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Fall Welcome Back Issue 2019
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Fall Welcome Back Issue 2019 MICHAEL MAKOWSKI/THE DAILY CARDINAL
Students who disrupt an individual’s speech two times face suspension, three times expulsion. Each campus is responsible for determining what constitutes disruptive behavior.
UW protest policy may become WI law By Dana Brandt COLLEGE NEWS EDITOR
In November 2016, around 15 students protested conservative media personality Ben Shapiro’s on-campus lecture. Now, the UW System policy that states students who disrupt campus speech three times will be expelled could become state law. Protesters of the 2016 Shapiro lecture — “Dismantling Safe Spaces: Facts Don’t Care About Your Feelings” — chanted “shame” and “safety” before going to the stage and standing in front of Shapiro. As the protesters left, one flipped off Shapiro, who retaliated by holding up both middle fingers. He was able to finish his lecture, and UWPD made no arrests. UW-Madison later released a statement regarding the incident at the lecture. “We are dedicated to promoting a campus environment where all people feel valued and respected,” the statement said. “To that end, the university expects community members to engage in discussion, espe-
cially over controversial issues, in ways that are respectful of others’ viewpoints and that promote greater understanding. We are disappointed that some attendees at the event chose not to do so.” Republican legislators also responded, creating the Campus Free Speech Act, which penalizes individuals who disrupt free speech. The act also sets up a “three-strikes” system that hands out suspensions and expulsions for repeat offenses.
“An essential part of this is that each campus in the UW System gets to decide what is considered disruptive and non-disruptive.” Amol Goyal Shared Governance Chair Associated Students of Madison
While the Campus Free Speech Act passed the Assembly along party lines, it never reached the floor
of the state Senate, the Wisconsin Examiner reported. However, some of the Campus Free Speech Act’s central ideas transferred in the UW System’s Commitment to Academic Freedom and Freedom of Expression policy, which the Board of Regents approved in October 2017. The policy, which is still in place at all UW System campuses, “[r] equires suspension for a student who has twice been found responsible and expulsion for a student who has thrice been found responsible for disruption of freedom of expression.” The Commitment to Academic Freedom and Freedom of Expression currently exists only as UW System policy. However, this August, Republican lawmakers re-introduced the Campus Free Speech Act. If the bill passes, the UW System policy would become state statute. Right now, what tips a protest into disrupting another person’s free speech is up to the discretion of each university. It’s unclear if this would change if the bill becomes law. Associated Students of Madison
Shared Governance Chair Amol Goyal said allowing campuses to make decisions about whether conduct infringes on another’s free speech “makes the most sense.”
“We’re working to make clear to students how to protest in a way that supports all of their efforts and retains the values of free speech, but it also helps keep the campus community safe.” Amol Goyal Shared Governance Chair Associated Students of Madison
“An essential part of this is that each campus in the UW System gets to decide what is considered disruptive and non-disruptive,” Goyal said. “That is the best way to ensure that there is shared governance, to ensure that people have the ability to protest, because America’s civil rights movement is based on protest, and we want to empower students to con-
tinue to do that.” A UW-Madison press release entitled “Know before you go” offered examples of potential disruptive and non-disruptive behavior. Anything involving violence, intrusion, blocking, interfering noise or forbidden signs would fall under the “disruptive” category, while silent protests, small signs, permitted costumes or engaging with speakers if they welcome the interaction are all “likely non-disruptive behavior.” UW-Madison students’ behavior is determined to be disruptive or not through the Protest Administrative Review Team, according to Goyal, who is a part of the review team. The team has developed a set of guidelines to help students navigate these free speech and protest rules safely. “We are working alongside faculty to develop a thorough process which helps empower students,” Goyal said. “We’re working to make clear to students how to protest in a way that supports all of their efforts and retains the values of free speech, but it also helps keep the campus community safe.”
“…the great state University of Wisconsin should ever encourage that continual and fearless sifting and winnowing by which alone the truth can be found.”
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Fall Welcome Back Issue 2019
Volume 129, Issue 3
2142 Vilas Communication Hall 821 University Avenue Madison, Wis., 53706-1497 (608) 262-8000 • fax (608) 262-8100
News and Editorial edit@dailycardinal.com Editor-in-Chief Robyn Cawley
Managing Editor Erin Jordan
News Team Campus Editor Defang Zhang College Editor Dana Brandt City Editor Allison Garfield State Editor Jessica Lipaz Associate News Editor Will Husted Features Editor Sonya Chechik Opinion Editors Kavitha Babu • Sam Jones Arts Editors John Everman • Lauren Souza Sports Editors Nathan Denzin• Jared Schwartz Almanac Editor Haley Bills Photo Editors Kalli Anderson • Will Cioci Graphics Editors Max Homstad • Channing Smith Multimedia Editor Ethan Huskey Life & Style Editor Colleen Muraca Copy Chiefs Emily Johnson • Haley Mades • Olivia Poches Social Media Managers Miriam Jaber • Zoe Klein Special Pages Kayla Huynh • Justine Spore
Business and Advertising business@dailycardinal.com Business Managers Ignatius D. Devkalis • Kyven Lee Advertising Managers Nick Dotson • Ally Moore • Daniel Tryba Marketing Director Elizabeth Jortberg The Daily Cardinal is a nonprofit organization run by its staff members and elected editors. It receives no funds from the university. Operating revenue is generated from advertising and subscription sales. The Daily Cardinal is published weekdays and distributed at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and its surrounding community with a circulation of 10,000. Capital Newspapers, Inc. is the Cardinal’s printer. The Daily Cardinal is printed on recycled paper. The Cardinal is a member of the Associated Collegiate Press and the Wisconsin Newspaper Association. All copy, photographs and graphics appearing in The Daily Cardinal are the sole property of the Cardinal and may not be reproduced without written permission of the editor in chief. The Daily Cardinal accepts advertising representing a wide range of views. This acceptance does not imply agreement with the views expressed. The Cardinal reserves the right to reject advertisements judged offensive based on imagery, wording or both. Complaints: News and editorial complaints should be presented to the editor in chief. Business and advertising complaints should be presented to the business manager. Letters Policy: Letters must be word processed and must include contact information. No anonymous letters will be printed. All letters to the editor will be printed at the discretion of The Daily Cardinal. Letters may be sent to opinion@dailycardinal.com.
Editorial Board
Robyn Cawley • Erin Jordan • Kavitha Babu • Sam Jones
Board of Directors
Herman Baumann, President Phil Brinkman • Robyn Cawley • Erin Jordan • Mike Barth Phil Hands • Don Miner Nancy Sandy • Jennifer Sereno Elizabeth Jortberg Scott Girard • Alex Kusters
© 2019, The Daily Cardinal Media Corporation ISSN 0011-5398
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Why you have your fitness tracker might determine how long you wear it By Sonya Chechik FEATURES EDITOR
While walking down the street or looking around the gym, it’s inevitable to see others looking at their wrists — chances are equally likely that they’re checking the time along with their daily step count or heart rate on their Fitbit. Wearable fitness technology was ranked the top fitness trend of 2019 by the American College of Sports Medicine’s Health and Fitness Journal. Yet, while these trending devices can serve as initial motivators to get active, there are mixed opinions regarding their effectiveness in changing individuals’ habits for the long term. “If people want to use them — and that’s the big ‘if’ — then it provides a self-monitoring tool,” said Jess Gorzelitz, a PhD candidate in the Department of Kinesiology who focuses on the physical activity habits of various populations. If people think they’re not staying active or sitting too much, then one of the biggest advantages of this kind of technology is that they can get feedback on their natural tendencies, she added. Natalie Hammer, a senior at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, started using a Fitbit about six months ago with the hope it would help her be more conscious of her health and exercise. After she started wearing her Fitbit, Hammer was able to recognize that she felt better on days she was more active. “I was super active without even realizing it,” she said. “It’s good to know that I can be active and healthy even doing small activities.”
Trending Technology
Wearables are small devices that are either worn or attached to the body and can provide feedback on a variety of health or fitness measurements like steps, sleep or heart rate. The technology is easily accessible — an abundance of products beyond well-known brands like Fitbit and Apple Watches exist to meet all individuals’ needs and budgets. One-third of the global population use a mobile app or fitness tracking device to monitor their health, according to a 2016 study by Statista. Wearables can provide both an incentive to get active and positive affirmation in one’s increased activity. While they’re frequently marketed as a motivator to get fit, it’s important to recognize that they’re only part of the process of being active. “People get really excited about a new technology and think it’s going to make them lose twenty pounds and it’s a super inflated expectation of what this small device can do,” Gorzelitz said. “Sometimes people fall off the wagon with wearing it because it’s not a cure-all.” Thirty percent of users stop wearing their device after six months, and half of those who ever owned a wearable stopped using it entirely, according to a commercial study from 2014.
Motivation Matters
Hammer was already motivated to be active, but wearing her Fitbit was an additional push to regularly exercise.
“I know that sounds so stupid, but just kind of having that positive affirmation helped me see how much I was doing versus just laying down and watching Netflix. Like, ‘Oh you’re actually getting active,’” she shared. While these trackers may be key to staying motivated toward being healthier, it’s not always enough to sustain new habits over time. Wearables are a source of external motivation — people are motivated to reach a certain number of steps or an increased heart rate for a certain amount of time. Internal motivation, on the other hand, is taking part in an activity for its own sake. Gorzelitz said you could argue that people who are internally motivated are more likely to succeed in the long-term. “If you’re only getting your steps to win or to rack up the step count, you’re not necessarily focused on the purpose of physical activity,” she explained. Being physically active has plenty of benefits beyond staying in shape — it’s good for your mood, good for your sleep and helps you focus. She clarified that people are motivated by different things, and there is variation in one’s ability to keep up with a new habit purely from an external motivator. Research shows that physical activity that makes people feel good in the moment motivates more
than a big-picture goal like losing weight or improving one’s health, an article in ACSM Health and Fitness Journal reported. Hammer explained that when she’s doing something active that she enjoys, the tracker almost becomes irrelevant. “When I’m hiking I don’t really care [about my tracker]. I’ll look at it when I’m done and be like, ‘Oh, that was a great hike!’” she said. But when the motive for exercise is different — like when she is working out — she checks her tracker more frequently because she just wants to be done. Trackers can increase participation in an activity — but they can simultaneously take the joy out of the activity because it undermines one’s internal motivation, according to a recent study. Tracking one’s activity puts the emphasis on the outcome instead of the experience. This can turn the activity into a chore, removing the natural pleasure one gets from taking part in it, and ultimately leading to a decrease in participation over time. Instead of focusing on the numbers, paying attention to how one feels when they’re exercising can actually serve as a better motivator to stay active because it makes the activity enjoyable. “[A tracker] is not going to completely change your life unless you wwant it to,” Gorzelitz said.
Making the Device Work for You
Sometimes knowing exactly how active one is on a given day can be disheartening when you realize how little you’ve done, Hammer said. “That was maybe a downside because I was definitely a little harder on myself,” she added. Gorzelitz, who herself has had a Fitbit since 2011, said her advice to individuals considering investing in a wearable is to think of the device as a tool. If people want to increase their activity they should set realistic goals so they don’t get discouraged and then use the technology to track how they’re doing in reaching them. “Some people if they don’t like using their trackers or they don’t like the numbers they get it can cause people to be insufficiently active — it can be demoralizing. Like, ‘Wow, I’m only getting 1,000 steps and I need 10,000?’” she said. “There is a risk that it can turn people completely off of physical activity.” She emphasized that even if 10,000 daily steps are recommended, 7,500 would be better than nothing. “At the end of the day we should all be physically active and if these trackers serve as a tool, [then] it’s an important behavior change tool we can use to help people,” Gorzelitz said.
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Fall Welcome Back Issue 2019
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How to kick off fall semester right: A few tips for a great start to new year By Allie Sprink LIFE & STYLE STAFF WRITER
After a long, relaxing summer break, returning back to scwhool and your other obligations at UW-Madison may be difficult. As classes begin, it can be easy to become overwhelmed to the point where it becomes hard to get things done. To avoid this, I have three easy tips for you to follow to help ensure a smooth start to this new school year. Get into a routine as soon as you can Summer might not have necessarily been the most structured. If you’re anything like me, falling out of my usual routine or habit was easy this summer. As you come back, however, it is important to find a comfortable routine that is conducive to you and your schedule. Getting started with your routine right away will not only make you feel more organized, but it will help you set up your daily structure and find a way to balance your homework, social life, and hobbies. Setting yourself up for success and having an easy transition will ensure that you do not have to miss out on anything that is important. Find a way to de-stress yourself As summer ends you are hopefully coming back to school with a very destressed mind and a positive attitude. Unfortunately, it is very easy to become
stressed again once classes are in full swing. To avoid this, do things during the week that ease your mind. Go for a run or take a stroll on the Lakeshore Path, grab ice cream at Memorial Union or watch the Badgers play at Camp Randall. Whatever it may be, remember to allow yourself to have fun so that you can have peace of mind and a balanced school year. Do not let yourself fall behind Being on break for over three months can cause one to lose a lot of motivation. As all of the students return to campus and begin to have large workloads on their shoulders, it is important to remember to not let yourself fall behind. College is where you come to learn, both about yourself and about the career path you want to take. You owe it to yourself to begin that journey by putting forth the highest amount of effort that you possibly can. By following all of these tips, you may find yourself on the path to success as we face the school year head on. Most importantly, remember to be yourself and cut yourself some slack. Balancing school, work, friends and a social life can be difficult, but you’re going to do great. Every new school year comes new opportunities, so do yourself a favor and start off strong for the best year yet.
KATIE SCHEIDT/THE DAILY CARDINAL
Start the school year off right by being refreshed, relaxed and rejuvinated.
How to be mentally prepared for upcoming fall semester By Katie Arneson LIFE & STYLE STAFF WRITER
Going back to school can be an insanely stressful time. If you’re anything like me, you’ll need some serious self-care. I’m here to tell you the best ways to keep a clear headspace during the first hectic weeks of college with classes, clubs and craziness. Take time for yourself I’m always guilty of diving right into school work and completely neglecting myself. Remember that there is a syllabus week for a reason and to take full advantage of the low-stress nature of it. There is no need to be stressed yet, so why stress yourself out? Take a nap, go
for a run or walk, watch a bad rom-com and order takeout. Do the things that you usually put on the back burner while you have time to before the semester gets into full swing. Can you say face mask? I’m a HUGE believer in face masks. Moisturizing, pimple-zapping, rednessbusting or pH-balancing, I will trust that tiny bottle with my life. Face masks always make me feel like I’m doing something right for both my body and my mental health, so definitely test some out. Put on your favorite podcast, read a book or watch your Netflix show simultaneously. One of my favorites is I Do Care’s “Pure to the Pore” volcanic ash mask. Sounds boujee, I know, but it’s only $12 from Ulta. Yes, please. As someone who has always struggled with acne, I can attest to the feelgood quality of this product. Make yourself a nice dinner. Yes, cooking can suck, especially when you have no time to do it, and Jimmy Johns is freaky fast. But, if you treat yourself to a nice balanced dinner before the madness of school begins, I can promise that you will feel so much more prepared. Taking the time to make yourself your favorite dish before you get too busy, you will be ready to take on your awful Econ lecture or the class that you’ve been dreading all summer. After all, a good meal equals a good attitude. Organize. Organize. Organize. Maybe this is just me, but organizing all of my school supplies always makes me feel good before I take on a heavy course load. Along with trying to keep other areas of my life organized, doing so with school supplies will help you start off your semester on the right foot. Buying your supplies in advance will relieve you of that stressful thought of “oh my, I never bought that book” and ensure that you’re fully prepared to take on that horrible 8 a.m. that you have not been looking forward to. I may not be making the Dean’s List every semester, but I’ve been around the block, and I know a thing or two about how crazy the first week or two of the semester can be. Take time for yourself, whether it be a face mask, bad movie, takeout or obsessively organizing your belongings. Doing the little things that help you start off on the right foot will surely lead to a successful semester.
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Kickstart the semester in the arts scene By John Everman ARTS EDITOR
Movies/Films: “Ad Astra” — Sept. 20 Brad Pitt stars as astronaut Roy McBride in director James Gray’s science fiction space adventure about a man in search of his missing scientist father, whose experiment poses a threat to the continued survival of humankind. Also starring are Liv Tyler as McBride’s wife Eve, Ruth Neega, as well as veteran actors Donald Sutherland and Tommy Lee Jones. “Joker” — Oct. 4 In this gritty and dark reimaging of the origins of DC Comics’ greatest villain, Academy Award nominee Joaquin Phoenix stars as Arthur Fleck. A failed comedian living with mental illness, Fleck himself feels like a joke to the insensitive people of Gotham City. Stepped on his whole life, he finally decides to have the last laugh, donning the legendary clown paint and taking on the persona of the Joker. Directed by Todd Phillips and co-starring Zazie Beetz (“Deadpool 2”) with film legend Robert De Niro, “Joker” is already generating Oscar buzz and recently received an eightminute standing ovation at the Venice Film Festival. “Harriet” — Nov. 1 A biopic about a real American hero which feels long overdue, the incredible
true story of Harriet Tubman and the establishment of the Underground Railroad will finally be told on the big screen. An escaped slave turned abolitionist; Tubman would make over a dozen rescue missions to personally free as many as 70 slaves over her lifetime. “Harriet” stars Cynthia Ervio (“Bad Times at the El Royale”) in the titular role and is directed by Kasi Lemmons. “Doctor Sleep” — Nov. 8 The direct sequel to “The Shining,” Ewan McGregor plays Dan Torrance who was initially introduced to us as a child in the first film. Now an adult and decades removed from the horrors which took place at the Overlook Hotel, he struggles with alcoholism and psychic powers that have haunted him his whole life. Sharing this ability with countless others in the world, a teenager who shares the gift known as the ‘shine’ comes to Torrance needing help to fight against the True Knot — a sinister group that feeds off of the ‘shine’ of others in a quest to sustain immortality. “Doctor Sleep” is written and directed by “The Haunting on Hill House” creator Mike Flanagan. “Star Wars: Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker” — Dec. 20 A film which needs no introduction or set up, what’s come to be known as the Skywalker saga will come to an end. In the ninth film of the “Star Wars”
COURTESY OF NPR
Lizzo returns to Madison this October after her most recent album peaked at sixth on the U.S. charts. franchise and third of the current trilogy, the Resistance will face the First Order one more time. The long-standing conflict between the Jedi and Sith will culminate with our hero and last Jedi, Rey, and the sadistic Supreme Leader Kylo Ren facing one another, as well as their own inner demons. J.J. Abrams returns to the director’s chair, having helmed the “Episode VII – The Force Awakens.” Tel ev i s i o n /St re a m i ng Services: “Saturday Night Live” — premieres Sept. 28 Season 45 of NBC’s legendary live sketch comedy show promises to be as relevant and controversial as ever with the
current slew of hot-button subjects present in American society. With the election next year and campaigns in full swing, we are sure to have our fair share of social media breaking impersonations from the talented cast, which includes Kenan Thompson, entering his sixteenth year as the longesttenured cast member in show history. Woody Harrelson will host the season premiere with musical guest Billie Eilish. “Supernatural” — premieres Oct. 10 In following the adventures of the Winchester Brothers, we’ve seen them battle monsters, angels, demons and even each other. Dean and Sam have always stood in the way of apocalyptic level destruction and will do so, again, one more time. Series stars Jensen Ackles and Jared Padalecki have been the only actors to appear in every episode. The fifteenth and final season of “Supernatural” will air Thursdays at 7 p.m. CST on the CW. “The Mandalorian” — premieres Nov. 12 As one of the first shows to be released under the new Disney+ streaming service available later this fall, “The Mandalorian” will also be the first live-action television show set within the “Star Wars” universe. Created by “Iron Man” and “The Lion King” director Jon Favreau, the show is set five years after the events of “Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi” and follows a lone Mandalorian bounty hunter across the galaxy beyond the New Republic. “The Mandalorian” will star Pedro Pascal (“Narcos,” “Game of Thrones”) as the titular character. Plays/Musicals: “Evil Dead The Musical” — Sept. 12-29 at Mitchell Theatre Based on the iconic horrorcomedy trilogy created by Sam Raimi, Mitchell Theatre plays host to a production of “Evil Dead The Musical.” Accompanying the music is the gore and blood mixed with the laughs that the series is known for. Originally a product from the mind of George Reinblatt, this University Theatre production is directed by Jace Nichols with musical direction by Erin McConnell. “Clybourne Park” — Nov. 14-24 at Mitchell Theatre A University Theatre pro-
duction of the Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award winning play, the story is set first in 1959 and then 50 years later using the same house as a setting for a tale about community and race relations. Sure to invoke plenty of thoughts about the modern political climate in this country, “Clybourne Park” is helmed by professional guest director Michael Cotey. Concerts: Lizzo — Oct. 10 Mega-popular singer and rapper Lizzo returns to Madison with a set at The Sylvee located off of East Washington Avenue. Also performing will be Ari Lennox and DJ Sophia Eris. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the show begins at 8 p.m. New Found Glory — Nov. 8 Iconic pop punk band New Found Glory is set to fire up Madison just as the temperature will begin to turn cold outside. What better time to head indoors for a show at the Majestic? Also playing will be Hawthorne Heights and Jetty Bones. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the show begins at 7:30 p.m. Festivals: Madison World Music Festival — Sept. 13 and 14 This two-day festival will feature a beautiful array of music from around the world. Featuring sounds of countries like Italy, Peru and Chad, those that attend will be able to see acts at two locations. The Memorial Union Terrace will be the location for the first day of the festival, followed by the Willy Street Fair on the second with a nightly performance back at Memorial Union. Cost: free UW & Madison Metropolitan Jazz Festival — Dec. 7 The newly built Hamel Music Center will play host to an all-day music festival featuring the city and campus’ best jazz acts. Beginning in the morning, the festival runs all day until 3 p.m. when a final performance will take place, located at the Mead Witter Foundation Concert Hall. Cost: Free
opinion dailycardinal.com
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Study, Sleep, Repeat: Beat the College Slog potentially places pressure on students to fit (or exceed) this number. Every student is different — and finding a balance between coursework and other responsibilities is a skill. Check out any available syllabi or professor/TA resources before dictating your entire schedule around that class that you aren’t quite sure you can handle. If you have concerns, chat with your teacher or any friends that may have previously taken the class to determine what to expect and make a decision from there. There is no shame in dropping classes!
GRAPHIC BY MAX HOMSTAD
By Sam Jones and Kavitha Babu OPINION EDITORS
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h yes, a new academic school year. Marked by frantically rearranging schedules, squeezing in time for friends before classes pick up and stocking a new regimen of professors, TAs and advisors, this time of the year impacts many students differently. Some are exhilarated by the prospect, while others become debilitated with anxiety and fear at the thought of re-entering a zombie-like state of juggling responsibilities. Either way, it’s coming, so we may as well prepare ourselves — in terms of our mental health, personal expectations and finding a balance — in order for this semester to be considered a triumph as it closes. It is no question that college students like ourselves face an arsenal of stressors, many of which we are not predisposed to. From rigorous courses, arranging work schedules, managing student organization duties and everything in between, the nature of being a college student is demanding and is sure to take a toll. Just look at the data: Over the past 25 years, nearly three-quarters of college students nationwide worked while enrolled in classes; 40 percent had over 30 hour work weeks. Out of UW students, nearly half of 2018 bachelor’s degree earners did research while at UW. Over a quarter earned academic credit through workplace experience. In 2018, around 45 percent of the students surveyed by the National College Health Assessment reported that they only got enough sleep to feel rested in the morning less than half of the time. The NCHA also recognized some factors that students felt impacted their academic performance substantially: stress (35.3 percent), anxiety (28 percent), sleep difficulties (23.5 percent), depression (19.8 percent), and work (15.9 percent).
This isn’t even to consider the additional stressors for students belonging to targeted minority groups, such as first generation college students (of which 17 percent of the class of 2020 is comprised of), low-income folks, and those who previously recognized a need for supplementary support for mental health reasons, differing abilities or otherwise.
Figures such as these don’t come as a surprise when studies show that suicide is the leading cause of death among college and university students in the United States. Right here at home, 21 percent of students screened positive for depression, 16 percent for anxiety, and 9 percent had experienced suicide ideation at some point among the study’s duration, according to UW’s healthy minds study. It’s clear that many college students struggle with their mental health — whether this takes form as a diagnosable condition, a need for a lifestyle change or a challenging adjustment — so why is there still such a taboo surrounding it? Despite recent progress that has been made to normalize mental illnesses, through the work of local and national politicians, campus policies and advocacy by health organizations, there is an evident need for further work to be done. Anxiety, depression and other mental health issues are very real struggles some students are forced to confront every day. The naivety of “just be happy” or “don’t be nervous” remarks show the everpresent lack of understanding and common oversimplifications when it comes to mental health. Often leading to a reluctance for individuals to seek help or for the public to take mental health problems seriously, college students must tackle yet another challenge in a time where they shouldn’t have to worry about the validity of their difficult and complex situations. This is not to say that all is dismal, however — University Health Services’ mental health department is experiencing rising usage among students. But due to limits on free resources for students and other, oftentimes financial, barriers, this resource can only go so far and reach so many students effectively. Along with this, there are societal standards and expectations we as college students (knowingly or unknowingly) hold ourselves to, which ultimately put additional strain on our capacity to manage stress. While it is unclear what factors tangibly contribute to each individual student’s stress, it is exceedingly evident that there is a presence of a campus, and nation-wide, epidemic. We must counter it with healthy habits, positive messaging regarding seeking help and a less toxic work/school/life balance. Course load UW first-through-third year students average enrollment of 14.4 credits in a given fall semester,
Work Working while in school is oftentimes a necessity for many students, whether it’s to pay for books and tuition or to contribute to their savings for post-graduation. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, college students in the United States spend two to three hours of their average weekday working, while only spending three to five hours in class, studying and other such educational activities. Although the numbers may seem striking to some, in that only an hour differentiates time spent for school and work, it’s also the grave reality of affording higher education. It’s important to never overwork yourself during the school-week in order to keep a healthy mind, as every therapist always says. If it’s financially feasible, try a campus job where hours are usually limited to around ten per week. This can help to find that balance between work, school and building relationships. However, if this is not
the case, then try having an open conversation with your supervisor about the importance of school. You could also choose to take more online courses during the semester to enhance your flexibility to work and study. Extracurricular Involvement We have over 1,000 student organizations here on campus, with interests ranging from ecologically-minded advocacy to political activism to religious and spiritual communities. While a study from 2010 found that undergraduates involved in such student activities do not have lower GPAs from students who fill their time in other ways, the NCHA did find that approximately ten percent of students felt that participation in extracurriculars impacted their schoolwork. As you stroll through the crowded Org Fair to find a new club, or even reconsider your involvement in a club you currently participate in, make sure that there are clear expectations regarding your time and energy spent on the organization. As integral as such activities can be to your college experience, you are still here to get a degree and better yourself, which is hard to do if you spend all of your time making flyers and planning cool studentoriented events! Social Life As a university that prides itself on its social culture (for better or for worse) it can be tricky making and maintaining those super awesome “college friends” you hear about. One of our favorite ways to trou-
bleshoot this moral dilemma is by planning your social time into tasks you already need to be doing. For example, you need to eat, so why not make it a dinner party? You need to study — bring snacks, play some music and spread out at a park or on the Terrace. If this isn’t feasible, effective communication with your friends can change the vibe from your loved ones feeling a sense of neglect or apathy, to being supportive of your mental health and personal needs. Although these tips are not an end-all solution to the woes of college life, the most important thing is to take care of yourself as this academic year begins. The bottom line is, if you are struggling, talk to someone — be it a parent, best friend or trusted TA. There is no shame in seeking professional help. As one may go to a doctor to keep up their physical health, speaking to a psychiatrist or therapist is a way to keep your mind healthy. Mental health must be taken seriously, in light of the lingering stigma. By supporting one another on campus and using each other as resources, we can all begin to thrive in one of America’s best college towns. Sam is a junior studying journalism, with certificates in development economics and environmental studies, Kavitha is a junior sudying political science and sociology, with a certificate in educational policy. What are your thoughts on this upcoming school year and mental health? Send all comments to opinion@dailycardinal.com
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Fall Welcome Back Issue 2019
Incoming freshman blissfully unsure all her hopes for upcoming year to be ruthlessly crushed by inevitable By Nick Rawling STAFF WRITER
18-year-old Jillian Rollins has high expectations for her first year at UW-Madison. Although she’s a bit of a home-body, she’s excited to move into her dorm room: “I’m going to decorate my walls with cute little lights, and I’m lofting my bed to make space for a futon,” she told us. When asked if she was worried about having to share a bathroom with 30 other girls she told me she was “sure it will be fine.” Little does she know that later this semester she’s going to wake up at 2:00 a.m. to pee and ram her
head on the ceiling for the third time that week only to find that literally every single toilet is already full of shit upon arriving to the little girls’ room. And there’s no chance she’s going to get anything to stick to the walls in Sellery. Regardless of her living space, Jillian made it clear that her number one priority will be succeeding in her classes: “I want to be a doctor, so I decided to take Calc 2 and Chemistry. I’ve been told those are extremely hard classes, but I got straight As when I was in high school, so I’m sure it’s nothing I can’t handle.” However,
“Cardinal-Scopes” By Haley Bills ALMANAC EDITOR
Virgo (August 23 September 22) Lucky you! Somehow, Venus took Mercury’s coveted title of the “closest planet to the sun.” This seemingly impossible event occurring during Virgo season must mean that it’s time for you to achieve your life’s dream. Don’t quit your day job, but if Venus can do THAT, finally mastering the science behind meal prep might not be too far-fetched. Libra (September 23 October 22) The Big Dipper’s rebellion against the North Star is really heating up, and this will greatly affect your sense of self. But, an identity crisis may be just what you need. Just know that there is celestial reasoning behind your possible urge to try a wild new hairstyle, to drive around the same traffic circle several times or to change your name and flee the country. Scorpio (October 23 November 21) It has been confirmed by none other than Pluto herself that “a storm’s a brewin...” within your heart. Though it is unclear whether that means love or hate, it is important that you embrace your passion this moon cycle. Who knows? Maybe you will finally realize your enthusiasm for cosplay or your fury towards former King Rudolph I of Germany. Sagittarius (November 22 - December 21) Meteor showers near Neptune can only mean bad news for you: your close friends and family will deceive you. Unless... Capricorn (December 22 - January 19) To make a long story short, Corona Borealis is at odds
with Orion. As a result, you will not only be surrounded by electric energy, but it will run through your veins. For you, this could be a blessing in disguise. Channel the spirit of the Greek god of the sky and controller of lightning, Zeus. Preserve this energy through October, and you may just have the best, most terrifying, Halloween costume. Aquarius (January 20 February 18) After years of investigation and experimentation, the stars have finally published the data from their research study. Though vague, their main finding is astonishing: people are, in fact, wrong about you. Pisces (February 19 March 20) Well, well, well. If it isn’t the most-wanted sign in the solar system. The stars have been talking, and they are disappointed. Get back in their good graces by purchasing a telescope, or at the very least, by pointing at the Big Dipper every night. Aries (March 21 - April 19) Your life has been lacking excitement, and it’s time to take a break from your monotonous day-to-day activities. Let down your hair by dusting off the ol’ Easy Bake Oven or by becoming TikTok famous. Taurus (April 20 - May 20) Don’t go barking up the wrong tree, especially as Centaurus finishes its ambitious quest across the Milky Way. The stars can guarantee your safety only after your house is boarded up and stocked with nonperishable goods. To make the best of it, consider purchasing a Hulu membership. After all, you will surely exhaust Netflix’s selection during your many weeks of hiding.
by December, Jillian will definitely be changing her major to French or Psychology after she has to explain to her parents through snot and tears how she got straight Cs even though she pulled nearly three all-nighters a week studying integrals and intermolecular forces. But that’s not to say she wasn’t on Langdon Street every weekend. And while Jillian’s relationship with her roommate is certain to turn sour when she is too mentally drained to perform basic administrative tasks like doing dishes, taking out the trash, or cleaning the ketchup
she just spilled on her futon, she anticipates making a bunch of new friends. “Maybe I’ll even find a boyfriend,” she mused. Little does she know that the closest she’ll come to love this school year is some 20-year-old finance major named Connor or Dylan slapping her ass at a frat party without permission. On the bright side, Jillian is sure to learn a lesson this year more valuable than anything on her professors’ illegible powerpoints: life is nothing but misery and suffering until we inevitably turn back into dust.
Gemini (May 21 - June 20) It’s not your fault that you’re the most hated astronomical sign. But the stars claim its time to act boldly in order to finally gain some respect for yourself. In order to do so, consider resurrecting Mufasa from “The Lion King,” finding a way to get the movie “Trolls” back on Netflix, or eradicating climate change.
Cancer (June 21 - July 22) It is time to become more in touch with nature. Start small by printing a coloring page depicting your favorite landscape or buying an artificial succulent. But if you’re really up for a challenge, you could stand in the rain without an umbrella or hold the tree pose for an extended period of time.
GRAPHIC BY HALEY BILLS
A traumitzed Jillian giving up. Leo (July 23 - August 22) Did you know that a cat has nine lives? Being a Leo, the astrological sign represented by the mythological Nemean lion, I would take this fact to heart when deciding if that piece of fruit on your plate is edible or if that container is really microwave safe.
We’re always looking for more funny and insightful writers with fresh takes on topics ranging from the UW campus to international news. We accept and encourage creative submissions as well! Any and all submissions are more than welcome. You can send your submissions and any comments or questions to almanac@dailycardinal.com. All articles featured in Almanac are creative, satirical and/or entirely fictional pieces. They are fully intended as such and should not be taken seriously as news.
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