Observer the
February 16, 2022
The Student Voice of Fordham Lincoln Center
VOLUME XLII, ISSUE 2
PHOTO OF TETLOW COURTESY OF FORDHAM NEWS PHOTO OF MCSHANE COURTESY OF BRUCE GILBERT VIA FORDHAM NEWS PHOTOS OF MCCLOSKEY THROUGH O’HARE COURTESY OF FORDHAM UNIVERSITY
Featured here are 29 presidents of Fordham University and President-elect Tetlow, with two presidents serving twice and second president John B. Harley not pictured.
By ALLIE STOFER News Editor
After 32 Male Presidents, Tetlow Makes History
After months of searching for the successor to the Rev. Joseph M. McShane, S.J., current president of Fordham University, the search committee and board of trustees at Fordham unanimously elected Tania Tetlow, J.D., as the 33rd president of Fordham on Feb. 10. Tetlow will be the first woman and first non-Jesuit president in Fordham’s history.
In a press conference welcoming Tetlow, Robert D. Daleo, chair of Fordham University’s Board of Trustees and Gabelli School of Business ’72, said that the search committee conducted a nationwide search for a new president once McShane announced his retirement. The search began with 150 candidates, who were then narrowed down to four to be considered by the board. According to the announcement, the board of trustees, along with the search commit-
New York Fashion Week 2022 By ERIKA TULFO Features Editor
If both city locals and non-natives were to agree on one thing, it would be that New York and fashion are inextricably linked. It’s not a particularly difficult observation to make — not if the museums, magazine headquarters and ateliers of all sizes that dot its map are any indication of this connection. Stores stretch on for blocks, their mannequins beckoning passers-by inside with the promise of stepping out a better-dressed version of themselves, if only at the expense of a lighter wallet. Even the biting cold does little to stop citizens from braving snow-covered streets looking like they’ve just emerged from department store clothing catalogs. NEWS PAGE 2
KN95 Mask Access
Students criticize university’s lack of advertising for mask distribution
Culture is happening wherever you look. And from Feb. 11 to Feb. 16, New York City’s status as the “Top Global Fashion Capital of the Decade” is only further cemented as New York Fashion Week commences in full swing. For a week, every road is a runway and every corner a catwalk; influencers flock the streets sporting brandname bags; and celebrity sightings span Manhattan neighborhoods, from SoHo to the Upper West Side. The looks birthed during the shows dictate the trends of the year to come — featured in the glossy pages of magazines and the blinding lights of billboards before they trickle down into thrift stores and sale aisles.
tee, were impressed by Tetlow’s deeply rooted Ignatian spirituality, and they believe she will be a strong proponent of Fordham’s Jesuit, Catholic mission and identity. Daleo said that Tetlow “has a deep understanding of and comprehensive vision for undergraduate liberal arts and sciences, the Gabelli School of Business, Fordham Law, and all of the graduate and professional schools of the University.”
Body Dysmorphia
Male body standards can lead to insecurity and illness
• President-elect Tetlow was born in New York, and both her parents are Fordham alumni. • She became the fourth woman president to lead one of the 27 Jesuit colleges and universities when she began at Loyola University New Orleans. • Tetlow will serve as Fordham’s 33rd president effective July 1, 2022.
Office of Multicultural Affairs Hosts Events for Black History Month Black History Month Events
By OLIVIA LEDUC Asst. Features Editor
Throughout the first half of February, the university has been hosting a series of events and programs across both campuses to celebrate Black History Month. The programs have included guest speakers, lecturers, movie nights and events that explore different genres of music. Fordham’s radio station WFUV is sponsoring these events as indicated by Fordham News on its events calendar. Fordham News added that their calendar is a working list and it will be updated as new events are planned. Fordham’s Office of Multicultural Affairs (OMA) is honoring Black History Month and the committee is hosting several celebratory events, with the aim of appreciating Black voices in the past, present and future.
see FASHION WEEK page 13
SPORTS & HEALTH PAGE 6
see PRESIDENT page 2
Get to Know Our New President
see BHM page 3
CENTERFOLD PAGE 8
Valentine’s Day Cards
Wednesday, February 16, 2022 Racial Solidarity Network, 1:15 – 4:15 p.m., Lincoln Center
Friday, February 18, 2022 Black History Month Trivia, 3 – 5 p.m., Lincoln Center, McNally
Tuesday, February 22, 2022 Racial Solidarity Network, 12:30 – 3:15 p.m., Zoom
Wednesday, February 23, 2022 Racial Solidarity Network, 1:15 – 4:15 p.m., Lincoln Center
Thursday, February 24, 2022 Love Your Hair Panel, 11 a.m., Zoom Love Your Hair Expo, 12 – 2 p.m., Lincoln Center Indoor Plaza
Monday, February 28, 2022 Diaspora Event, Rose Hill
OPINIONS PAGE 12
Ask Em
Is it okay to talk to multiple people at the same time?
ARTS & CULTURE PAGE 15
Lunar New Year
AAPI celebrates with weeklong festivities
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Fordham Announces McShane’s Successor
Tetlow, J.D., will become the university’s 33rd president and serve as the first laywoman effective July 1, 2022 PRESIDENT from page 1
Tetlow graduated cum laude from Tulane University in 1992, where she received her Bachelor of Arts in American studies. At the same time, she graduated with honors, including being named a Harry S. Truman scholar. In 1995, she received her Juris Doctor degree from Harvard
Law School, where she graduated magna cum laude. Tetlow has served as president of Loyola University New Orleans since August 2018, where she was also the first lay president. Prior to becoming president of Loyola, she held the positions of senior vice president and chief of staff at Tulane Uni-
versity from 2015 to 2018. Tetlow has also held the positions of associate provost for international affairs at Tulane University, Felder-Fayard professor of law and director of Tulane’s domestic violence clinic. At Loyola, Tetlow launched several new academic programs that led to increased enrollment and student retention. When she arrived, Loyola was also experiencing a challenging time financially, which Tetlow was able to reverse by growing revenue and the endowment, improving its revenue, and returning the university to financial stability. “President Tetlow is beloved at Loyola for her compassionate and transparent leadership,” Daleo said in the announcement email.
“ Tania Tetlow has in
abundance the qualities of leadership one needs to run a major university, among them discernment, patience, decisiveness, self-awareness, and magnanimity. ” Rev. Joseph M. McShane, S.J., president of Fordham University,
COURTESY OF FORDHAM NEWS
Tetlow and McShane strolling the Lincoln Center Campus while meeting students and getting to know the university.
While she is the first female and first non-Jesuit president, students do not know exactly what that will mean for changes at Fordham. “Honestly, I have no idea what this will change,” Yev Gelman, Fordham College at Lincoln Center (FCLC) ’24, said. “I feel like I don’t understand the weight the president’s role has in my daily life. It’s cool we
have a woman and a non-Jesuit as the president, but I have no idea what it will change in my daily life.” McShane stated in the press conference that this is a historic moment for Fordham as “for the last 175 years, the president has always been a cleric, always worn a collar, always been a man.” While working at Tulane University, Tetlow worked on improving admissions, rankings, diversity, research strength and fundraising. She also led Tulane’s efforts to make progress on race and equity, as well as addressing sexual assault on campus. “Tania Tetlow has in abundance the qualities of leadership one needs to run a major university, among them discernment, patience, decisiveness, self-awareness, and magnanimity,” McShane said in the announcement. Although Tetlow is not a Jesuit herself, she is a member of the Fordham community. Both of her parents graduated from Fordham University, with her late father, Louis Mulry Tetlow, receiving his Ph.D. from Fordham’s Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS) in 1974, only four years after earning his master’s at Fordham. Tetlow’s mother, Elisabeth M. Tetlow, also graduated from GSAS, receiving a master’s degrees in philosophy and theology in 1967 and 1970. Tetlow’s parents met and married at Fordham, and Tetlow was born in New York. Both Tetlow’s father and uncle were Jesuit priests. Her uncle, Joseph Tetlow, S.J., served as head of the Secretariat for Ignatian Spirituality in Rome for eight years, along with other positions, such as president of the Jesuit School of Theology. In a video message introduc-
ing Tetlow to the community, she said that her family gave her “a Jesuit education since birth.”
“ I’m glad the new
president is a woman and relieved that she has prior experience, because this school really needs it. ” Sakunthala Sankar, FCLC ’24
Tetlow is married to Gordon Stewart and has a 9-year-old daughter, Lucy, and a stepson, Noah. Sakunthala Sankar, FCLC ’24, is hopeful that a lay president with former administrative experience will benefit the university. “I’m glad the new president is a woman and relieved that she has prior experience, because this school really needs it,” she said. “I’m hoping that with a non-Jesuit with prior experience, she can actually fix a lot of the bureaucratic problems at Fordham.” Daleo ended the announcement by asking the Fordham community to give Tetlow a warm welcome, as she represents positive changes at Fordham. “This is a historic and exciting moment for Fordham,” Daleo said. “As a university that seeks to transform its students’ lives, we are preparing to be transformed by bold new leadership—leadership that will build upon Father McShane’s legacy of academic achievement and institutional growth.” Insiya Gandhi and Chloe Zelch contributed additional reporting to this story.
Fordham Provides Free KN95 Masks
The masks are available upon request from Public Safety, but students feel university could increase accessibility By ALEXA VILLATORO Contributing Writer
Fordham’s Public Safety offices are offering KN95 masks upon request to students, faculty and staff seeking a higher level of protection from COVID-19. The new policy in accordance with additional recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to use surgical KN95 and N95 masks instead of cloth ones.
“ It’s helpful that they
are saying we can provide you with them, but no one is actually doing anything about the kids not wearing masks. ”
Paulina Paszkowski, FCRH ’22
According to John Carroll, associate vice president for administration and former director of Public Safety, Fordham remains consistent with CDC, NYC Department of Health and the university’s contracted epidemiologist’s guidelines, and continues to provide the recommended mask type for free. Carroll says students, faculty and staff can request as many masks as they need.
The availability of the KN95 masks was first announced to students in a return to campus protocol email sent on Jan. 3 by Marco Valera, Fordham’s vice president for administration and COVID-19 coordinator. Further information can be found on Fordham’s COVID-19 informational page. “Initially, we provided 5 cloth masks to everyone that could be laundered; but, now the recommendation is only to use the cloth masks over the KN95, N95 and KF94,” Carroll said. “Disposable masks are now recommended over the non-disposable cloth masks originally issued last year.” Edward Garcia, Fordham College at Lincoln Center ’24, believes that Fordham could have done a better job communicating with students upon their return to campus this semester. He points to the mask policy, crowded elevators and classrooms, and the required entry test that he believes was not enforced enough. “I would say it’s their job to have these resources more accessible,” he said. Garcia suggested the university provide the masks in frequented places, such as the library, and advertise the free masks more visibly. Lucy Peterson, Fordham College at Rose Hill (FCRH) ’22, echoed Garcia’s concerns, saying that she “had some idea they would be passing them out.” The KN95 masks are available at Public Safety offices across the Rose Hill, Lincoln Center and
ALICE MORENO/THE OBSERVER
KN95 masks offer greater protection against COVID-19 and are available at Public Safety offices.
Westchester campuses. Masks have also been distributed to the dean’s offices across the university and to security guards. Since Valera’s Jan. 3 email, the policy has not been widely advertised by the university. Paulina Paszkowski, FCRH ’22, has been concerned about the spread of COVID-19 and the use of masks as a commuting stu-
dent. She bought her own medical-grade masks before returning to campus but still worries about contracting the virus. “It’s helpful that they are saying we can provide you with them, but no one is actually doing anything about the kids not wearing masks,” Paszkowski said. Fordham has been requiring all students and faculty to wear
masks inside of the classroom at all times. On Feb. 2, the university announced that students would be allowed to drink beverages in class. “I’m not certain if all our students are taking advantage (of the free masks),” Carroll said. “But I do know that we have ample supplies for any student, faculty or staff that desires them.”
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February 16, 2022
Professors Pivot to Online Instruction
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Faculty members cite the omicron variant and wanting to quarantine as reasons for holding classes virtually By MARIN HOWELL Staff Writer
At the start of the spring semester, the university affirmed all courses at Fordham would continue to take place in person, despite the rise in cases with the omicron variant. However, some Fordham professors have deviated from those guidelines out of concern for their own health and the safety of their students. Current university guidelines specify that professors are only allowed to teach virtually under certain circumstances, such as testing positive for COVID-19 or being prompted by VitalCheck to quarantine. The Undergraduate Faculty Handbook details additional reasons for professors to hold classes online, such as needing to stay home with a child who is in quarantine.
“ The problem is that
there is not an understanding of individual circumstances or an expression of trust in faculty to negotiate these issues with students. ” anonymous professor
Outside of these guidelines, professors are expected to hold all classes in person, with the exception of some extenuating circumstances allowing professors the ability to teach remotely on a case-by-case basis. Robert Moniot, associate dean of Fordham College at Lincoln Center (FCLC), said in one case a pro-
ROBINSON GERMAIN/THE OBSERVER
Although the university maintained that classes would all be in-person, some professors have moved instruction online.
fessor was stuck in a foreign country for reasons unrelated to COVID-19 and was granted the ability to teach remotely for up to two weeks. Moniot added that uneasiness about teaching in person does not qualify as a circumstance for a professor to conduct classes online. “I received a couple of emails from faculty who clearly felt uneasy about returning but did not meet the guidelines for going to virtual modality,” he said. “They did not request permission to do so. If they had, I would not have granted permission.” Despite these specifications, a number of Fordham faculty members have taken it upon themselves to hold class online when they felt it was safest to do so. A professor in the com-
munications and media studies department, who is choosing to remain anonymous due to fear of losing their position, said they held the first meetings of their classes online because of concerns about the omicron variant. “The administration has pushed for in-person classes always, but there are times when I think Zoom is the better option,” the professor said. “The other issue is that we are just beginning to understand Omicron. While our administration believes that the symptoms are mild, that’s not what I am hearing, even from younger people.” Although this professor began teaching their classes online this semester, they have since returned to in-person instruction due to a lower number of COVID-19 cases
at Fordham Lincoln Center. As of Feb. 15, there are 14 cases at the Lincoln Center campus. Another professor in the communications and media studies department, who is also choosing to remain anonymous for fear of losing their position, decided to teach one of their classes online during the first week of the semester in order to isolate after traveling. “I actually had to fly that weekend for a family emergency,” the other professor said. “I made the decision to isolate on my return for a few days to be sure I did not bring COVID-19 back into my home.” The professor held one class online during this self-imposed isolation period. They said that they believe current university guidelines
limit professors in their ability to choose their quarantine protocols in situations such as this. “I do not believe the policy outlined by the administration allows flexibility for professors to make decisions to pivot to online instruction based on more personalized risk exposure or other safety reasons,” they said. “The problem is that there is not an understanding of individual circumstances or an expression of trust in faculty to negotiate these issues with students.” Other professors at FCLC have sought resources to implement a hybrid or Zoom format for their courses. Fleur Eshghi, associate vice president for Instructional Technology Academic Computing at Fordham, said her department has responded to requests from professors looking to utilize classroom technology that allows for hybrid modality. “Faculty are in constant contact with us regarding the use of the technology in the classrooms and online, trouble shootings, and other technology requests, etc. We respond to them via many venues, such as email, phones, or requests via the Helpdesk,” Eshghi said. While professors are still not encouraged to teach virtually outside of the current guidelines, Laura Auricchio, dean of FCLC, said she sees remote instruction as an ongoing opportunity for professors to hold classes that would have otherwise been canceled. “I could imagine that there might be other circumstances in which a faculty member might move a class meeting online if the only other alternative were to cancel the meeting,” she said. “In the past, such a person might have had to cancel the class; now that we have online options, the class meeting could be rescued by offering it online.”
Fordham Holds Variety of Black History Events
OMA’s Black History Month Committee hosts a movie night, trivia night and more to honor Black History Month BHM from page 1
“Our office strives to host events that highlight specific identities to both honor the people in our community that identify with that specific experience and to encourage those who may not identify to appreciate and learn about something new,” Lilibeth Ramos Flores, the graduate intern for OMA and moderator of the Black History Month Committee, said. Honoring Black History Month at Fordham holds great significance toward educating a predominately white institution on Black history and Black excellence, according to Katelyn Figueroa, Fordham College at Lincoln Center ’24 and the committee’s cultural program coordinator. “If the majority understands and accepts us (the minority) as a Fordham community, we can grow stronger and exist collaboratively in an environment where everyone feels accepted,” she said. OMA has worked closely with its Black History Month Committee to plan events for the duration of the entire month. The celebration commenced on Feb. 2 with a virtual event featuring keynote speaker Moses Harper, who held a conversation about Black History Month. According to Harper’s website, she “is a visionary of artistic expression in support of social empowerment and healing.” On Feb. 15, the committee hosted a movie night in the Lincoln Center student lounge with the
MADDIE SANDHOLM/THE OBSERVER
Members of the Black History Month Committee have been working to plan events throughout February to celebrate Blackness and honor Black voices.
streaming of “Black Panther” to honor Black representation in film. Later in the month, on Feb. 18, the committee will be hosting a Black History Month trivia night in McNally Amphitheatre at Fordham Lincoln Center, an opportunity for students to test their knowledge, educate themselves about Black history and to win prizes.
“ We want to feel as if we are a part of the entire Fordham community. ”
Katelyn Figueroa cultural program coordinator for OMA
The committee will conclude Black History Month with a virtual Zoom showing of the “Love Your Hair” Panel on Thursday, Feb. 24, where students and faculty can share their own stories about their own hair and discuss how important their hair is to their identity. The event will be available for students at both the Lincoln Center
and Rose Hill campuses. Following this event will be the “Love Your Hair” Expo from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m., located in the Indoor Plaza at the Lincoln Center campus. At this event, the committee will be tabling hair care products from Black-owned businesses. OMA encourages students of all backgrounds to celebrate and self-educate on Black experience and culture at the events, according to Ramos Flores. “If we can get students to begin to think about different identities and how there is so much history behind those identities, it is a step in the direction of research, knowledge and hopefully appreciation for others,” Ramos Flores said. The events also offer a time for Black students to share their experiences with their peers, according to Figueroa. “We want to feel as if we are a part of the entire Fordham community,” she said. “If those around us are able to identify and celebrate how special and important it is to be a person of color, it will help make our community, as a whole, stronger.” The OMA committee hopes to gain high exposure and attendance at the events to ultimately “celebrate Blackness” both during and after the month. “It is imperative to remember that Black History does not begin and end with the month of February. It exists every day and should be recognized as such,” Ramos Flores said.
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Mixer Fosters Inclusivity for BIPOC Students
FLC clubs BSA, MSA, Prism and SOL came together to provide BIPOC students with a memorable night By QUINCY REYES Contributing Writer
In celebration of Black History Month (BHM), students gathered for the Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) mixer on Friday, Feb.11 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. in G76. The room was lit up with
black, green and red lights. Students enjoyed food and danced to music while coloring books and trivia cards for BHM-adorned tables. To cap off the night, a trivia competition and raffle were held. The mixer, organized by the Black Student Alliance (BSA), Muslim Students Association
(MSA), Prism and Student Organization of Latinx (SOL) aimed to give students the chance to commemorate BHM in a safe, inclusive environment. Jaron Givens, Fordham College at Lincoln Center (FCLC) ’25, said that the night was also about celebrating Black excellence.
“I wanted to come and collaborate with my peers to create a great night. BSA and everyone who planned and organized this event did an amazing job. Everyone was dancing, having fun. It is just to celebrate who we are as Black, African Americans,” Givens said. For the leaders of these student organizations, there was a lot at stake. BSA President Chanelle Dortch, FCLC ’23, said that the event is important because it brings “some sort of solidarity amongst Fordham students.”
“ Having things like this is so important to me because I finally get to see people like me and come together.”
Selina Rodriguez SOL public relations representative
PHOTOS BY ALYSSA DAUGHDRILL/THE OBSERVER
Students who attended the mixer had a fun night of dancing and enjoying food. The event aimed at creating a safe space for students to celebrate their identities.
Dortch also stated that the event is important this year, as it is the first time since 2020 that BHM has been celebrated in person due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “We just came back from a really tough year, so for this to be the first Black History Month in a little bit that is in-person, together and loud, that is really special, especially when there are so many students that missed out on that,” she said. Club leaders also wanted to create a safe space for students to express themselves and celebrate their heritage and identity. “Especially being in a PWI (predominantly white institution), not many of us in the minority groups (have) much of a space here or feel comfortable. This is just one event where we can come together, have fun, eat food and dance,” Anna-
bel Filpo, FCLC ’23 and SOL event planner, said. SOL Public Relations Representative Selina Rodriguez, transfer student and FCLC ’22, said that the event meant a lot to her, as at her previous school there was no representation for students of color. “Having things like this is so important to me because I finally get to see people like me and come together,” Rodriguez said. While the event primarily celebrated BHM, the club leaders sought to integrate and celebrate other minority cultures. “There’s Blackness in a lot of communities, and it’s not just America. We Latinos have a lot of Afro-Latinos, but that’s not always something that is considered part of ‘Latino’ or that is talked about that way, so it’s also important to acknowledge the communities within our communities and all that interconnectedness everywhere,” SOL President Laura Vasquez, FCLC ’22, said. Club leaders were able to move forward with the mixer even though there were some difficulties with planning because of the appearance of the omicron variant and new restrictions from Fordham. “It was almost emotional in a sense because we worked so hard to put on this event and there were a lot of ups and downs for sure, especially when COVID picked up again,” Kiya Brown, FCLC ’23 and BSA director of public relations, said. “So we were like, ‘OK, how are we going to do this in a way that can still be fun for everyone?’” Nevertheless, Prism President Adah Unachukwu, FCLC ’23, said the event was a reminder of the strength and importance of the BIPOC community. “I think especially because of the pandemic everything felt really isolated. Having this event is like, ‘Oh, we are still here. We are all still here,’” they said.
Cybersecurity Center Secures $4.1 Million Grant
The award provides scholarships for tuition and living expenses to students pursuing a degree in cybersecurity By EESHITA WADE Contributing Writer
Fordham University’s Center for Cybersecurity received a $4.1 million grant from the National Science Foundation to provide scholarships for all undergraduate and graduate students who wish to pursue a master’s degree in cybersecurity. Through this grant, the university will cover all tuition, living and insurance expenses for the selected students and guarantees that they will receive government jobs in cybersecurity after graduation. In December 2016, Fordham’s Center of Cybersecurity was founded with the goal of advancing academic and outreach programs and providing scholarships for students studying cybersecurity. It has been recognized by the National Security Agency and Homeland Security Designate as a National Center of Academic Excellence. The grant is not a research grant, rather its primary objective is to attract students to the program. As the data science and cybersecurity masters degrees at Fordham are relatively new, these funded programs will allow Fordham to bring more students into the cybersecurity program and attract qualified students. According to Thaier Haya-
jneh, professor of computer and information science and founder of Fordham’s Center for Cybersecurity, the center is currently in the process of establishing the application for students to apply to receive the scholarship. This application will be open to all Fordham students who wish to pursue a Master of Science degree in cybersecurity.
“ The distinctive aspect of
this grant from the others is to combine some data science programs since cybersecurity requires processing a lot of data. ” Gary Weiss co-director of the grant
Gary Weiss, associate professor of computer and information sciences and co-director of the grant, said the scholarship will allow students to earn a funded master’s degree in cybersecurity. The program can be completed over a span of three semesters, which students have 36 months to complete. This will prepare students for a computer science
Ph.D. program, starting at Fordham next fall. In addition to getting a cybersecurity degree, students will be able to enroll in data science courses. “The distinctive aspect of this grant from the others is to combine some data science programs since cybersecurity requires processing a lot of data, and (Fordham has) a masters in data science so we will try and leverage that background,” Weiss said. The requirements for a student to be eligible for the scholarship are that they must be a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident, have a minimum 3.0 GPA in their undergraduate years and show a genuine interest in pursuing a master’s degree in cybersecurity. Students must also make a commitment to work with the federal government after graduation. Hayajneh hopes to expand the grant’s impact by creating different tracks in the security program in collaboration with other schools. Tracks would focus on the business and management of cybersecurity, intelligence and forensics of cybersecurity, policy, and law. “The great thing about this scholarship is that it opens the door for students to get that difficult first job in cybersecurity,” Hayajneh said. “Working in a government job would open a number of opportunities for students.”
ROBINSON GERMAIN/THE OBSERVER
The Center for Cybersecurity intends for the grant to attract new students to the program.
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February 16, 2022
Food Restrictions Lifted for Events
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Clubs leaders hope attendance at events will increase following the university’s lifting of food ban By OLIVIA LEDUC Asst. Features Editor
Fordham’s policy prohibiting food and beverage at on-campus events posed the possibility of removing incentives for students to attend club events. Although the restriction was lifted on Feb. 2, the Office for Student Involvement (OSI) was preparing to attract the same amount of students, despite the previous ongoing policy.
“ Many students choose
to attend club events in order to meet other students, because they connect with the mission of the club or because of an opportunity or activity at the event. ”
Christina Frankovic associate director for OSI
OSI partnered with several clubs at the beginning of the semester to navigate the food and beverage restriction to create “successful events” with a focus on garnering high attendance rates, said Christina Frankovic, associate director for Student Involvement. “Since it is at the start of the semester, as is usually the case, many clubs are still working on planning and announcing their events, but we are excited to help support them in the planning process,” Frankovic stated. According to Frankovic, attendance at on-campus club events has varied in the past, with the incorporation of food
and beverages often attracting large scores of students, but other factors additionally motivate students to attend events. “Many students choose to attend club events in order to meet other students, because they connect with the mission of the club or because of an opportunity or activity at the event,” she said. Spring semester’s club day, which did not provide food or beverage, drew 341 attendees. This was the highest attendance rate recorded at the event in the last few years even though food and beverage were previously served, Frankovic noted. Based on this turnout, she was optimistic that attendance would not be impacted by the policy restriction. Frankovic also believed a sense of community would not be hindered by the food and beverage restriction, as club leaders were diligently seeking creative solutions to attract students, including raffle prizes for attendees and other “engaging activities.” As clubs continue to plan for future events, some requested a reallocation of funds, originally budgeted for food in the coming weeks, according to Cort McElroy, Fordham College at Lincoln Center (FCLC) ’24, chair of the Student Activities Budget Committee (SABC) and United Student Government treasurer. McElroy reported that some clubs were requesting additional funding to “expand upon resources” for events without food or beverage, with most clubs submitting food and drink requests for future events in the hopes that the policy would be lifted by then. When the restriction remained in effect, McElroy said, “SABC will help clubs pivot to the temporary food policy in any
ALLIE STOFER/THE OBSERVER
At Stove's first show of the semester, pizza and beverages were served. The event also had a large turnout.
way they can” and provide guidance in reallocation transitions.
“ I am very hopeful for
the spring semester, as I think there are a lot of exciting activities and opportunities for students to engage with.”
Christina Frankovic associate director for OSI
Frankovic continues to anticipate that future events will
succeed in attracting students to attend, encouraged by meaningful events created by various club leaders. “I am very hopeful for the spring semester, as I think there are a lot of exciting activities and opportunities for students to engage with,” Frankovic said. Zuzanna Smurzynska, FCLC ’22 and president of the Campus Activities Board (CAB) at Lincoln Center, echoed Frankovic’s comments of optimism that a solid turnout of attendees was forecasted despite the preexisting policy. CAB now has plans in progress of on-and off-campus events inducing a standard attendance rate, with hopes that food will
be incorporated at all of the events following the revokement of the restriction. “We are hoping for the rest of the semester to resemble more of a ‘normal’ spring semester... we do think that (food) might bolster our event attendance a bit,” Smurzynska said. The unpredictabilit y of the omicron variant has caused restrictions to change at Fordham and prompted a “go with the f low” mindset for planning events, according to Smurzy nska. She said that support from fellow club members and their club adviser has made this feasible for the semester.
Contract Tracing Process Remains Unchanged
Despite claims of crowded classrooms and the omicron variant, no increase in contact tracing has been seen By OLIVIA REYES Staff Writer
In order to allow for in-person classes, the Fordham administration employed a system of contact tracing for when an individual in a class tests positive. This system has been in effect since the fall of 2021. As students have returned to classes in the spring semester, many have reported an increase in receipts of contract-tracing notifications. When an individual tests positive for COVID-19, there is a 20-step follow-up process to determine who they came into contact with, according to Associate Vice President for Public Safety John Carroll. This includes an interview with the COVID-positive individual and the process begins as soon as the contact tracers are informed of someone testing positive for COVID-19. Those in close proximity with the infected individual may receive a notification alerting them to their close contact status, which is defined as being in contact “2 days from a person reporting symptoms or the day of their positive test, as recommended by the John Hopkins Contact training,” Robert Fitzer, director of Public Safety, said. The individual would also have had to be within six feet of the infected person for at least 15 minutes. In accordance with guidelines issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Johns Hopkins Medicine states that con-
tact tracing breaks the chain of transmission in disease outbreaks through a three-step process. These steps include encouraging the infected individual to isolate themselves, confidentially determining who the infected person has been in contact with and notifying those that have been near a COVID-positive individual to monitor their health for any symptoms.
“ We have not experienced a relationship between class attendance and COVID spread.”
John Carroll, associate vice president for Public Safety
Marie Atendido, Fordham College at Lincoln Center ’24, said within the first week of the second semester, she had already been identified as a close contact and expressed concern about overcrowded classrooms. “It was a bio class, and to be honest, there aren’t many open seats in that class–meaning we are pretty close together–which could pose a problem if/when someone tested positive and it spread,” she said. Fitzer noted that once the close contacts of the infected individual have been identified, they are entered into a database. If the individual is fully vaccinated and received their booster
HALEY KARINJA/THE OBSERVER
Public Safety identified 589 students who came in close contact with someone who was infected in the fall semester. There has not been much of a change in numbers this semester.
vaccination, it is recommended that they receive a PCR test five days after exposure. Unvaccinated individuals are told to not attend classes in person, quarantine and call the Public Safety contact tracers immediately. Despite the omicron variant of COVID-19 proving to be a more contagious strain of the initial virus, Carroll said the university has not altered its approach to
contact tracing since the fall semester. He said that in comparison to the fall semester, “There has been no appreciable change in numbers being notified.” During the fall semester, Public Safety identified 589 students in close contact with an infected individual, according to Fitzer. Out of the 589 cases, 366 came from Rose Hill and 223 from Lincoln Center. As of Feb. 15,
there have been 330 close contacts during the spring semester, with 285 from Rose Hill and 45 from Lincoln Center. “We have not experienced a relationship between class attendance and COVID spread,” Carroll said. “We have definitely seen a direct correlation with attendance at social events. Obviously there is a correlation between roommates both on and off campus.”
Sports & Health Editors Patrick Moquin Chris Murray sportsandhealth@fordhamobserver.com
Sports & Health
February 16, 2022 THE OBSERVER
Body Dysmorphia Afflicts Young Men, Too
Men are unrecognized among those experiencing the mental illness body dysmorphic disorder By GABRIELLA BERMUDEZ and CHRIS MURRAY Asst. Sports & Health Editor and Sports & Health Editor
Content Warning: suicidal thoughts and body dysmorphia Feeling insecure about a certain aspect of your body is something that everyone can relate to. As you get ready in the morning, you may notice a pimple on your face and try to cover it up. Maybe after a meal, you feel bloated and try to conceal your belly with different poses. Throughout the day, though, you forget about your insecurity. You simply walk outside with your pimples and bloated stomach and carry on with your day. For some people, these self-conscious thoughts stay in the forefront of their minds all day — as if there’s a spotlight shining solely on their insecurity. The thoughts around their bodies are inconsolable and overwhelming. They feel as if they should be ashamed of their appearance. Sometimes these worries can be so all-consuming that they lead to suicidal thoughts. This is a mental illness called body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) and is most commonly seen among people with eating disorders or disordered eating habits. While BDD begins during adolescence, eating disorders can become more prevalent later in life. According to the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA), “Full-blown eating disorders typically begin between 18 and 21 years of age.” Some of these “imperfections” noticed by those with BDD feel real to them, regardless of whether others notice. The idea of these perceived flaws prevents those with the disease from living a normal life. BDD is similar to obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), in which obsessive thoughts hin-
der an individual’s daily actions and lead them to seek isolation from social groups. Removal from social settings can sometimes lead to depression or decreased productivity. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, BDD is caused by biological factors, including a history of the disease in the family. Chemical imbalances and situational factors, like being bullied during adolescence, may also contribute to the development of BDD. While the causes of the disorder may be similar among individuals, each case is unique. This is because societal norms influence the perception of illnesses like BDD. Women are more well-known to have eating disorders. Factors such as social media, films and celebrity idolization often make women more susceptible to having self-image issues. Men face similar problems as well, but these issues are oftentimes suppressed and unnoticed, even by medical professionals. Mark Dunai, a fitness social media content creator, commented on the impact of social media on body image, specifically highlighting the toys that men are exposed to during adolescence. “There are a lot of male action figures who are just very muscular ... this is very unreasonable,” Dunai said. “It puts a little pressure on people thinking that this is the societal norm. Usually, you don’t see people walking around who look like Superman. I don’t think it’s terrible for people to look up to it — it’s just not realistic.” While the idea of admiring superheroes and desiring muscles may seem harmless, the consequences can be dire. Anorexia is the deadliest mental illness, and although men make up 25% of those suffering from the disease, they make up the majority of deaths. Physicians
COURTESY OF MARK DUNAI
Mark Dunai continues to works out to achieve fitness goals while staying mindful of his health.
fail to recognize the illness because “clinical assessment tools emphasize a desire to lose weight as opposed to building muscle.” This means that surveys and tests researchers use to identify eating disorders, such as the EDI3, use language that favors female responses. Men with eating disorders don’t have the same body image concerns as women do, and the tests are often better at measuring factors more applicable to women than to men. While women are typically encouraged by society to be thin, men are encouraged to be muscular. Athletes are especially susceptible to BDD. A study by Jennifer Carter, a psychologist at the Ohio State University Sports Medicine Center, found that about 1.1% of male athletes suffer from the illness, but research in the field is lacking. This is also tied to the prevalence of performance-enhancing drugs and substances, such as creatine. NEDA describes a subtype of BDD known as muscle dys-
morphia, which mostly affects male bodybuilders. According to NEDA, those with muscle dysmorphia “obsess about being adequately muscular. Compulsions include spending many hours in the gym, squandering excessive amounts of money on supplements, abnormal eating patterns, or use of steroids.” Men with muscle dysmorphia struggle to view themselves as physically adequate. They tend to view their muscles as being too small and have convinced themselves that they are weak and frail. Because they view themselves as weak, bodybuilders will continue to push their bodies to new extremes, which can cause physical harm. The difference between having normal health goals and having muscle dysmorphia is the obsessive thoughts and dangerous actions taken to achieve the “perfect body.” Dunai ensures that he keeps his body in check by listening to its needs. Specifically, he tries to
avoid excessive repetitions, or reps, at the gym. “I do two to three sets, but every set is very intense,” Dunai said. “Four sets of 12 is a very common rep range. I try not to do that because I think that is too much for me.” Dunai has his own method of keeping his body in check during phases when he plans on changing his fitness goals, like gaining muscle weight or losing fat. “I do take pictures of myself; in early December, I got a camera, and I would just take pictures of how I looked at my peak weight,” Dunai said. The constant physical abuse that men with BDD face is not only dangerous for their bodies but also their lives. Medical professionals often overlook men because the idea of being muscular and strong is idealized in society. BDD impacts people from all walks of life, but the research on how the illness impacts men, available treatments for them and public awareness is insufficient.
Exploring Off-Campus Fitness Centers
A guide to the various facilities and membership costs of fitness centers near Fordham campuses Off-Campus Options
ROBINSON GERMAIN/THE OBSERVER
Numerous fitness centers are located near the Lincoln Center campus. By GUS DUPREE Asst. Sports and Health Editor
Heading into the spring semester, Fordham’s fitness centers closed as a precaution in light of the omicron outbreak. While the university has since reopened the Ram Fit Center at Rose Hill on Jan. 28 — followed by a new fitness room located in the basement of the recently opened Campus
Center on Feb. 1 — the McMahon fitness center remains closed. When exactly Lincoln Center students will have access to the only fitness center on their campus remains unknown. But due to the lack of a Lincoln Center gym and the Rose Hill facilities having a tenuous schedule at the mercy of COVID-19 outbreaks, students are increasingly turning to off-campus alternatives.
Jack Harrigan, Fordham College at Rose Hill ’25, has struggled to find a gym that he and his friends could attend, explaining that “the guys who are really dedicated” purchased memberships at Planet Fitness or Blink. “My friend went one time (to Blink) and said that it was too busy with kids and locals,” Harringan said. His friend now goes to Planet Fitness. Both centers near Rose Hill offer yearlong memberships for $10 a month, with additional amenities at Planet Fitness like access to massage and tanning rooms in more expensive packages. Several fitness centers lie in close proximity to the Lincoln Center campus as well. The West Side YMCA, located on 63rd Street between Columbus Avenue and Central Park West, offers individual memberships for $108 per month. It is the only nearby fitness center with a swimming pool. This YMCA used to offer limited discounted memberships for Fordham students but ended the practice after the 2019-20 school year. For Lincoln Center students looking for a cheaper alternative, the Midtown West Planet Fitness at 56th Street offers
memberships for $10 a month. Memberships are only valid at individual Planet Fitness centers, meaning that a membership to the Midtown West facility does not grant access to the location on Fordham Road. A YMCA membership, on the other hand, is valid in any of its centers. The New York Sports Club Upper West Side facility on 73rd Street and Central Park West is farther from campus and more expensive than Planet Fitness, at $55 a month. Like Planet Fitness, a New York Sports Club membership is only valid at a single location. The Sports Club offers amenities like lockers, sauna rooms and access to group sessions and activities. The most expensive option near Lincoln Center is Crunch Fitness. Located on 54th Street between Broadway and Eighth Avenue, Crunch offers a monthly membership at $124 a month, although prospective members can sign up for a weeklong free trial. Healthy Gym Etiquette Whichever fitness center you ultimately choose to go to, be it on or off campus, it remains important to follow sanitation guidelines and social distancing
policies. Physical exertion increases one’s rate of respiration, and thus the amount of aerosols potentially containing COVID-19. The compact, social nature of gyms coupled with having to share equipment has made gyms prime places for outbreaks to occur. New York City guidelines require fitness centers to ensure social distancing and mask-wearing, as well as to have functional air conditioning. The newly reopened Ram Fit Center requires students to reserve a time in advance using a third-party mobile app. Students who make a reservation are also required to wear a facial covering and maintain six feet of distance from others. The locker rooms are also closed, so students should enter the fitness center with the clothes they plan to work out in. Adherence to guidelines and rules posted at gyms is not just something that should be done when required. Students participating in any indoor fitness setting should make a habit of constantly cleaning their hands and the equipment they use. Students interested in off-campus fitness should treat these facilities with the same courtesy expected of them when on campus.
www.fordhamobserver.com
THE OBSERVER
February 16, 2022
Sports & Health
7
Ambitious Marketing Maintains Relevance of Oldest Arena in NCAA
The Rose Hill Gymnasium is a standout in the A10 for its long legacy, preserved since its opening in 1925 By AURELIEN CLAVAUD Asst. Sports & Health Editor
The Rose Hill Gymnasium has stood for nearly 100 years. While the rest of the NCAA features massive, high-tech arenas with jumbotrons and nosebleeds, Fordham’s humble but historic facility is arguably the most unique outlier. Opened in 1925, the quaint, exposed-brick building seats 3,200 and sits between the McGinley Center and Jack Coffey Field. Gothic architecture disguises its industrial and utilitarian interior. A steel lattice supports the relatively low ceiling, sharing what little space there is with jerseys and banners. Blinding fluorescent lights hang high above the bleachers, while large windows allow a decent day’s sunlight to diffuse across the space. The hardwood has hosted leg-
endary games and players. Fordham hall-of-famers Johnny Bach, Fordham College (FC) ’47; Ed Conlin, Gabelli School of Business ’55; Kenneth Charles, FC ’73; and Anne Gregory-O’Connell, FC ’80, have all had their stints on the floor. In plain view hang championship banners, reminding any visitor of the historic caliber of Fordham basketball. Since the very beginning, the gymnasium has had episodes of peculiar juxtaposition. The 1925 opening contest was refereed by baseball great and Fordham alumnus Frankie Frisch, FC ’20. During World War II, the U.S. Army borrowed the floor space for a barracks. New York native and NBA icon Kareem Abdul-Jabbar played his final high school game here. The Rose Hill Gymnasium continues to host annual high school championship games today.
The gymnasium’s history goes far beyond just basketball. Due to its space and utility, it earned the nickname “the Prairie.” For decades, it was the largest interior space on the Rose Hill campus, until the opening of the adjacent Lombardi Center in 1976. It has hosted concerts, keynote addresses and even commencements. The Prairie has remained a staple of Fordham culture, even as new structures continue to rise around it. In the 1970s, the gym was nearly replaced with a more modern facility. Football legend and namesake of the Super Bowl trophy Vince Lombardi, FC ’37, hosted a fundraiser for a 10,000-seat facility that would have rivaled that of the University of St. Louis. He passed away before the fundraiser could be completed, and the hallowed arena has stood ever since.
COURTESY OF FORDHAM UNIVERSITY ARCHIVES
The gymnasium was originally the largest structure on campus. Today it hosts the basketball and volleyball programs.
Historical aura is not the only thing that keeps this building in operation. It is beloved by Fordham students for being an integral part of the Rose Hill experience. Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Ed Kull believes that part of the allure of the gym is its social potential. “I want it to be a real centralized social gathering place,” he said of his vision of the facility. “I want it to be part of (the students’) whole experience here at Fordham University.” For Kull, it’s about school pride, and all of Fordham is included in writing the history of the Prairie. In an effort to continue this mission for the gymnasium, in the fall of 2021, the university hosted rapper A$AP Ferg, who performed in front of thousands of Fordham students to inaugurate the basketball season. With the issue of engaging students comes an obvious question: What about Lincoln Center? Kull is dedicated to bringing in more school spirit from the Manhattan campus. On Dec. 12, 2021, the Rams played in a showcase game at the 20,000-seat Barclays Center, home of the Brooklyn Nets. “I think that’s the benefit of having that Madison Square Garden or Barclays (Center) game every year,” Kull said. Keeping the game in the city, according to him, allows more flexibility for those curious Lincoln Center sports fans. The director also mentioned other benefits of playing in notable New York City locations. “When there is that demand for the larger audience ... we always have the opportunity to (play in) a larger arena,” Kull said. But among the most notable efforts to preserve the Prairie and engage more students is a recent revamp of the hardwood. Kull claimed that the court, which had been in continuous use since its 1925 opening, was in dire need of replacement. It was fully removed along with a sublevel and replaced with a modern, shock-absorbing, moisture-proof wood surface. An industrious undertaking, the replacement was completed in 2019
and necessitated a rebuild of the foundation. This was a direct result of the building’s age and the methods used in its original construction. The original hardwood is now on sale as a collectible. Fordham University partnered with CollectibleXchange to provide unique memorabilia to anyone who wants a part of the gym. Pieces of the court are on display in glass cases, with some featuring photos of the gymnasium from past years. There is even a special edition collectible with images of the Fordham women’s basketball team’s Atlantic 10 (A10) Championship victory in 2019. For basketball fans, the Rose Hill Gymnasium is a historic icon, and according to coaches and the media, it is “one of the top 10 venues to watch a college basketball game.” But for recruits, the facility has proved unattractive. Other schools in the A10, like the University of St. Louis, attract recruits with their massive arenas and expansive training facilities, but Fordham has struggled to market its aging arena to prospective players. Instead, as Kull insisted, Fordham Athletics uses the university’s “top tier” academics to bring in new players. “A tremendous recruiting tool for Fordham Athletics is the strong education,” Kull said of the recruitment practices. “Fordham student-athletes actually have a higher graduation rate than the rest of the students at Fordham University.” In 2020, 11 Fordham Athletics programs recorded a 100% graduation rate. The overall graduation rate was 96%; the NCAA average is 85%. Fordham Athletics has made efforts to better market the Prairie to students and to the community, and its long history is a huge part of those efforts. The memorabilia on sale at CollectibleXchange is just one of the ways that the Rose Hill Gym is continuing to build its brand and retain its legacy as an icon of New York basketball.
Women’s B-Ball Struggles Against URI, 58-43
Fordham Rams crumbled in late stages as URI moves to first in conference standings, Fordham falls to fourth By PATRICK MOQUIN Sports & Health Editor
The University of Rhode Island (URI) Rams completely overwhelmed Fordham women’s basketball on Sunday in a decisive 58-43 defeat. Following Virginia Commonwealth University’s upset victory over the University of Dayton, URI is now the only undefeated team in the Atlantic 10 (A10) and sits atop the conference standings. In a highly anticipated matchup between the A10’s second- and third-ranked teams, Fordham didn’t quite stack up to Rhode Island’s 19-3 overall record and 12game winning streak. But with a 16-5 record and three-game winning streak of their own to defend, Fordham players entered the Ryan Center in Kingston, Rhode Island, with plenty to play for. Following an early URI layup, Anna DeWolfe, Fordham College at Rose Hill (FCRH) ’23, broke the ice for Fordham with a three. The game continued along these lines for some time. Rhode Island’s advantage on the floor was noticeable, but Fordham managed to equalize with effective shooting. Rhode Island only led 19-15 at the end of the first quarter and would have led by much more if not for two three-pointers from
DeWolfe and one from Kendell Heremaia, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences ’22. In most cases this season, the Rams from the Bronx have proved too physical for their opponents, but the shoe was on the other foot in this contest. Led by forward Emmanuelle Tahane, URI ’22, Rhode Island firmly controlled the paint throughout the game, keeping Fordham’s offense on the perimeter. DeWolfe and company have proven effective out there in the past, but the wheels inevitably fell off late in the second quarter. Down 29-26 with 1:18 remaining in the half, Asiah Dingle, FCRH ’22, brought the ball up the floor and made a costly turnover before fouling to stop the clock. Rhode Island guard Yanni Hendley, URI ’24, responded with a three-pointer and then stole the ball from Sarah Karpell, Gabelli School of Business at Rose Hill (GSBRH) ’23, on defense. URI’s final possession ended with a Fordham foul, leading to two more points and a 34-26 lead. Fordham’s offense stalled in the opening minutes of the third quarter and the team would never get within reach again, even when opportunities presented themselves. With 8:19 remaining in the third, Kaitlyn Downey, GSBRH ’22, earned a key defensive rebound but her
pass bounced off DeWolfe’s head, leading to a turnover and URI score. Fordham only scored two times in the five minutes that followed. If that miscue wasn’t telling enough, the final play of the third quarter emphatically proved that it simply wasn’t the team’s day. With the clock running down, Dingle calmly dribbled to the top of the key, preparing for one last shot before the end of the quarter. Down 44-35, a three-pointer could have put Fordham within six going into the fourth. Instead, the ball ended up in the hands of Maranda Nyborg, FCRH ’24, who forced an off-balance layup attempt and gave possession back to Rhode Island. With four seconds remaining, guard Chanell Williams, URI ’22, dribbled back up the court and hit a half-court shot at the buzzer. Fordham trailed by 12, 47-35, with one quarter remaining. For a team that typically finishes games strong, Fordham seemed hapless in the final 10 minutes. Down by as many as 19 points with 6:44 left, winning was virtually impossible, but the game could have been closer. Fordham only managed three field goals in the quarter, however, and two late free throws by DeWolfe did little to soften a 58-43 defeat.
COURTESY OF FORDHAM ATHLETICS
Anna DeWolfe, FCRH ’23, drives to the hoop. She shot 43% from the field.
After such a resounding loss to a top-tier opponent, Fordham’s postseason prospects are clearer and less hopeful. With the A10 Tournament less than a month away, the team still has work to do to have any chance of winning another championship.
Fordham’s schedule doesn’t get any easier from here, as the team will next play the University of Massachusetts and Dayton on Wednesday, Feb. 16, and Saturday, Feb. 19, respectively. Both teams are solid A10 contenders that the Rams may have to deal with again in March.
Valentine’s Day Letters
Love isn’t cut and dry, but these letters can be snipped and saved. Enjoy these love letters submitted by members of the Fordham community and created by The Observer’s multimedia team.
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This is just a lit tle appreciatio n letter for my roomies! Yo u guys are alw ays there for me when I need to rant o r go on a long tangent a bout things yo u don’t understand or care about. Yo u’re all great friends and I’m so glad we’ve gotten so close!<3 Isabella
Lots o f of wh love to The om ar e the Observer s and fr taff gre ie a cros nds anyon atest room , some e sword m in you could ask f ates or! I’ll r hono do Nand r :) hana Nair
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Opinions Editor Clara Gerlach Isabella Scipioni opinions@fordhamobserver.com
Opinions
February 16, 2022 THE OBSERVER
‘Is That Vegan?’ My Toxic Journey With Veganism Diets that are restrictive can foster an unhealthy relationship with food EMILY FITZGERALD Contributing Writer
Content warning: restrictive eating In eighth grade, I fell into a rabbit hole of YouTube videos that led me to veganism. When I found these videos, I was greeted with promises of good health and a diet that could save the world. At only 13 years old, I was hooked and immediately attempted to start my vegan journey. It only lasted around two days, but even so, I was convinced that my diet needed to be changed. My transition to veganism wasn’t linear. I started by cutting out red meat. Even though I was a young teen, I convinced myself that I needed to be concerned with the potential cardiovascular disease red meat could cause. I took my diet a step further and decided to go vegetarian. I had already cut down my meat intake, so the transition was easy. Finally, for my 2015 New Year’s resolution, I decided to get back to my initial goal of going vegan. This time, the transition was much easier. Unlike my last attempt, I was successful.
I was vegan for almost four years, and I can say I didn’t save the world, nor was I drastically healthier.
I went vegan for both environmental and health reasons, but the environmental reasons were the biggest for me. I found out during my YouTube video spiral that animal agriculture is awful for the planet. The information I learned felt monumental to me, and I believed it was my responsibility to change the world. How could I see these effects of eating animal products and do nothing about it?
I also convinced myself that if I was eating vegan, I would magically become healthier. I was vegan for almost four years, and I can say I didn’t save the world, nor was I drastically healthier.
No one warned me that by going vegan I ran the risk of feeling like my entire life revolved around food and what I could or could not eat. Some people see amazing benefits from going vegan. According to People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) UK, being vegan can boost your mood, reduce risk of disease, clear up your skin and help the planet. It is important to note that the main mission of PETA UK is to encourage people to adopt a plant-based diet and advocate for animal rights. I don’t want to discredit the benefits of veganism, but it isn’t widely addressed that this diet does not work for everyone. In my life, veganism became the cause of disordered eating patterns and unnecessary stress. The weight of feeling like you need to save the world and your own health by never eating animal products again is a lot. I didn’t give myself the grace to make mistakes. Any small slip-ups I made would make me feel like a terrible person, even though I saw others make mistakes and didn’t feel the same about them. When my doctor told me I had vitamin deficiencies, I refused to take the supplements my mom bought me. The vitamins contained gelatin, an animal product, and I didn’t have access to any without it. I didn’t care that my health was at risk; the idea of eating an animal product was way too much. Any time my family went out, I would have extreme anxiety about whether I would be able to find anything to eat. If I couldn’t find any options, I would just
eat french fries or not eat at all. Before eating anything, I had to ask the golden question, “Is this vegan?” In a way, being vegan is like volunteering to be a picky eater. Do you want this? No, I can’t have it. I wasn’t eating foods that I wanted to because of my rule that I had to be vegan. A diet that was supposed to be absolutely amazing was just making me miserable. No one warned me that by going vegan I ran the risk of feeling like my entire life revolved around food and what I could or could not eat. Eating casually was never an option for me. This isn’t inherently harmful; it just led me down a slippery slope, which is why I believe veganism isn’t for everyone. What I have learned now by speaking with professionals is that my eating habits were unhealthy. The amount of stress I was in over food was not normal. One thing I’d like to emphasize is that veganism was unhealthy for me because of my mindset about it. Now that I have stopped eating a vegan diet, it has greatly reduced my stress. Plus, my eating habits have gotten a lot healthier. It has been difficult to retrain my brain and tell myself foods that were once off limits are actually okay to eat. However, I have not gone back to eating meat: I am vegetarian. I’ve found being vegetarian is a great way for me to still help the environment and animals, but I feel less restricted in my options. I still try to incorporate vegan options, though, whenever I can. One small change I have made is getting plant-based milk in my lattes. I have never noticed a difference in taste, and I know I’m doing something beneficial. By being vegan for almost four years, I learned of many great recipes, got to connect with other vegans and tried amazing new foods. I just know being vegan a hundred percent of the time is not a good lifestyle for me. It is an amazing option for other people, though, and I’m not trying to dissuade anyone from trying it, just urging caution. Before anyone goes vegan, they should examine their relationship with food and determine if it is a good choice.
SURPRISING VEGAN FOODS
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February 16, 2022
Opinions
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Remove ‘I Can’t Believe’ From Sexual Assault Conversations #MeToo created a space to talk about the realities of being a woman in a world where sexual violence is rampant — now it’s time to reflect on those conversations ROSALINE STOYKOV Staff Writer
Content Warning: sexual assault “I can’t believe any man would do that.” “I can’t believe that you were treated that way.” “I can’t believe”: That phrase holds more power than some think. In the years after the #MeToo movement, women have begun to bravely step into the public eye and share their experiences with sexual harassment and assault more frequently. In an effort to reclaim their lives, narrative and power, women have risked their careers, safety and mental well-being to spread awareness about these daily tribulations and, in many cases, the subsequent severe and long-term trauma. I have begun to talk about my experiences with assault and harassment, particularly with my male friends. Almost every time, I am met with sympathy; but even more with shock. And, of course, the resulting response: “I can’t believe ...” While I am grateful that my male friends gave me the space and safety to recount these experiences, the shock I have been met with has always confused me. If sexual harassment is so common, why am I met with wide eyes and gasps? If experiences like this happen to women every day, why is it so unbelievable? This is not to say that women don’t react with the “I can’t be
lieve” mentality. Their responses, however, tend to be more varied. Rather than shock, I am often met with similar stories of sexual assault. So, once again, I raise the question: Why respond with “I can’t believe”? This phrase, though well-intentioned, is a low-grade form of gaslighting. The term “gaslighting,” too, has entered the conversation surrounding sexual and emotional abuse against women. I have even heard my male friends apply this phrase to their own experiences of manipulation and invalidation. I applaud them for it, but it is time that the phrase is applied and reflected upon on a different level, beginning with the vocabulary used surrounding these conversations.
Vocabulary shapes mindset. When the phrase “I can’t believe” is brought into a conversation surrounding sexual assault, it encourages a mindset of disbelief.
The term gaslighting first gained popularity after the premiere of the 1938 play “Gaslight,” which followed the life of a woman who slowly went insane at the hands of her manipulative husband. The term then regained popularity during
the 1970s and 1980s in academic journals, particularly those studying gender dynamics. Then, with the rise of the #MeToo movement, the phrase sprung to the forefront of conversation as women recounted situations in which their reports of sexual abuse were dismissed. The phrase became so popular that it was even named a runner-up for Oxford Dictionary’s 2018 word of the year. In short, gaslighting is not a new phenomenon. Abuse is nothing new. What is new is the growing and popularized vocabulary surrounding these conversations. The women who came forward prior to, during and after the #MeToo movement were gaslit regarding their experiences, despite successful efforts to shed light on perpetrators of sexual assault. Only about one in three female victims come forward to report cases of assault. The number of men who come forward is even lower: Only 13% of male victims of sexual assault file a report. This is a result of the trivialization of victims’ experiences and feelings, trapping them in their own personal hell of shame, anger and even internalized gaslighting. I have caught myself trivializing my own experiences, asking myself questions like “What if I wasn’t actually assaulted?” or “Am I overreacting?” and even, “Is my reaction normal?” Sexual violence should not be normal. Unfortunately, it has been normalized, and the practice is only beginning to be reversed. There is no “right” or “wrong” way to respond to and process these traumatic experiences because they should inherently be abnormal.
GRAPHIC ILLUSTRATION BY ASHLEY YIU/THE OBSERVER
The conversation around victimhood must be considered in relation to the term gaslighting. Women are constantly warned against developing a victim mentality, a warning that brings forth its own set of dangers. Though often unintentional, it opens the door for “victim blaming,” another phrase that has gained popularity since the rise of the #MeToo movement. This phenomenon is present in phrases such as, “You put yourself in that position” or “You have to be more careful,” which even I have been told. Why must I regulate my own behavior around men to avoid danger? Why can’t men just learn not to be dangerous? There is power in acknowledging victimhood. Being candid about the effects of trauma is the first step toward healing from it,
and there is a balance between experiencing the consequences of trauma and not letting those consequences define you. The development of better defining and encapsulating the daily experiences that women face is a huge step forward. The fact that this vocabulary is being popularized draws even more attention to these issues. The next step is to continue the development of this new set of vocabulary through sustained conversation, no matter how uncomfortable or emotional it may be. Vocabulary shapes mindset. When the phrase “I can’t believe” is brought into a conversation surrounding sexual assault, it encourages a mindset of disbelief. It’s time to strike that phrase from our collective vocabulary. Believe me. Believe her. Believe us.
A Letter to Those Who Don’t Write Them Grab a pen and paper, and send your loved ones a message about the soon-lost art of letter writing CLARA GERLACH Opinions Editor
My Dearest Reader, I hope you are doing well. I would love to say that we’re all acquainted with the feeling of getting a letter from an old friend, the feeling of checking your mailbox and getting a red envelope full of promise and wonder. An update about your friend’s life may be within, or a card celebrating Galentine’s Day. Unfortunately, it seems like the reality of what’s in our mailbox may be a lot different than love enveloped and sealed with a wax stamp. Bills, magazines and, on average, 454 pieces of marketing mail per year seem to fill up the bulk of one’s mail, leaving very little room for the potential wonderful letters that could fill up one’s heart. So with this in mind, I implore you in this letter to send more letters. First, even though interpersonal communication has become so instant, sometimes life is about the slower moments of thoughtfulness for one another. Writing a letter is more than just pen on paper; it can be the strokes spilling the most piping hot tea or declaring one’s love. Even if there is no occasion, there are few things sweeter than a card that says someone’s thinking of you. Sending things through the mail is my pride and joy. I have a
stamp sheet in my wallet most of the time, and I love sending the few and far between letters I owe to pen pals. There’s a feeling of happiness associated with sending the influx of holiday cards I get to seal with a wax stamp bearing my initials that I got in middle school.
For once, writer’s block isn’t a hindrance, but an opportunity for reflection. While some stationary may cost a lot, this doesn’t need to be an expensive affair. Nothing is more euphoric than taking a trip to Dollar Tree and picking out cards for everyone on your list. Bulk packs are also great, especially when you have a lot of people to write to! After you get yourself situated with a drink of your choice (rain dripping down one’s window or blankets are optional), many struggle from one all-too-common dilemma: not knowing what to write. Which leads into my second point: Long-form communication brings a sort of pause in time as one has more chances to deliberate what you want to get across. There’s not only thoughtfulness about the person to whom you’re writing, but also there is a meditative aspect of centering what one believes is worthy of writing. For once, writer’s block isn’t a
hindrance, but an opportunity for reflection. Then again, it’s not always that deep. Writing a letter can be as simple as telling people what’s happened in the last week or however much time it’s been since you’ve talked. You can concentrate on not only telling them what’s happening, but also include them in the conversation. This is as simple as adding an open-ended question at the end of a paragraph. You might think this is counterintuitive — as there’s no direct or immediate answer — but it’s what starts the back and forth of letter writing. It’s a lot like when you’re having two conversations with the same friend on different apps at the same time, except one here takes a lot longer. Third, if you have no friends who would appreciate a handwritten letter, don’t let that stop you from getting out the pen and paper. Though not nearly as popular as before, letters can be written for a good cause.
Pictures might be worth a thousand words, but words are worth a bit too. You can use your newfound letter-writing powers to write to a member of Congress, support a letter-writing campaign like the ones from Vote Forward or Sierra Club, or start your own campaign. Writing about organizations you
CLARA GERLACH/THE OBSERVER
Send a letter, spark a smile and save the USPS!
are passionate about can even be quite therapeutic, as the words can flow easily as you advocate for something you believe in — and you’re making a difference with a simple action. Fourth, and perhaps most importantly, writing letters supports the United States Postal Service, an institution that is currently running on fumes. Sending letters is not expensive, considering the immense work that it takes to get them to their final destination, but this could very well change if
we phase out the post office to the point of privatization. And so, as I close out this letter and wish you all the best in your incoming week, I encourage you to write your own letter or card and bestow it upon someone who you feel deserves it this Valentine’s week. After all, pictures might be worth a thousand words, but words are worth a bit too. Love, Clara
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February 16, 2022
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Ask Em: Three Guys and No Lies
It’s fine to talk to multiple people, as long as you’re not in a committed closed relationship EMILY ELLIS Head C Copy opy EEditor dittor di
Dear Em, Is it OK to talk to multiple people at the same time? I’m talking to three people, and they all seem like great guys, but I’m not in a relationship with any of them. How can I stop feeling so guilty? -Triple Timer Dear Triple Timer, Dating in NYC is already a hellscape — it’s hard to find one person you connect with, let alone multiple. But whenever you do, it can be overwhelming to juggle conversations with several people. The thing to keep in mind is that you are not doing anything wrong. In fact, you’re in a pretty privileged position. You have options. Enjoy that, and don’t feel guilty! Unless you have made a
MADDIE SANDHOLM /THE OBSERVER
commitment to one person or had a conversation about being exclusive, it is fair to assume that you are free to talk to other people. I’m not sure how long you have been talking to these respective people, but it can take time to find someone with whom you really click. I promise you that whoever you are talking to is most likely also talking to multiple people themselves. Take dating apps, for instance. They’re created with the express purpose of connecting single people with
multiple prospective partners, and there is nothing wrong with talking to more than one at a time. Don’t be afraid to go on dates and meet all of these people in person. Chemistry online is very different from chemistry in person. Share your location and meet somewhere public, but put yourself out there. As long as you take measures to keep yourself safe, meeting someone in person is a great way to figure out if you have a lasting connection.
You might be feeling guilty for talking to multiple people because there is one person in particular that you know you like above the rest. If there is one person that stands out from the pack, pursue them. Stay true to yourself, and make sure that you are not sabotaging something potentially great. But the second that you reach a decision about wanting a future with that one person, let the other ones go. Trust your gut, and stay honest with everyone. You don’t want to lead anyone on or hurt anyone’s feelings, so as long as you are upfront with everyone that you are talking to, you are in a golden position to get to know multiple people. It’s also important to keep in mind that you are not obligated to enter into a relationship with any of them. If none of them feel right for you, that’s fine. If you’re not looking to enter into a relationship right now, that’s fine as well. I recommend asking the people you’re talking to why they are putting themselves out there. It’s essential to make sure you are all on the same page. That might be a first step toward alleviating some of that guilt
you’re feeling. Enjoy being young and single. Dating can cause anxiety, but it’s important to remember that you are a college student in New York City. You should be using this time to get to know yourself and build the future that you want. If one of these people fits into your five-year plan, then great. But you’ll be perfectly fine either way.
Have any questions about love or relationships in NYC or Fordham? Ask Em! Submit your dilemma with a pseudonym to opinions@fordhamobserver.com. All questions will be anonymous, and any and all names will be changed. Submissions may be edited for grammatical errors and brevity.
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SATIRE & HUMOR
Want an Unhappy Marriage? Propose in Central Park
Save your time, money and relationship by avoiding New York City’s greatest atrocity: public park proposals ISABELLA SCIPIONI Opinions Editor
Since moving to New York, I’ve always loved to walk through Central Park and explore its many attractions. However, there is one public nuisance that I can’t stay silent about any longer. Picture it: a crowd of anxious family members, cameras at the ready, waiting next to a set of balloons spelling out “MARRY ME?” over the Central Park Boathouse. Yes, I hate public proposals. But before you jump down my throat and condemn me to a life of spinsterhood, let me explain. As someone who unfortunately loves to walk around Bethesda Fountain and romanticize New York, I have seen far too many public proposals and have officially deemed them tacky at best. At worst, they’re nothing but uncomfortable for all parties involved. Central Park is a beautiful place to ask someone to spend the rest of their life with you, which is why so many people get down on one knee there every year. Public engagements are so popular that Central Park offers “proposal packages” on their website, with the “Surprise Proposal Package” costing a whopping $1,500 for proposal planning, one hour of photography, a dozen roses and the knowledge that you wasted valuable money that could have gone toward your mortgage or the most expensive party you will ever throw in your life. Side note: If your proposal plan includes paying someone for a public good, maybe you shouldn’t be the one making financial decisions in your relationship.
ILLUSTRATION BY ROXANNE CUBERO/THE OBSERVER
Whether planned lovingly or by a neutral third party, Central Park proposals are far too common. In my rulebook, a public proposal should happen once in a blue moon, but since moving to New York a year ago, I’ve seen at least a dozen of these “intimate” moments and no irregularly colored moons. New York is home to over 8 million people, and if you are considering popping the question in the park, remember that you are certainly not the first person to do so. You’ll need to think pretty hard outside of the box to make a public Central Park proposal original. It’s honestly better to just think outside of the park. Every proposal I’ve seen has had some variation of spelling out the words “Marry Me?” using both the creativity and artistic skills of a second grader. Let’s be honest, the only person impressed by this spectacle is the
Hobby Lobby cashier who sold the lazy proposer their poster paper and glitter paint. Whether written on a sign, in sidewalk chalk or in balloon letters, proposers must go out of their way to make their performance exciting. Private proposals don’t require this unnecessary spectacle because the proposal itself is enough excitement for the couple involved. I have to wonder, are these signs really for the person getting proposed to, or are they just a convenient way to fill in the hundreds of onlookers posting a strangers’ proposal on their Instagram stories. While well-intentioned, these proposals scream high school sweethearts asking each other to the prom. Call me crazy, but I think asking someone to share a life with you is a bit more serious than a 17-year-old asking their crush to split a limo ride to
their high school’s gym. Tackiness aside, I will admit that witnessing a public proposal can warm anyone’s day, that is, if it goes according to plan. Worse than their lack of originality is public proposals’ tendency to end in disaster. The risk of having the person you love reject you and your bubble-letter technique in front of hundreds of strangers is far too high for public proposals to be as normalized as they are. Do not subject yourself, your partner, your spectators, and most importantly, me to this unwanted plot twist. If you still feel like a public proposal is the best way to show your love, please, I beg of you, talk it over first! So many proposals go wrong because the person proposing wants to surprise their partner, including the part about spending every waking minute with them for
the rest of their lives. If you’re thinking about proposing, ask your partner how they feel about marriage and your relationship’s future before putting them and yourself in an uncomfortable situation. You can still surprise someone about when, where and how you pop the question, but maybe, just maybe, the concept of marriage should not be a complete shock to your prospective fiancée. I would like to mention that there are plenty of non-tacky ways to propose in Central Park, and the biggest thing they have in common is that they’re not in public. My father proposed to my mother privately on a horse-drawn carriage ride in the park, which was then followed by a meal at the short-lived WWE-themed restaurant in Times Square (I WISH that were a joke). While I am a biased source, and his choice of restaurant was more than questionable, I’ll give him credit for finding a romantic and private way to propose in the park. Given that there are alternatives to proposing in public, I question the motivations of those who choose to pop the question in front of a stadium of strangers. Do they think that their partners won’t say no if they ask them to get married in front of dozens of people? I’m sure a marriage founded on politeness and fear of public humiliation will be a long and happy one. Before you ask someone to marry you in public, ask yourself, do I really want to get married, or do I just want attention? If your answer is the latter, maybe consider proposing in a restaurant so you can at least get a free dessert out of it. The risk of being publicly rejected for a promposal 2.0 is too great.
Arts & Culture Editors Isabella Gonzalez Olivia Stern arts@fordhamobserver.com
Arts & Culture
February 16, 2022 THE OBSERVER
Clothing and Couture in the Concrete Jungle
FASHION WEEK from page 1
It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that the city holds the fashion industry in its palm. But just as Rome wasn’t built in a day, New York did not earn its reputation overnight. It only formally emerged onto the global style scene in the 1940s, taking the place of Paris as the fashion Through Rose-Tinted Glasses For Pritha Lamichhane, Fordham College at Lincoln Center (FCLC) ’24, fashion is a world of its own — one she desperately wants to be a part of. Although she cites fashion as her first love, the Nepal-born and Texas-raised Lamichhane considers herself an outsider. “My main goal and the reason that I came to New York is to become an insider in fashion,” she said. “I’d love to be part of the industry. My real passion is fashion and, hopefully, it will be my main career someday.” Lamichhane works toward this dream in increments, her journey manifesting itself with each post on her Instagram page. Behind every picture set in that familiar three-row grid is a process of offering to model clothes for small businesses, reaching out to partner with local photographers, and scouting different places in the city to hold test shoots. She describes it as her creative outlet, and she is in love with the ritual of it all.
capital of the world during World War II. The innovation and ease of designs — that quintessential American casualness — defined American fashion and allowed New Yorkers to cling to this title decades later. “New York is a cultural capital first and foremost,” Allison Pfingst, Fordham fashion studies depart-
ment adviser and administrator, said. “The culture around New York is part of what draws people to it, especially from all over the world. The mixing pot that makes New York, New York, also makes New York fashion.” The city’s reputation is owed in no small part to modern media,
which has consistently worked to cultivate and construct New York’s image as a style utopia. Fashion-focused movies and TV shows including “The Devil Wears Prada,” “Sex and the City” and its current revival “And Just Like That ... ” have not only given audiences a repertoire of iconic looks tied to New York, but also
At the end of the day, her Instagram page is a lovingly curated collection of what brings her joy. Interspersed between pictures of herself and the style she continues to evolve are snapshots of the city she holds so close to her heart. “New York is the center of the world. Where else would I go?” Lamichhane said. “I think people are very interesting here, in a very good way. Whether you want to do politics or whether you want to do fashion or whatever you want to do — I feel like New York has the best opportunities for everyone.” The sentiment is a distinctly rose-tinted view of New York, but Lamichhane believes there to be some truth to back the claim. And while she admits to being guilty of romanticizing the city, she doesn’t necessarily think it’s a bad thing either. “In a way, it’s good to romanticize New York,” she said. “It makes you feel powerful. It makes you feel like you’re going somewhere with your life and you’re doing something.”
Pritha Lamichhane, FCLC ’24, uses her Instagram account as a creative outlet to express her style.
COURTESY OF PRITHA LAMICHHANE
There’s Something About It
COURTESY OF WILL RUPFF
Will Rupff, FCLC ’25, is originally from Connecticut, but he always aspired to live out his fashion dreams in NYC.
A City of Contrasts Self-identifying punk Madison “Rat” DeStefano, FCLC ’25, establishes themself as staunchly anti-fashion. To her, the short-lived cycle of trends and the vices of environmental waste and exploitation that often accompany it run counter to what she stands for. “Even if my clothes don’t technically look good, they have so much character, and that means a lot to me. I love looking into my closet and feeling like I’m looking in a mirror,” DeStefano said. “Even if I’m wearing the same clothes, I feel really fulfilled, and I feel like a lot of people miss that in the fashion industry. It’s more fleeting and that excitement will go away.” In the true spirit of punk culture, the clothes they wear are either thrifted or made by hand. Last
summer, DeStefano established her business, Junkyard, with the aim of combating fast fashion by extending her skills of revamping old and unused clothes to buyers. Although DeStefano can’t see herself in any place other than New York, they didn’t need the spirit of the big city to feel affirmed in their choice of clothes, since she has aligned herself with punk culture since sixth grade. Rather, they regard New York as a dichotomy able to both breed creativity and smother individuality. “I feel like the city is alive. There are different types of people and lifestyles here, and it’s really interesting to see the whole world culminated in one place,” she said. “But the fashion industry also prevents this. We keep buying all the new clothes that companies are producing in bulk for these con-
have contributed to the rose-tinted haze in which we see the city. New York’s reputation as something of a designer dreamland would be the stuff of legend if not for the history to back it up and the publicity to bolster its name — but can the city’s mythologized spirit of style be felt by Fordham students?
stantly changing styles. I think that’s dangerous for mental health and individuality itself. The more we morph into this one thing, the smaller our world becomes.” To DeStefano, the spirit of New York isn’t reflected in the shiny store windows on Fifth Avenue, but rather in the basements where the punk shows she frequents are held. “They’re typically pretty rundown, but to me, it’s a physical representation of the city. It’s got a lot of garbage, but it has a lot of character and a lot of art everywhere,” they said. “We try to make our society very tidy and clean-cut, and I like that that’s not what it is.” New York City isn’t all the glitz and grandeur it’s depicted as on screen, but it is exactly for this reason that DeStefano calls it “the closest place to home” that she knows.
For Will Rupff, FCLC ’25, home is in Connecticut, only an hour away from the city, but he can sense a tangible difference in spirit when he crosses state lines. “I always used to go to New York with my dad every year when I was younger,” he said. “And just immediately, when I would get off the train at Grand Central Station, there was this vibrant energy, and there was just something about it.” To Rupff, fashion in New York offers more freedom and space for exploration. In his first year at Fordham, he traded out button-downs and cricket sweaters for blazers and wide-legged pants — the experimental environment of the big city a far cry from the collegiate, Ivy League appearance associated with New England. He found that the lure of New York would never truly leave him, accompanying him throughout his high school years to the point where attending college out of state felt like the most natural course of action; it was in the city that the kid who used to watch Chanel and
Yves Saint Laurent runway shows under his covers felt most at home. “I feel like New York is the center of the world in a sense. It just always felt right. I always clicked,” he said. “There’s a diversity of people, a diversity of fashion, but there’s also a diversity of thought. There are different perspectives that converge, and that’s where you truly get to meet new people and new experiences.” Much like the city itself, Rupff describes his style as ever-evolving: different when compared to two months past and different in the next two months to come. His more liberated style of dress, for example, is representative of the newest chapter of his life — one where he is afforded more freedom to choose the direction he wants to head in. “Fashion is really just an honest pursuit of joy and inspiration. You can always partake in the fashion industry, whether it’s for comfort, or for style, or for pleasure,” he said. “It really is meant for everyone. The sense of inclusivity when you put on a garment makes you feel like you’re part of something bigger, deeper and more impactful.”
COURTESY OF MADISON ‘“RAT” DESTEFANO
Madison DeStefano, FCLC ’25 (left), thrifts and makes their clothes by hand.
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Oscar Nominations ’22: A Return to Movie Normalcy
The Academy is back at it again, exhilarating and disappointing movie fans with its annual Oscar nominations By MICHAEL MATHEWS Staff Writer
At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, film productions were shut down and delayed, and the thought of going to a movie theater became foreign and dangerous. As things seem to be returning to normalcy, we are once again flocking to the theaters, and the era of low box office numbers and major movie delays seems to be fading into the past. The year 2021 was a return to a typical movie year: The box office was dominated by Marvel movies like “Spider-Man: No Way Home” and “Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings” and the sci-fi epic “Dune,” while period pieces like “The Power of the Dog,” “Licorice Pizza,” and “Belfast” dominated the awards circuit. The movie magic that was missing in 2020 reappeared in 2021, giving us the opportunity to escape our sometimes dreary reality by transporting ourselves into new worlds and connecting with new and old characters. This return to normalcy in the movie industry has set up a great year for the Oscars. During the Feb. 8 announcement of the 2022 Oscar nominations, hosts Tracee Ellis Ross and Leslie Jordan repeatedly emphasized that the Oscars are dedicated to movie lovers. Through the Oscars, we get a general overview of the public’s perception of the movies from the year. However, we all know that the Academy Awards will never get the nominations “right” because everyone has their own opinion on what should and should not be nominated. It is through the surprises and snubs every year that we are able to join together as movie lovers — whether in pain or joy — and ride the rollercoaster of emotions that is the Oscar nominations announcement.
Just like all the other Oscar nomination announcements, there were a ton of surprises and snubs this year. Leading the way in nominations was Netflix’s powerhouse western “The Power of the Dog,” picking up 12 Oscar nominations; it was followed by arguably the most anticipated movie of 2021, “Dune,” which scored 10 nominations. Look for these two films to pick up plenty of awards and dominate at the Oscars on March 27. Now, for the moment you’ve been waiting for: the surprises and snubs. Surprises: ‘Drive My Car,’ ‘Nightmare Alley’ Exceed Expectations Ryusuke Hamaguchi’s Japanese film “Drive My Car” earned four nominations including Best Picture and Best Director after only earning a mere $3.6 million at the U.S. box office. The carnival noir “Nightmare Alley,” by Academy Award-winning director Guillermo del Toro was predicted to only receive a Best Cinematography nomination, but, surprisingly, it snuck into the Best Picture, Best Production Design and Best Costume Design categories. Snub: Denis Villeneuve Not Nominated for Best Director Heading into the nomination announcement, it seemed like Villeneuve was a sure-fire bet to be nominated for Best Director for his work on successfully adapting one of the most notoriously difficult books to translate to the screen in “Dune.” However, his name was noticeably absent, a trend in his illustrious career after being previously snubbed for Best Director nominations for some of his other films like “Prisoners” and “Blade Runner 2049.”
Surprises: Best Supporting Actor and Actress Categories Throughout the awards season leading up to the Oscar nominations, the Best Supporting Actor category has had everyone guessing. Two of the five nomination spots were seen as toss-ups, with predictions having actors like Ben Affleck (“The Tender Bar”), Jared Leto (“House of Gucci”) and Jamie Dornan (“Belfast”) seen as the front-runners to take up those last two spots. However, the Academy nominated Jesse Plemons for his subtle performance in “The Power of the Dog” and J.K. Simmons for his work in “Being the Ricardos,” a movie about the relationship between Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz behind the scenes of the classic sitcom “I Love Lucy.” Contrary to the Best Supporting Actor category, the Best Supporting Actress category was thought to be relatively set in stone. But the one thing moviegoers learn every year is to expect the unexpected from the Oscars. The best supporting actress category kicked off the nomination announcements and set up the rest of the morning to be full of surprises and snubs. Jessie Buckley earned a well-deserved but surprising nomination for her performance in Netflix’s “The Lost Daughter,” while Academy-voter favorite Judi Dench earned her eighth career nomination for “Belfast,” stealing the spot from her much more deserving co-star Caitríona Balfe. Snub: ‘tick, tick…BOOM!’ Didn’t Detonate in the Hearts of Academy Voters Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Netflix adaptation of legendary playwright Jonathan Larson’s musical “tick, tick…BOOM!,” one of the year’s most entertaining and
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Actresses Wanda Sykes, Regina Hall and Amy Schumer will host the 94th Oscars on ABC on Sunday, Mar. 27 at 8 p.m. EDT.
meaningful movies, failed to get a Best Picture nomination. In one of the strongest years for musicals in recent memory, the Academy only saved room for one musical to earn a Best Picture nomination, Steven Spielberg’s remake of “West Side Story,” which earned the spot over other strong musicals like “tick, tick…BOOM!,” “In the Heights” and “Cyrano.” Surprise: Lady Gaga Not Nominated for Best Actress in ‘House of Gucci’ Several Oscar award pages were predicting Lady Gaga to win Best Actress for her performance in “House of Gucci,” so it was a surprise when Penélope Cruz for her performance in “Parallel Mothers” and Kristen Stewart for her performance in “Spencer” were chosen over Gaga. Unfortunately, there are always a couple films every year that noticeably miss the cut, not earning any nominations. Some of the Best Movies From the Year That Missed the Oscars: “The Green Knight,” a retell-
ing of the medieval folklore story of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, had some of the best costumes and cinematography of the year. “Mass,” a solemn and tragic view on how parents are affected by school shootings, had performances from Jason Isaacs and Ann Dowd that were worthy of Oscar nominations. “C’mon C’mon,” a beautiful story about the relationship between a boy and his uncle as they learn from each other the importance of family and love, had Oscar-worthy acting from 13-year-old Woody Norman and Academy Award-winning actor Joaquin Phoenix. “The Summit of the Gods,” a Netflix animated movie about a journalist and a climber whose paths cross as they attempt to make their way to the top of Mount Everest. “The Harder They Fall,” a Netflix western that pops off the screen with vibrant costumes and a rocking soundtrack, including the likes of Jay-Z and Kid Cudi. The 94th Oscars will be aired on ABC on Sunday, March 27, at 8 p.m. EDT.
Top 5 Love Stories Set in New York City
From the 1960s to the early 2000s, there is no shortage of NYC rom-coms to pull at your heartstrings By RILEY DRUMM Contributing Writer
There is no better occasion to binge-watch classic romantic movies than the week of Valentine’s Day. Whether you are looking for a fun night in with friends or an intimate evening with a significant other, the movies on this list will check off all the boxes. I personally cannot think of anything else I would rather be doing on a night in. As we are also located in the city that never sleeps, what better way to combine the two and focus on rom-coms that take place in New York City?
‘Breakfast at Tiffany’s’ One of the most iconic New York City films, “Breakfast at Tiffany’s,” (1961) follows the love story of a young woman (Audrey Hepburn) who meets a young man (George Peppard) who lives in the same apartment building as her. As she begins to
take interest in him, her past begins to interfere with this budding romance. This film, while being an American classic, is also the perfect movie if you are looking for that old-time New York vibe. Filled with heartfelt moments and old love, Blake Edwards’ film is sure to leave you satisfied.
‘Moonstruck’ This movie will certainly fulfill all of your dramatic needs. “Moonstruck” (1987) offers a classically comedic scenario: A woman who is set to marry a man but accidentally falls for his younger brother. Cher’s Oscar-worthy performance of the
‘13 Going on 30’ Directed by Gary Winick, “13 Going On 30” (2004) is a captivating story that follows a young girl who wishes to become an adult more than anything. Jenna Rink (Jennifer Garner)’s adolescence is filled with mean girls and confusing boys, and when her intricately planned birthday party goes awry, it’s the final straw. To her surprise, she wakes up in a beautiful apartment in New York City with a boyfriend, best friend and a full-time job at her dream fashion magazine. As she is learning how to navigate this new life trapped in an adult body, she reunites with her old best friend, Matt Flamhaff (Mark Ruffalo). The two become inseparable once again, and a romantic spark is set aflame.
main character Loretta Castorini tackled the role of a fantasy woman in New York City in the ’80s. This romantic movie will surely make you swoon, and it will also provide drama and laughs for your entertainment. ‘When Harry Met Sally’ The chemistry between main characters Sally Albright (Meg Ryan) and Harry Burns (Billy Crystal) is undeniable in the ’90s rom-com “When Harry Met Sally” (1989). This tale of the relationship between men and women, platonic friends, and sex gets messy when the two graduate college students reunite later on in life. As they continuously cross paths in the Big Apple, they begin to wonder if a romance could take place between them. This Oscar-nominated movie features iconic NYC landmarks like Katz’s Delicatessen. ‘Serendipity’
GRAPHIC ILLUSTRATION BY ROXANNE CUBERO/THE OBSERVER
Last but certainly not least, “Serendipity” (2001) is a beautiful story about love at first sight. Two individuals, played by John Cusack and Kate Beckinsale, are on a 30-year journey to find each other again after they had been separated. Whether you call it fate or destiny, this movie gives all the feels you need. It is as romantic as it gets.
www.fordhamobserver.com
THE OBSERVER
February 16, 2022
Arts & Culture
15
Lunar New Year at Fordham
AAPI celebrates the Year of the Tiger with weeklong festivities on campus with good fortune and fun By KATE LU Contributing Writer
Following a weekend of snow and rain, the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) committee at Fordham Lincoln Center hosted a series of weeklong events inspired by various Asian holiday festivities to celebrate the 2022 Lunar New Year.
“ I think the Lunar New
Year is definitely a time to spend with family and friends and celebrate not only the year ahead of you but also everything you have accomplished in the past. ” Rachana Poudel, FCLC ’24 and AAPI board member COURTESY OF AAPI COMMITTEE
The Lunar New Year is widely celebrated among many East and Southeast Asian cultures. Marking the start of the lunar calendar, the holiday is typically a time for feasting and for family members to gather together around a table full of laughter and joy. The Lunar New Year begins with the first new moon — which typically occurs between late January and early February — and lasts until the full moon arrives. Even though the Chinese New Year is the most widely known, Lunar New Year is also celebrated in Korea, Vietnam and many other Asian countries.
Students tabled during the week of Lunar New Year, along with numerous events to celebrate the Year of the Tiger.
“I think the Lunar New Year is definitely a time to spend with family and friends and celebrate not only the year ahead of you but also everything you have accomplished in the past,” said Rachana Poudel, Fordham College at Lincoln Center (FCLC) ’24 and one of AAPI’s board members. “It is a time for reflection and celebration.” In honor of the Lunar New Year, AAPI hosted various cultural events and activities, such as red envelope treats, paper lantern crafts, goldfish origami and movie night.
“We had a wide range of people who came to our tabling events on Monday and Tuesday,” Poudel said. “People of all backgrounds, not just people of Asian descent.” Poudel continued, “There were lots of people who were interested in learning about the Lunar New Year and Asian cultures in general.” The AAPI committee wanted to encourage diversity and discussions about Asian cultures and traditions through the celebration events. The red envelope tabling event on Feb. 7 was a huge suc-
cess for AAPI, according to Poudel and various committee members. As students passed by the plaza on the first floor of the Leon Lowenstein Center, the red table display decorated by committee members drew students in, and they would leave the building with chocolate coins and red envelopes in their hands. On Feb. 8, around 20 students participated in the AAPI arts and crafts session at Argo Tea, where they made small paper lanterns and goldfish ornaments with red and yellow origami paper. Due to the poor weather con-
ditions in New York City on Feb. 4 and 5, AAPI had to cancel the planned trip to the New World Mall Food Court in Flushing, Queens, that Friday. “We are thinking about rescheduling the event in the future,” Poudel said. “The whole week, we also tried our best to advertise for the outing on Friday, and we did get great responses from people who were planning on coming.” At the events, committee members taught participants about the symbols of the Lunar New Year. Each new lunar year is represented by one of the 12 zodiac animal signs and one of the five elements: fire, water, earth, wood and metal. The 12 zodiac animals of the cycle are rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, sheep, monkey, rooster, dog and pig. The year 2022 is said to be the year of the water tiger. Occurring every 60 years, the water tiger symbolizes a year of courage, strength, confidence and leadership, as well as the expulsion of evil signs and negativity in life. “Transitioning from a hybrid celebration of the new year through a mix of Zoom and in-person events last year due to COVID to being fully in-person has been a great and more immersive experience for the Fordham community,” Poudel said. “We love being able to see everyone and their smiles.” On Saturday in Chinatown, the Asian American and Pacific Islander Alumni at Fordham Affinity Chapter celebrated the Lunar New Year by watching the “Super Saturday” Lion Dance and supported local businesses still recovering from the pandemic. Participants were encouraged to bring small bills placed in red envelopes to give to the Lions.
TikTok, Music and Gatekeeping
The belief that experience of music should be left to a particular generation is proven wrong by social media By GABRIEL GARCIA Staff Writer
TikTok was the most downloaded app across iOS and Android platforms in 2021. During that year, the social media platform had a billion monthly users. The app has considerable influence on social media trends and internet behavior, and one of its most potent influences is on music.
Like kindergarteners who refuse to share their toys, some people enjoy when a certain object is theirs and theirs alone, disregarding the wants of others. The short song or audio clips attached to the videos are crucial to the content viewing experience. TikTok’s musical selection has implications that exist outside of the confines of the app; they can also be seen on the music charts. In 2021, 175 songs that were viral on TikTok made the Billboard Hot 100. Many contemporary artists were present, such as Megan Thee Stallion, Olivia Rodrigo and Doja Cat. On the other hand, there were also older songs present on the Hot 100. There are two categories for these older songs: “come-
back” songs and “classic” songs. Comeback songs are between five and 25 years old, such as Britney Spears’ 2007 song “Gimme More” and Destiny’s Child’s 1999 hit “Bills, Bills, Bills.” Classic songs were released more than 25 years ago, from Billy Joel’s “Zanzibar” to Boney M’s “Rasputin,” both of which were released in 1978. Almost half of TikTok’s userbase is between 10 and 29 years old, so these older songs are now reaching a younger audience who may not have listened to them were it not for their TikTok popularity. As with all social media platforms, TikTok has its disadvantages. The app is notorious for being addicting, thanks to its short videos and precise algorithm, which certainly do not increase the attention span of viewers, who already have an attention span shorter than that of a goldfish. However, this trend of renewed attention to music that has fallen out of popularity is one of the better consequences of the app. Of course, not everyone is a fan of these classic songs becoming viral on TikTok. It is not hard to find older people who listened to these songs when they were released decades ago and are critical that they are now background noise for new memes or dance moves. Instead of appreciating that a song now has a longer and more complex legacy, many instead lament that reappropriation by younger people has “ruined” the song.
This phenomenon is not exclusive to TikTok and can be seen throughout the entertainment industry, reemerging whenever there is a reboot of a new film or series. It stems from a reactionary possessiveness of the past, with many arguing that the way a form of entertainment was experienced years ago is inherently better than the way it is being consumed today. These sentiments are usually expressed through a desire for “nostalgia” or “authenticity.” Naturally, there are instances
in which the contemporary use of media might be for the worse. A person doesn’t have to be born in the 1970s to think that “Just the Two of Us” is performed better by Bill Withers than Will Smith, for example. Nonetheless, there are times when it seems like the problem for these critics is not content but circumstance, with that circumstance being exposure to these songs via the internet instead of another format. Like kindergarteners who refuse to share their
toys, some people enjoy when a certain object is theirs and theirs alone, disregarding the wants of others. The fact that we have access to recorded music at all is a modern miracle, and one can only imagine how many songs have been lost to time. Rather than lament that musical experience is not the domain of one era alone, it should be celebrated that multiple generations can enjoy the same song played and heard in the same way. In other words, listen on!
GRAPHIC ILLUSTRATION BY ROXANNE CUBERO/THE OBSERVER
Fun & Games Editor Kreena Vora puzzles@fordhamobserver.com
un & ames
February 16, 2022 THE OBSERVER
Crossword: Fictitious Love
23. Some think the best way to get over someone is to find a one 26. Money at the Tokyo Tower 27. Succumbed to addiction (Abbr.) 28. “ always been you” 30. Previous 32. How often anniversaries come (Abbr.) 35. “Everlong” and “Best of You” band Fighters 36. Willing attitude (2 wds) 37. Cheers up 40. When getting married, you are committing to waking up next to one when the time comes 43. *Lady in a Margaret Mitchell book 46. Aptly abbreviated baby diagnostic tool 50. It can 65 Across you 51. Pronoun for a couple 53. This may cause a lovers’ quarrel 54. 45 for Shakespeare’s classical star-crossed lovers 55. Hopefully the response to “Will you be my valentine?” in Moscow 56. Mined to make gold, silver and diamond rings 58. You and a soulmate might be two of this in a pod 59. Name for a painting made by a chemist, maybe? (2 wds) 62. Fog 64. Outburst of anger
BY CORBIN GREGG & KREENA VORA
16. *Lady in a George Orwell novel 17. *Lady in a William Shakespeare play 19. The sight of a crush may leave arm hair standing like this (2 wds) 20. Food for a date on a Tuesday? 21. These are tamed in plays by the Bard
1. Romance languages’ love? 5. Sensitivity 9. All of these are overlooked in a partner 14. Clinic where Cristina Yang worked on hearts 15. Like DNAs, but without a partner
LISTEN TO YOUR RAM
Valentine’s Day Date
, was a Ram on a mission. As the snack food
letter
BY IRENE HAO
newest contestant on “The Bachelor,” I knew the key was to make a(n)
first impression. So, of course, I adjective
drove to the mansion in a
wearing a(n)
costume. animal
was flower
pasta
show. We fit together like type of arts & crafts
two
in a(n) noun, plural
. I made it to the final noun
four, and it was time for hometown dates. I set it up so that we met Fr. McShane and
for
favorite professor
at type of food
. And now, it’s time to go ring shopping! location at Fordham
Do you think we should get married at
? NYC location
RAM LIBS BY GRACE GETMAN RAM LIBS GRAPHIC BY CHAISE JONES
A B C
A B C
immediately wooed. For our first date, we went to see ’s
Where do you go to hang out with your friends? Central Park Argo Tea My dorm room
25. Flowers and chocolates may just them over 29. Text sent on a bad date 31. Offputting in a potential partner 33. *43 Across’s love 34. What one does to a book, in Lisbon 38. Stringy to the max 39. Explosives 41. To prevent another 42. Taken from work for a couple’s retreat (Abbr.) 43. Raunchy subject of an NYC museum 44. Plant or animal building block prefix 45. Hypothesis stating that dinosaurs were killed by an asteroid 47. Used to contact a departed loved one (Abbr.) 48. To court someone in a less appealing way? 49. Gossip 52. Class that teaches how to manage one’s life, briefly 55. *73 Across’s love 57. *74 Across’s love 60. Ruth’s husband in the Bible 61. “Show, don’t ” 63. Streetcar 64. Your S.O.’s dad, after marriage 66. Romanian currency 67. Scorn 68. Charge 69. Animal associated with location-based social media app
What ’s your go-to lunch or dinner spot around campus? A B
Burrito Box
C
Ram Café
The halal cart on the corner of 60th street
What is the coolest place in Lowenstein? A B
The 12th Floor Lounge
C
Does the new SL hallway count?
The 6th floor with its comfy, fancy chairs
Out of these, which are you most likely You’re scrolling through your Instagram to decorate your dorm room with? feed while procrastinating work when
vehicle
B-list celebrity
1. A dinner and a movie date may end at the Lincoln Square 2. Bad in the city of love 3. Attention grabber, in Mexico 4. Heart, as of a problem 5. A successful thief doesn’t leave one 6. *17 Across’s love 7. A necessity for a romantic drive 8. Airport security agencies 9. Icy Icelandic inlet 10. “Clair de ” 11. Beermaker’s lady? 12. *16 Across’s love 13. One who is single this month may feel this 18. The boss’s dime 22. Georgetown mascot 23. Fake people in video games (Abbr.) 24. Monroe’s “ of Good Feelings”
Your Fordham Favorites Will Tell Us Your Ideal
The Bachelor Presents:
I,
65. When sparks fly, they might do this to you 70. A large artery providing blood to the legs (Var.) 71. Lengthy cousin of garlic, onions and chives 72. Place 73. *Lady in a Jane Austen story 74. *Lady in a Ball and Arnaz piece 75. Frail
LED lights
Succulent plants Favorite movie or concert posters
Mostly A ’s
You are an adventurous person who loves to explore and get to know your surroundings. An ideal date may be exploring a new neighborhood in Manhattan or another borough.
Mostly B’s
You’re stylish and cool, and if you’ve rarely heard that, people are just too awestruck to say it to your face. Keep living your life. You might enjoy dinner at a trendy NYC restaurant followed by dessert at the newest Instagrammable ice cream shop.
you spot a Fordham-related post. Which Fordham account is it from? A B C
@fordham_flirts @lc_sinners @fordhamaffirmations
Mostly C’s
You prefer to stay close to home, and that’s perfectly fine! You’re comforting and a great listener, but it never hurts to step out of your comfort zone. Your ideal date might be a quiet night watching a movie or playing games.
GRAPHIC ILLUSTRATIONS AND PAGE DESIGN BY KYLA MCCALLUM
