do it with heart

Like an unpaid internship, service prioritizes gaining experience over earning money. n otre d ame students have many opportunities to volunteer over the summer, whether it’s here in s outh b end, internationally, in their own hometowns or elsewhere. volunteering can be a rewarding real-world experience that helps students build soft skills like project management and problem-solving.

ndb ridge is a volunteer program for rising sophomores through the c enter for s ocial c oncerns that covers travel, food and housing expenses and also provides a $2,500 stipend. It has national and international placements. The r obinson c ommunity Learning c enter is a local opportunity that partners with Ameri c orps to provide volunteers with living stipends. o ther volunteer opportunities through the University can be found online.

volunteer work is a good experience to put on a resume because employers are often interested in candidates who align with the company’s values. Plus, you get to give back to your community.

Research e specially for those in the sciences, finding opportunities revolving around research is a great way to have a formative summer experience. Whether you’re considering a specific program like a r esearch e xperience for Undergraduates ( re U) or are working under grant funding, finding opportunities in a lab can be rewarding and challenging. m any programs offer their participants decent funding, as well as other benefits like a housing stipend and transportation. Within the program, it is common for networking events and careerdevelopment workshops to be offered.

Grants are another option for pursuing a summer research opportunity. Typically, you must already be working in or have an agreement to work with a particular lab. If you have a predetermined project you’re passionate about, doing research like this is often a great choice.

While these are great options to pursue, they are not without their drawbacks. r esearch demands an extensive amount of time and energy to pursue. Applications are quite competitive — applying to 15 or even 20 different programs might yield a single acceptance. o nce you’ve accepted something, developing hypotheses, scouring relevant literature and creating experiments can take a toll on even the most dedicated of researchers. You might also find yourself in a liminal space between structure and freedom: You have the world at your fingertips, but you can only adhere to certain concepts or technologies. Producing significant results is daunting, and there is pressure to impress.

Entry-level work

If you can’t find something specific to pursue, there’s also the possibility of entry-level work.

In a competitive environment like n otre d ame, you might feel pressured to avoid this option, but there is truly no shame in working.

With entry-level work like food service, retail, babysitting or manual labor, you can find openings pretty much anywhere. Applying to a job may not guarantee you a position depending on seasonal availability, but it’s surely a much less competitive route to making money. This work doesn’t require the most technical knowledge, but it’s important for developing soft skills and learning how to work with people. Plus, they can be translated into future careers and into everyday life.

Long hours in these positions, however, might put you at risk for burnout — especially after spending several months in school. These long hours also might not translate into good pay, as many of these entry-level positions can only offer minimum wage. They’re not optimal if you’re looking to pursue something major-related, but they have benefits nonetheless.

Travel s ome students choose to study abroad during the summer. o thers choose to travel with their families. If you have the extra funds to travel anywhere — domestically or internationally — appreciate it as much as you can. Learn something about the place you are visiting. e ngage with the local culture. d o something that’s out of your comfort zone. vacation is a good remedy for educational burnout, but it can also help you develop your career. Travel can help you connect with a potential employer, make you more adaptable and develop your communication skills.

Building identity capital b etween internships, service, research, work and travel, notre d ame students have a lot of options to choose from. b ut no matter what you choose to do this summer, be determined to make it into a learning opportunity.

If you’re stuck in an internship that isn’t a great fit or working at a job that doesn’t quite match your imagined future career, that’s oK. In the process, you’ll learn more about yourself, make some money or help others out.

These summer experiences are how we can build and solidify our identities over time. According to clinical psychologist meg Jay, this “identity capital” is a way for us to develop stronger networks and relationships and create happier lives. In her book, “The d efining d ecade,” she writes, “identities and careers are made not out of college majors and GPAs but out of a couple of door opening pieces of identity capital.” s o, make sure that wherever you’re doing, you have a smile on your face and joy in your heart. Try your best to build connections, make an impact and be a force for good in the world. And to the graduating class of 2023, it doesn’t matter what you do — as long as you do it with heart.

By CLAIRE LYONS v iewpoint editor

In a world of 8 billion people, what are the chances of meeting your mortal enemy? Unfortunately for the main characters of “ b eef,” Amy Lau (Ali Wong) and d anny c ho ( s teven Yeun), they’ve already found out. At first, it seems like Amy and d anny have nothing in common except for their mutual blood-boiling hatred for one another. In short, they beef.

Amy Lau seems to have it all: a lovely husband, an adorable daughter, a mid-century modern mansion in s outhern c alifornia (that she designed herself) and ownership of a booming bougie plant store that’s just about to be acquired for $10 million. The only thing she doesn’t seem to have is the time to enjoy it. d anny c ho, on the other hand, is penniless. h e’s living out of a motel with his younger brother, Paul, and dreams of the day his contracting business will make enough money to bring his Korean parents overseas for a reunion.

b y all accounts, Amy and d anny shouldn’t know each other, let alone hate each other. b ut after a chance encounter in the parking lot of a homeimprovement store, they end up in a road-rage fueled car-chase that sends their lives careening out of control. As they become increasingly hell-bent on destroying each others’ lives, their beef turns obsessive. They continue to raise the stakes, perpetually escalating the conflict by destroying each others’ property and going after each others’ family members.

The show’s whip-fast pace and high stakes will have you on the edge of your seat, and even when Amy and d anny are borderline sadistic, Wong and Yeun’s empathetic performances give their characters the dimension you need to actually root for them. b oth characters are incredibly unhappy, and their inability to address their sadness turns them into tightly wound, bottledup angry maniacs who have the potential to snap at any moment. “ b eef” is one of the few pieces of media today exploring these ugly emotions without being too depressing and dislikable.

“ b eef” is also rife with striking social commentary. With Amy and d anny’s different financial backgrounds, “ b eef” is keenly aware that the Asian-American experience isn’t a monolith. It navigates the intersection between wealth and ethnicity in America with humor, but it doesn’t deny the effects of structural inequality. It strikingly dramatizes millennials’ mid-life crisis: the anxiety of growing up in a digital age with parents that aren’t exactly open about their feelings. The characters need to perform for their loved ones or they risk becoming unloved. o ne of my favorite aspects of “ b eef” is the late90s alt-rock that punctuates the closing of each episode, elevating an already well-produced show. As d anny makes an escape from Amy in the first episode, “The r eason” by h oobastank plays, singing “I’ve found a reason for me / to change who I used to be / A reason to start over new / And the reason is you.”

Amy and d anny’s newfound beef inspires each other to live, even if it’s just in spite of each other. s omehow, their mutual obsession dances somewhere between hate and love. Their desire to truly hurt one another requires them to know thy enemy. And maybe, just maybe, it takes a mortal enemy to be seen for who you truly are.

Contact Claire Lyons at clyons3@nd.edu

“Beef”

Starring: Ali Wong, Steven Yeun

Favorite episodes: “The Birds Don’t Sing, They Screech in Pain,” “Just Not All at the Same Time,” “Figures of Light”

If you like: “White Lotus,” “Uncut Gems”

Where to watch: Netflix

By GABRIEL ZARAZUA senior scene Writer

I was walking the lakes of n otre d ame back in 2019, exploring the campus the summer before my freshman year. After the walk, I was on my phone when a 90 second trailer dropped for the sequel to “The Legend of Zelda: b reath of the Wild.” e veryone, myself included, was ecstatic for a sequel to one of the greatest open-world games ever made. I was only a sophomore in high school when “ b reath of the Wild” was released, along with the n intendo s witch, a that’s the only game that truly had me addicted for months on end. I played it in class, as the console was so small that my teachers never even noticed (my apologies, but hey, I still graduated, so that’s all that matters). I played it at lunch, on the bus rides to our football games and in the locker room. I woke up on weekends and immediately started playing. I must admit it was a bad habit, but that’s how great the game was.

Up until “ b reath of the Wild,” the “Zelda” series primarily featured linear narratives, with the player finishing dungeons in a specific order. “ b reath of the Wild” marketed itself by saying that if you can see it, you can explore it whenever you want. You can even finish the game in the first 30 minutes, though only a few have completed that feat. s o when n intendo announced its sequel, “Tears of the Kingdom,” expectations were sky-high. People worried about what more could be added, as the new game seemed to have the same map as “ b reath of the Wild.” There were genuine concerns that “Tears” would cost $70. With the release of multiple story and gameplay trailers in the weeks leading to the sequel’s launch, n intendo answered every concern fans had, showing how a franchise spanning 30 years can still find new life.

In “Tears of the Kingdom,” if you can see it, you can find many ways to get there. Fusing weapons and items that took up space in your inventory in the previous game now have a greater purpose than ever before. The possibilities are truly endless, limited only by your imagination. You can merge pieces of wood and fabric together to make hot air balloons and traverse the skies. Yes, this is how the map issue is solved; the new adventure takes place above the old world, on floating islands. It seems “Tears” will have the biggest map in the history of the franchise, and I expect there to be more puzzles and enemies to conquer than in “ b reath of the Wild.” n intendo was finding their footing for this new formula in the original game, and it seems they will perfect it now. With legendary voice actor m atthew m ercer being the first person to voice the historic villain Ganondorf, and Patricia s ummersett returning to voice Princess Zelda, I’m expecting this to be the best story told in the franchise. s eries manager e iji Aonuma stated the team originally planned to only add downloadable content to “ b reath of the Wild.” b ut they had so many ideas, they decided to make a sequel, and the trailers prove that. With the game arriving on m ay 12, you will see me playing this while I’m waiting in line to receive my diploma.

Contact Gabriel Zarazua at gzarazua@nd.edu

By NICOLE BILYAK scene Writer

The 1983 film “return of the Jedi” is fast approaching the 40th anniversary of its release. The third installment of the space opera franchise “star Wars” has captivated audiences since its release, and it helped jumpstart the franchise. so in honor of the film’s anniversary, let us take a look at the history of “star Wars,” and what Lucasfilm’s plans are for the future.

The first film released in the “star Wars” franchise was the 1977 film “A new hope.” released on may 25, 1977, “star Wars episode I v: A new hope” takes place in a fictional universe with a unique magic system. It stars mark hamill as Luke skywalker, a moisture farm worker who must learn the ways of a mystical power known as the Force from Jedi master obi-Wan Kenobi, played by Alec Guinness. The film also starred harrison Ford as scoundrel han solo, carrie Fisher as Princess Leia organa and James earl Jones as darth vader. Upon the film’s release, it became a huge blockbuster and launched many of the stars’ careers in the film industry. The film’s score, conducted by John Williams, went on to be one of the most recognizable scores in film history.

because of the film’s massive success, there were two sequels released over a period of six years. The “second film” of the series was released in 1980 titled “The empire strikes back” and, obviously, “return of the Jedi” was released in 1983. due to the success of this trilogy of films, Lucasfilm released a second trilogy, which was called the prequel trilogy. “The Phantom menace” was the first of the prequel trilogy and was released in 1999, “The Attack of the clones” was in 2002 and “revenge of the sith” was in 2005. This trilogy focuses on Luke skywalker’s father, Anakin skywalker, and how he turned into darth vader.

Then it took a whole decade for a brand new trilogy to come out, and it took an odd turn in terms of plot. The trilogy’s first film was released in 2015 and was titled “The Force Awakens.” Two years later, “The Last Jedi” graced the silver screen, followed by “The r ise of skywalker” in 2019. between the releases of the sequel trilogy, there were two anthology films released: “rogue one” in 2016 and “solo” in 2018.

The “star Wars” franchise is one of the most recognizable science fiction franchises in popular culture. many people go to conventions, dressed as Jedi, sith or their favorite “star Wars” characters. many people attend events based on “star Wars,” and the franchise is one of the most profitable brands with merchandise. There are even “star Wars”-themed lands in both disneyland in Anaheim, california and in Walt disney World in orlando, Florida. The franchise has also released many other media on the screen, including the T v shows “The mandalorian,” “Andor,” “The book of boba Fett” and “obi-Wan Kenobi.” The franchise even had an abysmal holiday special that was released nov. 17, 1978, which the creator of Lucasfilm, George Lucas, has given his two cents about, saying in the past that if he found any physical copy of the special, he would take a sledgehammer to the copy.

There are other exciting projects that are to be released under the “star Wars” mantle, including a television series about Ahsoka Tano from “star Wars: The clone Wars,” starring rosario dawson, and a television series about Lando calrissian from “The empire strikes back” and “return of the Jedi.” overall, as a huge “star Wars” fan, I am very excited to celebrate the 40th anniversary of “return of the Jedi” and am hopeful for Lucasfilm’s future projects.

Contact Nicole Bilyak at nbilyak01@saintmarys.edu

By ANDY OTTONE scene Writer

In 1995, author Gregory maguire published his novel “Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West.” The novel is presented as a biography of the Wicked Witch, named elphaba by maguire, and serves as a revisionist interpretation of L. Frank baum’s classic novel and its popular film adaptation. It not only presents the circumstances of the Witch’s life, but also details her first meeting with Glinda, the future Good Witch of the south, their time together in college and the events that occur thereafter, including the story of “The Wizard of oz.” composer and lyricist stephen schwartz spent five years bringing the book to the stage. receiving backing from producer marc Platt in 1998, schwartz began working on the musical. during the development period, schwartz brought on acclaimed television writer Winnie holzman, best known for creating “my so-called Life.” Together, along with contributions by Platt, the team adapted maguire’s novel, trimming many details and adding their own. despite this, the essence of the work remained.

The show was a smash hit upon its debut, netting 10 nominations at the 2004 Tony Awards, with both lead actresses receiving nominations. originating the leading roles of elphaba and Glinda were Idina menzel and Kristin chenoweth, respectively, with menzel taking home the Tony for best Actress. despite the show’s critical and commercial success, it did not win the awards for best book, score or musical; those honors went to “Avenue Q,” an adult take on puppet shows such as “sesame street.”

“Wicked” celebrates its 20th year on broadway this year. In its two decades of success, it has left a mark on the cultural landscape, with showstopper “defying Gravity” being a notable example. All of this success points the same direction as every prominent broadway musical does: a movie adaptation. Announced officially in 2010, director stephen daldry was attached to the film in 2012 and left eight years later in 2020. he was replaced by Jon m chu, director of the then-upcoming adaptation of Lin-manuel miranda’s “In the heights.”

In the last three years, more information about the film has been announced. The cast features a mix of actors from both theater and hollywood backgrounds. on the broadway side, the central role of elphaba will be played by Tony Award Winner cynthia erivo, and the supporting role of boq the munchkin will be portrayed by ethan slater, best known for playing spongebob in the “spongebob squarePants” musical on broadway. slater has also taken on dramatic roles in the past, such as Lee harvey oswald in steven sondheim’s ”Assassins.” The hollywood actors featured in the film are michelle Yeoh, fresh off her Academy Award win, as madame morrible, elphaba’s mentor, and Jeff Goldblum, known for films such as “Jurassic Park,” “The Fly” and “Independence day,” as the Wizard. some actors in the film are harder to define, falling somewhere between the two categories; Ariana Grande, who has been cast as co-lead Glinda, is best known for her music career and roles in nickelodeon shows, but her career started with a broadway production of “13.”

Jonathan bailey is starring as male lead Fiyero, and he is recognizable to younger audiences as viscount Anthony bridgerton in netflix’s “bridgerton.” however, the actor has also had a notable career in London theater, winning a Laurence olivier Award for best supporting role in a musical in 2019 for his role in the revival of the musical “company.” how do you adapt a musical as beloved as “Wicked?” You need to be careful; you can’t cut out too much or change the show too greatly, but every stage-to-screen adaptation needs to take some liberties to work better as a film. “Wicked” is a two-act musical, and Universal has announced that the movie will be released as two separate films. “Wicked: Part one” debuts november 27, 2024, and “Part Two” is scheduled for christmas day of 2025. despite this, fans have already gotten their first glimpse of the film as a set video leaked of Ariana Grande’s Glinda singing an excerpt from the show’s opening number … possibly. As those online often do, debate has been ongoing on whether it is actually Grande singing or lip-syncing for the shot. Those in the latter camp have their own divisions. some argue it is her own voice in the pre-recorded track, and others are convinced it is a recording of the original actress Kristin chenoweth.

We have over a year until the first installment in the series arrives. While I try to be optimistic about the upcoming film, there is no telling the film’s quality until it releases. All any of us can do is wait and hope for the best.

Contact Andy Ottone at aottone@nd.edu

Happy Birthday: Put your energy behind your ideas and the changes that will ease stress and give you something to look forward to this year. Overreacting will be the pitfall between you and the happiness you desire. Be honest with yourself and others; it will make it easier to let go of what isn’t working for you so you can move on to something more suitable. your numbers are 6, 13, 18, 24, 32, 38, 43.

ARIES (March 21-April 19): l et your imagination lead the way, but don’t lose sight of what things cost or what’s realistic. Pay attention to selfimprovement and veer away from trying to change others. you can have fun without being over the top. Curb your habits and save cash.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Don’t rely on others when the changes you want are up to you. Do your part, choose your path and own the outcome. Speak from the heart and look out for your interests. Protect your reputation, assets and physical well-being from users.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Simplify, downsize and let go of the past. It’s a new day; time to reset your goals and focus on what’s important to you. you can’t change the past, but you can control how you move forward. Be good to yourself.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Put your energy where it counts. reach out to those who have been there for you in the past, and you’ll get the backup you require. A change of attitude will result in new ideas and the courage to do things your way.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Clear your head before you share your thoughts. Confusion will set in if you let your emotions interfere with what you are trying to accomplish. Expect to meet with stubborn resistance if you are too pushy. Be patient, and you’ll get your way.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Don’t hesitate to change your mind if something feels wrong. The adjustments may spark emotions but, at the same time, help stabilize your life. Trust your instincts, and you’ll figure out what to do next. Don’t risk your health or well-being.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Spend quality time with the people who lift your spirits and make you smile. l ook for any opportunity to travel, learn or get involved in a partnership that offers growth opportunities. Selfimprovement will draw attention, and romance is favored.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Not everyone will agree with your decisions, but feeling comfortable and living with the results are what matters. Be true to yourself and feel good about the decisions you make, and the right people will find you.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Be careful who you share information with today. Someone will twist your words if given a chance. Pay attention to relationships and determine who has your back. Avoid joint ventures and shared expenses.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Take care of financial matters. Emotional spending won’t buy happiness or peace of mind. Someone you care about will disappoint you. Show patience and be a good listener, and something good will transpire. l et home improvement projects occupy your time.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): S you’ll face many controversies if you share too much with a friend, relative or peer. Spend time developing your plans and working toward your objective rather than trying to win approval from others. Personal goals, improvements and entertainment are favored. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): you’ve got the drive to achieve your goal. A change you want to make regarding your financial situation will happen if you put in the hours and do the work yourself. Pay attention to the details and you’ll get good results.

Birthday Baby: you are conscientious, loyal and persistent. you are stubborn and spirited.