The event began with a game that the BUJA E-Board dubbed “Big Ball Relay,” a mix of volleyball and baseball where teammates passed an inflatable ball to each other while running to the finish line. Afterward, players took to the field for an intense game of tug-of-war, where the E-Board and attendees worked together to compete.

Winners of each game received prizes ranging from Pokémon cards, a digital camera and a full matcha set.

“As BUJA, we decided to take part in Undokai because it’s an interactive way to share real Japanese culture,” Michi Shito, cultural chair for BUJA and a sophomore majoring in business administration, wrote. “Instead of food or DIY events, this event lets people actually participate in Japanese tradition and experience the same joy that Japanese students feel during the school year.”

BUJA works as a very active organization on campus, bridging a multitude of cultures for all students. Rintaro Onishi, president of BUJA and a junior majoring in biochemistry, said that the Undokai event was just one of several the organization hosts to spread Japanese culture.

The games continued with a relay race that depended on active communication. Students were grouped with new people and connected with each other through the fast-paced game. Winners were awarded a set of stationery from MUJI.

No matter the winner, all attendees celebrated one another with great sportsmanship.

“It is important to have interactive events such as Undokai, as it provides a fun opportunity to educate students about various cultures,” wrote Leo Sharp, cultural chair of BUJA and a junior majoring in business administration. “Especially with Undokai, students can participate, interact, and celebrate together, fostering a sense of community.”

Next was a ball-throwing game called “Tamaire” that required large groups to toss balls into a basket as one teammate walked around the field. Though it seemed like an individual task, the teams had to quickly adapt and learn when someone was throwing a ball and tried to help each other aim properly.

Due to BUJA’s commitment to campus engagement, the organization prides itself on staying busy throughout the semester.

“This semester, students can look forward to DIY Daruma crafting, as well as collaborations with other organizations, like dumpling making and calligraphy workshops,” Shito wrote. “The highlight of the semester will be Winter Matsuri on November 16th, which is BUJA’s biggest annual event, so we’re excited for everyone to join!”

The event concluded with a game of “Shogaibutsu-kyōsō,” an elaborate obstacle course race where contestants completed multiple high-intensity games, ending with retrieving candy clipped to a piece of string using only their mouths. Attendees bonded with and applauded one another, creating a welcoming field day for everyone to enjoy.

“I hope that the participants will leave with fun memories, competing against each other while learning about the traditional Japanese games,” Sharp wrote. “My wish is that everybody walks away feeling that they were part of something meaningful and joyful, fostering the sense of community I mentioned earlier.”

After finding a wheel clamp on his car before leaving solo for a wedding, David Langley (Farrell) sees a conveniently placed ad for “The Car Rental Agency” and is forced to rent a car at the very last minute. Sarah Myers (Robbie), who happens to be heading to the same wedding, is sold a rental by the agency’s quirky workers, played by Phoebe Waller-Bridge and Kevin Kline. The pair meet briefly at the wedding, and their connection, though limited, is instantly intimate.

On the way back from the wedding, the seemingly magical GPS guide probes the pair to go on a “big bold beautiful journey.” The two are then reunited at a rest stop, and when Sarah’s car breaks down, the GPS guides them toward each other again, marking the beginning of this journey.

The journey — literally — opens doors to their pasts as Sarah and David are given the chance to relive wholesome memories from their childhoods, which bring the pair closer. However, they are also forced to face shameful yet pivotal moments that have molded each of their lives.

The film’s inception came from the personal experience of screenwriter Seth Reiss, most known for writing “The Menu.” After going through a bad breakup and driving himself back from a wedding, his GPS rerouted itself, and Reiss began to imagine what would happen if it instead took him on a mysterious journey. This inspired him to imbue personal desires of what he wished could happen into a film.

While Sarah and David experience the journey together, they must also focus on personal growth. They tackle the experiences they had buried down and were forced to learn and grow in the moment. The film combines a fantastical approach that we all can yearn for, while also keeping the plot grounded in truth and our lived realities.

While the quirky approach to the rom-com had an incredible cast, the general public was not thrilled. The movie has received less popularity than other new releases at the box office, along with mixed reviews from critics. Some questioned the truth behind the characters’ inner lives and their relationships to one another, while others were left dissatisfied by the film’s script and visuals.

However, even with its mixed reviews, the artistry remains undeniable and romantic.

The script was witty and simple, and the performances by Farrell and Robbie intertwined comedy and drama perfectly into a heartfelt on-screen chemistry. This was the actors’ first time working with each other, and highlighted the incredible talents of each acclaimed actor to bring a truly emotional connection to the film.

Overall, the film highlighted themes of regrets that influence our lives and gave audiences a chance to reflect on their personal journeys. “A Big Bold Beautiful Journey” was mostly lighthearted, and strongly rooted in recognizing the fluctuating human experience, touching on themes of identity, growth and sharing love. It also proposed an interesting thought — what would someone do if they were given the option to redo the past?

RATING: 4/5 

The three-day festival was a collaboration with University faculty, Indigenous peoples and other local community members, highlighting the six clans that make up the Haudenosaunee Confederacy and their culture and history.

“Too often, the distinct history and rich, resilient heritage and knowledge of Indigenous communities are not acknowledged across academic disciplines or represented as living traditions within institutions of higher education,” Tonya Shenandoah of the Oneida Nation and Turtle Clan and the Multicultural Resource Center’s assistant director of Native American and Indigenous Student Initiatives, wrote in an email. “The Haudenosaunee festival is an opportunity to share and honor the distinct history, knowledge and resilient culture that continues to guide many of the Haudenosaunee nation communities.”

The first day of the festival began with the Three Sisters Garden Harvest in the Science 1 courtyard. Attendees learned about traditional harvesting techniques used by the Haudenosaunee peoples and the folktales and history behind what gets planted. The following evening, Suzanne Halbritter, a member of the Onondaga Nation and Eel Clan, shared her experiences documenting protests at the Standing Rock Reservation between 2016 and 2017 in a presentation at the Binghamton University Art Museum.

Halbritter captured her time in the reservation through photos, artifacts and personal recounts with members. Documenting the Indigenous struggle in the United States fighting for water protection on their land, she gave a glimpse into the everyday life of Indigenous peoples today and the demonstrations that took place at Standing Rock.

“It’s to show the power of what the water is for people,” Halbritter said. “It’s not just saving Standing Rock, it’s not just that. It’s setting a precedent for everything — even everything that’s already failed.”

The second day of festivities began with canoeing in Otsiningo Park and a collection of vendors selling artwork, jewelry and books on the Peace Quad. Most of the jewelry was made out of natural objects like horse hair, seashells, crystals and wood, and many of the art pieces centered around people’s connection to nature, highlighting the Haudenosaunee’s reverence and respect toward the Earth.

Other events included a Witness to Injustice event that highlighted the effects of colonization on Indigenous groups through demonstration and storytelling. Many dance groups, comprising Indigenous people and other local community members, performed celebratory and social dances in traditional dress throughout the event. Guests joined the dances and learned more about the history behind the performance and garments.

Every aspect of the festival demonstrated an appreciation for nature, from the artwork to its panelists who discussed the conservation of endangered animal and plant species.

“There’s so much to learn,” Birgit Brander Rasmussen, an associate professor of English and a member of the festival’s organizational committee, wrote. “Many of us don’t know that the Haudenosaunee inspired the U.S. Constitution and the Suffragette Movement. This is a vibrant culture from which we can learn so much more in terms of agricultural and environmental science, philosophy, governance, literature and storytelling, history, land and water management, respect for Elders, etc.”

The final day of the festival commenced with a flag-raising ceremony, where representatives from the Onondaga Nation gave a brief speech, officially starting the day’s festivities. Along with admiring art pieces, attendees also tasted traditional Indigenous foods using ingredients collected from the harvest, like cornmeal made from corn and berries and a complementary strawberry juice.

The events continued with a lacrosse youth clinic held by Hiana Thompson and Jerome Thompson Sr., where they shared the sport’s rich connection to Indigenous history and its importance to communities nationwide. Working with the University’s men’s lacrosse team, the accomplished father and son helped young kids develop their skills and learn life lessons on the field.

Events and displays during the festival highlighted many aspects of the Haudenosaunee’s rich history and celebrated many of the values that the clans still uphold. This included the Two Row Wampum, a belt made of shells that represented a peace treaty made between Dutch settlers and the Haudenosaunee people.

The festival concluded with a final dance from the Haudenosaunee Singers and Dancers, another performance which encouraged audience participation.

“The festival builds bridges of peace and friendship, cultivating a critically needed sense of place for Native American and Indigenous students on campus, creating a sense of respect and belonging,” Shenandoah wrote. “Hosting the festival on the Binghamton University campus will expand these bridges through community partnerships and enrich the educational experiences of all students through the sharing of cultural and intellectual knowledge that continues to guide the distinct way of life of Haudenosaunee communities as separate, sovereign nations.”

Each drink has its own distinct flavor profile setting it apart. From classic pumpkin spice flavoring to buttery pecan notes, this year’s menu offers a curated selection of fall staples for whatever you feel that day, whether it be iced or hot.

As you settle into the academic year and look for an energy boost, consider trying these cozy fall beverages.

Pumpkin Spice Latte [BOLD]

Any fall menu is defined by its pumpkin spice latte. This drink is a highly anticipated seasonal classic, and for good reason. Marked with hints of spice and cinnamon between the warm creaminess of its coffee blend, this latte evokes classic fall flavors. Best served hot, the drink warms you up with autumnal notes without overdoing it, making it the perfect blend of sweet and spicy. This favorite is a great choice for a simple yet flavorful drink that is sure to get you in the fall spirit.

Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew [BOLD]

An iced drink may seem like an odd choice for the chilly months ahead, but for the sporadically warm days, the pumpkin cream cold brew is a great choice for anyone looking for a new iced option. Topped with cream, the cold brew is not too sweet, allowing for just a hint of pumpkin to come through. As the drink is on the simpler side, the pumpkin cream cold brew is perfect for anyone seeking something new without straying too far from their preferences.

Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai [BOLD]

This is definitely a sweeter option compared to the other items — and a great choice for anyone looking for something dessert-like. The chai base sets itself apart from the coffee-based drinks, and the pumpkin cream works perfectly in creating a drink that is based on complementary flavor profiles. Rather than clash in a way that a robust coffee flavor and pumpkin spice might, the spices in the chai base and pumpkin overtone blend perfectly. Sprinkled with cinnamon, the drink is a great option for non-coffee drinkers who still want to take part in one of the most anticipated seasonal releases.

Pecan Crunch Oatmilk Latte [BOLD]

Defined mostly by its vanilla base, this drink blends coffee with its nutty roots, making it a lighter option for those turned away by coffee’s bitterness. Though it has a different taste than the rest of the fall drinks, the pecan crunch oatmilk latte is very similar to the vanilla latte on Starbucks’ regular menu. This made the drink less autumn-esque compared to the other pumpkin-based items. While it may not be as distinctive as the other items on the menu, the pecan crunch oatmilk latte is still a delicious option.

Whether you love coffee or typically opt for tea-based beverages, Starbucks’ fall drink menu has an option for everyone. As classes pick up and caffeine becomes a necessity, welcome the approaching colder days with everything Starbucks has to offer.

Guests walked around and explored the event’s offerings. Many vendors sold handmade items, which emphasized the fair’s core messages of creating a safe space based on people’s personal connection to spirituality.

“The history behind the Psychic Fair at the Phelps Mansion Museum is very simple,” Lorie Jarrold, a vendor and member of Gathering Hearts of Light, the group that founded the Psychic Fair, wrote. “A group of psychics decided to attend the ghost tours at the museum one October. Since we all felt wonderful energy at the place, we thought it would be a wonderful place to host a Psychic Fair.”

The community of the Psychic Fair was exceptionally positive. Guests could strike up a conversation with anyone and be met with kindness and enthusiasm to exchange stories. Vendors and guests connected over their shared experiences and relationships to spirituality, creating a personal connection for everyone at the event.

One vendor, Dr. Pearl Reed-Klein, an adjunct associate professor of psychology at SUNY Sullivan and the owner of Sky Visions, her brand where she creates jewelry and teaches workshops, said the Psychic Fair is a holistic experience.

“I like positive energy, and I like to be involved in different types of shows or events that do have a spiritual element to them,” Dr. Klein said. “Some regular craft shows don’t have that, but people here are seeking to find meaning to their lives and to just be a healthier person, mentally and physically.”

For guests seeking inner guidance, a variety of options from tarot card readings to spiritual aura painting were available. For additional protection, crystals embedded in jewelry and everyday items, like pens and tea strainers, were for sale.

“What I love about doing readings at the fair is that you can touch base with a large group of people,” Reverend Katey Gabello, a psychic medium who has been practicing for over 30 years and is a founding member of Gathering Hearts of Light, wrote. “Through the connection with the spirit world the reader is able to bring in upliftment, guidance and healing. That’s a big part of why I do this work.”

As a hub of positive energy, everyone could find their own tie to spirituality through the event’s many facets. Along with embracing spirituality, guests experienced different perspectives and connected with new people.

Attendees are always welcome to reach out to the psychics for more information and connect with the vendors after the event, ensuring that the community continues to grow. Above all, the two-day Psychic Fair is a culmination of the spirituality seen in Binghamton, and a compelling celebration and reminder of its existence.

“The purpose of the Psychic Fair is to give people who believe [in] communication between the spirit world and us, a place to do so,” Jarrold wrote. “A place with psychics/mediums who legitimately practice their skill to present a positive message that is for the client’s best and highest interest.”

The Peace Quad was filled with countless stalls and tables showcasing over 250 clubs on campus. Accompanied by a live DJ, the sunny Peace Quad was a great place to mingle and start the semester off by meeting new people. Students interacted with different clubs and received free merchandise, making it the perfect opportunity for organizations to make a personal impact and talk to students individually.

“UFEST (University Fest) is a campus tradition going back to 1993,” Jennifer Keegin, director of campus activities, wrote in an email. “It started as a ‘campus/community’ event that invited local vendors to come to campus and showcase what the region had to offer to students. Since then, UFEST has grown and changed.”

The University and the event’s growing scale mean that planning is largely a team effort. Both Campus Activities and Nick Ginsberg, the executive vice president of the Student Association, worked over the summer to plan this year’s UFEST, according to Keegin. Typically taking place on the Peace Quad and Spine, the organizers expanded their layout to include Lot B and more organizations and academic departments.

The process also came with some challenges due to its size. As UFEST expands, however, the planning committee also changes the event’s limits to accommodate the student body’s needs.

“Planning where organizations can table was definitely a challenge,” Ginsberg wrote. “However, it was made easier because this year, my office sent a preferences form to all groups tabling at UFEST asking which category they’d like to table in as well as who they want to table next to. This took a huge amount of work off of the EVP Office, because instead of guessing where groups want to table, they were able to tell us.”

“I think that the preferences form made the challenge of placing groups at different tables a lot easier,” he continued.

Musical and performance organizations put on small performances for excited onlookers. Many tabling clubs handed out snacks and goodies to interested students, and attendees had the chance to participate in attractions like a large rock wall, a drone dome and raffles.

For many organizations and clubs, UFEST is the best time to gauge student body interest one-on-one. Members can connect with students looking to join on a deeper level compared to a larger setting, like general interest meetings.

“This is our biggest recruiting event of the year,” Mark Stephens, an instructional support specialist in the physics department and the instructor for the Physics Outreach Project, said. “We’ve got the most people here, and this is the best time to do recruiting. We’ve got all these new freshmen on campus. This is before our schedule of programs starts, so we can get some fresh volunteers in, get them up and running.”

Along with perusing clubs, students stopped by student vendors featuring clothing and jewelry and some local stores from the area selling winter hats and gloves. Students snacked on free candy and snow cones to escape the heat.

“UFEST is such an important event to have at BU because it is the only time of year where almost 300 organizations and departments are all together on the Peace Quad,” Ginsberg wrote. “That means that new (and returning) students have the ability to find groups that they had no idea existed. UFEST is one of a kind in the ways that it shows how big of a community we have here at Binghamton, and the range of clubs we offer. Beyond that, UFEST is just a fun event for student groups to table together, share why they love their group, and get creative with their tabling set up.”

So when I came to Binghamton, of course I took part in another play. But this time, it was not the same. I found myself constantly overwhelmed and annoyed. Theater became an obligation. I was surprised — how could something I valued so much for most of my life suddenly become a chore overnight?

At the same time, I felt guilty that I didn’t want to do theater anymore. I knew I wanted to give my attention to other clubs, but the feeling that I should be focusing on theater held me back. Why should I feel annoyed with doing something that gave me so much joy? Aren’t I supposed to keep doing it in college, too? I knew I wanted to study English and focus on theater outside of my classes, but now I dreaded the thought of it.

After the play ended, my friends kept urging me to act again. But instead, I chose to throw myself at other clubs. I had come to college to broaden my horizons, and that is exactly what I did.

I went to ballet seminars with new friends, joined a real estate club that I knew nothing about and, of course, I started writing intensely for Pipe Dream. I wanted to be exposed to as many environments as possible, and I quickly realized I was captivated by the different types of people I met. I participated in activities ranging from late-night games of tag to music room jam sessions after class. My world was expanding and so were my interests.

When I joined theater in college, I expected it to reignite the same excitement I had during high school. Later on, I considered maybe trying for another production, but quickly realized I would be digging myself in the same hole.

Theater was a home for me for many years. It taught me how to be comfortable with public speaking, learn creatively and make friends. It was a space that I had created for myself, and I was nervous to give it up. Choosing to leave theater felt like a betrayal to my community, and to myself — who was I without it?

This is when I decided I needed to let go. I had to allow myself the freedom to change and explore. And most importantly, I had to be OK with changing. “Change” was a scary concept for me for a very long time. I liked to have everything in my world under my control. Leaving theater behind meant I was leaving a part of myself, which meant I had to figure out what I wanted to do instead.

But what I was doing was not a betrayal. I was not saying “goodbye,” but rather, “see you later.” And change is not a bad thing — it helps us grow and find new things that make us happy.

Coming to college is a big enough change in itself, and finding new hobbies sometimes makes this change feel even more overwhelming, but it’s OK to find new hobbies and it’s OK to let go of the old ones, too. I can always come back to the theater community — it is always there for me. But it is also OK to be passionate about other things you weren’t before coming to college.

Evolving can be challenging, and getting out of your comfort zone is even scarier — it certainly was for me. But not allowing yourself to change will hurt you in the end. Many people come to college thinking they have most of their identity figured out, which is not always the case. And that is the best part — you get four years to figure it out.

Derin Aksoy, a sophomore majoring in English, is a Pipe Dream Arts & Culture intern.

Views expressed in the opinions pages represent the opinions of the columnists. The only piece that represents the view of the Pipe Dream Editorial Board is the staff editorial.

Finding an off-campus study spot can be more convenient for commuters and provide new students an opportunity to escape campus and get to know the Binghamton area. This semester, explore some new spots to spice up your studying experience.

Strange Brew Cafe

Conveniently located on Washington Street, Strange Brew Cafe is a Binghamton staple and a great spot for relaxed vibes and a good lunch. Strange Brew offers various snacks and meal options, from croissants and coffees to omelets and soups. Its seating area is surrounded by large windows, perfect for some sunlight and people watching. The homey atmosphere combines and elevates the dining hall and study experience into an ideal spot for finishing up a project or paper.

Broome County Public Library

Located within walking distance of many bus routes from campus, the Broome County Public Library offers a quiet atmosphere to focus. Students can experience the small-town vibe in this welcoming library as a less crowded alternative to Bartle Library’s busy environment. Students can also access the library’s online resources anytime to ensure that they find all the information they need.

The Public Library is a great option for honing in on studying with fewer distractions and people. And when you want a little break, feel free to roam around the aisles for interesting new reads and nostalgic childhood classics.

University Downtown Center

Some students may already take classes here, but the University Downtown Center is more than just another lecture hall. This recently renovated building offers an underrated spot for students looking for a change of location easily accessible from Binghamton University’s Off Campus College Transport buses. Big windows along the second floor offer a good location and a pleasant change of scenery from the usual campus environment. Students can also use the center’s printers and Research Assistance Services for any last-minute deadlines.

Otto Coffee Roasters

Located on State Street, Otto Coffee Roasters is a chic location for students seeking a big-city vibe. With its delicious treats and drinks, Otto’s is a hip space to sit down, study or chat, and students can grab some high-quality coffee to pair with an aesthetic experience. Otto’s decor is minimal but effective, delivering a metropolitan feel and a great alternative if you want to switch up your study routine. This is a perfect spot to grab a drink before an early afternoon class and enjoy some nice latte art away from the usual bustle of campus cafes.

Sole City Coffee

Sole City Coffee on Main Street in Johnson City is a delicious escape for anyone with a sweet tooth. Complete with an industrial-style seating area, free WiFi and lots of plants, Sole City is a lesser-known study spot for people looking for some alone time with some tasty pastries and homework. Cafe-goers can admire historic art and photography hung on exposed brick walls and enjoy relaxing music that plays throughout the establishment.

The Festival of the Arts is a collaborative process that unites all art forms created at Binghamton University, honoring students’ annual achievements and creativity. Spanning the Fine Arts Building, guests roamed around and experienced the festival at their own pace.

“It’s all about showcasing the talent, passion, and hard work of our artists — whether they’re in visual arts, design, art history, music, theater, cinema, or creative writing,” Christopher Robbins, founding director of the School of the Arts, wrote in an email. “It started as a way to break down the walls between our disciplines and create a vibrant, collaborative space where students could share their work with the broader community. We wanted something that felt dynamic and inclusive, and the festival really embodies that spirit.”

On May 7, guests were greeted with a hybrid art workshop, where they designed tote bags, snacked on some food and won free shirts, stickers and tote bags from the Art Co-op, a student-run supply store in the Fine Arts Building. Tables lined the main hall with DIY tote bags and a station where guests tried an art form that they were unfamiliar with, like collaging, writing poetry or painting.

In the hallways along the first floor, cinema reels and headphones were provided for attendees to experience short films that students created for their senior theses. Audience members could go to a classroom to watch the films from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Live jazz and opera played in the Grand Corridor as guests appreciated the walls adorned with the works of visual arts students, snacking on light refreshments. Attendees waited in line for screen-printed t-shirts and tote bags, where guests watched them be created. This visual art exhibition spanned hallways, leading to the Art & Design showcase in the Elsie B. Rosefsky Memorial Art Gallery, displaying students’ beautiful pieces stemming from months of hard work.

Putting the festival together was a long process, as planning started almost a year in advance.

“It was most important to have similar works separated from each other so that people could see how diverse all the works are and the difference in styles every student has,” Francesca Brizio, a senior double-majoring in biology and art and design and an intern for the Department of Art and Design who had her work showcased, wrote in an email. “We are a diverse group of people and artists, and that is why it is so amazing to bring it all together in one show.”

Students from the Theatre Department demonstrated their work with musical theater and improv performances, and a separate room showcased the technical aspect behind their performances. The room was full of posters displaying the process of building the sets and their different versions before making the final production of this year’s stage performances, including “Sweat” and “As You Like It.”

Costumes and set pieces were also displayed, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the designers’ work to create shows of this scale.

The second day of the festival commenced on May 9 with new additions from the Department of Art and Design like photography, visual media and more.

Sculpture and canvas art created by graduating students were showcased throughout the building. Some students created adaptations of their favorite books and films, while others created activist pieces by depicting political statements. Guests could travel down to the first floor to also experience interactive art through sound and visual projections.

The Creative Writing Department also showcased multiple readings, which highlighted student creativity.

During Poetpalooza, a poetry reading, students shared pieces they had written over the semester. Guests popped in and listened to contemporary monologues, haikus and Shakespeare recitations performed by students.

The second Word of Mouth event, a collaboration between the Music and Creative Writing Departments, showcased student poetry, composed and sung along with student musicians to create a poetic culmination of music.

The festival concluded with student award ceremonies for different artistic fields.

“I want students, regardless of major, to realize that the Arts at Binghamton are for them,” Robbins wrote. “The festival isn’t just an end point — it’s a jumping-off place for future collaborations. Come by, meet people, and get inspired.”

DeGregorio is a lecturer and associate director of creative writing at Binghamton University. She received a Bachelor of Arts in journalism from the University of Maryland, a Master of Fine Arts from CUNY Hunter College and a Ph.D. in English from BU.

“Jen’s first book, What to Wear Out, is a story in poems about a young woman who carries the weight of many women,” Tina Chang, director of the Creative Writing Program, wrote in an email. “Her female speaker copes with abuse, societal demands, and the weight of being a moral and cognizant human in a complex world. Her speaker is a daughter, partner, friend and we follow this main character as she moves from adolescence into adulthood, recounting the violence with which women encounter, and singing the praise song of her own survival.”

The book launch began with an introduction from Leslie Heywood, professor of English at BU and DeGregorio’s dissertation adviser as she acquired her Ph.D. Many poems included in the book were written during DeGregorio’s time at the University.

“It’s the perfect note for our very, very post-extracted consumer culture trying to hold on to its deadly grasp on our lives,” Heywood said. “The book really fits all the notes on that, and I was happy to see that some of the poems in the book I first saw in my own graduate poetry workshop.”

DeGregorio went on to read a selection of poems from her book, including “Mask,” “Landlines,” “All Us Jens” and “Tourist Traps.”

“Mask,” which consists of 12 individual parts, reflected the impact of the pandemic and the concept of endings. DeGregorio began by reading the book’s epigraph, a quote from Arundhati Roy, an award-winning Indian author who wrote an essay about the pandemic published in the Financial Times.

“’Historically, pandemics have forced humans to break with the past and imagine their world anew,’” DeGregorio read. “’This one is no different. It is a portal, a gateway between one world and the next.’”

“Mask” echoed this sentiment, describing the complete transformation of normal life and the heartbreak of having to retreat indoors.

“Landlines,” the second poem, commented on the old giving way for the new. In the poem, the narrator calls her childhood home, receiving no response. The work allowed the audience to envision the phone ringing in an empty space with no one to pick it up, conveying a sense of nostalgia and loneliness.

“All Us Jens” described the experience of growing up as a woman under the patriarchy. DeGregorio opened by sharing that the name “Jennifer” was the most popular name for baby girls in the United States from 1970 to 1984, and she uses the name in the poem to represent American women.

The final poem, “Tourist Traps,” tells a love story culminating in a couple’s trip to Salem. It referenced the 2023 tragedy of the Titan submersible disaster, where a submersible operated by the company OceanGate imploded and killed all five passengers.

The poem then segued into the story of where the narrator was when she heard the news, on vacation with her partner in Salem. She contrasted tales of billionaire indulgence with her own life and inner thoughts. The poem easily complemented the rest of the work, as each piece told a tumultuous tale of the narrator’s life while connecting to contemporary global problems.

The event continued with a Q&A moderated by Chang. During this portion, DeGregorio and Chang discussed the writing process, the book’s cultural implications — like how it references recent events, such as the pandemic and various cultural moments — and how the work connected each poem to moments in the poet’s life.

The audience listened attentively as DeGregorio recounted the long history of publishing her work. She shared her journey of creating her collection of poems and the struggles along the way, like finding a publisher. After pulling the draft from her original publisher, she kept working on her piece and resubmitted it.

“Jen is a Binghamton alum success story because her narrative is so relatable and real,” Chang wrote. “After she graduated with her doctorate degree, she struggled to find her place, struggled to find a job, struggled to find the right home for her creative work. None of it was easy but she persisted in writing poems, never backing down from hardship or challenge.”

DeGregorio ended the Q&A by explaining the competitive nature of writing, which can be discouraging for new writers. Even after feeling rejected, she spoke about showing resilience through tough events and eventually finding success through perseverance and hard work.

“As someone who’s gotten a lot of rejection letters in the last eight months, it’s really encouraging whenever you hear someone with a success story, especially one that took that long,” Elaine Braunshweiger, audience member and a sophomore double-majoring in English and comparative literature, said. “And as someone who wants to chase down a Ph.D., it’s really encouraging to hear that trajectory and how it played out for her in this beautiful, gorgeous, wonderful event.”

DeGregorio acts as a mentor and teacher to many students at BU. She offered advice to students looking to write and publish their own work.

“Read more than you write,” DeGregorio wrote. “Listen more than you talk. Write as often as you can. Enjoy the process. Find other writers to be in community with. If you want to publish your writing, don’t let rejection get you down (for long, anyway). Keep the faith.”

The room was filled with spring-colored pink and red decorations. A replica of the Eiffel Tower wrapped in fairy lights shadowed the corner of the space, and golden balloons spelling “Welcome to Paris” hung from the walls. Falling rose petals were projected onto the wall, adding to the romantic ambience of the event. Speakers played light hip-hop and French music.

“Pink Brunch is our annual banquet that we hold during the spring semester with the aim to bring women on campus together in order to empower, inspire, and celebrate one another,” Gianna Peña, president of Pretty Girls Sweat and a senior majoring in psychology, wrote in an email. “It started virtually during the spring 2021 semester as a way to come together as a community after facing the hardship of the pandemic, while still honoring the organization’s purpose and mission.”

Tables were adorned with white and gold plates, bouquets of flowers and accompanying candles to set the Parisian mood. Other Eiffel Tower decor, like photographs and miniature figures, embellished the room, and each table had framed photos of the E-Board members from the semester at their different events. This reminded guests of the purpose of Pink Brunch — a celebration of Pretty Girls Sweat’s accomplishments throughout the year.

The event began with introductions from the brunch’s co-hosts, Najalie Medina, a senior majoring in nursing, and Precious James, a sophomore at SUNY Oswego majoring in criminal justice. They welcomed the guests and encouraged them to fill out their brunch menus.

The co-hosts then introduced Karen A. Jones, the vice president for diversity, equity and inclusion and faculty advisor for the organization, to give a speech. She shared her insights into building a healthy lifestyle, offering advice for self-preservation and improvement by encouraging students to open a savings account, disengage with social media and live their lives to the fullest.

“Be flexible,” Jones said. “Life will be life, and plans will not always work out as you expect. So dare to continue knowing that you have the strength, the endurance and the fortitude to continue.”

Guests had a wide range of culinary selections, from croissant sandwiches and vanilla pancakes with fried chicken to tiramisu and cinnamon rolls. Food was catered by Tiff’s Treats, an independent business started by Tiffany Ajijola, the vice president of Pretty Girls Sweat and a senior majoring in biology. Inspired by her family and friends’ encouragement to pursue baking, Ajijola decided to begin her business.

“They loved it and kept telling me I should share it with more people,” Ajijola wrote in an email. “Eventually, I decided to take the leap and turn my passion into something bigger. My goal is to continue growing Tiff’s Treats into a strong local brand, expand my menu with even more unique treats, and eventually open a small bakery café all while pursuing my medical career.”

Conversation cards were placed around each table, containing questions aimed at sparking meaningful conversation among strangers. Questions ranged from “What is your unpopular opinion?” to “What is the nicest thing someone has done for you?”

Pink Brunch is Pretty Girls Sweat’s biggest event of the year and strives to excite guests. This year’s brunch steered away from its usual style and aimed for new heights with its theme.

“The process of coordinating Pink Brunch was definitely very demanding,” Madison Penn, co-events coordinator and a sophomore majoring in nursing, wrote in an email. “There were various components to think about such as decorations and food. Our Eboard decided on a Paris-themed event but I wanted to switch it up for this event. We usually incorporate a lot of pink and bright colors into our events but I wanted this one to give off a more elegant and mature vibe.”

Following easy conversation and mingling, guests were invited to play an interactive game. Two volunteers were called on stage and asked to list musical artists starting with A to Z, and the slowest to answer lost.

After the games was an award show, where awards were given to attendees, organizations and Pretty Girls Sweat members who played integral roles in events throughout the year. Ranging from Inclusive Leader and Biggest Inspiration to Muscle Mommy, each award highlighted the women that have shaped the organization.

“What makes this year’s Pink Brunch different is that we opened it up to both men and women for the first time, creating a more inclusive environment while still keeping the spotlight on honoring women’s achievements,” Ajijola wrote in an email. “It was a celebration for all to attend, but the awards remained focused on uplifting and recognizing the incredible women in our community.”

As the afternoon came to a close, the E-Board presented guests with a slideshow of memories and events from this year, as this marked Pretty Girls Sweat’s final event of the semester. The photos and videos were a heartwarming reminder of what the organization stands for and what they want audiences to remember after the event.

“We want audiences to leave feeling inspired, empowered, and reminded of the importance of celebrating women’s achievements,“ Ajijola wrote. “We hope everyone, regardless of gender, walks away understanding the power of community, recognition, and support in helping women continue to thrive and break barriers.”

Drinking culture is so prevalent in the lives of many young adults, especially those attending colleges with a large party scene. People drink, and this often leads to impulsive decisions, including hookups with strangers. Why do we feel the need to be under the influence to make a move on someone? And how do random hookups — under the influence — reveal truths about hookup culture today?

Alcohol suppresses our inhibition, so naturally, we feel more confident. Similarly, with cannabis, the relaxing effects bring many of us out of our shells and into a different state of consciousness where we are usually more relaxed. In this state, we protect ourselves from the fear of rejection.

Being under the influence gives us armor that coats our insecurities. However, this “armor” also poses new questions and problems. If we are masking ourselves, doesn’t that mean we are covering a part of our true self? And doesn’t this reveal a deeper insecurity of accepting rejection or having the courage to put ourselves out there? Hookups — especially with strangers — can reveal a deeper truth about the role that intimacy plays in modern love.

The fear of being called out or turned away steers many people away from making a move in the first place. And why wouldn’t it? It’s a scary thought. We need support from others, and when we use “liquid courage,” we are enabling ourselves to take the easy way out instead of facing the real problem — our self esteem.

Many young adults struggle with handling rejection, and combined with the rise of hookup culture, we compensate for this fear with alcohol or weed. When we ignore the deeper problem by placing on a bandaid with temporary solutions, we often negate the ability to emotionally develop as young adults. Hookup culture is shifting from casual relationships to ones with impaired consciousnesses.

For some, this may seem like a better option than facing the real beast: emotional intimacy. We may not feel ready to be vulnerable, and therefore reject any form of it in our lives by ways of external forces. Some hookups can lead to deeper connections, though not all have to, but the fact that they happen while intoxicated can make us question if we are trying to reject that connection in the first place. Rather than face reality, many of us would rather shrink away.

These feelings come from internal sources which are completely normal, but it is also reinforced through our social interactions. In the modern dating scene and especially on college campuses, it is normal to see a lack of emotional intimacy. Many of us have become accustomed to hookups in lieu of deep connections and a dependence on drugs to comfort ourselves in stressful situations. I think that this is a crucial time where we can reassess how we react in these situations, accept our fears and actively change our reactions to our anxious thoughts.

We started on our first course with some tasty appetizers. I had the pot sticker soup, a vegan delight made from a bok choy broth. The soup was filled with thinly shredded carrots, sliced mushrooms and cabbage, which gave a nostalgic feel and taste. Jared had the ramen noodle salad, a cold salad full of vegetables, sliced almonds and green onions. A coating of sesame oil dressing softened the noodles and gave the dish’s flavor palate an added depth. The appetizers were a light but very delicious start to our meal.

Next, we moved on to the second course. Jared got the Granny Smith apple panini, a sandwich that combined sweet and savory flavors. The chicken salad complemented the crispy bread and sweet juice of the thinly sliced apples. The warmth of the sandwich softened the gouda, making each bite cheesy and savory. He said it was a great balance of flavors and was very delightful to eat.

I had the bruschetta burrito, a fun take on traditional bruschetta. In a plain grilled wrap, my dish was full of powerful and tasty flavors. Each bite contained soft, warm chicken with an added crunch of diced tomatoes, shredded mozzarella and fresh greens. My favorite part, however, was the pesto aioli, a blend of creamy pesto and mayo, which brought instant flavor to the dish. It was so good that I had to confirm what it was on my way out so I remembered it for the future.

Our meal was not over yet. Restaurant Week at Alexander’s also includes a choice of dessert, including gluten-free mini New York-style cheesecake, assorted bagged cookies or an Oreo dirt pudding parfait. I opted for the cookies, and I was pleasantly surprised by their simple yet delicious flavors. I was given three different cookies: chocolate chip, peanut butter and sea salt caramel.

First, I tried the chocolate chip cookie, which delightfully blended salty and sweet. While it was one of the simpler options, it remains a beloved classic. The peanut butter cookie’s salt flakes and soft, buttery middle were just as satisfying. Lastly, the sea salt caramel cookie’s perfect mixture of sea salt flakes and caramel chunks mixed into the batter was a pleasant surprise. While the cookies were on the smaller end, they still proved to be equally delicious, and each one kept me wanting more.

Jared finished off with the Oreo dirt pudding parfait — just as creamy and delicious as it sounds. He said the layers of light cream, soft pudding and decadent chocolate complemented each other, evening out the textures and flavor in each bite, bringing a unique take on what many of us first think of when it comes to pudding.

Alexander’s Cafe is a Binghamton staple. Modifying classic meals with new and interesting varieties and flavors, there is sure to be something for everyone.

The Mandela Room featured a stage, photo stations for the night’s performances and tables decked out with lanterns and roses. Two emcees hosted the event, guiding the audience through performances, skits and fun games throughout the night.

“Chinascope is an organization on campus dedicated to bridging the gap between the international body of Chinese students and the Chinese-American community,” Preston Zheng, Chinascope’s president and a junior majoring in economics, wrote in an email. “We aim to create an inclusive space for anyone to join and immerse themselves in Chinese culture, as well as meet people of all backgrounds.”

The event featured performances from Paradox and MODA — two subgroups of dance troupe PARAMODA — and Illuminations, a Chinese cultural dance troupe from Cornell University.

Illuminations started the night off, dressed in outfits that combined traditional attire with dance costumes. Performers wore mesh hats, long sleeves and colorfully layered skirts, flowing with every move and enhancing their choreography. Their different outfits for each number showcased the transition from oceanlike and low, meditative dances to fiery, fast-paced solo performances.

HongYi Lin, one of Chinascope’s cultural chairs and a sophomore double-majoring in economics and cinema, explained that the process of planning this year’s Dragon Night was more intense than the rest, as it was a first for many of the club’s E-Board members. They have worked on coordinating performers, finalizing schedules, creating backdrops and more.

Following the first performance, Paradox came dressed to the theme, matching the event’s formal attire in white button-downs and black jackets. Using popular K-pop songs, the audience was mesmerized by their bold choreography and group formations. Their seamless song transitions blended modern moves with hip-hop.

In between the dances, audience members got a chance to enter a giveaway event offering Labubu dolls, a brand of popular figurines, as a prize. Members were asked to participate in a game of chance, as participants held up flags that determined if they moved on to the next round. This game was an exciting experience for attendees, immersing in the night’s experience.

MODA brought a unique vision to the stage as the third performance of the night. Their metallic outfits hypnotized the crowd as the performers flipped across the floor. The group danced as a cohesive unit in structured formations, amping up the audience with their energetic performance.

In between dance numbers, Chinascope also performed fun skits, which followed members of their E-Board engaging in a comedic story featuring ghosts, fights and parties.

The dances were later followed by a performance by Hong Zhang, a senior instructor in the Department of Asian and Asian American Studies and a Chinese opera singer. Her powerful yet delicate voice moved many attendees, allowing them to connect with the music and culture shared throughout the night.

After Zheng’s performance was the Hanfu show, which featured models dressed in a traditional style of colorful patterned robes tied with a contrasting band. As they made their way through the room, two singers accompanied the models with solo and duet performances, and music played through the rest of the show.

Chinascope is very active on campus, holding free events during the semester that highlight Chinese cultural milestones.

“In the past, Chinascope has hosted crafty and foody DIY events, celebrated big Chinese festivals like the Mid Autumn Festival, and held food socials,” Jessica Tu, one of Chinascope’s event coordinators and a sophomore majoring in biology, wrote in an email. “For the rest of the semester, we have a mix of cultural food events like ramen tasting, artistic DIYs like slime making and succulent painting, and social events like movie nights with snacks planned.”

“The events are both social and cultural, aiming to build community bonds and celebrate Chinese heritage,” she added. “We’re so excited that we have the opportunity to collaborate with four other cultural organizations, allowing us to merge our cultures and communities together!”

“As You Like It” follows the story of Orlando, a powerful duke’s son who is controlled by his cruel older brother, and Rosalind, the daughter of the exiled Duke Senior. The two quickly fall in love in the court of Duke Frederick but are later separated and banished to the Forest of Arden. In these magical woods, the two work to find each other while meeting exciting characters along the way.

Rehearsals for the production started quickly after winter break and followed a rigorous schedule consisting of table readings, pronunciation work and breakdowns of the text. The production highlighted what the actors could bring to the theater. Actors danced, sang and played instruments — adding a unique take to the classic piece.

“So I was interested in everybody’s sense of humor,” Rothe said. “And also, if they played an instrument or sang and brought anything — like what they brought personally to it. And so this piece has also been tailored around who they are — who the actors are — as humans, what their talents and gifts are.”

Though “As You Like It” was written centuries ago and the language is outdated, the themes in Shakespeare’s works are timeless. After escaping a patriarchal society, Rothe explained that the characters are opened to a new world of art and love, a theme that she wants to resonate with audiences.

“And the idea of a world where there’s not a lot of freedom, and you know, it’s very controlled,” Rothe said. “It’s very tightly controlled. And then they get banished to the forest. And in the forest, everyone gets to learn about who they are and fall in love with who they want to fall in love with. And it’s a world where they get to explore freedom and wholeness.”

This piece also brought together the cast and crew to create a fun and welcoming dynamic. Each individual’s expertise gave the process a collaborative aspect that combined all of the students’ hard work.

“I also think that everyone involved in the arts understands the level of time, effort, and dedication that goes into what we do,” wrote Kaitlyn Hennie, a senior majoring in theatre who starred as Rosalind. “There’s this misconception that arts majors have it easy, but in reality, there’s so much work behind the scenes. I think people in the arts recognize that and show up to support their peers whenever they can.”

The set’s decoration transformed Watters Theater into a wonderland, immersing the audience in the story. Lively characters in outrageously colorful and layered costumes kept the audience entertained as the plot unraveled.

Having this production on stage encourages the audience to take a look at the deeper messages of this performance. Above all the major themes in this chaotic production, audiences were left feeling positivity and love.

“And so I think that it’s important to see the show right now, because this world seems to be trying to push itself in a direction of negativity and hate where it should be love and support,” said Nicholas Parker, a senior double-majoring in theatre and English who starred as Orlando.

“As You Like It” is a performance made for everybody. Through its exciting plot and even more distinctive costumes and musical inclusions, this play is a break from the daily rush and a gateway into the magical world of theater.

“I don’t think many students at Binghamton see live theatre often while they’re here, and when they do, it’s refreshing for them,” Hennie wrote. “I think more people would appreciate it if they knew more about it.”

In the last season, for example, after a bad breakup, Lorelai decides to throw Rory an “Asian Night” party for her trip to Asia. Though the sentiment was in the right place, I found myself deeply disturbed by the event Lorelai puts together, essentially by mushing together every single Asian country. What surprised me most was the lack of understanding of the vast cultural differences between all of these countries in the continent — “Well, actually, believe it or not, but this is an exact replica of Japan, China, Vietnam, Cambodia, Hong Kong, Korea, and any other Asian countries that might have slipped my mind,” Lorelai says. “This is exactly what you would see in the other Asia.”

Though the party was meant to be an endearing gift to her upset daughter, the lack of perspective in this joke is only emblematic of and perpetuates the outdated sentiments that willfully ignorant Americans harbor. By including these small-minded jokes and plots in popular shows — and 2000s nostalgia — we are only reinstating these problematic norms and uneducated stereotypes in a new generation. Further, it should not be a challenge for creators and writers to leave this part out of the script, especially when the characters are supposed to be representative of average middle-class Americans. But their choice to leave this joke in — nevertheless, for a protagonist — points to the use of racist sentiments as a positive character-building tool and solidifies ignorance as somehow cute and, therefore, desirable.

Another sore spot in this show is the lack of POC characters. Throughout the whole series, the only regular characters of color are Michel, a concierge, and Lane, Rory’s best friend. Even though they are recurring characters, their stories were never fully developed. Michel was the only darker-skinned character, but his only defining trait became his “Frenchness” and attitude. His race never being mentioned isn’t inherently problematic, but the lack of other POC characters in the show makes his recurrence notable and suggests the show’s “colorblind” stance.

This “colorblind” stance clearly did not apply to Lane, the only prominent Asian character whose ethnicity was constantly written into the script. While Lane and her mother are both played by Japanese American actresses, Lane starts and ends in a highly stereotypical “Korean” or, broadly, “Asian,” manner on the show. It becomes a running joke throughout the show that Mrs. Kim is always setting her daughter up on dates with future Korean doctors — “I have to have a pre-hayride cup of tea with a future doctor. How do I look? Korean?” The show’s dependence on having their perception of the Kims’ culture be the butt of a joke only serves to reinforce the close-minded behavior in American culture.

The most disturbing part of Lane’s stereotypical character is how her goal in adolescence was centered around breaking away from her stereotypically strict Asian mother, having a “normal” or, in other words, the idealized white American life and becoming more like Rory. Lorelai is a laidback mother who lets Rory stay up, have boyfriends and go anywhere she wants — an American dream. Meanwhile, Lane is always having to try and fit into the norm, wearing secret outfits and creating schemes to hide her alternative-culture obsessions, or parts of herself, from her mother.

When talking about a boy she’s seeing, she debates her own relationship to her written identity: “Okay, the bottom line is that he wants me to call him back. But if I do that then he’s probably gonna ask me out on a date. And if we go out on a date then it could lead to another date, and then I’ll have to introduce him to my parents. And once I do that, they’re gonna like him. Because he’s Korean and he’s gonna be a doctor. And then once that happens, that’s it. It’ll be over. He’ll be hideous to me. Now I’m a Lou Reed gloomy.” The show writes her to be jealous of Rory and her circumstances, which in turn subtly perpetuates a lack of desirability for Lane’s situation and perceived culture.

While frustration, especially regarding parental relationships, is an understandable feeling for a teenager, having Lane, the only representative of Asian culture in the show, always complain about her “different” life is disheartening. Racial and cultural differences can be a topic discussed in the show, but it should not be painted as “abnormal.” Likewise, having Lorelai, the funny young mother, be so oblivious to any other culture except her own only serves to further the show’s ignorance as a lighthearted trope to passively consume. What are young non-white girls watching the show supposed to feel when they see Rory and Lane’s very different relationships with their mothers? Lane and her mom are both representations of an extremely cliche and outdated stereotype that does not serve any other purpose than glamorizing certain cultures while putting others down. Lorelai is especially a representation of normalizing ignorance and getting into a couple of jokes at the expense of other people. When we are watching, we do not always pick up on these details, but when we take a step back and watch critically, these problematic themes come to light.

I am not preaching hate onto this show, but it is time to acknowledge what ideals the show is really promoting. “Gilmore Girls” is a highlight of our American culture — it shows a perfect example of a mother-daughter relationship, but in the background looms many hidden messages that may be imitated in life. The popularity of this show, now on various streaming services, means that whatever we see in it becomes internalized as comforting, and for our younger generations, it is even more dangerous. If we keep watching the same horrible themes over and over again passively, we are only indoctrinating a new generation into the themes we are trying to escape. So, the next time you are watching any show, it would be wise to sit back and observe what is really being said under all the costumes and props.

Derin Aksoy is a freshman majoring in English and is a Pipe Dream Arts & Culture intern. 

Views expressed in the opinions pages represent the opinions of the columnists. The only piece that represents the view of the Pipe Dream Editorial Board is the staff editorial.

“Their goal was to create a space where women could prioritize their health and build self-confidence while fostering a supportive community,” wrote Tiffany Ajijola, the organization’s vice president and a senior majoring in biology, in an email. “Through their efforts, they successfully introduced the PGS initiative to Binghamton University, providing a space where students could focus on both their physical well-being and mental empowerment.”

This organization’s main focus is to foster healthy lifestyles, all while building a strong sense of community and friendship among its members.

“We strive to encourage and support women who are embarking on their journeys to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, no matter how they envision that to look like because we try to touch on more than just the physical aspect of being healthy,” Gianna Peña, the president and a senior majoring in psychology, wrote in an email. “On the Binghamton campus, our goal is to create a safe and motivational environment where women feel comfortable to join our workouts, open discussions, and overall sisterhood.”

Pretty Girls Sweat’s E-Board meets weekly to plan future events and opportunities. Meetings are also a way for members to connect — a central theme at the organization’s core. After getting through the event planning, members can find themselves discussing moments from their day, sharing worries and making jokes, Ajijola said.

“It’s a good mix of getting things done while strengthening our [connection] as a team,” she added. “My favorite part about the E-board meeting is that we always start with the quote of the day and a share, where each of us gets to open up about something personal. It’s a nice way to set the tone for the meeting and help us connect on a deeper level. At the end of the meeting we also share our highs and lows of the week, which gives everyone a chance to reflect and support each-other.”

Popular workshops and events include HIIT — high-intensity interval training — exercises, pilates, yoga and an obstacle course competition last semester called “Survival of the FITtest.” However, fitness is not the only way the organization gets active on campus. They’re also known for hosting their annual Pink Brunch, a tea party-themed event with performances from other student groups and awards to students, alumni and supporters.

The organization is also looking to broaden their horizons. Whether with different approaches, free samples or a simple educational pitch, Pretty Girls Sweat is ready to incorporate new ideas to continue growing. Peña emphasized the importance of creating a welcoming space for women.

“The thing I like to stress the most to prospective members is that you definitely don’t have to eat, sleep, and breathe fitness to be a part of our organization or come to our events,” Peña wrote. “All that matters is that you want to be around a community of like-minded women who want to work towards a healthy and happy life to not only support yourself, but support others as well. I would say we’re a very easy going group who welcomes in any and everyone. So whether you participate in all of our workouts or just one or two a semester, we’re always happy to have you join us.”

We started talking everyday and kept in contact even when we both started our first semesters of college. We called each other and texted “goodnight” despite our different time zones. It was sweet and comfortable, and very delusional. I got myself an international situationship, and I was lovin’ it.

The more we talked, the more I wished I could see him again. December rolled around, and when I went to visit my family with a layover in Paris, he ended up coming to visit me. I was in heaven — traveling the corniest city of love with a guy who traveled hours to come and see me. After Paris, I went to visit him again near his university. We spent a nice week together — very romantic!

Now, as I look back on the week of bliss that I had, traveling around and sightseeing with a nice boy beside me, I was impressed by how well we stayed in touch. Even though we were so far geographically, our relationship stayed close. And most of it came from where we talked in the first place: iMessage was out of the question (damn you, international numbers), and Whatsapp (who uses that?) seemed strange.

Today, it is culturally understood that communication apps are designated for certain purposes and gain stigmas. It is OK to message someone through Instagram because we can feel removed. But iMessage seems too personal. Snapchat is only for flings. These rules have different variations all over the globe, but essentially … the rules are fixed. For some, it may be weird to break from that norm and try something new. But really, who decides the rules in the first place?

The perfect segue between keeping in contact, sending a cute pic and making sure you are never left on “opened” was Snapchat. And if you are left hanging, then it is a clear answer to the state of your relationship. This aspect makes it easy to be reassured while you are getting to know each other. You could keep up a conversation, and it would not matter if you randomly sent a photo in the middle of it — it was socially acceptable in the Snapchat usage rules.

Usually, there is a big gap between how a relationship functions physically and virtually. When I saw my mystery beau again, however, there was no awkwardness because the way we had been communicated felt authentic enough. We were able to pick up where we left off like no time had passed. Communication is key, and through the right app, you can strengthen a bond and leave the anxiety behind.

So really, the start of this international European fling I had was dear old Snapchat. It made me realize how dependent I am on the technology of the modern world, and just how badly I would have fared 70 years ago. Modern dating brings such ease to staying in contact that new relationships can make it across oceans. But it also taught me to reassess the rules that we assign to social media. And I judged too quickly.

So remember, even if it feels a little cringy sometimes to use Snapchat, you never know what may come your way. Maybe the key to a new relationship starts by switching communication platforms. You might end up with a hot date in a foreign country — bon appétit.

Derin Aksoy, a freshman majoring in English, is a Pipe Dream Arts & Culture intern. 

Views expressed in the opinions pages represent the opinions of the columnists. The only piece that represents the view of the Pipe Dream Editorial Board is the staff editorial. 

Founded in the 2000s by three art-enthusiast women, it has brought joy and excitement to the new beginnings of the month and the new discoveries of local artists and spots to frequent.

Feb. 7 to March 1 at Praxis from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. (85 Court St.) 

Praxis, a gallery for emerging and experimentalist artists, has a new show, “Parable of the Talents,” featuring artists Melissa Schmitz, visual art by Abigail Cornelia and Nicole Paolillo, followed later by a poetry reading by Sharon Ball. This exhibition focuses and reflects on the literary work of Octavia Butler.

Feb. 7 To March 1 at Cooperative Gallery 213 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. (213 State St.)

This exhibit features the encapsulating works of photographer Bill Gorman, with his exhibit titled “Photography,” along with a tribute and memorial for photographer Geof Gould titled “Favorites.”

Feb. 7 to Feb. 28 at BCAC Artisan Gallery and BCAC Art Path Gallery from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. (223 State St.)

In “Fables of Reconstruction” Erik Lasky’s imagination and curiosity bleeds into his work. Offering a break from modern art, Lasky focuses mostly on realism and a limited palette. By taking human emotions and mixing it in with the art process, Lasky wants to bring the image to life, as the artist notes, “you will see it thick and thin, dissolved and sanded, my fingerprints, my dog’s hair and the creative motion of composing a picture rather than copying one.”

Jan. 3 to March 4 at Binghamton Photo from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. (32 Cedar St.)

Eric Yetter’s experimental exhibit, Expired II, toys with the notions of control and stability. Yetter’s mindspace allows him to think freely in his work and try things he may have not thought of before. Most of his pieces feature expired films and footage from old thrift or auction stores.

Feb. 1 to March 10 at The Discovery Center of the Southern Tier from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. (60 Morgan Road) 

For any LEGO enthusiast, an incredible opportunity comes to the local Binghamton area as artists come together to build detailed LEGO sculptures. Bringing together wonder and curiosity, this event, called “Brick by Brick: Lego Magic Creations, is sure to blow you away.

Feb. 8 to Feb. 28 at BCAC Artful Child Gallery from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. (223 State St.) 

Gatlin Bartholomay’s artwork, featuring various characters from pop culture, brings excitement to art from a young age. One of a handful of kids to have his work exhibited, Bartholomay uses his different artistic mediums to create his own original pieces.

Feb. 7 to Oct. 25 at Roberson Museum and Science Center from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. (30 Front St.) 

Featuring over two dozen talented artists, “Please Be Seated” revolves around showcasing the uniqueness of antique chairs to bring awareness to craftsmanship of our everyday necessities. According to the Roberson Museum website, the exhibit includes an original chair from Alonzo and Margaret Roberson’s dining set.

The Mandela Room was illuminated by colorful lights on the main stage and was transformed by fairy lights in the shape of the African continent. A full food and beverage table and pictures of the dance troupes and ASO’s E-Board were hung on the surrounding walls to decorate the space.

Jadesola Teriba, ASO’s president and a senior double-majoring in psychology and philosophy, politics and law, described the organization’s mission of celebrating African culture and heritage.

“As an organization dedicated to educating the campus community about the African Diaspora — exploring its social, cultural, and political dimensions — we are committed to celebrating and advancing our heritage,” Teriba wrote. “ASO tirelessly champions multiculturalism and African unity, driven by profound respect and deep admiration for our motherland. This event is just one of the many ways we showcase the multiculturalism of the African Diaspora.”

The theme, “Old School vs. New School,” was chosen to bring a nostalgic lens to the event while encouraging people to reflect on their own pasts. To reflect this, some troupes dressed in popular ’90s clothing and incorporated breakdancing into their routines.

Dance groups hailed all the way from SUNY Plattsburgh and SUNY New Paltz to compete with BU’s troupes. Similarly, while Culture Shock aims to highlight African dance, it prides itself on inclusion, seen through a performance from Quimbamba, a group established in 1970 to perform at the Latin American Student Union’s annual banquet that became independently chartered in 2013.

Culture Shock followed a knockout format, where judges would vote on which groups continued on. The event was created as a multidimensional arts showcase and has recently transformed into a dance competition.

The top three winners are celebrated, with the first-place team earning a $500 prize. And this year, there was a twist — attendees could also participate in the voting and decide which group would continue in the competition. From jailbreaks to classrooms, dances incorporated themes and plotlines to bring the audience along throughout the evening.

Each dance incorporated teamwork and skill to combine each dancer’s skills into a larger piece. Some performers backflipped on stage while others built human pyramids. With each new trick, the crowd exploded in applause for friends and strangers alike.

ASO’s vast network was displayed in their coordination with nearby SUNY schools and their regional dance troupes, bringing a diverse direction to the event. Fatoumata Barry, ASO’s activities coordinator and a sophomore double-majoring in Africana studies and philosophy, politics and law, shared the importance of representing a diverse array of African dances.

“What makes this event unique, however, is our recognition that African dance transcends the African continent and thrives in various regions of the African Diaspora,” Barry wrote. “This perspective enriches the celebration of African dance and highlights its global influence and diversity.”

Black Dance Repertoire, Quimbamba, Spicy Island Tings, MajorNoir, Collision and N’Fusion were the six dance troupes competing. Each featured hip-hop as a major part of their routines while also incorporating other dance styles like lyrical and bachata. Troupes also used modern and older pop songs which excited the crowd into singing along.

Two groups, SUNY Plattsburgh’s Spicy Island Tingz and SUNY New Paltz’s N’Fusion, were additions that many attendees loved. Incorporating the perspectives of other campuses created an encouraging environment that allowed dancers to share different talents and new ideas.

After the elimination rounds, the winners were finally announced. Spicy Island Tings placed first, with N’Fusion winning second and Black Dance Repertoire scoring third. The energy was supportive for all troupes —after the winners were announced, the teams congratulated one another.

“By providing artists an opportunity to showcase their craft and embody the organization’s mission of exploring social, cultural, and political dimensions of the African Diaspora, Culture Shock goes beyond a typical talent competition,” Teriba wrote. “It represents a strategic celebration of creativity, multiculturalism, and artistic expression that educates the campus community and honors the rich, diverse talents of its participants. The most rewarding aspect of Culture Shock is witnessing the collective effort of our entire team come to life — from my executive board’s strategic planning to our interns’ first experience managing a large-scale event, and especially the dance teams who poured their passion and dedication into perfecting performances they would ultimately showcase on stage.”

“Anything Goes” follows Reno Sweeney, a nightclub singer, and her friend Billy Crocker, a Wall Street worker, as they embark on a cruise to London. Meanwhile, an eclectic public enemy and villain, Moonface Martin, has snuck on board with some help to flee the country. With marriage proposals and fake disguises, the characters are excited for some entertainment from the other passengers. Billy eventually tries to pursue the love of his life, who is traveling to London, with Sweeney by his side.

Full of dance breaks and big musical numbers, the characters go through trials and tribulations and fight many disguised villains as the ship rattles on. Iafrate explained the process behind choosing a new musical each year and why they decided to put on “Anything Goes.”

“Every year when choosing the following year’s musical(s), we look at what musicals we’ve done in the recent past to determine what the current student body has missed out on,” Iafrate wrote in an email. “In this case, we found we were due for a traditional musical with strong dance elements and musical comedy jokes. We made a list of about a dozen musicals that would fulfill these elements (as well as our casting needs) and polled the student body to gauge their excitement over these titles. And ‘Anything Goes’ was a huge hit! So we decided to give it a shot.”

Each song played an important role in the development of the plot. Characters fought and yearned for their dreams and having musical numbers provided an emotional aspect to the performance. Along with costume changes and the occasional tap dancing, audiences were wooed by the ease that the actors’ performances brought on stage.

The electric energy of the musical arguably serves as a relieving break from the end-of-semester bustle. “Anything Goes” may be an older musical, as its debut performance was in 1934, but according to Jesse Findling, an undeclared freshman who played the character Moonface Martin, it brings a timeless kind of joy.

“With so much seriousness in today’s world, this show is a breath of fresh air, reminding us of the joy of live theater and the lighter side of life,” Findling wrote in an email. “Plus, the themes of love, identity, and defying social expectations still resonate today; it’s exciting to see how they play out on stage.”

According to Yanchak, the orchestrations used for the show were meant to mimic big bands of the 1920s and 30s. “Anything Goes” was one of the larger productions she has done, which provided a new perspective to running a show. It entailed working directly with students and coordinating the orchestra on stage, while also working with other parts of the crew, like management and scenic design.

“This is my second large pit orchestra,” Yanchak said. “Which I think is probably one of the most unique things about this particular piece, is that this is the first time that the orchestra is on stage with us, as with the cast, we sit on the top of the big ship that’s there, which is pretty cool.”

“Anything Goes” touched on themes of love and friendship and the extremes many will go to to attain their dreams. Each character was unique and exciting — giving the musical an alluring quality. Overall, the product on stage reflected the dedication and talent of every individual and gave many audience members a performance to remember.

“This show is so silly,” Iafrate wrote. “In my experience, Binghamton students take things quite seriously, especially as we’re approaching a pretty stressful part of the semester. When I’m feeling that way, I find it helps to seize opportunities for playfulness and fun — which is totally something this musical provides. The goofy escapism of this brand of musical theatre can be a chance to disengage from the problems of our lives and to experience a more carefree world where we’re able to laugh at problems with ease and joy. I think a lot of us could use a taste of that right now.”

Today, when we want to buy a new item, the first place we tend to look is on the internet, especially social media, but we are not alone. According to a study conducted by researchers at the Skema Business School, 79 percent of people surveyed have responded that they use the internet, specifically Instagram, to find information and opinions about products they have in mind for purchase.

Now in a broader sense, this doesn’t sound too bad. Usually, we can discern between obviously sponsored content created by mega influencers and the real recommendations on the internet we are looking for. However, a new wave of creators is also taking over the internet — micro-influencers. While they have a smaller following, they may prove to be more powerful than the big-name influencers we think of today. One study published by a group of researchers in the Journal of Advertising explored the effects of micro-influencers and concluded that when it comes to “hedonic” or pleasure-based products, like clothes, as opposed to “utilitarian” products, micro-influencers affect audience consumption more than mega celebrities.

Their research also shows that micro-influencers are seen to be more “authentic,” which makes consumers believe that they are giving us genuine advice — which is not always the case. The information that micro-influencers give may seem more relatable to viewers and more convincing, but at its core, it is still sponsored content. We must reckon with the fact that when we look for product opinions online, at least some of the information will be sponsored messages or videos from influencers, and some of the content we see is only posted to make money, not for actual recommendation — and we may not be able to tell.

Personally, I find myself frequently struggling with these issues on the internet. In my mind, I know that the content is sponsored, but the content creator seems honest, and therefore I am more inclined to believe them — it’s natural and dangerous.

The more videos we watch, the deeper we find ourselves surrounded by certain content, and we create what’s called an “echo chamber,” filled with the same type of news and opinions constantly spewing back at us. Research done through the Health Science Inquiry shows that the “Formation of these echo chambers [on the internet], and repeated exposures to the information can strengthen its perceived validity, making the damage severe and difficult to reverse.” The researchers also note that this is especially dangerous since the public often relies on social media to find health advice, nutrition information and diet plans, which are not always reliable, though they are often taken as fact and deter people from seeking help from professionals. So, in short, we are taking advice from people who are not qualified, which can lead people to make unhealthy food choices, create unhealthy body standards and more. That doesn’t sound like an “authentic” influencer to me.

This doesn’t mean you should completely stop listening to influencers on the internet. Trust me, I still seek their advice on what I should buy too. We are all subject to influence — it’s completely normal. This is just what I should have known a long time ago before I was taking advice from influencers who I believed were giving me real information — be careful who you get information from, especially about your health. Big and small influencers are all only striving to make themselves and their image more popular, marketable and profitable. They do not have your best interest in mind, and the next time you see a smaller brand promoting the hottest new thing, take a second to think, do they really mean what they are saying?

Derin Aksoy is a freshman majoring in English. 

Views expressed in the opinions pages represent the opinions of the columnists. The only piece that represents the view of the Pipe Dream Editorial Board is the staff editorial. 

The vaulted ceilings of the church, adorned with grand murals, reverberated the angelic echoes of songs performed in Italian, Spanish and Turkish. Translations provided with the hymns and songs described lyrics about love, admiration and comedy which captivated many audience members.

This event was hosted by the Southern Tier Singers’ Collective, founded in 2018 by William Culverhouse, the director of choral activities and an associate professor of music at BU. The collective consists of mainly of music educators from around northeast New York and Pennsylvania. Culverhouse explained that since their creation, the organization has worked with the Binghamton Philharmonic, Fifth House Ensemble, Momenta String Quartet and more.

They also collaborate with BU’s School of the Arts to foster connections with the professional musical world.

“Collaborating with professional-level musicians gives our students an experience of music-making that they cannot get with an all-student music ensemble,” Culverhouse wrote in an email. “For those that are contemplating pursuing music as a career, this provides an invaluable preview of professional musical life.”

As the concert progressed, the mixes of the Mediterranean styles became evident as the choir became accompanied by tambourines when certain songs switched, a harmonic blend of the different regions of the Mediterranean.

This performance also included working with artist and Palestinian, Jordanian and Canadian composer Shireen Abu-Khader to represent Arab voices for peace. Culverhouse mentioned how this collaboration became more significant after Oct. 7, 2023.

“Shireen and I sought to offer musical experiences representing Arab voices for peace, since these voices have been underrepresented in many current conversations about the situation,” Culverhouse wrote. “The commissioned work, Rumor Mill, to a poem by Palestinian-American poet Naomi Shihab Nye (who was just awarded the Wallace Stevens Lifetime Achievement Award for her poetry), is a particular example of this.”

The School of the Arts designs many opportunities to create exposure to art influences. Christopher Robbins, the school’s founding director, explained the presence and opportunities students have across different art installations, including Downtown Binghamton’s annual LUMA Festival, the HCS Center for Art and Counter Culture in Vestal and Spool Contemporary Art Space in Johnson City. Working with the collective is just one example of the range in which students can experiment with the arts.

“The arts are essential to how we understand culture and the world around us, even if people don’t always realize it,” Robbins wrote in an email. “They shape our perceptions of people, events, and ourselves. One key reason for establishing the School of the Arts was to foster collaboration and raise the visibility of the arts both on campus and in the community.”

Brendan Hennessey, an associate professor of romance languages and literatures, dove into a niche but relevant topic to society today, malaria in Italian cinema.

“Cinema, especially documentaries and newsreels, were a great way to promote clean, healthy lifestyles, but I noticed that there were a lot of illnesses depicted which I found interesting,” Hennessy wrote in an email. “Malaria was a huge problem in Italy at the time so I thought I’d look into it further.”

The main focus of the event was to understand the effect of Benito Mussolini’s fascist policies on every aspect of the Italian lifestyle, from health and physique to the major diseases striking Italy during the 20th century.

Hennessey’s audience listened as his presentation moved from understanding Mussolini’s effect on public health to critiques and analyses of Italian films, like the 1933’s “Camicia Nera,” also known as “Black Shirts” and 1938’s “The Last Enemy.”

Both films sought to paint Italy as a place of health and prosperity when in reality, it was quite the opposite. Exploring a brief overview of the history between 1922 and 1943, the presentation explored the truth behind the media’s portrayal.

“My presentation is really about how people can’t fake disease no matter how hard they try,” Hennessey wrote. “Fascism spent a lot of time portraying Italy as a healthy, productive place, even when many people were suffering from diseases like malaria and tuberculosis. You can’t just ignore scientific facts and pretend that diseases will go away on their own.”

Through Mussolini’s rule, the spread of diseases in Italy bled into the spread of Italian antisemitism, racism and eugenics to Nazi Germany and Adolf Hitler’s regime. Though the presentation’s topic may seem specific, it applied to more than just disease representation, exploring the political, economic and social ramifications that followed them. Hennessey added that the relation to present-day life lies in the presence of diseases and how we respond to them.

Wendy Wall, the institute’s director and an associate professor of history, described the importance of the speaker series events.

“They offer a wonderful opportunity to foster collegiality and unexpected discussions by bringing people together who wouldn’t otherwise see each other,” Wall wrote in an email. “Scientists often work in teams, but that’s rare in humanistic disciplines. It’s easy for people in these fields to spend all day in their office, seeing only students or people on their hall or floor. That usually means people in their department. When you get folks from different disciplines all talking about one project, intellectual magic can happen!”

In honor of Banned Books Week, the Q Center on Sept. 25 hosted “Queer-ies: Banned Books.” Students gathered in the center lounge’s comfortable bean bag chairs and discussed the history of banned books.

Banned Books Week started in 1982 as a time of observance for all of the books in the United States, which were, for the most part, unjustly banned. This observance was a time to create awareness of the number of books that were being banned and or challenged in libraries and classrooms across the United States.

Mansha Rahman, student manager of the Q Center and a junior double-majoring in art and design and Spanish, explained how many of these books are banned because they contain LGBTQ+ relationships, specific cultural traditions, sexual content and references to religion, especially if such religions are portrayed in a negative light.

An increasing number of books are being challenged within classrooms, and a quick Kahoot at the beginning of the event mentioned that as of Aug. 31, 2024, 1,128 books have been challenged in the United States this year.

The Q Center’s event aimed to educate and raise student awareness about the growing issue of banned books in the United States. From colorful couches and comfortable rugs that students sprawled on, the event speaker gave prompts to make students think about the world around them.

Some questions included, “What is the line between restricting age-appropriate content and censorship?” and “What can we learn from fiction featuring diverse characters?” Each question sparked a unique and reflective view from the audience. The more people shared, the more others chimed in. The environment created a safe sharing space — ideal for discussions like these.

The event ended with a look into the future. The conversation shifted from the current state of banned books to what can be changed going forward. Students began brainstorming ways they could alter the status quo and create the change they wanted to see in the future, especially for younger generations.

“Books are how most children are exposed to certain topics and areas of life that are not discussed in adulthood,” Rahman wrote in an email. “Books are children’s first exposure to the world, and we should always talk about ways we can expose people to the communities shunned in the media.”

Before the event ended, attendees were handed a list of recently banned or challenged books. Most were targeted to a younger audience, including coming-of-age stories like “The Song of Achilles” by Madeline Miller and “They Both Die at the End” by Adam Silvera. Most of these books were written for queer audiences and written by or for the BIPOC community.

“I believe we should have these events, not just for the people at the Q Center but all over campus,” Rahman wrote. “Intersectionality is such an underrepresented portion of the queer community that I don’t think we as a student body care enough about. I don’t see enough cultural organizations show a willingness to be educated about these types of issues, which makes it even more important to keep having events like these!”