A Letter From The Editor

Written by Shai Mahajan | Designed by Emily Snisarenko | Photographed by Chika Okoye

With the turn of the pandemic, amongst the chaos and turmoil of a fatal disease and the rise of social movements that woke society to its core, we watched life as we knew it transform forever. Terrified for humanity, itching for freedom.

Shuttered away, we learned to cope with different methods and sought a new purpose: some of us delved into baking, others into painting, or whipped dalgona coffees and gardening. For me, the Buzz became my banana bread and dalgona coffee, it found my heart amidst the chaos of the pandemic. Monumental in my growth, it subconsciously became a part of my identity.

A year and a half later, we’ve come back as different individals. Matured, eager, and stronger.

The bustling sidewalk of Commonwealth Avenue fills a special place in my heart. As I watch the swath of students scurry to their classes, I am reminded of how Fall brings changes and chances. Thanks to the wonderful hardworking individuals of the largest team this publication has seen thus far, we have the chance to take risks, push boundaries, take a stand about causes we believe in, and explore topics we are passionate about. The Buzz is back, and it’s stronger than ever.

Shai wears a burnt orange velvet dress by Michael Costello from Revolve

The hope is to always get to the top of the ladder, for resume and professional reasons. But it’s when the work begins to feel like play, that things start to take shape. With the Buzz, the lines for me have always been blurred as I have come to live and breathe it every day. It became a release for me, a reality I could immerse myself into that I honestly can’t wait to live in for the rest of my life. This publication – my outlet and safe space – made me realize that this is my ikigai. What I’m getting at is, not that your journey should be anything like mine, but that I hope that it inspires you to find yours.

Sincerely, Shai Mahajan, Editor-in-Chief

Shai wears a corset top from Pretty Little Thing and an off-white slip skirt from Aritzia