Issue 14, Volume 87

@thedailycougar www.thedailycougar.com Wednesday, April 6, 2022

Est. 1934

Issue 14, Volume 87

‘Growth Period’ UH Public Art system expands its collection to the student community. | PG. 2 SPORTS

UH softball’s Becca Schulte does it all. | PG. 4

OPINION

UH should prioritize HyFlex courses. | PG. 6

LIFE AND ARTS

Advice on fitness, hot girl outfits and hangouts . | PG. 7

2 | Wednesday, April 6, 2022

NEWS

AMINAH TANNIR, EDITOR

THEDAILYCOUGAR.COM/NEWS

@THEDAILYCOUGAR

ART

Evolution of the University’s Public Art program

Dorothy Hood exhibit in the University’s special collections. | James Schillinger/The Cougar

LISA EL-AMIN

ASSISTANT NEWS EDITOR @LISAELAMIN17

Students are exposed to a variety of artwork, but behind the creativity is a complex process of bringing the sketch to life.

The University’s Public Art system houses various artwork styles from renowned artists as well as provides opportunities to understand the behind the scenes of each exhibit and piece.

Public Art program manager Ileana Yordan shared insight into the process of displaying the exhibits as well as a brief history of how UH System’s public art process was established.

“In 1969 UH made its first official acquisition which is Orbit One and Orbit Two by the Japanese American artist, Masaharu Takiguchi,” Yordan said. “So that was a really interesting acquisition and then we acquired our first outdoor sculpture, Albertus Magnus in 1970.”

Since then, multiple acquisitions were made transforming the campus into its own outdoor museum, Yordan said. The UH System has also worked towards displaying public art throughout all of its campuses and universities.

Exhibits In the library’s special collections department is an exhibit dedicated to Dorothy Hood and her artwork.

The exhibit called “The Edge of Being” features the Texas-born artist’s archival works from when she was a child until her final years.

“This show is a variety of both paintings and collages by Dorothy Hood, but also some of her own objects from her studio, paintbrushes, a variety of ephemera and archival material from her apparel collection,” Yordan said.

The exhibit will be available to view long term until March 2023.

A recent piece of work from Muna Al-Bader is her mural painting “Cultural Bonds” which connects her experience in Houston and her birth city, Doha.

“She was so inspired by being here on a campus and talking to students that she added these quotes which are about the importance of education,” said public programs and outreach manager Lauren Cross.

Al-Bader uses the color blue in all of her paintings as a symbolic way for her to remember and honor her ancestors, according to Cross.

In March 2022, a show “Instantaneous Beauty” on Andy Warhol’s photography became open to view at UH Downtown where UH systems were gifted about 100 images highlighting his legacy, Yordan said.

The show is a traveling exhibition that will be on view at UHD until April 6 and then relocating to UH Clear Lake.

“And this exhibition is an opportunity for us to kind of highlight the collection in a way that puts it into conversation with some of his finished artworks and artworks by some of his contemporaries,” Yordan said.

Located in the art district on campus is Cynthia Woods Mitchell Center for the Arts which houses a few key pieces of work from previous UH professors.

“Windows on the World”

by Al Souza showcases a nontraditional pop art piece made from fragmented jigsaw puzzles.

“It’s called Windows on the World, the idea being you have all of these windows but also creates this kind of global shape,” Cross said.

James Surls’ “The Flower Woman” is a modern sculpture made from pine, oak and gum wood.

According to the Public Art department, Surls enjoyed letting the structure of the wood dictate the form of the sculpture.

“Usually it’s very rewarding just to look a little longer or a little closer, which I think is something that sometimes you know, with works like this,” Cross said.

In addition to the free public arts tours, a variety of workshops for students to learn about art with respected artists are available as a resource on campus.

Strategic planning is done by

the UH Public Art committee who approves all projects and any initiatives that are explored.

According to Yordan, diversifying the collections is a high priority to ensure artists of different backgrounds are represented.

Another crucial step for the Public Art department is determining the placement and accessibility of each artwork.

Re-evaluating the art’s location and access is a constant process for the committee to ensure visibility is improved.

“We do consider disability access and access to the general public,” Yordan said. “ We want to make sure that any of the artwork in our collection, that are on view, are accessible and they’re not tucked away or locked away in places that can’t be seen or experienced.”

Computer engineering technology junior Lama Tahan shared her appreciation for the variety of art on campus as well as the uniqueness of each piece.

“Personally, my favorite art piece is the mural at the college of technology called Cultural Bonds because I really enjoy seeing it through my eyes and what it means to me in relation with education and culture,” Tahan said. “I appreciate the message it gives to me and love the different colors, styles, and techniques used in the artwork.

Overall, the artwork on campus is unique, diverse, and very fun

to see.”

The Public Art system has seen a transition in its operations going from a collecting organization to functioning as a museum.

In terms of the future of UH Public Art, Cross shared that in addition to having a permanent collection, there is a temporary program for any emerging artists in Houston to apply and create proposals to turn into reality.

“They’ll usually submit to us a budget, a sketch and a plan of what the artwork will be,” Cross said. “From there and then we decide from there you know, is this feasible? Is it affordable? Is it possible to pull off ? Does it kind of eliminate our collection? So there are a lot of people kind of cooks in the kitchen to decide which art gets put on campus.”

Members of the UH Public Art committee share that they are continuing to work on broadening their scope and what they can offer while creating opportunities for the community to get involved.

“It’s just an exciting time to be apart of UH Public Art because it’s at a growth period right now,” Yordan said. “Giving access to the population of students, people who might not normally visit a museum or typically go to a gallery space, that kind of brings the art to them in an educational environment.” news@thedailycougar.com

Wednesday, April 6, 2022 | 3 AMINAH TANNIR, EDITOR

THEDAILYCOUGAR.COM/NEWS

@THEDAILYCOUGAR

NEWS

CAMPUS

New athletics facility brings discussion on older UH buildings AMINAH TANNIR

NEWS EDITOR @AMOUNAJT

Students have mixed feelings about the announcement of the new athletics facility, saying UH should put more focus on the aging buildings on campus.

The new athletics facility plan and budget were approved at the quarterly Board of Regents meeting. This project is aiming to be completed by Winter 2024.

Some people weren’t sure how to feel about the new facility, with students like accounting junior Maisha Walker wanting more to be done with the older buildings on campus as far as renovations or fixing issues that have been around for years.

“It’s unfair that the older buildings remain extremely outdated while the University prioritizes the funding of new buildings,” Walker said. “These buildings don’t have the same level of cleanliness and professional look as the newer buildings.”

Other students, like strategic communications senior Jefferson Coe, do not see the immediate concern over renovating the older buildings when comparing the

Agnes Arnold, one of the older buildings on campus, remains in its design phase despite a project aiming to renovate the building being introduced in 2017. | Marissa Reilly/The Cougar

time spent on the athletics facility.

“I think they give a nice oldschool college look,” Coe said.

Moreover, Coe thinks the University should put a priority on academics and the spaces that enable that environment.

“I believe that (the) majority of students come to school for a degree,” Coe said. “So, UH should focus on academics first and making sure that they are providing the best educational environments for the students.”

In light of students’ concerns,

the vice president of facilities and construction management David Oliver said the Core Renovation Project introduced in 2017 is meant to renovate the buildings that make up the general education core of the University.

This “core” includes Agnes Arnold Hall, Charles F. McElhinney Hall, Roy G. Cullen, Science Research and Engineering Center, Science and Research I and the Science Building.

“These buildings are home to a substantial number of

classrooms, labs, faculty offices and departmental headquarters,” Oliver said. “The renovation plan includes addressing deferred maintenance issues, modernization of facilities, building systems and aligning the interior spaces with the occupants’ needs.”

The Science Building and the Roy G. Cullen buildings recently had major renovation projects completed. Other buildings are currently in their first or second phase of construction.

Agnes Arnold, despite the project being launched in 2017, won’t see the start of construction until the summer of 2024 and remains in its design phase.

“We recognize that construction can be an inconvenience for members of our campus community, but we appreciate their patience as we work to improve our facilities,” Oliver said. “The campus is undergoing immense growth and we are excited about the progress already made and the terrific improvements that are in store for the future.” news@thedailycougar.com

CRIME

Catalytic converter theft strikes UH parking lots JOHN LOMAX

STAFF WRITER

To most, the catalytic converter is one of many indistinguishable parts that lies somewhere in the tangled mess of wires and metal that somehow makes our vehicles move. But to others, the small metal part represents a pay day.

Andres Leon, a senior in his last semester as a political science major, learned that the hard way when he went to pick up a friend in early March. When he got to his car parked in lot E and turned the ignition, the noise that greeted him was anything but normal.

“I heard a very loud explosion come from under my vehicle,” said Leon. “I got out and looked under my vehicle and noticed pretty much right away that my catalytic converter had been sawn off.”

Leon immediately contacted campus police, but according to him the response from the officers left a lot to be desired.

“They seemed to question whether or not it had been stolen

here [on campus].” Leon said. “He wasn’t very helpful. He told me I shouldn’t expect much since I couldn’t give an exact time frame for them to check the camera surveillance.”

The theft has Leon in a tricky situation, as he cannot afford the annual fee of the parking garage, he’s left to either pay the repair bill and hope it doesn’t happen again, or go without a car for the time being.

“Because of the poor security on campus and bad lighting, I’m afraid of getting it fixed because I’m scared it’ll happen again,” Leon said.

Theft of catalytic converters has seen a dramatic increase in the city over the past few years. Between 2019 and 2021 there was a 2000 percent increase in the number of catalytic converter thefts reported, according to KPRC. UH is not immune to this increase, with more and more thefts being reported each week.

The University’s crime log lists

Catalytic converters are being stolen from some UH parking lots, leaving students stuck with high repair costs. | Aisha Bouderdaben/The Cougar

13 thefts of catalytic converters in 2022 alone, the vast majority occurring in lots E, D and F. There’s also a chance that these thefts represent a more serious, systemic problem. Whatever the issue, more and more students are finding themselves in similar situations to Leon, leaving many to wonder if parking in the open lots is still a safe option.

“Individuals are responsible for the thefts, but it seems the stolen items are being purchased by

organized groups,” said Sergeant Dina Padovan, a UHPD officer and crime prevention staffer.

UHPD is aware of this and is taking steps to combat the issue.

“The University of Houston Police Department is working with other agencies to address this nationwide problem,” Padovan said. “We are developing an educational video for our University community with tips on how to safeguard their vehicles.” news@thedailycougar.com

EDITORIAL BOARD EDITOR IN CHIEF

Donna Keeya

ASSISTANT NEWS EDITOR

MANAGING EDITOR

Ashley Gwananji Lisa El-Amin

WEB EDITOR

ASSISTANT SPORTS EDITOR

Sydney Rose

Jhair Romero NEWS EDITOR

Sean Thomas Armando Yanez

SPORTS EDITOR

ASS ISTANT CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Aminah Tannir James Mueller

Gerald Sastra

OPINION EDITOR

Anna Baker

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Juana Garcia

STAFF EDITORIAL The Staff Editorial reflects the opinions of The Cougar Editorial Board (the members of which are listed above the editorial). All other opinions, commentaries and cartoons reflect only the opinion of the author. Opinions expressed in The Cougar do not necessarily reflect those of the University of Houston or the students as a whole.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR The Cougar welcomes letters to the editor from any member of the UH community. Letters should be no more than 250 words and signed, including the author’s full name, phone number or e-mail address and affiliation with the University, including classification and major.

Anonymous letters will not be published. Deliver letters to N221, University Center; e-mail them to letters@thedailycougar.com; send them via campus mail to STP 4015; or fax to (713) 743-5384. Letters are subject to editing.

GUEST COMMENTARY Submissions are accepted from any member of the UH community and must be signed with the author’s name, phone number or e-mail address and affiliation with the University, including classification and major. Commentary should be limited to 500 words. Guest commentaries should not be written as replies, but rather should present independent points of view. Deliver submissions to N221, University Center; e-mail them to letters@ thedailycougar.com; or fax them to (713) 743-5384. All submissions are subject to editing.

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4 | Wednesday, April 6, 2022

SPORTS NEWS

JAMES MUELLER, EDITOR

THEDAILYCOUGAR.COM/SPORTS

@THECOUGARSPORTS

SOFTBALL

UH softball’s Becca Schulte is a true supermom JAMES MUELLER

SPORTS EDITOR @JDM2186

Going through graduate school is challenging enough, and adding on being a Division I athlete takes the degree of difficulty to another level.

On top of all that, throw in being a single mother of a 1-yearold girl, and it would be too much for almost any person to handle.

UH softball’s Becca Schulte is the exception, being described as a supermom by her teammate and double-play partner Rock Benavides.

“Becca’s a hero,” Benavides said. “She’s literally a superhero.

I don’t how she does it. All I do is softball and school (and that’s a lot). She’s being a single mom on top of that. That’s amazing to me.”

Road to UH Prior to transferring to UH for graduate school, the 6-foot Andover, Kansas native began her collegiate softball career at Butler Community College in 2016.

To say that she experienced immense success there is a bit of an understatement.

In Schulte’s two years at Butler Community College, the Grizzlies went 111-5, including an 88-game win streak, on the way to leading her team to back-to-back NJCAA National Championships in 2016 and 2017.

“There was so much chemistry and joy on the team (at Butler Community College) that it made success come easy,” Schulte said.

“I was also there to prove myself and to work to get a scholarship.

I was playing with a chip on my shoulder. I was still chasing that Division I dream, so I worked harder than ever.”

Schulte, who batted .433 with 26 home runs in 108 RBIs during her sophomore campaign, capped off her Butler career by being named the 2017 NJCAA

UH softball’s Becca Schulte leads the Cougars in home runs (11) and RBIs (35) through 37 games. | Courtesy of UH athletics

Division I Championship MVP. “Winning those national championships helped me believe that I could compete and be successful at a high level,” Schulte said.

Schulte left Butler Community College as the Grizzlies’ all-time leader in home runs, with 42, RBIs, with 181, and runs scored, with 157.

In 2018, Schulte transferred to LSU and took over as the Tigers’ everyday second baseman.

LSU reached the NCAA Super Regionals that year.

After all her success, hardship finally struck the next year as Schulte suffered an injury that sidelined her for the entire 2019 season.

Luckily for Schulte, her softball

playing days did not come to an end as the NCAA granted her a waiver for an extra year of eligibility.

After graduating from LSU in August 2019 with a business administration degree, Schulte transferred to UH and started graduate school in January of 2020.

Changing plans In her first year as a Cougar at the time, Schulte got off to a hot start.

The new UH second baseman started the first 23 games of the year, hitting five home runs and driving in 18 runs for a 16-7 in favor of the UH softball team that included an 11-game win streak.

Then, the COVID-19 pandemic took the United States by storm and the NCAA canceled the remainder of all spring sports.

This was crushing as Schulte didn’t know if she’d ever take the diamond again.

Little did Schulte know, the pandemic would not be the only thing to shake up her world in 2020 as she would find out later in the year that she was pregnant.

Becoming a mom

Becca Schulte says the day her daughter Rin was born was the best day of her life. | Courtesy of Becca Schulte

Schulte was originally told she was having a boy and settled on the name Rin, but three months before her due date another curveball was thrown her way — the baby was actually a girl.

Despite this new information, something about the name Rin struck a chord with Schulte and so she decided to stick with it for her soon-to-be baby girl.

“I just knew in my heart that my baby’s name was Rin, so we stuck with Rin for a girl too,” Schulte said. “It fits her. It’s unique.”

On March 23, 2021, Schulte’s life changed forever with the arrival of her daughter, Rin Elizabeth.

From the moment she gave birth, Schulte was immediately filled with a kind of unconditional love towards her newborn.

“It’s the best thing that’s ever happened to me,” Schulte said.

“Being a mom is my purpose now. It fits me well and I wouldn’t change it for the world.”

Strong support system While Rin’s birth brought Schulte more joy than she knew imaginable, she also knew raising an infant would require her to lean on the support of others.

From friends and family to her teammates, who consider Rin to be their little niece, to parents of old teammates, Schulte feels blessed with the support system that surrounds her.

“They always say it takes a village and they’re not kidding,” Schulte said. “With any kid, it takes a village but especially in

my situation. I have incredible help and so many people that love on (Rin). I just think that I’m super blessed with the circle I have and the circle keeps growing.”

Schulte is especially grateful for her sister Beth, who moved down to Houston and has been a large part in helping raise Rin. “My sister has been the biggest blessing,” Schulte said. “I couldn’t do it without her.”

New perspective Having not played in a competitive softball game since March 10, 2020, Schulte finally returned to the diamond in the fall of 2021 for one last ride.

The transition back to gearing up for the season, piling on top of Schulte’s already busy life as a student and single mother was tough. But after how her final year at LSU and first season at UH went she just wanted one more chance to take the field.

“The fall was hard,” Schulte said. “The fall was definitely hard.

It was a lot, but I knew that the spring would be worth it.”

UH softball head coach Kristin Vesely, who was already high on what Schulte brought with her skillset and leadership when she originally transferred to UH, noticed that her second baseman

SOFTBALL

Continues on page 5

Wednesday, April 6, 2022 | 5 JAMES MUELLER, EDITOR

THEDAILYCOUGAR.COM/SPORTS

@THECOUGARSPORTS

SPORTS NEWS

BASEBALL

UH baseball’s Anthony Tulimero redefining the catcher position JAMES MUELLER

cages and do a few of my different types of drills,” Tulimero said. “I’ve got three drills that I do before I get into bp, take batting practice and then do a little bit of machine work.”

Through April 3, Tulimero leads the Cougars and ranks fourth overall in the AAC in batting average (.369) and on-base percentage (.413).

SPORTS EDITOR @JDM2186

The thick eyeblack stands out every time Anthony Tulimero takes the diamond.

It of part of who Tulimero is as a player, representing the heart and hustle that he brings every game.

“The eyeblack has been a thing for me since high school,” Tulimero said. “I don’t feel fully dressed without it.”

The Kansas transfer has done more than just look the part in his first year in the UH baseball program. He’s become the Cougars’ leader, both behind the plate and with a bat in his hands.

Following his hero’s footsteps

Reliable Opponents’ scouting report on the UH catcher should be simple: Don’t try to run on Tulimero because he will throw you out.

“If they got a guy trying to steal, nine times out of ten he’s going to get thrown out,” said UH relief pitcher Ben Sears when asked about Tulimero’s arm behind the plate.

Tulimero leads the American Athletic Conference with 14 runners caught stealing.

The 6-foot catcher is also a human wall behind the dish, rarely allowing anything to get by him.

There’s no doubt in the mind of any pitcher on the UH staff that Tulimero is going to keep the ball in front of him.

“It’s nice knowing you have a

Anthony Tulimero has slashed at the plate all year, leading the Cougars in batting average and on-base percentage in 2022. | James Mueller/The Cougar

catcher back there who you can trust with any pitch that you throw,” said UH pitcher Nathan Medrano. “If you bounce one in the dirt, he’s going to smother it and block it.”

This is a huge advantage for UH pitchers, giving them the confidence to throw any kind of pitch in any type of situation.

“I trust that guy with everything and I’m not afraid to throw a ball in the dirt with runners on or anything,” Sears said. “He’s just been an incredible all-around player this year.”

All this success stems from

the daily work Tulimero puts in, practicing countless situations behind the plate so that he is prepared for everything while also putting a special emphasis on his health so that he can perform to his highest capability every time he takes the diamond under the bright lights.

“Behind the plate, I have a routine that I like to stick to,” Tulimero said. “I like to do the same type of drills pretty much every day. Really taking care of my body is something that is most important to me behind the plate.

If I’m not healthy, I’m not going to be able to play at my highest level.”

The work has paid major dividends.

UH baseball head coach had one word to describe Tulimero’s defense — elite.

“You’re talking about an elite guy as far throwing runners out at second base, his receiving and his blocking,” Whiting said.

Raking at the plate Tulimero has been as reliable as anyone in the country behind the plate during the 2022 season. | James Mueller/The Cougar

SOFTBALL

Continued from page 4 had a new perspective once she rejoined the Cougars.

“I think (Schulte’s) level of perspective has changed and her maturity,” Vesely said. “She is a college kid but she has something else that she’s responsible for.

She’s a really calming voice for our plays. Just having that leadership available to our kids and their ability to learn from her is huge.”

Vesely said Schulte has been the veteran voice the Cougars needed, always knowing what to say to her teammates no matter the situation the team finds itself in.

“It’s tremendous to have her back,” Vesely said. “She does a good job managing emotions and giving positive ( feedback) to the pitcher and positive energy.

That’s such a big deal.”

Schulte is making the most of her final season as a collegiate softball player, hitting .323 to go

In today’s day and age of baseball, there is not much expectation to get offensive

along with a team-best 11 home runs and 35 RBIs. One of Schulte’s hometown friends, Kayla Weidert, even started the #mombombs and tagged the NCAA when reposting clips of the UH second baseman’s home runs. This quickly caught on with the rest of the UH softball team and they began doing the same every time Schulte went yard.

Along with her big bat in the middle of the UH lineup, Schulte’s a rock-solid second baseman that

production out catcher position as managing games behind the plate is seen as a catcher’s primary priority.

This does not apply to Tulimero, who takes just as much pride in what he does with a bat in his hands as he does “I take pride in both sides of the game,” Tulimero said. “I want to be as well-rounded as I can.”

While Whitting expected to get some offensive production out of his catcher, he did not anticipate Tulimero transforming into one of the Cougars’ best hitters. “(Tulimero) was a kid that we expected to get some offense out of,” Whitting said. “I thought when we signed him we’d probably hit him 7-8-9, but as this thing has kind of played out he’s worked his way up into the four-hole.

He’s once of the most offensive catcher’s in the country right now.”

Tulimero credits the work he has put in with UH hitting coach Ross Kivett to develop an offensive routine as the key to his offensive outburst in 2022.

“Offensively, pretty much every day I’m going to start out in the

makes the difficult plays look routine.

While Schulte has gone through so many ups and downs to get to this point, wearing many different hats while juggling countless tasks on a daily basis, she wouldn’t change where she is at for the world.

“When you love something, your work for it,” Schulte said. “I love softball and my baby, so the work is worth it.” sports@thedailycougar.com

As a California native, Tulimero has idolized Los Angeles Dodgers catcher Will Smith.

Tulimero sees many similarities between himself and the Dodgers’ catcher. In his first three years in the MLB, Smith has hit .262 at the plate with 43 home runs and 143 RBIs, an offensive production that any major league team would take from the catcher position.

Behind the plate, Smith has produced a .997 fielding percentage, committing only six errors in his young career.

In 2021, Smith produced a career-high 3.5 wins above replacement.

As a result, Tulimero has tried to model his game around Smith’s.

“I’m from California and I really like Will Smith with the Dodgers,” Tulimero said. “I think we have a pretty similar build, about 6-foot, 190, 200 pounds. Just watching him play every day, he’s a good defender and can really swing it.”

While Tulimero still has ways to go before he reaches the same status as his hero, he is currently bringing many of the same things, both tangible and intangible, to UH that Smith has brought to the Dodgers.

Everyone within the UH baseball program recognizes that Tulimero’s production, both offensively and defensively, has been key to the Cougars’ strong start to the season.

“Tuli is the man,” Sears said.

“He’s one of the best catchers in the country.” sports@thedailycougar.com

Becca Schulte celebrates a UH win with Rin. | Courtesy of Becca Schulte

6 | Wednesday, April 6, 2022

OPINION NEWS

ANNA BAKER, EDITOR

THEDAILYCOUGAR.COM/OPINION

ONLINE CLASSES

HyFlex course options should be prioritized ANNA BAKER

i

The Cougar

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ABOUT THE COUGAR The Cougar is published every Wednesday during the fall and spring semesters, and Wednesdays during the summer and online at thedailycougar.com. The Cougar is supported in part by Student Service Fees. The first copy is free. Additional copies cost 25 cents.

OPINION EDITOR @ANNALYNNBAKER

The coronavirus pandemic brought a lot of change with moving to online education.

A couple of years later, many colleges are back in person, something many people are grateful for.

That said, in order to help students get the best education they can, UH should prioritize offering HyFlex course options.

COPYRIGHT No part of the newspaper in print or online may be reproduced without the consent of the director of Student Publications.

Online learning When it took off in 2020, there was a lot of criticism of online learning. For many people, the isolation of not seeing classmates made school difficult.

The lack of a regular schedule made many students anxious.

Faculty felt stressed while struggling to adapt their curriculum to an online format.

Because of this, many people are enjoying the return to campus. With few exceptions, the majority of courses are now back to a face-to-face format, according to the Cougar.

Nevertheless, many students also appreciated the convenience and flexibility of online learning.

In fact, a Digital Learning Pulse survey found that a majority of college students want more online options.

Accessibility is a big part of preferring online learning, especially for students like theatre senior Allie Funk. She had classes go online at the start of the pandemic but now is back to in-person instruction.

“In general, (online classes) were helpful because I could do them from wherever, whether I was at home or in my dorm,” Funk said. “I could even attend a class in my recliner if I was having a really bad pain day.”

Funk’s experience exemplifies the utility of online school, especially for people whose disabilities may make it harder for them to attend class without pain. Online classes allowed her to take care of her schooling and comfort at the same time.

Online options are not only useful for disabled students, but also for students with kids.

History junior Desteny Guillen said being both a student and a parent of a young child has made her learn how to manage time better. Online classes have helped with that.

“My experience with online classes is awesome because I can do the work and readings when my son is sleeping or on my own time,” Guillen said. “Most

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of the work is always due at the end of the week. Therefore, each student-parent can make their own schedule on when to work and turn in their assignments.”

Remote classes provide the flexibility that people with timeconsuming responsibilities, such as raising children, need to thrive as both parents and students.

Online classes are clearly, very helpful. But a student’s need for in-person or remote learning may change based on their day-to-day schedule.

HyFlex learning HyFlex classes, which are when students can attend the same class online or in person, can be useful for students who sometimes want to attend class, but can’t always make it.

This is the case with Funk.

When attending class, Funk often has to rely on the weather to be dry because of her power chair.

“If it’s raining, I have to make sure to put a bag on the controller and if it’s raining really hard, a lot of times I just can’t go to class,” Funk said. “It’s not worth potentially damaging my wheelchair.”

This is an issue that is hard to fix in other ways. The University cannot control the weather, but it can control what alternative learning options it offers to students.

When UH had a soft opening featuring HyFlex, Funk found this to be helpful.

“When I would use the HyFlex option, it was never because I didn’t want to go to class,” Funk said. “It was always situations where I wasn’t going to be going to class in person anyways. I was able to virtually attend and not miss out completely.”

It’s no secret that Houston gets rain regularly. Students like Funk shouldn’t have to choose between damaging their expensive power chair and attending class.

HyFlex can be extremely useful for other situations, such as car trouble.

Biology senior Nina Tran’s HyFlex course came in handy when her car’s tire popped on the way to school and she had to replace it.

“After having to deal with getting it changed, it really helped me to be able to attend class from home instead of worrying about making it to campus on time,” Tran said.

Many students may prefer to come to an in-person class, but a HyFlex option can give them peace of mind that they can still attend if something happens.

Issues A HyFlex course sounds like the best of both worlds and it can be for students who need them.

Of course, there is another side to HyFlex courses in the professors who teach them.

Honors College Professor Laura Bland offers all of her classes in HyFlex format.

“The biggest benefit is student accessibility,” Bland said. “I want students to be able to participate in class even if they have something else going on.”

While Bland is very pro-HyFlex, she said technology can be a big issue and sometimes just won’t work on certain days. In one of her classrooms, there’s a glare making it difficult for students online to see her or the class.

“From the professor’s side, it is a lot of extra time to do HyFlex well,” Bland said. “You might be able to fix those problems but of

course, that takes class time.”

It’s not surprising that troubles arise in environments not originally built for having class in person as well as onscreen.

Better technology and building classrooms with the HyFlex option in mind could probably solve many of these issues.

However, technology is not the only problem. While Bland is very enthusiastic about offering online options to students, it is no secret that some professors in general really struggle with teaching online.

Some professors at other universities have even compared HyFlex learning to dystopian fiction and there are likely faculty here who share a similar aversion. If UH expanded its online options, it would need to provide extra training and resources so that professors have what they need to teach effectively.

While it’s not an easy fix, the University should decide if its priorities lie with all student’s educational needs. Because if so, it should push for and encourage professors to teach more HyFlex courses.

The educational benefits of HyFlex are clear. It is always better for a student to attend class than not, whether that be in person or online. Having more online options can help students decide what is best for their education.

Expanding online options, especially HyFlex, would highly benefit the student body.

Students deserve to thrive in their education, whether that be in a classroom, on a computer or both. opinion@thedailycougar.com

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Wednesday, April 6, 2022 | 7 AMINAH TANNIR, EDITOR

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LIFE ANDNEWS ARTS

ADVICE

Ask Ashley: Advice on bars, summer fits, more ASHLEY GWANANJI

Ashley, do you like working out? If so, what do you like to do? I need inspiration.

In The Cougar’s weekly anonymous advice column, I talk on Houston bars, ways to look amazing for the summer and my favorite workouts. To submit your questions for future issues, click the “Ask Ashley” button on our home page.

Hmm, I’m not sure I’m the best to answer this question. But to answer your question, yes, I do enjoy working out. I like doing the HIIT workouts as compared to running on a treadmill or elliptical.

With HIIT, I feel more focused on what I’m doing and I think it’s a lot of fun depending on the intensity. I don’t mind the treadmill and elliptical, it’s just that I get bored easily on it.

While still boring, I do find that upping the incline makes the treadmill a little more fun to use.

Although I like doing these activities, I don’t do them often.

But that’s mostly due to poor time management and laziness.

I think the closest thing to working out I’ve done recently was walking from the University Lofts to TDECU stadium for Frontier Fiesta and back.

So I don’t have a complete workout plan to give you. Be sure to eat healthily by getting a balanced meal of your core macronutrients and drinking a lot of water. I know the girlies say you have to cut a drastic amount of carbs out to lose weight, but y’all it’s a macronutrient. You quite literally need it to survive.

Anyways, consult with a licensed dietitian to see what you need diet-wise. Hope this helps!

ASSISTANT NEWS EDITOR @ASHXLES

Hey Ashley, what are some cool bars you like to go to?

Ooo, before I dive into this lovely question, anon, let me make a quick disclaimer. Please drink responsibly and make sure you are legally 21 or older to drink. Okay, now that’s over with, I have a couple bars I like to hit up. There’s one called the Holman Draft Bar in midtown.

It’s a nice blend of an indoor and outdoor bar, so there’s something for everybody. I personally think the swing concept they have is really cool, and the drinks are really good and affordable.

I also like McIntyre’s Downtown, which has arcade games, live music and food. This place is perfect for those who want a variety of things to do aside from sitting and drinking.

Similar to McIntyre’s Downtown, there is Truck Yard, which is in east downtown. This place doesn’t have arcade games, but it does have a massive ferris wheel that is approximately 10 dollars for two people! And due to its name, Truck Yard has different

Put your talent to good use and build something concrete.

Refuse to let secrets, emotional problems or meddlers come between you and what you want to pursue. Be smart and choose to associate with positive individuals who offer solutions, not criticism. Put your thoughts in motion and stand behind your work. Don’t let personal matters drag you down.

ARIES (March 21-April 19) -- Don’t risk your health trying to impress someone.

You are better off preparing by yourself and surprising everyone when you are satisfied with the results. Confusion may rear its ugly head.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20) -- Put your

Juana Garcia/The Cougar

food trucks constantly serving food. Make sure you try their frozen cocktail drink, Trash Can Punch.

These bars are pretty fun to go to for any occasion such as celebrating somebody’s birthday!

Hope this helps.

Omg, I am so excited for the summer anon. Especially with that new Jack Harlow coming out this Friday. My hot girl persona is currently 50 percent defrosted as I write!

The first items you want in your closet this summer are sundresses and maxi dresses.

They are so simple to style, and I love wearing them in warm, summer colors like orange, yellow and red.

The next thing you should have are swimsuits. I love a bright, high-cut bikini topped with a complementary sarong or kimono. Some of my favorite swimwear shops are Monday Swimwear, Melissa Simone, Dos Swim and Triangl.

I also like shopping from ASOS and Icon Swim if I’m really on a budget or I need something

quickly. Most of these shops have trendy swimwear designs that are definitely in season.

And finally, you need cute shoes. As a fellow shopaholic, fill your closet with sandals, flip flops, strappy heels and more.

I like finding my shoes from DSW, ASOS, Public Desire and Nordstrom. However, you’re likely to find trendy shoes on a friendly budget from ASOS and Public Desire.

Wear what you feel comfortable in, and be sure to take a lot of pictures in your cute fits. Be sure to tag me for credit, of course.

head down and focus on getting things done on time. Don’t change direction midstream or let someone distract you. Your reputation is at stake, so work hard.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20) -- An inquisitive attitude will help you figure out what you can and cannot do. Put everything you’ve got into what you want most, and you won’t be disappointed. Momentum will build.

CANCER (June 21-July 22) -- Check into financial options that will allow you to expand your interests and goals.

Gather facts and figures, and don’t assume anything. Budget wisely.

LEO (July 23-Aug.

22) -- Ask reliable people for assistance. A robust support system will help you avoid unwanted changes or restrictions. Use your intelligence to develop a workable plan and then get to work.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept.

22) -- Take care of your health.

Get involved in new prospects that will give you the edge.

Attention to detail and strategy will help you overcome any problem you encounter. Don’t let emotions interfere.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23) -- You’ll be privy to inside information. Attend meetings and participate in events that offer a vivid picture of what’s to come. Networking and

partnerships are in your best interest.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 22) -- Step outside your comfort zone and size up what’s happening. Having a clear picture will give you the wherewithal to decline an offer without hesitation. Use your insight to gain perspective.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23-Dec. 21) -- Seize the moment, speak freely and put together a strategy that will help you pursue your long-term goals.

Don’t fall prey to someone with colorful ideas that are costly and unrealistic.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) -- Hone your skills and structure a plan that encourages you to earn your

Hot girl summer is approaching! What are some outfits I can wear?

arts@thedailycougar.com

living doing something that brings you joy. Make domestic changes that incorporate a space conducive to being productive.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 19) -- You know the drill and how to get the most out of the least. Stick to your routine, give your all and use your intelligence to make a decision that encourages profit, comfort and convenience.

PISCES (Feb. 20-March 20) -- Mind what others say and how they feel before you bring about a change that can affect your reputation. Getting along will make your life easier.

Play fair and try to minimize disruptions.

- Eugenia Last

8 | Wednesday, April 6, 2022