The Villanovan | Volume 116, Issue 1: January 31, 2024

WEDNESDAY JANUARY 31, 2024 www.villanovan.com @thevillanovan VOLUME 116 | ISSUE 1

STUDENT-RUN SINCE 1916

Villanova University Declares a Snow Day

Students Look Ahead: Spring 2024 Semester Preview

Natalie Murphy Staff Writer

Many woke up surprised on Jan. 16 when there was no email from the Villanova administration announcing an official snow day.

With patches of ice covering the Wildcat Path and snow on the ground for the first time in two years, several groups of people, including both staff and students, were expecting an extra day of Winter Break.

Though this was not the first “official” snowfall, as there was snow seen falling on campus in December, this was the first time the snow stuck to the ground. While there was no official cancellation from the University itself, the icy conditions still prompted several professors to schedule online calls with their classes, with some fully canceling first sessions altogether.

The status of each student’s class was dependent on their respective professors’ commute to campus. While some professors live nearby, others take public transportation or commute from further away. According to NBC Philadelphia, approximately three inches of snow fell in Delaware County and up to four in surrounding counties.

I had planned to fly back to campus from my home state of Michigan the night before the snow fall.

However, my layover in Charlotte was canceled and I was stuck in North Carolina for two days as the icy conditions in Philadelphia postponed all arriving flights. Camped out in a hotel with none of my luggage, I was also quite surprised that there was no snow day. Pictures and videos of the weather at Villanova flooded my social media.

Even coming from someone who has grown up with snow, it seemed like a large amount. My second Continued on p. 6

Cate Torrey Staff Writer

The start of a new year brings about a range of overwhelming emotions for students and faculty.

There’s an abundance of excitement, anticipation and hope for a positivity-filled semester.

These feelings of excitement and anticipation are often related to students’ new class schedules, routines and a clean slate as a result of the new year.

One aspect of the new year that students face involves taking classes that allow for self-discovery and

further development into one’s academic career.

While it can be nerve-racking, one of the greatest parts of Villanova’s education is how students are supported with their academics.

A positive aspect of the new semester is the fact that the classes are different from what students took prior to winter break.

It allows for students and professors to simply refresh and regain an aptitude for their academics.

Sophomore Matthew Hellman discussed his feelings about getting to further himself with the new semester in mind.

Villanova Students Study in Falvey Library Courtesy of Brian Luppy/Villanovan Photography

“I’m feeling good about it for sure,” Hellman said. “Beginning to take classes in the major is very exciting and I’m happy that students get the opportunity for a fresh start with each new semester.”

Junior Jennie Dapice expressed her positive outlook on the next chapter.

“I’m feeling excited to finish the last of my premed courses this semester and feel super happy to have all of my friends back from abroad this semester,” Dapice said.

Reuniting with friends and other Villanovans, whether it be after a couple weeks over winter

break, or often after being abroad for a semester, can be one of the greatest experiences as a college student.

With the new year, the winter season is also upon us, and many students are thrilled about the amount of snow we have seen compared to some other years in the past.

Getting a snow day on the first Friday of the semester was unexpected, but necessary given the intense conditions.

“Waking up and seeing the snow outside my window in the quad was awesome,” sophomore James Manion.

“I was able to play

Continued on p. 4

Reusable Cup Program Returns Post-Covid Lydia McFarlane

Former News Editor Villanova’s Dining Services and Department of Sustainability partnered to bring back the reusable cup discount program at all Holy Grounds locations.

The “Bring Your Own Cup” program was a feature of the Holy Grounds of the past, before Covid brought about heightened precautions to slow the spread of the virus, including putting a halt to allowing

customers to bring their own cups.

An Instagram post from @villanovasustainability and @ villanovadining read, “Better

latte than never—the Reusable Cup Program is back,” using a coffee pun to encourage people to participate in the program.

From Jan. 16 to Jan.

Reusable Cup Program Rules and Promotion Displayed for Students.

Courtesy of Graydon Paul/Villanovan Photography

19, Dining Services celebrated the return of the program by awarding a free 16oz coffee to anyone that brought their own reusable cup.

The program, encouraging customers to “do your share to preserve the Earth,” as seen on the same Instagram post, offers a 35-cent discount to those who bring a reusable mug at all Holy Grounds locations.

The discount is applicable to hot and iced coffee, hot and iced tea and cold brew, but not to specialty beverages.

Continued on p. 5

Desantis Ends Campaign p. 2

Library Unveils Popular Reading Collection p. 3

Villanova Hosts MLK Jr. Keynote Address p. 4

Students Celebrate First Snow Day of the Year p. 6

Behind the Scenes of Sorority Rush p. 7

Satire: 24 Totally Accurate Predictions for 2024 p. 8

Choolah: A Newcomer on South Campus p. 10

What’s In, What’s Out? New Year New Lists p. 11

Murphy, Dolan and Clayton Set New School Records p. 12

Water Polo Starts Season 4-0 p. 12

2 | The Villanovan

News 1 Opinion 6 Culture 10 Sports 12

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Wednesday, January 31, 2024

NEWS

Editor-in-Chief Editor-in-Chief Associate Editor-in-Chief Digital Editor Digital Editor News Editor News Editor News Editor Opinion Editor Opinion Editor Culture Editor Culture Editor Sports Editor Sports Editor Copy Desk Chief Photography Editor Advisor Advisor villanovan.eic@gmail.com

Indecent Assault January 28, FARLEY HALL A female resident-student reported being the victim of an indecent assault by a known male resident.

Liquor Underage / Public Drunkenness January 26, FEDIGAN HALL A male resident-student, under the age of 21, was observed intoxicated and evaluated by VEMS for alcohol intoxication.

Liquor Underage / Public Drunkenness / Carrying False Identification January 27, GOOD COUNSEL HALL A male resident-student, under the age of 21, was evaluated for alcohol intoxication and released.

CORRECTIONS

On Jan. 21, 2024, Florida governor Rob DeSantis terminated his Republican presidential campaign, pulling out of the race and eliminating his chances to ultimately win the presidency this upcoming November, AP News reported.

This decision was made between the Iowa caucus and the New Hampshire primary election.

According to the New York Times, the Iowa caucus (the first primary contest to occur in presidential election cycles since the 1970s) resulted in a landslide win for Donald Trump, who garnered 51% votes, as opposed to DeSantis’s 21.2% and Nikki Haley’s 19.1%.

The almost 30% gap between Iowan support for Trump and DeSantis demonstrates the secure lead the former has in the Republican race, potentially explaining DeSantis’s decision to suspend his campaign.

Because of DeSantis’s withdrawal, the New Hampshire primary, which took place on Jan. 23, only seriously considered two frontrunners: Trump and Haley.

DeSantis made the announcement in a video posted to X (Twitter). He mentioned his regret for the decision but also the necessity of it.

“If there was anything I could do to produce a more favorable outcome– more campaign stops, more interviews– I would do it,” he said. “But I can’t ask our volunteers to volunteer their time and donate their resources if we don’t have a clear path to victory.”

Liquor Underage / Public Drunkenness/ False Report to Law Enforcement January 28, ITHAN AVE A female resident student, under the age of 21, was evaluated for alcohol intoxication after making a false report to Public Safety.

Radnor EMS and transported to Bryn Mawr Hospital.

Buglary-Unlawful Entry (No Force) / Theft by Unlawful Taking or Disposition January 23, GOOD COUNSEL HALL A male resident student reported items valued at $360.00 stolen from his residence hall room.

Liquor Underage / Public Drunkenness January 28, STANFORD HALL A nonaffiliated female, under the age of 21, was observed intoxicated in public. Was evaluated by

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.

DeSantis Ends Campaign Zoe Garrett Political Columnist

Disorderly Conduct January 27, GOOD COUNSEL HALL A staff member reported a disturbance from several male residents inside a residence hall.

Also in the announcement, DeSantis affirmed his support for the current Republican frontrunner, Trump.

“While I’ve had disagreements with Donald Trump, such as on the coronavirus pandemic and his elevation of Anthony Fauci, Trump is superior to the current incumbent, Joe Biden. That is clear,” he said. “I signed a pledge to support the Republican nominee and I will honor that pledge.”

Both Trump and Haley responded to the announcement, praising DeSantis for his character and his accomplishments.

In a rally in Rochester, New Hampshire, Trump referred to the governor as a “really terrific” and “very capable person,” despite months of vehement back and forth between the two. Trump accepted DeSantis’s endorsement, saying that he “[looks] forward to working with Ron,” in terms of striving to secure a Republican presidency.

“He ran a great race, he’s been a good governor, and we wish him well,” Haley said when addressing DeSantis’s decision to supporters and journalists. “It’s now one fella and one lady left.”

With DeSantis’s campaign suspended, Trump and Haley will continue to vie for a spot on the ballot for November’s general presidential election.

Though one less competitor may benefit both remaining candidates, the subtraction of Trump’s most statistically close contender only widens the gap between him and Haley, thus further stabilizing his lead in the Republican race.

Trump Wins NH Primary Isabella Carlin Political Columnist The 2024 race for the White House took a turn this past week following the results of the New Hampshire Republican primary. Former President Donald Trump defeated Nikki Haley and is currently in the lead to become the 2024 Republican nominee.

Trump gained 163,700 votes, while Haley trailed with 129,646 as of Sunday. In addition, Trump secured 11 delegates and Haley obtained eight delegates. In response to his victory in New Hampshire, Trump drew attention to Haley.

“Let’s not have someone take a victory when she had a very bad night,” Trump said. “Just a little note to Nikki: She’s not going to win.”

Despite two losses in both Iowa and New Hampshire, Haley has pledged to remain in the race through the South Carolina primary on Feb. 24. Haley served as the governor of South Carolina from 2011 to 2017.

Despite these accomplishments, Haley’s fight to win her home state’s vote will be a challenge due to Trump’s growing support in the South.

“This race is far from over,” Haley said, following the closing of the polls in New Hampshire. “There are dozens of states left to go. And the next one is my sweet state of South Carolina.”

During her appearance on Meet the Press this past Sunday, Haley suggested that the primary results in South Carolina would not be the sole deciding factor in her decision to stay in the race. However, she explained that her results needed to show improvement.

“I need to show that I’m

building momentum,” Haley stated on NBC’s Meet the Press. “I don’t think that necessarily has to be a win, but it certainly has to be better than what I did in New Hampshire.”

Following his victories in Iowa and New Hampshire, Trump has garnered strong support from past competitors and influences within the Republican Party. Former GOP candidates Vivek Ramaswamy and Tim Scott appeared at Trump’s New Hampshire rally and spoke highly of him to a crowd of voters. Additionally, Ron DeSantis announced his endorsement of Trump in response to his withdrawal of the Republican primary prior to the New Hampshire primary.

“It’s clear to me that a majority of Republican primary voters want to give Donald Trump another chance,” DeSantis said, following his withdrawal from the Republican primary. “Trump is superior to the current incumbent, Joe Biden. That is clear. I signed a pledge to support the Republican nominee, and I will honor that pledge.”

Although Trump was able to capture the support of both voters and Republican politicians during the New Hampshire primary, Biden won the Democratic primary. Due to an unprecedented write-in campaign led

by Democratic leaders in New Hampshire, Biden was able to capture many votes in the Granite State.

It is now clear that Donald Trump will be the Republican nominee,” Biden announced after Trump’s victory. “And my message to the country is the stakes could not be higher.”

Trump and Haley will look to face off once more in South Carolina in the upcoming month in the battle to gain the 2024 GOP nomination.

Wednesday, January 31, 2024

The Villanovan | 3

NEWS

GEV Professor Comments on Unpredictable Weather Nicole Liddicoat Co-News Editor The variability in climate this January has been hard to ignore.

Students have been hit with snow, rain, fog and climbing temperatures all within the span of a few short weeks. With the amount of snow that Villanova received over a twoday span, the University canceled class on Friday, Jan. 19, creating a snow day for eager students.

They were able to spend the day making snow angels outside or bundling up in the comfort of their dorms.

“It has not snowed like this in a while,” a sophomore student said. “I was able to go outside and just have fun with my friends.”

While general consensus was positive, on the other hand, other Villanova students are feeling frustrated. Phrases of inconvenience included everything from, “I slipped and fell on my way to class this morning,” to “I am from Arizona.

I did not come prepared for [the snow].”

The Villanovan had the opportunity to speak with GEV Associate Professor and Geography Program Director, Stephen Strader, on what has been impacting this weather phenomenon.

“One of the big drivers right

With unpredictable weather weekly Villanovans have seen it all, from extreme fog to rain to snow.

Natalie Zickel/Villanovan Photography

now is the strong El Niño,” Strader said. “The waters off of the equatorial region being warmer than average.”

The El Niño typically brings on warmer and wetter winters for this region, with noticeable changes in temperature and precipitation. It is not uncommon for these patterns to favor coastal storms which can quickly convert to snow when temperatures drop suddenly.

The cold spell that affected this region almost two weeks ago can be attributed to what Strader called a “strong negative phase Northern Atlantic Oscillation.”

In simple terms, this largescale weather pattern calls on warm-

er air attacking the Arctic Ocean which pushes the frigid air downwards towards regions of Canada and the northeastern United States.

“The cold we experienced the last two weeks was previously sitting up over the top of the Arctic Ocean and has since gone away,” Strader said. “We go through these weekly cycles, which is what we call climate variability.”

While the nature of weather is unpredictable, these patterns help make sense of the intense weather changes. Strader mentioned the impact that climate change has on the stark differences in weather.

“These weekly climate variations exist regardless, but now

we add climate change into the mix […] which makes the atmosphere now even warmer and wetter,” Strader said. “We are kind of supercharging these big oscillations into bigger temperature extremes in our seasons. Particularly in winter when we notice it…such as going from two degrees to 60 degrees within a week.”

Using the freezing temperatures as a refutation for climate change is inaccurate. There has been an avid rise of temperatures in many other areas globally. The cold is not going to be eliminated completely, but it will become displaced and moved.

Students can expect the next few weeks to warm up with increased humidity in traditional El Niño fashion. However, Dr. Strader emphasized that our region “is not out of the woods” in terms of winter weather, as all it would take is temperatures to drop below freezing and the rain event can become snow.

Why should students care?

“We all interact with the weather every day,” Strader said.

“The first thing that people think about when they wake up is ‘What do I have to do?’ and the second thing is ‘Do I need to put on a coat or rain boots?’”

“Just get used to the rollercoaster,” Strader advised. “It seems to be the status quo for our winters.”

Falvey Library Unveils Popular Reading Collection Srihi Surapaneni Staff Writer After months of careful consideration and hard work, Falvey Library is proud to announce their newest addition to their vast collection is ready for all students to enjoy.

The new Popular Reading Collection is made up of over 400 fiction and non-fiction books ranging across a wide variety of genres. This includes new releases like Richard Osman’s ‘The Last Devil To Die’, popular literary fiction like Gabrielle Zevin’s ‘Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow’, romantic fiction like Sally Rooney’s incredibly famous ‘Normal People’, as well as fantasy, mystery, cookbooks, essay collections, and more.

To find out what Falvey’s latest feature has in store, be sure to check out the Popular Reading

Launch and Reception. This event will be held in the library’s Speaker’s Corner on Monday, Feb 5 at 1 PM. The afternoon entails some opening remarks, as well as showing gratitude to the committee of student volunteers who made the decision on which books should become the newest addition to the shelves.

Following the opening, there will be refreshments available while you can browse the newly stocked aisles, filled with selections not previously so displayed. The dedicated Falvey Library staff who worked over the past few months to coordinate and carry out this effort could not be more excited about opening up this new resource to the Villanova community.

Shawn Proctor, Falvey’s communication and marketing program manager, has said “With this new collection the Library is pleased to be able to expand its offerings to serve the whole Villanovan, beyond aca-

With this collection, Falvey now aims to not just suit academic needs, but more personal ones.

Brian Luppy/Villanovan Photography

After months of planning and preparation, Falvey Library unveiled the Popular Reading Collection.

Victoria Margenat/Villanovan Photography

demics to support personal wellness, growth, and various areas of interest.”

Falvey Library’s vast collection has always served to provide for the academic needs of students, but with this new collection, it aims to fulfill their personal ones.

After the COVID-19 pandemic in particular, many students across the country struggled with anxiety, depression, stress, and loneliness as they tried to find their new normal in a world that had completely and instantly changed.

In fact, the annual Healthy Minds Study of 133 college campuses found that in the 2021-22 school year, 44% reported symptoms of depression and 37% reported symptoms of anxiety. These numbers were the highest they had been in 15 years.

At Villanova, the emotional aftermath of the pandemic resulted in the Falvey staff deciding to make the library into an even more supportive

environment for students beyond their academics.

The Popular Reading Program was spearheaded by the library’s Collection Management Committee led by committee chair and university librarian Millicent Gaskell.

The committee is also composed of librarians with expertise in humanities, STEM, and the social sciences. The program relied on the feedback of students to ensure that it was successful in being a source of support in the Villanova community.

Though it has been almost four years since the COVID pandemic first began and it can feel as though life has gone completely back to the way we remember it, the lingering effects are still apparent today.

This new collection addresses these effects and is now one way for students to take care of their mental health while enjoying a good book.

4 | The Villanovan

Wednesday, January 31, 2024

NEWS

Villanova Students Look Ahead: Spring Semester Preview Cate Torrey Staff Writer continued from p.1 football in the snow with my friends and the three-day weekend made the transition back to school for this semester much easier.”

For some, it can be a tougher adjustment when having to develop a completely new routine and season in a seamless fashion.

There are some other stressful factors that come with

the new semester in consideration.

“Transitioning between each new season does make me a bit nervous in some ways,” freshman Gigi Roth said. “Returning back to campus after winter break can bring some difficulties with readjusting to the new environment that we, as freshman, had just gotten used to. However, I’m still really looking forward to the classes and experiences in the coming weeks.”

A significant aspect of the spring semester that students have been looking forward to involves

Villanova basketball games and getting the opportunity to embrace school spirit for the team.

Cheering at the classic Wells Fargo Center is a great part of the new semester that many Villanova students love to be a part of.

“Starting off the year with the UConn game was an incredible time,” sophomore Adam Stuecheli said. “Despite the loss, I know I and many students feel that it was the most fun they had at a basketball game so far. The energy in the stadium was electric”.

Hopefully, the team can Villanova students stroll down the West Campus quad, happy to be back for spring semester. continue to bring the energy to the Brian Luppy/Villanovan Photography

upcoming games.”

One of the greatest parts about being a college student is the excitement that college sports bring to not just the community, but especially here at Villanova, they provide an escsapee.

Villanova’s basketball team allows the opportunity for Villanova students to get to come together and bring energy that radiates throughout the campus.

Overall, students have greatly positive outlooks on the upcoming semester and are looking forward to the interesting classes, fun snow days and thrilling basketball games that are to come.

Villanova Hosts Martin Luther King Jr. Keynote Address On Wednesday, Jan. 24, Villanova hosted its 11th annual Martin Luther King Jr. Keynote Address. The keynote speaker was Pennsylvania State Representative Malcolm Kenyatta.

Kenyatta, a history-making politician as the first African American and gay man to be elected to a state office in Pennsylvania, represents the 181st district and is currently a candidate for Auditor General of Pennsylvania.

Born and raised in north Philadelphia, Kenyatta graduated from Temple University with a bachelor’s degree in strategic communication and graduated from Drexel University with a master’s degree in public communication.

A strong advocate for workers’ rights, common-sense gun safety policies and rooting out government corruption, Kenyatta was also appointed as chair of the Presidential Advisory Commission on Advancing Educational Equity, Excellence and Economic Opportunity for Black Americans one year ago.

Titled, “Bending the Arc,” Kenyatta carried King’s visions and ideology throughout his keynote, speaking on his work in the state legislature.

In his eyes, representing the 181st District of Pennsylvania is a solemn personal duty.

His work in politics and helping others, however, came

from a humble beginning; a little help from his mother.

Recalling when he was 12, Kenyatta remembered complaining to his mother about problems and issues in the community. His mother interrupted him with some simple advice that would change the trajectory of his life: “If you care so much, go do something about it.”

That propelled him to run for Junior Block Captain. This was the young start of what would become a trailblazing political career.

He believed, and still believes, we all have something we are called to do for our world.

“We are all called to do something about [issues of society],” Kenyatta said.

Kenyatta made a connection with King’s call to do something and his own.

He went into the concept of bending the moral arc towards justice, a concept King held value behind. It also served as the basis and driving force of Kenyatta’s keynote.

“The moral arc of justice does not bend just because,” Kenyatta said. “It bends because people do something about it.”

The work Kenyatta does parallels the work King did for human rights and wants to make sure that money is going to the right causes and people. His idea of a better world is simple: embracing love and community.

The keynote speech concluded with a quote from a letter

Malcolm Kenyatta (left) attends Labor Day Parade in Philadelphia.

Courtesy of Shutterstock

written by Zora Neale Hurston, an influential African American writer and anthropologist during the Harlem Renaissance era.

“I have never liked stale phrases and bodiless courage,” Kenyatta said.

Kenyatta attracted an unexpectedly large crowd of participants, as seats needed to be added to accommodate. A pillar of proof that King’s work still carries on in our world, Kenyatta is a true representation of the dream he so famously proclaimed.

In his worldview, it is not just one person who bends the arc.

It is just easier to remember it that way.

During the question portion of the keynote, Kenyatta urged students to “bend the arc” and find their spot in today’s political world.

Engagement no longer means simply running for office in Kenyatta’s eyes.

It can be as simple as voting, helping a campaign, or even running a campaign.

“When you consider yourself politically engaged, everybody does not have to run for office,” Kenyatta said. “As a young person, you can share your story with officials, you could find a campaign and support it, or if you want to, you could run yourself.”

The Villanovan | 5

NEWS

Reusable Cup Program Returns Post-Covid Lydia McFarlane Former News Editor

Students are back for the semester, and celebrate in Philadelphia at Briston Maroney concert.

Lauren Armstrong/Villanovan Photography

Dylan Johnson Staff Writer

Wednesday, January 31, 2024

Dining Services was proud to announce the program’s return, as the pandemic caused unprecedented waste due to the suspension of programs like this and the use of takeout containers in dining halls to reduce points of contact.

“Dining Services values our role in the University’s commitment to sustainability and works to implement sustainable practices wherever possible,” Jenna Rose, a nutrition promotion manager for Dining Services, said. “The reusable mug program existed for over a decade at Holy Grounds locations prior to Covid, and we’re excited to be able to relaunch this initiative.”

Rose, along with other workers, helped to lead the collaboration with the Office of Sustainability to relaunch the program.

Last year, under the guidance of Fr. John Abubakar, the University’s new chief sustainability officer, the single-use plastics task force was formed to address plastic waste on campus. The task force, convened by Dr. Jean Lutes, the Luckow Family endowed chair in English Literature and English Professor at Villanova, determined that bringing back the reusable cup program was an initiative that could help the University further reduce single-use plastic.

“The task force is thrilled

Reusable Cup Program rules and promotion displayed for students.

Graydon Paul/Villanovan Photography

that Dining Services has taken this step forward,” Lutes said.

Lutes thinks the program is another small step forward to the University-wide shift towards more sustainable practices and hopes more sustainable programs will emerge throughout the rest of dining services.

“I hope this is just the beginning of Villanova’s shift toward more sustainable practices,” Lutes said. “Every time someone brings their own cup to a Holy Grounds location and commits to washing that cup and using it again, they make everyone else more aware of the waste produced by single-use cups.”

Moving forward, Dining Services is working on tracking the purchases of disposable plastic and paper cups.

“Efforts are being made to track the usage of reusable cups to measure the environmental impact and success of the program,” Rose said.

Dining Services and the Office of Sustainability also collaborated with students to bring the reusable cup program back to campus.

Sophomore Margaux Barrett, for instance, worked on the initiative with faculty while gathering student input about how to best reinstate the program.

Focusing on rolling out marketing strategies to help increase awareness of the program across campus, Barrett said her role has given her a way to impact change.

“Being the student director of the Reusable Cup Program has been such a wonderful experience,” Barrett said. “I feel really grateful and proud to be part of a program that is actually making tangible change on campus.”

While Dining Services believes the reaction to the return of the program has been positive thus far, with Rose saying the first week received positive reception from the community, student reactions have varied.

Many students use their meal plans to purchase their drinks and snacks at Holy Grounds, so some are frustrated that the discount cannot be applied when using a meal.

The Villanovan asked for student feedback through Instagram, through which some students requested to remain anonymous.

“Not worth it for anyone on a meal plan, which is most students,” one comment said.

However, others like Holy Grounds barista and University senior Marykate Oldham, are pleased with the University’s efforts to adopt more sustainable practices in a post-covid era.

“As a barista,” Oldham said. “[I] love it.”

6 | The Villanovan

Wednesday, January 31, 2024

OPINION

OPINION

flight to Philadelphia was canceled. Luckily, I I had family friends nearby, Villanova alumni, who took me in for the next night.

However, these “snow day wishes” were fulfilled later that week on Friday, Jan. 19. Many took this as a chance to catch up on sleep, while some took their makeshift sleds to the hill by O’Dwyer and Delurey. Many were flying down hills on the underside of tables and the tops of garbage cans. Freshmen Christopher Pino, Anthony Garenani and Jacob Wong constructed a snowman

on Mendel Field, even placing a Wildcat shirt on it.

Due to Villanova’s demographically diverse student body, many students experienced snow for the first time. Those from the south and west parts of the country, including California and Texas, were excited when the fluffy white powder began to stick to the ground. Bryn Murphy, a freshman from Phoenix, had a similar experience.

“I’m from Phoenix, Arizona, a city where the coldest it gets is thirty-five degrees,” Murphy said. “I’ve seen snow in Northern Arizona before, but it was only the aftermath of a snowstorm.”

Murphy talked about how she spent the day “watching [her] favorite television show.” Other

Majo James Staff Writer ​ Life in a predominantly white institution (PWI) like Villanova is often isolating for people of color. The cultural backgrounds we hail from are often misunderstood and underrepresented on campus.

Dining Services make a well-meaning effort during cultural appreciation weeks, when staff prepare food from various cuisines, but unfortunately the results tend to be subpar. (I distinctly remember being horrified at the “Samosa casserole.)

However, diversity in food options has reached new heights with the inauguration of Choolah in Donahue Hall, open Monday through Friday for lunch (starting at 12 p.m.) and dinner.

“Our aim was to bring unique regional brands and menus to campus, particularly focusing on ethnic cuisine not currently available,” Dining Services proudly stated. “Choolaah stood out as an ideal choice, meeting our criteria on both fronts.”

Choolah prides itself on

EMMA CAHILL Editor-in-Chief ARDEN WEST Editor-in-Chief

AVERY CHALK Co-Opinion Editor KAILEY FAHY Co-Opinion Editor

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

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.

Behind the Scenes of Sorority Rush

students who had encountered snow before, still found the day off to be a refreshing surprise.

“I’m from Albany, New York, and it snows a ton where I’m from,” freshman Connor Reilly said. “It can be a real pain when I have to go out or have school during a storm. I accidentally woke up early, checked my email and saw that we had a snow day.”

Reilly took the chance to sleep in and met up with his friends later.

Overall, snow days are an excellent way to recharge and spend what is a typically busy day relaxing. Since I was a child, I remember my mother waking me

up and excitedly whispering, “You have a snow day.” The frequent ice storms and snowy conditions that cross over the Midwest provided many breaks during the winter months. However, the pandemic and Zoom allowed classes to move online. While I think this is a safe call in many situations, both students and staff deserve days off to relax and regather their thoughts.

Through the old tradition of snow days and other protocols, such as administration’s newly-implemented wellness days, the Villanova community can continue its Wildcat pride both well-rested and mentally healthy.

Choolah Review: Authentic or Americanized? being an establishment that serves as an introduction into Indian cuisine and for people to become more familiar with lesser-known dishes. The chain has already successfully opened in several other universities, such as Penn State and Bucknell.

Choolah grinds its own spices to ensure freshness, and its food marinates for the flavors to be properly absorbed. The station on campus does not have as many options as one of its restaurants but still has an impressive offering, including some of the best vegan food on campus.

It serves two curries at a time (which it rotates): tandoori chicken, paneer and samosas. Traditional tandoori chicken is made in extremely hot, special ovens.

Unfortunately, it is not practical for Choolah to set up these ovens in Donahue Hall, but the ovens are used in Choolah’s restaurant locations.

Paneer, best described to the American palate as cottage cheese cubes, is an Indian dish relatively unknown amongst American consumers that Choolah seeks to reach.

The soup-like dish that accompanies the rice are “curries.”

LETTERS TO THE EDITORS

BROOKE ACKERMAN Associate Editor-in-Chief

Students sled on cardboard boxes outside of Delurey Hall.

Maggie Fitzgerald/Villanovan Photography

For many students, the day was spent outside and with friends.

Maggie Fitzgerald/Villanovan Photography

The Villanovan | 7

OPINION

EDITORIAL BOARD

Villanova Celebrates First Snow Day of the Year Natalie Murphy Staff Writer Continued from p. 1

Wednesday, January 31, 2024

I have heard them being referred to as a variety of things, including one Villanovan who asked for “more of that yellow sauce.” The yellow sauce in question was the lentil based curry, a delicacy from southern India (where I happen to be from).

I am not so naive as to want everybody to know everything about every culture around the world, but restaurants like Choolah are perfect places for people to learn more. At the very least, learning how to properly say the food you are eating would be a great place to start.

Students are, however, reporting dissatisfaction with portion sizes. One student reports asking for nothing but samosas and still receiving a single one. This would not be a problem (as students can simply come back for more helpings) if it were not for the fact that Choolah often has the longest lines of any of the other stations.

“To become operational, we are offering the serving sizes suggested by Choolaah and are reviewing moving forward,” Dining Service stated in response to these concerns.

I admit, I had my reservations about Choolah. I was worried that it was pandering to

Chipotle-like rice bowls.

Yet none of these are deal breakers for me. I still love Choolah. It excels in what it strives to be: an introduction to Indian cuisine.

I would, however, best describe it as serving food made of Indian components, rather than Indian food itself. I recommend that Villanovans expand their horizons by seeking out traditional Indian restaurants around the Bryn Mawr area for the most authentic culinary experience.

“Right now the plan for Choolaah is to remain on South Campus at Donahue, but our team is always on the lookout for other opportunities to expand diverse offerings on campus,” Dining Services stated.

Since its introduction, Choolah has proven to be a smashing success. Villanovans love the appearance of new food options on campus (though it seems many would have preferred an on-campus Chick-fil-A).

Hopefully, the overwhelming positive response will encourage Villanova to pursue more diverse culinary options on campus.

Lexie Scibilia Staff Writer As one of the many girls who recently embarked on the adventure of rushing a sorority, my journey ultimately led me to accept a bid with a sorority I love. The Panhellenic Primary Recruitment process unfolds in a series of rounds: sisterhood, philanthropy and preference. The process concludes with bid day. From the highs of engaging conversations to the lows of swift rejections, stress was an ever-present companion for Potential New Members, known as PNMs. I found that each sorority harbored genuinely nice women, defying the stereotypes that often precede them. However, the joy of each round was starkly contrasted by the disheartening manner in which results were communicated. An email would arrive a mere hour before the first bus departure of the morning, listing the sororities extending invitations to each PNM. I felt confident after many of the five-minute conversations, only to be crestfallen when some sororities didn’t call me back. The next day didn’t bring any surprises for me, but witnessing the disappointment of fellow freshmen juxtaposed with the cheers of their friends was tough. The lack of notice before the rounds didn’t allow sufficient time to process emotions, leaving a feeling of frustration for PNMs. Cali Carss, a freshman who experienced rush, spoke to this frustration. “Every upperclassman I talked to played it down a lot, so I was a little blindsided by how stressful it

Despite the challenges and the negative aspects highlighted, my rush journey had undeniably positive moments. Great conversations, the joy of dressing up with friends and the ultimate satisfaction of finding a sorority to call home are memories that shine through the more challenging aspects of the process.

“I had a very great experience,” freshman Jasmin Sabala said.

“Every day I went in full of nerves, and then when I got into the room, everyone was very friendly.”

It was disheartening to learn The Villanova Inn, where the in-person rounds of sorority recruitment take place. that this year’s spots were limited due Avery Chalk/Villanovan Photography to an attempt to establish a new sorority on campus, which unfortunately was,” Carss said. rejected by their first choice. Regardfell through. Many women were The gravity of the rush less of the outcome, it can be a highly excited to be the founding members, process became painfully evident stressful moment. only to be let down. during preference day as well as the “You don’t get any time to I believe that everyone should night before bid day, with numerous process a lot of the information,” rush, armed with an open mind. It’s women choosing to drop out of the freshman Megan Bolger said. “I an experience that shapes both the entire process. The morning of bid expected it to be cutthroat, but it was Greek life community and the indiday brought a harsh reality. Advisors still tough.” vidual, fostering growth, self-discovery known as Rho Gammas made calls to During the rush process, and lasting connections. those who did not receive a bid. The despite assurances to the contrary, “I highly recommend that evheartbreaking sounds of sobbing in some sororities subtly delved into eryone tries it, and if you don’t like it bathroom stalls echoed the emotional personal attributes such as looks, Insyou can always drop,” freshman Ally toll of rejection. It was an extremely tagram followers and financial status. Lombardo said. “But I promise you intense moment later in the day when The barrage of questions about my won’t regret doing it.” bid envelopes were opened, as both background, travel experiences and I rushed at Villanova to make happiness and disappointment filled whether I went to a public or private new connections. Despite the chalthe air of Mendel Field. school were overwhelming, highlight- lenging process, my decision to accept An aspect that struck a chord ing the unspoken biases at play. a bid has quickly proven worthwhile. was the absence of a break at bid day The impact of rejection went In just over a week, I’ve seen my before heading to off-campus activbeyond mere disappointment, as hopes materialize, experiencing the ities. I wished for a pause, because many felt their insecurities about looks supportive sisterhood and personal although I was thrilled where I ended or personality reinforced. The struggle growth I sought. The Panhellenic up, some were upset about their to reconcile with these feelings was a community’s sense of unity reinforces placements. Even though many were common thread among those who did the rewards of sorority life outweigh content with the bid they ultimately not receive bids from their top choicthe initial challenges of the rush proreceived, it was simply upsetting to be es. cess.

Villanova’s Shuttle Service: An Easier Way to Travel?

shuttle is at any given moment.

“I get to my destination the time it says on the app,” freshman Hannah Sullivan said. “It is getting more reliable.”

With the new (and frigSullivan uses the shuttle for id) semester upon us, Villanova late-night dance practices on West students are adjusting to both the Campus, which is quite a hike winter weather conditions as well as their new schedules. This means from South Campus, where most new classrooms, new class times as freshmen are housed. Her only well as new routes and paths. This complaint is that the shuttle’s last stop is at 9 p.m., an hour before can pose a major challenge when her practice ends. This leaves her the brisk conditions are discouraging students from going to class. to walk back in the dark and cold at 10 p.m.

Whether the snow and chilly air Other students may have are too unbearable or the walk is sports practices on another camsimply too long, the free school pus or are visiting friends who live shuttles are a remedy to both of far away. Main Campus freshmen these issues. can take the shuttle to eat with Villanova’s Wildcat ShutSouth Campus freshmen in the tle runs from 7:30 a.m. until 9:00 Donahue dining hall. The shutp.m. Mondays through Fridays. tle is particularly helpful in those The shuttles take six stops total, scenarios because it encourages which cover all three campuses, coming back to any given stop ev- and facilitates students going out and doing activities even with the ery 25 minutes. The schedule can be found on the Villanova website winter weather.

There are also students or the NovaSafe app, which has who utilize the bus to go to class, real time updates of where the Riley Haubert Staff Writer

especially South Campus freshmen who have classes on West Campus. The walk from South to West is (according to Google Maps) approximately a 19-minute excursion. This walk may not seem too bad on paper, but, in the early hours of the morning or during the freezing cold winds, it can feel like an eternity.

However, taking the shuttle means getting to a destination a little early and waiting in the cold for the shuttle to arrive. Showing up exactly on time creates the risk of not getting a seat or missing the bus altogether. To counter this, there are express stops at South Campus, the Main Gate and Connelly Circle between 7:30 and 8:00 am, when a rush of students are trying to get to their first class. This allows for a maximum amount of trips and it also gets rid of any wasted time at the additional stops along the way that South Campus students would not be needing (like the law school).

The scheduled stops hap-

pen at the same times every single day, which make it easy to tell when the shuttle will be coming, even if the app may not be accurate. According to Villanova’s website, those with disabilities can call to request a mobility shuttle, which runs in addition to the Wildcat Shuttle.

Overall, the Wildcat Shuttle is well-used, relatively timely and also encourages students to go out to different parts of campus even when the weather is not cooperating. It is another way that creates the community feeling and interconnectedness of Villanova.

Although Villanova’s campus may not be as big as other campuses that utilize shuttles, it is still very beneficial to have them.

If students are looking to figure out how the shuttles fit into their class and activities schedule, they can visit the Villanova Parking & Transportation website. The schedule can also be found on the NovaSafe app and shows specific times and locations.

Wednesday, January 31, 2024

OPINION

8 | The Villanovan

Trump’s Hold on the Republican Party Remains Absolute

appears that Haley has much of a Carter Smith chance at securing the Republican Staff Writer nomination. Associated Press has called the New Hampshire race for For those of us who believe Trump, with the New York Times the Republican party is ready to reporting that the former president move on from former President secured 54.3% of the vote, with deDonald J. Trump, the results of the cisive leads in eight of 10 counties.

Iowa Caucus and New Hampshire While the opinions of voters primary stand as a bold slap to the in Iowa and New Hampshire are face. not necessarily indicative of how Since Trump was defeated by Republicans in the other 48 states President Joe Biden in the 2020 election, the topic of who would will vote, they are generally regardreplace him as the face of a changed as such. Ergo, the chance that ing Republican party and represent Trump will be the candidate which it in the 2024 election has been up the GOP offers up to debate Biden for debate. increases by the week.

In the days following the Despite what those of us on events in Iowa and New Hampshire, the left think about the competency the answer to the question of who of the former president, it is hard will replace Trump seems to be, to argue his success. In the lead up well, Trump. to 2016, he worked his way up from In the Iowa Caucus, the a joke candidate to the Republican first Republican primary, the New nominee against established, career York Times reported that Trump politicians and won in the general achieved landslide victories in all but election versus a storied Democrat, one of the 99 counties in the state.

Hillary Clinton. Now, Trump is still He garnered 51% of the popular by far and away the leading canvote, with the next closest candidate, didate in another election full of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, career politicians, while having been netting a mere 21.2%. impeached, as well as being indicted Following Iowa being called and still on trial for his numerous for Trump, DeSantis and biotech crimes. entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, In the years following the two of Trump’s major competitors Trump Presidency, DeSantis, Haley, for the 2024 GOP presidential nom- Ramaswamy and their comrades ination, dropped out of the race, have been hailed as the flag bearleaving former-U.N. Ambassador ers for the new GOP. But, Trump’s Nikki Haley as the only party figure continued dominance proves they, with any chance of rivaling the for- like young Luke Skywalker, still have mer president’s bid. much to learn.

However, it no longer Rewinding again to 2016,

Trump gained popularity because he kowtowed to the fears of all aspects of the Republican voter base, promising to curb immigration, renegotiate much of America’s involvement in international trade and climate agreements, pursue a more aggressive stance on the Middle East and China and, of course, the conservative catch-all: lower taxes.

Trump’s success is also due to his status as an outsider. He is not a product of the system in Washington, which can often seem far away and aloof to the demands of the American people. He rallied his voters behind a promise to “drain the swamp,” or to gut the allegedly faithless electorate and make the government work in the interest of its people, not the globalizing world.

Trump’s populist message, captured in the snazzy taglines such as “Make America Great Again” and “America First,” managed to resonate with enough of the country to propel him to the White House once, and now he aims to do it again.

Trump has also fully grasped the power of the media to influence the public. By saying and doing crazy things both on the campaign trail and in the Oval Office, he has consistently stayed in the news and on the minds of American voters.

While in office, he exploited its powers to hand out cabinet jobs and high level access to his cronies, inspiring widespread loyalty and obedience to the point where going

against him would lead to being exorcized from the mainline GOP decision-making process. The effects of this practice can still be seen on the campaign trail today, where the challengers must be careful about how their messaging may interfere with the party narrative which Trump’s success built.

In addition, it is worth noting that all the candidates who have dropped out have endorsed Trump instead of somebody like DeSantis, who was largely viewed as Trump’s greatest adversary.

The unfortunate truth is that Trump’s success has deeply affected the Republican party and their voters. His path to the office proved that one does not need to be a career politician to become president and while in office he gave enough jobs to his cronies to inspire widespread loyalty. Deliverance on his promises combined with a favorable economic backdrop, built a legacy of success for him and his party.

Up-and-coming Republican leaders are defined by and compared to Trump and his policies.

Many of the career politicians in the mix, despite their popularity, are often seen as too similar to the old establishment to convert any of Trump’s loyal voters.

If any of the rapidly ascending heads of the GOP wish to become their party’s nominee in 2028, they should take a long look at the improbable rise of failed real estate tycoon Trump.

24 Totally Accurate Predictions for 2024 Sof Quaglia Satire Columnist The following content is purely satirical and entirely fictional. Don’t believe everything you read!

Move over, Nostradamus; it’s time for me to step in and tell everyone the truth about the future. I may not be an astrologer, but I was a biology major for one semester.

This makes me absolutely qualified to tell you the 24 things that I am positive will occur in the year 2024.

I can assure you that all of these events will happen this calendar year.

1. Someone will trip and turn around to see if anyone saw them.

2. Oppenheimer will win Best Picture at the Oscars.

3. They will revive Walt Disney’s frozen body.

4. A volcano will erupt underwater, and nobody will know.

5. Shohei Ohtani will be in a hitting slump for the first half of the season, causing the Dodgers to question everything.

6. Scientists will discover life on another planet, but the life is actually just birds that flew into space.

7. A girl’s mom will ask, “Are you really going to wear that out?”

These 24 predictions are sure to come true in 2024. Biologically proven.

Courtesy of Shutterstock

8. Taylor Swift will release both Reputation (Taylor’s Version) and Taylor Swift (Taylor’s Version).

14. Villanova will remove all its printers, and professors will no longer be able to make their students print.

9. Elon Musk will buy popular apps 15. Suki Waterhouse and Robert and rename them letters of the alpha- Pattinson will name their baby Renesbet until he collects all 26 letters, like mee.

Infinity Stones.

16. Someone will get to a restaurant 10. Students will continue to apply before the rush and say, “We got here to, get into, go to and graduate from right in time.”

Villanova.

17. Usher will bring Lil Jon and Lu11. Side parts will eventually come dacris out at the Super Bowl Halftime back in style.

Show to sing “Yeah.”

12. The United States will combine Virginia and West Virginia into one Mega-Virginia.

18. Someone will come up with the cure for a disease in a dream and win a Nobel Prize.

13. A student will walk out of an exam saying, “I definitely failed,” before finding out that they actually got a B+.

19. The Super Bowl MVP will say, “I’m going to Disney World.”

20. Grey’s Anatomy will get renewed.

21. All police horses in New York City will revolt and take over.

22. Someone will say a joke and then their friend will say it louder. All their friends will only laugh at the second person, leaving the first joke teller to feel dejected and isolated.

23. The United States will win gold in Gymnastics, Swimming and Track and Field at the Summer Olympics.

24. Villanova will let students use ChatGPT to come up witwh jokes to make their professors laugh. If the professor laughs, the student gets an A+ for the semester.

There you have it. All 24 of those events will occur with absolute certainty. Have a great 2024 and do not be freaked out when it turns out that I was right.

A OV

AN

L VIL

DINING SERVICES

Villanova Dining Services

Thursday, 2/1/24

recipes from “Between Harlem and Heaven”

By Alexander Smalls & Jj Johnson

Thursday, 2/22/24

Thursday, 2/29/24

recipes from “Soul”

recipes from “My America”

By Todd Richards

By Kwame Onwuachi

In celebration of Black History Month, Donahue, Dougherty, & St. Mary’s will feature recipes from renowned Black chefs across the country on Thursdays during dinner!

Wednesday, January 31, 2024

The Villanovan | 10

CULTURE

CULTURE

A Newcomer on South Campus Cali Carss Staff Writer The dining halls on Villanova’s campus are well-known to every student. Many students visit one or the other multiple times a day, whether seeking a quick meal to go or an hours-long debrief with friends over dinner.

The most known, and arguably the most beloved, dining hall at Villanova is undoubtedly the Court at Donahue (colloquially known as “Spit”). Positioned in the center of South Campus, Donahue is home base for a majority of the freshman class every year. It’s where group dinners are held, friendships are formed and “late night” saves lives.

The dining halls are not unfamiliar with change happening throughout this school year. Both Donahue and Dougherty have gotten brand-new ice cream machines in recent months, which have been received with much enthusiasm by students.

However, an even larger change occurred during Winter Break. Upon returning for Spring Semester, students were shocked to find a new food station opening at Donahue. It is called Choolaah, which is a local Indian restaurant chain specializing in North Indian cuisine. It has multiple locations around Pennsylvania and Ohio, the closest one to Villanova being in the mall in King of Prussia.

Its website champions a mission centered around community, reminiscing on fresh bread from

communal ovens made for sharing.

It prides itself on having a menu fit for everyone, with options for vegan and vegetarian diners, as well as an established sensitivity for people who are wary of spice.

The menu on its website is expansive, featuring bowls, wraps, street food and more. The menu offered in Donahue is significantly smaller, with only two protein and sauce options served over rice. Nonetheless, Choolaah was received warmly by the Villanova community.

As previously acknowledged, this change was largely a surprise to many students upon their return, but has been welcomed as a much needed addition to the regular dining options available across campus. Many frequent Spit diners, like freshman Emma McGuire, are happy with the new options, but are wary about its future appeal. “[Choolaah] is good, it’s the best chicken on campus, hands down,” McGuire said. “The sauces are great, too, but it’s the same thing every day. I love it right now, but I could imagine it getting old.”

This lack of variety could contribute to a decline in interest around Choolaah’s station as students become more familiarized with its presence. With other stations in Donahue cycling through very different offerings every week, Choolaah may begin to pale in comparison.

Choolaah may have filled a gap in Donahue momentarily by providing the excitement of something new, but as the grand-opening rush wears off, it seems more lackluster than anything else.

Choolaah Indian BBQ pictured in The Court at Donahue Dining Hall.

Courtesy of Sophie Latessa

Freshman Audrey Finneli echoed this sentiment.

“I like it, but since they always have the same things,” Finneli said. “I think I’ll get tired of it.”

Others, while appreciative of the impulse to provide dining hall variety, believe dining services could be improved by continually changing menu options.

“I think it would be better if they brought in a new place every

other month or so,” freshman Meagan Clancy said.

Viable or not, this proposal is enticing. It allows students to have more options that they are excited about without giving them time to get too tired of it. All in all, Choolaah has been a fascinating installment to return to for this new semester, and even despite the concerns students may have for the future, many are thoroughly enjoying it right now.

Winter Break Recap and Spring Semester Plans Kalyani Halsband Staff Writer It’s out with the old, and in with the cold. Whether one is appropriately bundled up in the classic North Face puffer and UGG boots seemingly characteristic of Villanova students or braving the below-freezing digits in a mere T-shirt and flip-flops, the abrupt plunge of the weather has introduced the so-called “spring” semester of 2024 with a frigid, but exciting nonetheless, start.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, conditions were much more favorable before students departed for winter break, a much-needed recess from the hours of studying, all-nighters and stress of finals week. Whether one headed home to celebrate the winter holidays in the company of family and high school friends or escaped to a tropical paradise, the break was largely a worry-free time of relaxation, recovery and, most importantly, no schoolwork.

While the comforts of home are irreplaceable, many students have been eager to return to a structured routine and reunite with their college friends. Moreover, many students express hopefulness for this semester and its

exciting opportunities and events, particularly Wells Fargo basketball games with competitive teams and “rush,” or sorority and fraternity recruitment.

Like many students, freshman Grace Johnson took the break as an opportunity to spend time with high school friends and family after months apart. Back on campus, she now hopes to test her luck with tickets for upcoming basketball games.

“It was really nice to be home over break and see my family and friends for the holidays, but I’m happy to be back and get into a schedule and a routine again,” Johnson said. “I’m really excited to go to basketball games this semester, especially some of the bigger ones.”

Freshman Angela Choi expressed similar gratitude for the holiday repose but is eager to be back on campus to make new friends and take new classes, which began on Tuesday, Jan. 16.

“I really enjoyed having time to relax over break, but I’m excited to meet new people in my classes and branch out,” Choi said.

Not only are students able to experiment with new areas of study and potentially delve into their major courses, but they also

have the opportunity to form new connections with classmates and professors alike. The return of club meetings, too, allows students to further their participation in a previous beloved club or try out new ones.

Another exciting feature of the University’s Spring Semester is students’ ability to partake in recruitment, particularly for freshmen, as first-year students are required to wait until their second semester to rush in order to ease into college life. Students all of other years also had the opportunity to rush if they desired.

Students interested in rushing for a sorority returned to campus on Jan. 10. to participate in the activities, events and rounds of recruitment, which took place both virtually and in-person.

Ava Hunn, a new member of Alpha Chi Omega, commented on her experience as one of many freshmen who participated in sorority recruitment.

“While the rush process was long and stressful at times, I’m ultimately so glad to be in Alpha Chi Omega,” Hunn said. “It’s allowed me to to meet and form friendships with so many nice girls that I otherwise would never have met.”

It’s no secret that the lengthy rush process can be overwhelming and stressful at times.

The chance to learn about various sororities’ philanthropies and form genuine connections with current members as well as others that rushed, however, seemed to make the process worthwhile for many.

“I especially enjoyed the philanthropy round because it gave me the chance to ask questions and connect with current members,” Hunn said.

Sorority and fraternity recruitment, the start of new classes and clubs, an exciting basketball season and the opportunity to branch out and cultivate new relationships are only a few key components of the University’s Spring Semester. Of course, the shift of the seasons to what most think of when they hear “spring” - pleasant warm weather, the blooming of flowers and the ability to glance outside after 4 p.m. and not see a depressingly dark sky - is also eagerly anticipated by many.

Regardless of how students spent their winter breaks and of their plans for the new semester, students are reunited on campus once again for a wonderful time until the upcoming Spring Break, looming teasingly ahead.

11 | The Villanovan

CULTURE

Wednesday, January 31, 2024

A Campus Soundtrack: Beating to the Sound of New Season Zara Black Staff Writer As the air chills and trees stand bare, the music filling the ears of students making their way around campus shifts. Embracing the albums of Taylor Swift, Frank Ocean, Zach Bryan and Noah Kahan, calmer and slower tunes have replaced the upbeat music that accompanied the holiday and fall season.

With rain falling to the sound of Swift’s “Cardigan” as one sits tucked away near a window reading their favorite book, or a summer drive accompanied by the blaring sound of Declan McKenna’s “Brazil,” music acts as the soundtrack to life.

Yet, like music blends with the backdrop of a scene found in a movie, the lyrics and beats people listen to are often impacted by the ever-changing climate surrounding As the seasons change, students are listening to different music on campus. us. Freshman Jack Tucker commented Graydon Paul/Villanovan Photography on how he believes the beats of Frank of music taste. The pattern of exin emotion associated with the shift Ocean’s album Blonde pairs with ploring different sounds that correlate from season to season, according to slower winter days, finding the album with mood, emotions and the spells psychologytoday.com. to be his go to when studying late at of weather that occur outside dorm With the crisp air and chillnight during the colder months. windows can be explained by science. ing wind lingering around campus, “I find that Blonde, the album In an article written for Psystudents are gravitating toward

by Frank Ocean, is definitely one of chology Today, journalist Vinita Mesounds that may reflect their moods my most played albums during the hta looked toward psychology for the about the dreary weather. Freshman winter and fall,” Tucker said. “It’s answers as to why music preference Rita Collins discussed the noticejust more calming and when it gets seems to change with the chilling able change she saw in her Spotify colder and darker out quicker, I find cold and sweltering heat that comes Wrapped this past year, as varying myself turning toward that vibe of and goes throughout the year.

When artists and sounds were seen throughmusic more when doing homework looking into a study psychologist Terout different months and seasons. than that of his other albums.” ry Pettijohn completed, Mehta found “I think my music taste totally Trends of creating playlists that the change in playlists and music changes throughout the year and I for each season, month and year have preferences can often be attributed to feel like it was most evident when I left Spotify, Apple Music and other daylight savings.

Pettijohn correlated looked back at my Spotify Wrapped platform users in a constant rotation this change in taste with the change at the end of the year,” Collins said.

“During the winter I listen to music that is slower with my playlists mostly consisting of Zac Bryan and SZA, whereas in the summer I love listening to Morgan Wallen.”

Just as Taylor Swift has had numerous different eras, people tend to go through their own, as they shift between her different albums throughout the year. With Swift’s music ranging from calmer tones found in Evermore and Folklore as she sings about a draining breakup, to lyrics you can scream from Lover and 1989, her music embodies this change.

Freshman Sophie Trinh, a massive Swift fan, unpacked her favorite songs and the different seasons they all fit within.

“My mood definitely changes throughout each season and I think when looking at my music, I favor certain Taylor Swift albums and songs in the winter that I don’t find on my summer playlists,” Trinh said. “I absolutely love the song ‘August’ and listening to it reminds me of the summer, however, I wouldn’t really gravitate toward it in other seasons. The same goes for the song ‘Dorothea’, as its calming tone establishes its place on the playlists I curate during the later months of the year.”

As a new season approaches and students get ready to brainstorm new playlist names, songs and aesthetics, headphones will be filled with the different beats, tones and noises as the shift from mellow winter moods begins. With spring on the horizon, and the promise of warmer weather coming with it, upbeat lyrics will be heard from dorm windows as the flowers bloom and days extend.

What’s In and What’s Out? Villanova Students Share Aspirations for New Year Cali Carss Staff Writer With a new year comes many new resolutions intended to reimagine and reinvent our life. In this vein, a new trend has emerged on social media that gives people a chance to share how they plan to enter the new year.

Commonly referred to as “ins and outs” for 2024, everyone seems to have their own list, and every list has something unique to add. Villanova students are no exception. Whether it’s a serious goal, a silly resolution among friends or anything in between, Villanovans certainly know exactly how they want to enter both the new year and the new semester.

Some of these resolutions are specific to Villanova and are sure to be defended passionately by any student who agrees with them. Freshman Audrey Finneli declared Café Nova’s gelato to be “in,” while the new Holy Grounds in Mendel, which doesn’t take meal swipes as payment, is decidedly “out.”

Another “out” felt by many freshmen is returning to another semester of ACS readings. As valuable as the class may be, by the second semester, many students are looking for something new and Moderns feels, well, the opposite of its name.

Returning to the realm of

our dining services, sophomore Emma Spangler has decided that Dougherty Hall (Pit) food is “out” in 2024.

Beyond our campus’s “ins and outs,” a popular “in” has been New York Times word games.

Spangler pointed specifically to the relatively new game— Connections— as something she is starting in 2024. Students all over campus can be found playing numerous New York Times games, but lately, Connections has been all the rage. She also pointed to rom coms and tote bags as things she is choosing to bring into her new year.

Freshman Emma Cote took a more general route with her “ins” for 2024, neatly summed up as not taking yourself so seriously.

Regardless of year, this sentiment of embracing the fun is important, and unanimous with seniors like Matt Krase, who declared that saying “no” to going out is, in fact, “out.”

Some of the other things Krase decided are “in” were getting eight or more hours of sleep and morning yoga, both of which sound like a dream in the midst of adjusting to busy new schedules.

Finally, several “outs” that deserve to be highlighted are single-use plastic, overconsumption and products with harmful chemicals. The new year brings the perfect chance to reflect on collective choices and priorities over the

Daily word games continue to be “in” in 2024.

Emma Cahill/Villanovan Digital

last 12 months, and deciding to be more environmentally conscious will never go out of style. These resolutions are things everyone can and should take into 2024.

Serious or not, this trend of new year “ins and outs” is a

fun way to express the energy one hopes to bring into 2024. It can really encompass all facets of life and give people an insight into their personality and priorities, and expressing oneself, even just through a trend, is always “in.”

Wednesday, January 31, 2024

CULTURE

The Villanovan | 12

SPORTS

Villanova men’s and women’s track and field competed in the Penn State National Open at Horace Ashenfelter III Indoor Track in University Park, Pennsylvania. The open took place over two days, Jan. 26 and Jan. 27.

The open was highlighted by indoor school records. For the men, senior Liam Murphy and fifth-year Sean Dolan both set track records. For the women, senior Roschell Clayton set a jumping record.

Murphy competed in the mile and recorded a record-breaking time of 3:53.85. It broke the Villanova indoor mile record, which stood for 44 years.

Murphy’s time is a top-20 indoor mark in NCAA history. His performance also breaks his facility and meets records at Penn State which he set last year by running 3:55.58. His new record is the third-fastest mile at any location in the United States by a Villanova runner during their collegiate career.

“That was impressive,” Villanova men’s track and field head coach Marcus O’Sullivan said.

“That was Don Paige’s 44-year-old record. I consider [Paige] one of the best. I think that was a really good performance by Murphy.”

Murphy was not the only sub-four minute miler for the

Wildcats.

In the same race, sophomore Marco Langon ran a personal best time of 3:56.24, and junior Sean Donoghue secured his first career sub-four minute mile with a time of 3:58.86.

“I tell kids if they only do [a sub-four mile] once, and once only, it will still stick with them for the rest of their life,” O’Sullivan said. “The moment you start a conversation with ‘I ran a sub-four mile,’ it immediately sets a tone.”

Dolan was the next athlete to set an indoor Villanova record.

Dolan broke his indoor 800 meter

record, finishing in 1:46.96. He became the first Villanova athlete to break 1:47 indoors in the 800 meters. Dolan now holds five of the 10 fastest indoor times in the school record book.

Sophomore Amiri Prescod recorded the second-fastest time in school history in the preliminaries of the 60-meter dash. Prescod’s time of 6.79 ties him for the Big East conference lead this season.

On Saturday, senior Roschell Clayton broke the school’s indoor record with a mark of 1.85 meters. Clayton’s performance gives her sole possession of the

Senior Liam Murphy broke a 44-year-old indoor mile school record.

Courtesy of Villanova Athletics

record after she had tied the old record in her season debut two weeks ago. Clayton has had four straight successful jumps in both competitions of the indoor season.

Clayton was the winner out of the field of 26 jumpers.

Two weeks ago, Clayton recorded a personal best jump of 1.84 meters to tie former teammate Sanaä Barnes at the top of the school’s indoor performance list. Clayton beat the record by a centimeter.

Graduate student Alex Payne recorded the fifth-longest weight throw in school history.

Payne threw 16.95 meters in the invitational portion. It is the fifthbest distance in school history.

Payne is second overall on the Villanova performance list in the weight throw behind school record holder Sade Meeks who owns each of the four top marks in the program record book.

Fifth-year athletes Adria Retter and Jordan Williams each moved up on the school’s top-10 performance list during the weight throw. Retter threw 16.33 meters on her third throw of the day to qualify for the final. She holds seventh place in school history in the event. Williams threw for 15.64 meters on her second attempt on Friday night.

Villanova will have athletes in competition at the Scarlet Knight Open hosted by Rutgers.

The competition will take place at The Armory on Feb. 2.

Water Polo Starts Season 4-0 Brandon Nesmith Staff Writer This past weekend, Villanova women’s water polo began its season by hosting the Villanova Invitational.

The Wildcats went 4-0 in the tournament, defeating Mercyhurst, Iona, Mount St. Mary’s and Gannon. The 4-0 start to the season is the best start in program history.

On Saturday, the ‘Cats defeated Mercyhurst, 18-8. They then followed that win by defeating Iona, 10-8. Coming off two strong wins, the Wildcats looked to carry that momentum into Sunday’s doubleheader.

The ‘Cats are led by firstyear head coach Michael Gordon.

Gordon is a familiar face in the program, as he first joined the staff in 2018 as an assistant coach.

Gordon graduated from Villanova, where he was a two-time All-American on the club men’s water polo team. As roles within the program change, the goal for it remains to reach the MAAC Championships.

The first of the two games played on Sunday was against Mount St. Mary’s.

The Wildcats got off to a strong start, leading by as much as five in the contest.

However, the Mountaineers

Villanova trounced Gannon, 18-8.

Victoria Margenat/Villanovan Photography

mounted a comeback in the final minutes.

Villanova managed to pull out a narrow victory, 12-11.

The team is powered by its two senior captains, attacker Stella Byles and goalie Abigail Shelby.

Byles scored a total of four goals with her last one coming at the 2:30 mark to put the Cats up three. Shelby has also been great on the defensive end, as she recorded another six save performance in the victory.

“They lead by example,” Gordon said. “They work very hard in practice, they keep the team in line making sure everyone is doing drills the right way and holding peo-

Wednesday, January 31, 2024

SPORTS

Men’s Tennis Falls to Drexel, Women’s Tennis Goes 0–2

Murphy, Dolan and Clayton Set New School Records Dylan Johnson Staff Writer

13| The Villanovan

WEEKLY SCOREBOARD

Aidan Shay Staff Writer Last Friday, Villanova men’s tennis hosted Drexel, losing, 6-1, in the first match of the winter season.

The Wildcats took doubles by winning two of three matches. Senior Josh Robinson and freshman Thomas Wakefield started off the match with a 6-3 win over Drexel’s Alex De Sousa and Alan Jesudason.

The opening win was then followed by junior Lukas Choi and freshman Will Monahan’s match against Will Burridge and Hussein El Tawil, as Choi and Monahan narrowly outlasted the Drexel duo and won 6-4. Sophomore Cooper Gordan and senior Eitan Khromchenko fell, 6-4, in what was a back-and-forth match against Alessio Azzalini and Egor Kiraosov.

As for singles, Villanova dropped all of its matches. In the opening spot, Robinson fell to Jesudason. Senior Ryan Nguyen faced Drexel’s El Tawil and lost. Monahan was in third position for the day, taking on De Sousa, being routed by the latter after winning the first set, in a competitive series.

Wakefield and Azzalini played a tight match in which the first set went into a tiebreaker, with Azzalini eventually prevailing, 7-6, winning the last set. In the fifth spot, Khromchenko fell, 6-2 and 6-1, against Burridge.

Rounding out the match for Villanova was Choi, who fell in the final set (2-6, 7-5, 10-4) in a close match with Josue Guzman.

The Wildcats hope to re-

Jan. 24 – Jan. 30

Wednesday, January 24 Women’s Basketball @ Providence 76–82 OT L Men’s Basketball @ St. John’s 50–70 L Thursday, January 25

Women’s tennis traveled to Delaware, falling 6–1, and Navy, losing 5–2, over the weekend.

Courtesy of Villanova Athletics

bound on the road in their next match against Colgate on Feb. 3.

The women’s tennis team had a busy weekend, traveling to play matches against Delaware on Saturday and Navy on Sunday, dropping both competitions.

The Wildcats traveled to Newark, Delaware on Saturday to face the Blue Hens and fell, 6-1.

Delaware won all three doubles matches, and in singles freshman Lauren Monti won the first single match of the spring season for the Wildcats, playing out of the sixth spot.

Sunday’s match against Navy proved to be more competitive, but Villanova still ended up coming short, losing, 5-2. Junior Valieriia Kornieva and graduate Amanda Rivera-Gonzalez lost against Navy’s Kate Lee and Parvathi Shanker in doubles play, giving Navy an early edge.

The Wildcats rallied to claim the doubles point, as the sophomore pair of Emily Callahan and Maggie

Gehrig defeated Makaila Cheng and Olivia Fermo, 6-3, and the duo of freshman Miram Gondorova and graduate Ami Grace Dougah held off a late surge from Stella Ribaudo and Emily Tannenbaum. Navy would then win five singles matches, and would rise to an all time record of 11-0 against Villanova.

Before Villanova lost to Navy, its losses were to regionally ranked teams in Penn and Delaware.

“Right now, I’m in the process of trying to figure out our best six singles players,” women’s tennis head coach Steve Reiniger said. “Right now we have more depth than we did in the past, so it’s more of a challenge.

Opening up against tough teams will only help us in our Big East play. We play Providence Feb. 3 so this experience will only help us.”

The Wildcats will be back in action next weekend, when they travel to Lehigh on Feb. 2 and Providence on Feb. 3.

Men’s and Women’s Swim Compete in WV Ali Benjamin Staff Writer

Water Polo beat Mount St. Mary’s, 12-11.

Victoria Margenat/Villanovan Photography

ple accountable to be instilled with that hard work ethic they have.”

Another player attempting to become a memorable name is freshman attacker Emmie Mallory from Encinitas, California. Mallory added three goals in the victory. Mallory and Byles are establishing themselves as a dominant scoring tandem.

In their final game of the tournament, the ‘Cats dominated Gannon, 18-8. Eleven different Wildcats scored over the course of the game. Mallory scored three goals.

A 4-0 start will help the Wildcats push closer towards their goal of playing in the MAAC Championship.

Villanova faced West Virginia University and Iowa St. in a tri-meet at West Virginia on Saturday. The Wildcat women defeated Iowa, 180-119, but fell to WVU, 125.5-173.5. The men’s team also lost to WVU, 234-66.

The ‘Cats had seven firstplace finishes and a tie for first in the 200 free from junior Molly Benson. Benson also finished first in the women’s 500 free with a time of 4:57.18.

One win belonged to the men, with junior Charlie Hinckley touching first in the 500 free with a time of 4:31.12.

“The times that we posted this past weekend were probably some of the best we’ve seen in terms of in-season competition in a really long time,” head coach Rick Simpson said. “We actually had some athletes post personal bests, which is great…I don’t think there were really any performances we were really unhappy with.”

The first win of the day came from distance/freestyler freshman Marlene Blanke with a 17:02.61 in the 1650 free. The women’s team also swept backstroke events. Junior Audrey Pastorek finished first in both the 100 and 200 back and sophomore Arabella Lee finished second in the 100 back.

Friday, January 26 Women’s Track @ Penn St. National Open No Team Scoring Men’s Track @ Penn St. National Open No Team Scoring Men’s Tennis vs. Drexel 1–6 L Saturday, January 27 Women’s Track @ Penn St. National Open No Team Scoring Men’s Track @ Penn St. National Open No Team Scoring Water Polo vs. Mercyhurst 18–8 W Water Polo vs. Iona 10–8 W Women’s Swim @ West Virginia 125.5–173.5 L Women’s Swim vs. Iowa St. 180–119 W Men’s Swim @ West Virginia 66–234 L Women’s Tennis @ Delaware 1–6 L Men’s Basketball @ Butler 81–88 2OT L Sunday, January 28 Women’s Tennis @ Navy 2–5 L Water Polo vs. Mount St. Mary’s 12–11 W Water Polo vs. Gannon 18–8 W Women’s Basketball @ DePaul 95–64 W Monday, January 29 Tuesday, January 30 Men’s Basketball vs. Marquette Post-Production

room.”

Women’s swim had seven first-place finishes and one tie for first in Saturday’s tri-meet at West Virginia.

Courtesy of Villanova Athletics

In the men’s heat, Hinckley took third, only 0.45 seconds behind WVU’s second place swimmer. Junior freestyle/butterfly swimmer Lainey Quinones was 0.23 seconds behind WVU’s first place win in the women’s 100 free, finishing with a time of 50.83.

Another close race was the women’s 100 yard breaststroke.

Graduate student Maggie Kleinsmith finished third, 0.01 seconds out of second. In the final women’s event of the day, the women narrowly avoided third place with a net time of 3:36.63, only 0.26 seconds ahead of Iowa State’s third place team and 1.54 seconds behind West Virginia’s winning group.

The men’s 200 yard butterfly was a challenge for the ‘Cats,

who finished with first through third places, all within 0.86 seconds of each other. First and second place went to the Mountaineers, but senior fly/IM swimmer Nolan Danus scored big for the ‘Cats, coming in third place.

The men also took third through fifth place in the 100 yard freestyle, and where junior free/ backswimmer Patrick Hemingway was only 0.9 seconds from securing a second place finish.

After about an hour of not super competitive events, you see the athletes lose their edge a little bit,” Simpson said. “This weekend, what I think helped was that we saw, especially on the women’s side, that every event was almost a ‘too close to call’ finish, which I think helps the energy in the

The ‘Cats will travel to Penn State on Friday, Feb. 2. They will be back at home on Feb. 3 to celebrate the team’s seniors at Sprintfest 2024. These will be Villanova’s last regular season events before the Big East and NCAA Championships begin in the coming weeks.

“We have the taper, which is when we start to back off of the workload and let people recover so people start getting a little less tired, a little more energized, certainly more focused,” Simpson said. “We don’t really have a challenge, keeping them motivated between this weekend and the college championship, which is a good technique for our sport.”

Following Sprintfest and the well-loved All-Sport relay competition taking place after the senior celebration, the team shifts its focus to the postseason.

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