Stephens Life - Fall 2015 by Stephens College

SL STEPHENS LIFE

Lemon Tea By Tiana Williams

In the morning when the sun greets me at the window I want to reveal to you my shades of brown, give you all of me That resides so comfortably in the shadows behind my eyelids Blind in the darkness and a stranger in the naked light I am seldom yet so often content with being unacknowledged But the hollows of my spirit echo a melody of melancholy that mimics your name Rolling off my bottom lip like honey glossed and glazed Beautiful surface and taste just as sweet Until I rip open my lemony insides Offer you a cup of lemonade and you say youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d rather have tea

CONTENTS

Stephens Life / Fall 2015 / Issue N0. 07

4. 6.

Designing Your Future Above the Fold

28. Issues Under the Hollywood Sign 30. Unmasking a Massacre 33. The Night Sky Veils

34. The Fangirl Awakens 36. Text Neck

40. An Open Letter to My Freshman Self 42. Discovering Yourself

STAFF Creative Director Kalynn Coy COPY + RESEARCH Managing Editor Gabriel Cole Copy Editor Claire DeSantis Articles Editor Marlena Thompson Social Editor Rose Runyon ART DIRECTION

Lead Graphic Designer Kathryn McCarthy Art Editor Jasmine Meurer Graphic Designer Elizabeth Groff Photographers Sarah Vitel, Alex Rinehart, Stephanie LeBlanc Lifestyle Editor Joleen Rosario COMMUNITY OUTREACH Managing Editor Reagan Collins

Relations Coordinator Allie Moorman PRODUCTION Managing Editor Lluvia Garcia Editor at Large Jenni Miller Cover Photography Sarah Vitel Concept Design Hope Crutcher

ADMINISTRATION Staff Adviser Amy Parris Stephens Life is the student magazine of Stephens College in Columbia. Opinions expressed in Stephens Life are not necessarily the views of the college, students, administration, faculty or staff. Stephens Life strives for accuracy. To report a correction or clarification, please send an email to kalcoy14@sc.stephens.edu. Stephens Life welcomes your comments and letters to the editor. If you would like to be published, please send your work to kalcoy14@sc.stephens.edu.

LETTER

FROM THE

EDITOR Revolutionary, Enlightening, Dynamic: these are three words that summarize my experiences with Stephens Women. In my time with Stephens Life, I have attempted to glean insight into the true identity of the prototypical Stephens student, in order to best reflect her throughout the pages of this magazine. Throughout this quest, I have come to understand there is no archetypical incarnation of the incredible people on campus. Although we each maintain unifying qualities, Stephens is made up of individuals, each with their own stories, opinions and experiences. Despite our different backgrounds, each student seeks to embody the upmost version of themselves, ceaselessly pushing forward to exemplify their personal best, while supporting her classmates in their endeavors to do the same. The mosaic of lives on campus ensures that our college is forever changing, evolving and growing. With a nod to the triumphs of the past, Stephens Life aims to embody this growth, throughout the newly redesigned magazine. This magazine is the culmination of tireless efforts from nineteen strikingly different, yet fiercely driven people. Together we have striven to ensure that Stephens Life reflects the reality of our studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s existences, by depicting the passions, problems and performances that our classmates live each day. Life has been markedly different for each of us, yet we are able to come together as a community with mutual respect and support for each other allowing one another to dream up and to epitomize our best selves.

Kalynn Coy Creative Director

Story by Marlena Thompson Art by Gretchen Roehrs

Designing Your Future Personal branding is no longer just a way of self-promoting but a requirement for the advancement of your career and development as a leader. Gretchen Roehrs, a Stephens College alumna, speaks to the importance of knowing yourself and having a brand. Known for her food and fashion illustrations, Roehrs, along with other professionals, gives insight on the how and why of creating your specific brand.

hen developing your personal brand, your goal is to highlight your passions, attributes and strengths in a message that attracts your audience. How you package yourself is vital to your brand. “It’s really about having a strong point of view and being unapologetic about it; making sure you have the things you stand for and making the most of being yourself,” said Roehrs, who graduated from Stephens College with a degree in Fashion Design and Product Development in 2012. “The best way to describe a brand is as a promise,” said Carrie Gartner, a marketing professor at Stephens College. “It’s so important to determine the unique characteristics of your product and how to differentiate it from the competition. This promise reflects your character, your personality, your skills and your perspective.” A brand is more than a logo or name; it can include designs, sounds, phrases and symbols. Creating your personal brand enriches your professional opportunities and helps sell you to potential employers without saying a word, differentiating you from the competition. Maintaining the credibility you have built with your audience

can determine your brand’s success or failure. Kristen Brown, an adjunct professor in Stephens College School of Design said, “The way people perceive me as a person has a huge bearing on the way they perceive my business. This could win or lose clients; it is absolutely key that you craft an authentic brand to your true self.” To create a personal brand, you must begin to see yourself as a brand. How do you envision yourself, your purpose and your passion? What can you do for your audience? There is no deadline for building a strong brand — it takes time. Once you have a strong grasp on your personal brand’s vision, it’s time to start developing, expanding and promoting. Expose yourself on social media via Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Tumblr. Designing your brand is a great investment in your future. According to Stephens College student body president Brianna Jackson, “Personal branding is everything. It is your image, your aesthetic. Pictures say a million words. If people have an image that they relate to you they will remember you. It is what sets you apart.”

ABOVE the Fold

Above the Fold features exceptional students and their accomplishments. Stephens Life staff members and faculty nominated students they found to be exemplary role models within Stephens College community. From these nominations, the Outreach department selected the students that are Above the Fold.

Photos: Sarah Vitel, Photo Styling: Lluvia Garcia, Layout: Kate McCarthy

Hope Crutcher

Fashion Communication

A Fashion Communication major with a newly developed interest in graphic design, Hope’s concept was selected as the new Stephens Life magazine layout.

When did you develop an interest for graphic design? I never really thought that I would be interested in graphic design until I took a class here with Kate Gray. My major, Fashion Communication, requires so many graphic design classes and I was honestly dreading it. When I started learning and getting to create I figured out that I actually don’t mind it. I am very interested in graphic design within the fashion industry. When I learn something in a graphic design class I immediately start thinking about how it can translate over into the fashion world. Everything I have learned within graphic design, fashion related or not, has helped me become more well rounded as a fashion communicator.

What inspired your layout? My inspiration for the Stephens Life rebrand came from what Stephens Life already was and what I saw in the Stephens’

women around me. I still wanted to keep the brand recognizable while adding a hint of freshness and innovation. Stephens’ women are constantly changing and I wanted my cover to reflect that. Even so, I believe that a Stephens Woman is also timeless, a classic— I wanted to incorporate that throughout my layout.

Where do you see your career taking you? I am most interested in a career in the fashion industry. This may turn out to be publishing or it may not. I would love to have my own column someday, whether in a newspaper or a fashion magazine. I can also see myself owning my own business or working as a visual merchandiser. The great thing about my major is that it has prepared me to perform a variety of jobs within the industry. I like to keep an open mind about what my future career will be and I can’t wait to see where my skills will take me!

Maile Wortham

Education

A dedicated Resident Director (RD) of Pillsbury hall, Maile does so much for the residents such as planning hall events and resolving conflicts while still staying on top of her schoolwork and other

What has been your favorite part about being an RA or RD? My favorite part about being an RA [Resident Assistant] and RD is the connections I have made. I have spent hours up at night helping residents work through family problems, [having] homework sessions in my room and watching residents grow through the year.

I have even been able to see some of my own residents become RAs. There is also a really great family within the Residence Life staff. I can honestly say that I have met so many people and made friends I might not have had the chance to if it weren’t for my involvement in Res Life.

What is the most difficult thing you have learned while being involved with Resident Life? The most difficult thing I have learned is when to step back and let people take care of themselves. I am a problem-solver and I don’t like to waste any time. I always want to make an action plan and stick to it, but sometimes my job is just to be a shoulder

to cry on or an ear to vent to. It has been a process to find the fine line of when I need to jump into “RD mode” and when I need to just be in “friend mode.”

What keeps you motivated to continue setting and pursuing goals? I would like to think I am Wonder Woman and can constantly keep going a million miles a minute and reach every goal, but that wouldn’t be true. There are so many incredible students, faculty and staff at Stephens that have supported me and pushed me to work harder, challenge myself and go big. I could name them all here, but it would take up way too much space!

Shelly Romero

English

An extremely involved student, Shelly is an award-winning writer managing to keep her grades up while interning at The Missouri Review.

How do you keep your grades up while being so involved on campus? Despite being so involved on and off campus, I am motivated to keep my grades up because I want to graduate with Latin honors both for myself and for my mom who is my biggest supporter. I keep myself organized with an agenda in which I list every event, social activity and due date for projects and assignments. Most importantly, I take every day one at a time. While the amount of assignments or work needed to be done for the month or for the week is a scary thought, I complete everything due one by one until my work is complete. Taking time out for myself, whether it is watching episodes from my favorite shows on Netflix or eating a box of candy also helps with stress.

What is something you have learned while interning at the Missouri Review? So far, what I’ve learned is how to become a better reader and communicator. Every week, we’re assigned 20 manuscripts to read that have been submitted unsolicited to the magazine. Reading all these submissions has taught me what makes a good story for

publication at The Missouri Review. At our weekly editorial meetings, I have to pitch one or several to our fellow interns. Due to this, I have learned to speak clearly about manuscripts I believe deserve a second or third read by describing the strong aspects of the pieces whether it is plot, pacing, narration, among others.

What keeps you motivated to continue setting and pursuing new goals? One of my motivations is definitely my background. When I was in high school, I wasn’t the greatest student. My grades weren’t the best they could have been. When I got accepted to Stephens, my dream school, I decided to excel at my studies and to be involved on campus as much as I could. Currently, my goal is to get my GPA high enough to graduate with Latin honors such as magna cum laude or summa cum laude, if possible. I also have a great support system that keeps me motivated which includes my mom; my boyfriend, Wesley; my close group of friends; my teachers and, of course, Stephens in general.

Khyneesha Edwards Fashion Communication

A humble Stephens woman, Khyneesha reflects qualities of greatness through her class work and awards, involvement on campus as Mortar Board president and her incredible work at 1canoe2.

What inspires your graphic design work? I am always inspired by current trends and what’s happening around me. I live on Pinterest and I love following blogs like DesignLoveFest and keeping up with what’s happening on Instagram.

What is your favorite part about being a Stephens Woman? My favorite part is the support system we have for one another. Stephens Women are always encouraging and inspiring one another to succeed. I feel like there’s just something special about the bond of Stephens Women. Whether she’s an alumna

or a current student you know she’s going to offer support and point you in the right direction.

Which of the Ten Ideals do you feel best represents you? The ideal I identify with the most has changed over the years. When I was a freshman I thought for sure Independence represented me since I was always ready and willing to do my own thing and make my own way. Now, I would say Belief represents me best. Everything I do starts with me believing in myself. Like most people, I have moments of doubt and worry, but what keeps me going is the belief that I WILL succeed.

Nicole Ihler

Integrated Marketing, Creative Writing and Psychology

A stand up comedian, Nicole is widely involved on campus and with autism awareness groups.

How did you become so involved on campus? One of the first things I did when I got on campus was look for opportunities to get involved. The involvement fair had a lot of great opportunities for me.

Which club has challenged you the most? Campus Life Unleashed has challenged me the most. I have had to learn a lot about leadership from it.

Do you want to continue performing stand-up comedy after graduating from Stephens? I would like to continue doing stand-up. I really enjoy it and making people laugh makes me feel good.

Which of the Ten Ideals do you feel best represents you? I feel that Creativity most represents me, as I have to be that way in both the marketing and comedy parts of my life.

Aja Depass

Theatre Management

A natural leader, Aja, is highly involved with her area of study, as well as a number of organizations on campus.

What have you learned about being a leader? After spending a little over a year at Stephens, I have really learned what being a leader means. It is not sitting in the front of meetings and talking â&#x20AC;&#x153;atâ&#x20AC;? people, or handling everything. It is a collaborative effort; and as a leader, you inspire and support the collaborative process. Being a leader is also empowering others and helping them realize their potential and strengths. It is also the responsibility of the leader to stay positive by not creating negative energy, or by bringing in your own personal problems or biases.

How do you stay positive when leadership roles are extra demanding or difficult?

Which of the Ten Ideals do you feel best represents you?

I feel the only way to stay positive in stressful situations is to truly believe in what you are trying to accomplish. An organization, group or team can’t achieve a goal if their leader isn’t excited, or willing to put 110 percent of effort into the cause because no one will be inspired. On a personal level, I have definitely felt like nothing could get accomplished or wanted to quit (even if it may not look like it on my face!). In order to keep myself going I always think about how my actions as a leader could affect others. It just would not be respectful to bail out of a cause or organization if people hold trust in you. Sometimes putting your feelings on the side for a bit can really make a difference.

I strongly identify with the ideal Responsibility. “Responsibility for the consequences of our choices.” I understand how every choice I make has an effect on something that happens that day—whether it is the choice to look presentable or wear sweats, the choice to smile and hug others (even on a bad day), or scowling and not talking to anyone. Everything is your responsibility. It is your responsibility to send out good or negative vibes, and I choose to send out good vibes.

Heather Manning

Theatre

A published author since the age of 16, Heather has published two novels that are bestsellers on Amazon.

When did you begin writing seriously? In January of 2013, I made my only ever New Year’s Resolution to try my hardest to get published. I had just turned 16 years old. I finished up my first draft of my novel, “Swept to Sea,” and feverishly worked to polish it before sending it to my publisher in May. It was published the following November.

How did you know that you wanted to pursue such an impressive goal? I have always enjoyed writing and dreamed of being an author someday. My 5-8th grade English teacher really challenged me and made me realize that I had what it takes to make a career out of it. When I was 14, I became a fan of an author who was published when she was 17, and it became my goal to be like her. Now, years later, I am friends with that author, which I think is pretty cool.

What advice would you give to aspiring writers? I always tell aspiring writers to never stop writing. Give yourself time to write each day, even if it is only one sentence. Don’t be one

of those people who call themselves a writer and never actually write. The only way you can improve your writing is to keep doing it. I also advise other writers to read as much as they can. I notice all the time how much I am subconsciously learning from my favorite fiction. A good writer is a good reader. Plus, it’s fun!

What keeps you motivated to continue setting and pursuing new goals? My readers, family and extremely supportive publishing house definitely keep me motivated with writing goals. Everyone has been so supportive of my accomplishments to this point that I am so excited to finish my third novel and get it out there for everyone to read. Hearing from people I have never met or reached out to before tell me they loved my books and can’t wait for the next one is the most amazing feeling ever, and I want to keep my readers happy!

Abigail Leon

Biology

A committed peer mentor, Abigail is always there to lend an ear while guiding her mentees through Stephens College and the biology program.

Why did you decide to pursue biology as a major? Through all my schooling, science classes are the ones that I’ve enjoyed the most. There is just something about Biology that keeps me interested and makes me want to learn more, not just necessarily in class. If I come across something I’ve either never heard of, or know little about, I read all about it until I feel like I know enough to tell my mom about it and to answer any questions that she might have. I’m like that with most things, but especially with science. Biology is something I feel I will always learn from, and I love that.

What would you like to pursue once you graduate this December? Ever since I was a little girl I have wanted to be a veterinarian; my 5th grade yearbook says “veterinarian” under future profession. That has not changed in all these years. So, after graduation I will be starting a Registered Veterinary Technology (RVT) program to become a registered vet technician, hopefully finishing the program in the spring of 2017. I will be applying to veterinary school in the fall of 2016 and, if need be, again and again until I am accepted. I am hoping that with me being an RVT I will be able to work through veterinary school. I will not be taking the traditional path to veterinary

school, but I do not doubt that I will make it. It is something that I am willing to work for, no matter how long it takes. I want to eventually donate my time or work at an animal shelter to help treat animals that have been mistreated and have no home to call their own. I can be a part of the solution.

What helps you to be so compassionate and helpful to other students? When someone tells me their story, whether it is happy, sad or a mix of the two, I can put myself in their place. I just think to myself how lucky I am to have met this person. I cry when I read romances, when I see someone crying, even if I don’t know what made them cry. Mostly I think about what it felt like for me when I was a freshman, grieving for my dad and homesick, all at once. What made me feel better and helped me through that time in my life is my family and friends. Not everyone has that, so I try to always brighten someone’s day with a smile, because it might be the only one they see all day.

Darby Jones

Strategic Communication: Design

A student photographer, Darby discovered her gift for “people photography” after arriving on campus and her photography is now being displayed on the Stephens College home page.

What was it like to have your photos chosen to represent Stephens College online? My first photo that was chosen was a fun winter photo of my roommate in the snow. The contrast of her skin on the snow was simply a beautiful combination that at the time was unplanned. We thought it would be fun to take some photos playing in the snow. Little did we know that photo would later be mentioned by our wonderful President, Dianne Lynch as, “The coolest homepage Stephens College has ever had!”

It was an incredible experience to have my photo noticed by my school! I could have never imagined that a photo I had taken of pure joy while playing in the snow could become the face of Stephens College.

What are your future plans for photography? My future plans for photography are left open. At this point I hope to continue DLJDesigns and extend my fan base and my exposure to my photos. I have been honored to have my photo featured on the front page of The Kansas City Star and countless photos on the Stephens College homepage. Things have happened by chance at this point. I have no idea where my photography business will go in the next few years.

I know if I continue to work hard and have fun, things will develop in ways I can scarcely imagine.

What keeps you motivated to continue setting and pursuing new goals? My biggest motivator is my love for photography. So many times I will wake up with the urge to take photos. I have so much fun working with the lighting and the colors in a photo. The beautiful thing about photography is that every moment will only happen once in a lifetime. By capturing the moment in a photo, it allows you to relive that exact moment over and over again. That in itself, is a truly beautiful thing.

Livvy Runyon

Digital Filmmaking

A kindhearted filmmaking student, Livvy is passionate about empowering women and how filmmaking gives them a positive voice. She traveled to Guatemala for an internship where she shot a short documentary highlighting a courageous Mayan woman who is a single mother and community leader.

What first got you interested in film-making? In high school I was really into writing and photography, so my interest came from a desire to capture beautiful images and tell meaningful stories. I think I naturally gravitated to film because it’s a combination of both of those things. I would read National Geographic magazines and watch shows like Human Planet and I knew I wanted to be a part of capturing those kinds of stories.

What was it like to shoot a documentary highlighting a single mother, Mayan woman who was a leader in her community? There are hardly words to describe what it was like to hear Luci’s story firsthand and to gain that small glimpse into who she is and what her life is like. Shooting Rompiendo El Ciclo often felt surreal for me because there was such a jarring disconnect between Luci’s experiences and my own. She’s a light shining in a dark world, for me and for many other women. Knowing her has impacted me personally on a very deep level. At the very least, the experience of making that documentary taught me a great deal

about filmmaking, but more than that, it set something loose inside of me that can’t be put back. It’s a determination to use the education, resources and skills that I have been given to make a positive impact in other’s lives.

When and how did you discover your passion for empowering women? I think that passion comes from being empowered. Throughout my life, I’ve had an incredible support system of strong women who have shown me what it means to lay down your life for others. My grandmothers, my mother, my sisters - I wouldn’t be who I am today without the courage and fortitude they have exemplified for me. I’m so thankful to those who have poured into me, I want to turn around and invest in other women in the same way.

Which of the Ten Ideals do you feel best represents you? I think the Responsibility best represents me because I believe in taking ownership of your decisions and utilizing your own capability to make a positive impact on the world.

Unmasking a M assacre Promoting Safety on Campus By Kalynn Coy

iolent shootings have punctuated much of my life. As a resident of Littleton, Colorado, I still remember the sound of countless ambulances zooming past the Denver Zoo, one mournful April morning. I remember my mother’s frantic calls interrupting a midnight showing of the Dark Knight Rises, alerting me of a horrific massacre in a showing twenty minutes away. I remember a hysterical voicemail from my best friend’s little sister, during my last week of my sophomore fall semester, informing me that our rival school was under fire. Later I discover that one of my own sister’s friends was taken to the hospital in critical condition, where she ultimately passed away.

“Our society has become too centered on the causes, accusations and spectacle behind these shootings when we should instead focus on protecting students against the catastrophic consequences.”

Despite our gaggle of round the clock security guards, Stephens College’s current method for protecting students may fall short in instances of such threats, specifically in regards to communicating situations with students while preparing everyone to best handle these threats. “I would like to have the information more readily available. I’m not sure where to find it, I’m not sure where to send my students, I think information is one of the most important aspects of what I would like to see improved,” says Stephens Professor Kate Kogut. “If you prepare, if you have an idea of what you need to do in certain situations, if you practice and run through different scenarios, you’re more likely to be able to react in your own and everyone else’s best interest. If you start doing that then we can go about our business of learning, of exploring and not being afraid.” Although Stephens security currently utilizes the RAVE system to alert students of possible threats it often falls short of its intended goal for alerting all students of possible dangers. “Some students don’t know if they’re going to receive (emergency text message alerts) or not,” Kogut notes. Likewise, the system is not utilized in all dangerous situations, as the system failed to alert Stephens students regarding the threats at The University of Missouri.

Layout: Kate McCarthy, photo by alex rinehart

et my experiences are not unique. According to the FBI, there have been on average two mass shootings per month in the United States since 2009. Although a mere fraction of these shootings have taken place in schools, the number of school shootings seems to increase with each passing year. President Obama has grimly noted that mass shootings are “becoming the norm.” In November, The University of Missouri received a series of threatening messages on social app, Yik Yak specifically targeting African American students following President Timothy Wolfe’s resignation. These posts mirrored violent messages submitted by the gunman prior to opening fire at Umpqua Community College. Although local police apprehended the terrorist responsible for the threats shortly after his posts began, these alarming posts shook the Columbia community, leading to a relocation of HalfThe-Sky day, and causing students to doubt their overall safety both at Mizzou and beyond. Whether it’s bullying, violence in media, or gun legislation, school shootings have been used as ammunition in a seemingly endless array of social debates. While assigning blame can provide a sense of security, allowing people to attribute these heinous crimes to a tangible source, our society has become too centered on the causes, accusations and spectacle behind these shootings when we should instead focus on protecting students against the catastrophic consequences.

“Students are rarely briefed on the proper response to dangers on campus.”

tephens’ current practices can be improved in a number of ways, with classroom doors that can only be locked from the outside, limited educational preparation for teachers and a lone point of exit in most classrooms. “I have really wanted to be able to lock my door from the inside. My students said they’d like for me to keep my door locked, so it’s locked all the time,” Kogut explains. Students are rarely briefed on the proper response to dangers on campus. Although student orientation once included a short video outlining responses to possible safety threats, the outdated and dramatic nature of this video inspired more laughter than learning from the freshman class, and has been entirely abandoned throughout the most recent new student orientation. Students’ misinformation is nowhere more evident than on the entering class Facebook pages where many students mistake the sound of fireworks for gunshots. “I’d like to see a campus wide conversation,” Kogut admits. “The idea I have is for the students to be aware of the possibilities, but not to be

afraid. The idea of being prepared without being paranoid, that way we can go about the business of learning.” The events that took place in November further illustrate the need for improved security. Since 2011, instances of mass shootings have tripled according to findings from Harvard. The prevalence of school shootings within my life, and on Mizzou’s campus has proven the universality and burden of these tragedies. Stephens tirelessly prioritizes the emotional and social wellbeing of their students. This emphasis should be further reflected in their measures to protect students against the increasingly present threat of violence in schools. While the causes of gun violence are continually debated, these acts remain a tragically real circumstance. Until we are able to eradicate these horrific events altogether, Americans must be as prepared as possible to protect themselves from any such threat, keeping our students safe so they can experience the joys of learning in a safe environment.

The Night Sky Veils Story by Claire DeSantis

love how people open up at night. How the atmosphere changes how we feel – hidden, yet exposed. Safe, yet vulnerable. A night below the galaxies of stars and planets, reminding us our unimaginably small mass taking up the tiniest bit of dirt and air and emotion. I forgo my coat and place bare feet on wet grass, the cold water traveling up through my veins, into my spine as straight as the evergreen trees I navigate. Simple nature sounds add to the flurry of invisible thoughts and rerouted dreams. One, two, three. One, two, three. My friend stands before me, nearing the waltzing river’s edge. The weight of past, present, and future are laid out before him in the form of water and wind, too intangible to control, but impossible to ignore. We sit and let our fingers caress the smooth, powerful licks of water. “What are you going to do next?” I ask. My voice is louder than it should be. “I don’t know,” he says before pausing. The silence momentarily returns as his eyes trail along the water before reaching mine. “But I’m okay with that, I guess. I don’t mind not knowing.” I breathe deeply the pine and cold air and my lungs are almost too full. I nod. Our thoughts run deep in the open space by the river, and each thought leaves our lips without hindrance. There, in the darkness, and emptiness, and quiet, it is as if the void longs to be filled by our musings, connections, and blatancy. The secret filter that seems to smother our deepest ideas, and mask the intentions of our words during the daytime, slips into the black and dares not to show its face, fearing the potency of bold authenticity and honest brokenness. And I don’t ever want to leave the river where

thoughts are freed and hearts exposed. But the light makes a difference. The light calls us to retreat to our hollow cages, to cram the gag cloth back down our throats, and to cover our faces with earth and water, to camouflage into our surroundings and keep the feelings and realizations hidden inside. The light incites fear of being exposed. We fear reality. Our scars and bruises are too real to share, and our fear of being struck down or wounded keeps us withdrawn, shrinking to the safe and the comfortable. In the dark, our hurts are veiled by darkness. You reveal your wild and beautiful aspirations without the gag cloth shouting at you to keep your loveliness locked away. “Can’t you see that the sun will rise and your faults and failures will overwhelm your ambitions?” The gag cloth persists. “Don’t you know that your imperfections will be visible?” A chorus of “run!”s and “hide!”s persuades you to pull your aching heart off of your sleeve and to conceal it in the depths of your being, where it can’t be seen, and it can’t be hurt. But where are hearts cannot be seen or hurt, they also cannot be loved or nurtured or lauded. They cannot be understood, embraced, celebrated, or strengthened. Where comfort resides, growth cannot. I exhale my fear and control, and I slide my hand across the grass until it meets his, cold and worn. “Let’s stay until the sunrise.”

The FANGIRL Awakens

Story by Reagan Collins Art by Kalynn Coy

A long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away, fanboys ruled the fandom world, or so they thought. They didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know that there was another force in their galaxy, a force strong enough to pave their own destiny. The force that has always been here: fangirls.

lthough fangirls have always been around to appreciate the beloved stories, comics, shows, movies and music of the fandom world, they have developed a more prominent presence the past few years. The act of daring to be different and openly express enthusiasm for precious, cherished fandoms is on the rise. And as with every strong force or action to be different, there comes society forming an opinion of you, a stereotype. Society has taken such notice, that fangirl can be found in the dictionary. Fangirls are often seen as being overly enthusiastic, even though they “geek out” just like fanboys. Both of them experience villains and the overcoming of obstacles regularly through the fandom world, but fangirls tend to experience it everyday in real life. Stereotypes are not in their favor. “We form stereotypes at the drop of a pin,” said Eric Marx, a Stephens College professor who earned his Ph.D. in Psychology from Georgetown University. According to Marx, one known instance of a fangirl’s rabid enthusiasm can form a stereotype. An instance of a strong infatuation with a certain character leading to online ranting is a common occurrence. This type of behavior may speak for some fangirls, but it does not speak for all. People do associate with groups and groups do have stereotypes. Because society views you one way, doesn’t mean you have

to. People in stereotypical groups are still individuals and fangirls are no exception. Marx said “we choose not to pay attention,” and once a stereotype is formed, we become masters at only seeing the evidence that reinforces it. Paying attention is the key to opening the close-minded door that is stereotypes, or if we are speaking fangirl, alohamora. Marx said that once someone forms a stereotype or impression, it becomes difficult to overcome. Society tends to believe what they think about fangirls, that they’re overly enthusiastic and ruin everything, is accurate. The overcoming of a stereotype has proven to be difficult, but fangirls have been paving their own path for years by sticking with what they love and continuing to fangirl, no matter what others say or think. If there were ever a group that could succeed in this quest of overcoming their stereotypes, it would be fangirls. There is something real about the stories or music that awaken the need to be overly enthusiastic. They instill hope in the fans and make dealing with everyday obstacles seem possible. Fangirls are not choosing the path paved for them by society, but are making their own. Whether society knows it or not, fangirl culture is catching. The question to be asked now is, “you’re a fangirl, real or not real?” Until the end of the line, my answer will always be, “real.” So what is yours?

The The

Problem with with Texting?

Text Neck

Story by Rose Runyon

Think about it. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re driving home, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been working on the computer and phone at work all day. Halfway home, the bottom of your neck is bothering you. It burns, fiercely. After calling your mom for help, you agree to visit the chiropractor. It hurt when you were cramming for that final, bent over your computer for an allnighter. When you spent hours bent over a notebook, taking notes for back to back classes. It has started to interfere with your life, make you miserable even when doing the tasks you have no choice but to do. Work, school, lectures, homework, repeat. You finally go to the chiropractor and they X-ray your spine using a special tool that shows where there is a temperature change. This indicates a subluxation, or vertebrae out of alignment and pinching of nerves. Finally, the chiropractor tells you what is going on with your neck. You have Text Neck.

it by having you stand up while they use a program on an iPad to take a picture of your “best posture,” emailing you the results of that “best posture” test.

o, what can we do to fix Text Neck? There are a few “home remedies”. They will not fix the problem, only keep it from getting worse. The quickest thing to do is pull your phone up to eye level when you are texting, lay down on your stomach when you are reading and put your computer monitor further up, so you are not bending over it. Sit up completely straight when you are driving, put your seat as far up as you can and put a support at your lower back so you are still comfortable. However, to get the pain in your neck to go away completely, chiropractic help is truly the best plan of action. Text Neck is something that you can beat. There’s nothing to lose, except that pain in your neck.

LAYOUT: KALYNN COY, Photos: Reagan Collins

ext Neck, as defined by chiropractor Dr. Derrijk Hollon of Hollon Family Chiropractic in Jefferson City, is the chronic forward posture of the head and neck, causing pain and more pressure on the neck. It could become permanent. Each inch of forward head posture can increase the weight of the head on the spine by an additional ten pounds. Forward head posture can result in diminished vital capacity of the lungs by as much as 30 percent. While that may not sound significant, that shortness of breath can lead to heart and blood vessel disease. “It really is a problem we’re seeing more and more as teens get more attached to their phones, but adults are starting to seek help for this problem as well,” Dr. Hollon said. Hollon and his wife, owners of Hollon Family Chiropractic, adjust dozens of people weekly. Many of them, specifically for text neck. Getting this news can be startling to anyone, but the Drs. Hollons prove it to you. They diagnose

An Open Letter to My Freshman Self By Joelle Mason

Hey You, Let me start out by telling you that you make at the end of this story (SPOILER ALERT). Between me and you, no amount of planning, practice, training, anticipation, googling, or praying will prepare you for the greatest adventure in your life thus far. You are absolutely insane for getting on a plane and flying halfway across the country to go to school but you are absolutely brilliant for doing so. I promise you won’t regret the decision. You are more fearless, independent, and courageous than you think. You will meet some of the greatest people on this planet, keep them forever. You will also meet some not-so-great people, let them go. Put your energy, encouragement, and trust in the people who do the same for you. Be selfless and selfish. Go out on a school night and stay in on a weekend. Stay up too late and get up early. Eat French fries for breakfast and cereal for dinner. Then learn how to eat better, trust me it will work out better for you in the long run. Fight for what you believe in and gain knowledge on things you don’t understand. Remember to say please and thank you to the people who deserve it and especially to the people who don’t. Remember to call your family more, they miss you, support you, and worry about you more than you know (basically, they are your own personal fan club). Give something to someone, knowing they can never repay you. Learn to forgive but never forget. Don’t ever stop wondering and wandering. Go after everything and anything you want. Don’t be upset if plans change or you lose your way, there will be an answer so just keep looking. You don’t have to know all the answers, that’s why you’re in school. Do your homework and go to class. Lots of people in this world will never have the opportunity. Fall in love and have your heart broken. There will be days of disappointment and days of triumph, both will build character. You will learn from both failures and successes. Be boastful and bashful, prideful and humble. Know when to spend your money and when to save it. Be daring and different. Dance in the snow, rain, and sunshine (sometimes all in one day. #Midwest weather). I promise you will not be the same person who showed up on the first day. I also promise you will be proud of the person you have become. Don’t ever stop improving and don’t ever let anyone tell you that you can’t do it. Remember to thank all the friends, faculty, and staff of Stephens College who were pivotal in inspiring the person you have become. Most importantly remember, “Your job is not to figure out how [ life] is going to happen for you, but to open the door in your head and when the doors open in real life, just walk through it. Don’t worry if you miss your cue. There will always be another door opening. They keep opening” –Jim Carrey So here’s looking at you, kid. You did it and I’m so proud.

LAYOUT: JASMINE MEUER

Yours truly,

3601 Buttonwood Drive Suite E Columbia, MO 65201 (573)447-7437 Tuesday-Friday: 10:30 AM-5:30 PM Saturday: 9:00 PM- 1:00 PM

Discovering Yourself Which Way Do You Lean? Story by Claire DeSantis

A Self-discovery continues throughout different stages of our lives, but figuring out which way you lean – whether introvert, extrovert or ambivert – can help you maintain a healthy mindset and lifestyle. Psychological preferences don’t define or limit us, but instead are tools we can employ in everyday life.

Introverts

ccording to Crina Silasi-Mansat, Assistant Professor of Psychology at Stephens College, introverts are typically characterized as “extremely quiet, reserved, shy and silent.” In the last few years, being an introvert has become more socially acceptable, whereas previously, being extroverted was considered more advantageous. Amy J. C. Cuddy, a social psychologist as well as Harvard professor, claims that “Now people think it’s cool to be an introvert.” This switch occurred for a number of reasons, one main reason being the 2012 release of the book Quiet: the Power of Introverts in a World that Can’t Stop Talking by Susan Cain, which has been referenced by Psychology Today, Forbes and The New York Times to name a few. Cain discusses the necessity of introverts, claiming the qualities that make them introverts can help bring balance to society, focusing on the introvert’s habit of quiet reflection. She debunks the idea that introverts are shy or anti-social, but explains that introverts are emotionally drained by spending time with people and require time alone to recharge. This book is a prominent symbol of the introvert revolution. Additionally, since the rise of social media, introverts have acquired a louder voice. Posts about introverts can be found scattered across the Internet, especially on blogging platforms such as Tumblr. In some ways, online interaction can be controlled far more easily than face-toface conversations. Instead of feeling rushed to respond immediately, an introvert can take their time to discuss their position calmly through writing. Val Nelson, advice columnist and Introvert life coach, said, referring to introverts, “You get to think before speaking. You can write what you want and when you want.” Speaking online places the introvert in a position of power, and perhaps even at an advantage.

Extroverts

Ambiverts

ilasi-Mansat says that extroverts can be judged as “extremely talkative, assertive, active, and energetic.” However, extroverts can also be quiet, deep thinkers who would rather go bowling than clubbing. Extroverts are energized by spending time with people. While being alone may not be an extrovert’s idea of a good time, it doesn’t mean that they are necessarily loud or outgoing. Since extroverts gather their energy from being with other people, being alone for long periods of time is not enjoyable or healthy for them, and can result in depression and anxiety. However, this does not mean that extroverts never need alone time. There are certainly days when an extrovert would prefer to rest and stay home, just like there are days when an introvert would rather go out. No personality trait can define all of the complexities of being a human. mbivert scores result in an equal balance of introversion and extroversion. An ambivert will exemplify both introverted and extroverted tendencies, with neither side outweighing the other. For example, an ambivert might like to spend a busy afternoon with friends, but choose to curl up with a book later in the evening. An ambivert might be content to spend the day hiking alone, but in the evening be the loudest, most enthusiastic guest at a party. Ambiverts can switch between their two personality roles with ease, depending on the context. The difficulty for ambiverts is deciding which side of their personalities would best suit a given situation

hile personality types do not define us, they can help guide us; once we know who we are, we can take care of ourselves, and others, more effectively. If you tend to be more introverted, extroverted or ambiverted, cater to those specific needs within yourself, rather than using a hit and miss strategy until you stumble upon the best route — for you.

RAISE YOUR HAND IF... By Allie Moorman

You shed a tear of joy when you hear there will be a word bank on the test You are already planning your nap for later in the day as soon as you get up You extend no-shave November to December…then January… You get excited when someone mentions a trip to Target, Ikea, or Costco You paint only the toes visible in your peep toes You refer to 2005 as the “simpler times” You still cringe when you even think you hear “Bad Day” by Daniel Powder You think the next iPhone should come in the same color as the Magenta RAZR You get annoyed when someone responds “k” in a text conversation You dream about the day Chipotle delivers You aspire to be Miranda Priestly rather than Andy You wonder why a teacher would want to read a five-page single-spaced paper. I mean, make it double-spaced so I can tell my grandkids about how I had to write ten-page paper, uphill both ways

Eunoia

[yooâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;-noy-ah] (n.) Beautiful thinking; A well mind; Goodwill towards an audience, the perception that the speaker has the audienceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s interest at heart.