Marvel movie or something along those lines, I
think it’s better to have that experience with a big group of people. Usually, there’s always at least one fun surprise or cameo, and it’s so much fun to hear how everyone around you reacts.
However, if it’s a smaller release, or something less surprise-packed and more cinematography and story-focused, sometimes seeing it alone or with just a few other people in the theater can be better. It allows the audience to focus on the artistry of the because not everyone knows how to be respectful in a theater.
One of the worst things people can do in a theater is talk. Everyone is there to enjoy a movie, and it can
that. When there’s a lot of talking, it’s easy to miss details or get distracted.
To most likely avoid this annoying occurrence, seeing a movie in a less full theater may be the best option. But at the same time, nothing beats the energy and excitement of a full theater. Nothing compares to people, especially when it’s a highly anticipated release.
& Wolverine,” and the theater was it was perfect. The surprises and hilarious dialogue was great to experience with that large group of people. We all laughed and cheered together, which made it a memorable group experience. I had a similar experi-
ence with the 2024 release of “Mean Girls.” The movie was so funny that I loved experiencing it with other people.
Glow,” the theater was nearly empty, which I preferred in this situation. It felt more intimate, more personal. I felt like that was the ideal situation
Both have their positives and negatives — sometimes it’s better to see a movie in a full theater, other times whether it should be a shared experience or a more intimate one, and that’s up to the individual to decide.
powers40@miamioh.edu
Miami football looks to repeat as MAC champions with a strong returning cast
ANDREW RELVAS THE MIAMI STUDENT
It was a chilly, cool and crisp contest for the Miami University RedHawks football team last December against the University of Toledo Rockets. The tensions and stakes were high in the 2023 Mid-American Conference (MAC) Championship game at Ford Field.
The RedHawks were without star quarterback, Brett Gabbert, and faced a relentless Toledo defense. The pressure, attention and adversity all fell on Miami’s dual-threat quarterback Aveon Smith.
After four hours of gritty play in Detroit, Miami ended Toledo’s hopes of repeating as conference champs with a 23-14 victory. The RedHawks hoisted its 17th MAC Championship trophy, the second in the Chuck Martin era.
As the seasons in Oxford change, so does the current iteration of Miami for the 2024 campaign. The goal remains the same: win the MAC title to repeat as conference champions for 75).
The RedHawks this year will once again be led by Gabbert, who is entering his sixth season in a Miami uniform.
Gabbert appeared in eight games and missed the second half of the 2023 season due to a right leg injury.
he was selected to the All-MAC Third Team with 1,634 passing yards, 14 touchdowns, 140 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns.
While he is the most experienced and longest tenured quarterback in the MAC, a major concern for Gabbert is his health, as he missed 14 games in the last two seasons
Gabbert talked about his previous injuries.
years, but you just gotta keep going and never give up,” Gabbert said.
The RedHawks will continue battling in the trenches with a majority of including tackles Reid Holskey and Will Jados, who were both Second Team All-MAC selections last season.
In the running game, Miami will be without star back Rashad Amos, rushing yards and 13 touchdowns.
Instead, returning backs Kennyplosivity on the ground. Miami will also look towards incoming transfer Dylan Downing, an experienced back that spent three seasons with the Purdue University Boilermakers.
The RedHawks will also be without wide receiver Gage Larreceiving yards and six touchdowns last year. He took his talents to the University of South Carolina Gamecocks.
Despite no Larvadain, Miami will primarily be the same group from last year, including returners Cade McDonald and Javon Tracy.
The RedHawks also return Jack Coldiron, Miami’s top tight end who missed nearly all of last season after being injured in the of Miami Hurricanes. The newest addition to Miami’s air attack is wide receiver Andre Johnson, a transfer from the Arizona State University Sun Devils. He will play a big role in the desert.
On the other side of the ball, Miami returns one of the top defenses in the conference once again. It boasts a strong cast of returning players, including All-MAC Second Team defensive end Brian Ugwu and defensive linemen Kobe Hilton and Corey Suttle.
In the secondary this year, Miami will be without All-MAC Second Team selection Yahsyn McKee as he graduated last year.
Instead, the Red and White will be returning two ballhawks with Eli Blakey and Raion Strader, who both had strong seasons as starters with 86 combined tackles.
The crown jewel of the RedHawks’ defense is the tandem of All-MAC Second Team linebacker Ty Wise and the 2023 MAC Defensive Player of the Year Matt Salopek. The latter ising 144 tackles, 75 solo tackles, three sacks and one interception. Wise and Salopek hope to cause
son, and they will look to build on their incredible 2023 seasons. At MAC media day, Salopek explained that the RedHawks are only looking forward with their sights set on the
“Obviously we had a phenomenal season last year, but we just had to Salopek said. “It is a brand new season for us with new goals and the exbe that 12th team.”
Miami this year will look to make
tough out-of-conference schedule, it’s possible if things go right.
The RedHawks open up the year against a Big Ten opponent in the Northwestern University Wildcats on Aug. 31. After that, they will face their rival in the Big2, the University of Cincinnati Bearcats, at home on Sept. 14 for matchup No. 128 for the Battle for the Victory Bell rivalry.
One week later, Miami heads to South Bend, Indiana, to face the University of Notre Dame Fighting Irish on Sept. 21 in a Midwest clash.
The week after, Miami will face the University of Massachusetts Minutemen at home on Sept. 28 for a homecoming matchup to close out non-conference play. For the remainder of the season, the RedHawks will run the MAC gauntlet, including a matchup against the Rockets on Oct. 5, as they prepare for the postseason in December.
Head coach Chuck Martin enters his 10th season, optimistic about the future of the RedHawks.
”There are a lot of returning cast for us that we’re excited to have back,” Martin said. “We’re in a really good place and excited to play some great football this fall.”
ajrelvas14@gmail.com
Coach Puzo and the RedHawks strive for a deep postseason push this field hockey season
KETHAN
BABU SPORTS EDITOR
Last year, the Miami University RedHawks emerged victorious over the Kent State University Golden Flashes to capture a sixth consecutive hockey. Miami headed into the NCAA tournament with a 14-7 record and aspirations of pushing far into the postseason.
However, after defeating the University of California Golden Bears, the RedHawks fell to the Northwestern University Wildcats. It was the third year in a row that the RedHawks dominated their conference, but failed to push past the Sweet Sixteen in the NCAA tournament.
“It’s kind of become the new said.
“We totally celebrated last year’s success, and it was amazing, but now we’re itching for the next step” creeping up, the RedHawks are going in with the mindset of playing wither postseason push than previously seen.
For head coach Iñako Puzo, who is entering year 14 of coaching for Miami, the key to their success lies in the team’s chemistry.
sure that we have a solid team culture,” Puzo said. “When you get that love for each other inside the team,
ing that team culture was a prominent goal for the RedHawks. With six players needed to ensure that everyone is on the same page and that everyone holds each other accountable. year, when everyone is getting back ideal time for the team to show their togetherness.
“I think so far it makes it really
ally fun to be able to play with people you haven’t played with in a couple months and see the new skills that people come with. It allows us to be competitive and push each other, and there’s no hard feelings once we’re done playing.”
primary focus after last season, as the RedHawks lost seven players to graduation and transfers. When looking at search for players that line up with the values of the program and Miami overall.
the Miami code, Love and Honor, to the highest extent. For Puzo, those words mean pushing yourself to your limits for the collective improvement of your peers.
“That’s the main two words that we have on our mind every time we program. It’s Love and Honor,” Puzo said. “We talk about it a lot because it’s such an incredible word, but also
willing to do whatever it takes for another person, [no] matter what.”
When looking at Miami’s schedule, it becomes clear that the RedHawks will face some tough oppoearly in the season. After opening the season against the Bucknell University Bison, the RedHawks play their second game in Oxford against the Saint Francis University Red Flash
before hitting the road.
In September, they face the No. 10 University of Iowa Hawkeyes, the Indiana University Hoosiers, the Princeton University Tigers and the No. 7 Rutgers University Scarlet Knights in the span of two weeks.
The RedHawks return to Oxford James Madison University Dukes. They leave Ohio again to face two more MAC opponents: the Bellarmine University Knights and the Ball State University Falcons.
At the end of September, the RedHawks will visit Michigan to battle the University of Michigan Wolverines and the Michigan State University Spartans back-to-back. Upon returning to Oxford, they will play the Ohio University Bobcats.
Throughout October, Miami faces the remaining conference opponents, including the Appalachian State University Mountaineers, who ranked with a record of 14-4 (6-1 in conference play).
Though the schedule features some of the highest ranked teams in the nation and tough competitors all around, the RedHawks are ready to
use these games as preparation for the postseason.
“It goes a long way when the end of the season and postseason tournament come around, knowing and being able to look back at those experiences and draw from those games,” we [will] end up playing in those rounds are very similar to what we’ll be seeing during the season.”
Last year’s second round exit to season is here, and the RedHawks could not be more prepared. Fans can that they’ve grown to expect, but Puzo ensures that the team will compete to the highest level on the way to a deep postseason push.
“We’re going to compete,” Puzo said. “We’re going to battle, and we’re going to work every day to play a little bit better. [In] my time here as a coach, I have never promised a trophy, but we have brought so many of them.” @thekethan04 babukc2@miamioh.edu
“WE’RE
Six unique club sports you should try
KETHAN BABU SPORTS EDITOR
College is a time to start fresh and try things you’ve never done before.
One way to do that is by trying a club sport.
Club sports are competitive teams that compete against other universities in regional and even in national competitions. They may require more time commitment than an intramural 50 dedicated teams with the goal be-struction.
In addition to club baseball, basseveral unique clubs that may be overlooked.
try something unique, here are six club sports you should consider signing up for at Mega Fair or checking out this year.
Broomball
The Broomball team is a full-ice team designed for a higher level of play. The sport is very similar to hockey in that it’s played on an ice rink. However, instead of using hockey sticks, pucks and skates, players use broom-like sticks, a heavy plastic ball and shoes.
Miami club broomball plays at the Goggin Ice Center and competes in the Cincinnati Broomball Association and the USA Broomball National Tournament. The club boasts seven national championships since 2008, with their most recent one being last year.
Table tennis Table tennis is a popular pastime for Miami students, as many on-campus dorms have a table set up in their lobbies.
If you’re looking for a dedicated club to the sport, club table tennis is
open to all skill levels. The team practices three times a week, and once a semester, the team travels to a tournament, but members can compete in regional tournaments individually.
Equestrian
The Miami equestrian team is a three disciplines of horse riding: hunt seat, dressage and western. The team competes in the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association and the Intercollegiate Dressage Association.
While horse riding may be an uncommon club sport, the Miami eques-bers of every level. Riders train twice a week and compete in multiple horse shows in the horse riding season from September until May.
Miami equestrian is no stranger to national success, but the program is open to students of all levels. Horse riding is also an option for students who take SLM 150, which are horseback riding courses ranging from beginning to advanced levels.
Students ride at the John W. Browne Equestrian Center, across the street from the Ditmer parking lot.
Rowing
The Miami University Rowing Club (MURC) is one of the oldest club teams on campus, having rowed competitively since 1986. The team competes year-round, participating in races in the fall and spring and training in the winter.
MURC travels to regattas (rowing races) across the country, including the Head of the Charles, the largest annual regatta, in Boston, Massachusetts.
Members of the rowing team compete nationally under the guide of coach Randolph Wadsworth, who has 50 years of rowing experience.
Marauders (Quidditch)
One of the most unique club
Marauders, which competes in the sport Quidditch, derived from the Harry Potter series.
The co-ed sport, formally known as Quadball, features four positions, and the game is played somewhat
which is a volleyball, into one of three hoops, which the keepers guard. Beaters can use bludgers, which is a dodgeball, to hit players, preventing them from scoring.
Miami Marauders includes two teams: a traveling tournament team and a less competitive club team. The tournament team competes against other schools in the midwest and in the Great Lakes regional tournament, the national competition.
For fans of the Harry Potter series or for people looking to try something unique, the Miami Marauders may be
Mudders
Miami Mudders is an obstacle course racing team. Members of the team train for and compete in several obstacle courses throughout the country.
Each year, Miami Mudders competes in the Tough Mudder, a 10-12 mile course that includes up to 25 military-style obstacles.
The club is a test of both physical and mental strength. Along the way, it aims to build leadership skills and camaraderie. Participants race each other, but they also push each other to complete the obstacle.
Those interested in Miami Mudders are asked to try out in order to gain an understanding of the club and
@thekethan04
babukc2@miamioh.edu
They’re in the game: Miami Football players react to EA
terback Brett Gabbert, who was seen playing the game with Salopek at MAC media days in July.
It’s been a long 11 years for college football fans.
That’s how long it has been since EA Sports has come out with a college football video game. After the release of “NCAA Football 14” in 2013, years of lawsuits from former college football athletes who argued that their names, images and likenesses (NIL) were used without proper permission or compensation prevented future versions of the game from being released.
However, that began to change in 2021 when the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) reversed their longtime stance of not allowing athletes to compensate on their NIL rights following the NCAA v. Alston ruling.
The ruling allowed EA to develop the latest version of their College Football series. After announcing the latest version of the game was coming in February 2021, “EA Sports College Football 25” was released on July 19, 2024. Since then, more than 5 million unique players have bought the game, which has generated $500 million in sales. The development of the game has brought one of the largest NIL payments seen yet. Every player that chose to be featured in the game received $600 as well as a free copy of the game.
One of those players is sixthyear linebacker Matt Salopek, who said that being featured in the game is a full circle moment for him.
“I thought it was awesome,” Salopek said. “It was something I played growing up, so seeing myself in that game 10 years later was pretty cool to see.”
There were similar thoughts and feelings for the rest of the team, including sixth-year quar-
While being in the game can be cool for the players, it can be even cooler for their families.
Senior wide receiver Cade Mc-
Donald said that he hasn’t personally played the game yet, but his presence in the game brings pride to his family.
“It’s really a surreal feeling,” McDonald said. “I had a couple of cousins text me and tell me they were getting the game.” McDonald added that the release of the game has helped with chemistry in the locker room.
“I heard it was a big hit,” Mcweek it came out, everyone was talking about it and playing it.”
That doesn’t just include players, either. McDonald added that wide receiver coach Roy Roundtree has been playing the game and talking about it with the receiving core. McDonald added that he thinks the increased competition on the sticks can translate onto the
One of the key aspects to the game are the details that go into a gameday experience and atmosphere. All 134 Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) teams featured in the game have their stadium, uniforms, school tra-ed in the game. Those included details were not lost on the RedHawks.
“I thought the jerseys were very well done,” Salopek said. “The entire stadium atmosphere, especially here at Yager, was super cool to see.”
Salopek further explained that he was impressed by the detail of the stadium, mainly the Athletic Performance Center behind the endzone as well as Miami scores.
Many of the players were also impressed by the schemat-
Head coach Mandy
Gardner-Colegate
promises to continue the excellence of Miami’s
softball program
KETHAN BABU SPORTS EDITOR
ics of the game.
“It’s kind of hard to get the playbook exactly right,” Gabbert said. “But I think they did a good job of getting the majority of the things right.”
As the season gets closer and closer and as fall camp continues to ramp up, coaches will continue to worry about disteam. With players not having much free time throughout fall camp and the season, staying disciplined may mean less time spent on Dynasty or Road to Glory modes in the game.
“I could see how it could become a distraction,” McDonald said. “I think now during camp there’s just no time to play it.”
While some see the new game as a distraction, others see opportunity to elevate their level. During Big Ten Media Days in Indianapolis, Ohio State University Buckeye defensive end Jack Sawyer said that head coach Ryan Day told the team playing the game could help them scout and learn about future opponents. While that seems wild to think about, some RedHawks think it might not be so crazy.
“I think it would be great to look at what players are going to start for them,” Salopek said. those plays that they put in the game are those plays that you see.”
No matter how the new game will be played, it’s bound to continue to resonate among fans of college football. Miami will start its season on Aug. 31, 2024 against the Northwestern University Wildcats, giving the RedHawks little time to enjoy the game before the work for the year begins.
mill2361@miamioh.edu
The Miami University RedHawks softball program enters a new era this year. Former head coach Kirin Kumar headed to Columbus in May to take the head coaching position for the Ohio State University Buckeyes. Kumar’s time at Miami saw the program remake itself into a powerhouse for both the Mid-American Conference and the national stage. The RedHawks captured three MAC championships and appeared four times in the NCAA tournament.
A new face has arrived in Oxford at the helm of the softball program: Mandy Gardner-Colegate.
Gardner-Colegate played collegiate softball for two years with the University of Michigan Wolverines, winning two Big Tenished her undergraduate degree and playing career at the University of Maryland.
While earning her master’s degree at Grand Canyon University, Gardner-Colegate worked as a graduate assistant for the Lopes. Though she didn’t initially consider a career in coaching, she stayed with the program as an assistant coach for three seasons from 2018 to 2020.
“I didn’t think I necessarily wanted to coach,” Gardner-Colegate said. “I did that for three years and just kind of fell in love with it and had the opportunity to stay on, and it just
After six years with the Lopes and one year as an assistant coach with the University of California San Diego, it was time for Gardner-Colegate to move east. In 2022, she became the assistant coach for the University of Iowa Hawkeyes.
During her time at Iowa, the Hawkeyes went 35-27 in 2023, the program’s best year since 2009, and 18-28 in 2024. As the recruiting coordinator, she helped sign three players from the top 100 national rankings in 2023. Additionally, as the pitching coach, Gardner-Colegate dropped the team’s earned runs average (ERA) from 5.03 in 2022 to 2.57 in 2023. -
sition, Gardner-Colegate feels that recruiting was a big takeaway from her previous coaching experiences.
“Every stop, I feel like I’ve gained more things on my resume,” Gardner-Colegate said. “[Iowa] really broadened my recruiting ability to go coast-to-coast, because before I was really just the west coast.”
Gardner-Colegate’s arrival in Oxford coincides with a peak in the program’s history. The RedHawks are on a four-year streak of
capturing the MAC regular season championship. Last year, Miami boasted four players in the top-20 nationally for home runs.
The team’s success is something that cannot be understated for Gardner-Colegate.
“The success they’ve had: You can’t not talk about that,” Gardner-Colegate said. “It’s you step into something [where] the foundation is built as strong as it is. I feel like each coach elevated the foundation and the culture, and I’m really looking forward to continue that.”
The RedHawks feel equally excited about her presence. Junior Madie Patton explains that although the team is going through a major change, fans should expect nothing less than the standard already established.
“People might look at this season as, ‘maybe we’re rebuilding,’” Patton said. “I don’t believe that. It’s kind of, ‘build on that greatness that [we’ve] accomplished.’ I’m so ecstatic.”
Along with Gardner-Colegate, two new Alivia Forshey and Emerald Doria. Forshey previously served as the director of player development for the University of Missouri (Mizzou). Doria spent three seasons as the assistant coach of the University of Maryland Terrapins.
Before the regular season begins in the spring, the RedHawks need to build their relationships with each other and with the newing those relationships takes priority over any softball-related skill.
For Patton, the opportunity to grow unseason even more thrilling.
“I’m excited to continue to learn,” Patton said. “[In] softball, no matter what age you are, you’re always learning. Change is a great thing in my mind.”
After going 49-9 and winning the MAC championship last season, the RedHawks’ excitement for the new year is at an all-time high. Continuing the success already laid by the previous program is at the top of the list,portunities for growth.
With her experience in pitching and recruiting, Gardner-Colegate promises Miami fans that despite the new environment, the program will continue to excel.
Gardner-Colegate said. “I think you’re going you have in the past.”
BRYAN MILLER
THE MIAMI STUDENT
REDHAWKS FANS WILL NOW BE ABLE TO PLAY AS THEIR FAVORITE TEAM IN COLLEGE FOOTBALL 25. PHOTO BY JESSICA MONAHAN
OLIVIA PATEL MANAGING EDITOR
One of the most commonly asked questions when students declare their majors in college is why they want to do what they want to do. Most of the time the answer is to make good money, do something you’re passionate about or follow in a family path. For journalism, that question is a little harder to answer.
It’s no secret that journalists aren’t leading the world in wealthiest salaries, and it’s not exactly the most secure job. So why do people do it? I can’t answer for everyone, maybe some people thought it would be an easy major. But for me, it’s a career in curiosity.
Journalists are the most curious people there are, without bemy experience working in three separate newsrooms, I’ve learned more about the world around me than anyone can from working in one profession. I’ve covered a U.S. Senate Debate, the dramatic ending of a village’s garbage contract, rat casinos, all the best events going on in my hometown of Milwaukee and so much more.
I’ve experienced so many different ways of living, so many perspectives and so many stories through journalism, opening my eyes to a world that seems to have no end – a world I want to discover every bit of.
While my journalism experience so far has been local to the Milwaukee and Oxford areas, my hope is to one day take all I have learned and apply that knowledge to discovering every corner of Earth; from the war-torn Gaza capital city of Beijing and every-
Why journalism?
thing in between. After all, a person who has experienced only what they are comfortable with has experienced nothing at all.
In a way, journalists are the out there. Although my personal aspirations are the driving force behind my desire to discover the world, I have always felt like I want to help people in the best way I know: through writing. I want to empower people who otherwise feel voiceless, which brings my two missions into one
clear path.
I know not everyone wants to be a journalist. Nearly every person I’ve ever talked to cannot even fathom how I want to make a career out of writing, a skill some people describe as a form of torture. So if nothing I’ve written so far has had any impact on you, take this bottom line from what I’ve said: During your time at college, study something that Whether that be economics or biology, English literature or
TAYLOR POWERS ASST. OPINION EDITOR
I’ve always been a humble person. I don’t start conversations about my accomplishments, wanting others to praise and gush about me. I shy away and downplay my achievements if I’m
Yet there are some things I brag about. I become cocky about what I consider myself skilled at, like photography or performing. I especially journalism before coming to Miami University.
However, I admit I sometimes think I’m more prepared than I actually am. I wrote for my high school’s newspaper all four years. I worked my way up the job ladder, eventually becoming the editor-in-chief my senior year. I received praise from not only my friends and family but also my journalism teacher, who wasn’t known for handing out compliments.
I knew there was more to learn in college, but I thought I’d be too smart for my required introductory courses. And when I was choosing clubs to get involved with, I made a beeline for the newspaper, The Miami Student.
I knew TMS would give me valuable journalism experience and help
But I thought I would instantly impress everyone with how much I already knew about journalism. They’d expect a beginner when really they
were receiving an expert. for TMS, I quickly realized this was not the case.
I became acutely aware of how much I didn’t learn from my previous journalism classes. I had no idea there were tons of AP-style rules you had to follow. I didn’t know thereticle. I never would have guessed I writing didn’t have to sound so bland.
I was no longer the only person in the room who cared about journalism. There were now at least 20 of them crowding the newsroom.
I won’t lie and say my ego wasn’t bruised numerous times during my dorm room, I ended classes with B’s and I ate dinner in my room a lot. I auditioned for a dance club and didn’t make it, I submitted writing and didn’t win awards and I made countless silly writing mistakes.
I’ve always considered myself an over-preparer. Someone who packs too much instead of not bringing enough. I don’t ask for help often beout on my own, and I don’t expect to be shocked by big life changes.
I expected not to struggle with reality, I faced them all.
I had planned. I doubt anyone couldlege went as expected. There’s no way
to prepare for what you’ll face during these next nine months.
If I could say anything to incomanticipate nothing living up to their expectations. Make preparations, but expect surprises and setbacks. Don’t set outrageous standards for yourself, you’ll feel silly when you fail. Expect nothing from this year. That way, it’s all the better when those good moments do come around.
If I told myself a year ago how my
semester to make it to a better second semester. Everything has to go wrong for everything to go right.
powerstj@miamioh.edu
theater, secondary education or Don’t waste your time studying something you are only half interested in. Even worse, don’t for one minute say there isn’t anything you are interested in: Trust me, you just haven’t discovered it yet.
Journalism is my personal passion, it’s time for you to discover your why.
patelou@miamioh.edu
I came to Miami University as a declared journalism major who knew one thing: I had to be on the paper. I actually learned about The Miami Student (TMS) by accident. While heading into Armstrong during orientation, I glimpsed bright red fabric, a stack of newspapers and overheard “yeah, we print.” Obviously I made a direct beeline for the table. I knew in my gut this was a sign. I chatted with the TMS members manning the table about what they for and what would be expected of me. Despite the nerves I had, my anxiety wasn’t going to stop me from joining this club. So I scanned the meeting was and mentally prepared myself. When school started and theing rolled around, it took everything in my body to walk into that newsroom alone. I was nervous, I felt like I didn’t belong and I was soon surrounded by strange upperclassmen knew who they were.
Intimidating was an understatement. I sat there silently and looked around at my fellow writers, wondering what I signed up for. I then focused my attention on the table ofing themselves to the crowded room. I decided then that I wanted to be one of them one day.
Two years later, I’m a junior sitting at that table.
Without TMS, I never would in front of more than three people or have the nerve to talk with the pro-
few) editor meetings I couldn’t stop giggling or blushing profusely when our editor-in-chief would call on me to talk about my section. I remember my increased heart rate and panic setting in when heads turned my way. Now, I speak up on my own, hopefully with conviction, and am syndrome clinging to me. The newspaper has molded me into the journalist I am today, but my growth isn’t just from my journalistic experiences; it’s from the people I’ve surrounded myself with. Some of my biggest role models and best friends have come from this paper (shout out Sarah), and I dedicate so much of my time to its success because I believe in what we do. I believe in student journalists demanding respect, holding people accountable and learning everyday. I know without a doubt that I wouldn’t be where I am today, a national award-winning journalist with experience creating a local newspaper, without The Miami Student. stumbata@miamioh.edu
TAYLOR STUMBAUGH SENIOR CAMPUS AND COMMUNITY EDITOR
OPINION
A leap into an unknown future
I decided to attend Miami on a whim. Up until the deadline to declare, I fully thought I would go to Michigan State, which is a short 45 minute drive from home. Two days before the deadline, my guidance counselor talked to me about Miami, which I had applied to but never considered as a real choice.
Going out-of-state didn’t make sense to me for the longest time. Michigan had plenty of solid colleges, most of which were within an hour of me. Most of my friends from high school were sticking close to home, and I thought I would follow them.
The Farmer School of Business and the small-town vibes from Oxford were alluring, but I decided to attend Miami because I knew nobody here. I wanted to put myself in a position where I needed to get out of my quiet, and I struggle with talking to people I’m not already familiar with.
Something that helped with that is The Miami Student.
I wrote for my high school newspaper during my senior year, and I knew I wanted to keep writing going into college. Sports was the obvious section for me, since I was already a fan of football and tennis.
I remember being really anxious about joining TMS, but I emailed the sports editor before I could change my mind and got started right away. Not giving myself time to hesitate about joining proved to be a great choice.
Since getting involved with TMS, I’ve written numerous articles that required me to talk to people I’ve never met before nor could relate to. I’ve talked with athletes, coaches, alumni, fans, professors, parents and experts that I would usually never talk to.
I still get anxious before every interview and press conference, and admittedly, I still get nervous before nights. However, forcing myself to go through with something despite that anxiety has been a huge improvement in my life. I’ve learned how to talk to strangers in a meaningful way to actually learn a thing or two about them.
Whether you know hundreds of people going to Miami or know noing conversational skills and how to do something despite being nervous. TMS can help with that on top of improving your writing skills and being an overall fun experience.
@thekethan04 babukc2@miamioh.edu
KASEY TURMAN EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
I never thought I’d call Miami University home. I never thought I’d call my friends. I never thought I’d spend every Wednesday night in what has become my favorite room on campus. The Miami Student made all of that possible.
As a senior in high school four years ago, I decided the only way I would go to college was if I could play football. This was a tall task for a my dreams came true – for better or worse. I ended up going to North Park University in Chicago as a political science major. I lasted one semester.
The classes, campus and my thoughts all nudged me to transfer. seeing the year through, but I had my mind set. I started the next semester moving into Peabody Hall. I thought itbody haters are wrong. The halls are wide, and the windows have some of the best views on the whole campus.
During my time at Peabody, I declared journalism as my second to go to a larger college and had my best academic semester, all without the one thing I thought I needed in college – football.
a few things, but two stand out more than others – you can be wrong about something you swore by and
Pizza parties and found friends
SARAH FROSCH DIGITAL MEDIA EDITOR
I’d always had a strong reluctance toward writing – not because I disliked it, but because I was scared of anyone hearing my thoughts.
lege, I was a studio art major who, like most 18-year-olds, was nervous about moving so far from home. While I wasn’t sure where I would end up in four years, I knew it would be tied to art in some way.
I always assumed a newsroom was not the place for me. Nonetheless, I accepted an invitation from Stumbaugh, to attend the introductory meeting for The Miami Student. I was adamant I wouldn’t end up an afternoon open and a love of free Walking into a newsroom packed anxiety. I saw upperclassmen sitting atop desks, looking down at all of us. I saw journalism majors who didn’t
question their belonging in the room. I saw aggressively neon-green them – all from current and former students. The meeting started, and the
small groups – sports, entertainment, style, opinion, design and onraphy. I’ve been taking photos my whole life. Still, the casual questions and welcoming introductions from Jake the time, made me feel completely and utterly inept. At that moment I felt as if I had never taken a photo successfully in my life, but Jake didn’t seem to care. I was welcomed wholeheartedly into the fold, yet still intimidated by what lay before me.
Never before did I have the opportunity to share my work so wide-ed by the premise of joining some-
thing so public. I would be giving my photography context, and my work would serve a purpose aside from aesthetics. Despite my experience, my anxiety rose as I reached out tocredibly kind professor with a love Semesters passed, and that same the ranks in the newsroom where we now spend most of our days. My memory as I took on more and more each week. The same “scary” upper-ford turned into some of my closest friends. The world around me hadter for it — even prompting a change in major the spring before my junior year. Hundreds of my photos have been published since, and while Iger cringe at the thought of being perceived. Instead of wincing at the fact that my name now draws search results on Google, I think about all the people, places and events I’ve been able to shine a light on since I have explored corners of campus I didn’t think existed, such as the biology department; I have met one of my childhood heroes, Dan Povenmire; I have watched artifact restoration at Miami University’s special collections library. Although I will always have my moments of self-doubt, as we all do, surrounding myself with journalists I respect — people I dearly love — reminds me why I am here.
@SarahEFrosch froschse@miamioh.edu
About Sarah Frosch
change what you thought was unchangeable.
Sophomore year was completewith my best friend and started working every weekend.
I became a high school football coach at Talawanda, the school in Oxford many Miami students are surprised to learn exists, and spent every day but Sunday working with the players. When the season ended, I started a job at the Marcum Hotel on campus. It ate up my time on the weekends, but it was the best job I could’ve asked for.
I felt disconnected from my friends and college life. I was still going to class and playing intramural sports, but I was missing everything else that comes with college. At the end of the fall semester, I decided I needed to do something to get more involved. That’s when I joined The Miami Student. It soon became the answer to everything I was missing.
I met new people, explored parts of campus and Oxford I didn’t know existed and got to have more of thetel job on top of the newspaper while still enjoying myself.
Sophomore year passed with considerably more bumps than my than ever for my third year at Miami.
pus the summer before my junior year, landed a great internship and kept my second job. I worked with The Student over the summer and couldn’t wait to see everyone when
-
I got back.
Fall semester came and was everything I wanted it to be.
I was an editor at The Student, took all the classes I wanted to and formed friendships I wouldn’t have ever thought possible. Yes, it wasn’t all good, but it was a lot more good than bad.
Spring semester brought more responsibilities than I thought.
with more anxiety and rushed decisions than fall is. Maybe it’s spring break. Maybe it’s because I have one foot out the door to summer. Maybe I’m too relaxed after the extended winter break. Whatever it counter it.
I decided to run for editor-in-chief of The Miami Student, something I never saw happening.
I had been part of The Student for a little more than a year and didn’t have real aspirations to rise above Campus & Community editor. I joked about running the year before, but now I actually was.
I ended up being elected and spent the rest of my spring semester
by. I couldn’t tell you exactly what I spent my time doing, I just know it was a lot of everything. Or so it felt like it.
Somewhere in there I landed my dream internship and quit my job at Marcum, two things I would’ve never done without The Student.
That’s what my junior year was all about. I leaned into the idea that anyone can do anything at Miami, in Oxford and in life if they seek it out and put their all into it. Now, I can’t wait for the start of my senior year. I can’t wait to see all Miami is all about. I can’t wait to give back to what made me who I am today – The Miami Student.
turmankd@miamioh.edu
STELLA POWERS ASST. CAMPUS & COMMUNITY EDITOR
Since I was a freshman in high school, I knew I wanted to study journalism in college. I had no idea where I would go or what I would do with it, but I knew it was what I was meant to do.
While I wrote for my high school newspaper and have always loved writing, I spent the majority of my life in the arts. I was a full-blown theater kid, I was involved in choir and my favorite thing to do in my free time was watch movies. When I chose journalism as my major, I was scared I would have to give all that up.
I wasn’t sure I was ready for that.
Not yet. Before I even started at Miami University, I knew I wanted to write for The Miami Student, so I attended the informational meeting for new students. A lot of the editors went over their sections and what they entailed. I was already interested in writing for the Campus & Community section, but the meeting convinced me to write for the Entertainment section, now known as Culture, too.
I was able to write about what I love and care about, while also pursuing my interest in journalism. It was the best of both worlds – the Culture section allows me to write about theater, music, movies, television and everything that interests me related to entertainment. Honestly, it was a dream come true.
I still write for both Culture and Campus & Community. The Miami Student has given me a place to write about what’s happening in the world and the Oxford community, while also writing about my interests.
Going away to college and leaving the life you have always known can be hard — it certainly was for me. Finding a way to combine my passions and do something I really love is what here. Honestly, if it weren’t for The Student, I don’t know that I would have stayed at Miami. During the spring segot a little bit homesick and became really depressed. I spent most days alone in my dorm room and, occasionally, had a hard time actually making it to class.
I didn’t think Miami was going to work for me, and spent the greater part of my second semester contemplating transferring. For a while, I applications and sent one in.
I’m not entirely sure when that changed. One day, I decided I was transferring. I told my advisers, friends and family. It was pretty much up TMS. I had found my place here and met some of my favorite people in just one year.
That wasn’t something I could just say goodbye to and start over somewhere else — I knew my time at Miami wasn’t meant to end, not yet. There were quite a few more factors that played into my decision, but the biggest one by far was this: I knew my time with TMS wasn’t over, and leaving Miami would mean leaving that all behind. I wasn’t ready for that. At the end of the day, I know I made the right decision. My journey with The Miami Student, and Miami as a whole, is just beginning.
Sarah Frosch is a junior media & communications and art therapy double major with minors in studio art and art history. She joined The as a photographer and is now the digital media editor. About Stella Powers Stella Powers is a sophomore journalism major from Wooster, Ohio. She is an assistant
Upon returning to campus this fall, students will see new construction outside Miami University’s Milred fences south of the stadium will become home to 520 underground geothermal wells, reaching 850 feet in depth.
sition north campus buildings – in-ergy towards heating and cooling through geothermal exchange. This comes as part of Miami’s climate action plan’s goal of reaching carbon neutrality by 2040 on the Oxford campus.
Miami’s Director of Sustainability Olivia Herron describes geothermal exchange as using the Earth as a battery to store heat. In the summer, air conditioning removes heat from the buildings and uses that energy to warm up the ground. In the winter, the heat stored in the ground will be used to warm up the buildings.
Herron said the project is expected to reduce carbon emissions by 5,810 metric tons annually – the equivalent of more than 360 individual human emissions yearly. The project is being carried out under Miami’s physical facilities department and led by Project Director Don Van Winkle
“It’s a big project towards President [Gregory Crawford]’s goal of getting towards climate [neutrality],” Van Winkle said. “It’s going to allow us to be much less dependent on fossil fuels.”
Herron said the project has twothermal wells and connecting these wells to buildings, and the second is putting equipment in buildings that will allow them to accept water from
Once both phases are complete –which, according to Van Winkle, will take at least through the summer of 2026 – the university can begin utilizing geothermal exchange.
In the meantime, Herron said they are trying to minimize the impact on students.
One step of the project requires digging a trench and laying down pipe across the intersection of Tallawanda, Sycamore and Bonham road, which meet outside of Millett Hall. This will connect the North chiller plant – which provides air conditioning to the North side of campus – to
To avoid sidewalk closures and noisy construction near residence halls during the school year, this step of the project will be completed by the end of the summer.
“We have tried to be intentional, like doing this trenching over the summer so that it’s completely done
How
to be a more sustainable Miami student
before students are back,” Herron said.
Drilling will continue throughout the school year. According to Herron, noise levels are minimal in comparison to other construction processes, and all construction will take place during business hours.
Although the grassy area outside of Millett will be closed for the duration of the project, Van Winkle said the building will be used as normal throughout its transition from steam to geothermal.
Around the summer of 2026, there may be times when the building does not have full ventilation capabilities, Van Winkle said. However, this would not be during any large events that would require such ventilation.
“We shouldn’t be doing anything that’s going to be closing down the building so that it cannot be used as planned,” Van Winkle said.
Herron said that when the project is done, the hope is that students climate control in buildings. According to Van Winkle, the geothermal exchange system will lessen the amount of fossil fuel released by allowing buildings on North campus to at much lower temperatures.
According to Herron and Van Winkle, the diversity of the geolo-
pleting drilling a challenge. In the early stages the equipment requires troubleshooting.
“It has started out pretty slow,” Van Winkle said. “We’re hoping that tune the equipment for the location where they’re drilling.”
The ground being drilled is an that location. One concern involves potential delays caused by encountering any large pockets of methane; however, they have not experienced much of this so far.
While the summer’s main focus for the university’s carbon neutrality pledge has been starting up geothermal drilling, Herron says other initiatives are already underway. The Bachelor Hall renovations are another step, as they will allow the hall to be serviced by the already existing Western geothermal plant.
A solar energy project over the existing Western campus geotherexpected to begin in February 2025. Herron looks towards the newest geothermal project and these next steps with optimism.
“It’s been a long time in the making, so it’s very exciting to see it come to fruition,” she said.
kennelse@miamioh.edu
AUSTIN SMITH ASST. CAMPUS & COMMUNITY EDITOR
As climate change continues to pose an existential threat to our planet, Gen Z is emerging as the “sustainability generation.” A Deloitte survey from 2024 found that 62% of Gen Zs reported feeling anxious about climate change.
dent adjusting to college life or a returning student eager to expand your horizons, there are many ways to Miami University. By following the tips below, you can reduce your carbon footprint and inspire collective action among students.
Join green organizations Miami is home to many sustainable organizations, each playing a role in promoting eco-friendly prac-
ganizations are great for learning about green practices and meeting like-minded people.
Groups such as EcoReps, Zero numerous opportunities for students to get involved with sustainability efforts on campus. You can participate in litter pickups, trash audits and community educational events. These organizations also give students a platform to advocate for sustainable changes at Miami with their club as the platform.
tions and more on the HUB, Miami’s student organization directory.
Shop sustainably
With the latest fashion trends sweeping college campuses across the country, many students on a budget may feel peer pressure to buy into harmful trends that use fast fashion. Retailers such as H&M, Zara andmental cost.
According to the UN Environment Programme, the fast fashion industry is responsible for around 10% of global emissions. Therefore, choosing sustainable clothing options can reduce your carbon footprint.
for students to ditch fast fashion while and Zero Waste Oxford’s pop-up thrift store are great places to discover
Additionally, Oxford also has an abundance of fresh local produce. The Oxford Farmers Market, held from 9 a.m. to noon every Saturday, featuresduce and baked goods. Moon Co-Op, located next to Dollar Tree, is another sustainable grocery store in Oxford
with fresh local produce.
of many college students, shopping at the Farmer’s Market or Moon Co-Op is a great way to support local farmers and promote eco-responsibility. Reduce, reuse, recycle
While this might seem obvious, it’s surprising how many people forget about this one.
Miami provides recycling bins in every dorm room, posters in the trash rooms explaining recycling procedures and even AI trash sorting systems in the Armstrong Student Center. However, recycling remains a challenge on campus.
According to EcoReps’ biannual trash audit data, which calculates the percentage of recyclable items found in the trash at dorms, contamination numbers reached up to 25% in certain dorms over the 2023-24 academic year. Improper disposal of food waste has seen numbers as high as 27%. Additionally, food waste is of growing concern at dining halls around campus. At Miami, organizations such as the Food Recovery Network help educate students on reducing food waste in dining halls and provide ways to do so.
Although breaking bad habits can be tough, Miami’s community has made recycling and waste reduction
Attend sustainability events Oxford is working to be known for its commitment to the environment. The city’s Climate Action Plan aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2045 and promote more sustainable initiatives in the community.
Similarly, Miami has its own Climate Action Plan, which aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2040 through commitments to renewable for student transportation and university-sponsored air travel. These commitments mean sustainability-oriented events are common around campus and town.
From the 2023-24 Altman Series lectures on environmental justice to lighthearted events like the annual EarthFest, there are plenty of opportunities to learn more about sustainability in the community. For those seeking a more active role, volunteer opportunities such as Honeysuckle Hacks allow students and community members to get involved and remove invasive species from conservation areas. By following these tips, you should be well-equipped to become a more sustainable Miami student and a better community member.
smith854@miamioh.edu
SARAH KENNEL STAFF WRITER
WELLS IN FRONT OF MILLETT HALL WILL CONTINUE THROUGH THE 2024 FALL SEMESTER. PHOTO BY SARAH KENNEL
My campus celebrity application Explaining college life to grandparents
CONNOR OVIATT THE MIAMI STUDENT
This summer, I pondered the most important questions facing our generation. Among them were “How can I get to Kennesaw State?”, “Should I write in George Washington, Taylor Swift, door?”
laying your eyes upon one of his mas terpieces.
to this completely logical (and not egotistical) conclusion. Here’s why I
pid article for crying out loud. With
mester, were featured on the Up and Up Instagram page (which, surpris
portant people get hate mail.
hate mail if it was a thing at the time.
my history from last semester (I was rightfully earned recognition, more
my highlights from my primary sport
goal. Now, I am featured in the com mercial for Goggin intramurals, and face of the entire league.
I’m also a complete unit on the hardwood. Most of my intramural
once a pastor for a Baptist church in the South. She had the misfortune
tion some of the people who helped me get here. Here’s a synopsis of my
around him in the fall of 2022 and RA on Western campus. Another is also were the coolest duo at MUDEC
ical capital on this campus. Another is cations around campus last semester you were wondering).
And I can’t forget the many im portant people at TMS. I couldn’t
is someone more famous on campus,
Oh and ladies? My DMs are open. oviattcc@miamioh.edu
Upon seeing this I realized that
After hearing her song, I decided spond to their familial inquiries.
There were a few good respons
ing it was for a study session. Anoth er responded to their grandmother, a little too hastily, that it meant “Bring her grandma to post to the Miami ities had to clarify whether or not their own.
BORG?” lets and mental acuity, which she
At least 40% of the student popu one side of the family.
Jessica is a country night fanatic.
grandmother commented that it the men’s tournament.
clearly, this grandparent does not re alize Miami is… well… Miami.
friend and stop using AI to generate pictures of President Crawford with
endure this question.
After his grandmother said she
more than cryptocurrency and Cy In order to appease their grand which she replied, “Well I suppose
pateemj@miamioh.edu
PHOTO BY JAKE RUFFER
MICHAEL PATTEE THE MIAMI STUDENT
SAM NORTON
GREENHAWKS AND OPINION EDITOR
The night had been cold and windy, and I was glad my tent stakes had stayed in the ground. The ground I slept on was rough and rocky, and it had been six days since my last shower. I gained 3,000 feet of elevation the previous day and had carried extra water to sustain myself through this dry stretch of trail. But that morning, my seventh morning on the Colorado Trail, I opened my tent to an unbelieveable sunrise. I slept at an altitude of 12,000 feet, deep in the Rocky Mountains, and the early morning sun painted an incredible mosaic of colors across the horizon and basked the mountain ranges around me in a soft orange hue. My body was sore and dirty, and I longed for a cheeseburger. But at that moment, I understood what had called me to this place. The beauty and the serenity of hiking into the wilderness and up into the mountains were intoxicating.
I continued my journey for another 10 days after this morning, with stops in towns along the way and many more rugged peaks to climb and views to see. It was an incredibly and a half weeks that only furthered my desire to adventure.
nortonsm@miamioh.edu
Summer Vignettes
SARAH
FROSCH
MEDIA EDITOR
DIGITAL
and luxury lit up the room around me my back to the installation by Guerreiro do Divino Amor to see hoards of the globe to see this—the 2024 Venice Biennale. Work still new to the contemporary art world surrounded us, and our only task was to explore it. My classmates and I, who had just spent several hours in various airports across the United States, gathered outside in the humid Italian air, ready to explore the rest of the Giardini. Our urgency was fueled, in of pigeons and seagulls – the noisy birds seemed to follow us wherever we went. We strolled down the rocky roads, visiting work representing Britain, France, Germany, Hungary, Japan, Denmark, Brazil, and on and on until we couldn’t help but make our way to ourselves with pasta, an Aperol spritz and the second mouth-watering serving of gelato for the day. Our feet ached as we trekked back to the Combo Venezia, our home for the next two weeks. Outside the walls of our monastery-turned-hotel, dozens of children play soccer. Their excited shouts echoed in the small courtyard, letting passersbys know another goal had been scored. The sounds became familiar as each night we sat in the courtyard and looked over our notes from that day’s adventure. Despite the fatigue that lingered over the group for the next two weeks, our excitement about exploring beautiful, historic landmarks like St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s palace and the Academia, kept us going. Even small, crammed boat, I knew I would be coming back to this place, someday.
