The Villanovan | Volume 113, Issue 6: Wednesday, October 6, 2021

WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 6, 2021 www.villanovan.com @thevillanovan

STUDENT-RUN SINCE 1916

VOLUME 113 | ISSUE 6

Students Enjoy ‘White’ Play

University Celebrates 16th St. Thomas of Villanova Day of Service

Isabella Balian Staff Writer

After a year of isolation, the Villanova community was finally able to unite under entertainment, art and theater. Last Wednesday, my classmates and I, along with other members of the Villanova community attended the play “White” by James Ijames. This play was a deep, entertaining and informative play that explored relevant social justice issues today regarding racism, cultural appropriation and identity tourism. Despite the educational and informative aspects of this play, there was never a dull moment, and it was deeply entertaining. D.C. Metro described “White” as “a contemporary Frankenstein story that gleefully skewers the modern monstrosities of racism, misogyny, and cultural appropriation, all the while subverting expectations, cracking wise, and opening eyes.”

I believe that the main goal of the play was to apply the idea of identity tourism and cultural appropriation in a real life setting.

Identity tourism can be described as using stereotypes surrounding a social identity for recreational or personal purposes. To represent this idea, one of the main characters Gus, a white male, was using a black woman, Vanessa, and her identity as a black woman, for his own recreational purposes of entering an art show and profiting off of it.

Similarly to me, many students claimed that they enjoyed the play and that it made them think deeper about their effect on society and the idea of identity tourism.

“‘White’ was very educational, teaching individuals like me new phrases,” Bonnie Wu said. “The play was fascinating, leaving Continued on p. 7

Sarah Sweeney Co-News Editor

This past Saturday, Villanova students celebrated a special Sweet Sixteen. Unlike the typical high school birthday we often associate with Sweet Sixteens, the community celebrated the 16th anniversary of a much beloved campus tradition – the St. Thomas of Villanova Day of Service.

The Day of Service was started in 2005 as a single-day celebration of service in the Villanova community, in which students went to a number of different service sites in the Greater Philadelphia area to demonstrate the Uni-

versity’s values of Unitas, Veritas and, most especially, Caritas. Students enjoyed this opportunity to ignite change in the local community so greatly that it was transformed into an annual celebration.

The Day of Service is named in honor of St. Thomas of Villanova, the sixteenth-century archbishop of Valencia and Spain and namesake of the University. Known as “The Father of the Poor,” St. Thomas was famous for his generosity and love towards those most in need.

After last year’s coronavirus-friendly day of service, in which students participated by writing letters to children in hospi-

Members of the Men’s and Women’s Basketball Teams at Day of Service.

Courtesy of Villanova University

tals, packaging care packages for elderly people in nursing homes and preparing food for soup kitchens, there was a lot of anticipation for this year’s fully in-person event.

Luckily, Saturday’s day of service proved to not only live up to all its great expectations but also to exceed them. At 8:15 a.m., more than 4,000 students gathered at the football stadium to meet with their groups, as well as enjoy complimentary refreshments and listen to University President Rev. Peter M. Donohue, O.S.A., Ph.D.’s opening address.

The groups ranged from sports teams to fraternities and sororities to ac-

ademic clubs to groups of friends excited about the opportunity to do service together.

“Thank you all for coming out,” Father Peter said. “It’s a gorgeous day,”

He went on to explain the origin of the Day of Service, as well as its current importance.

“We go out to communities in the Greater Philadelphia area to accomplish something that they need,” he explained, highlighting that although “igniting change” is something all Villanovans are passionate about, “we are going out as helpers not changers.”

Sophomore Luca

Continued on p. 2

Villanova vs. JMU Football Preview Matthew Ryan

Staff Writer

Following Villanova’s 38-17 loss to Penn State, the Wildcats have arguably their biggest game of the season, traveling to the third-ranked James Madison. The ‘Cats had a bye week after facing the Nittany Lions and have been preparing for the preseason pick to win the CAA for about a week and a half.

This matchup will not only be one of the biggest FCS

tests for each squad thus far, but it will also play a pivotal role in the CAA standings as both teams have aspirations of a conference title.

The Dukes opened their season with two dominant victories over Morehead State and CAA opponent Maine, winning by an average

This matchup will play a pivotal role in the CAA standings.

Courtesy of James Madison University Athletics

of 53 points. Following those tune-up games, JMU faced two tougher opponents, No. 9 Weber State and No. 25 New Hampshire, winning both matchups, 37-24 and 23-21, respectively.

Like Villanova, JMU has a stout run defense, giving up only 31.8 yards per game thus far, which is the second fewest in FCS. Even if the first two blowouts of the season are removed, the Dukes’ defense is only surrendering 61.5 rushing yards per contest on Continued on p. 15

LEVEL Discusses Accessibility Concerns p. 3

OUS Hosts Majors and Minors Fair p. 4

Updates on Formals p. 5

Villanova Should Invest in Greek Housing p. 7

Unsung Hero of Villanova: Daniel Gorman p. 8

Current Abroad Students Share their Experiences p. 9

Midterm Week Survival Guide p. 10

Villanova Student Set to Run Boston Marathon p. 12

Athlete of the Week: Riley Homer p. 14

Women’s Soccer in Free Fall p. 15

2 | The Villanovan

News Opinion Culture Sports

1 6 8 13

PUBLIC SAFETY BLOTTER

VOL. 113 | ISS. 6 www.villanovan.com @thevillanovan

CATE McCUSKER JACK ROBERGE MADISON BURKE ARIANA MEGERIAN SARAH SWEENEY SARAH WISNIEWSKI TINA ARON VIVI MELKONIAN A.J. FEZZA ELENA ROUSE CHLOE MILLER COLIN BEAZLEY BILLY VINCI MOLLY BAKER

Wednesday, October 6, 2021

NEWS

Editor-in-Chief Editor-in-Chief Associate Editor-in-Chief Digital Editor News Editor News Editor Opinion Editor Opinion Editor Culture Editor Culture Editor Culture Editor Sports Editor Sports Editor Copy Desk Chief

MICHAEL BRADLEY Advisor DEENA SMITH Advisor CONTACT villanovan.eic@gmail.com

Theft From a Motor Vehicle October 1 I-1 Main Lot Garage A student reported a theft from her unlocked vehicle that was parked in the I 1 Garage. The value of the stolen items is estimated at $50.00.

Liquor Underage October 2 Main Campus Grounds A large group of resident students, both over and under the age of 21, were found in possession of prohibited quantities of alcohol while on campus.

Theft by Unlawful Taking or Disposition October 1 Dougherty Hall A male resident student attempted to use a counterfeit $100 as payment for a university identification card.

Liquor Underage October 3 St. Monica Hall A male resident student, under the age of 21, appeared in public while intoxicated and was transported by VEMS Ambulance to the hospital for alcohol intoxication.

Liquor Underage October 2 Good Counsel Hall A male resident student, under the age of 21, was evaluated by VEMS and Radnor ALS and transported to the hospital for alcohol intoxication.

Liquor Underage October 3 Good Counsel Hall Three unidentified males were observed with open containers of alcohol while in public.

Factual errors are corrected as soon as they are brought to The Villanovan’s attention. Please send an e-mail to villanovan.eic@gmail.com to report errors.

Confirmed Cumulative Cases as of 8:00 P.M. Tuesday, October 5

Cumulative Cases (from 8/17)

118

Residential Students

14

Estimated Active Cases

66

Non-Residential Students

Continued from p.1

Covino had the opportunity to not only serve as a helper, but also to empower others as well in his role as Group Leader for the Presidential Scholars.

When asked why he decided to be a group leader, Covino explained,“I decided to be a group leader because I wanted to ignite change within my group of friends as well as make memories doing something positive for the surrounding community, however big or small. Also, the fact that anyone can be a leader or member really embraces service unlike some other organizations on campus that have application processes and

“Should my friend ask out the girl he likes even though he’s scared? I think she’s into him too.”

Bro, you only live once. Life is too short to live with regrets. He should definitely go for it. Take a risk and let yourself be happy. If she says no, it’s her loss king.

“What does a man have to do for romance?”

Download tinder and send every person you match with your best pick up line. They will find it so unique and romantic. You will definitely find love this way. You’re welcome <3

“How do you talk to your class crush?”

CORRECTIONS

COVID-19 TRACKER

206

ASK THE VILLANOVAN

9848

Confidence key, and timing is everything. Wait until there is an exam or an essay, then casually time it right so you walk out of class at the same time. Now, here is where things get critical. You then prompt the question, “Hey, have you started studying for this exam yet?” and/or “Hey, what do you think you’re writing about for this essay?” Thus begins a casual conversation where the two of you bond over not knowing anything that’s going on in class, maybe someone dares a joke, and then all of the sudden your crush has escorted you to your next class.

Total Number of Tests (from 8/17)

22

Employees

interviews.”

Covino’s group gave back to the community by helping Power in the Cross Church in Norristown with cleaning and repainting.

However, the impact of their service was so much more than that.

“Although we only painted the interior of a church including classrooms and a kitchen, we did something much bigger than that,” Covino said. “We painted our hearts with the colors of service and brought color not only to that church but to the community that it serves. I can’t help but smile at the thought of the pastor and his community being excited about the work we did.”

Students had the oppor-

“If you had to choose an Elton John song to perform in his style at a sold out show at MSG, what would it be?”

Tiny Dancer, to sing that one line where he says “Hold me closer tiny dancer.”

“What’s the biggest ick of someone you’re dating?”

Someone who talks about themselves too much...

tunity to give back at a variety of other service sites, such as animal shelters, schools and community gardens.

The women’s cross country team gave back by helping the Providence Animal Shelter with gardening work, such as clearing out sticks, laying out mulch and planting flowers. Marcella Krautzel, a sophomore on the team, explained that her favorite part was being able to play with the dogs after.

“It was so fun working outside with all my teammates, but my favorite part was towards the end when after a couple hours of yard work we got to take a couple shelter dogs out on a walk,” she

said.

After completing their service activities, students were asked to reflect upon their work and the difference it made, both for the students personally and for the larger community.

“The most rewarding part was most definitely bringing together people of different backgrounds, beliefs, grade levels and majors to achieve a common goal,” Covino said.

“The reflection that we had afterwards was really powerful and moving, and I feel that there were definitely some hearts changed that day. It is definitely one of the top 3 memories I’ve had at Villanova without a doubt.”

Students volunteered at local service sites in the Greater Philadelphia Area.

Courtesy of Villanova University

Wednesday, October 6, 2021

NEWS

The Villanovan | 3

LEVEL’s D.A.D. Discusses Campus Accessibility Concerns Catherine Browne Staff Writer

On Tuesday evening, LEVEL held a Disabilities Awareness Discussion for students to attend and share accessibility concerns around campus. The executives of LEVEL facilitated this event, and many students attended with open minds to share their own personal concerns and listen to the worries of others.

On campus, LEVEL is comprised of a group of students who work to level the playing field for students with different abilities.

LEVEL fosters its club on the idea of inclusion as it encourages the Villanova community to communicate and create lasting relationships with everyone on campus. This year, the group organized an annual Disabilities Awareness Discussion, also referred to as D.A.D., to give students the ability to let their voices be heard about their accessibility concerns and the presence of inclusion across campus.

The discussion was facilitated by the co-chairs Anna Jankowski, Jessie Williamson and Zac Tipton, who sat among a large circle of attendees. The facilitators prepared a few guiding questions that they asked the group and created a comfortable environment by compiling group rules of respect and acceptance for everyone to feel

safe to share their thoughts.

Jankowski began the conversation by asking the group, “What type of facilities or activities should be more accessible on campus?”

In response, students shared their thoughts on this issue. For example, many believe that stadiums are not accessible to those in a wheelchair, as they are separated from the rest of the student section. Other areas of concern, such as Belle Air Terrace, Sheehan Hall and Sullivan Hall, lack elevators or other easily accessible ways for individuals with physical disabilities to access.

Students also expressed their frustration towards a lack of railings across campus and the incorrect advertisement of other buildings that claim to be accessible. For example, a student shared her own experience of her parents being unable to enter her dorm room on move-in day because the doorway was too small for a wheelchair to pass through. These are only a few examples of the many stories that attendees shared about their own concerns and stories about the lack of accessibility across campus.

The discussion also included a time to speak about students’ feelings towards navigating the social climate at the University and whether or not it feels inclusive. Students shared their honest opinions that organizations such as LEVEL, Special Olympics and

Best Buddies are the first experiences that some students had to meet individuals who have a disability, which many believed “speaks for itself.” One of the co-chairs did admit that as LEVEL is the club for “advocacy and accessibility,” there are many challenges that arise that prohibit people from seeing a complete change being made. That being said, if it is hard for the clubs that put all of their efforts towards making a change in this aspect, it is much more difficult for other clubs to realize their lack of inclusivity.

Students opened up about some places they felt a lack of inclusivity within other clubs and organizations around campus.

The facilitators introduced questions from a survey they sent before the discussion which encouraged a conversation about the assumptions that others may have towards a person with a disability and whether or not they want to be “fixed.” Additionally, conversations about accommodations for those with disabilities, such as needing extra time or a scribe, arose. Specifically, some situations included professors who were unaware of the proper protocol centered around academic accommodations. It was discussed how further steps were needed to be taken to properly accommodate students who are granted those abilities. By sharing these stories

and personal opinions, people were able to hear about the concerns of their fellow classmates and ponder ways to make a change.

Later, President of LEVEL and one of the co-chairs of the event, Williamson, was asked about her thoughts on the discussion, as she believes that “these types of conversations are so incredibly necessary in order to facilitate change.” She continued to explain how “excited and inspired [she felt] to see so many people interested and invested [in] making that change happen. The way so many students opened up and shared their thoughts and feelings was amazing.”

All of the hard work and dedication that Williamson, along with the other people who allowed for this event to happen, including the head of LEVEL Greg Hannah, was very evident in this discussion. As an attendee, the environment felt safe, comfortable and accepting. It seemed as though it gave a lot of students the chance to be heard, which they may not find anywhere else. It opened people’s eyes to some of the obstacles that their classmates face daily that some may not be aware of. This environment gave students a chance to listen and to be heard and give them the opportunity to make the changes needed on campus to allow everyone to make the best of their experience here at the University.

Villanova Distributes Flu Vaccine to Students via Clinic Lydia McFarlane Staff Writer

Last week, the University hosted its seasonal flu vaccine clinic. Since it is the beginning of flu season, and we are still in the midst of an ongoing pandemic, the University thought it imperative to bring an accessible flu shot clinic to campus for students and faculty/staff.

According to the CDC, September and October are the best months to get vaccinated against the flu, as these early fall months begin the flu season for the following fall and winter months.

Like most vaccines, the flu vaccine can help prevent the severity of the virus if one were to become ill with it.

“While some people who get a flu vaccine may still get sick, flu vaccination has been shown in several studies to reduce severity of illness,” the CDC said.

On Sept. 22, the Community First team sent an email detailing the clinic. The memo for the flu shots was sent the day the clinic was starting, catching many students off guard. It read, “The four-day seasonal flu vaccine clinic starts today in Vasey Hall Theatre.” The dates and times listed in the email were as follows: Wednesday, Sept. 22 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 23 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Friday, Sept.24 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Monday, Sept. 27 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Although it was short notice, many students and staff members made their way over to Vasey during the four-day period

to receive this season’s flu vaccine.

In addition to the scheduling and location details listed in the email sent from Community First, the cost of the vaccine was also included. The same Community First email stated, “The cost is free for faculty and staff (please still bring your insurance card) as part of the annual seasonal flu program sponsored by the Office of Human Resources. The cost of the vaccine is $28 for students

(payment can be made via cash, check or Wildcard) and many health insurance plans are accepted.”

Many students were surprised to see that there would be a charge for the flu vaccine, as many pharmacies give out the shots for free, and the COVID-19 vaccines were free to recipients nationwide.

One student commented on the flu shot coming with a price, saying, “When we as students are asked

The clinic was held in Vasey Hall from Sept. 22 to Sept. 27.

Courtesy of Villanova University

to get a flu vaccine to protect ourselves and the Villanova community, they are also asking us to pay $28 for something that is free elsewhere and serving the same purpose [of protecting ourselves and other students from illness] as the COVID-19 vaccine which was also free.”

Sophomore Jordan Mastrodomenico detailed her experience getting the flu vaccine. She went to get hers around 1:30 pm on Friday, Sept. 24. She had previously filled out the consent forms necessary for getting the flu shot, having printed them out and filled them out manually before arriving at Vasey Hall Theatre. However, for students and faculty who had not filled the consent forms out previously, they were still able to fill their forms out upon arrival.

After giving the pharmacist her filled out paperwork and medical insurance card, Mastrodomenico was asked if she had been feeling sick recently or if she had received any other vaccines recently, both of which she answered no. Jordan then received the shot. The whole process was over within 10 minutes.

“The process was very easy,” Mastrodomenico said.

However, she was surprised that she did not have to pay the $28 upon receiving her flu shot.

“I was surprised about not having to pay because of the email being misleading,” she said.

While short lived, the flu vaccine clinic the University held was a success at vaccinating many community members and protecting some against the imminent flu season.

4 | The Villanovan

NEWS

Wednesday, October 6, 2021

Office of Undergraduate Studies Sponsors Annual Majors and Minors Fair Owen Hewitt Staff Writer

The Office for Undergraduate Studies sponsored a majors fair for undergraduate College of Liberal Arts and Sciences students on the Riley Ellipse this Thursday, Sept. 30.

The fair offered an opportunity for students to interact with professors and upperclassmen students in a variety of fields. A total of 31 majors were represented at the fair, ranging from cognitive and behavioral neuroscience to economics. An additional 19 minors and concentrations not offered as majors were also present, including studio art, creative writing and cybersecurity.

Freshmen in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences were given a folder with four pieces of paper in it.

One was simply a list of the majors, minors and concentrations available within the college, and one was a smaller piece from the Office for Undergraduate Students reminding students to consult the academic handbook to view requirement lists for various majors. Another was a handout containing a list of questions that were suggested starting points for students.

The most important paper in the file for College of Liberal Arts and Sciences freshman was a worksheet that had to be stamped at three different tables from

around the fair.

This form was assigned to be completed in each advising course across the College’s firstyear advising program. Students needed a stamp from a major the student was interested in pursuing, another from a minor or concentration that the student was interested in pursuing and lastly from a major that they had never previously considered. Accompanying the spaces for stamps were three questions corresponding to the category each stamp fell into.

Freshman Anna Hennessey said that she thought the handout was beneficial to the overall experience.

“I thought it was helpful,” Hennessey said. “I liked the entire folder they gave us full of the information packets.”

Many of the upperclassmen working at tables either volunteered or were contacted by professors within their departments. Senior Ryan Weicht, who was at the Communication program’s table, said that the Department sourced people from the peer mentoring program to connect with underclassmen at the fair.

“I am a peer advisor for the Communication Department, which is actually a newly started program, we’re super excited to get started with it, and [to] get some new people,” Weicht said.

“As well as helping out younger students, we help out with general communication department things, and so they asked us to

come and volunteer at the majors fair.”

The fair is very important to the different departments that it consists of, especially those that are typically smaller areas of study. Chair of the Philosophy Department John Carvalho said that the majors fair allows his department to inform a wide range of students about what it means to major or minor in philosophy.

“I get to talk to people who are just curious about philosophy,” Carvalho said. “Most people haven’t taken it in high school, so their first exposure is when they get here. I can give them a broader picture of what’s involved in it.

Whether we get a lot of majors out of this – that would be a great thing, a lot of people talk to me about minoring in philosophy – but it’s a way to begin to expand the franchise a little bit, and to be able to introduce a broader group of people to what we do.”

That was the major theme of the day, as students were able to gain knowledge of their options within the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and examine different possibilities for their paths forward.

The fair wrapped up around 4:15 p.m., although representatives from some departments stayed around their tables later to chat with students past the prescribed end time.

Students were encouraged to attend the major’s fair to learn about programs in CLAS. Courtesy of NovaOUS

CAT Celebrates National Coffee Day with Free Drinks described it as “sweet, caramelly and definitely tasting like the Girl Kathryn Fair Scout cookie flavor.”

Staff Writer

These coffee varieties are part of Coca-Cola and Dunkin’s collaborative line of “Dunkin’

Fifty percent of college stu- Anytime’’ bottled beverages that dents drink caffeine daily, and cof- can be purchased in retail stores. fee leads as the overall preferred

If you missed it, The Girl drink on college campuses. CAT Scout line also currently sells utilized this statistic and created S’mores and Thin Mint flavors an event to celebrate the beverage and can be found at Target. last week.

Coca-Cola coffee infuses

National Coffee Day was the taste of Coke with Brazilian celebrated on Sept. 29, and the coffee and comes in a variety of Villanova Campus Activity Team flavors such as vanilla and cara(CAT) organized free Dunkin’ mel.

Donuts iced coffee at the Oreo last However, this unorthodox Wednesday from 12:30-2:30 p.m. flavor pairing did not appeal to all,

CAT advertised the event as some students were unsure of on their Instagram page encourag- the new line of Coca-Cola coffees. ing students to get “more espresso Gabby Menza explained that, and less depresso.”

“Coke and coffee are two very dif Members of CAT distribut- ferent beverages, and the carboned bottled iced coffee, with flavors ation doesn’t sound good to me; I including the new Girl Scout line’s usually prefer my coffee without coconut caramel coffee, as well as anything in it.”

Coca-Cola’s new line of coffee.

International Coffee Day

With midterms approachwas also celebrated this week on ing and caffeine consumption on Oct. 1. Both holidays came into campus peaking, students were being to celebrate the love for a faeager to accept free coffee. vorite caffeinated beverage, as well

Many students may have as the millions of coffee growers experienced disappointment as the around the world. International supply of coffee ran out quickly Coffee Day began in Japan in the and students who came later to the 1980s and has become an exciting event were only able to snag the day for coffee lovers. last flavors left over.

Many other establishments

Jenna Dugan tried the offered free or discounted coffee coconut caramel flavor and

for National Coffee Day. Starbucks is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year and made the day extra special. Customers could bring in a reusable cup of up to 20 ounces and receive a free cup of Pike Roast coffee. At Dunkin’ locations, a free iced or hot coffee was presented with any purchase, and Krispy Kreme offered a free coffee and donut of the customers’ choice.

Several convenience stores, such as Wawa or 7/11, also offered coffee deals with a purchase, and Wawa gave away free coffee to educators all week long as part of its “Cheers to the Classroom” initiative. Panera Bread gave free coffee to parents on Wednesday, and customers that registered for their coffee subscription starting Oct. 1 get free coffee through the end of the year.

Students from CAT hand out coffee to students during the midterm week.

Courtesy of CAT’s Instagram

Wednesday, October 6, 2021

The Villanovan | 5

NEWS

Formals This Fall: An Update from OSI

zations to plan and have to replan.

It’s too much.”

Brown also explained that another issue with formals is that

Unfortunately, Villanova he has come to find they turn into life still cannot be exactly as it “giant ticket parties.” used to be. Formals, one of the

“That’s not the direction we highlights of the year for many want to be taking it either,” he said. student organizations, are going to “I don’t want student organizations look very different this year. to lose focus of why they got started

The Villanovan was able to begin with. I want whoever is a to speak with JJ Brown, Director part of the group to be able to go of Student Involvement, to discuss and take advantage of being togeththe plan for formals this semester. er. But you shouldn’t join a student

Brown explained that he organization just because they hold knows how important formals are a formal.” to students, but he cited a number Greek life, however, has of reasons why we cannot go back been able to have formals. Many to normal formal festivities just sororities have had formals over yet. the past few weeks.

“I hear the students’ de Brown acknowledged that, sire to do formals,” Brown said. but he explained that the differ“There’s still too many complexience is in the organizations themties related to the pandemic.” selves.

He explained that transpor- “A big reason why these tation, due to a bus shortage, is a chapters formed were for social prevalent challenge with planning reasons,” he said. “They’re social by formals and is an issue that has nature. They bring students togethalso affected other student activier, and there’s philanthropy, service, ties. and social components for students

Additionally, the regular to get to know and support each formal venues that students freother. The starting point between quently used pre-pandemic are in student organizations and then fraa variety of locations with differternity and sorority chapters is very ent COVID restrictions. different.”

“We can’t do formals as

As of right now, it is still up they were,” Brown said. “I can’t in the air as to how formals will look have individual student organifor student organizations this semeszations reaching out to Paddy ter.

Whacks and Moshulu. They’re in

Brown has gathered a different counties with different committee of student organization rules. I don’t want student organi- leaders to help plan for formals, but Cate McCusker Editor-in-Chief

no concrete plans or dates have been set yet.

“The idea is not to take formals away,” he assured me, “but to provide other options knowing that cards we are dealt with. We can’t

zero back to 2019. The pandemic has changed everything in so many different ways. What I’m trying to focus on is the problem right now and let’s see how that goes.”

Paddy Whacks is a popular venue for fomals.

Courtesy of Trip Advisor

Hiring Meetup Informs About DEI in Workforce

organizers emphasized the aim of informing students about the Jackie Thomas resources and opportunities availStaff Writer able to support diversity in the workforce and job search.

The Villanova Career Cen- Associate Director of Cater held its fifth annual Inclusive reer Development Jhaakira Jacobs Hiring Meetup on Sept. 28. Stufurther explained the event’s imdents had the opportunity to meet portance in highlighting employwith representatives from 15 emers’ focus and posture toward DEI. ployers across a variety of fields,

“We have a changing, more focusing specifically on inclusivity diverse workforce, and employers and efforts toward diversity, equity need to recognize that they play a and inclusion (DEI). role in breaking down barriers for

In particular, employers underrepresented students during shared with attendees their attithe recruitment and hiring protudes toward and opportunities cess,” Jacobs said. concerning diverse hiring and

Beyond company reprerecruiting practices, resources sentatives providing overviews of for employees from diverse backtheir diversity practices, the meetgrounds and the meaning of diver- up also importantly served as an sity to their companies in general. avenue for conversation between

The event was organized employers and students. to coincide with the University’s

“It’s a two-way street, and Inclusion Week (Sept. 27 through students need to know how to Oct. 1), during which organizaask the right questions,” Jacobs tions and departments across cam- said, referring to students’ task of pus ran programming centered investigating DEI resources for around diversity and inclusion. themselves in job and interview

Alongside the Universisearches. ty Career Center, the Inclusive

To help students start these Hiring Meetup was sponsored by conversations, the Career Center the Office of Diversity, Equity and provided attendees with a guide on Inclusion, the Center for Access, how to evaluate an organization’s Success and Achievement (CASA), commitment to diversity, equity the Office of Intercultural Affairs, and inclusion before the event. the Office of Disability SerThe guide included tips on where vices, VU Pride, the Anne Welsh to look for a commitment to DEI, McNulty Institute for Women’s like company diversity statements, Leadership, the Office of Interna- leadership, resource groups and tional Student Services and Learn- recruitment strategies. ing Support Services.

It also listed suggestions of

A wide range of sponsors questions to ask on these points, helped spread the word to the touching on corporate culture and student population. Awareness long-term goals or plans toward was a crucial part of the event, as

developing a diverse workforce and cultivating an inclusive workplace.

Attendees were grateful for the opportunity to look at the job search from a different perspective, with diversity commitment under the microscope.

Sophomores Juliana Kwon and Michael Tilker attended the Inclusive Hiring Meetup hoping to learn more about career opportunities generally, along with a specific focus on corporate diversity values.

“I just transferred to the business school from the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, and I came to learn more about employer culture,” Kwon said.

“I think this is a great way to find what opportunities are out there, both in terms of diversity and

more generally,” Tilker added.

The organizers of the meetup made a conscious effort to lend a relaxed atmosphere to the event to emphasize meaningful dialogue between employees and student attendees over typical job fair formalities. As such, the dress code was “campus attire,” and students were encouraged to explore different tables as they saw fit to ask questions and hear representatives’ explanations of their company’s DEI efforts.

The Inclusive Hiring Meetup is one of many programs and events the Career Center offers throughout the year for anyone interested in learning about career development and opportunities.

Students can check the Handshake platform to find out more.

The Career Center encouraged students to attend the event.

Courtesy of VU Career Center

6 | The Villanovan

OPINION

Wednesday, October 6, 2021

OPINION

Students Enjoy “White” Play at the Villanova Theater Isabella Balian Staff Writer Continued from p.1

people wanting to see more, learn more and hear more. The actors and actresses were very expressive which made the play feel real, leaving the audience to react on the spot.”

Max Cabral felt similarly to Bonnie, saying that “‘White’ was overall good and I really enjoyed it.

I was not expecting it to be as eye opening as it was. It deals with lots of issues like racism, sexism, gender, social stereotypes and many more.

It can actually make you laugh at some parts but uncomfortable at others, which I thought was really cool.”

Ijames is a playwright, director and educator and serves as an Associate Professor of Theatre at Villanova. In an interview with production dramaturg, Alison

Scarmella Baker, Ijames said that his play was based on a true story: the Donelle Woolford/Joe Scanian controversy at the Whitney Museum of American Art in New York City.

“I hope the audience will consider where they can make a little room for someone they perhaps have been ignoring,” Ijames said about the takeaway of the play.

“I want the audience to think about the places in their life where they are causing harm or even oppressing someone. And then I hope the play will make them change. Plays affect individuals which feels insignificant, however individuals vote, they consume, they can make a difference in the lives of the people around them and that’s the power of theater.”

I definitely think that this goal was accomplished and made students contemplate their effect on society regarding racism and identity tourism.

Poster for James Ijames’ “White”.

Courtesy of Villanova University

Apply the Power of “Deep Work” to Academics John Angelella Staff Writer

It has been about eight months since I read “Deep Work” by Cal Newport, yet the methodologies outlined in the book resonate with me stronger by the day. To better understand the title and practice, let’s examine how famous thinkers leveraged deep work to produce some of the greatest projects of all time. The first example is Carl Jung, the Swiss psychiatrist and psychoanalyst who pioneered research on archetypes, the collective unconscious and synchronicity, just to name a few. Panning the shores of Lake Zurich may land your gaze on an ivy-covered, stone castle, aptly named Bollingen Tower. It was built in 1923 by Jung himself and would be the birth center of his most influential work. Within this mystical fortress, Jung performed what Cal Newport has coined, “deep work,” or a state of intense, task-oriented focus entirely free from distraction. While neither I nor Cal are suggesting you retreat into the woods of Zurich, it is important to recognize that the concentration — inducing environment produced by Jung in Bollingen tower appears to be the common denominator among the greatest thinkers in history. In the following sections, I will elaborate on the benefits of long-form concentration and time blocking in addition to outlining the strategy I use to consistently study 25 hours per week.

Imagine you are working on a complex problem, and your progress has come to a standstill. You are then asked to withdraw to a remote cabin for one week with nothing but the basic necessities, a notepad and pen. What if I told you Bill Gates willingly partakes in this activity two times per year, and it is thanks to these very retreats that we now have Internet Explorer. What is the trend here? Great thinkers create environments that allow them to hone their

concentration. The Google definition proves sufficient here; concentration is “the action or power of focusing one’s attention or mental effort.”

Unfortunately, we are presently at the point on our historical timeline in which this practice proves most difficult. From the moment you arise, your attention is at the mercy of digital hitmen such as your cell phone, computer, iPad or smart watch, who are all vigorously competing to claim the prize of putting a bullet through your attention.

Returning to our earlier examples, structuring your work environment to avoid these hitmen is the first step in regaining your concentration superpower. It is here that I will offer my first piece of advice: There should be no distracting technology in your workspace. Per the advice of James Clear in his book, “Atomic Habits,” one should eliminate the paths of least resistance, as your brain is naturally inclined towards the path that exhausts the least energy. In this instance, the path of least resistance is pausing your chemistry homework 15 times in one hour for a quick glance at your device. These are the seemingly benign actions that deal the devastating blow to your attention and arrest you in the stage that Newport coined “shallow work.”

Consider the following scenario and note the shameful light it casts on our present behavior. Imagine Jung strolling into Bollingen Tower for a weekend retreat to ponder the nature of consciousness. But you are informed that, while pondering, he is sneaking quick glimpses at his device. His recent post is not getting the number of likes he had hoped.

Fast forward a few minutes, and the eerily quiet study room is interrupted by the voice of Charli D’Amelio. Is he scrolling TikTok? When applied to Jung, one can quickly see how ridiculous these behaviors appear.

Yet, this is the insubstantial reality for most individuals under the age of 21. How can one honestly expect to produce inspiring work with such a

fragmented attention?

Your focus is like a muscle. To grow, it requires deliberate training.

Upon first effort, it is unlikely you can focus your attention on a task for any extended period of time without severe agitation and crippling rumination. In the following paragraph, assume you’ve taken my earlier advice and your workspace is entirely free from distraction. It is now just you and the work. The first hurdle in this race to concentration mastery is embracing discomfort. While performing a cognitively difficult task, it is expected you become mentally uncomfortable. In these moments, your brain recognizes this irritation and attempts to relieve it through a variety of coping mechanisms. These usually come in the form of quitting the task entirely, reaching for your phone to dampen the pain, or resorting to an addictive behavior to override the suffering. Consider how many of these escape hatches are awaiting to engulf you into the underground of unproductiveness. Entertaining technology, sugary food, nicotine and a wide span of other indulgences are eager to alleviate your troubles the moment you face difficulty. It is no wonder why many great philosophers have embraced asceticism. It often requires extreme measures to produce such deep thought. However, you must realize that once you have mastered the craft of deep work, not only will you have more free time, but you will also be far ahead of your distracted peers.

Now that we have uncovered some benefits of deep work, I’ll elaborate on how I put this into practice.

I vividly recall the second semester of sophomore year sending me into a spiraling depression. It seemed a constant cloud of work was looming over me alongside this internal voice providing near constant reminders that I should be trying harder. When I examined this feeling closely in May of that year, I came to the conclusion that the last five months of suffering could be solved rather simply.

I needed to regain control of my life by allotting a certain amount of time to dedicated studying, and once that box was checked, I would allow myself to have fun. Hard work is the common denominator that cannot be ignored. I should note that the previous insights are rather obvious yet taking the steps to “be on top of things” proves a willing opponent we face each day.

Thus, after what was something like a bad breakup with my GPA that semester, I had the chance to rebound this past summer with a good performance on the medical college admission test (MCAT). What better way to trial these practices than on the hardest admissions test in the world? So, I took the plunge. From the second week of May until the last day of summer, I arose at 5:30 a.m. each morning and completed five, one hour work blocks utilizing the Pomodoro study method. This entails setting a timer, studying completely undistracted for one hour, then taking a ten minute break. I repeated this process five times each day and religiously tracked my progress and methods in a journal that I am still equally as dedicated to today. Note that when employing this method, it is best to start with only one or two work blocks, then titrate up once your concentration muscle gets stronger.

A surprising element of this transformation was how addicted I became to the system itself. It was the small highs each day of hearing the timer go off and slashing off another hour in the journal that provided a genuine feeling of pleasure that no Instagram, YouTube or food binge could ever match. Compounding these wins was a newfound ability to truly enjoy my free time. Once the five hours were complete, the looming black cloud of work disappeared and I could happily live in the moment, free from the nagging voice of unrealized potential that had previously decimated my mental health. It is with this system that I escaped the despair of distraction and reclaimed a life of meaning.

Wednesday, October 6, 2021

OPINION

EDITORIAL BOARD

LETTERS TO THE EDITORS

The Villanovan encourages all members of the Villanova community to voice their opinions. LetEditor-in-Chief ters to the editors may be submitted via e-mail to villanovan.eic@gmail.com. Letters must not Associate Editor-in-Chief exceed 500 words and must be signed. No anonymous letters will be published. All submissions beOpinion Editor come property of The Villanovan and are subject Opinion Editor to editing for clarity and space.

CATE McCUSKER Editor-in-Chief JACK ROBERGE MADISON BURKE TINA ARON VIVI MELKONIAN

The Villanovan | 7

POLICY

The unsigned editorial that appears is the opinion of The Villanovan as determined by the majority of the Editorial Board. Other columns, letters and artwork represent the opinions of their authors and do not necessarily reflect the position of The Villanovan.

Villanova Should Invest in Greek Housing Lindsay Gallagher Staff Writer

I’m a tour guide on campus, and I often get asked what Greek life is like at Villanova without sorority or fraternity houses. I love my chapter, but what I’d love even more would be to live in an on-campus sorority house so I could go to sleep each night and wake up every morning surrounded by my favorite group of women.

Fraternity parties are a staple weekend event for Villanova students and have always taken place off-campus. While the thought of loud, messy parties in our backyard might make you cringe, frat parties taking place on campus instead of in the surrounding neighborhoods could actually be beneficial. Villanova should invest in Greek housing to make frat parties safer and fairer and to make campus life more fun.

Ending the system by which one needs to request a ride or an invite to a frat party would level the playing field for who gets to attend.

Most often, the women from so-

rorities – which are majority white and wealthy – receive the most invitations. Because fraternities can only afford to rent small apartments or houses off-campus, their party capacities are extremely limited.

Fraternity members are then unable to invite their friends that aren’t fraternity or sorority members (two-thirds of the men and half of the women at Villanova), whereas a larger party space would allow more people to party and make difficult decisions about who to invite a little bit easier.

On-campus frat parties would be much safer than the off-campus parties we have now.

Parties within walking-distance would prevent the occasional car accidents that designated drivers get into by speeding or packing 10-plus people into a sedan. Fraternities do not publicize the address of parties to prevent them from getting out of hand, and women attending fraternity parties are already in a vulnerable position because they are a guest in an unfamiliar space. This creates an imbalance of power and a breeding ground for sexual misconduct and excessive drinking.

At the University of Pennsylvania, fraternities and other student groups can register their parties and receive reimbursement from the student life office to hire professional security and bartenders for up to four events per semester and can pay to host additional events. Professional bartenders reduce the risk of drinks being contaminated with drugs and professional security guards checking IDs would limit underage drinking, which combined could prevent sexual assault and alcohol-related injuries.

Even community members in the Bryn Mawr area have expressed their desire for Villanova to build Greek housing. In 2018, Lower Merion Township conducted a survey of Villanova students and employees and residents of Lower Merion to find common pain points and goals in our relationship. One Lower Merion resident suggested that the Villanova administration “allow a sorority & fraternity ‘row,’ rather than disgusting homes scattered throughout the community. National fraternities are very serious about their houses, so if the

fraternity houses were OFFICIAL through Nationals rather than just a large home in Bryn Mawr… students would be more closely watched, not just by Villanova, but by the national fraternity executive board.”

Where could this frat row be located? Potentially Southwest Campus -- Moriarty, O’Dwyer and Delurey Hall are widely considered the most undesirable places to live, but this would quickly change if they were converted into fraternity or sorority houses. The University also owns parts of Aldwyn Lane, the road behind the Wildcat Path, that could develop into high-quality Greek housing.

Imagine walking to Villanova’s Greek Row on a sunny Saturday and seeing outdoor philanthropy events and tailgates, or imagine a sorority recruitment where girls could actually run “home” to their sisters instead of just meeting up and giving hugs at the Oreo. Investing in Greek housing would allow Villanova and our surrounding townships to create a safer and more equitable environment that’s also more fun.

The Effects of Public Policy at Villanova

Rescue Plan that was passed earlier this year was the first major instance where a majority of the benefits such as the $1,400 stimulus checks and extending the unemployment

It’s no exaggeration to say benefits (which just ended earlier last that this school year has felt very month) were unnecessary, or at the different compared to last year, when very least, could have been trimmed COVID-19 persisted as a significant down. This bill would have made and unchecked threat across the sense in the spring of last year, but globe. Most of these differences I this is no longer the case. While at believe are for the benefit of the Vil- first glance this may seem like an lanova community, as we are on the extra sigh of relief for many Amerverge of returning to the normalcy ican families, this form of reckless of college life. However, one aspect spending will only hurt the economy of campus that I’m sure the vast ma- in the long run. jority of students – including myself With the authorized emer– have issues with is the quality of gency use of Pfitzer and Moderna the dining hall and reduced hours of COVID-19 vaccines in December service. What is truly jarring about and mass availability at the start of this situation is that this was one of spring, there has been ample time the areas of campus life I felt was for those to get theirs or make a handled very well last year, during a risk assessment based on their own time when the threat of COVID-19 personal circumstances or beliefs. was at its greatest. However, this Yet, the Biden administration instead becomes less baffling when looking at promoted mixed messaging about one aspect of the realm of American the vaccines by stating time and time politics: disastrous public policy. again that there is a need to “protect The four years of the Trump the vaccinated from the unvacciadministration resulted in about $7.8 nated,’’ despite that being the point trillion being added to the national of receiving the vaccine in the first debt, according to The Washington place. This has led to many states Post, a feat that is a rational comdelaying reopenings of businesses or plaint about the former president, imposing restrictions not on the basis even among members of his own of science but on needless fear. In party. The Biden administration has addition, businesses that are attemptnot done any better. It is worse in ing to open are facing labor shortagfact, as Biden is projected to spend es due to the government promoting nearly $10 trillion in his first year vaccine hesitancy and essentially alone. The $1.9 trillion American paying many to stay home without Steven Makino Staff Writer

offering any sort of incentive to go back to work.

The argument can be made that this is due to people wanting to work for a fair wage rather than “starvation wages.” I agree that the federal minimum wage rate is unacceptable and that it should be raised to at least $11 per hour. However, this commonly thrown rebuttal neglects the fact that according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the amount of hourly paid workers that earned the minimum wage or less was about 1.5 percent of more than 73.3 million workers in 2020.

Decreasing from 1.9 percent in the previous year, it’s safe to say that government spending is to blame for the labor shortages across the country and on our own campus.

To make matters worse, the excessive spending of President Joe Biden has seen inflation continue to rise in recent months on many common goods with no signs of going away. The August Jobs Report highlights this problem as while about 10 million jobs are open in the United States, the number of jobs created was 235,000. A number that missed the mark of economists’ predictions of 725,000 jobs, this horrible statistic is due to the Biden administration eliminating the incentive structure for Americans going back to work. Instead of a natural recovery that should have happened once the vaccines were available, Biden’s COVID-19 policy and massive

spending have delayed this economic recovery and put the U.S. in a state of inflation and in the likes of an “artificial coma” for far longer than needed.

Labor shortages and the supply chain issues mentioned by University President Peter M. Donohue, O.S.A., Ph.D. during his Q&A at Family Weekend can be blamed on these reckless policy decisions and do not seem like they will go away anytime soon. The Democratic Party’s $3.5 trillion budget resolution bill would effectively serve to make inflation concerns worse, as the total amount of spending this year alone would rival what Trump added to the national debt during his whole term. President Biden has also been wanting to raise the corporate tax on businesses to 28%, which would only serve to force companies to pass on the burden of this increase to consumers by raising prices, at a time where inflation is already an issue.

Villanova is not blame free in this matter, as with the costly price tag to attend this school, its wages to staff members should increase as well as to student workers who may need the money to help pay for their attendance here. However, much of the blame for reduced hours of Cova, late night, convenience stores, as well as the quality of the food resides in the current administration and its lack of knowledge (or disregard) for the fundamentals of economics.

8 | The Villanovan

Wednesday, October 6, 2021

CULTURE

CULTURE

Unsung Hero of Villanova: Senior Daniel Gorman Bailey Quinn Staff Writer

If you were to ask people at Villanova who the truest Villanovan is—who embodies our virtues and commits himself to his community and his friends—there is no doubt that Daniel Gorman would be in the top three on the list, if not at the very top.

Gorman is a senior Marketing and Business Analytics Major with minors in Engineering Entrepreneurship and Creative Writing. He is the President of both Pastorals and the all-male a cappella group “Vocal Minority” (their tagline being “Villanova’s chillest acapella group”). Gorman is also a passionate and well-loved member of Villanova Student Theatre (VST) and Villanova Student Musical Theatre (VSMT).

He has been an active participant in NOVAdance, and his work-study role in Campus Ministry. This past August, he was an Orientation Counselor and absolutely loved the experience. Despite the heat, Gorman sits at the Oreo, sun in his eyes, and even after a tiring but rewarding Day of Service, he is thrilled to be there as the sun sets on a quiet Saturday afternoon.

When asked who was his biggest inspiration, Gorman gushes about his family. With three other siblings, he finds so much to be inspired by within his family. He cites his parents as the reason he has become the person he is today, and he proudly describes everything his siblings have done because they push him every day to become and to grow more. In spite of their varying interests and personalities,

Gorman insists his siblings constantly push him to be better, and he is beyond grateful to be surrounded by such loving and wonderful people.

When asked how he surprised himself in his experience at Villanova, he thinks for a moment before saying a close friend of his owns a pair of socks featuring the statement, “Turns out I’m tough as sh*t.” He laughs as he says it, apologizing for the language, but insists that it is the truth. Coming into freshman year, in hindsight, he was naive and overwhelmed by the desire to please others above all else.

Now, Gorman considers himself tougher and more capable than he could have ever anticipated, and strives to take care of himself and be confident in what he wants out of life. Still, he has maintained the unwavering desire to love everyone and every opportunity for growth in his life’s path.

Daniel then answered how working from love has shaped him as a person and affected his college experience.

He described love as, “Desiring wellness for others and yourself ” and went on to say the many ways in which love from others has encouraged him to branch out in ways he never thought possible. By extension, he found that working from love brought joy to himself and everyone around him in such a beautiful way.

If anything were to be his legacy here at Villanova, Gorman would want it to be his welcoming spirit. He says so much of his experience here has been fueled by the encouragement of others, by the love others have given to him time and time again. He claims a friend’s

Gorman smiles during his time abroad this past summer.

Courtesy of Daniel Gorman

encouragement led him to pursue a Creative Writing minor, something he would have never thought he would be the right person for otherwise. Now, he loves writing poetry and acknowledges that while he may not be the best, he enjoys it so much. But, he thinks he would not have been able to if not for the same nudge of a friend seeing what he could not. For future generations, he not only wants the same amount of support and encouragement for them, but more of it.

Finally, Gorman discussed what advice he wanted to give to the Villanova community. Whether it be the incoming classes of 2025, transfer students or departing seniors, what would he want for them to take away from reading this interview? He looked up once again thoughtfully and said he wanted more empathy. Given all that he and we at Villanova have experienced— not only as students in a pandemic, but also as people on Earth living our lives in these trying times—he said that he wished for everyone to be a little kinder, a little softer and

a little more empathetic with each other. Everyone is struggling in their own way, everyone is surviving something, and if we all treat each other with a little more kindness, it can go a long way.

Gorman is not just wellloved for his jovial attitude and his singing voice, but also for his undaunted approach to giving love to everyone. Regardless of where he goes or what he does post-grad, Gorman is the kind of person we all strive to be every day—caring, giving, loving and welcoming to all. His kindness has had a rippling effect that has been felt and will continue to be felt for generations of Villanovans. In the words of Mr. Rogers, a popular icon Gorman has looked up to all his life, “Love isn’t a state of perfect caring. It is an active noun like struggle. To love someone is to strive to accept that person exactly the way he or she is, right here and now.” Gorman has left Villanovans feeling a little less nervous, a little more empathetic and a little more loved, no matter where we have been in our life paths.

The Where and How For All Your Fitness Needs

Chloe Miller Co- Culture Editor

We are reaching that point in the semester where the Belle Aire chicken fingers and fries and the Spit late night are finally starting to take a toll on our bodies. Maybe you are wanting to start working out or getting into a new routine but have no idea where to start.

Planet Fitness coined the term “gymtimidation” and, as most people know, it is embarrassingly true. Walking into the Davis Center may make you break out into cold sweats before you even begin to work out just by how threatened you might feel. This is totally normal. If you are looking for more inclusive group settings to work out in, there are a multitude of places on and around campus to take advantage of.

Unable to get off campus to take a class? Villanova has group exercise classes in Canon Hall at The Commons. The Recreation page on Villanova’s website has a full calendar of workouts for the month. Canon hall offers spin, power yoga, strength training, body toning, cardio kickbox and

It currently has both online livestreams and in-person classes, so one can fit it into their schedule at any time.

Pilates fans can get a great workout at [solidcore] in the Bryn Mawr Village Shopping Center. [solidcore] offers multiple targeted body workout classes focused on strengthening and redefining pilates.

The Main Line also has a plethora of options for workout classes. There is both an Orangetheory Fitness and a Soulcycle in Ardmore. Orangetheory is SoulCycle is a popular workout class and has a studio in Ardmore. known for its HIIT total body Courtesy of SoulCycle workouts. Soulcycle blew up in the mid-2010s and is one of the most popular spin class studios. There is more exercise classes. rently offering a student discount

Buying tickets for the where one can get 25 days of class- one located in Suburban Square, right off the Ardmore SEPTA train classes in The Commons is quick es for $25. and easy. Email Fitness and Recre- “Bulldog yoga has changed station.

Staying fit in college is ation Coordinator Gina Palermo how I work out this semester,” both challenging and daunting. for more information on the class sophomore Alex Tessendorf said. options Villanova offers. Once the “It is super easy to get to, the class- Villanova and the surrounding area are full of fantastic and enexercise package is confirmed, one es are fantastic and the instructors joyable options to make working can sign up for any class the school are amazing and so welcoming.” out a reward, rather than a chore. offers in the studios.

Another great option just Workout classes can be a great way

Bulldog Yoga is a great a short walk away from campus to bond with peers and friends. option for yogis on campus. Lois Barre3 on Lancaster Avenue in Whether or not you stay on camcated in Villanova Center next to Rosemont Center. Offering $10 pus or choose to adventure to an First Watch, Bulldog Yoga offers new client classes, Barre3 incoroff-campus studio, there are plenty multiple types of yoga classes only porates yoga, cardio and strength of options to stay fit and have fun. a short walk off-campus. It is curtraining into one unique workout.

Wednesday, October 6, 2021

CULTURE

The Villanovan | 9

Current Villanova Abroad Students Share Experiences A.J. Fezza Co-Culture Editor

Most Villanova students are currently making the most of their fall semesters in the typical way: admiring the fall foliage, hanging out with friends at the Oreo and spending nights at Kelly’s Taproom. But for one group of 27 students, this fall semester is unlike any other.

The University currently has students studying abroad in the United Kingdom, Spain, Denmark, Italy and the Czech Republic. Villanova is currently not offering its own programs this fall, but the University has been able to identify semester partner programs for its students to attend.

The Villanovan has reached out to these students to hear about their experiences abroad so far.

The United Kingdom has the largest number of Villanova study abroad students at the moment, with students in London, Cambridge, Edinburgh and St. Andrews.

Three students from the Villanova Honors Program’s Politics, Philosophy and Economics Cohort are studying at the INSTEP program at Cambridge University. This program has a total of just 13 students, with the other 10 coming from institutions like Tulane University, Wake Forest University and Trinity College. Unlike the majority of study abroad students, those in the INSTEP program are not integrated with the regular student body, but instead take classes with each other.

One student in the INSTEP program is junior Noah Swan, who majors in Mathematics.

“For the classes, three of my five classes have three people or fewer in them,” Swan said. “It’s a much more intimate experience with classes that magnifies participation in class over a lecture style. It’s a bit of an adjustment, but it’s something I really enjoy.”

About an hour south of Cambridge, junior Kendall Hayes is participating in the London Internship Program at Boston University’s London location. Hayes spoke to The Villanovan about her transition to college life across the pond.

“I definitely experienced a sense of culture shock coming to London that I wasn’t expecting,” Hayes said. “Things just work differently in Europe. I can’t really explain it. Something as simple as terminology or the way the grocery stores work really threw me for a loop.

But I am so happy to be here, and each day I am acclimating to my new environment.”

England’s COVID-19 rules are currently looser than ever, making for a relatively normal study abroad experience.

“There are very limited

Juniors Anna O’Keefe and Kendall Hayes meet in Positano, Italy.

Courtesy of Anna O’Keefe

COVID restrictions in London,” Hayes said. “I am not allowed to have visitors in my residence, but no one wears masks in London. Vaccine cards are never checked at most places. The U.K. also just dropped the mandatory PCR testing for country re-entry.”

While the U.K. has dealt its fair share of culture shock to Villanova students, the non-English speaking countries have required much more of an adjustment.

Junior Sean Bradshaw, a Finance major, is studying Business and Economics in the IES Abroad program in Madrid.

“So far I’ve travelled to Segovia, Ávila, Granada, Buitrago del Lozoya, and Barcelona inside Spain, and I’m going to Morocco next week,” Bradshaw said. “So far every place I’ve gone has been beautiful. Granada was especially nice because of the Arabic influence in the buildings and markets. I got to go to the Alhambra, which is one of the most famous religious sites in Spain.”

Unlike in Madrid, some regions fortunately have higher percentages of English-speakers. One of these regions is Copenhagen, Denmark, where junior Jade Singh is studying through the DIS study abroad program.

Singh is a Biology major. While abroad, she is studying polar biology, as well as elective courses in fashion and the anthropology of food. Just like England, Denmark seems to be particularly lax with COVID-19 rules.

“A major difference between [Denmark] and the U.S. is that there are no more COVID guidelines, since an overwhelming majority of the popula-

tion is vaccinated,” Singh said. “Other than that, life here is definitely slower-paced, and people tend to keep to themselves more.”

Further south in the continent, Villanova students are studying in the one and only bel paese: Italy.

Junior Sophia Pedro, a Communication and Economics Major, is enrolled in the WFI Internship program, partnered with IES Abroad in Rome.

The WFI program has been a favorite of students in Villanova’s Communication Department since it was first offered nearly two decades ago. This program, which combines classes and an internship experience, has previously included internship placements at Catholic News Service, the United Nations International Fund for Agricultural Development and the Vatican’s Secretariat for Communications. Of the five Villanova students in the WFI program this fall, three Villanova students are interning with the Vatican, while the other two (including Pedro) are interning with the United Nations.

“There is so much to miss about Villanova when you are away from it, and in many ways I do miss the familiarity of campus and all of my friends there,” Pedro said. “However, being abroad for the last month has already taught me so much about myself and strengthened me a lot as a person. If I wasn’t abroad this semester I would have been a Volunteer Coordinator for Special Olympics, writing for the News section of the Villanovan, and also giving tours to prospective students and families. While I miss all of these activities immensely, I am finding new ways to

occupy my time here, one of which has been travel.”

So far, Pedro has stayed in Italy, visiting Siena, Sperlonga, and Pompeii.

However, she plans to travel around Europe in the coming months.

Italy’s COVID-19 restrictions seem to be slightly more stringent than those of England and Denmark.

“Italy is pretty open but still maintaining the mask mandate,” Pedro said. “They do make it a point to check CDC vaccine cards and European green passes when visiting indoor museums, restaurants, bars and art galleries. Other than that, the semester has felt relatively normal and I have been finding ways to spend time outside frequently.”

Another student in this WFI program is Anna O’Keefe. O’Keefe has been documenting her time in Europe on her Instagram page @aok.abroad.

“Essentially, I wanted to have another outlet to share my abroad content without overwhelming my personal Instagram page and to have a method to document my experience as well,” O’Keefe said. “It has essentially turned into a digital diary for myself and this experience.”

Meanwhile, junior Bryan DiPasca, a Management Information Systems and Business Analytics major, is currently part of IES Abroad’s Milan Business Studies Program. He spoke to @goabroadnova, the official Instagram page of the University’s Office of Education Abroad, about his experiences in Milan.

“When I initially arrived in Milan, it was a bit overwhelming to be exposed to a new place and culture so quickly,” DiPasca said on @goabroadnova. “However, the staff at IES Milan has been wonderful in helping students become adjusted to life in Italy. After 4 weeks here already, I already feel so much more comfortable when it comes to speaking and ordering food in Italian, taking public transportation to and from class and overall integrating into the community here. I’ve been able to meet other students from across the world.”

In addition to Italians and Americans, DiPasca has met students from Hong Kong, Norway, Sweden, France, Hungary, Poland and more, just in his apartment building.

“Everyone involved with the program has been so nice with helping students feel at home in a foreign country, and they have also been great with planning fun trips and experiences for students, including a day trip to Lago Maggiore, and the opportunity to see ‘The Last Supper’ in person,” DiPasca said. “Overall, the experience has been more than I could ask for, and I’m so excited for the rest of the semester.”

The Instagram page @ goabroadnova plans to continue to provide updates about Villanova students abroad this fall.

Wednesday, October 6, 2021

CULTURE

10 | The Villanovan

Villa-Vogue: The Fashion Week Rundown Kaelin Trombley Staff Writer

There are more than 100 different fashion weeks that take place worldwide, whether it be from Fiji to Panama or Vancouver to Rio de Janeiro. Rather than listing every fashion show our planet has to offer, let’s narrow it down to the most popular fashion weeks of the bunch -- the “big four” if you will.

The big four fashion weeks consist of the world’s international fashion capitals: New York Fashion Week, London Fashion Week, Milan Fashion Week and Paris Fashion Week.

New York Fashion Week is always scheduled to kick off the big four runway debuts and never fails to disappoint. Overt femininity and an emphasis on partywear were two major themes for the NYFW Spring/Summer 2022 runways this year as pieces embracing womanhood and sexuality were readily apparent.

Unlike its Parisian, English and Italian counterparts, NYFW impresses us with a more eclectic mix of young and upcoming designers. This focus provides viewers with a small glance at the future of fashion. “Who Decides War” did just that through its presentation at the Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum, which detailed models walking on a runway surrounded by jets and helicopter models. “Telfar,” destined to be one of the top up and coming luxury brands, turned heads with their new duffle bag line and Telfar TV announcement, which is the label’s own television channel.

Other notable shows from New York Fashion Week include “Willy Chavaria,” “Tombogo,” “Connor McKnight,” and “Head of State.”

More than 90 runway shows

took place over the course of the five day event, located from various boroughs in Brooklyn to the Empire State building. Amongst the 90 runway shows, five top trends have been predicted to take on the spring and summer of 2022 by storm, all of which representing different color pallets and patterns to take your closet to the next level.

Bikinis: They have always been worn during the summer months, but this year, swimwear is taking a streetwear approach. Rather than sporting a regular top and bottom set, pair a bikini top with a pair of khakis, pencil skirt or suit set.

Crochet: The traditional knitwork of crochet is back once against this upcoming season thanks to brands such as Gabriela Hearst and Ulla Johnson. Whether they be a pair of shorts, a dress, skirt or even pair of socks, crochet is back by popular demand in all shapes and color schemes.

Gingham: The gingham pattern is back once again, folks.

However, this time around, gingham is being incorporated in both sporty pieces as well as chic.

The second of the big four fashion weeks is London Fashion Week, whose main focal points this year focused on innovative, forward designs. Designers for LFW strayed away from utilizing the health crisis theme that has been fashion’s focus for almost two years now. Instead, they highlighted a diverse array of themes as designers embrace their newfound freedom of presenting fashion that has been absent during the pandemic.

While the British heavyweight brand Burberry was absent from this year’s schedule, designers such as Richard Pyo, Simone Rocha and Roksanda carried London Fashion Week through their notable

shows.

Necklines: LFW represented a collection of dresses with a common theme being strappy halter necklines. Designers like Dojaka and fashion house Givenchy represented the halter silhouette dress with extreme class and timelessness.

Loose Denim: Baggy jeans have been trending for as long as I can remember. However, this spring and summer, expect baggy denim but to the extreme.

Cape Dresses: Cape dresses were by far a favorite trend on the London Fashion Week runway. And no, I do not mean the superhero kind. Instead, designers embodied elegant Grecian gowns. Loose fitting and floor length, this style dress includes a drape of fabric that stretches along the backside, covering the shoulders.

While the city of Milan is renowned for its aspirational luxury, many designers focused on integrating practicality and streetwear.

Milan Fashion Week came back full throttle for the spring and summer 2021 season as runways used upbeat positivity as a focal point in celebration of fashion shows making a comeback.

The most iconic house collaboration being Prada x Raf Simmons. For any fashion guru, this collaborative showcase is straight out of a dream. Via a live feed, audiences in both Milan and Shanghai watched Prada and Simons’ take on femininity through their showcase of bra cups and corsetry reimagined with a highly contemporary slant.

Short lengths, sleek lines and contrasting hard and soft fabric combinations, offered a modern vision of womanhood.

Other notable shows from MFW include Jil Sander, whose show focused on the emotional reasons for making purchases, and

Marni, who not only dressed their models but their audience as well. A multitude of trends were forecasted through the runways presented in Milan that should be on everyone’s radars for the following months which include

Finally comes Paris Fashion Week, the conclusion of the month-long fashion marathon.

PFW entailed a mix of practicality and sophistication through a collaboration of streetwear and high fashion as many shows were fixated on understanding the reality of our current era.

Each show was unique in its own sense and brought many new spring and summer trends to the table.

Mellow Yellow: Along with the neon color palette from London Fashion Week, Paris introduced soft buttery yellow and dusty rose tones to look forward to in 2022.

Givenchy was certainly a powerhouse on the runway when it came to the light pure yellow accompanied by a dijon undertone.

His Becomes Her: Ambiguous fashion is becoming more and more of a frontrunner for the runway, the star being baggy suit sets.

Thom Browne is an example of oversized suit sets presented at PFW with the absence of an undershirt, solely keeping the top as the blazer by itself.

And just like that, the spring and summer 2022 fashion season has come under wraps. Despite the differences in trends presented at every fashion week, each show held the underlying commonality of hope for the future. Catwalks have officially woken up from their two year hibernation and haven proven to come back as if fashion never left. Although the fashion marathon September brought has come to an end, fashion takes no days off.

Mid-Term Week Survival Guide Emma Cahill Staff Writer

As Villanova students approach the midpoint of the first semester, many are preparing for midterms or are currently taking midterm exams. There is a sense of chaos and frenzy in the air. The library is filled to the brim with students cramming loads of information into their minds. Many people form study groups and confer with classmates about bracing themselves for tests. Others take a different approach and take advantage of the fact that the Connelly Center Holy Grounds is open until 11 p.m., utilizing a caffeine rush.

Whatever one’s approach might be, it is easy to feel overwhelmed by the influx of midterm assignments. The abundance of tests, projects and papers can induce mass amounts of stress and anxiety in individuals. How can one handle the pressure of preparing and taking these exams? Is there any way to undertake these tasks with ease?

For those wondering how to cope with the immense burden of it all, here are some ways to survive this chaotic time: A midterm survival guide of sorts.

When in preparation for midterms, there are many things to consider. First, though this advice may seem trite, the essentials to crushing these academic hurdles are a combination of sufficient amounts of sleep and organizational skills. Getting a good night’s sleep is key to a successful midterm week. It is necessary to rest after working for a long time to recharge for the next day. Additionally, staying organized is vital to increased productivity. One way to stay organized is by utilizing a physical planner, a reminder app or even sticky note pads. Taking note of incoming assignments or exams makes it easier to lay out an effective study schedule.

Another essential part of surviving midterm prep is relaxation. Though it may seem counterproductive, finding time to relax between studying is vital to successful study habits. It is not just optional but rather imperative to find downtime for wellness. Not only does setting aside time for leisure help to calm one’s nerves, but it also increases productivity. There is a tendency to be unable to focus when droning on reading and writing for hours without a break. So, by taking even a 15-minute break, one can refresh the mind and then

subsequently return to vigorous studying.

Though it is difficult to sit back and relax during a time of such substantial stress, there are various methods one can employ.

First, physical activity can be beneficial to relaxation. Releasing some endorphins by going to the gym, doing yoga or going for a run can be valuable to wellness. Another aspect of relaxation can simply be resting, whether watching Netflix or taking a nap, as a way to recharge the brain. Whatever method one decides to implement, remember that rest is not only acceptable but also advantageous.

Additionally, another significant aspect of gearing up for midterms is finding an appropriate studying location. There are many viable options to choose for study sessions. Some popular spots include Falvey Library, Bartley Hall, Driscoll or even a bench near the fountain. It all depends on one’s comfort level. If used to a noisy environment, a busier locale like the Connelly Center may be better. However, if one is used to pin-dropping silence, the Reading Room in Old Falvey would be a better choice. It all depends on preference, but analyzing the surrounding environment is a good

idea to see which location is most suitable.

When it comes to taking the exams themselves, many people have concerns about controlling nerves or are wondering how to channel positive energy. The process of taking exams can provoke anxiety in many, but there are ways to combat this. Practicing breathing exercises is a popular way to calm down before an exam.

For example, the 4-7-8 breathing method, where one breathes in for four seconds, holds their breath for seven seconds and then exhales for eight seconds, is a popular breathing exercise that can instill a sense of calm in apprehensive test-takers. Another well-liked technique is to practice positive affirmations to build up confidence before an exam. Test-taking anxiety is a difficult hurdle to overcome, but little tips such as these can help to ward off such uneasiness when completing exams.

Overall, getting through the middle of the first semester may seem like a formidable task, but there are ways to conquer the overwhelming nature of it all. Whether one is battling multiple exams, presentations or projects, this chaos is survivable. In this pursuit of academic success, maintain a positive attitude and power through.

Wednesday, October 6, 2021

The Villanovan | 11

CULTURE

The Newest James Bond Movie: No Time To Die Review A.J. Fezza Co-Culture Editor

For months, it looked like the newest James Bond film, “No Time to Die,” had no time to be released.

It was originally slated to come out in April 2020, before the COVID-19 pandemic swept the world and caused the film release to be postponed three times. However, this 25th installment in the James Bond series has finally hit theaters, and it was worth the wait.

“No Time to Die” had its world premiere at the iconic Royal Albert Hall in London on Tuesday, Sept. 28. The premiere was followed by a wide theatrical release in the United Kingdom on Thursday, Sept.

30. U.S. theaters will start presenting the film on Friday, Oct. 8. The Royal Albert Hall premiere was attended by a wide array of celebrities and royals, most notably Prince Charles, Prince William and Kate Middleton.

The Villanovan spoke about the premiere to junior Kendall Hayes, who is currently studying abroad for the Fall 2021 semester at Boston University in London.

“People were preparing for the premiere for days,” Hayes said.

“Two of my friends found a way to get tickets and were able to go to the actual premiere. From my doorstep, I saw celebrities such as Madelyn Cline and Daniel Craig walk the red carpet.

I also saw the Royal Family come on the red carpet for the premiere. It was insane.”

“No Time to Die” had a massive budget of between $250-300 million, making it one of the most expensive films ever made. The film is expected to make major returns at the box office, especially when it reaches the U.S. market. If the film

ends up grossing more than $1.2 billion worldwide, it will make Daniel Craig the most successful Bond actor of all time, overtaking the iconic original Bond actor, Sean Connery.

In “No Time to Die,” Bond is enjoying his retirement, when his old CIA friend, Felix Leiter, asks for his help. Bond is pulled back into the spy world, as he tries to rescue a scientist kidnapped by the henchmen of terrorist leader Lyutsifer Safin. While there is some information from previous Bond films “Casino Royale” and “Spectre” that would help one better understand the plot intricacies of “No Time to Die,” you won’t get lost by coming into the theater without any prior knowledge.

There were some clever one-liners and amusing Bond-series references scattered in the film here and there. However, most of the jokes in “No Time to Die” resembled corny Marvel movie humor. This is disappointing, given that one of the screenwriters of the film is the typically witty Phoebe Waller-Bridge. Yet, this film has further demonstrated what once caught audiences off guard and provided audiences actual comic relief is now an unpleasant cliché in the action genre.

“No Time to Die” marks Craig’s final appearance playing Bond after 15 years. Craig gave his typical calm and understated performance in the film. For the most part, it works. Still, there are certain highly-charged moments in the film that definitely should have demanded more of a reaction from Craig.

Lea Seydoux, who plays Bond’s love interest, Madeleine Swann, makes up for Craig’s lack of emotion. Seydoux gives the most impressive performance of the entire cast. Her character deals with not just life-threatening situations, but also

Daniel Craig’s last appearance as James Bond.

Courtesy of MGM/Courtney Everett Collection/New York Post

deep-seated trauma, and Seydoux perfectly conveys the vulnerability needed for the role.

Rami Malek plays the main villain, Lyutsifer Safin. Malek’s performance is not terrible, but it’s certainly not his best. Through Malek’s performance, we never actually learn anything about what Safin is like, except for his backstory and that he is “the bad guy.” If you want to see a memorable main villain, “No Time to Die” will not leave you satisfied.

All of the minor roles in “No Time to Die” are charming and well-executed. Lashana Lynch, Christoph Waltz and Ana de Armas are the biggest standouts. When it comes to breakout star Ana de Armas, though, don’t let the trailers deceive you.

Her role in the film, while a welcome addition to the Bond world, is very minor.

Bond films are now more than just about the plot and the acting; they are also about the music. Billie Eilish had the honor of singing the Bond theme this time around, making her the youngest artist to record a Bond theme song. She was 18 years old when her eponymous song, “No

Time to Die’’ was released on Feb. 13, 2020. It won the Grammy Award for Best Song Written for Visual Media at the 63rd Annual Grammy Awards on March 14, 2021. ger.”

Overall, “No Time to Die” was a great last hurrah for Craig. It perfectly toes the line between serious and entertaining and introduces fresh faces without discarding too many of the ones we’ve come to know in the past few films. The film’s ending is sure to surprise viewers in numerous ways.

“No Time to Die” comes on the heels of major speculation and controversy regarding who is going to play the next Bond. There has been circulation in the media that the next Bond may be played by a woman.

However, Craig and Bond film series producer Barbara Broccoli have both questioned the need for Bond to be played by a woman, when there could instead be new, different roles for women in spy and action films.

Regardless of who plays the next Bond, let’s hope that the next era can continue to provide the movie magic that audiences were given over the past 15 years with Craig.

The Book Buzz: Beartown by Fredrik Backmann Kai Da Luz Staff Writer

As we get closer to the much anticipated fall break, some students are getting wound up worrying for midterms. What better way to unwind and unplug during the break than by picking up a new book?

Written by Swedish author Fredrik Backman, “Beartown” offers a unique look into a snowy little forest town that the rest of the world couldn’t care less about. Beartown is home to some of the toughest people around, who have persevered through years of hardships and economic decline. The only thing that willed the residents of the town to step out into the freezing weather every day and trudge onwards was hockey. Hockey was simple and fair, as they believed, while life wasn’t. At the center of life in Beartown is the hockey club. The motto, “Culture, Values and Community,” is inscribed all over the town. Though, as the events in the book would have it, that motto would become more of a stain than a salute, for culture is the real culprit in this case.

“For me, culture is as much about what we encourage as what we actually permit,” Sune, the head coach of the Beartown Hockey A-Team, says. “Most people don’t do what we tell them to. They do what

we let them get away with.”

The novel begins with this beaten, broken town after an unforgettable act ends with a boy on his knees in the snow and a gun to his head. However, all of this is revealed on the first page. Backman lays out everything before his audience and is still able to not only draw the reader in, but completely envelope them in the world he creates. His control over language is truly astounding, as he utilizes every literary device in the book to pull cheers, fears and tears out of the reader.

“Beartown” will make one question how willingly people are ready to look the other way when presented with a clear injustice because it is easier for them to choose ignorance. “Beartown” demonstrates how those whom we put all our trust in are destined to fall. It reveals all of the pain and suffering felt by each individual citizen of Beartown, and how the glorification of a sport and socioeconomic divide can blind a whole town from the truth, the very thing for which they would rather lose their humanity than see. It will disgust you as Backman reveals how the lies we tell ourselves about exceptionalism can make us backwards as a society.

I do not want to say any more, as I don’t want to spoil this book for anyone who is considering

Backman’s book is this week’s pick for book of the week.

Courtesy of Novelonmymind.com

reading it. I cannot fully express how highly I recommend reading “Beartown” or any of Backman’s work. His writing style simply stands apart in the way he is able to paint a picture and take the reader on a journey.

So, as midterms rear their ugly heads around the corner, I

encourage you to finish strong. After closing that lovely mathematics textbook, be sure to relax and maybe open Beartown instead. Step out of your routine so that you can step into Backman’s world.

CULTURE

12 | The Villanovan

Wednesday, October 6, 2021

Augustinians of Villanova: Father Bill Gabriel Olivia Sabalaskey Staff Writer

“My favorite part about being an Augustinian is sharing life with my friar brothers and being with people during different moments of their lives,” Father Bill Gabriel, O.S.A, M.Div. CLAS ‘14 said. “Helping to celebrate precious moments like baptisms and weddings is very humbling.”

This week, Fr. Bill offers Villanovans a glimpse into his journey to becoming one of the youngest Augustinians at the University.

Born and raised a Roman Catholic in Dover, New Hampshire, Fr. Bill felt a calling to religious life at the young age of eight. While his family attended weekly, Sunday Mass together at their Diocesan parish, Fr. Bill noticed that a new priest had taken over as the Pastor.

The priest was an Augustinian Friar from Merrimack College in Andover, Massachusetts, and, although he was sent for only a temporary position as the parish’s Pastor, he ended up staying for around 12 years, revolutionizing Fr. Bill’s parish.

“There was something about his vibrancy, his joy that was just so contagious,” Fr. Bill said. “He empowered the parish to take ownership of religious education, service and the Masses. He just really made the parish something that people wanted to be a part of and feel connected to.”

Fr. Bill recalls the moment he felt a calling to religious life. While sitting with his family at Sunday Mass, eightyear-old Fr. Bill nudged his father sitting beside him.

“I tugged on my dad’s sleeve, and I said, ‘Dad, I am going to be that guy,’” Fr. Bill said. “I was pointing to our parish’s new Pastor, the Augustinian Friar. My dad looked at me, very surprised, and

then asked me why. According to my dad, I gave him two reasons: first, I told him that the vestments that priests wore were super cool, and, second, because the priest inspired people.”

As Fr. Bill grew older, he realized that there were other vocations in life that would allow him to pursue his passion of inspiring people such as becoming a teacher, coach, parent and more. However, becoming an Augustinian priest like his Augustinian hero growing up remained in the back of his mind. Fr. Bill felt that although he could be happy in any vocation that allowed him to inspire people, there was something about the Augustinian Friars and the priesthood that always intrigued him.

“I felt as though a voice was telling me that I could be even happier if I became an Augustinian priest,” Fr. Bill said.

In 2014, Fr. Bill graduated from Villanova with an undergraduate degree in Theology. He lived in Stanford Hall on South Campus with a random roommate, attended class and ate at Donahue Hall, commonly referred to as The Spit.

Similar to how many freshmen struggle with the transition to college life, Fr. Bill questioned if he had made the right choice in coming to Villanova. In summary, he had a normal freshman year of college full of ups and downs.

However, one Sunday night, as he walked to the St. Thomas of Villanova Church to attend a student Mass, Fr. Bill was welcomed by Brother Michael Duffy, O.S.A. After introductions, Brother Michael remarked at how Fr. Bill looked like he was an upperclassman, as if he had been at Villanova for years, not just a month. This surprised Fr. Bill given that he was only a freshman. Before parting ways as the mass started, Brother Michael left Fr. Bill with one last comment.

“You look like you’re home,” Brother Michael said.

Fr. Bill felt as though this was a true sign from God to stay at Villanova and remain open-minded about his vocation.

After graduation, Fr. Bill taught high school Theology and coached basketball in Delaware. After much contemplation and study, Fr. Bill joined the Order of St. Augustine in 2015 through the formation process. During formation in the Villanova Province (East Coast), he met many Augustinian Friars including Father Bernie Scianna, O.S.A., Ph.D who served as the Provincial of the Midwest Province. They keep in touch and have remained friends and brothers ever since.

During many of the seven years in formation, Fr. Bill attended graduate school to study Theology and Ministry in Chicago, as those who are called to be an Augustinian Friar and priest often do.

On June 26, 2021, Fr. Bill was ordained an Augustinian priest, and he accepted his first assignment as the Parochial Vicar, commonly referred to as the Associate Pastor, for the St. Thomas of Villanova Parish. Although Fr. Bill is not employed by the University, he stays well connected given the amount of students

and parishioners that attend Mass.

“I am so deeply nourished by the faith, sense of community and vibrant celebration of Villanovans at the student masses on campus,” Fr. Bill said. “I come away so energized and grateful to God to be able to be a part of the Villanova community.”

Given his recent Ordination this past summer, Fr. Bill will celebrate his first student Mass on Nov. 7 at 7 p.m. All are welcome and encouraged to attend.

To those who are interested in pursuing a vocation to religious life, Fr. Bill encourages them to pay attention to two things.

“First, pay attention to your own experiences of feeling alive,” Fr. Bill said.

“Second, pay attention to the affirmation of others. If doing these two things has helped you listen to a greater calling from God and to investigate religious life, it’s time to give it a try. You aren’t making a commitment on Day One, so just give it a try.”

Lastly, Fr. Bill is a true fan of the new television series, “Ted Lasso,” and he recommends Villanovans watch it for a good laugh.

Second from the left, Fr. Bill Gabriel, Bishop Daniel Turley at his Ordination to Priesthood on June 26, 2021 at the Mother of Good Counsel Grotto on Villanova’s campus.

Courtesy of Fr. Bill Gabriel

Villanova Student Set to Run Boston Marathon Caleigh Beaton Staff Writer

For many people, April 15, 2013 is one of those days that they will remember forever. People remember exactly what they were doing around 2:50 p.m. on this day, when the Boston Marathon was bombed. I remember sitting in the car while my mother was in the grocery store. My brother called and made me go into the store to find her so that he could tell her that he and my other brother living in Boston at the time were safe. At just 13 years old, it was difficult to fully comprehend what was going on, but I will never forget the look on my mother’s face when my brother told her the news. It was a dreary couple of days while we stayed glued to the television, watching the investigation and the manhunt of the bombers unfold.

What was once just a marathon has turned into something so much greater. Boston came together during that horrific time, and now people gather for the marathon as a sign of united strength and to honor the memory of those whose lives were lost on that day.

Over the years, some of our very own Villanova students have run the marathon. Some are planning to run this year on Oct. 11. Sophomore Ryane Farrell will be participating in

the 26.2 miles this coming marathon.

Farrell is running for the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in honor of her mother who beat breast cancer in 2013 and ran the marathon in 2007.

“The excellent doctors and research at Dana-Farber saved my Mom’s life and helped my family stay positive and strong throughout her treatment,” Farrell said about why she chose to run the Boston Marathon. “While running a marathon has always been a personal goal of mine, having the opportunity to run for my mom through Dana-Farber makes it even more special.”

Farrell has been training all summer, and while many students have been going to classes these past couple of months, she has continued her training amid the chaos and challenges of being a college student.

Farrell admits that she owes her motivation to all of her supporters and donors. For Dana-Farber, she set a goal of raising $9,000 for the Claudia Adams Barr Program, which goes directly to basic cancer research at Dana-Farber Institute. Farrell explained that people from all over the United States, including many from the Villanova community, “have donated and left [her] with positive messages cheering [her] on and sharing their stories. Each step of the way, [she] thinks about [her] mom’s fight and all of these special people which help power [her] through the run.”

Farrel is set to run the Boston Marathon in honor of her mother.

Courtesy of Nova Nationer

Farrell, like many others, remembers the day of the Boston bombing, having come off the bus from school and presented with the tragic news. She said that her “heart was absolutely broken for everyone there,” but explained that “as Boston has proved, we are Boston Strong...I am proud to be Boston Strong. Even after Covid took away the typical April marathon Monday, we are proving that we can do this in October.”

As if running a marathon was not enough in itself, Farrell is helping so many people through the

Dana-Farber Institute, and being a prime example of their saying that, “together, we’re headed toward the ultimate finish line: a world without cancer.”

Farrell cannot wait for Oct. 11 “to run in honor of [her] amazing mom and all of [her] special donors and teammates.”

For all those in the Boston area on Oct. 11, make sure to look out for Farrell as she achieves a goal that many merely wish they could while helping people in profound ways.

Wednesday, October 6, 2021

The Villanovan | 13

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SPORTS

Football Returns To Action: James Madison Preview Matthew Ryan Staff Writer (Continued from p.1) an elite two yards per carry. Their defensive front is led by senior CAA Preseason Defensive Player of the Year Mike Greene, junior Isaac Ukwa, who has 4.5 tackles for loss and a team-high three sacks, and senior Bryce Carter, the team leader in tackles for loss with six.

Throughout the season, the Wildcats have the third-best run defense, giving up only 42 yards per game. In the past two games against stellar competition in No. 21 Richmond and FBS title contender Penn State, the ‘Cats only gave up 79.5 rushing yards per game and 2.7 yards per rush.

Graduate Forrest Rhyne and senior Amin Black, both linebackers, and graduate defensive lineman Malik Fisher, have helped blow up plays behind the line of scrimmage, combining for 11.5 tackles for loss and 3.5 sacks.

“We think that we’re the number one rushing defense in the FCS,” Rhyne said following Villanova’s loss to Penn State. “Our defense is built to stop the run, and that’s the number one thing that we emphasize. So to stop the run is the standard, is what we’re supposed to do.”

Led by sophomore run-

ning back Latrele Palmer’s 69 yards per game on the ground, the Dukes average 204.8 rushing yards a game, 19th best in FCS. The ‘Cats average 174 rushing yards per contest, good for 33rd best in FCS, led by graduate CAA Preseason Honorable Mention Justin Covington, who averages 80.5 rushing yards per game.

The battle up front between two high-powered run games and two of the best FCS run defenses will be something to monitor on Saturday.

Senior quarterback Cole Johnson is under center and has freshman CAA Preseason Honorable Mention Antwane Wells Jr. (87.5 yards per game) and junior CAA Preseason All-Conference member Kris Thornton (80.5 YPG) as his top targets. Of the 15 receiving touchdowns this season for the Dukes, nine of them have gone to Wells and Thornton, who have caught five and four, respectively. At 292.2 yards per game, JMU’s pass attack is ranked 14th in the FCS, while Villanova’s pass defense is middle of the pack, giving up 223.8 yards per contest.

Villanova’s secondary is led by senior defensive back Christian Benford, who has four interceptions on the season.

Villanova’s aerial attack, quarterbacked by graduate Daniel Smith, has been slightly above average in the FCS, passing for 237

yards per game. Junior receivers Rayjoun Pringle (62.8 YPG) and Jaaron Hayek (57 YPG) lead the way for the ‘Cats’ receiving corps, hauling in a combined seven of the teams 11 touchdown passes.

JMU’s pass defense is one of the best in the FCS, giving up just 184.2 yards per game. Senior cornerback Ross Greg highlights the Dukes’ secondary, with three pass breakups and two interceptions on the season.

The Dukes have a favorable matchup on both sides of the passing game, particularly on offense. It will be interesting to see if JMU coach Curt Cignetti is pass

heavy on Saturday, given his team has the advantage in the air, and the Wildcats have such a stellar run defense.

While this game might have more importance than any other matchup this season, Villanova coach Mark Ferrante has the same goal as every week.

“We’re gonna still try to go in there and do what we can and hopefully play an error-free, penalty-free, turnover-free, consistent game,” he said. “And that’s kind of the goal each week.”

Kickoff Saturday at James Madison’s Bridgeforth Stadium is at 2 p.m.

Quarterback Daniel Smith will look to lead the Wildcaats to a CAA victory.

Courtesy of Villanova Athletics

Men’s Soccer Beats Xavier, 1-0 Owen Hewitt Staff Writer

Villanova men’s soccer secured a 1-0 victory over Xavier, extending its undefeated run of play in the Big East conference.

The lone goal of the match came in the 15th minute, as sophomore Akinjide Awujo slotted a ball past the Xavier keeper. It is the Wildcats’ third 1-0 victory in the first three games of conference play, and their fifth win in six games.

Both teams started out the first half by testing the waters and trading attacking blows for the first 10 minutes, none of which were particularly dangerous.

It remained very tentative until the 15th minute, when Awujo received a long ball from sophomore midfielder Dominic Cyriacks and carefully tucked the ball to the right of Xavier’s keeper. The goal was Awujo’s first of the season.

Villanova head coach Tom Carlin said Tuesday that transition from defense to offense was going to be a major point of emphasis in training leading up to the match against Xavier, and it paid off for the ‘Cats.

“We have to be better in transition, that’s number one,” Carlin said. “On the other end, we’ve got to be a little bit more productive with our possessions.

What we build from our goalkeeper, when we build from our midfield.”

Villanova was able to use its midfield to generate chances, as well as create sharp counter-attacks after weathering the Musketeers’ storms.

After the Awujo score, Xavier attempted to respond quickly with a goal of its own, but a dangerous chance for a Musketeers forward in the 17th minute went just wide of the near post.

In the 20th minute, it looked as though the ‘Cats were about to have a second off the foot of junior midfielder Gray Ricca, but he was challenged and dispossessed by a Musketeers defender inside the 18-yard box. The challenge was not without contact, but play went on without a penalty call.

In the 25th minute, Ricca had possession again in a dangerous area, but was dispossessed, this time fairly cleanly.

Junior forward Lyam MacKinnon fired a shot off of a ‘Cats free kick in the 35th, but it sailed far north of the crossbar.

After that chance, Xavier began to dominate the run of play, generating multiple chances in quick succession. Possibly the most dangerous chance of the night for the Musketeers came in the 42nd minute, as a misplayed ball back to senior keeper Carson Williams led to an opportunity for Xavier, as Williams was far off his line. A Xavier forward tried to take advantage of the defensive miscommunication, but Williams was able

to make a stellar deflection to keep the advantage for the Wildcats.

Williams resumed his duties as the ‘Cats starting keeper after a one game suspension for a red card received against Penn State.

The red card prevented him from taking his position between the sticks against Butler last weekend, and understudy senior keeper Kent Dickey kept a clean sheet in Williams’ absence.

After the halftime break, the ‘Cats settled into their defensive shape and clamped down on the Musketeers’ offense. Junior defender Anthony Cousins Jr., junior midfielder Viktor Benediktsson and junior midfielder Josh Belluz led the defensive unit as they fought against a flurry of Xavier attacks.

“Viktor and Jack did a great job of winning the balls in

the air,” Carlin said to Villanova Athletics. “Carson came off his line a number of times to knock the ball away. I thought Josh Belluz was really disruptive too with his length and skill.”

The defensive efforts of the Wildcats were necessary, as Xavier stayed on the front foot for a majority of the second half of play.

Williams came up with a couple more saves, and the Wildcats held on for their seventh win of the campaign.

The Wildcats travel to Connecticut on Wednesday to take on UConn, before returning home Saturday afternoon to face St John’s. All four of the Huskies’ wins have taken place at home, while the Red Storm are one of the four undefeated teams in Big East play, joining Villanova, Providence and Georgetown.

Junior Lyam Mackinnon approaches the ball.

Courtesy of Olivia Pasquale/Villanovan Photography

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14 | The Villanovan

Wednesday, October 6, 2021

Volleyball Splits Weekend Homestand Zac Tipton Staff Writer

Villanova was swept by Xavier on Friday in Jake Nevin Fieldhouse before defeating Butler on Saturday

Xavier (6-6) faced an injury-riddled Villanova squad and swept the Wildcats, 25-16, 25-21 and 25-17.

Villanova bounced back against Butler on Saturday winning all three sets, 25-12, 25-23 and 27-25.

On Friday, Villanova went into the game having lost two straight matches and dealing with a lot of injuries.

“We’ve had more injuries this season than I’ve had in any season since I’ve started coaching here,” Coach Josh Steinbach said. “This is my 15th year, and we are injury riddled.”

Xavier took advantage of the beat-up Wildcats by going out on 6-2 run in the first set. Villanova tried to push back with a 5-2 run to make it 8-7. Keeping it close all the way to 1513, Xavier finally went on a 10-3 run to finish off the set, 25-16. Villanova had nine errors in the set, so while both teams had roughly the same amount of kills, those errors made all the difference.

The second set was tight until Xavier went up 24-18 and finished off Villanova in the second, despite a 3-0 Wildcat run. The final set score was 25-21. Xavier only had one error with 16 kills in this set and a .455 hitting percentage.

Villanova played well in the beginning of the third set. Down 13-8 after Xavier had a 5-0 run and three kills, Villanova went on a 6-1 run to

tie it up at 14 with a pair of kills by Madeline Barber. Xavier went on a 11-3 run right after to end the match, 25-17.

Riley Homer led the Wildcats with 10 kills, while Barber had eight. Villanova had nine fewer kills and 12 more errors that went along with a .130 hitting percentage. Kelly Franxman led Xavier with 12 kills and seven digs. Xavier had a hitting percentage of .398, which was the second highest of the season for the Musketeers. They improve to 7-6, while Villanova falls to 8-7.

Villanova faced Butler on Saturday, and the first set was all Villanova. Villanova started off a 12-0 run behind seven combined kills from Kiera Booth and Rose Crist. Villanova had a 16-3 lead and continued to fight, winning 25-12. Butler only had six kills with five errors, compared to ‘Nova’s 11 kills.

Villanova took a 3-0 lead to start the second, but Butler closed the gap to 7-6. Villanova continued to lead and eventually got to 19-13, but a late run by Butler cut that lead to 2423 before Booth had a set clinching

kill to give Villanova a 25-23 win and a 2-0 set lead. Villanova had 13 kills in that set. Butler only had 11 with nine of them coming from Melody Davidson and Brittany Robinson.

The third set was back and forth with each team trading points.

Butler’s Megan Sheridan had four kills in the first 12 points to tie the game at 6-6. Villanova would go down, 17-14, before going on a 4-0 run that gave them the 18-17 lead with three kills coming from Crist.

Butler would pull away and make the score 23-20 on a 5-0 run, but Villanova came back on a 7-2 run that gave the Wildcats their first win in four matches, 27-25.

Booth and Crist led the Wildcats with 15 and 11 kills. Both had a .500 hitting percentage. Belle Morgan made her return and had 27 assists.

Megan Sheridan led the Bulldogs with 11 kills. Villanova moved to 9-7, while Butler fell to 8-9.

Villanova continues its long home stand with games against Georgetown (4-11) Wednesday night, and against UConn (11-5) Friday night.

WEEKLY SCOREBOARD Sep. 29 - Oct. 5

Wednesday, September 29 None Thursday, September 30 Women’s Soccer @ Xavier 0-3 L Friday, October 1 Women’s Volleyball vs. Xavier 0-3 L Women’s Cross Country @ Paul Short Run 2nd of 38 Field Hockey vs. Old Dominion 2-3 L OT Men’s Cross Country @ Paul Short Run 2nd of 40 Saturday, October 2 Men’s Soccer @ Xavier 1-0 W Women’s Volleyball vs. Butler 3-0 W Sunday, October 3 Field Hockey @ Drexel 3-2 W Women’s Soccer @ DePaul 2-3 L Monday, October 4 None Tuesday, October 5 None

The win over Butler was the spark needed to get the Wildcats’ season back on track.

Courtesy of Villanova Athletics

Athlete of the Week: Riley Homer Meghann Morhardt Staff Writer

From the moment she picked up a volleyball at a camp in sixth grade, sophomore Riley Homer was hooked. As a daughter of two collegiate athletes, Homer was destined to have a successful athletic career, but volleyball wasn’t the first sport she tried.

Homer started as a hockey player, heavily influenced by her hockey-playing father. However, it wasn’t until her mom, a former volleyball player at Ferris State, said, “God built you as a volleyball player. Just try it,” that she finally gave it a chance.

“I did one camp in sixth grade and fell in love,” Homer said.

Because Homer is from Michigan, Villanova was never high on her radar. When Villanova head coach Josh Steinbach reached out after watching her play, Homer was intrigued. Homer explained that throughout her recruiting process, she focused on three things.

“I wanted high academics, and I knew I wanted to go into business,” she said. “I wanted a great program that competed hard in their conference every year. And it really came down to the people and the atmosphere.”

Villanova checked all the boxes between the strong reputation of VSB, the success of the volleyball program and the tangible sense of community. Homer expressed that on her official visit where she met the

coaching staff and the team, she got a really good feeling from them, which led her to commit to Villanova during her sophomore year. ‘Nova also provides Homer a sense of adventure that she was seeking.

“I’m from Michigan, so moving to the East Coast and hearing the girls talk about taking the train to New York or Philly for the day and just exploring sounded like such an adventure that I wouldn’t get in the Midwest,” Homer said.

Homer got a small taste of the Villanova experience a semester ahead of schedule in the spring of 2020 after graduating from high school early. She says that this helped her “ease into the process of being a Division One athlete.” Between the extra time and having the 2020 season postponed to the spring, Homer was able to settle in before taking the court for the Wildcats.

“Being here for the two months before getting sent home for Covid allowed me to really get to know the coaches,” she said. “So then with not competing in the fall, I was able to have a lot of one-on-one instruction with my coaches which was huge for me”

This extra time and attention paid off for Homer, as she went on to lead the team in kills and earn herself a spot on the All-Big East Freshman Team during the 2021 spring season. She has carried this success and momentum into the 2021 fall season, recording double-digit kills in 13 games, including a career high night against Northeastern with 25 kills, a spot on the Big East Honor Roll and

Sophomore hitter Riley Homer has been key to the Wildcats’ successes this season.

Courtesy of Villanova Athletics

two All-Tournament team honors.

Homer credits the success to her game day ritual, a tradition that includes straightening her hair, listening to the same playlists and receiving support from her coaches and teammates.

“My teammates are huge,” Home said. “I have great relationships with everyone on the team, but there are certain people that I can always go to if I am struggling and I know they will help bring me back to focusing on what I need to do for the team.”

The team as a whole has great chemistry that translates onto the court. Homer explained that “volleyball is such a momentum sport, and being able to communicate with and understand your teammates is huge.”

This was a big difference for the team this year, as they were able to have a full preseason and spend time together, unlike last year.

“Having a regular preseason where we had just us on campus

being able to spend a lot of time together, getting to know each other and how to communicate with each other was big for our chemistry,” Homer said.

Homer believes that the ‘Cats have a strong chance to compete in the Big East and the postseason this year. They have not gotten off to the best start, losing three of their first four conference games, but they have the pieces and the experience to get them back on track.

“I am excited to see where our program is going,” Homer said.

“I know that myself and my teammates are continually getting better every day in practice. We have a lot of potential and right now we are trying to find a way to fulfill that potential”

Homer has set a personal goal to be named the Big East Outside Hitter of the Year, and with her outstanding start to the season, she and the Wildcats have a shot at something special this year.

Wednesday, October 6, 2021

The Villanovan | 15

SPORTS

Field Hockey Loses to #19 Old Dominion, Beats Drexel Tyler Moore Staff Writer

After losing twice on the road last weekend, the Villanova field hockey team split two games this weekend, with a Senior Night overtime loss to No. 19 Old Dominion on Friday and a comeback victory over Drexel on Sunday.

In an interview earlier in the week, head coach Joanie Milhous made it clear the issues from their road losses at Temple and Fairfield would be addressed, but she remained optimistic.

“We’re gonna work on shots on goal all week,” Milhous said. “We have a ton of talent with our forwards and attacking so it shouldn’t be a problem but we need to work on it.”

The work put in during practice was displayed in Villanova’s first game against nationally ranked Old Dominion, as the ‘Cats took the Lady Monarchs to overtime in a 3-2 loss.

The Senior Night matchup got off to a slow start, as a valiant defensive effort by both sides meant that only three shots were taken in the first period, none finding the back of the net.

The Monarch offense found its way around the circle early in the second period, sneaking the ball past the defense and into the cage to take a 1-0 lead into half.

ODU continued its march and stretched its lead just three minutes into the second half, scoring a second to make it 2-0. A few shots and penalty corners by ‘Nova filled the remaining moments of the third period, but none found their way to the goal.

With the fourth period underway and a two score deficit, the Wildcat defense refocused and kept Villanova in the game. Before leaving an empty net, senior goaltender Jordan McGinley saved three consecutive shots from the Monarchs.

In the remaining minute of regulation, freshman Anne Drabbe dribbled around the circle and passed the ball over to sophomore forward Amanda Middleman. After making her way through the ODU defense, she found sophomore forward Meghan Mitchell, who finished past the goalie to cut the score to 2-1.

Coach Milhous described Mitchell before the game as a passionate player who is growing as a team leader.

“She is such a key player because she works hard [and] wants it so bad,” Milhous said. “She does the extra to get things done.”

Just seconds later, the Wildcats forced a turnover and created a penalty corner opportunity. Sophomore Jamie Pennington fired the corner to sophomore Sabine de Ruijter. De Ruijter’s shot was blocked by the Monarch goalie, signaling victory until the ball found its way to Mitchell’s stick.

Mitchell sent the ball to the net with help of a redirect from junior Caitlin Van Goeverden, sending the match into overtime and exciting the Senior Night crowd.

Despite the spirited comeback by the ‘Cats, the excitement was short lived. The Old Dominion offense scored just a minute into the additional period, ending the game and dropping the ‘Cats to 1-2 in Big East play.

On Sunday, ‘Nova rebounded after three straight losses, defeating

Sophomore Jamie Pennington celebrates after scoring the opener against Drexel.

Courtesy of Villanova Athletics

Drexel, 3-2, in its first road win of the season.

Two penalty corners by the Wildcats started off the match in Philadelphia. On the second, Pennington took a shot on goal that was blocked by the Dragons goalie, but de Ruijter gained possession off of the rebound and scored to give Villanova an early 1-0 lead.

A combined five penalty corners filled the remaining minutes of the first period before Drexel was able to get on the board to tie it at 1-1.

In the second period Drexel took two quick shots in the early moments, one saved by McGinley and the other shot just wide. A penalty was called on the Wildcats in the circle, leading to a penalty stroke that a Drexel attacker converted past McGinley to take a 2-1 lead.

‘Nova quickly got back to work and took advantage of a quick penalty corner. Drabbe sent the corner in to de Ruijter who took a shot on goal which was saved by the

goalkeeper. However, Mitchell gained possession on the rebound and put it into the back of the net to tie the match again.

Only two minutes later, the ‘Cats found themselves with another penalty corner. Pennington sent the ball to Middleman, but Middleman’s shot was too wide. After a substitution, Mitchell shot the ball towards the cage before it was deflected in by Middleman, retaking the lead, 3-2.

The Villanova offense continued to test the Dragons defense, but both defenses held strong through the remainder of the third period. A scoreless fourth period gave ‘Nova their first victory in four games and their first on the road this season.

Later this week the Wildcats will continue Big East play, travelling to Lynchburg on Friday to face 12th ranked Liberty (8-2) at 3 p.m. Over Fall Break, the ‘Cats will host Big East foe UConn (5-7) at home on Oct. 15 and visit non-conference opponent Wagner (4-6) on Oct. 17.

Xavier, and the Wildcats were never able to get back into the game. In the opening minutes of the second half, senior forward Chloe O’Neill was able to get a shot that just went wide of the net, but opportunities were few and far between for the rest of the half.

The Wildcats fell further behind when Ashman committed a foul in the box, giving the Musketeers a penalty kick. Despite all of her overall key saves throughout the game and her penalty kick save from the previous game, McClay was unable to save Molly McLaughlin’s shot to the bottom corner of the goal.

In the 87th minute of the game, the Musketeers sealed their win with a third goal when Carrie Lewis assisted Chloe Netzel for an easy finish past McClay.

On Sunday, Oct. 3, the Wildcats fell 3-2 in Chicago against DePaul’s Blue Demons. The Blue Demons were quick from the start and scored all three of their goals early on in the first half of the game, but a frenzied Wildcat second half comeback came up just short.

The star of the game was DePaul’s Morgan Turner, who scored all three goals. Turner began her hat trick with the opener in the 10th minute, as Kristin Boos threaded the ball past Wildcat defenders to set Turner up for a goal. For her second goal in the 25th minute, Olivia Cooke found Turner in the box again, and senior goalkeeper Megan McClay couldn’t keep it out of the net. Her final goal took place in the 31st minute, when she intercepted a

pass from the Wildcat defense and took the open opportunity to complete the hat trick, sending the Blue Demons into halftime up 3-0.

In the second half, the Wildcats came out looking to rally and got on the board early. In the 53rd minute, the Wildcats were able to string together a series of passes, and McInroy found O’Neill at the top of the box. From there, O’Neill crossed to senior midfielder Niki Molina, who sent the ball low and hard to the right corner to get the Wildcats within two.

In the 72nd minute, freshman midfielder Molly Keiper received her second yellow card of the game, taking her off the field and leaving the Wildcats down one player for the final 18 minutes.

This didn’t stop the Wildcat comeback efforts. In the 80th minute of the game, senior Lauren Ashman delivered a long ball into the box for freshman forward Lauren Belcuore, who finished into the lower-left corner of the goal to make it 3-2.

The Wildcats had one last chance to tie it up, in the 88th minute of the game. Smith got a shot off but it was blocked, ending any chance of a Wildcat comeback. The loss dropped the Wildcats to 6-6, with the 6-1 start a distant memory after five losses in a row.

The next game for Villanova will be on Thursday, Oct. 7th at home against the Providence Friars.

The last time the Wildcats played the Friars was on April 5, 2021, which ended in a 2-1 loss. Kickoff is at 3:00 P.M. at Higgins Soccer Complex.

Women’s Soccer In Free Fall, Drops Fifth Straight

Amanda McKean Staff Writer

The Villanova women’s soccer team lost their fourth and fifth straight games in the Big East, losing 3-0 against Xavier on Thursday, before being defeated 3-2 by DePaul on Sunday. The Wildcats’ record now stands at 6-6 overall.

In Thursday’s game, Villanova started strong and the Wildcats were the more physical team. Nevertheless, the Musketeers challenged the defense early on with multiple counter-attacks, often broken up by key slide tackles by sophomore Lauren Ashman. One of the fast-breaks led to the opening goal in the fifth minute, when Xavier’s Emma Marcus was able to send a long pass to

Sonia Vargas, who fired a low hard strike past senior goalkeeper Megan McClay into the back of the net.

Senior Reagan Smith almost equalized for the Wildcats in the 22nd minute when she took one of the Wildcats’ only shots on goal, but Musketeer goalkeeper Olivia Jenkins was able to use her tall frame to jump up and get her hands on the ball.

The Wildcats’ best opportunity for a goal in the match came in the 32nd minute, when senior Brice McInroy stole the ball from a Musketeer center back and was able to get a clear shot at the goal with Jenkins off her line. The ball went high and pinged off the crossbar, allowing the Musketeers to go into halftime with a 1-0 lead.

The second half was all

Senior midfielder Brice McInroy fends off defenders earlier this season.

Courtesy of Graydon Paul/Villanovan Photography

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