BEST OF DAVIS 2016
the California Aggie
SERVING THE UC DAVIS CAMPUS AND COMMUNITY SINCE 1915
R educe. R euse. R ec y cle Th e Aggie .
VOLUME 134, ISSUE 2 | TUESDAY, MAY 3, 2016
BEST OF DAVIS 2016
2 | TUESDAY, MAY 3, 2016
[ DUTCH BROS. COFFEE ]
BEST COFFEE
BECCA RIDGE / AGGIE
1
THE CALIFORNIA AGGIE
DUTCH BROS 57%
2 MISHKA’S CAFE 27% 3 TEMPLE COFFEE 16% “ With items such as ‘The Kicker,’ ‘The Caramelizer’ and ‘The Annihilator,’ you know your taste buds are in for a ride. ”
When one thinks of a café, the usual image is warm lighting, jazz music, students studying for classes and a desperately European-looking interior design. This year’s best coffee went to the place that boldly challenges all café preconceptions: Dutch Bros. Instead of a sit-down-and-study location, it stands as a 24-hour drive-thru that mostly serves commuters, travelers, bikers and even pedestrians. Rather than employees who are only occasionally sociable, Dutch Bros actively encourages its staff to be casual, friendly and as social as possible. In addition, they crank up their energy and speed with high-powered music to help staffers remain in a state of happy productivity. But the most important difference of all is their drinks. With items such as “The Kicker,” “The Caramelizer” and “The Annihilator,” you know your taste buds are in for a ride. “[It isn’t unnatural] for a customer to ask for a 22nd shot of espresso,” said Sara Seeley, a Dutch Bros employee.
Located on 980 Olive Drive, Dutch Bros is right next to the entrance to Highway 80, putting it in a hotspot for car commuters between Sacramento and San Francisco. The staff is especially active during the mornings, when they are met with lines of carpoolers waiting to get their first cup of morning coffee. “[The business model] can either make or break a company,” Seeley said. The Dutch Bros company donates funds to fight amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and muscular dystrophy and supports groups such as the American Cancer Society and the Boys and Girls Clubs of America. The local Dutch Bros location does its own charity as well, including occasional day fundraisers. By striving for convenience, character and caffeinated craftsmanship, Dutch Bros takes the espresso express into number one best coffee in Davis. - EVAN LILLEY
[ TxMx Grill ]
BEST SANDWICH
[ PLUTO’S ]
BEST COHO FOOD
NADIA DORIS / AGGIE
1
PLUTO’S 39%
1
2 ZIA’S DELICATESSEN 35%
2
3 MR. PICKLE’S 26% For students craving classic salads and sandwiches in between classes, Pluto’s is the place to go. Located on First Street, Pluto’s is this year’s winner of best sandwich in Davis. “We’re most popularly known because [...] our food is fresh — it’s cooked everyday and the portions are very good for the cost,” Pluto’s manager Antonio Robles said. According to Robles, the most popular sandwich is “The Big Bang Lunar Dip,” a half-pound steak sandwich served with barbecue sauce and provolone cheese.
3 The restaurant is vegetarian-friendly and is home to the “Mozzarella Moon” sandwich and various salads. Customers also have the option to build their own salads and sandwiches. Pluto’s is open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., convenient for hungry students. However, Robles said the restaurant is most busy in both the afternoon and dinner time, so make sure to plan ahead if you’re feeling a sandwich craving coming on!
BEST BREAKFAST
- FATIMA SIDDIQUI
1
“ ...the prices make TxMx the cheapest place FICKLE PICKLE 25% to get delicious tasting COOKS/CROUTONS 8% Mexican food in Davis. ”
TxMx 63%
The ASUCD Coffee House (CoHo) is easily the most popular place on-campus to grab a quick snack and drink. At the CoHo, students can choose from a variety of foods, ranging from a classic slice of cheese pizza to a hot bowl of pho. However, it is TxMx Grill, serving Mexican food dishes like carnitas tacos and chicken quesadillas, that is favored best among hungry students. “I personally enjoy the the tacos at TxMx Grill,” said Jay Patel, a second-year biochemistry major. “It’s convenient to have these places on campus and it’s great that the price is reasonable.” TxMx, known for having the longest line in the CoHo due to its popularity, is students’ favorite for many reasons. For
CREPEVILLE 57%
2 BLACK BEAR 23% 3 DELTA OF VENUS 20%
DIANA LI / AGGIE
[ CREPEVILLE ]
ROSIE SCHWARZ / AGGIE
Breakfast is supposedly the most important meal of the day, but it’s hard to make food ‘important’ if it doesn’t taste good. That’s why this year’s best breakfast goes to Crepeville. Crepeville is located on Third Street in Downtown Davis, and, as the name implies, it serves a wide variety of crepes. Each entree offers an array of fresh ingredients that make each crepe stand out. As many Davis residents can attest, it can get hot in the spring. So why not treat yourself to a crepe that is both sweet and refreshing? “I like to get the fresh strawberry crepe,” said
one, the prices make TxMx the cheapest place to get delicious tasting Mexican food in Davis, with the price of a “street” taco with meat available for as little as $1.40. The taste is another reason why most students opt to wait in the TxMx line. “I definitely would go for the tacos with carnitas because they are super flavorful and pretty cheap,” said Mia Stone, fourth-year civil engineering major. TxMx Grill offers a wide variety of Mexican-American fare. With a host of burritos, quesadillas, tacos and nachos to choose from, it shouldn’t be difficult to find something to your liking. - KRISHAN MITHAL & SAMANTHA BASS
“ Each entree offers an array of
fresh ingredients that make each crepe stand out. ”
Theresa Geib, a third-year ecological management and restoration major. Indeed, the strawberry crepe has some delicious flavors to counter the heat, such as brown sugar, cinnamon, a sweet strawberry sauce and freshly cut strawberries. “I first went to Crepeville when I came to tour campus,” Geib said. “It was around Picnic Day, so it was almost four years to this day.” Crepeville is open every day from 7 a.m. until 11 p.m., so it’s never too late or too early to get a great breakfast meal at Crepeville. - MICHAEL CLOGSTON & RYAN DOWNER
BEST OF DAVIS NEWSPAPER DESIGNED BY ASHLEY PAE | HEE-AH YOO | CAMILLA DAYRIT | HANNAH LEE
BEST OF DAVIS 2016
THE CALIFORNIA AGGIE
TUESDAY, MAY 3, 2016 | 3
BEST PIZZA
BEST BURGER
[ BURGERS AND BREW ]
HANNAH WODRICH / AGGIE
BRIANA NGO / AGGIE
1
1
BURGERS AND BREW 68%
WOODSTOCK’S 46%
2 IN N OUT 20%
2 BLAZE 36%
3 FROGGY’S 12%
3 UNCLE VITO’S 18%
“[Burgers and Brew] stands for what people want and what makes them happy.” The award-winning restaurant Burgers and Brew has won the hearts of UC Davis students for this year’s best burger in Davis. Located on Third Street, Burgers and Brew is always filled to the brim with both Davis residents and students gathering over a good burger and beer. “[Burgers and Brew] stands for what people want and what makes them happy,” said Marlon Vargas, the Burgers and Brew restaurant manager. “We’re a hightraffic spot that gets lots of recommendations from locals because everyone who lives here comes here.” Vargas has been with the restaurant since its 2007 opening in Downtown Davis, and he pointed to the quality of the food and service as reasons for its popularity. The restaurant’s employees follow
specific customer service guidelines in order to maintain the lively atmosphere that Burgers and Brew is known for. Among the delicious burger choices are the Portobello burger, Buffalo burger and the Bacon and Jalapeño cheeseburger. And, despite the restaurant’s title, Burgers and Brew offers specialty sandwiches like the Philly Cheese Steak, Turkey Avocado Melt and a classic BLT. It even offers hot dogs and fish and chips for those who aren’t in the mood for a burger. “You can meet everyone in town if you come into the restaurant because of the tight-knit community and interaction within the community that [the city of Davis] stands for,” Vargas said. - AMANDA CRUZ
BEST CHINESE RESTAURANT
[ WOODSTOCK’S ]
For the fourth consecutive year, Woodstock’s Pizza has won “Best Pizza” in Davis. Woodstock’s first opened up its original restaurant in 1977 in Corvallis, Ore. Founder Chuck Woodstock insisted on putting more toppings on his pizzas to set himself apart from other pizzerias. He quickly gained a partner, Mike Chew, who helped him open up the Davis location. They bought a building that was almost 100 years old and remodeled it to become the pizzeria Davis knows and loves. Today, Woodstock’s is known to the Davis community for its cinnamon sugar dessert pizza, “CinnaBread,” as well as its late hours, free WiFi and free drink refills. But when asked what makes Woodstock’s pizzas truly special, Ted Parks, general manager of the Davis location, was quick to admit that “the most unique thing is that [Woodstock’s] folds the sauce into the crust.”
1
“The most unique thing is that [Woodstock’s] folds the sauce into the crust.” “Some of the crazier pizzas are becoming more popular,” Parks said. “Our new thing is a summer and winter menu,” Parks said. These include the “Kicking Carnitas” and “Barbecue Bird” options. The pizzeria is always adding tasty creations for the Davis community to try. Woodstock’s will be offering new pizza and sandwich selections with the changing seasons. However, the food itself is not the only thing that makes Woodstock’s a favorite among the masses. The restaurant also hosts themed late nights, such as “Turntable Tuesdays,” “Trivia Thursdays” and “Live Music Saturdays.” While all of this is popular among families and students alike, Woodstock’s also serves the university by delivering to campus locations, like the dorms. As a proud sponsor of the UC Davis athletic programs, they often cater university fundraisers and events. - HAYLEY PROKOS & SANDY CHEN
THE DUMPLING HOUSE 54%
2 FOUR SEASONS 35% 3 HUNAN 11%
[ THE DUMPLING HOUSE ]
ASHLEY LUGO / AGGIE
1
When you can’t decide what to eat for dinner, Chinese food is always a great go-to — especially since Davis offers a plethora of options. However, UC Davis students have made their preference known. Located in the heart of downtown on E Street, this year’s winner of the best Chinese restaurant of Davis is The Dumpling House, also popularly known among Davis locals as D-House, Dump House and more. Owned by manager Linda Liu, The Dumpling House opened in 2010 and has since been a fan favorite. Liu has been in the restaurant business for over 30 years and successfully created a laidback atmosphere with quality customer service and deli-
cious food in her Davis location. The Dumpling House is open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Some customer favorites include the hand-wrapped dumplings, potstickers, wontons and even London-style fish and chips. Jamie Fukui, a fourth-year managerial economics major (and self-proclaimed Chinese food aficionado), claims that eating at The Dumpling House is a euphoric experience. “I’ve never known true happiness until eating my first dumpling [at The Dumpling House],” Fukui said. “I absolutely love it.”
- NICKIE SARMIENTO
BEST BURRITO
GUADALAJARA 40%
2 EL BURRITO 37% 3 DOS COYOTES 23% It’s 8 p.m. You’ve given up on studying for the night, and you’re hungry. You look in the fridge only to realize you haven’t been grocery shopping in a week. Your roommate looks at you and says, “Guads?” Late night Mexican food is a Davis tradition. Next time you’ve got a hankering, skip downtown and head straight to North Davis to test out Taqueria Guadalajara’s (or, as most of Davis knows it, “Guads”) burritos. They’re located in the Save Mart shopping center conveniently next to the P and Q line Unitrans bus stops. This is the second year in a row that Taqueria Guadalajara has won best burrito, and the reason is clear: the taste is un-
beatable. Along with its location in South Davis on Mace Boulevard., Guadalajara’s North Davis location has been open since 1999 and always cooks with the freshest ingredients. “[Our secret ingredient is] love — we enjoy what we do,” said Rigo Hernandez, Guadalajara’s manager and the owner’s son. “[And] the cooks, they enjoy what they do. We have fun working, and that translates into our food.” A regular burrito at Guads is $6.49, so head on down, bring your roomie and taste why Guads has been voted the best burrito in Davis two years running. - ALEX GUZMAN
CHELBERT DAI / AGGIE
[ TAQUERIA GUADALAJARA ]
“ This is the second year in a row that Taqueria Guadalajara has won best burrito, and the reason is clear: the taste is unbeatable. ”
BEST OF DAVIS 2016
4 | TUESDAY, MAY 3, 2016
THE CALIFORNIA AGGIE
1 MIKUNI 58%
BEST JAPANESE FOOD
2 NAMI’S 28%
[MIKUNI]
3 ZEN TORO 14% With a four-star rating and over 400 reviews on Yelp, it’s no wonder that Mikuni Sushi and Japanese Restaurant was voted Davis’ best Japanese restaurant. Located on First Street, Mikuni offers versatile food options, fresh fish and great customer service. “Everyone at Mikuni is very welcoming and kind,” said Mikuni hostess Heidi Wickham. “The staff is eager to not only help each other, but also each individual customer.” According to Wickham, one of Mikuni’s most popular rolls is the barbecue tuna with their signature red sauce, which has a spicy, barbecue taste. “I am obsessed with the barbecue tuna, and I know a bunch of people
ANG E L I C A DAYANDAN T E / AGGI E
1
-JENNIFER DUONG & BETTY WU
THAI CANTEEN 56%
MONICA CHAN / AGGIE
BEST THAI FOOD
2 SOPHIA’S THAI KITCHEN 26% 3 TASTE OF THAI 18% There is no shortage of Thai restaurants in Downtown Davis, but Thai Canteen has captured the title of “Best Thai Restaurant” this year. Thai Canteen is a student-oriented establishment that serves lunch, dinner and even late-night munchies at an affordable price. Students can easily stop by the restaurant, located on E Street, for a refreshing Thai tea or specialties such as pork belly and duck. One thing that differentiates Thai Canteen from other Thai restaurants is its convenient design. “You come in, you order at the counter, we send you off to a table and servers bring food to you,” said Thai Canteen manager Peter Sriboonreuang. “Everything else from there is self-serve [including] water [and] spices.” Customers can choose from a variety of dishes, ranging from rice plates to noodles
and snacks. The prices are reasonably low, and, since the restaurant has received the one dollar sign on Yelp, it has become a college-student staple. The restaurant is currently partnered with Joy Run, an app that allows students to order food directly on their phone and have it delivered to them by friends or other app users. This partnership saves students a trip downtown and makes ordering even more convenient. Whether eating out with a big group of friends or sharing a one-on-one meal, Thai Canteen has seating for the occasion. During lunch and dinner hours, the atmosphere is relaxed and social, usually buzzing with conversation. “Bistro style ordering makes it a convenient place to eat with a group of friends,” said Kelly Wang, a second-year biology major. - JU LIA W U & VERONICA VARGO
BEST INDIAN CUISINE
BRIAN L A N D RY / AGGI E
RAJA’S TANDOOR 60%
THAI CANTEEN
]
[ CREAM ] BEST DESSERT 1
2 KATHMANDU KITCHEN 25%
CREAM 39%
2 YOLO BERRY 38%
3 YETI 15% When students are near the Social Sciences and Humanities building, they may catch the faint scent of curry. This belongs to 2016’s best Indian cuisine in Davis, Raja’s Tandoor, located just off campus at 207 Third St. The restaurant offers a lunch buffet Monday through Saturday and serves dinner seven days a week. The all-you-can-eat buffet runs from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and costs only $5.95, while takeout and dine-in entrees cost between $5 and $7. “The food is very good, affordable and tasty,” said Pam Panomchai, a third-year managerial economics major. “I also think the chai tea is great. The owner is really nice as
[
LUCY KNOWLES / AGGIE
[ RAJA’S TANDOOR ] 1
love that dish. I always get the barbecue tuna with red sauce,” Wickham said. “The rolls are obviously very good! I really like the Marilyn MonRoll.” Aside from interesting sushi roll choices and an infusion of different sauces with traditional Japanese dishes, Mikuni also offers bentos, donburi and ramen. The restaurant is also a popular choice when it comes to birthday dinners, as its “wheel of birthday-fortune” gives birthday goers a chance to win prizes ranging from chopsticks to a Mikuni t-shirt. The quality service and variety of delicious choices bumps Mikuni to the top spot for Davis Japanese food.
well.” Dishes include chicken curry, chicken tikka masala and chicken vindaloo. Raja’s also offers vegan and vegetarian items such as cauliflower, red potatoes and veggie tikka masala. Signs outside the restaurant show a caricature version of Raja’s owner, Taranbir Chowdhury, smiling and waving to all who pass. Chowdhury’s hospitality is well known in the town of Davis, so customers can always expect a handshake or nice hug from him when coming in for some of the cheapest and best Indian food in Davis. - LINDSAY YIM
3 DAVIS CREAMERY 23% Whether you’re craving dessert while out with friends, family or a significant other, there is one place you can count on to impress anyone: CREAM, this year’s best dessert in Davis. Located on F Street, CREAM, which stands for “Cookies Rule Everything Around Me”, is known for its ice cream sandwiches. There are many flavors to choose from to create your masterpiece, meaning a follow-up trip is inevitable. “It’s my favorite place to get ice cream in Davis and I just really like the flavors,” said Justin Carleton, a third-year managerial economics major. People often stop by CREAM in the
“It’s my favorite place to get ice cream in Davis and I just really like the flavors.” evening as the perfect way to end their nights, after a nice dinner or a few wellspent hours in the Regal Cinemas Davis Holiday 6 across the way. “I took this girl out on a date one time to watch a movie and afterward we walked across the street and shared ice cream,” Carleton said. “It really sealed the deal.” CREAM takes students’ bank accounts into consideration when it comes to pricing; ice cream sandwiches cost just $3. Next time you find yourself on the hunt for something sweet, look no further than Davis’ own CREAM. - MEGAN TOY & SARA WILLIAMS
BEST OF DAVIS 2016
THE CALIFORNIA AGGIE
TUESDAY, MAY 3, 2016| 5
BEST LATE-NIGHT SNACK
1 IN-N-OUT
[IN-N-OUT ]
2 TAQUERIA
55%
EL BURRITO 28%
3
UC DAVIS DINING COMMONS 17%
CHAR LES MIIN / AGGIE
Cooking after a long day can often prove to be a recipe for disaster, especially after 18-hour long study sessions at Shields. When unleashing your inner Julia Child is not a nighttime possibility, takeout helps to keep hunger satisfied without having to cook. This is why late-night snacks are vital for UC Davis students’ existence, especially when it’s Davis’ favorite midnight bistro for the second year in a row: In-N-Out Burger. Quite obviously, In-N-Out is the reigning late-night champion for a reason: students can order five-star burgers that will not empty their wallets. A double-
double and a side of fries will only set restaurantgoers back $5.51 (tax included). Some students, like second-year animal science major Catherine Reyna, enjoy In-N-Out due to its available seating for large parties. “[My friends and I] can usually find space to fit six of us,” Reyna said. “It’s not a weekly thing, more of whenever [we] are craving a burger.” In-N-Out’s weekend hours might be responsible for the fast food chain’s popularity in the crowded college-town of Davis. They close their doors on Fridays and Saturdays at 1:30 a.m. — long after the hours of “adult responsibilities” have come to an end.
BEST BOBA “An ice-cold boba tea is the perfect complement for those warm Davis days filled with lying on the Quad lawn and soaking up the sunshine.”
- KATIE DEVORE
BEST BAR
[
FROGGY’S
]
AMY HOA N G / AGGIE
1
FROGGY’S 39%
“The Blow Job shot at Froggy’s is a classic.”
2 UNIVERSITY OF BEER 31%
[SHARETEA ]
3 DEVERE’S IRISH PUB 30% The bars are one of the many factors that make nightlife in Davis so fun. Davis is known to have some of the most entertaining bars, but one rose above the rest: Froggy’s Bar and Grill. On a Thursday night, Froggy’s can be seen with a long line of people just itching to get inside. As one of the most popular bars in Davis, Froggy’s has created many memories for students. “I went for my 21st birthday, I don’t remember much,” said third-year sociology major Andrew Vieira. “But I think the bartender gave my friends a Sharpie to draw on me.”
Not only is the environment fun and casual, but the staff sets Froggy’s apart from other bars. Froggy’s has some of the more interesting drinks in Davis, like “the Right Hook” and “the Blow Job shot.” “The Blow Job shot at Froggy’s is a classic,” said third-year biomedical engineering Niket Karode. “It was an amazing time. I try to make it to Froggy’s every time I go out.” Froggy’s has all the qualities of a great bar, making it a go-to weekend night destination in Davis. If you get a chance, hop on down to Froggy’s and try one of the specialty drinks — you won’t be disappointed. - MICH AE L M ARTI NEZ
BEST DRINK SPECIAL
[3 & U ] RD
NICK I PA DA R / AGGI E
1
3RD AND U CAFÉ 40%
2 BISTRO 33 32% 3 DEVERE’S IRISH PUB 28% 3rd and U Cafe, located just off campus on Third Stre e t and Unive rsity Avenue, is a staple for Da vis’ 21+ crowd, making it the perfect fit for this ye ar ’s be st drink spe c ial. The two pints for $6.50 deal keeps a college stu dent ’s wallet happy. An outdoor patio and large flat screen televisions make for an inviting and social environment in the heart of Downtown Davis. With about 10 beers on tap at a time, this spot is great for big games and making new friends. “3rd and U holds all
that a college student desires. Good beer, good friends, good deals and good vibes,” said Taylor King, a fourth-year human development major. At any time, both un dergraduate and graduate students can be seen taking up residence at the 3rd and U patio. Given the setting and cheap prices, 3rd and U Cafe is the spot for 21-year-olds to go. Offering an incredible menu filled with sandwiches, wraps and burgers, a 3rd & U meal paired with a nice beer will make for a great Friday afternoon. - E T HAN VI CTOR
AMY HOANG / AGGIE
1
SHARETEA 48%
2 TEABO 38% 3 MANDRO AND LAZI COW 14% An ice-cold boba tea is the perfect complement for those warm Davis days filled with lying on the Quad lawn and soaking up the sunshine. This year, ShareTea takes the gold for the best boba in Davis. ShareTea opened in Davis in October 2015, replacing Davis Oshio Cafe. The popular boba shop is located right off campus at 207 Third St., a convenient location for students who want to grab a quick dose of peach green tea before class. ShareTea owner Tony Lei estimates that approximately 95 percent of ShareTea’s customers are students from the university. “I think one of the main reasons the franchise [is doing well] is because of the ingredients that we use,” Lei said. “For example, instead of using syrup for mango green tea, we use mango puree.” The fresh fruit and purees used in ShareTea’s drinks attract customers that keep coming back for more. ShareTea’s number one seller is its Okinawa pearl milk tea, a roasted brown sugar-flavored milk tea with boba pearls. According to Lei, another popular drink (and Lei’s personal favorite) is the kiwi milk tea with ice jelly. Customers often purchase this drink as a cool refresher on hot days. “One of the main reasons [people] like this drink is because everything in it is fresh — [from] fresh kiwi [to] fresh lemon juice,” Lei said. “I think [once people] try ShareTea, they notice the difference in quality.” -ALLIE TSUJI
BEST OF DAVIS 2016
6 | TUESDAY, MAY 3, 2016
BEST PUBLIC ART
THE CALIFORNIA AGGIE
1. EGGHEAD 69% 2. DOG STATUE
(OUTSIDE NATSOULAS GALLERY)
19%
3. BICYCLE STATUE 12%
“I think one of the reasons
[ Eggheads ]
DANIEL TAK / AGGIE
The eggheads have been an iconic part of the UC Davis campus since the beginning of their installation in 1991. As students walk around campus, they’re greeted by the sculptures’ friendly faces, which are a staple of any UC Davis student’s social media account as well as the winner of this year’s “Best Public Art” award. The five egghead displays, created by Robert Arneson, a former UC Davis professor of ceramic sculpture, are located on various parts of campus: “See No Evil/Hear No Evil” at the east
of King Hall, “Eye on Mrak” in front of Mrak Hall, “Bookhead” in front of Shields Library, “Yin & Yang” in front of Wright Hall and “Stargazer” behind North Hall. Each egghead was made from bronze, painted with acrylic paint and designed specifically for the UC Davis campus. “I think one of the reasons why [the eggheads are] more memorable than most campus outdoor sculptures is their accessibility,” said Brittany Royer, a graduate student in art history. “In fact the subject matter of them and how they’re positioned make them accessible.”
Each egghead carries special meaning to the student body, whether it represents campus history or provides an interactive aspect. For example, “Eye on Mrak” symbolizes a power balance between students and administration; the single eye facing Mrak represents the students watching the administration as the egghead’s face looks away in hysterical laughter. “Bookhead” is also popular among students, as it is part of a Aggie tradition to kiss it for good luck before midterms and finals.
MONICA CHAN / AGGIE
KATE SNOWDON / AGGIE
2. IN LECTURE 28% 3. LAWN ON THE QUAD 27%
[ Design of Coffee ]
1. DESIGN OF COFFEE 45% 2. HUMAN SEXUALITY 35%
and West sides of the Quad, are funded through a grant from The California Endowment to promote healthy habits for students. The hammocks receive fresh air and shade from surrounding trees, and their subtle rocking motion and peaceful environment make them the ideal spot for a quick sleep. Make sure to get there early to secure your spot, though; there’s often a line due to their popularity! - RIVA BALLIS & CARLA ARANGO
“I’d definitely recommend for other people to take it, especially if they’re looking for a genuinely enjoyable class to take at school.” All students all looking for that one fun General Education (GE) class to squeeze into our schedules, and this year that class is Chemical Engineering and Materials Science 1: The Design of Coffee (ECM 1), voted the best GE course at UC Davis. Taught by Professors Tonya Kuhl and William Ristenpart, the class was launched as a science and engineering GE in Winter Quarter 2014 as a way of introducing non-major students to chemical engineering. UC Davis is the only UC to offer The Design of Coffee as a class, and, given that the class has no prerequisites, it’s not surprising that the course attracts a diverse array of students from all majors. “I thought about taking the coffee class because it was my last quarter at UC
1. SHIELD’S LIBRARY 73% 2. THE COHO 15% 3. TEMPLE COFFEE ROASTERS 12%
BEST PLACE TO STUDY
ALEXA FONTANILLA / AGGIE
- LINDSAY FLOYD & YVONNE LEONG
3. INTRO TO BEER BREWING 20%
1. HAMMOCKS ON THE QUAD 45%
Between classes, club meetings and study sessions, students often find themselves physically and mentally drained. When it comes to finding a place to destress and regain energy, UC Davis students call the hammocks on the Quad the best place to take a nap. “I love napping in the hammocks because they provide a comfortable, but private, place to take a break from my day,” said Beverly Huey, a thirdyear genetics major. The hammocks, found on the East
According to the Center of Sacramento History, Arneson has been referred to as the “father of the ceramic Funk movement.” Funk art utilizes everyday objects to form confrontational social, economic, and political statements. “They are a commentary on the politics of education systems and how they were being perceived,” Royer said. “They are a play on anti-intellectualism.” Although Arneson passed away in 1992, his beloved eggheads remain a popular part of the UC Davis campus.
BEST GE COURSE
BEST PLACE TO NAP
[ The Hammocks ]
why [the eggheads are] more memorable than most campus outdoor sculptures is their accessibility...”
[ Shield’s Library ]
Davis and I wanted to enjoy something that the school offered specifically,” said Nene Takahashi, a fourth-year neurobiology, physiology and behavior major and current ECM 1 student. “I wanted to take a class that wasn’t too challenging but [...] was genuinely enjoyable.” Takahashi said that the weekly lab allows her to explore engineering in relation to coffee brewing, which is one of her favorite aspects of the course. “Because my class is in the morning, they usually let us brew a cup of coffee first and then we get into the actual lab,” Takahashi said. “I’d definitely recommend for other people to take it, especially if they’re looking for a genuinely enjoyable class to take at school.”
Of all of the coffee shops, nooks and cranniess to study in, Peter J. Shields Library has been chosen as the best place to study in Davis. Shields Library is conveniently located between the Memorial Union and the Silo, so students can easily grab a cup of coffee and head to the library to catch up on work. Shields is home to numerous resources, with plenty of study rooms, computer rooms and thousands of books. “There’s a lot of study space available since there are four floors and a basement, as well as a lot of areas for group study and independent study,” said Crystal Leung, a UC Davis graduate and former employee at Shields Library. “There are also designated floors for quiet study and for louder group study areas de-
- JUNO BHARDWAJ-SHAH
pending on the floor you are on.” Typically, the more stairs students climb, the quieter the study area, with the fourth floor nearly dead silent. For more groupfriendly environments, students can explore the depths of Shields by traveling to the basement or first floor. No matter the kind of study experience a student is looking for, he or she will find it at Shields. With a vast collection of books, articles and journals, Shields does not lack resources for any sort of studying or research. The library hours are online, but should students ever need the extra study time, they should check out the 24-hour study room, which is fully-equipped with outlets and bathrooms. - SAM SOLOMON & BIANCA ANTUNEZ
BEST OF DAVIS 2016
THE CALIFORNIA AGGIE
BEST BIKE SHOP
[ The Bike Barn ] HANNAH WODRICH / AGGIE
1. THE BIKE BARN 52%
“I think that [there
2. B&L BIKE SHOP 35%
is a] convenience factor of it being on campus...”
3. FREEWHEELER BICYCLE CENTER 13%
TUESDAY, MAY 3, 2016 | 7
As a city filled with bikes, it is only fitting that Davis has numerous bike shops to keep its bikers safe. This year, UC Davis’ own on-campus bike shop, the Bike Barn, has been voted the best bike shop in Davis. The barn was built in 1910 and is one of the longest standing buildings at UC Davis. Located between the Silo and Rock Hall, it is easily accessible for the thousands of students who bike oncampus daily. “I think that [there is a] convenience factor of it being on campus,” said David Canzoneri, a fourth-year economics major and business manager for the Bike Barn. “Whether they live on campus or not, a lot of students are biking on-campus.” According to Canzoneri, the shop’s student employees help create a welcoming environment because they can relate to the many students who come in to have their bikes repaired.
“All the employees except for the general manager are students,” Canzoneri said. “It helps to have a familiar friendly face.” According to their website, the barn repairs over 10,000 bikes a year. On top of this, it offers rental bikes and eight full-service repair stands for students to use in between classes. In the coming years, the Bike Barn is hoping to bring back the Bike Garage in the North end of the building to expand their services. The shop caters to students’ needs, never turning down a request to repair a bike. While other bike shops may refuse to work on lower-end, inexpensive bikes, Canzoneri stressed that the Bike Barn always ensures to serve each customer. “One thing that sets us apart from other shops is that there’s not really a job we will turn away,” Canzoneri said. - ALYSSA VANDENBERG
BEST DAY TRIP
1. SAN FRANCISCO 66% 2. LAKE TAHOE 23% 3. NAPA VALLEY 11%
“There are many things, places and people that make San Francisco the best day trip.” Heading west on Interstate 80 from Davis, it only takes a little over an hour to get to the city you’ll leave your heart in and this year’s winner of best day trip: San Francisco. Whether you’re traveling with friends, family or going to get some alone time from the hustle of college, San Francisco has something to offer for everyone looking for a day away. “The best thing about San Francisco
[ San Francisco ]
NICKI PADAR / AGGIE
is its unique culture,” said Nathaniel Copus, a fourth-year history major. “The shopping and food are just the consequence of the cultures within the metropolitan area. You can see the history of the city near the Golden Gate Park or drive down Webster Street just to see the signs written in Japanese.” While you’re in the city, take a trip down to the famous Pier 39 in Fisherman’s Wharf and watch the local sea
BEST METHOD OF TRANSPORTATION
lions while grabbing a bowl of clam chowder. Or maybe, if you’re looking for a great game to watch, head to AT&T Park to see the three-time World Series champion San Francisco Giants play ball. The list goes on — deYoung Museum for any artists, Golden Gate Park for history lovers and Muir Woods for those who want to get lost in the ancient redwoods. And if you’re a chocolate lover, Ghirardelli Square offers a perfect fix to
your post-dinner sweet craving. Even something as simple as relaxing in a park can be taken advantage of in San Francisco; in fact, Dolores Park is right in the heart of the city, ready for visitors to enjoy the vibrant scenery. “There are many things, places, and people that make San Francisco the best day trip,” Copus said. “However, it would take an entire book to talk about that.” - ALAN CASTILLO & GILLIAN ALLEN
BEST PLACE TO BUY GROCERIES
[ Biking ] VENOOS MOSHAYEDI / AGGIE
1. BIKING 83%
DEVIN MCHUGH / AGGIE
2. WALKING & UNITRANS 14%
1. TRADER JOES 71%
3. DRIVING 3%
2. SAFEWAY 20%
Trader Joe’s Joe’s ] [[Trader
3. NUGGET MARKET 9% The UC Davis Transportation and Parking Services (TAPS) auctions off over 800 bikes each year, the United States Bicycling Hall of Fame is right next to campus and the City of Davis town logo is even modeled after a mid-nineteenth century bicycle. It is no secret that Davis is known for its bicycling culture, so it should come as no surprise that, yet again, students have voted biking as the best mode of transportation. Bikes are not only a means of transportation, but they are also a part of Davis’ culture. Students, including thirdyear comparative literature major Christine Chung, ride bikes partially because it is such an ingrained part of being a UC Davis student. “We’re known for our cows and our bikes,” Chung said. “The haphazard bike
roundabouts will always be something someone from Davis has a story about.” Davis is the largest University of California school in terms of acreage, and because everything is so spread out, having a bike is often seen as a necessity. Sometimes — when there are only 10 minute breaks between classes — being without a bike would make getting to a class in the Medical Science building from a class in the Death Star nearly impossible. Bikes and bike amenities, such as bike paths and abundant parkings spots, are everywhere on campus. For students who don’t yet have a bike but want to get in on the craze, the UC Davis Bike Barn is the perfect place to start. - ANNA NESTEL
For Segundo residents, it will come as no surprise that Trader Joe’s was once again voted Davis’ favorite grocery store. Given its convenient location on the corner of Russell Boulevard and Sycamore Lane, Trader Joe’s is a student favorite for purchasing both study snacks and weekly groceries. The University Mall location sells frozen foods, ready-to-eat snacks and small food portions that assist students with the challenges of budgeting and time constraints. For study session pick-me-ups, Trader Joe’s customers can buy coffee, desserts and other sweet treats until 10 p.m. every day of the week.
Trader Joe’s also sells non-dairy milks, gluten-free products and even dairy-free ice creams and sorbets to cater to those with special dietary needs. Customers can treat themselves to free coffee and samples of new products while shopping. “I like [Trader Joe’s] because of the location and the good variety of products,” said Amy Green, a second-year human development major. “They have speciality products that you wouldn’t find in an everyday grocery store, and since I’m vegetarian, that really helps. I also like the free samples.” - CAROLINE STAUDENRAUS
BEST OF DAVIS 2016
8 | TUESDAY, MAY 3, 2016
BEST PLACE TO TAKE A DATE
THE CALIFORNIA AGGIE
BEST PLACE TO TAKE YOUR FAMILY
[ ARBORETUM ] [
ARIE L RO B BINS / AG G IE
1
ARBORETUM 58%
2 FARMERS MARKET 33% 3 BURGERS & BREW 9% With its scenic location just adjacent to campus, the Arboretum is once again Davis’ best date spot. Founded in 1936 with 17 gardens spread over 100 acres, the Arboretum has plenty of space for couples to spend time together. The waterfront and cherry blossoms in the East Asian Collection right behind Mrak Hall is a perfect place for an Aggie couple looking to spend some romantic time together between classes. A couple looking to walk off a dinner at Mikuni cannot find a more beautiful (or closer) walk than under the eucalyptus-covered path in the Australian Collection adjacent to downtown. The first-daters even have prime real estate in the Arboretum’s Mediterranean Collection with its sloping hillsides facing a lagoon, the premier location for asking your date “Why’d you swipe right?” “I feel like there’s always something that you’ll see different,” said Liliana Mendoza, a third-year Native American
“I feel like there’s always something that you’ll see different.”
studies and community and regional development double major. Many take their friends from out of town to the Arboretum as well. “It’s a little pocket of forest area that’s not like most of [Davis],” said Claire Barnett, Mendoza’s friend. “I live in a forest area, so it’s nice to see this.” Not only is the Arboretum a great date destination in Davis because of its aesthetic, it is also affordable (as in free). The Arboretum is a great no-cost alternative to the usual dinner date or a great addition to day-date when you’re going to spend money elsewhere. Everyone loves not spending money, so why not not spend money with the one you love? If you’re looking for a tranquil, affordable place to enjoy nature, a 90s R&B playlist and the company of your date, look no further than the Arboretum.
- RASHAD HURST
1
FARMERS’ MARKET Z HEN LU / AGGIE
FARMERS’ MARKET 54%
“The farmers’ market has something for everyone.”
2 ARBORETUM 25% 3 BURGERS & BREW 21% For most students, there is no better place to buy fresh fruits and vegetables than at a farmers’ market. Plus, it’s safe to say that there’s no sight more charming than little kids running around farmers’ stalls filled with a variety of colorful foods on a Saturday morning. Loved by all in the Davis community, the Davis Farmers’ Market is voted top choice for the “Best Place to Take Your Family” award. Located at Central Park in Downtown Davis, the market is open every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Additionally, every Wednesday in spring, the market holds its “Picnic in the Park” event from 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. complete with live music and performances. The music ranges anywhere from Jazz, to Country, to pop and funk, and serves as a perfect way to get that good, oldfashioned family-time in while also impressing your parents with the market’s tight-knit community feel.
1
BEST EVENT
2
]
Kasey Inglis, a second-year sustainable environmental design major, appreciates how the market captures the small town feel of Davis. According to Inglis, its warm environment allows interactions between students and the local community to grow stronger. “The farmers’ market has something for everyone,” Inglis said. “There is food of all kinds and it is a really friendly environment. They also have live music, which is super fun and entertaining. You can find all types of people here and it’s a great example of the Davis community.” From a wide variety of real and unusual produce, gourmet pastries, freshlypressed apple juice, local arts, music and food trucks, the farmers’ market caters to everyone’s needs.
- MEGAN TOY & SARA WILLIAMS
PICNIC DAY 78%
“This event is a manifestation of Davis: WHOLE EARTH 16% friendly, quirky and full of surprises.”
3 TEDXUCDAVIS 6%
[
PICNIC DAY
]
NI C HO LAS YO O N / AG G IE
It’s the event your tour guide boasted about, the day your parents attempted (but were denied) visitation and the only Saturday worth waking up before 8 a.m.: Picnic Day. As a culmination of all that is Davis — good food, music, culture, charm and, of course, some cows — it is arguably the most anticipated (and vigorously highlighted) day in any Davis students’ calendar. “This event is a manifestation of Davis: friendly, quirky and full of surprises,” said Grace Scott, a fourth-year plant biology major and current Picnic Day chair. This century-old tradition never fails to entertain any and all picnickers, whether that means checking out student musicians on the Quad or cheering for the
fastest competitor at the Doxie Derby. More impressive than these events, however, is that it is “believed to be the largest student-run event in the nation,” according to the Picnic Day website. “Picnic Day is not so much about April 16, but about the months spent planning it,” Scott said. “It is amazing that students can pull off an event like Picnic Day.” Such student and community involvement is truly what makes Picnic Day the event that it is. And, fortunately for all future Aggies and returning alumni, it isn’t going anywhere. Next year’s Picnic Day will be held on April 22, 2017.
- SOFI E BATES & ALLY OVER BAY
BEST EVENING ENTERTAINMENT
1
[ MONDAVI CENTER ]
3 KARAOKE AT FROGGY’S 26%
D EBPARNA P R AT I HER / AG G I E
MONDAVI CENTER 44%
2 LINEDANCING AT THE GRAD 30%
For the second consecutive year, the Robert and Margrit Mondavi Center for the Performing Arts is voted the best place for evening entertainment. With entertainment available in a myriad of arts, The Mondavi Center offers over 100 events each school year for students and community members to attend. This academic year, students had the chance to see a number of popular performances, including the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Orquesta Buena Vista Social Club, the creators of “Serial” and Mavis Staples and Joan Osborne. “The Mondavi Center welcomes students as a great place to spend an evening or an afternoon,” said Don Roth, executive director of the center. “Our great Aggie Arts Student Advisory Board is taking the lead in getting the word out to students [about our events].”
Although event parking is $9 for all attendees, the center makes sure to give students a break when it comes to the events’ ticket prices. Mondavi Center events are half-price for students, and the first event a student attends is free of charge. Mondavi Center offers volunteer ushering positions and employment opportunities as well, giving students the chance to work at a top-notch performing arts venue. The center includes the Jackson Hall venue, seating 1,801, and the smaller 250-seat Vanderhoef Studio Theatre. Since its opening in 2002, the center has continually served as a basis for education and engagement for UC Davis and its surrounding community. - IVAN VALENZUELA & EMMA SADLOWSKI
BEST OF DAVIS 2016
THE CALIFORNIA AGGIE
BEST PLACE
1
TO PEOPLE-WATCH
QUAD 65%
2 COHO 23%
[
QUAD
]
3 DOWNTOWN 12%
KAT E S N OWDO N / AG G I E
BEST PLACE TO DANCE
1
DAVIS GRADUATE 45%
2 OUR
HOUSE 28%
[ DAVIS GRADUATE ]
3 G ST
WUNDERBAR 27%
N I C H O L AS YO O N / AG G IE
1
ARC 81%
2 ARBORETUM 11%
BEST PLACE TO EXERCISE
[ ARC ]
3 GREENBELT 8%
BRIANA NG O / AG G IE
AD
TUESDAY, MAY 3, 2016 | 9
Whether you watch animals, gravity-defying humans or just plain-old Davis folk going about their daily lives, the UC Davis Quad is a great place to hang out and see life pass by. “Lunch time, like noon, is the best time to be on the Quad,” said Nadiah Diah, a second-year food science major. “I love people-watching there!” Around lunchtime, students flood by the masses onto the Quad to consume iced coffee, Coho pizza and “especial” chicken burritos. “There was this one time I saw a squirrel grab a whole slice of pizza and try to climb a tree with it in its mouth,” Diah said. “That If you’re looking to let loose, the Davis Graduate, this year’s best place to dance, is the place for you. Located in the University Mall, the Davis Graduate, otherwise known as “the Grad,” is a combination sports bar and restaurant that turns into a dance club at night. It opened in 1971 and has managed to maintain its festive vibe and appeal for college students. There is a different dance theme every night of the week, each accompanied by a unique music genre. On Mondays, Fridays and Saturdays, one can
To anyone looking for a good place to workout this spring: the search is over. This year’s best place to exercise is none other than the UC Davis Activities and Recreation Center (ARC). UC Davis students can enjoy the ARC free of charge by presenting their student ID. The ARC includes a variety of exercise methods, from the indoor basketball and raquetball courts to an indoor track. There are also dozens of cardio machines for those who want to get moving while watching their favorite shows on one of the many TVs on or near the equipment. For those trying to build some muscle, the weight room
was super funny.”
“Lunch time, like noon, is the best time to be on the Quad.” However, it’s not just hungry squirrels filling up the Quad. Among the delights of animal malarkey you can also see slackliners, parkour jumpers, jugglers, gymnasts and the a cappella groups’ practice sessions. All things special to Davis can be seen whilst getting a tan and sitting with your friends at Davis’ “Best Place to People-Watch.” - KATE SNOWDON & CARA KLEINROCK
expect country line dancing for anyone 18 or older. The Grad offers salsa dancing on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Third-year biology major Karen Parga has attended dance nights at the Grad before. “I went to the Grad on salsa night during Halloween, and it was just so funny seeing everyone wearing their costumes and dancing around to fancy moves,” Parga said. If students would like to experience the Grad for themselves, it is open weekdays at 11 a.m. and weekends at 10 a.m., with varying closing times. - DEMI CACERES
is a safe bet. The line to use the squat racks can be long, but loud sounds of panting and metal plates banging together will help to pass the time. “I come [to the ARC] because there are people constantly here and they help you to get more out of your workout,” said Elliot Wilde, a third-year biological sciences major. The atmosphere of the ARC goes beyond that of fitness. There are plenty of friendly faces looking for new fitness buddies and people who will help you to excel in whatever workout you choose on any given day. - RYAN BUGSCH & MICHAEL WEXLER
BEST OF DAVIS 2016
The california aggie
MOST PICTURESQUE LOCATION
[ The Arboretum ]
ARIEL ROBBINS / AGGIE
1. THE ARBORETUM 75% 2. PUTAH CREEK 13% 3. REDWOOD GROVE 12%
“The water is still and you can hear the wind through the trees. It’s nice to sit by yourself and just breathe.”
Tuesday, MAY 3, 2016 | 10
For the second year in a row, the Arboretum has been voted the most picturesque location in Davis. The Arboretum’s popularity for picture-taking can be traced to a variety of characteristics. For one, the Arboretum displays a diverse array of landscapes. On the Arboretum’s website, it boasts an estimated 100 acres of lush gardens and wildlife. Within those 100 acres, visitors can take pictures of a large range of plants and wildlife native to California. The garden collection includes a conifer collection, Australian collection and a foothill collection. Since the Arboretum’s plants and wildlife change with each season, visitors can always count on taking a picture of something new and unseen. The Arboretum is also ideal
as a backdrop for photo shoots and for group and graduation pictures, especially in the Terrace Garden and Lois Crowe Patio. The location’s continued success as a beautiful and picturesque location can be attributed to what it symbolizes for students. For Shailaja Chadha, a firstyear sustainable agriculture and food systems major, the Arboretum represents an ideal of beauty that is often hard to find in normal day-to-day life. Chadha said the calming nature of the Arboretum and its ability to relax students adds to the physical charm of the space itself. “It’s just a peaceful place,” Chadha said. “The water is still and you can hear the wind through the trees. It’s nice to sit by yourself and just breathe.”
- KATRINA MANRIQUE
BEST EGGHEAD [ Bookhead ] BEST ON-CAMPUS ANIMAL
DANIEL TAK / AGGIE
1. BOOKHEAD 61%
ANH-TRAM BUI / AGGIE
1. COWS 38%
2. EYE ON MRAK 20%
“...it’s cool to work with them and around them.”
2. SQUIRRELS 37%
3. SEE NO EVIL / HEAR NO EVIL 19% This year, Shields Library has more than one title to boast about, as its egghead statue, the “Bookhead,” has been voted the best egghead statue on campus. Robert Arneson’s egghead statues, which can be found all over campus, have been a staple of the UC Davis campus for over 20 years. While Arneson had a long and successful career in ceramic art, the eggheads were some of his last works. Their installation on campus began in 1991. MacKenzie Smith, a university librarian, sees “Bookhead” as a symbol of the UC Davis community, serving as a
[ Cows ]
3. ROAMING TURKEYS 25%
bridge between books and the future of knowledge. “While our ‘Bookhead’ has his head buried in a book and we love them too, the library has its eye on the future,” Smith said. “We think every day about how we can best serve the needs of 21st-century students, whether it’s offering more access to digital technology in the library or helping students and faculty become more efficient and effective at finding and interpreting information online.” - KENTON GOLDSBY & SANGEETHA RAMAMURTHY
For the residents of Tercero, the wonderful cow scent is a daily reminder of the dairy right next door. For the rest of Davis, the cows are a charming addition to the farm town aesthetic, attracting students and visitors alike to watch the cattle roam around the pastures. The cows have been a part of campus since 1959, and they are one of the most visible symbols of Davis’ century-long history as an agricultural school. Students can take classes such as Animal
Science 49A: Animal Management Practices to learn how to interact and work with the animals. There are around 300 cows that make up the dairy, with about 100 milking cows, whose milk is sent off to Homer Cheese Company. “I like how quiet and calm they are; they are really sweet,” said Maria Patino, assistant herdsperson for the dairy. “It’s hard, but it’s cool to work with them and around them.”
- ANJALI BHAT & AUSTIN CARROLL
the California Aggie “There are always fun conversations, there’s always something funny or interesting happening... It’s fun to walk into the office and see people laughing. It makes my day.”
1. THE CALIFORNIA AGGIE 38% 2. THE ARC 34% 3. THE COHO 28% Established in 1915 as The Weekly Agricola, The California Aggie has been UC Davis’ official student-run newspaper for the past 100 years. In 2014, The Aggie went out of print due to financial difficulties and switched to an online-only format. But this past Winter Quarter, The Aggie ran a successful campaign to bring back ink-onpaper journalism through the “Print The Aggie” fee initiative. As a result, The Aggie will be back in print beginning in fall 2016.
BEST PLACE
TO WORK According to Ritika Iyer, a fourth-year economics and international relations double major and The California Aggie’s managing editor, The Aggie’s workspace is a collaborative environment with a diverse array of reporters, photographers, designers, new media managers and more. Through reporting on the various events and activities that occur both on-and-off-campus every week, staffers strive to create a more informed and intune UC Davis student body.
“[It’s] really cool to be able to work with over 100 staffers that are all interested in the same end goal,” Iyer said. “Just by seeing the production process of when you first get your assignment all the way through [to] when it’s on the site and people are liking it on Facebook, on Twitter — you really feel like you’re making a difference to campus.” Working at The Aggie does not just help enhance staffers’ journalistic skills — it’s also an excellent opportunity for professional development. For Iyer, the
Reduce. Reuse. Recycle The Aggie
JAY GELVEZON / AGGIE
time she has spent in The Aggie’s Lower Freeborn office has helped her develop skills in leadership as well as interviewing, reporting and writing. Iyer encourages anyone who is interested in journalism to apply to work at The Aggie. “There are always fun conversations, there’s always something funny or interesting happening [down in Lower Freeborn],” Iyer said. “It’s fun to walk into the office and see people laughing. It makes my day.”
- JACQUELINE CHU & JENNIE CHANG