Issue 9 Volume 2

Spring 2024
REVIVAL

Letter From the Editor
As I reflect on my time as Editor-in-Chief of “Revival,” it’s hard
to believe that this chapter has come to a close. Yet, among
the bittersweet emotions, I couldn’t be more grateful for the
incredible team that has stood by my side throughout this journey.
From the talented writers to the visionary designers and digital
crew, each member has played a huge role in bringing “Revival” to
life.
First and foremost, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to
Caroline Karrh, our exceptional Managing Editor. Her unwavering
dedication and keen editorial insight has been crucial in shaping
the vision of our magazine. To Sarah Mitchell and Meagan Riordan,
along with the design team, your creativity knows no bounds, and
it has been an absolute privilege to witness your creativity breathe
new life into every page of “Revival.”
A special shoutout is also due to Beth Wheeler, who is also
a graduating senior, and the digital team for their tireless efforts
in expanding our online presence and ensuring that our digital
platform remains as captivating as our print edition. Behind the
scenes, to all my editors and contributors, your passion and
commitment has been the driving force behind “Revival’s”
success, and I am endlessly grateful for your contributions.
“Revival” is a magazine dedicated to the art of resurrecting forgotten design and photographic
techniques while breathing new life into contemporary perspectives. In an era saturated with fleeting
trends and disposable aesthetics, “Revival” boldly embraces rediscovery and rejuvenation inviting readers
on a journey through time and tradition.
At the heart of “Revival” lies a passionate commitment to uncovering the beauty and relevance
of antique methods. From the intricate craftsmanship of vintage typography to the elegance of film
photography, this issue of the magazine celebrates the enduring appeal of creativity that stands the test of
time. Through thoughtful storytelling, interviews with influential women, and stunning visual showcases,
“Revival” invites readers to immerse themselves in the rich combination of what inspired our team to draw
upon the past to inform their creative endeavors in the present.
But “Revival” is more than just a homage to bygone eras—it’s a platform for innovation and
progress. I began to recognize that “Revival” is not merely about nostalgia, but also about evolution.
The magazine explores how traditional techniques can be reimagined and revitalized for contemporary
contexts.
Whether it’s integrating analogue photography into digital workflows or blending design with
cutting-edge technology, “Revival” champions the idea that the old and the new can harmoniously coexist,
enriching each other in the process.
“Revival” challenges readers to reconsider their perceptions of progress and innovation. By
highlighting the intrinsic value of tradition and heritage in a rapidly changing world, the magazine inspires
a newfound appreciation for the timeless artistry that lies at the intersection of past, present, and future.
In essence, “Revival” is more than just a magazine—it’s a manifesto for reclaiming the past,
reimagining the present, and reshaping the future. With this issue, we challenge you to reconsider
perceptions of progress and innovation where the true essence of revival is found in the transformative
power of creativity and imagination.
Modeled by Jamie Breault, Emilia Oblites
and Shelby Brightwell
Alice Spring 2024 2

Directors
Meet
The
Team
Creative Director
Sarah Smith
Digital Director
Beth Wheeler
Managing Editor
Caroline Karrh
Writing Editors
Fashion Editor
Gabrielle Gunter
Entertainment Editor
Emily Crousore
Beauty Editor
Grace Owens
Features Editor
Leslie Klein
Food & Health Editor
Maggie Esnard
Lifestyle Editor
Elena Giorgi
3 alice.ua.edu

Creative Editors
Design Editor
Sarah Mitchell
Assistant Design
Editor
Meagan Riordan
Assistant Photo
Editor
Josha Charlery
Photo Editor
Jennifer Stroud
Digital Editors
Videography Editor
Annie Jicka
Writing
Lisé Badeaux
Haley Morgan
Ashlynne Suder
Sara Salazar
Abby Cope
Chloe Mackey
Emilee Boster
Hannah Blevins
Melanie Bumpus
Kendall Dillon
Brenna Bolek
Ashley Berry
Marketing
Editor
Morinsola Kukoyi
Dani Russeau
Anna Punswick
Colette Ingle
Valentina Puelba
Alana Chavez
Gabby Haynes
Kinsey Williams
Madeline Schley
Catherine
O’Halloran
Anna Grace King
Leigh Baldwin
Jane Blissett
Contributors
Design
Isabelle Williams
Ally Engleman
Minnie Ruzycki
Dania Botello
Caroline Prince
Social Media
Editor
Addie McCrary
Photography
Emma Mae Burtnett
Caroline Simmons
Hannah Grace
Mayfield
Sophie Priore
Isabelle Carrozza
Alisha Power
Emily Waugh
Madelyn Barr
Alyssa Fuller
Web Editor
Perri Larkin
Digital
Emma Cate Dailey
Grace Worley
Madison Brainerd
Olivia Kiricoples
Alice Spring 2024 4

BEAUTY
FINDING YOUR SIGNATURE SCENT
HOW TO NAIL YOUR LOOK
ALL THE WORLD’S A STAGE
ARAB BEAUTY
BREAKOUT BREAKTHROUGHS
7
9
11
13
15
19
FASHION
IT’S A “FIBE”
COSPLAY 101
ELETRIC THREADS
OFFERING YOUR SUNDAY BEST
WHEN TO THROW IN THE TOWEL
21
23
27
29
31
33
LIFESTYLE
WORDS FULL OF WISDOM
EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW
TO RUN A MARATHON
HOW CONSUMERISM IS
CONSUMING US
CONFESSION OF A SHOPAHOLIC
GIRLS’ NIGHT OUT
37
39
41
43
47
49
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51
53
55
59
61
63
ENTERTAINMENT
2024 THE PLOT
VOICES OF THE FUTURE
WHAT 2000S ROM-COM ARE YOU?
FIFTEEN SECONDS OF FAME
PODCASTS
67
69
71
73
77
79
FOOD & HEALTH
SOCIAL MEDIA’S
CULINARY REVOLUTION
SPRING! SPRANG! SPRING... CLEANING?
BUILDING YOUR
RELATIONSHIP WITH YOU
TUSCALOOSA EATS
BEYOND THE BITE
81
83
85
87
91
FEATURES
CAR MAINTENANCE FOR GIRLS
TIPS AND TRICKS FOR NETWORKING
GROWTH OF AI
CRIMSON CLUES
Alice Spring 2024 6

E
U
Y
7 alice.ua.edu

FINDING YOUR SIGNATURE SCENT:
A Beginner’s Guide to the Art of Perfume
HOW TO NAIL YOUR LOOK:
Tradition and Innovation in Trendy Nails
ALL THE WORLD’S A STAGE
ARAB BEAUTY:
The Trendsetters of the Beauty Industry
BREAKOUT BREAKTHROUGHS:
Navigating Seasonal Skin

FINDING YOUR SIGNATURE SCENT:
A Beginner’s Guide to the Art of Perfume
By Grace Owens
The modern word for perfume comes
from the Latin words “per” and “fumus,”
meaning “through smoke.” The first form
of perfume was incense, which was used by the
Mesopotamians about 4,000 years ago. These
people burned a variety of wood products, like
frankincense and myrrh, during their religious
ceremonies.
The Ancient Greeks are believed to be
the first people who used perfume in the modern
sense of the word. They boiled flower petals, spices
and herbs and infused the materials into olive oil.
These scents were extremely varied and used
ingredients readily available to them, such as ginger,
sandalwood, vanilla, oleander, jasmine and lavender.
Before the Renaissance, perfume was in use
all around the world, but the French transformed
it into both an art and a booming industry. The
town of Grasse is still known as a major hub of the
perfume industry today, coming a long way from its
humble beginning as a town known for its leather
gloves. The people of Grasse used perfume out of
necessity, harvesting the wild-growing lavender,
roses and jasmine from the countryside and using
the scents to mask the animalistic scent found in the
leather gloves.
Perfume soon took the country by storm,
with the court of Louis XV becoming known as “la
cour parfumee” or the perfumed court.
Fragrances most used during that time were
“violet, rose, jasmine, musk, patchouli and tonka,”
says Cheryl Krueger, an Associate Professor of
French at the University of Virginia. Many of those
notes are still used today, even though “the way they
are blended with other notes has changed, [and
we] wear them differently at different times,” says
Krueger.
Perfume trends, just like in any other beauty
industry, have changed drastically over the years.
Fragrances often fit the “look and vibe of a given
era,” says Krueger.
Today, perfume is becoming increasingly
experimental, and it can be a bit daunting to delve
into, as many people’s only experience with perfume
is their grandmother’s Chanel No.5 or their mother’s
Red Door.
Luckily, Alice has compiled everything
readers need to know about dipping a toe
into fragrance and has compiled some great
recommendations for every nose’s liking.
9 alice.ua.edu

Most fragrances today are divided into top,
middle and base notes. These notes are separated
depending on how well they linger after the initial
application. Top notes, also known as headnotes,
make up a fragrance’s first layer and typically last
for around fifteen minutes before dissipating. These
notes are usually lighter and more delicate than
middle or base notes and are typically made up of
bright citrus or fragile floral scents.
Middle notes, or heart notes, are revealed
as the top notes fade away. Heart notes are more
complicated than top notes and usually remain for
the full life of the perfume. They are typically more
robust than top notes, but lighter than base notes.
They are often made up of scents like stronger
florals such as jasmine and ylang-ylang or earthy
notes like cardamom and peppercorn, according to
Niche Story Perfume, a perfume retailer based in
Germany.
Base notes are the last notes to appear on
the skin, and they also last for the full life of the
perfume, often lingering on the skin well after the
top and middle notes have disappeared. These
notes make a lasting impression on the nose and
are often made up of headier scents like amber or
sandalwood.
Many popular notes, like marshmallow or
tuberose, are divided into larger scent categories.
These categories range from punchy citrus scents,
like mandarin orange and lemon balm, to soft and
sweeter gourmands, which include marshmallow
and dark chocolate, to classic musky scents, like
amber and leather. For whichever scent profile one
prefers, we’ve compiled a collection of perfumes,
ranging from classic and sophisticated to fun and
out-there, that are bound to become a signature
scent.
“I wanted something
that made people
think of me whenever
they smelled it,”
says Julia Kirkland, a junior kinesiology student at
UA. “My favorite perfumes make me feel clean and
put together when I wear them every day.”
Kirkland’s favorite perfumes are Philosophy’s
“Amazing Grace” and Estee Lauder’s “Beautiful
Magnolia,” which both have top notes of florals and
musk, with deep base notes of rose. Both these
fragrances are youthful and feminine, with a touch
of playfulness from the sweet, spicy citrus notes in
both.
If the wearer is hunting something a bit
deeper and sweeter, Prada’s “Candy Night” is a
sweet, sultry gourmand, filled with spicy top notes
of bitter orange that dries down to a base of sweet
chocolate and vanilla.
“I love sweet scents, especially Ariana
Grande’s ‘Cloud’,” says UA junior theatre major Katie
Harmon, “I think it’s very fun and good for everyday
wear.”
Grande’s “Cloud” is filled with sweet notes
like whipped cream, praline and coconut, but
balances all the sweetness out with floral and
woody notes as well, making this the perfect scent
for someone seeking a perfume that is exciting and
youthful.
If one is looking for something a bit more
sophisticated and warmer, Dior’s “Ambre Nuit”
might be perfect. This fragrance is simple, with
only notes of amber and Turkish rose, but makes a
lasting impression.
From sweet gourmands to dainty florals and
bold fruit scents, whatever scents a perfume-wearer
choose should match their personality and show it
off to others. These perfumes, and many others, are
sure to make a lasting impression on anyone and
might just make the wearer a bit more memorable.
Photos by Josha Charlery
Design by Natalie Adams
Alice Spring 2024 10

HOW TO
NAIL YOUR
LOOK
Tradition and Innovation in Trendy Nails
By Ashley Clemente
In recent years, the fashion world has seen a
push towards reimagining old looks. Not only do
early 90s and Y2K pieces appeal to the fashion
community, but specific styles and trends that were
popular in the past are reappearing in pop culture.
This is no different in the world of nail trends.
Manicures are not a new or uncommon
experience. Women have been maintaining and
coloring their nails since the early 3000s BC. From
dye, to natural creams and lotions, to paint, the appeal
of a nice manicure has remained a powerful tool
for femininity. Because of this, nail technology has
evolved rapidly, and with it the desire for stylish and
fun looks.
In the 90s the classic French tip could be
seen on hands across the country. Neon, animal
print, multicolored and glitter were all the rage. These
patterns and styles on stiletto shapes established a
funky and memorable look for the decade. Often, with
the recent revamp of Y2K looks, the motif of bright
colors and fun designs is perceived as reminiscent of
the 2000s.
In the 2000s, the French tip continued to
dominate, but shaping shifted to shorter, more square
nails. Women began to tone the look down with solid
colors and simple designs such as flowers or gems.
Current Y2K trends are geared more toward the
overall vibe of the 2000s, with the understanding that
maximalism was a common theme at the time.
The 2020s have been characterized by trends
like gems and charms, almond shapes, chrome, fun
colors and extremely artistic styles.
Shelby Reece, a licensed nail tech in
Tuscaloosa, @southernpolisher on Instagram, says,
“My favorite designs have to be ones with charms,
jewels or pearls. I love the 3D effect on nails.”
Nail techs like Reece have been able
to express their creativity and artistic skill with
these types of designs, creating beautiful pieces
of artwork on a very small canvas. Chrome and
French tips are still widely popular, and the
11 alice.ua.edu
prediction is that the two will remain dominant in the
nail world.
More recent years’ looks feature press-on
nails that are sold in stores or by nail artists who can
personalize the design for the individual wearer.
Lauren Sullivan, a senior at The University of
Alabama, says “I don’t always have the time to go get
my nails done, and having press-ons as an alternative
is amazing because I can put them on and still feel
confident and like I am looking my best.”
The movement of trends is cyclical, forever
rotating old styles and combining them with new.
Nail looks are no different. Some trends are so widely
popular, they have never declined in popularity. These
include French tips and various shapes and lengths
like almond, square, stiletto, coffin and short or long
nails. Other trends are short-lived and perhaps even
forgotten. Remember Crackle, the polish that would
break up as it dried? It was a very short-lived trend in
the 2000s, but social media influencers and nail-artenthusiasts
alike are keeping an eye out for its return.
Similarly, styles like half-moon, which
somewhat akin to a reverse French tip, are being
repopularized by industry leaders. Shelby Reece
mentioned, “Duck nails were popular in the early
2000’s and are starting to have a pretty controversial
comeback. One trend I would love to see again is

water-marble designs. I love the creativity that
goes into that process.” The best thing about all
of this is the possibility for combining
new and old trends to create a nail
look that is reminiscent of old looks
but matches the current situation or
style.
In order to keep up with
current trends while also staying true
to personal style, here are a few tips
that might help to narrow down the
decision. If wearers frequent darker
colors and prefer an edgier style, try
a coffin shape with a maroon or deep
purple ombre color. For something
a bit more elevated, a French tip
with a black or silver chrome instead
of white would be a great choice.
Conversely, for the cottage-core fans,
are almond shape- long or short- is a
great way to softwen the look.
“I love a long, square nail
with a fun color like emerald green
or orange. I love that I can choose
a color based on my mood and my experiences
each week,” says Erin Hall, a senior at UA. Some
popular colors that some might like to try are any
pastels, especially a soft pink or a warm brown.
Try an ombre French tip and add a little
glitter for some extravagance. For people who
like a bold, unique look, spice things up with an
animal print like cheetah or tortoise shell. Another
all-time favorite is a bright red, long stiletto. Softer
looks might include more muted or neutral colors.
For a shorter, more typically practical nail either
for work or just for preference, try a short almond
or square shape.
The great thing about nails? Very few
trends or colors ever truly go out of style. Wearers
should always choose designs and colors that
make them feel the most confident and the
most themselves. Freedom of expression and
individuality are extremely important factors of the
human experience, and that translates to what is
chosen for any nail look.
Try some new look, see what aspects feel
right, and customize the look based on which
ones are favorites. All nails are great nails, and all
nail styles are perfect.
Photos by Isabelle Carrozza
Design by Sarah Smith
Modeled by Danielle DeFonce
Alice Spring 2024 12

ALL THE WORLD’S A STAGE
By Ashley Berry
In the late 16th and early 17th centuries,
Shakespearean theatre nurtured a strong link
to The Church, excluding women from the
opportunity of acting in some of Shakespeare’s most
famous productions. If the play included a female
role, men donned skirts, wore wigs and applied
makeup so as not to let the story suffer. These skirts
often dragged on the floor, introducing the word and
concept of drag to the world.
Oppressing women from acting and
performing, however, is no longer the motive of drag.
Today’s drag has pushed the envelope of gender
roles, reinventing what it means to be both feminine
and masculine. Drag performance has given many a
sense of empowerment, resilience and community,
playing an important role in the LGBTQIA+ movement.
One of Shakespeare’s famous quotes is,
“All the worlds a stage, and all the men and women
merely players.” Perhaps Shakespeare considered
life to be a series of roles where one passes through
different stages and plays the part that is expected of
them at that point in time, or perhaps he envisioned
a world where one can transform into what it is they
desire in life.
Drag performers undergo their own
transformation as they prepare their minds and
bodies to perform. One Birmingham queen describes
her makeover process as a production in itself.
“It’s become a very soothing process for me,”
says Imberli. “I really enjoy watching myself slowly
transform into Imberli, one step at a time.” Imberli is a
#DREAMCAST member at Al’s On 7th in Birmingham,
Alabama, and says her makeup, hair and body
transformation can take up to two hours.
A quick Google search will provide countless
guides to the “perfect” drag makeup look, but the
truth is, there is no such thing. Many drag artists will
say they strive to make their eyes pop with dramatic
eyeshadow and false eyelashes or spend hours
perfecting their contour and choosing the perfect
lipstick shade. Every look is different and unique to
each artist, but the power of makeup will remain
the same. Makeup allows these performers to
become their personas, inspiring the world with their
confidence and defining their separate versions of
beauty one brush stroke at a time.
Since the premiere of “RuPaul’s Drag Race”
in 2009, drag queens have been making a name for
themselves in the beauty industry. The hit reality
show allowed these performers to showcase their
13 alice.ua.edu

talents on air and, win or lose, many grew successful
makeup brands after their season’s conclusion.
As a top-three finisher in season eight of
the show, KimChi is known for her elaborate animeinspired
makeup and even broke a barrier as the first
Korean-American drag queen to appear on American
television. She now owns KimChi Chic Beauty, a brand
she launched in 2016 after the positive attention she
received from the show. KimChi says she believes
the face is a canvas to create art, and with the right
makeup, anyone can feel invincible and confident.
Other examples are season seven and eight
queens Bob The Drag Queen and Trixie Mattel. Bob
The Drag Queen won the title of “America’s Next Drag
Superstar” in season eight of “RuPaul’s Drag Race”
and launched BOMO Beauty with fellow Drag Race
queen Monet X Change. The two released the Pretty/
Funny eyeshadow palette together, and both say
they took inspiration from fellow Drag Queen-owned
brands, including KimChi Chic Beauty.
The season three winner of “RuPaul’s
Drag Race All Stars,” Trixie Mattel, launched Trixie
Cosmetics in 2019, striving to create products that
celebrate a heightened sense of femininity. Trixie’s
website says she is committed to providing makeup
that will make everyone feel like a legend, icon and
star.
A few decades ago, “RuPaul’s Drag Race”
would have never aired. The world was at a
standstill with the LQBTQIA+ community, refusing
to understand the feelings of an entire population.
It’s because of the work of LGBTQIA+ activists, many
of whom are drag performers today, that the world
is more knowledgeable and accepting of this vast
community.
Drag artists are of varying sexual orientations
and gender identities, and Icon Tuscaloosa performer
Olivia Giselle is open about the struggles she faced
while coming out as transgender in 2021.
“Growing up, I didn’t have the emotional
support I felt like I needed as a queer human being,”
Giselle says. “I felt like the world was against me, but
drag allowed me to create a world for myself that only
love could penetrate.”
Giselle attributes much of her confidence
to the art of drag makeup. She says the makeup
process allows her to dictate how she wants to look,
giving her an element of control she feels she lacked
growing up. For Giselle, her makeup sets the mood
for how she wants to perform—but more importantly,
Giselle says, at the end of the day, she has learned
to embrace her flaws and love herself beyond the
makeup.
Alabama has recently joined the list of states
attempting to limit drag shows. By proposing various
bills, states are banning drag artists from performing
in certain public spaces.
“It’s fear,” says Stella Mann. “A fear of
authenticity or something that isn’t considered
normal.”
Mann is a drag artist from Missouri, and she
says drag allowed her to discover who she truly
is. From self-conscious and quiet to confident and
unapologetically herself, Mann’s wish is for society to
understand that the only motive a drag queen has is
to spread love.
Imberli, Olivia Giselle and Stella Mann may
never meet; they may never cross paths, but they
are each members of a community fighting against
efforts to limit the freedom of expression of drag
performers everywhere. Each of these queens join
with drag artists around the world to spread the joy of
performance and self-love while challenging societal
norms. So, maybe the world is a stage, and if it is, may
each person feel proud of the role they played as they
take their final bow and the curtains close.
Photos by Caroline Simmons
Design by Natalie Adams
Modeled by Olivia Giselle
Alice Spring 2024 14

Arab
Beauty
The Trendsetters of the Beauty Industry
By Jane Blissett
As trends fall in and out of style, one culture
has constantly been on the forefront of
timeless style and beauty. The beauty
trends in which society participates in
are often inspired by Arab culture, though
many may not realize it. Aspects of current day
makeup routines that millions of people around the
world consider staples and steps they could not
live without can all be drawn back to Arab women’s
daily rituals. With April celebrated as Arab Heritage
Month, it’s time to give credit where credit is due, or
overdue, and become in a culture that has already
given so much of itself to the beauty community.
The University of Alabama’s Director of
Arabic Program, Safa Elnaili, says that as an Arab
woman, this month is very important.
“It means celebrating my identity as an Arab
woman, sharing my cultural heritage with fellow
Westerners and correcting misconceptions and
stereotypes about Arabs,” says Elnaili.
To celebrate Arab Heritage month, here are
some trends to try out and enjoy, and some Arab
owned brands to support.
Long-Lasting Foundation and Skin Care
With high temperatures in the Middle East,
many Arab women find it very important to use
products that will not melt from their faces and
stay put throughout the day. They also look for
products that will protect themselves from the
15 alice.ua.edu

harsh sun. A myriad of skincare products, such
as toners, cleansers, moisturizers and anti-ageing
serums can all trace their roots back to the Middle
East. With temperatures rising to 120 degrees in this
region,products that can withstand all types of humid
and hot weather are essential.
One brand with products built for such intense
heat is Shiffa Beauty. Its founder, Dr. Lamees Hamdan,
wanted to create a line of skin care that was highly
scientific yet simple. She wanted to craft products
that work for herself and other women, with benefits
rolled into one bottle. One of the many products she
perfected was the Emerald Clarifying Fail Oil, which
prevents skin from getting oily and keeps makeup
intact on the skin for longer periods of time.
Olive oil is another item that many Arab
women use to keep their skin soft and moisturized.
Elnaili says she uses olive oil as a natural skin product,
and many Arab women try using as many natural and
organic products as possible. Olive oil is a natural
moisturizer and gives relief to any sun damage the
skin may have.
UA Arabic Professor Naima Bary says argan oil
is an essential product she uses. Argan oil is a natural
substance that consists of the nuts from the Argan
tree.
“Argan oil has been used for centuries to
moisturize and nourish the hair and skin, and is still
widely used today,” says Bary.
Bold Eye Makeup
In Arab nations, many women wear different
types of head coverings, some only showcasing their
eyes. In Arab culture, makeup is extremely respected
due to the detailed nature and skill behind the craft,
especially intense eye makeup. To accentuate the
eyes, many women have chosen to sport colorful
and bold eye shadow and eye makeup to display their
personality. They tend to use neutral colors, such as
black or brown, but pair them with shimmery glitters
or metallics to make their eyes pop.
Peyton Weaver, an account executive at Sol Comms,
says, “Bolder makeup is on the rise” and will be a
rising trend in the near future.
Huda Beauty is one of the fastest growing and
biggest names in the beauty industry. Founded by
an Arab women named Huda Kattan, Huda Beauty is
grounded in the principles of sharing information and
practices that Huda learned from her upbringing. The
brand has many different eye shadow pallets, ranging
from dark and neutral colors, to multicolored, sparkly
and bright shadows.
Another staple of eye-makeup for many Arab
women is winged eyeliner. Wearing winged eyeliner
in the Middle East dates back thousands of years and
is now a tool used for women to express themselves.
These wings are normally sharp and bold, bringing
out the unique eyeshadows with which they are
paired.
Hindash is an Arab brand that specializes in
eyeliners, for wings of all types, whether classic or
daring. Hindash was founded by celebrity makeup
artist Mohammed Hindash. He wanted to create a
product designed to draw ever-iconic eyeliner wings
with precision. Thus he designed the Heroline ultrablack
precision eyeliner.
Halal Beauty and Products
Without any previous knowledge on what halal
is, shoppers may be reaching towards halal products
at Sephora without even knowing it. Halal, meaning
lawful in Arabic, is defined as products or items that
comply with Islamic dietary laws or ethical standards.
When applied to cosmetics, halal products
must follow Islamic law, by sourcing ingredients
cleanly and ethically. In turn, these products are
often cruelty-free and contain no harsh chemicals.
Often, halal products are also vegan. Even if products
aren’t halal or vegan, organic and natural products
and ingredients are still preferred among the Arab
community. Elnaili says she uses lemon, sugar and
yogurt as beauty supplements for her skin and hair.
786 Cosmetics is an innovative halal and Arab
brand that’s aim is designing new products to allow
Islamic people the ability to follow halal more closely.
Founders Ibrahim Ali and Iqra Isphahani found a lack
of halal products on the market that boasted quality
performance. In the past, many Arab women have had
a hard time finding nail polish and nail care that can
suit their lifestyle and halal rituals, which is why 786
Cosmetics developed a halal nail polish that is also
Alice Spring 2024 16

“In Arab culture, makeup is extremely
respected due to the detailed nature
and skill behind the craft.”
vegan and eco-friendly. 786 Cosmetics has over 70
shades of nail polish to choose from, and colors range
from everyday colors to bright and bold polishes.
Weaver says that halal and vegan brands are not as
common in the beauty industry, so it is important to
uplift them.
Another brand nailing halal products is Inika
Organic. The brand is committed to using non-toxic
ingredients and upholding its halal and vegan values.
Their products include skin care, setting powder,
mascara, eyeliner, primer, foundation, bronzer,
concealer and more. Arab beauty practices have been
so inspiring that even non-Arab brands are stepping
into the halal space and making products everyone
can use.
Bright Lip
With head coverings that mask many women’s
hair in Arab cultures, many op to use color on their
lips, and favor wearing a bright and colorful lip. This is
another way of expression that allows women to spice
up their everyday look, and has a large influence over
western cultures as well. Makeup in Arab culture is
known for its vibrant and unique colors, such as jewel
tones, as well as accentuating the eyes by matching
the shades to the lips.
Bassam Fattouh is a brand that creates lip
sticks for any look wearers are wanting to achieve.
There’s glossy, matte, moist, semi-matte and ultramatte
lip sticks, ranging from a classic red to a neon
green. They even have a line of ultra-trendy lip tints,
so wearers can still rock a fun lip color but reapplying
isn’t necessary. These lip formulas are long lasting,
and meant to withstand everyday tasks.
Thick and Clean Eyebrows
In Middle Eastern and Arab Culture, the
practice of threading and meticulous brow care has
always been considered essential. While brow trends
have come and gone, and thin and thick brows have
gone from trendy to not-so-trendy, maintaining natural
and thick eyebrows has been consistent in the Middle
East- and has been for years. Keeping eyebrows clean
and bold emphasizes the eyes and demonstrates the
culture’s commitment to detail and perfectionism.
Mina Al Sheikhly’s brow products allow
wearers to embrace their natural brow, while also
giving the effect fuller and thicker brows. It is a tinted
gel easily slid through the brows, and is very simple to
use. It’s also cruelty and harsh chemical free, which is
always a plus.
Henna
Many people have gone on vacation and had
some sort of henna done. Henna in Arab culture hold
special meaning and is painted on for special events
such as weddings or festivals. It’s much more intense
in Arab tradition, with women painting their entire
arms and legs full of designs. Henna dates back to
9,000 years ago and became popular because for
how creative wearers and artists can be with it. The
detail and intricate patterns used in henna designs
represents the intense detail that is encompassed in
Arab culture. Henna is made with simple ingredients,
and is easy to make, too.
Elnaili says henna is extremely important to
Arab culture, and one way to celebrate Arab Heritage
month is by, “promoting natural and organic products
such as henna.”
Henna trends are growing so much that new
products are evolving, according to Elnaili. There’s
now colorful, black and even glow in the dark tubes of
henna.
Dubai Henna is a henna shop in the United
Arab Emirates, where the owner, Safi Munafer,
creates her own mix with natural substances.
Munafer wanted to be able to draw and paint henna
on anyone, and to be able to spread the art of Henna
across the globe.
The trends listed above and the brands at the
forefront of creating them are a huge part of what the
beauty industry is today. These practices have been
around for centuries, yet many cultures and parts of
the world are just now discovering and utilizing them.
Bary says supporting Arab-owned business
and traditions is the perfect way to celebrate this
Arab Heritage month. It is important to give credit
to this innovative culture, and Arab Heritage month
is essential for giving recognition to the community
continually trailblazing the beauty industry.
17 alice.ua.edu Design by Meagan Riordan

Breakout Breakthroughs:
Navigating Seasonal Skin
Seasonal changes can have a big impact on the
health and appearance of skin. Maintaing an
updated skincare routine is important to ensure
the skin feels its best. However, even that can
come with its struggles as skin adjusts to different
types of weather.
The changes in seasons can have various
effects of the skin, and breakouts during the winter
and spring transition are not uncommon, according to
Dr. Kozeny, a dermatologist from Illinois. Winter skin
can be damaging due to the cold and dry air which
tends to cause dryness on the skin and a disruption of
the skin barrier.
“As the seasons change, there can be a lot
of triggers that can cause your skin to breakout,
especially in the spring transition,” Dr. Kozeny says.
“Changes in humidity and temperature fluctuations
tend to be the leading causes of breakouts.”
Throughout this time of year, the skin tries
its best to adapt with the change in season, whether
it is trying to stay hydrated or just needs some extra
care. High humidity can contribute to increased oil
19 alice.ua.edu
By Brenna Bolek
production and clogged pores, while low humidity in
the winter can lead to dry skin. The skin may become
flaky on the face and body, but by keeping an eye on
how it’s reacting, it is possible to combat the effects
of the seasonal changes early on.
“Exfoliation is an important step because in
the winter your skin tends to build up more dead skin
cells, which can sometimes lead to clogged pores,”
Dr. Kozeny says. “Exfoliating about once a week with
an exfoliating pad from a preferred brand, a gentle
cleanser or a liquid exfoliant can help the skin breathe
and prevent breakouts.”
Protecting skin and accounting for changes
may mean adding in more skin care products,
updating a routine or possibly a prescription to help
breakouts. All of these may work, but it’s important to
stay cautious of what is being put on the skin and in
the body, as it could cause a reaction or side effects.
Nellie Phillips, someone who struggles with
breakouts, shares her experiences with Accutane
and how it has transformed her skin. She has been
taking Accutane for the past five months due to

experiencing hormonal breakouts, which came as a
surprise.
“Outside of my hormonal acne, Accutane
has taken a toll on my skin, sometimes good and
sometimes bad,” Phillips says. “The side effects have
been the worst part of this journey, and even though
Accutane is helping my skin, it is a struggle to deal
with them.”
While Accutane may be looked at as a
preventative medication to soothe breakouts, the
side effects can be significant, including pregnancy
risks, extreme dryness, sun-sensitive skin and even
recurring nosebleeds.
“The main side effects that I have experienced
are constant dryness of my skin, chapped lips, nose
bleeds and even my nail cuticles have weakened, so I
have nail pain,” Phillips says.
She says even though the side effects are the
most troubling part, the positive effects are visible.
“My skin has cleared up a significant amount
since I started, the only thing left I have to take care of
is acne scarring,” Phillips says.
To help with some of these effects, Phillips
has implemented some new skin care practices into
her normal routine. Her remedies include exfoliation,
gentle skin peels from a dermatologist, constant
moisturization and most importantly sunscreen.
Celia Egizio, someone who struggles with her
skin in the winter season, has implemented many
practices similar to that of Phillips.
“My skin breaks out more in the winter, so I
try my best to exfoliate my body and face whenever
I shower to make sure my skin is maintained,” Egizio
says.
She says social media has helped her find
products that work best for her skin, as well as top
rated products others have recommended.
As winter transitions to spring, it is important
to change skin care regiments based on the new
season. Winter skin care routines may consist of
heavier creams or products to combat the dry, cold
air. However, in the new season, it is best to try
and use lighter products as it becomes
hotter but make sure to keep skincare
routines simple. As new products
are added to a routine, don’t forget
to keep sunscreen in the daily
lineup. Although
the sun may not be as damaging in the
spring as it is in the summer, it can help
block UV rays, enhance skin health and reduce
the signs of aging.
For those seeking recommendations for
dermatologist approved skincare brands, here are
several options worth considering:
• La Roche-Posay
• CeraVe
• Panoxyl
• Elta MD (Sunscreen)
• SkinCeuticals
These skincare brands include face cleansers,
moisturizers, sunscreen, serums and so much more.
Don’t be afraid to try new products to see what works
best.
Dealing with breakouts can be challenging,
often causing frustration or discomfort. However, it is
important to remember that experiencing breakouts is
a normal part of everyone’s skincare journey.
Design by Isabelle Williams
Photos by Hannah Grace Mayfield
Modeled by Bella Richardson,
Morgan Collinsw and Breonna Terry

A
HI
N
21 alice.ua.edu

IT’S A “FIBE”:
How Alabama Artists Found their Community
through Fiber Art
COSPLAY 101:
A CONversation on Cosplay
ELETRIC THREADS:
The Key to Rave and EDM Fashion
OFFERING YOUR SUNDAY BEST
IN THE BLACK CHURCH
WHEN TO THROW IN THE TOWEL

IT’S A
“FIBE”
How Alabama
Artists Found their
Community through
Fiber Art
By Anna Punswick
23 alice.ua.edu
A
ball of yarn may seem somewhat ordinary at first glance. While
these fibers connect everything from clothes to chairs, they
also connect individuals through personal inspiration and
community support, forging inclusive artistic communities spin by
spin.
Fiber art is a mix between science and symphony, according to
Dr. Amanda J. Thompson, an associate professor at The University of
Alabama. Thompson focuses on textile and fiber characterization and
testing. The process is meticulous, as it is done entirely by hand and
requires knowledge of different types of materials, yet uniquely
individual, with artists differing in weaving and loom patterns as well as
yarn type and textures.
Beginning her sewing journey during her senior year of
college, Tori Christensen, a fiber artist residing in Tuscaloosa, quickly
developed a skill for pattern and texture mixing in her designs. After
mastering crocheting, the softness and feel of her creations inspired
her to she create for herself a new artistic avenue that could be both
innovative and inclusive. As she continued playing with sensory in her
practice pieces, Christensen realized she could help individuals with
vision impairments, like her brother, experience art through an
alternate sense: touch.
“I’d been trying to find a way to incorporate him and involve him
in my art,” Christensen says. “Making touchable fiber art, I found that
place for him.”
While working in her new job with youth in transitional housing,
she noticed that there was a lack of green spaces in many
communities, as well as minimal investment in the arts. This sparked
Christensen to use her gifts to create art that brought joy into people’s

lives, while also being inclusive and interactive for
those with vision impairments, like her brother.
“I was like, okay, we need to get something green
in their houses, even if it’s not a real plant. I started
making these urban gardens, this touchable art that’s
green and can invite space and light into people’s
homes. It can also benefit those who can’t see, so it’s a
double-layered inspiration,” Christensen says.
When formulating designs, Christensen often
drew inspiration from hikes she took around Alabama
when she first moved to the state. To determine the
starting design for her gardens, she uses latch hook
canvas as a base. Laying out all of her yarn, which she
spins herself, Christensen then decides her shapes,
color scheme and layout of her garden, sometimes
utilizing sight simulation goggles to help her visualize
what her art might look like to someone with vision
impairments.
Creativity, exploration and fun are
Christensen’s guiding principles, as “art is really just
play. It’s curiosity realized. If you’re going to allow
people to be their true selves and feed their inner
child, they need to be able to play.”
While teaching art classes on the
weekends, as well as working for a tailoring
company, Christensen found much of her creative
community in Tuscaloosa through the Druid City
Makerspace, which provides tools and facilities
for local artists, as well as a place to bond with
one another.
“I’m there almost every day honestly,” she
says. “They have so many things at my disposal
that I can create in a new way. There’s a big art
community there, and through that, I found a
lot of friends.”
Looking toward the future,
Christensen says opening up exhibitions
for neurodivergent and vision-impaired
individuals is one of her career goals.
She hopes to specifically work with blind
artists, with an entire gallery dedicated
to highlighting their work with a focus
on multi-sensory art. She asserts that
having spaces centered on celebrating
communities that often get overlooked
is vital to ensuring that art can be
shared and experienced by all.
“All are welcome is different
than we built this for you,” she says.
“Inviting people into a space versus
creating a space for them are two
different concepts.”

Christensen’s dream is to create
an artistic community that fosters positive
relationships between people of different
backgrounds while uplifting communities that
have been barred from experiencing art in
the past. By creating work that includes them,
individuals in these communities are empowered
to share their
experiences and art.
When Jennifer Lackey moved from
Baltimore to Birmingham 10 years ago, she was
worried that she wouldn’t be able to find any
“yarn people” to share her love of fiber arts with.
Upon her arrival, however, she immediately found
the Greater Birmingham Fiber Guild, a group
welcoming both amateur and professional fiber
artists to practice their craft since 1975. She
decided to hold a loom warming after getting to
know members of the organization, inviting them
to bring their favorite styles of yarn to weave on
the new loom. No one coordinated the color
scheme or the texture of the final product, but it
ended up as a cohesive, yet individualistic piece
that reminds Lackey of the relationships she has
built because of fiber art over the years.
“It’s so beautiful. I immediately hung it
up on my wall. It’s one of my most-loved pieces
because I can tell you exactly who each section’s
yarn is, and that’s really special to me,” Lackey
says.
Lackey went on to serve as president and
now as treasurer of the guild, finding her
supportive artistic community in the 70+
members of the group, who are all passionate
about sharing their love and knowledge of fiber
arts.
Unlike Christensen’s more inventive
approach to fiber art, Lackey prefers a functional
aspect to her pieces, creating items like dresses
and blankets, which are useful in day-to-day
life. Yet her fiber art process still divulges from
the norm, as she creates projects using her
collection of antique looms and spinning wheels,
and she wouldn’t have it any other way.
“[I love] having that knowledge of how
ancient fiber art is, how fundamental it has been,”
Lackey says. “It’s been seen as women’s work
and not as important, and yet it was integral to
what made societies work and economies run.”
One of her favorite projects was
created for her aunt and uncle in West Virginia,
who helped raise her growing up. Their home
was always full of heirloom coverlets, an early
colonial-era weaving style that has fallen out of

fashion in most places except for Appalachia. She
decided to knit one to give to them for their bed, in
honor of their love of antiques and history.
“They always talk about how much it means
to them to curl up under it. My uncle would find my
aunt taking naps up there under the coverlet and
send me pictures. That’s what makes it worth it, the
way it connects people together in my life,” Lackey
says.
She notes that throughout her artistic journey,
she has had many conversations about being a
process fiber artist versus a product fiber artist, but
always felt like she was both. Lackey loves being able
to create art specifically tailored for an individual
but equally enjoys being able to gift it and see that
person implement that art into their daily lives. Her
inspirations would often draw from the needs and
wants of people she loved, which would help her in
the creative process of design conceptualization.
“I just love giving people things that I’ve spent
time on. I get mad if people are like ‘Oh, this is so
pretty, we don’t want to use it!’ because I want them
to use it, and wear it out and have it in your life every
day,” she laughs. “That’s what makes it rewarding.”
To Lackey, what brought her art to life is the lives of
others.
The Greater Birmingham Fiber Guild meets
once a month, where members participate in an
activity, listen to a guest speaker or bring their
projects to share with others. Lackey notes that
individuals within the guild vary in background, age,
and skill level, but all are welcome; the support within
the group was unmatched, with everyone uplifting
and supporting each other. The organization was
started in the 1970s and continues to grow each
year.
“Some of those early members are still in the group,
but every year we get new people who’ve never
joined before, [and] who are just excited to be there,
which is one of the coolest parts,” says Lackey.
Both Christensen and Lackey say the
overarching objective within their respective art is to
form a community in which each individual feels
personally invited to explore and experiment with
their passions, in an accessible and welcoming
space.
“Fiber people are always so giving and want
to educate each other. Everybody wants everybody to
do everything, and people go out of their way to help
teach and pass on what they know,” Lackey says.
Christensen concurred, saying: “The most important
thing about fiber art is that everyone’s invited.
Art is a universal language, and creation is a part of
the human experience that I want everyone to have
access to,” she says. “Everyone deserves that.”
“Art is really just
play. It’s curiosity
realized. If you’re
going to allow
people to be their
true selves and feed
their inner child,
they need to be
able to play.”
- Christensen
Photos by Emily Waugh
Modeled by Shelby Brightwell
Design by Sarah Mitchell
Alice Spring 2024 26

cosplay 101:
a CONvers ation on cosplay
By Gabrielle Gunter
From fanfiction to fanart, cosplay is just one way
that fans interact with their favorite media.
“Cosplay, which is short for costume play,
typically involves dressing as a fictional character…I
think that making your own costume, embodying the
character and interacting with other cosplayers can
also be a bit part of cosplay, but I don’t necessarily
think they’re requirements,” says M Carroll, a graduate
student at The University of Arkansas for Medical
Sciences. Carroll has experience crafting cosplays,
such as Slippy Toad and Peppy Hare from the “Star
Fox” series, with his sister.
Conventions, also known as cons, are a place
where cosplayers can share their art with a larger,
like-minded audience. Conventions are typically run
by fans and for fans which makes them the perfect
setting to show off one’s cosplay. Conventions are
great for finding, building and strengthening a likeminded
community.
“My experience cosplaying at cons has
mostly just been a lot of fun. I get to have a great
time with friends, and I get to meet voice actors and
creators of shows and movies that I love…Cosplaying
at cons to me means getting to make a ton of great
memories with my friends and getting to meet new
people who share my same interests,” says Caroline
Pugh, a junior studying elementary education at The
University of Alabama. Pugh is a casual cosplayer
who regularly attends conventions such as Kami-Con
and Momocon.
Aria Lawrence, a sophomore at UA, operates
a cosplay account on Instagram known as “@
ariaofexpertise”. With just over 22,000 followers,
Lawrence posts photoshoots of her cosplaying iconic
characters, such as Jennifer from “Jennifer’s Body,”
Lydia Deetz from “Beetlejuice” and Marceline from
“Adventure Time.” Lawrence began sharing their
cosplay with the online cosplay community during
high school and has since grown attached to it.
“I think I’m able to use social media to
connect with a wider audience and receive

immediate feedback. I also have garnered more
opportunities this way…whether that be interviews
or free items sent to me,” says Lawrence.
Whether online or at a convention, cosplay
is an opportunity to explore identity as it is not
limited by traditional ideas of race, gender and
appearances. Cosplayers are not constrained by
their identities when it comes to choosing who
to cosplay. For example, Lawrence, who is Black,
has cosplayed many non-Black characters and
believes that everyone can cosplay who they wish
despite their racial identity.
“I simply cosplay characters that I like and
that speak to me…However, I do believe that it
is important to cosplay characters outside of my
racial background to break away from traditional
racial norms in the cosplay community. In the
future, I want to be intentional about challenging
stereotypes and expanding the narrative of who
can embody certain roles, which is everybody and
their mama, by the way, regardless of race,” says
Lawrence.
In addition to challenging racial norms,
cosplay also allows for an exploration of gender.
When someone cosplays as a character whose
gender does not match their own, the cosplay is
sometimes referred to as a crossplay.
Crossplay is widely accepted in the
cosplay community and is even seen
as its own unique subgenre of cosplay.
“I think there are a lot of people that
do use cosplay as an alternative
way to express their gender
identity. Cosplay conventions,
costume festivals, [renaissance
fairs], and similar events
generally provide an inclusive
space where people can freely
express themselves without
jeopardizing their safety,”
says Carroll. “As a visibly
trans person, I feel
like cosplaying as
characters that
align with my
identity could be gender affirming for me, [by]
having other people encourage the way I present
myself even though I am wearing the ‘mask’ of a
fictional character, [which] would make me feel
more confident and comfortable overall.”
Cosplay also allows for plus-sized people
to depict their favorite characters in ways that
better reflect their bodies. Media is lacking in
representation of plus-sized characters, but
through cosplay, cosplayers can create their own
representation.
“I love seeing other fat people cosplay…A
lot of the time, skinny people’s compliments to fat
people existing in public doing a hobby relating to
beauty is something along the lines of ‘Oh, you’re
so brave!’ which is not a compliment. Seeing
another fat person cosplay gives me so much
confidence and just general gaiety that cosplayers
don’t let comments like that drag down the joy of
cosplaying,” says Jay Matthews. Matthews attends
annual conventions and dabbles in cosplay.
Cosplay is an incredibly valuable art form.
It builds community and creates a safe space
where people can challenge societal norms
while also affirming their true selves. The cosplay
community exists both physically and virtually
which makes it accessible to everyone, and these
spaces tend to be inclusive and accepting of
everyone. Friendships are created and bolstered in
these spaces due to the strong bonds that cosplay
allows people to create. In cosplay spaces, people
are allowed to embrace, reaffirm and explore
their identities in ways society would not typically
allow for. People can cosplay whoever they want,
however they want in a safe space. Cosplay allows
for a form of self-expression most settings do not
allow for. Through their cosplays, cosplayers are
pushing for a more inclusive society.
Photos by Alisha Power
Design by Sarah Mitchell
Alice Spring 2024 28

Electric
Threads:
The Key to Rave and EDM
Fashion
By Valentina Puebla
A
rave is a dance party typically held in areas
like a warehouse, club or outdoor venue. The
most common music featured at these dance
parties is house, techno and electronic dance music
(EDM). Raves often feature multiple DJs and are very
heavily produced events. The production elements
usually include color and strobe lights, proper sound
equipment, light toys, lasers and fog machines. It
is common for these parties to start late, beginning
around midnight, and continuing into the early hours
of the morning, sometimes even trickling into the
afternoon. The goal of attending a rave is to listen to
the music one loves, express oneself and have an
exciting time.
Raves began around the 1980s in both Europe
and the United States following the rise of techno and
house music. European raves were typically more
exclusive, due to the desire to remain secret and avoid
confrontations with law enforcement. To keep these
parties low-key, they were held during the late hours
of the night with a strict guest list. Guests were often
not told the location of the event until the night of the
rave.
Over time, raves became more popular and
started to draw larger crowds. The phenomenon of
all-night raves as they are seen today, with thousands
of people gathering outside of large cities began
around the late 1980s. During this time, raves began
to spread overseas to the United States. The first
rave parties in the U.S. were said to be thrown in Los
Angeles and San Francisco.
During the 1990s, both the demographic
and the location of these raves began to shift. The
audience transitioned from young adults to teens,
and due to raves becoming such lucrative events,
their venues went from small private clubs to large
stadiums. During this period, rave fashion became
more well-defined. Bright-colored and airy clothing,
along with face and body paint, became the staple
rave attire.
Kandi bracelets, made from colorful plastic
beads, usually containing messages, became
immensely popular during this time. These
bracelets are meant to be traded and symbolize the
connections made between friends and strangers
alike during the party.
Another essential part of rave culture
is the term ravers have coined as “PLUR.” This
phrase stands for “peace, love, unity and respect.”
The inclusion and celebration of people from all
backgrounds is a cornerstone of rave culture.
Along with themes of unity and use of vibrant
colors, the attire of rave parties puts a large emphasis
on comfort. During the 90s it was popular to wear
loose and airy clothing, such as wide leg pants and
t-shirts. More important than the clothes themselves
were the accessories worn during raves. Colorful
visors, pacifiers, bags and handheld lights enhanced
outfits and made them even more eye-catching.
These trends that began 90s rave fashion are
still echoed in many of today’s looks. Loose clothing
is still popular amongst many ravers who desire to
remain comfortable. However, in recent years, there
has been a shift into tighter clothing along with
showing more skin. The bright colors and Kandi
culture are prevalent today, but instead of larger tutus
and bigger pants, micro shorts and miniskirts are on
trend.
Mariel Peters is a sophomore studying finance
at The University of Alabama who grew up around
Red Rocks Amphitheater, a notorious rave venue. She
has attended raves for years and has noticed a shift to
smaller and more form-fitting clothing.
“I often go for a smaller crop top and
parachute pants or cargos,” Peters says.
Though the basics are important, bringing
a rave outfit to the next level involves one thing:
accessories. Peters notices that an emerging trend
29 alice.ua.edu

among ravers is wearing a pashmina as a head scarf.
Vibrant jewelry, shoes, hats and sunglasses are all
great options to elevate a look. Using temporary
tattoos and LED face stickers can also make for a
powerful addition to an already captivating outfit.
Another big part of rave fashion is being not
only comfortable, but confident in one’s own skin,
which clothing and accessories are a large part of.
Rebecca Burney, apparel and textiles
professor at UA, believes “most attendees want to
be stylish, but [they] should also factor in comfort.
Even a super fabulous outfit will not look good if the
wearer is miserable having it on!”
For those who prefer simpler outfits, she
recommends rompers or slip dresses so wearers
don’t have to worry about coordinating a top and
bottom. These pieces can be easily accessorized
with colorful vests and jackets. Burney suggests
avoiding any swimsuit-like fabric made with
unnatural materials that can make rave-goers hot and
sweaty. Instead, she advises wearing lighter fabrics
like cotton, linens and silks.
Rave attendees often seek to stand out in
their original outfits. This can be achieved through
upcycling clothing or searching for vintage pieces.
Bella Delgado, a sophomore studying
environmental conservation and aviation at UA, has
been attending raves at various venues for several
years. She believes thrifting funky pieces makes her
outfits stand out. She also suggests buying clothing
at rave stores during the party. These shops tend to
have special pieces that may be hard to find at typical
clothing stores. Incorporating the message of unity
into outfits is often important to many ravers.
Burney also suggests an excellent way to
unite the tribe is through coordinating outfits. A
group dressing in one color or similar silhouettes is a
way to embody the message of togetherness.
Raves are an exhilarating experience that
everyone should experience at least once in their
life. The fashion is unlike anything found in anywhere
else and allows wearers to express themselves in
ways they may not be able to in everyday life.
Design By Sarah Smith
Alice Spring 2024 30

Offering Your
Sunday Best
in the Black
Church
By Dani Rouseau
S
unday morning in the Black church
is characterized by liveliness
and pride. While the preacher’s
powerful sermon or the blaring
gospel music rocking the pews may
seem more obvious, attendees’ Sunday best is
no less important when it comes to the Black
community’s unique way of celebrating God.
The term “Sunday best” originates from
American slavery, when “Sunday worship and
two sets of clothes were often the only freedoms
enslaved communities were afforded,” according
to Yelena Grelet of Service95. With such limited
means, Black communities preserved a set of
clothes for Sunday service, presenting their best
selves to God.
In later decades, Sunday best would take
on a more formal look, with patent leather shoes,
frilly dresses, suits and hats becoming staples of
Black church fashion. Still today, senior women
of the church steal the show in ornate, colorful
suits and extravagant hats, while senior men
wear classy, tailored three-piece suits. However,
modern church-wear has undergone several
changes as younger generations challenge the
traditional idea of Sunday best.
77-year-old Yvette Ivie, long-time usher
at New St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church and
lifelong church attendee, recalls that “When
[she] was a younger girl, girls couldn’t wear pants
to church, and never shorts. They’d probably put
you out.”
Nowadays, Ivie says, “the older ladies
and men wear dresses and suits, [and] the
younger people wear whatever they want to
wear.” In this instance, “whatever they want to
wear” often entails casual to dressy casual attire
for young to middle-aged attendees.
22-year-old Makayla Davis, who is an
avid churchgoer, describes her Sunday best
as consisting of “nice jeans, a sweater or a
sundress.”
19-year-old Sydney Vandiver, a member
of Pleasant Grove Missionary Baptist, wears
slacks and blouses to church.
“I like dressing up. I feel good in the
clothes I put on. I dress for myself, not for the
Lord,” Vandiver says. Though Vandiver may
31 alice.ua.edu

prefer a fancier dress, “most of the time, kids my
age wear jeans and a dressy shirt.”
While younger churchgoers may dress
informally in comparison to older churchgoers, it
isn’t as simple as pulling just anything from their
wardrobe.
“There’s absolutely an unspoken dress
code,” says Davis. “You might get looked at funny
if you don’t dress a certain way.”
Vandiver feels similarly, saying that
outside of dressing for herself, her other priority
when preparing for Sunday service is “making
sure [her] belly button doesn’t show.” This social
pressure is not only perceived by new-age
members of the church.
Ivie says the dress code is not unspoken,
but rather “whispered in your ear” by senior
members of the church, who are fittingly referred
to as Church Mothers. She explains, “they
monitor mostly the women and will tap you on
the shoulder if you’re not dressed appropriately.”
Senior men of the church fill a similar role,
alerting male members when their Sunday best
is not up to par.
“It’s about respect,” says Davis.
Ivie agrees that dressing in one’s Sunday best is
a way “to show respect for the teachings. It [isn’t]
like you are running off to the playground to play.”
Sundays are a special exception.
Sunday best in the Black church is not
limited to Sunday service, either. The community
fostered in the Black church is a constant source
of support and love. Historically, the Black
church has functioned as a community center
for Black people.
During the Civil Rights Movement,
planning for protests and other social justice
efforts occurred inside churches, or originated
there and expanded to wider-scale grassroots
efforts.
Ivie remembers that “everyone was
in some organization or another to advance
Black folk. Almost everything by Black folk was
organized in the church because we didn’t have
access to anything else.” Then, presentation
was not only about showing respect to God, but
also was also a way to show respect to the Black
community.
Black Sunday best is a display of pride in a
community that has been pushed to the margins
and oppressed for centuries. Regardless of
what clothing one owns or how they choose to
style themselves, presenting one’s best self to
God and to the church is an
assertion of power.
“
BLACK SUNDAY BEST IS A
DISPLAY OF PRIDE IN A
COMMUNITY THAT HAS BEEN
PUSHED TO THE MARGINS
AND OPPRESSED
FOR CENTURIES.
“
Design by Meagan Riordan
Photos by Caroline Simmons
Modeled by Maya Martin
and Breonna Terry
Alice Spring 2024 32

When to
Throw in the
Towel
By Colette Ingle
To sort or not to sort. That is the question.
The average college student has an
extensive laundry list of to-do’s. When it
comes to doing actual laundry, it can be tempting
to use a less than mindful approach, just hoping for
the best–and why not–what is the worst that could
happen?
The answer lies in longevity and precaution.
Taking care when doing laundry reduces the risks
of accidental dying, abrasions and pilling and
wearing down clothes too quickly. While haphazard
laundry practices seem innocent enough, building
a preventative laundry routine is a good idea to
lessen the number of accidents.
The first step to an intentional laundry
practice is sorting.
Sydney Branson, home-laundress of ten
years, recommends “[sorting] by darks and lights”
to avoid accidental dying or dulling bright colors.
Though it may be tempting to skip this step, it is
important, especially if washing new clothes or
dyed clothes such, as dark-wash jeans.
Haley Scott, a sophomore at Louisiana
State University says towels, bedding and clothing
should be sorted separately to avoid “fuzz or cotton
from towels and blankets to spread on the material
of sheets and … clothes.” This also protects lighter
materials from snags and pilling. While it is always
advisable to wash delicates or materials prone to
pilling separately, another way to protect them is by
putting them in a mesh bag.
In the process of sorting, it is smart to do a quick
check for trinkets in pockets and stains to prevent
later headaches.
Sara Bailey, a sophomore at Tennessee
Tech University and is living with multiple
roommates. She says leaving items in pockets is
one of the more common mistakes that is easily
preventable. This is especially important for
things like “candy, AirPods and pens” because
33 alice.ua.edu

they can create more problems once washed. She
also suggests using a “spray-and-wash” to quickly
address stains. A pre-treatment laundry stain
remover is an extremely user-friendly way to address
stains. To use, spray on the target areas, and then
wash as normal.
Once clothes have been sorted, it is time to
choose cycle settings. For clothes that have never
been washed before, the tag will often include cycle
settings. For iPhone users, there is even a feature
that can decode the symbols on clothing tags using
the camera. For every-day use, cold water is typically
a safe bet to avoid shrinking and help prevent colors
bleeding. For thicker fabrics that may be soiled or
more dirty, warm water is acceptable. Save hot water
for whites and extremely dirty material; however, it
is important to be mindful of the material to avoid
shrinking.
Next, add detergent. If the machine is a top
load washer, which means it opens from above,
remember to put the detergent in before the laundry,
especially for darker washes.
Branson advises that layering detergent on top
of clothing could leave behind lines from where the
detergent was placed. Typically, the washing cycle
takes anywhere from 60 to 90 minutes, and clothes
should be taken out as soon as possible to avoid
mildew, which results from an excess of moisture
being trapped in fabrics. In most cases, simply rewashing
laundry with a mildew smell will alleviate the
problem. Stubborn smells, however, may need to be
washed in a cycle with white vinegar, which will work
with the heat to break up growing bacteria.
Some garments are best to air-dry. Air-drying
is a good option to prevent clothes from shrinking,
pilling or losing shape. Air-drying clothes is gentler on
fabric and will make them last longer. The next best
thing for more delicate clothes is drying on a lower
heat setting.
Before starting the dryer, remember to empty
out the lint tray, as failing to do so can cause a fire.
Consider using something to protect clothes against
static like a one-time-use dryer sheet or a reusable
dryer sheet.
After laundry has been completed, rinse,
wash, and repeat, but how often exactly should this
cycle be repeated?
Branson recommends “[washing] jeans on
[the] second or third wear, tops once or twice, and
sheets around every two weeks.” Washing clothes
too often can cause the fabric to deteriorate and
weaken.
The transition to college can be difficult, but
doing laundry doesn’t have to be. Balancing school,
work and a social life can lead to neglected house
chores. While getting by without ample knowledge
of laundry is possible, having an expanded
repertoire and good routine can allow for a stressfree
process void of mishaps. Having one area of life
that is predictable and chaos-free is a gift in college,
so take these tips and wash laundry worries away.
Design by Sarah Smith
Photos by Hannah Grace Mayfield
Modeled by Em Oblites and Jakayla T
Alice Spring 2024 34

35 alice.ua.edu
Design by Meagan Riordan
Film Photos by Emily Will
Modeled by Izzy Mciff

Alice Spring 2024 36

IFE
TYLE
37 alice.ua.edu

WORDS FULL OF WISDOM
EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW
TO RUN A MARATHON
HOW CONSUMERISM IS CONSUMING US
GIRLS’ NIGHT OUT
Alice Fall 2023 (page #)

Words
Full of
Wisdom
By Elena Giorgi
“I
n times of struggle and stress, many women
find comfort in falling back on a motto or life
lesson that inspires them, uplifts them and
encourages them to keep on keeping on. It
is engraved in their minds from those points
on, shaping the way they live, speak and
interact on a daily basis. Motivation can be found
in the simplest of words, offering the confidence
to make it through an unfortunate situation, a long
week or a tumultuous period.
“Small progress has to happen
in order to achieve big results.”
- Charlie Beth Pruett, UA Lobby
Board Director
“Focus on what you can control
and let go of what you cannot”
- Elaina Poole, Alabama
Panhellenic Association
Assistant Director of Sigma
Rho Chis
“I didn’t come this far to only go this far.”
- Jennafer Bowman, former Editor-in-Chief
of Alice Mag
“The days are long, but the years are short.”
- Natali Arms, UA Dance Team Senior
Read through some of the mottos and
words that inspire, uplift and encourage some
women at the University of Alabama who are
showing the world their presence and power. Some
are quotes they have heard from other people,
some are inside jokes, some are words that got
them through a particularly rough patch and others
are products of their own brilliant minds. Chosen
because of their talents, accomplishments and
grace, these women have shared their insight and
outlook on life for every woman who opens these
pages of Alice.
“Go hard, be easy”
- MJ Miller, News Producer at
Fox WGHP
“Unless someone like you cares a whole
awful lot, nothing is going to get better.
It’s not.”
- Riley Adam, UA Miracle Vice
President of Internal Operations
“Things always work out for the
best.”
- Dr. Karla K. Gower, Director,
The Plank Center for
Leadership in Public Relations
“He must become greater, I must
become less!”
- Rachel Cain, Campus
Outreach Staff &
Women’s Shepherd
39 alice.ua.edu

“Everything happens for a reason. Trust
your plan, path and God’s timing.”
- Audrey Hayes, Head of Broadcast for
Alabama D1 Hockey
“She stood in the storm, and when the wind
did not blow her way, she adjusted her sails.”
- Dr. Caroline S. Parsons, UA Associate
Professor in Communication Studies and
Internships Coordinator
“Life doesn’t have to be perfect to
be wonderful.”
- Finley Nelson, UA
Capstone Woman
“Be where your feet are”
- Lauren Naomi, Fitness Instructor at
True40 and BASH
“One day at a time.”
- Emma Kate Standard, Editor-in-Chief of
Alice Mag
“You were made for this! Life can be
more than anything you have ever hoped,
dreamed or imagined - you got this!”
- Leah Drury, Owner and Coach at
Battle Republic
“Everything happens for a reason.”
- Katie Grace Bollinger, Phi Mu President & Alice
Terry, Chi Omega President
“When times get tough, I remember my why.”
- Annabelle Knapp, Dance Alabama! Member
“Don’t quit your daydream.”
- Elena Giorgi, Lifestyle Editor of Alice Magazine
Design by Sarah Smith
Alice Spring 2024 40

It’s a Marathon, not a Sprint:
Tips and Tricks for Long-Distance Running
By Leigh Baldwin
Running. It can be for fun or exercise, but
many people take it a step further and
make it a journey. Marathons are 26.2
miles long. Imagine driving to a favorite
local restaurant 27 minutes away. Now,
imagine running to the restaurant on
foot instead. Running a distance that long without a
break is very taxing on the body both physically and
mentally, which is why runners must train before a
marathon, often for months at a time.
There are many highs and lows to running a
marathon, so why do people choose to do it? Listed
below are helpful tips and tricks so anyone can
crush a marathon.
Benefits
At age 17, Madison
Sanschagrin is one of the
youngest individuals to
ever run the Chicago
marathon. She sees
running as a form
of self-love, and a
way to test her
strength daily.
“I run because
I have fallen in love
with the challenge and
the way that when I run,
it is my time to truly enjoy
everything around me. I feel as
though time slows down, and
I get a second to not worry,
stress, or think about
anything…I just run!” says
Sanschagrin.
Modern society often celebrates instant gratification,
but Sanschagrin would argue that marathon
running is better for the soul in the long run. It takes
dedication and commitment to be successful, and
this mentality can transfer to other aspects of life.
Many marathoners express joy in finding a
running community and sharing the enjoyment of
solitude in the silence. Being able to think, process
and reflect has been a great benefit for many.
Marathoner Carla Simmons spoke about her
addiction to smoking and how she was able to stop
because of her training for a marathon. Simmons set
a goal for herself and running became a way for her to
focus on something besides smoking.
Half marathon runner, Rudy Meeks, credits
running for saving his live after undergoing a triple
bypass surgery on his heart. Most marathoners
would agree the mental toughness needed to run
a marathon is great, but most definitely worth it for
them in the end when they get that finish line feeling.
Marathon Training
Another notable runner is ultra-marathoner, Steve
Troxel. A Boston Marathon qualifier, Troxel holds
the American record for the 48 hour and 6-day race
events in his age group.
According to Troxel, the biggest tip for
marathon training is to start slow. When he
began training, he admits to starting out too fast
and suffering the consequences. By not pacing
oneself, the body’s aerobic system cannot develop
appropriately, and research suggests this can put
runners at a greater risk for injury. In addition, starting
out too fast increases the need for recovery time
between runs.
“Once you accept the idea of running slower,
you will find that you can run more often and run more
miles,” Troxel says.
Prioritizing sleep is an extremely important element
for runners to be successful. Having a dedicated
allotment of time for sleep each night and training
during the day is essential for a healthy balance of
both work and rest.
“You need to be able to get out the door
several times a week and devote extra time on the
weekends for long runs,” Troxel says.
Another great tip for aspiring runners is to surround
themselves with encouraging people, says

Sanschagrin. These people could
be family members, friends or the
running community itself. Training
for a marathon can be grueling and
frustrating, so having emotional
support is important.
Creating a playlist of songs
to listen to during training is also a
great idea for new runners. Many
marathoners enjoy listening to
music on their runs, and Simmons
claims she cannot go out for a run
without her AirPods.
Michael Kennedy, coach
at Orange Theory Fitness, says
having a personalized running plan
or finding a local running
group to train with is key.
Kennedy also suggested
incorporating tempo, hills
and fartlek runs into training.
Marathon runner
Edgar Steers suggests 5k and
10k races as steppingstones
for training. Steers says these
races challenge not only
endurance, but also mental
toughness. Knowing it’s possible to
finish a race is crucial for a runner
training for their first marathon.
Attire and Nutrition
When considering training
for a marathon, there are a few
items runners must have on hand.
The first essential is solid running
shoes. Consider getting fitted for
appropriate shoes designed for
the way feet are shaped and the
intensity and angle one has when
striking the ground. Seasoned
marathoners suggest not wearing
running shoes around towm,
and exclusively wearing them for
runs. This will prevent shoes from
breaking down and help prevent
injury. There is no one brand
better than the other, and the most
important factor is to be fitted
properly.
A 10-time marathoner and
athletic trainer for track and field at
Baylor University, Sheree Colson,
suggests buying compression
socks to wear after a run to aid in
recovery.
Colson also says
consuming electrolytes and
“I run because I have
fallen in love with the
challenge and the way that
when I run, it is my time
to truly enjoy everything
around me.”
glucose frequently and early is a
great help during the race. Fueling
the body sufficiently is essential.
“Never depend on a fueling
station – have what you need,”
says Colson.
Anyone can do it!
Marathoners are an
inspiring group of people.
Everyone’s reasoning of
why they chose to tackle such an
arduous event is personal and
unique. Some enjoy the challenge
of pushing their bodies beyond
what they think they can do, and
others look forward to the finish
line and sense of accomplishment.
Marathon runners Kennedy
and Simmons describe the
comradery that forms during a race
as everyone begins to struggle
with fatigue. The simplest of words
can make the difference in getting
through it.
This also rings true for
Troxel, though he runs to inspire
the next generation of runners.
“As an older runner, I run
to encourage others that they are
capable of more than they realize is
possible,” says Troxel.
Anything is possible,
including running 26.2 miles at
a time; all it takes is a little time,
and a whole lot of discipline.
Consider starting a new journey
in life and get out there and go
for a run!
Design By Sarah Smith
Photos By Emma Mae Burtnett
Modeled By Caroline Prince
Alice Spring 2024 42

HOW CONSUMERISM
IS CONSUMING US
Shop till you Drop: America’s Love Affair with Consumerism.
Design by Meagan Riordan
Photos by Caroline Simmons
43 alice.ua.edu
By Catherine O’Halloran
Modeled by Paige Becwar,
Sara Harder and Elizabeth Rice

W
e have always been consumers.
It is a we must be in order to
survive. We are consumers of
the food we eat, the shelter
we build and, the clothing we
wear. As America has grown up, particularly into the
Industrial Revolution, there has been a massive burst
of consumption throughout the country. Small, local
shops began to see competition from corporations,
the assembly-line production came into effect, and
the money-hungry profiteers became focused on
getting rich quick.
Today, a common view of consumerism in
America is the idea that we consumers must keep
up with the latest trends. Take that dress that you’ve
been eyeing since
your favorite
influencer posted it
on her their Amazon
Storefront or the
Stanley tumblers
that have become
a phenomenon.
Consumerism
can truly be allconsuming.
This is
even seen in from
the advertisements
we see on social
media or to the food
we buy in grocery
stores andor the or
clothes fromwe buy
at Target.
The moving
assembly line all
started with Henry
Ford when he
mass-produced
the reliable, efficient Model T automobiles in
1913. The purchase of a brand-new car was made
commonplace, a standard of the middle class. Ford
introduced an increase in wages, and shortening
of workdays, and this new manufacturing system
significantly increased productivity.
During World War II, production boomed as
men and women alike worked to manufacture war
goods for soldiers. As soldiers came home postwar,
they saw America’s economy climb out from the
depression of the decade before. The economy
boomed as the consumer could spend more on things
other than just the necessities.
According to American Experience,
Americans purchased 20 million refrigerators, 21.4
million cars, and 5.5 million stoves between 1945 and
1949. While these items were luxurious, they also
served a purpose in making Americans’ day-to-day
lives easier.
The moving assembly line all started with
Henry Ford when he mass-produced the reliable,
efficient Model T automobiles in 1913. The purchase
of a brand-new car was made commonplace, a
standard of the middle class. Ford introduced an
increase in wages, shortening of workdays, and this
new manufacturing system significantly increased
productivity.
When the term “influencer,” is saidis brought
into conversation, a few things come to mind. The
Hydro Flask craze of
my high school days
2020, wheren girls
wore scrunchies and
friendship bracelets
and prided themselves
on which colors they
had. Today, it’s Stanley
cups, pickleball
paddles or belt bags.
From craze to craze,
it’s every musthave
item; one after
anotherright after the
other.
With the innate
desire to in all of us
to fit in, it can be easy
to develop a sense of
peer pressure to have
that Stanley and new
water bottle in just the
right color or, the belt
bag from athe coveted
brand. The psychology of consumerism has been
studied by Psychology Today. They found that humans
we are driven by reward, and purchasing a new item
brings about a surge of dopamine which creates
happiness. Therefore, with each new purchase, a
habit is being formed of looking forward to that next
hit of dopamine however you can get it.
Competitive consumption is the idea that
we keep spending because we’re comparing
ourselves with our peers and what they’re spending.
Society has made it so that social esteem or selfworth
is connected to what one we can consume.
Consumerism isn’t necessarily driven by
“Society has made it so that social
esteem or self-worth is connected
to what we can consume.”
Alice Spring 2024 44

advertising only. People We make our purchases
based on who theywe are influenced by,, or who
are in their our “reference groups,”, which are the
people in close communication or proximityyou
see immediately in front of you, like your neighbors,
coworkers, friends, TV, social media, or movies.
“This is incredibly harmful to one’s
mental health because there is always a focus
on consumption to fit in and increase your social
standing,” says Amy Wallace, a junior studying
political science at the universityThe University of
Alabama. “Constructing one’s own social standing
based on force consumption is very problematic.”
A lot of modern clothing is not made to last
due to the production process moving so quickly.
Manufacturers want to push out products as quickly
as they can to keep up with ever-changing trends, and
in turn, make cheap products with cheap synthetic
fabrics to turn around and sell for cheap.
A celebrity is seen wearing a product, and
immediately, brands compete to be the first to
replicate it at an affordable price. Companies like
Shein, Zara and the author’s beloved American Eagle
jump on these popular celebrities and their hot-topic
clothing items or accessories in order to stay relevant.
And when one trend dies, it
is replaced by another, and in
turn, those articles of clothing
are tossed to the wayside, or
the back row of the closet.
According to Earth.Org, the
world now consumes 400%
more clothing compared to just
20 years ago.
“There have been
popup events at the Student
Center from Shein, as well as
student ambassadors for the
campus that provide discount
codes and influence on social
media. This makes fast fashion
and consumerism attractive
and attainable to all students,
but it does not take into
account the dangers of a fast
fashion company like Shein,”
says Wallace.
“Shein has unsafe
labor practices and overworks
their underage employees,
which is how the items are
so inexpensive. Despite this
information being common
knowledge, consumerism forces our students to not
care. They would rather support an unethical and
problematic company, than fall behind in terms of the
consumeristic trends,.” Wallace continues.
The clothing industry is responsible for 10%
of the world’s annual carbon footprint, according to
ClimateTrade. Many environmental activists call for
the reduction of fast fashion, and rather encourage
consumers to buy quality pieces of clothing at a lesser
frequency. In addition, opting for sustainable brands
that own up to their environmental impact and work to
reduce it is important.
This is something that must be changed, according to
junior chemistry student, Emily Pierce.
“I think some of it is on the consumer to be
more ethical and diligent when purchasing items,”
says Emily Pierce says. , a junior at the University
of Alabama college majoring instudying chemistry.
“Being constantly fed recommendations by
influencers and trends online makes it difficult for an
individual to make the right choice.”
Following this culture of trends, the
electronics field is no better. For every good thing this
era of technological advancement has brought, like
such as connection with other places, knowledge at
45 alice.ua.edu

the touch of our fingertips, efficiency in completing
tasks, and providing and entertainment, with it comes
we continue to leave a heap of waste when a better
product comes along.
If a junior in college today received my their
first cell phone in May 2015, when I was 12 years
oldthey would have been 12 years old. Since then, I
believe I have had four upgrades,If they have received
four upgrades, that would bring them to so a total of
five cell phones with the one I have now. If that is a
total of five phones in seven years, and the average
life span in America is 77 years, that studentI will end
up having an estimated total of 31 phones throughout
my their life. This calculation entirely excludes
laptops, watches, iPods, and iPads. According to a UN
report in 2021, electronic waste is the fastest-growing
form of domestic waste globally.
The clothing industry is responsible for 10%
of the world’s annual carbon footprint, according to
ClimateTrade. Many environmental activists call for
the reduction of fast fashion, and rather encourage
consumers to, to buy quality pieces of clothing at a
lesser frequency. In addition, opting for sustainable
brands that own up to their environmental impact and
work to reduce it is important.
The effects of consumerism can be minimized,
according to , says Dr. Steven Holiday, an assistant
professor in the College of Communications and
Information Sciences. By teaching media and
advertising literacy, older children and teenagers
can “critically view content to determine why they
want something” and understand if an object is a
need or want and why. Having this purposeful line of
communication and understanding is important to
teaching younger generations how to consume.
“As they grow, they consume media this way
and teach their children how to consume it this way,”
Holiday says.
In reflecting on the role of consumerism
through our history, it becomes evident that alongside
societal shifts and technological climbs, our rolethe
role of as consumers has evolved through assemblyline
production and social media influences. The urge
to consume is fueled by a myriad of factors including
social pressures and instant gratification. However,
the importance of acknowledging the damage cannot
be understated. By prioritizing quality over quantity in
our purchases, each person of us can play a part in
reducing the detriment caused by over-consumption.
The As consumers, the power lies with us to shape
our future and strive for a sustainable society.

CONFESSIONS OF A
Photos by Emmy Waugh
Modeled by Shelby Brightwell
Design by Sarah Smith
T
o college girls, there
“I use my one and a quarter
are few things that inch Bio-Ionic hair curler on every
take as much courage client and finish them off with the
as calling their Living Proof Flex Hair Spray,” says
parents to beg for Graysie Holmes, a professional hair
more money because stylist at Image Makers Salon in
they blew through their paycheck Tuscaloosa. Holmes says she uses
in a day or spent their allowance other Living Proof products such as
irresponsibly…. again. They might their shampoo, conditioner and dry
be broke from paying a cover shampoo. Holmes has also been
charge for the bar they frequent or seen using WOW Dream Coat for a
from spending all of their money glossy look and heat protectant.
on Chipotle rather than groceries
The Dyson Air Wrap has
that would have lasted longer. In been a hot topic for those looking
some cases though, a college girl’s to get the perfect blowout look.
dwindling bank account is the Another company, Shark, came
result of purchasing items that an out with a multi-flex styler in order
influencer swore would be amazing to achieve the same results, for a
and worth the splurge. Spoiler alert: couple hundred dollars cheaper.
the item is usually not worth the
“I love that there are so
splurge when said influencer is many attachments that I can use
getting paid to say it is. Some items, and change easily. It cuts the time
however, are worth the splurge, doing my hair in half not having to
even on a college girl’s budget. wait to heat up tools and not having
Locks of Luxury
to wait for them to cool to put it
Everyone can agree that away. Also, with a travel case it’s
waking up to a bad hair day can easy to pack and takes up much
ruin a perfectly good mood.
less space. I don’t need any other
Students and hair professionals on hair tool,” says Rae Seaton, a public
The University of Alabama campus relations student at UA. Other
never miss a good hair day by students credit their perfect hair to
splurging on tools and products Moroccan Oil dry shampoo, WOW
that will promote hair health and styling mousse, It’s a 10 and Dry
style longevity.
Bar High Top rollers.
SHOPAHOLIC
47 alice.ua.edu
By Madeline Schley
Home Body Splurges
Two words: Barefoot
Dreams. Barefoot Dreams has a
range of products from socks to
blankets to robes. Comfort lover
and business student at UA, Gracie
Foy says she has worn her Barefoot
Dreams robe every single day since
she got it. The company is well
known for their cozy blankets that
come in different sizes and colors.
Yes, spending $100 or more on a
robe or blanket can seem foolish,
but any good investor knows that
Barefoot Dreams is one of the only
companies whose products live up
to the hefty price tag.
Once equipped with a
Barefoot Dreams blanket or robe,
the perfect night in just needs the
addition of a Kindle. Reading isn’t
everyone’s thing, but if it is, a Kindle
is definitely worth the splurge.
“Kindles are the ultimate
reading luxury. With an impressive
6-week battery life and distractionfree
tech, Kindles offer a
lightweight and eye-friendly option
for late-night reading. Waterproof,
glare-proof and super portable,
they are perfect to throw in your
backpack or belt bag,” says Mia
Tramontana, a public relations
student at UA.

“But the best part is the free Libby app, which allows you access to all the books from your local library.
With this access, my Kindle has saved me money that I would be spending on too many books. Invest in a
Kindle; you will not regret it,” says Tramontana.
Jetsetter Splurges
To most jetsetters, getting the perfect picture is a must, which is why travel connoisseur Hannah
Fauteux says a digital camera is an absolute necessity. She loves Canon cameras, and says they provide clear
photos that are easily downloadable on the go. Fauteux and her boyfriend live in different countries which
means they are always traveling. The pair decided to invest in good luggage for smoother traveling.
“We both got TravelPro luggage when we realized how hard the traveling was on our suitcases.
I was in Amsterdam and my entire suitcase almost completely ripped when I got it at baggage claim,
it would have made it impossible to travel home. We both decided spending the $200 was worth not
risking another situation like that. Also, TravelPro is so lightweight which means
I
can pack more and not go over the weight limit,” says Fauteux.
Another must have in Fauteux’s eyes is a durable pair of shoes. She
says she always wants to look and feel her best when walking around new
cities, so she never sets out without her Dolce Vita pearl sneakers.
Beauty and Fashion
Saving the best for last, makeup, skin care and fashion.
“I think skincare and face makeup is definitely worth the
splurge. Some of my favorite makeup products are the Georgio
Armani Luminous Silk foundation, NARS liquid blush and
the HUDA Beauty setting powder in cupcake,” says Riley
Key, fashion marketing student at UA. “For skincare, I like
to use Kiehl’s eye cream and the Ole Henriksen peptide
boost moisturizer.”
Other women say their all-time favorite product
is the Dior Addict Lip Glow Oil and another says the
Mugler Alien Goddess perfume is a must because
of the endless compliments it garners. Lastly, the
Patrick Ta blush and bronzer palettes are deemed
worthy of spending more on thanks to their liquid
and powder combination which really brings out
the pigment on all skin types.
As far as fashion goes, Emmy Price,
a senior at UA, says that investing in a good
handbag is always worth it. She says her Marc
Jacobs cross-body has gotten her through all four
years of college and it still looks brand new.
“No matter what brand, it is always better
to invest in a nicer, versatile bag that won’t run
the risk of breaking during a night out,” says
Price.
While these items are undoubtably pricey,
they are products that have proven tried and true
by college aged women and professionals at UA.
Platforms like Tik Tok and Instagram have
made it increasingly more difficult to weed
out the useless products and items from
the useful ones, so it is always smart
to get a second opinion and do some
research before purchasing. After all,
nobody wants useless products and less
pocket money.

u t
A
long week of classes, a celebration of an exam
finally being over or random Tuesday night
can all be perfect reasons for a girls’ night out
(GNO). There’s nothing that encapsulates girlhood
quite like doing hair and makeup, putting on that new
outfit for the occasion and getting together with one’s
best girlfriends to for a night on the town. The girls at
Alice have perfected the GNO in Tuscaloosa.
The great thing about a girls’ night is that it can
be whatever one wants it to be. Whether it be screwtop
wine and soda or $13 cocktails and charcuterie
boards, a girls’ night can be as casual or fancy as
desired. Tuscaloosa has many spots to choose from for
the next girls’ night, ranging from fancy to casual and
everything in between. Even so, the most important
thing about girls’ night is spending quality time with
friends. There are numerous ways to make any girls’
night a night to remember.
The first step to any girls’ night is to establish
the vibe. Exhausted after a long week of class and the
last thing anyone wants to do is touch a makeup brush
or hair tool? Have a girl’s night in! Dying to show off
that new top that just came in the mail? Hit the town!
Either way, figuring out what everyone wants to do is
the first step to a successful girls’ night. Make sure all
members of the group chat agree on the night’s vibe.
Whichever kind of night the group is looking for, there
are various spots all over town.
If the established vibe is leggings and
49 alice.ua.edu
By Anna Grace King
sweatshirts, The Rabbit Hole is the perfect place for
you. With its outdoor patio, expansive food menu
and spiked slushies, The Rabbit Hole is a perfect place
for a casual night out. University of Alabama senior,
Suzanne Ridgway, says she enjoys going to The Rabbit
Hole on a Thursday night to enjoy the atmosphere.
“I love how casual it is,” Ridgway says. “It’s a
great place to sit down and have a few chill drinks, and
I love going when its’ warm outside so we can sit on
the patio.”
If the girls can’t quite agree on a casual or cute
atmosphere, there are many places locally that can
work with going out tops as well as sweatshirts. At Five
Bar there are guests in all types of attire, there for the
purposes of either grabbing a drink or getting a bite to
eat. Five Bar’s simplistic menu of five seasonal dishes
and their signature cocktails create an atmosphere that
suits the casual night with friends or a more luxurious
one.
Another cocktail bar that is appropriate for
all levels of comfort is Catch 22, which is particularly
popular for a weeknight outing. Wine Market is a
wonderful place for wine tasting and snacking on
charcuterie, where people are seen wearing anything
from their Sunday best to their comfiest sweater and
leggings duo. These places are excellent for when the
dress code won’t be decided until last-minute.
Finally, if the group chat agrees that the night
out needs to consist of full glam and fancy outfits,

Tuscaloosa has a multitude of cocktail bars and
restaurants that can make anyone feel as if they are
under the lights of New York City.
Breck Hill, a UA junior, says Session is the best
cocktail bar to go to on a Friday night because of their
drink variety. Session’s moody atmosphere and quality
cocktail menu are sure to elevate the night.
“Every time I go, they have new signature
cocktails which are really fun to try,” Hill says.
Forte and Roll Call Rooftop Bar, both located
in the Alamite Hotel, are wonderful spots with opulent
atmospheres and exceptional food menus. Forte is a
French inspired restaurant and bar, while Roll Call is
an indoor/outdoor establishment that serves sharable
plates like sliders and pizzas.
Cocktail Collection is a new speakeasystyle
cocktail bar that is disguised from University
Boulevard as a run-down Pepsi machine, where
patrons walk up a neon-lit staircase that doubles as a
perfect photo opp.
Brown’s Corner serves up delicious appetizers
as well as delectable drinks, or, if the group is looking
to dine out in luxury, Chuck’s Fish has a rich sushi and
cocktail menu. These are but a few of the local and
indulgent places that Tuscaloosa has to offer.
Of course, there is no rule that says a GNO
must include going out. There are plenty of ways to
make a girls’ night in just as fun as a night on the town.
If the girls are feeling fancier, have everyone make and
serve their own specialty cocktails or have a wine and
make-your-own charcuterie night.
If the vibe is pajamas and inexpensive food, a
wine and movie night or PowerPoint night is a fun way
to ensure laughs. Essentially, one of the best parts of a
girls’ night in is that there are no rules or dress codes
to follow, so make it whatever!
For an amazing resource to plan the perfect
GNO, look no further than to @tuscaloosaupdate
on Instagram. Run by UA students Graham Barnett,
Addie McCrary and Kate Wallace, the account includes
everything anyone needs to know for events and deals
going on at local bars and restaurants. This account
boasts info about specialty cocktails, events like trivia
or bingo nights and deals going on at local places.
Many spots send direct information to the account, so
be sure to look out for their updates.
Barnett, McCrary and Wallace recommend an
espresso martini from Nocturnal Tavern for a cocktail
night out, as well as heading to Moe’s Barbecue on
University Boulevard or Druid City Social for live
music.
The best thing about girl’s night out is that
it isn’t limited to one activity. A GNO can look like
hitting the hottest places in town, watching movies
and singing karaoke; essentially anything that ensures
all the girls are together and having a good time.
Tuscaloosa’s list of extensive bars and restaurants
provide many opportunities to try something different
and potentially find a new favorite spot! However, the
important thing about girl’s night is not where it takes
place but the friends it’s spent with.
Design by Sarah Mitchell
Photos by Sophie Priore
Modeled by Anna Marcellina
Alice Spring 2024 50

NTER
AIN
ENT
51 alice.ua.edu

2024 THE PLOT:
Why Reading is the Resolution You Should Keep
(Or Start Now)
VOICES OF THE FUTURE:
Generation Z and the Hot Labor Summer
WHICH 2000s ROM-COM ARE YOU?
FIFTEEN SECONDS OF FAME:
How TikTok is Changing the Face of Celebrities
PODCASTS:
The New “It” Girl of Digital Media

2024
The Plot:
Why Reading is the Resolution
You Should Keep (Or Start
Now)
53 alice.ua.edu
By Kinsey Williams
If there is one New Year’s resolution to keep,
it is reading.
Though 2024 is well under way, Gen Z
welcomed the year with a “for the plot” mentality
of spontaneity and doing thing “just because,” and
starting the year over in the middle of it certainly
classifies as a plot twist. Despite the comforting
familiarity books are known for, their twists, turns and
excitement benefits anyone seeking this mindset.
For Brooke Dixon, a freshman at The University of
Alabama, the impact of reading proved to be an
unexpected asset in many of the plot twists in her
own life. In December of 2021, Dixon read the “Throne
of Glass” series, unaware that its contents would soon
become an anchor in her life.
Three months after reading the series,
she would have the first of three surgeries on her foot
between 2022 and 2023; the final a major foot surgery
during her last semester of high school. To combat
the pain of moving her foot for the first time following
the removal of 46 stitches, Dixon turned to a quote
she would soon put on her bedroom wall.
“I remember being in physical therapy
my first day, and I kept saying the line, ‘You do not
yield,’ which sounds so cliche and so book nerd of
me,” Dixon says. “But, I kept saying it and would say
it all the time. I had to relearn how to walk, and I said,
‘You don’t yield.’”
Now, with a 16-page-long Word document
full of quotes, Dixon continues to take note of the
ones that resonate with her, unsure of when they will
become relevant in her life, but certain they will come
in handy. A lifelong reader, she still carries with her
the lessons she learned from stories at the age of 12
and watches as their meanings evolve along with her.
“I also love ‘Percy Jackson,’ and so I was like,
‘If these kids can literally go through hell, I can survive
my math test,’” Dixon says. “That’s kind of how I took
it, especially when I was younger. And then I got older,
and it just got more true.”
While UA freshman Jackson Blankenship also
values stories he read when he was younger, he finds
that rereading them increases their impact.
“I feel like if you go back and read through a

novel, you can get a lot more meaning from it the
more you have learned from your actual, real-world
experience,” Blankenship says.
Just as reality can reveal the truth in fiction,
as Blankenship says, the reverse can be true as well.
Though he read it as a high school sophomore, he
already credits “The Great Gatsby” with how he will
respond to future circumstances.
“It opened my eyes
to struggle like I haven’t
seen it before; struggle
on obtaining things that
you wanted a lot more
than a basic goal set for
yourself, like obtaining
love, obtaining money,
obtaining fame – how
sometimes that just can’t
work out,” Blankenship
says. “That has prepared
me. It prepared me for my
adult life [if], say, I didn’t
get a job, didn’t get a role.”
Reading can
also act as a tool to help
readers embrace life’s
spontaneity. Heather Cass
White, UA English professor
and author of “Books
Promiscuously Read,”
relishes the act of reading in
the moment and expecting
later epiphanies.
“I tend not to know
what really affects me until
long afterward,” White says.
“It’s like I get hit over the
head and then it takes me
a long time just to recover
and figure out what it was
that made such a huge
impact on me.”
However, these
revelations should not be
considered the only goal
of reading. In fact, unlike
most resolutions, a goal-oriented mindset hinders
reading’s full effect.
“I think [reading without a goal] is the only
way to do it,” White says, “and if you do that, you get
changed and guided and moved in all kinds of ways
“I feel like if you go
back and read through
a novel, you can get
a lot more meaning
from it the more you
have learned from
your actual, real-world
experience,”
Blankenship says.
that you never could have anticipated.”
Despite the value placed on its academic
benefits, reading can fall into the realm of another
popular resolution that is often lost in the year’s
chaos: self-care. In a society easily whisked away
by the excitement of potential character arcs,
taking time for revisions, especially through doing
something simply for the joy of it, is often viewed
as selfish or a waste of
time. According to White,
however, reading is “what
you should be doing.”
“Read as much as you
can. If I could leave you
with any one thought, it
would be to never, ever,
ever feel guilty about
reading,” White says. “I
wish I could just eradicate
that feeling in humankind.
When you’re reading, you
are doing something good
and important. Absolutely
put your to-do list aside; do
not worry about it. Just sit
down and read.”
Though 2024 is well in
motion, there is always time
to rewrite it. For the gogetters
who have followed
through with their January
promises, continue forward
passionately and guiltlessly.
And for those who need the
chance to start, Happy New
Year.
Design by Sarah Mitchell
Photos by Hannah Grace Mayfield
Modeled by Bella Richardson
Alice Spring 2024 54

Voices of the
FUTURE
Generation Z and the
Hot Labor Summer
By Perri Larkin
55 alice.ua.edu

S
ummer 2023 did not see a “Hot Girl
Summer,” for that is far too individualistic.
Instead, workers across the United States
mobilized, marched and demanded
change with hundreds of unionized and
non-unionized coworkers alike in their industries.
It was, without a doubt, a Hot Labor Summer. From
pilots to United Postal Services (UPS) drivers to
Amazon employees, the pressure has been palpable,
as employees demand higher wages and more
accommodating work conditions.
Yet these tensions do not even encompass what
most Americans picture when they think of labor
relations in 2023. Their minds conjure waves of red
shirt-wearing autoworkers in Detroit, and actors and
screenwriters mutually hoisting black and yellow
banners in sunny Hollywood.
Christian Martin, a sophomore at The
University of Alabama majoring in history and
theatre and a member of the International Workers
of the World, says 2023 especially marked a turning
point in the development of labor.
“The SAG-AFTRA strikes were great in
getting publicity for unions and for Gen-Z-ers to care
more about labor.” For most members of Gen Z, they
cannot remember a time with similar labor unrest,
but unions have had a long, rocky history in the
United States.
Until 1842, union membership could be
classified and prosecuted as “criminal conspiracy.”
The Pullman railroad strike, comprised of 250,000
railroad workers, was fatally put down by federal
troops. In 1914, over 1,000 coal workers went on
strike in Colorado and established a tent city while
attempting to negotiate. To break the strike, the
Colorado National Guard set the settlement on fire
and fought with the miners until the arrival of federal
troops, resulting in a disputed number of deaths
that could number in the hundreds. Neither of
these efforts by workers resulted in any changes in
conditions or pay.
Outcomes to these stories began to change
under the administration of Franklin Delano
Roosevelt, when the federal government passed
the National Labor Relations Act, which ensured
the right for workers to unionize and to strike as a
method of protest. Additionally, the administration
enacted the Fair Labor Standards Act, guaranteeing
a minimum wage (25 cents, or $5.40 adjusted for
inflation), a forty-hour work week or time-and-a-half
overtime pay and prohibiting child labor.
Union membership reached its highest point
in the U.S. in 1954. At this time, unions did not just
negotiate with companies on behalf of members
— they were civic as well as fraternal organizations
with frequent chapter meetings, non-businessrelated
social events and leadership opportunities.
However, that is not to say that unions created
utopias; most prominent unions barred membership
by people of color and women.
For reasons debated, union membership fell
rapidly in the 1970s. They lost their influence over
the Democratic party and moderate Republicans.
A near-fatal blow was dealt to unions by Ronald
Reagan in 1981, when he responded to an illegal
strike by federally employed air traffic controllers
by firing every participant. With only a slight
bump in membership after the 2008 Recession,
union membership now sits at a mere 10% of the
total population, even though a Gallup poll found
a historic approval rating of unions at 71% of
Americans.
While unions today may acknowledge their
past, their core pillar is the promise of a better future
for their members. Most often, this takes the form
of raises to account for rising costs of living, but for
the three most publicized strikes of 2023, there is an
added element of anxiety about the future of their
industries.
United Auto Workers (UAW) went on strike
to secure jobs in the face of less-labor intensive
electric vehicle manufacturing, and both the Writers’
Guild of America (WGA) and the Screen Actors
Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio
Artists (SAG-AFTRA) protested the use of artificial
intelligence to write scripts or reuse their likeness
when creating new media. Additionally, all three
groups secured contractual raises to combat rapidly
rising costs of living, much to the approval of the
young public.
Polling shows Gen Z is the most pro-union
generation. This generation has made its voice
especially prominent in growing conversations of the
future of striking culture and labor rights.
Chance Phillips, a junior year studying
political science and economics at UA and a
member of the United Campus Workers says, “It
is young workers who are hard at work organizing
Starbucks, Trader Joe’s and other companies despite
illegal unionbusting. You also can’t ignore the years
and years of union organizing on college campuses.
Campus labor unions and young labor organizers
Alice Spring 2024 56

Design by Meagan Riordan
57 alice.ua.edu
aren’t some new phenomena, but it sure seems like
the wind is at their back.”
Despite widespread support and the greatest
positive publicity for labor advocates in many years,
there are grey areas for labor as the world develops
and changes and advocates face pushback from
major corporations.
“I think there are two prongs of what Gen Z will
be pitching for: AI in the workplace replacing peoples’
jobs … and people not being compensated for that.
We are the first people who will have to be dealing
with that upon entering the workplace,” says Rachel
Pierce, a sophomore studying political science and
history at UA. “I also think a lesser issue we have been
debating as a generation concerns family influencers
becoming a thing. I think Gen Z will advocate on
behalf of kids working on the internet.”
Ethan Henry, a junior majoring in economics
at UA, wants to see “the labor movement serve as a
jumping-off point for other social causes…across the
globe.”
Traditionally, unions have covered careers
in industry, which stemmed from unsafe working
conditions as well as underpay in factories.
Martin adds, “Gen Z has a lot to do, especially
with drives to unionize fast food industries like
restaurants, the Starbucks union drives, and then the
Amazon union drives.”
The drive to unionize service work are
relatively new, but not infrequent, with major
examples being Starbucks Workers United, United
Restaurant Workers and the Union of Southern
Service Workers, among many others.
“Gen Z is generally burnt out on politics, so I’m
not sure how instrumental we will be to the traditional
routes of politicking for labor rights, but I’m also
cautiously optimistic,” says Pierce. “Because Gen Z
is getting these degrees and they’re not meaning a
lot, people are getting college degrees and are still
ending up working in restaurants and coffee shops,
and other lower-paying jobs. I hope that this will push
Gen Z to fight for a higher minimum wage.”
In other cases, Gen Z’s voice expresses
concern over maintaining interest in continuing the
fight for labor rights.
Martin says “I wish we’d see more interest
amongst youth in less heralded strikes” that do not
have “A-listers” backing them.
In particular, Martin referred to the Brookwood
Coal Strike, the longest strike by coal miners in the
state of Alabama. In 2016, miners willingly took pay
and benefits cuts to prevent the company from going
bankrupt, but by 2022 they had not received any
raises to return them to former wages, much less

offset rising costs of living, so they conducted the
strike.
There are many stories of less glorious
strikes, with much less fervor over social media.
According to Phillips, “Many young people are
finding out about the benefits of union membership
online.”
However, Martin explains that there is also
the potential for “performative activism, as folks
feel like they’ve done enough to offer support, but
they forgo physical actions such as writing to their
congresspeople or pushing for more pro-labor
candidates.”
It is not to be understated how difficult being
on strike can be — from the stress of only being
monetarily supplemented by the union to physical
exertion to the uncertainty of the future. While social
media may be a tried-and-true method for raising
awareness among Gen Z, an institution such as a
union depends on a strong feeling of camaraderie,
meaning that uniting cannot be a solely digital affair.
“I hope people continue to organize and go
to meetings and go to rallies and picket together
because I think that’s what gives people the strength
to keep going when they’re on strike,” says Pierce.
There is a common understanding that a
foundational feeling of solidarity must be maintained
should labor rights continue to be realized, and
in some ways, members of Gen Z are looking to
the past to offset the potential feelings of distance
created by advocacy over social media.
Pierce says, “Unions of the past did not only
prioritize getting rights, but recognizing that once
you have those rights, it’s time to enjoy your life —
work to live not live to work — the reason that we’re
fighting is so we have time with our family and time
with our friends. Building up [fraternal] relationships
within the union emphasizes that there is a reason
that we’re fighting for this.”
Similarly, Martin says, “Local union halls were
great for helping spread fraternal spirits and deepen
solidarity amongst workers alongside providing
much needed leisure opportunities and now more
than ever this needs to be encouraged.”
As Gen Z finds solidarity among their peers
and lessons in the past, they find ample room for the
reestablishment, development and the advancement
of labor rights in the United States, in traditional
industries and new frontiers.

2000s
Which
ROM-COM are
YOU?By Emily Crousore
1. Which of these personality traits describe you?
A) Spunky B) Determined C) Dreamer D) Planner
2. Which occupation sparks your interest?
A) Writer B) Publisher C) Editor of a fashion magazine D) Wedding/Event planner
3. What is your favorite pastime hobby?
A) Watching sporting events B) What hobby? My job is my life. C) Creating a vision board for the future
D) Playing board games
4. What is your favorite snack?
A) Cucumber sandwiches B) Coffee C) Candy, specifically razzles D) Popcorn
5. What would be your theme song?
A) You’re So Vain B) Get Low C) Thriller D) Wedding March
6. What is your favorite color?
A) Yellow B) Black C) Pink D) Purple
7. What is your ideal date?
A) Playing card games with the family B) Going for a boat ride C) Working together on a passion project
D) Going to watch a movie in the park
8. Which outfit are you most likely to wear?
A) Jeans with a leather jacket B) Business Suit C) Bright, colorful dress D) Long skirt and tight sweater
9. What is your go-to drink?
A) Diet Coke B) Whiskey C) Slushie D) Champagne
10. Which hairstyle suits you the best?
A) Natural Curls B) Ponytail C) Space Buns D) Slick back, half up and half down
59 alice.ua.edu

Mostly A’s: How To Lose a Guy in 10 Days
Like Andie Anderson, you are full of spunk and never back down to a challenge.
You take assignments very seriously and would do anything for your writing.
Unlike other girls, you would take going to a basketball game over anything
else. When you are not trying to be someone else, your style is edgy and casual.
You also probably know all the words to, “You’re so Vain,” due to past relationship
troubles. When it comes to love, you can fall quickly...even if it is with a stranger.
Mostly B’s: The Proposal
Like Margaret Tate, you are determined, hardworking and nothing will get in
your way of success. You are the boss in all aspects of life because you believe
the only person you can rely on in life is you. You will do anything to stay on
top, perhaps even fake an engagement. However, once you let people in,
you can be carefree and silly. You like your love to have fire in it and you need
someone who is not afraid to call you out.
Mostly C’s: 13 Going on 30
Like Jenna Rink, you have been a dreamer forever. As a kid, you would sneak
into your mother’s closet to try on her high heels and steal her eyeshadow.
Fashion is your true calling, and vision boards help you keep all your dreams
in one place. You have always felt the need to fit in and be popular. However,
someone in your life has been a constant through every awkward stage of life.
When it comes to love, all you genuinely want in a partner is a best friend.
Most D’s: The Wedding Planner
Like Mary Fiore, you are type A organized and live with your planner in your hand. Your
family means the world to you, and you would do anything to make your parents happy. You
are very driven in your work because you absolutely love it. Passion is your driving source.
Your hair is always done, and your outfits are planned the night before, just so you always
look and feel your best. Love is not really a priority for you, but when it comes, you cannot
deny it.
Design By Sarah Smith
Alice Spring 2024 60

How TikTok is
Changing the Face
of Celebrities
By Gabby Haynes
Design by Sarah Smith
61 alice.ua.edu
T
ikTok is a familiar social media platform with
an enormous user base, allowing its most
popular faces to gain millions of followers
and launch themselves to fame. Creators can
get thousands of views from creating “get
ready with me” videos, opening packages or
even lip-syncing to a popular song. Businesses can make
accounts and advertise products to a wider audience and
artists are able use their platform to promote new music.
Creators who become popular on social media are
generally called influencers. On the lifestyle side of TikTok,
fans follow what they wear, what makeup products they
use and keep up with their lives.
A highly popular TikTok influence, Alix Earle is a
perfect example. Many people joked, or were serious, in
videos and comments on TikTok about applying to The
University of Miami just to catch a glimpse of Earle. Fans
bought the makeup products she used and copied her
entire routine to try to look like her. Earle has been invited
to events such as the Grammy’s, featured on many popular
podcasts such as “Call Her Daddy,” and was a special
guest on The Kelly Clarkson Show this past October. The
power of social media is prevalent, and Earle used it in her
favor.
Kylan Darnell, a sophomore at The University of
Alabama, became a popular influencer on TikTok during
sorority recruitment and is known for saying: “Have a great
day not just a good day!”
Students and followers first connected with her
online presence due to her posting relatable videos about
her life as a student. Darnell first went viral during Bama
Rush, but continues to rise in popularity through her
videos unboxing, filming “get ready with me’s” and much
more. Because of her fame, she has been invited to PR
events for brands such as Anastasia Beverly Hills and
Revolve.
“I don’t really consider myself famous, but I am
super grateful and honored that people watch my videos
and interact with them,” says Darnell. “I absolutely love
when little girls tell me I’m their role model. It means the
world to me that I have been able to experience many
wonderful opportunities.”
Darnell plans to continue her social media journey
because of her love of sharing her life and connecting with
others, as it has become a huge part of her.
TikTok star Darcy McQueeny is another former
student at The University of Alabama who rose to
influencer status. McQueeny went viral on TikTok and

currently has 1.7 million followers. She is known for
posting “get ready with me” videos and unboxing
PR packages from popular companies. Prior to her
graduation in May of 2023, many students would
post pictures when they would see her on campus.
McQueeny became somewhat of a local celebrity.
“I know people who used to order the same
Starbucks drink as her,” says UA student Grace
Llewellyn. “Once she graduated, other influencers
took her place on campus. Now we look to other
people for the same trends.”
Organizations and businesses use TikTok the
same way influencers do. They look to promote their
goals, events and their mission. Sororities UA can
do the same thing. They promote their sisterhood
events to their audience of alumni and potential new
members to gain an audience interested in becoming
members alongside them.
Natalie Davis is the vice president of public
relations and marketing for the Alpha Chi Omega
(AXO) sorority at The University of Alabama. Davis is
in charge of posting to the sorority’s social media
such as TikTok and Instagram. She makes graphics,
organizes posts and creates videos to reflect the
qualities of the sorority for others to see.
“In my role, I handle all sorts of things,
from banners to our Instagram and even our
yearly newsletter,” says Davis. “It truly is so
rewarding to get to show them these girls
off and brag on them every day. I love getting
to see my vision for the brand of Alpha Chi
Omega come to life.”
Because of Davis, AXO’s social media
following has grown significantly and their
TikTok account has over 6,000 followers.
Another industry using TikTok for their
benefit is the music industry. Since music
artists know millions of people use the app,
they understand the potential to gain a wider
audience from posting their new songs.
Tate McRae used to post her music on
YouTube and switched to short-form
videos on TikTok in the last couple
of years. When her videos went
viral, she gained enough
of a following to go
on a tour around the
United States in 2024.
Other examples of
this phenomenon of
TikTok celebrity are
artists like Lil Nas
X, Måneskin, Doja
Cat and Lizzo. If an artist’s song is used in a TikTok
dance, viewers and followers are able see other songs
under their profile, exposing fans to more of that
artist’s catalog.
“I find so many music influencers I love on
TikTok, and I keep adding their songs to my playlists,”
says Llewellyn. “Sometimes already influential artists
post their new songs on TikTok. The second Selena
Gomez posted she was releasing her song ‘Single
Soon,’ I added it to my playlist, and it has been on
repeat for months.”
TikTok has incredible potential for rising
influencers and artists. Through short videos, they are
able to acquire brand deals, ambassadorships and
ultimately rise to fame. Overall, TikTok is an incredibly
powerful app, whether by making content, or just
scrolling through it.
Alice Spring 2024 62

PODCASTS:
The New “It” Girl of
Digital Media
By Alana Chavez
In the ever-changing world of
digital media, podcasts are
stealing the spotlight, drawing
in audiences and transforming
the way the world consumes
content.
As society continues to
develop and transform, on-thego
lifestyles have become more
popular, and podcasts have
become a go-to companion.
Whether it be walking to class,
working on an assignment,
hanging out with friends or simply
relaxing, podcasts can be by
listeners’ sides every step of the
way.
In the past, live TV
shows were many people’s
primary source of entertainment.
However, as the world continues
to advance, people have
taken a step away from
live TV. The format of live
broadcast TV requires
time commitment and
undivided attention,
whereas podcasts
don’t.
“I listen to
podcasts almost
every day,”sayd
Bradley Mandik,
a student at The
University of
Tennessee. “They
are easier and more
accessible. I can
listen to them anywhere at any
time.”
The relaxed and informal
approach to podcasting creates
an enjoyable environment for
both the audience and host.
Many of today’s most popular
podcasts adopt a relaxed and
casual style, allowing hosts
to converse with viewers
comfortably in their coziest
pajamas.
For example, Avery
Woods, known for her presence
on TikTok, brings a causal vibe
to her Podcast,
“Cheers,”by
filming in comfortable
loungewear on plush chairs and
couches.
Continuing the
exploration of accessible,
comfortable and relaxed
podcasting, Maddi Brown, the cohost
of the “Locker Room Ladies”
podcast provides insight into her
thoughts on the accessibility of
podcasting for content creators.
“In today’s world where
content is king, people want
to be able to consume content
all the time,” Brown says.
“Utilizing a platform
like podcasting,
where
people
63 alice.ua.edu

can consume your content while multitasking,
provides another avenue for creators to get their
content in front of an audience.”
Not only are podcasts the new “it” thing,
they can also be seen as a rite of passage for many
public figures. It is common for celebrities to launch
their own podcasts once they find themselves with
a larger following. Alix Earle’s podcast “Hot Mess,”
Logan Paul’s “Impaulsive” and the Kelce brothers’
“New Heights” are all notable examples of this
phenomenon.
Overall, podcasting has become an important
move for influencers and celebrities looking to keep
their names in the headlines. Alix Earle began “Hot
Mess” after gaining a large following, making it her
go-to spot to produce content. Logan Paul started
“Impaulsive” after obtaining a large YouTube following,
giving his fans a new way to connect. The Kelce
brothers started “New Heights” after many years in
the spotlight, allowing their fans to hear recaps of
their weeks and life updates.
Podcasts also serve as a space that enables
individuals from different worlds to connect. For
instance, the Nelk Boys, YouTubers known for their
pranks, had Elon Musk, billionaire and creator of
Tesla, as a guest on their show, “Full Send Podcast.”
Before the rise in podcast popularity, collaborations of
this caliber were uncommon, if not altogether nonexistent.
As the podcast phenomenon continues to
reshape the world of digital media, an important
question emerges: Is the trend of influencers entering
the world of podcasting a positive thing, and can
this trend maintain its momentum over time?
Many people believe influencers cannot stay
in the podcasting race, while others might
argue they can.
Andie Segura, a junior at The
University of Alabama, says, “I think
it’s fine for influencers to start
podcasts. If they want to and
have something to say, great. I
think the issue is when people
only make them to be trendy
because it feeds into the
trend culture, which isn’t
sustainable.”
While podcasts
in general have gained
a substantial amount
of popularity in the
last couple of years,
it is possible for this
momentum to fizzle. With how fast-paced the world is
today; it is remarkable for platforms to stay popular for
more than a couple of years.
Camryn Haag, a junior at UA, says, “I think
that podcasts as a trend will fizzle out… I think
overall, once the celebrities get bored, the trend that
celebrities make podcasts once they have a following
will fizzle out.”
The podcast phenomenon has taken over
the world and revolutionized the realm of digital
media, catering to on-the-go lifestyles and becoming
a primary platform for content production and
consumption. The current casual, influencer-driven
nature of podcasting has reshaped the content for
podcasts. However, there are concerns about the
trend’s sustainability. Given the fast-paced nature of
today’s world, the fate of podcasts relies on creators’
adaptability and indispensability.
Design by Sarah Smith
Photos by Alisha Power
Modeled by Jamie Brault &
Isabella Richardson

(page #) alice.ua.edu
Photos by Josha Charlery
Modeled by Elizabeth Rice, Sam Koryn,
Kyla Knickrehm and Emilia Obilites

Alice Spring 2024 (page #)

OOD&
EALTH
67 alice.ua.edu

SOCIAL MEDIA’S CULINARY REVOLUTION:
Bringing People Together Through Food
SPRING! SPRANG! SPRING...CLEANING?
BUILDING YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH YOU
TUSCALOOSA EATS:
Dishes, Dives and Delights
BEYOND THE BITE:
Evaluating Your Girl Dinner

Bringing People Together Through Food
By Ashlynne Suder
In the age of digital connectivity, social media
platforms and influencers have become powerful
catalysts for change in various aspects of life. One
notable transformation is the way people engage
with cooking and food. From easy recipes or complex
culinary creations to crafting the perfect cocktail,
social media has emerged as a dynamic force that not
only inspires but also brings people together in the
kitchen.
Social media outlets such as Instagram,
TikTok and YouTube have seen an influx of culinary
influences who showcase their cooking skills and
share delightful recipes with their audience. These
influencers, armed with captivating visuals and
engaging content, have turned cooking into a trendy
and accessible activity.
One such influencer, Taylor Chace
(@ChaceKitchen), has gained a massive following for
her at home, easy to follow recipes that cater to both
beginners and seasoned cooks. She creates delicious
recipes for all different types of food.
“People used to feel intimidated by complex
recipes, but now we have the ability to make
short videos with step-by-step guides on different
platforms, like TikTok, where anyone can feel
confident in the kitchen,” Chace says. She believes
that social media has played a crucial role in allowing
people to enjoy the cooking process.
Chace’s approach is more than just sharing
recipes; it’s about fostering a sense of community.
Her engaging content encourages followers to try
new recipes, share their cooking experiences and
connect with each other through a shared love for
food.
“The kitchen is a universal space where
people can come together, disregarding their
69 alice.ua.edu

ackground or location. Social media amplifies that
connection, turning it into a widespread culinary
conversation,” Chace says.
Social media platforms have evolved into a
diverse ecosystem where individuals with varying
culinary interests can find content tailored to their
preferences. Whether someone is looking for quick
and healthy recipes or aiming to master the art of
gourmet cooking, there is a platform and influencer
for every plate.
Social media is a treasure trove of culinary
inspiration for everyone around the globe, including
college student Kaylie Herzberger. Herzberger
belongs to the growing community of individuals who
watch and recreate the content shared by influencers.
She finds joy in trying out new recipes and connecting
with others who share similar culinary interests.
“Social media has this incredible ability to
help me grow my culinary skills. I see a recipe on
Instagram or TikTok and try it out. I notice myself
finding more recipes that make me want to cook,”
Herzberger says.
According to Herzberger, the interactive
nature of social media platforms has transformed the
solitary act of cooking into a communal experience.
“I have made connections and gotten new followers
through the shared love for certain dishes and
cooking techniques. It is amazing how just interacting
with one influencer’s video can create a chain
reaction of finding new recipes as well as finding new
friends to connect with,” Herzberger says.
While the rise of social media in the culinary sphere
has undoubtedly created greater access to recipes
and cooking tips, it also raises questions about
nutritional awareness.
Dr. Cherie Simpson, a registered nutritionist,
emphasizes the need for a balanced approach
when navigating the culinary content available
online.
“Social media has become an influential force in
driving people into the kitchen, but it is also crucial
for everyone to understand a balance between
indulgence and nutritional awareness,” Simpson
says.
She advises individuals to be discerning consumers
of online culinary content and make choices that
align with their specific health goals.
“Influencers play a significant role in
shaping people’s food choices. It is essential for
influencers to promote not just deliciousness, but
also nutritional balance,” she adds.
Simpson suggests that followers can
enhance their culinary journey by seeking out
influencers who prioritizes nutritional value in their
recipes.
“It’s about enjoying the process of cooking while
making informed choices about the ingredients you
use. Social media can be a tool for empowerment in
the kitchen, with nutritional knowledge at its core,”
Simpson says.
The convergence of social media and culinary
exploration is creating a powerful narrative of
connection and shared experiences. Influencers are
not just sharing recipes, they are cultivating kitchens
where individuals can absorb content, experiment and
build connections.
The kitchen, once confined to physical spaces,
is now expanding its boundaries through the digital
realm. Social media’s culinary revolutions are not
just about recipes; they are about the joy of cooking,
the thrill of experimentation and most importantly
the connections forged over shared meals. As more
people embrace the call of the kitchen, the online
culinary community continues to grow, turning
ordinary moments into shared celebrations of food.
Design by Meagan Riordan
Alice Spring 2024 70

Spring! Sprang! Spring...
Cleaning?
By Haley Morgan
71 alice.ua.edu
Oh winter…spending three cold,
long and bitter months cozied up
underneath thick blankets, bingewatching
Harry Potter movies and drinking
hot chocolate for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Basking in the comfort of a toasty home is
nothing short of perfect…until one morning
the blinding sun beams through the windows
and pollen sneezes come back with a
vengeance.
While spring ushers in immaculate
weather, it also shines a light on the dark,
cozy days, revealing dusty shelves, rotting
laundry and the stale scent of last night’s
microwavable chicken nuggets. Who knew
that rewatching “The Holiday” every day
would distract from necessary chores? But
alas, spring has sprung, and a deep cleaning
is in order. Slap on those rubber gloves; it’s
time to get down and dirty.
To begin, Susan Ellis of Northport
Maids in America recommends recruiting
a partner
“You want to have a partner, someone
who has your back and makes it easier,”
Ellis says.
Who doesn’t love to jam out to good
breakup songs with their best friend…
and clean?
BATHROOM
Why not start with the most dreaded
cleaning location? Get it out of the way!
It is easier to start at the toilet and scrub the
inside of the bowl with a cleaning wand. To
finish off, run a wet wipe around the entire
outer toilet to make the porcelain gleam.
Cleaning the shower requires a
tad more effort, so unfortunately, merely
misting the shower with a disinfectant will
not produce a shiny finish. To properly clean
a shower, the walls and floor need a good
scrub with a sponge and a rinse with a
healthy dose of water. Repeat this process for
a squeaky-clean sink.
As for shower curtains, it is easy to
clean a fabric curtain by throwing it in the
wash. Plastic liners should be thrown away
and replaced every six months.
As for final touches on the bathroom, it’s
important to dispose of sponges afterwards,
given that they can become a cesspool
of bacteria.
DUSTING
Oh dust…somehow it lays its pesky
blanket on top of everything, which is why
dusting is so necessary. First, take everything
off the shelves and countertops; flat surfaces
are a magnet for dust. This can be a great
opportunity to declutter. Give each surface a
wipe then replace or revamp the décor.
Rachel Gibbs, a junior studying criminal
justice at The University of Alabama, says,
“My most favorite chore is wiping down
surfaces as I love a clean countertop or desk,
that way, I have a fresh, clean space to
work on.”
If there was an Island of Misfit Chores,
cleaning the fan blades and window blinds
would be lifetime residents. Fan blades and
window blinds are prime suspects of dust-

collecting and are screaming for a good wipe down.
Running a feather duster across each blade and blind
will do the trick.
To avoid any residual dust scattering the floor, it is
important to vacuum after dusting.it is important to
vacuum after dusting.
WINDOWSILLS & BASEBOARDS
There’s no describing the horror of opening
the blinds on a lovely spring day, only to be met with
a graveyard of bugs and dust on the windowsill.
Scooping them up with a paper towel and scrubbing
the sill will do the trick and fend off the bugs’ friends.
Baseboards deserve the same treatment. Be warned
though, some baseboards and windowsills require
more love and scrubbing than others.
GLASS CLEANING
Pesky fingerprints find their way onto anything
glass. Luckily, they are easily wiped away with a little
mist from a glass cleaner. The mirrors and appliances
in a household are the perfect places to
start spritzing.
APPLIANCES
Anything that has housed food at any point
needs to be cleaned. The oven, stovetop, refrigerator,
microwave, dishwasher and kitchen sink all fall under
this category. Yes, the tomato soup that exploded in
the microwave four months ago is still there. A simple
scrub with a disinfectant wipe will get rid of the
crusty food. As for the fridge, dispose of old leftovers,
anything expired and all things moldy.
TRASH & TRASH CANS
Trash should be taken out often to avoid the
lingering stench of last week’s breakfast. An easy way
to prevent that grime from building up is to give the
trash can a good scrub every week.
FINAL TOUCHES
Sweep or vacuum, then scrub the floors with a
mop or Swiffer. Ellis advises to mop the bathroom last
and sanitize the mop to avoid cross-contamination.
Finish off with a spritz of air freshener.
While it may be a new season, there is no rush to get
all the cleaning done in one day.
Sheri Kahl, retired middle school science
teacher and cleaning extraordinaire, says, “When I
start a project, I like to finish it in that one-day period,
but when they are very large projects it takes me up to
a week.”
Selecting one task to complete from start to
finish will ease the pressure of a long chore list.
Ellis suggests, “You don’t want to leave a room until
it’s done. Start a room top to bottom, left to right,
cleanest to dirtiest.” Having a strategy and tackling
one room at a time eases the workload and helps to
stay organized.
Spring cleaning is all about decluttering and
rejuvenation after a long winter hibernation.
Kahl says she enjoys cleaning because “it
gives [her] the satisfaction of completeness.”
“When everything is in its spot, I feel a sense
of calm and that I can relax,” Kahl says.
Ellis takes it a step further, saying, “Being in a mess
can cause fogginess, depression, anxiety and feelings
of worthlessness. Having a clean home after a
long day of work is one less thing you have to do. It
brings up your spirit and makes you feel like you got
something accomplished.”
Gibbs says this philosophy is especially
important for college students.
“Making sure that my apartment stays tidy
is what keeps me in a good head space along with a
positive attitude,” Gibbs says.
As a college student, keeping up with chores
is a chore itself, but it is easy to maintain a clean
environment after a seasonal deep clean.
“Maintaining a clean living space in college
contributes to both physical and mental well-being,
supports academic focus and helps create a positive
and inviting environment for yourself and others,”
Gibbs says. “It’s a small investment of time that can
have significant benefits in various aspects of your
college experience.”
Kahl’s final advice to college students trying to
stay afloat is: “Homework, clean and then enjoy life.”
Design by Sarah Mitchell
Alice Spring 2024 72

Building Your
Relationship
with You
By Maggie Esnard
73 alice.ua.edu

Everyone always talks about working on their
relationships with partners, friends or family, but
there’s rarely any talk about building a relationship
with oneself. Though self-care is trending, there’s not
much talk about self-relationship care.
When someone mentions self-care, the immediate
image brought to mind is probably an ASMR TikTok of
someone doing their skincare routine.
But there is so much more to self-care than following a
skincare routine.
Self-care is taking care of emotional, psychological
and social well-being. When a person is not taking care of
themselves, the way they act, feel, make choices and tend
to their personal relationships can be harmed.
When one does not listen to themselves, they can
feel trapped in a cycle of vicious negative actions and
thoughts. When tasks build up, it can seem impossible to
tackle that monstrous to-do list. However, the only way to
work through is to do.
The University of Alabama’s counseling center
has resources for healthy relationships that help create a
guide for a better self-relationship or “make the difference
between a positive and negative college experience.”
The choices one makes can have lasting, life-long
consequences so it is important to distinguish between
the healthy and unhealthy.
First, there must be mutual respect. The body and
the mind are separate entities, and it is important to listen
to them when either are overworked or overstressed.
It’s easy to quickly become burnt out from stress if selfimposed
limits are ignored.
Emma Cate Dailey is a sophomore double
majoring in public relations and English and is no stranger
to stress. Between balancing her busy extracurricular
schedule and assignment deadlines, Dailey has had to
learn to prioritize herself.
“Usually when I start feeling run-down, I will take
a day off and let my body catch up. This usually happens
when I’ve got a ton on my plate between my personal life
and school,” Dailey says.
Her day off includes catching up on homework,
laundry, eating at a nice restaurant or calling her friends.
“I like to call it my catch-up day,” she explains, “It’s
my favorite way to recuperate.”
Allison Harty, a junior nursing major at The
University of Alabama at Birmingham, incorporates
similar tactics in her hectic schedule. Harty likes to have
options and ways of staying in touch with herself.
“Spending time in the sun, listening to music or
running really helps me self-reflect,” says Harty.
If she needs to look internally, an activity that
requires quiet helps. When she needs to rest, Harty finds
that expressing her creative side through writing, curating
a Pinterest board or watching a comfort movie will allow

her body to relax.
Another important aspect of a healthy selfrelationship
is a “give and take.” In romantic dynamics
and friendships, it is important to have balance
and cooperation. The same can be said in a selfrelationship.
A person can take all the body has to offer
but must give back and let themselves recover.
Unlike a two-person dynamic, the body cannot leave
the person, so it does the next best thing: it stops
cooperating.
Sometimes sickness, depression, insomnia
and exhaustion that never lets up are all signs the
body is overworked. The body is able to recognize the
imbalance in the relationship and begins to demand
what it needs.
Finally, a person should frequently evaluate
their relationship with themselves.
“While no relationship is perfect and we all
have bad days, students should be able to evaluate
their relationships and feel, on the whole, that they
are positive and healthy,” suggests the Counseling
Center. It is important to make sure this step is being
taken to constantly stay in tune, both internally and
externally.
Harty has always had a deep connection
with her mental state and constantly evaluates her
relationship with herself.
“I was an only-child until I was about twelve
and was always very independent. It probably
influenced how I understand myself, since I spent
most of my time by myself,” says Harty.
It wasn’t until high school that Harty truly
understood why being in touch with herself mattered.
“I’m an emotional person, and people liked to point
that out. After a while, I started to question the ‘why’
of it all. Why was I emotional over small things?”
Harty says. “This introspectiveness ignited my desire
to learn about myself, because if I knew the ‘why’
then I could justify my actions, thoughts, emotions
and all the other things.”
Harty realized when her self-relationship and
self-harmony are unbalanced, she cannot give herself
to others.
75 alice.ua.edu

“It’s hard to pour into others when your glass is empty.
When I don’t feel my best, I can’t support others in as
full of a capacity as I would like,” Harty explains.
“Life is full of moving parts, but I am the only
constant,” says Harty. In thirty years, she does not
want to look back and regret not having a better
self-relationship. She acknowledges the trials and
tribulations of life are easier to weather if she knows
who she is.
“I was created to do hard things, to encourage
others, to make a difference in people’s lives. That
is only possible if I allow grace and compassion
into myself first,” Harty says. The boundaries Harty
imposes help her to live her life in a way in which she
can be proud.
Sometimes people just need a reminder
that it is completely acceptable to admit when their
self-relationship is lacking. It important to make
connections with those who are close and can
offer support. Those who ask for help are stronger
than they realize. To ask for help is to recognize the
support of others is needed to better oneself.
It is important to remember problems are always
solvable. It might seem as if the world is falling apart,
but there is always some glue to hold it together- it
just might come in a form that isn’t expected.
College is a time to change, to learn and, most
importantly, to make mistakes. Take college to learn
where limits fall, how to develop a realistic goal and
how to face adversity.
“I am not my mistakes,” Harty says. “Each day
is a new opportunity to be better than the day before.”
The time to discover oneself is right now. While
college might seem like it is solely to prepare students
for their careers, it also prepares them for how to
build their relationships with themselves.
Like a skincare routine, self-care can be
extremely complex, but, with the right products, it is
easy to listen to the needs of the skin and give it what
it needs. It just takes practice and a bit of guidance to
get it right.
“I’m an emotional person, and people liked to
point that out. After a while, I started to question
the ‘why’ of it all. Why was I emotional over small
things? This introspectiveness ignited my desire to
learn about myself, because if I knew the ’why’ then
I could justify my actions, thoughts, emotions and
all the other things.”
- Harty
Design by Sarah Mitchell
Photos by Isabelle Carroza
Modeled by Danielle DeFonce
Alice Spring 2024 76

Tuscaloosa Eats:
Dishes, Dives and Delights
By Lisé Badeaux
In the heart of Tuscaloosa, where the vibrant energy of The University of Alabama melds seamlessly with
its rich culinary scene, lies a tapestry of dining delights just waiting to be discovered. From the bustling
streets to the serene riverbanks, every corner holds a treasure of flavors, each establishment with its own
story to tell.
Taco Mama: A Fiesta of Flavor
Taco Mama stands tall among the culinary
hotspots, with classy colors becoming a beacon
for taco aficionados far and wide. Nestled in the
heart of downtown, this beloved restaurant boasts
a popular menu of Mexican-inspired delights. The
air is alive with the sizzle of frying pans and the
tantalizing aroma of spices as patrons eagerly
line up for their fix. Among the sea of options, the
tacos reign supreme. Two tacos, crispy or soft, are
delivered to the table overflowing with a medley
of mouthwatering toppings. Accompanied by a
generous serving of chips, salsa and a side, it is a
feast fit for royalty.
Will Haver, one of Taco Mama’s founders,
says, “Great people produce quality, delicious food,
and great people deliver excellent service. Our
success is 150% driven by our people. We are going
to continue to invest in great people and quality
ingredients to produce vibrant and delicious food.”
The future of Taco Mama relies on its regulars,
and with its ever-growing popularity, it’s not going
anywhere anytime soon.
Sitar of India: A Taste of the
Subcontinent
Venture a bit further onto 15th Street and
stumble upon Sitar of India, a hidden gem tucked
away next to Cook Out. Despite its unassuming
facade, this cozy spot is a haven for Indian cuisine.
Once inside, the tantalizing scent of exotic spices
wafts through the air. The Chef’s Special Kabob
Platter steals the show: a symphony of flavors
featuring tandoori chicken, chicken tikka, malai tikka,
chicken and lamb seekh kabob and tandoori shrimp.
Served alongside this array of meats is fragrant
basmati rice and an array of delectable chutneys.
Sitar of India is a culinary journey like no
other. Though its exterior might be deceiving, it has
options for the dietary restrictions and needs of its
77 alice.ua.edu
patrons. Stop in, meet the owners behind the magic
and prepare to have an experience exclusive
to Tuscaloosa.
River: Fine Dining by the Water
For those with a craving for the finer
things in life, River offers a dining experience that is
nothing short of sublime. On the banks of the iconic
Tuscaloosa Riverwalk, this upscale eatery exudes
an air of sophistication. The shrimp and grits with
plump sautéed shrimp and creamy gouda grits,
spinach, onions, tomatoes and crispy bacon, create
a dish that practically dances on the palate.
Despite being on the pricier side, locals
like Rebecca Rainer, a UA student’s mom from
Birmingham, says, “Everything on the menu is
so yummy. I enjoy River because it’s right on the
outskirts of the hectic university atmosphere while
still being close to campus. Plus, the elevated
cuisine is a big appeal in a college town.”
,

Nicks in the Sticks: Where
Tradition Meets Value
On the outskirts of town, where the city’s
hustle and bustle fades into the distance, Nicks in
the Sticks, originally known as Nick’s Original Filet
House, beckons locals with its promise of hearty fair
and unbeatable deals. The iconic steakhouse has
been a fixture in Tuscaloosa for decades, drawing in
locals and visitors with its unpretentious charm. The
12-ounce ribeye steals the spotlight with a basket
of warm biscuits and a fluffy baked potato on the
side, ensuring that every craving is satisfied without
breaking the bank.
Nicks in the Sticks is a classic American
dining experience with affordable and delicious
meals. The stakes are low at Nick’s, just like the
prices, but the quality is high.
Glory Bound Gyro Co.: Flavor
without the Frills
A restaurant that truly earns its reputation
as one of the best places to eat on the Strip is Glory
Bound Gyro Co. (GBGC). Tucked away on a corner
of the Strip, GBGC proves both affordable and
convenient food can be done in the same place.
The Comeback Gyro is a crowd favorite. It’s a flavorpacked
concoction of ground beef, onions, bacon,
pepper jack cheese, lettuce and the restaurant’s
signature comeback sauce, all nestled in a warm pita
and served with a side of hand-cut fries.
GBGC allows students to use Dining Dollars,
making it easy to swing in and grab a bite to eat.
Whether it’s a night out or to-go night in, gyros are
the way to go.
Mi Casita: A Sweet Conclusion
Last but certainly not least, no culinary
journey through Tuscaloosa would be complete
without a visit to Mi Casita, a charming authentic
Mexican bakery. From the moment the doors open,
a warm embrace of hospitality is apparent. The Mil
Hojas, a delicate pastry filled with luscious fruit and
topped with a cloud of fresh cream, steals the show
and offers a sweet conclusion to an unforgettable
tour of Tuscaloosa.
While Mi Casita might not be the most
common name across campus, students like
Charlotte Weaver, a senior studying marketing, will
always recommend stopping by.
“Mi Casita became one of my favorite spots
for their great prices,” Weaver says. “I’ve kept going
back time and time again because the quality is
always great and because every time I introduce my
friends, they always want to keep going back.”
Tuscaloosa where every bite tells a story, and
every meal is an adventure. The city’s diverse
array of dining establishments ensures that
there is something to tantalize every palate. Whether
it’s tacos, kabobs or a decadent dessert, one thing
is for certain - in this culinary haven, the possibilities
are as endless as the flavors themselves.
Design by Natalie Adams
Photos by Hannah Grace Mayfield
Alice Spring 2024 78

Beyond
the Bite:
Elevating
Your Girl
Dinner
By Sara Salazar
Breakfast? Lunch? No, it’s “girl dinner,” the
low-effort food trend sweeping the Internet. In
place of a fully balanced meal, girl dinners are
often made from the food at the bottom of the pantry,
creating a low-cost and possibly unbalanced meal.
Eating a girl dinner can be an easy way
to clean out a pantry, but also a slippery slope to
mistakenly fueling the body with the wrong kind of
nutrients. The problem with many girl dinners is they
often are not a good replacement for full meals, as
they lack an assortment of food groups and structure.
However, this doesn’t always have to be the case.
“Girl dinners are fun, and if thoughtfully pulled
together, they can provide a balanced, snack-based
meal,” says Dr. Kristi Crowe-White, an associate
professor in the Department of Human Nutrition at
The University of Alabama.
She suggests that protein is key over carbbased
snacks as it will provide more satiety.
Though girl dinners can be fun, they should
not be an everyday, habitual occurrence. Crowe-White
says, “Girl dinners are not meant to be the daily go-to
dinner, rather they should be the occasional special
treat or relaxed dinner.
She is a believer that it is critical to
acknowledge and act on the fact that food is fuel.
There is clear benefit to eating thought-out,
planned meals, especially in the college day-to-day
setting amidst the chaos of studying and social life.
When sustaining a hectic schedule, it is essential to
make sure a person has the nutrients they need to
keep going.
Eating a healthier diet, remaining active and
getting plenty of sleep are key to bettering one’s
physical and mental health. A balanced
diet full of adequate nourishment
and calories helps to build strong
bones and muscles, increase
energy and maintain a
healthy weight.
Dr. Maria Azrad,
registered dietician and
79 alice.ua.edu

assistant professor at UA says, “Consuming a meal
like this every once in a while is not problematic,
especially if one consumes of healthy diet and gets
regular physical activity the majority of the time.”
Amplifying a girl dinner can be as simple
as adding a spoon of hummus or peanut butter to
add fiber and plant-based protein to a meal.It can
be helpful to plan ahead and have healthier options
in the pantry, such as nuts, avocado, boiled eggs,
strawberries or whole wheat crackers. It is incredibly
worth taking the extra few minutes to make sure
proper nutrients are added to a girl dinner.
Registered dietician Michelle Demeule-
Hayes, from Optimal Nutrition for Every Body, has
over 20 years of extensive experience in nutrition
care. Demeule-Hayes is aware of the jam-packed
schedules of college students and knows cooking a
traditional dinner might be difficult, but “if done right,
they can be healthy and balanced,” she says.
A common phrase used amongst dieticians is
“eat the rainbow,” which means a plate should have
a variety of colors. Eating brightly colored fruits and
vegetables containing important vitamins, minerals
and antioxidants can help the body fight infections,
especially those common amongst college students.
It is also important to include food groups high
in fiber, which is essential for gut health, keeping a
healthy blood sugar and maintaining hunger levels.
Sarah Ann Ratliff, a senior studying food
and nutrition at UA, does not find girl dinner to be a
necessarily bad or good thing.
“Everyone is human, and we all have those
days, but if you are someone that is eating a bag of
chips for a girl dinner every night, there might start to
be an issue from not getting the necessary nutrients
and minerals that the body is craving,” Ratliff says.
Ratliff acknowledges everyone is busy and has
crazy days, but eating healthy has the potential to help
during hectic times.
She says, “a well-balanced diet full of vitamins
and minerals provides the body with the essential
nutrients it needs to maintain energy that lasts
throughout the day, as well as clarity for the brain to
sustain throughout those long study nights. Overall, it
will provide a happier mood.”
Although it can be easier said than done,
especially as a college student always looking for the
more convenient option, there is testament that the
healthy option is worth it. It can benefit many other
areas of one’s life, and makes for a great start to a
healthy and happy lifestyle.
Design by Isabelle Williams
Photos by Madelyn Barr
Modeled by Emilia Obilites

EA
URS
81 alice.ua.edu

CAR MAINTENANCE FOR GIRLS
TIPS AND TRICKS FOR NETWORKING
GROWTH OF AI
CRIMSON CLUES:
A Pop Culture Puzzle
Alice Fall 2023 (page #)

CAR MAINTENANCE FOR GIRLS
By Raven Johnson
Owning a car comes with freedom and
adventure. From traveling to hanging out
with friends, having a vehicle is a milestone
that many look forward to. Having a car is fun
especially for girls who love to express themselves
with different types of décor, from the interior to the
exterior. Although owning a car brings excitement,
it’s important to give it the proper maintenance so it
remains on the road and not in the repair shop.
Keeping up with car maintenance can also
save a lot of money in the long run. Coming up with
extra money if a car messes up puts a hold on plans
and a strain on wallets. Here are some tips and things
to look out for to ensure that the car runs smoothly.
Oil Changes
One of the cardinal rules of maintaining any
vehicle is getting oil changes. Though most
opt to have it changed by an experience
mechanic, for those wanting to save a little
money and get their hands a little dirty,
changing oil is not as hard as it seems.
The first step is to use the
jack tool to lift the car high enough.
This ensures there is enough space
to drain the old oil. Next, find the big
screw, otherwise known as the sump
plug, that drains the oil and untwist
it. Then, get a big container and
drain the oil. When the oil is
finished draining, put the screw
back on and fill the car up
with new oil. This is crucial
for a vehicle as oil
lubricates
83 alice.ua.edu

the engine’s moving parts. It cools engine
components, powers the engine control
and removes sludge. It is important to use
the right kind of oil for each car, as different
cars require specific kinds of oil.
Pep Boys mechanic, Carl Johnson
says, “If the wrong oil is used, it can
cause your engine to become clogged
with sludge and it won’t run properly.”
Changing a car’s oil should be considered
after at least every 5,000 miles. Without
oil changes, the engine will produce
excessive heat, friction, pressure and
debris, which could possibly lead to engine
failure and expensive repairs.
Tire Care
The easiest way to take care of car tires is to
check the tire pressure regularly. When checking tire
pressure, a gauge is needed. It can be purchased
from the auto section of any store. Simply take the
valve cap off the tire, attach the gauge to the valve and
give a slight push. The pressure of the tire will show
up on the gauge. Tire pressure should be between 30
and 35 PSI. Tires are the most important things that
keep the car on the road.
It’s important to get tires rotated around the
same time as an oil change to prevent uneven tire
tread wear. Having proper tread wear on the tire
ensures proper traction on the road, especially in
extreme weather conditions. Getting tires rotated
by the proper technicians is an important part of
maintenance. Without proper tire maintenance, not
only will it be expensive if not maintained properly, but
driving can also be dangerous. It’s good to frequently
check tires for any flats, bulges or sharp objects that
might be found in them, as these can cause flats in
the future.
Fluids
Just like humans need water, cars need fluid.
If the steering wheel is getting harder to turn, the car
might be low on power steering fluid. This applies to
brake fluid, coolant, transmission fluid and windshield
washer fluid.
Warren Tire Pros mechanic, Rachel Jones
says, “For the longevity of your car, one of the easiest
things you can do is regularly check your fluid levels
every 4-6 months.” If the time frame is hard to keep up
with, it is good to check auto fluids every spring.
This is important to note, especially following
a harsh winter, which can cause vehicle fluids to
thicken. Thick fluids can impair a vehicle’s ability to
run smoothly. Checking the different
fluid levels of a car is simple. Locate the
fluid that needs to be checked in the car instruction
manual, which will show where the levels of fluid
should be. After the desired fluid is located, compare
the levels to see if a refill is needed.
Car Hacks
Most girls have a lot of stuff to manage and
carry, and many have things they keep in their cars
for emergencies. An extra change of clothes, shoes,
chargers and feminine products are all things kept
“just in case.” Keeping a car organizer, whether it’s
in the back seat or the trunk, is never a bad idea.
This is perfect for keeping a clean car and having
easy access to necessities on the go. This hack will
keep cars clean, organized and can even add a bit of
personal style.
Owning a car comes with great responsibility
and maintenance, regardless of who is driving, but
often, young women most likely to get scammed or
overcharged when it comes to maintaining their car.
Sometimes a mechanic will say the price of a service
is more than listed, or suddenly the car has a new
problem when it arrives at the mechanic.
To prevent this, Pitts Automotive Mechanic,
Gerald Kilmer says, “Check everything before you go
to ensure that you have no other problems. Another
way is to look up pricing for certain services.”
These reasons are why it’s best for young
women to have knowledge on their cars and how to
take care of it both internally and externally; to keep
tires on the road and girls on the move.
Design by Isabelle Williams
Photos by Isabelle Carrozza
Alice Spring 2024 84

Tips and Tricks
for Networking
By Chloe Mackey
From internships to networking, in today’s world
there are many different ways to stand out when it
comes to the job market.
To put it plainly, networking is the process of
building relationships with people. These connections
can help by giving advice, contacts and even job and
internship opportunities.
There is never a better time to start networking
than now. Networking is important because, though
not all connections will be used right away, they can be
useful in the future.
“Building relationships with people who work
in the industry teaches you how to best work in the
industry,” says Ashlynne Haycock-Lohmann, a deputy
director for policy and legislation for the Tragedy
Assistance Program for survivors.
Networking can take place anywhere. An easy
way to start is by talking with professors and guest
speakers in class.
“Getting to know my professors on a deeper level
besides my name and where I’m from has given me the
opportunity to create positive connections with some of
the industry’s best,” says Margaret Leach, a sophomore
news media student at The University of Alabama.
Leach says “If you want to engage in more
one on one discussions, go to office hours, even if it’s
not a professor you’re currently taking. Getting more
acquainted with the college never hurts.”
Through the UA Career Center website there is a
wealth of information on networking. Their website has
tips about on-campus resources as well as resources for
how to network online.
Career fairs are also an amazing way to network.
Each semester, there is a career fair on campus where
many different companies come to talk about what
they do. Students are encouraged to go to build their
networks and find new job opportunities.
“Take every opportunity as a networking
opportunity even if you are meeting someone at a bar,”
says Haycock-Lohmann.
Preparing before attending networking events is
important. When going to an event like the career fair,
attendees should look into what businesses will be there
and make a list of which ones seem interesting.
When the list has narrowed down a bit, it is a
good idea do some research on them, and decide
which ones to reach out to or apply for.
Researching is not the only way to
prepare. Perhaps an item that is even more
important when networking is the resume. A
resume is an ever-changing document meant to
display career and involvement highlights and
why one would be a good fit for a certain job.
The Career Center offers an online tool
called VMock that gives advice on how best to
format a resume. VMock will give corrections on
common resume errors like overused words and
inconsistencies.
While displaying the best qualities on a
resume is important, it is also important for a
resume to be truthful.
“Everyone is special in their own ways.
You have to show that, not what you think
someone wants,” says Leach.
Making business cards can also help.
These are easy to carry around and are easier to
pass out than a resume when meeting someone
informally.
While handing out business cards
is important, getting a potential employer’s
card then following up with an email is even
more important. After meeting someone and
exchanging information, it is often a good idea to
send a quick email to the professional reminding
them about what was discussed and thanking
them.
The different colleges at UA also offer
different opportunities for networking such as
The Culverhouse College of Business and the
College of Communication and Information
Sciences (C&IS).
Within C&IS, there is an organization
dedicated to networking across the country
called Industry Immersion. They take students
to different networking events in different cities
across the nation in the various fields
85 alice.ua.edu

within college.
Stephanie Smith, a senior public relations
major at UA is the secretary for Industry Immersion.
“Being a part of Industry Immersion has
helped me become involved throughout C&IS, and
helped me connect with students, alumni and staff,”
says Smith. “Do not be scared to reach out to alumni;
they have been in your shoes before and want to help
you!”
Nowadays, there are several different websites
to create accounts on to make networking easier.
LinkedIn, a platform used for involvement,
education and job searches, turns networking into
social media. Users can post about their different
accomplishments or professional development
opportunities as they happen. This social media for
networking allows recruiters and interested parties to
see a possible applicants past history.
“Honestly, LinkedIn is the best way for any
professional to see your work,” says Leach.
Handshake is another cite similar to LinkedIn,
where the main purpose is finding jobs and
internships.
Something that makes Handshake unique
is that it combines networking with one’s college.
Posted jobs are directly targeted to students from the
university they attend.
As there are many “do’s” that come with
networking, there are also some “do not’s”.
The biggest “don’t” is to not follow up with
someone after networking. There are different ways
that people can follow up, such as emailing or adding
them on LinkedIn.
When it comes to networking relationships
something that is never a good idea is “burning
bridges.” This is the act of completely severing a
relationship with someone for good.
“As many alumni have told me, never burn
a bridge because everyone knows everyone,” says
Smith.
Networking is an extremely valuable skill
to build, and it can help a person get far in life. It is
always important to build connections with those
around, whether it is family friends, classmates,
professors or professionals at events. When meeting
the right person, the next opportunity may be right
around the corner.
Design By Sarah Smith
Photos By Alisha Power
Modeled By Kyla Knickrehm
Alice Spring 2024 86

The All-Too-Real Effects Of
Artificial Intelligence
By Abby Cope
As a kid, technology
seemed like such a big,
scary and unsure concept,
that it felt better to not bother with
it at all. Computers were cold and
much less colorful than Barbie
dolls and Calico Critters. Through
uninformed eyes, it always
sounded like something better
left up to those who understood
it. If the movie “Wall-E” taught
society anything, it was that the
overgrowth of lifeless technology
creates nothing but problems.
In recent years, artificial
intelligence has become a more
and more prominent force in
the world. In November of 2022,
OpenAI released an artificial
intelligence chatbot called
Chat GPT and changed the AI
industry forever. Since then, this
futuristic program has turned into
a rapidly evolving reality that has
overtaken not only computers,
but classrooms, jobs and culture
as well. Technology has become
a concept that cannot be left
up to the adults anymore. It
is something everyone must
comprehend, as it is something
87 alice.ua.edu
that may be able to comprehend
human life faster than humans
can.
Since the release of
this major AI platform, artificial
intelligence has become an
influential force in schools and
universities. Both students
and professors deal with this
digitization daily, and there have
been some strong and heavily
opposing attitudes towards the
automation of a once analog
practice.
At The University of
Alabama, students and teachers
are heavily divided on how to
feel about artificial intelligence
integration into classrooms.
Many students on campus
dislike the stigmatization around
AI and have found it is most useful
not as a tool for cheating, but
rather a steppingstone towards
producing more well-rounded
work.
“My professor tells us
to use AI when looking at court
cases and ask it questions of
objectivity. Then, we take the
answers it gives us and either
use parts of it in our argument or
discard it by saying that the AI is
incorrect and why,” says Reagan
Thompson, a senior history major
at UA on the pre-law track.
Fellow senior and business
student Katelyn Roper agrees.
“All of my professors think
AI is an extremely helpful learning
tool, as long as we quote and cite
it correctly,” Roper says.
However, what happens
when credit is not given where
credit is due?
A good faith effort is
implied when using resources or
information that is AI generated,
but some students have begun to
pass off AI work as their own.
“It really depends on the
class as to if it’s helpful or hurtful,”
Roper says. “For my marketing
research classes, it’s extremely
helpful because we’re not digging
through hours and hours of
research. It’s able to give us the
data we need immediately so we
can keep working. But writing
classes that are more independent
thinking? That’s where it can get
you in trouble.”

Senior aerospace
engineering major Emma Newell
says, “AI can be extremely useful in
everyday life, but in the classroom,
people have started to take
advantage of it and used it as a
cheating tool.”
“Bing now even has an
automatic AI chat-bot pop up as
soon as you open the browser.
Now you don’t even need websites
like “Chegg” or “CourseHero”, you
can just bypass them entirely,”
Newell continues. “In the business
world, a lot of companies use it.
My dad works for T-Mobile, and
they’ve started using it for things
like tracking data, so as to not
waste manpower. But in the school
world, it has become an avenue
for cheating and finding the quick
answer that isn’t always correct.”
Artificial intelligence has
not only taken over schools, but
the job market as well. AI has
automated many routine tasks in
various jobs, creating mass layoffs
across multiple fields, and an
increase in unemployment rates
due to lack of need for human
employees. Jobs in areas such as
manufacturing, administration,
and customer support are being
replaced by automated entities and
leaving real people facing issues
with employment.
In the year 2023, Artificial
Intelligence replaced over onethird
of jobs formerly held by
people. In a country with an
already staggering unemployment
rate, many wonder what the future
of the job market will look like.
However, with as many
jobs as AI has eliminated, it has
also created some. Experts say AI
will create over 96 million new job
opportunities worldwide by 2025,
only having taken over around
85 million. This displacement
provides waves of relief to millions
of individuals impacted by this
professional computerization.
As AI is still being developed, it
is hard to say if it will grow into a
well-rounded, positive concept or
into something that individuals are
better without.
Artificial intelligence has
created a sense of on-screen
comfort that strays further
and further away from close,
personal connections. In an era
where people are already doing
everything in their power to
optimize efficiency in all aspects
of life, it was only a matter of time
before something was created to
make life even more conventional.
It can be easy to compare
oneself to others. However, it
is important to remember that
they, too, are as imperfect as
humans. But how are people to talk
themselves out of comparison to
something that is really and truly
perfect?
Adaptation to this
requires a proactive approach to
educating society, rather than a
consummation with individuals
shortcomings. So, what’s the
best way to stand out from the
standardized and differentiate
from artificial intelligence? By
embracing humanity.
Embrace the mistakes
people make, the risks they
take and everything else that
computers simply cannot process.
AI generates a gap between
productivity and personability.
Tasks that were once customerserviced
with a smile are now
cold, hard and emotionlessly
done at a much faster rate for
far, far cheaper. This means this
generation must try even harder
to rebuild the bridge that has

een burned by computer chips and compulsory
responses.
Standing out from AI in the job market is a
question on a lot of college students’ minds right
now, along with many other questions even Chat GPT
doesn’t have the answers to. All the uncertainty can
begin to feel overwhelming.
Friendly face Macy Collins, a sophomore
Academic Peer Coach from the Capstone Center for
Student Success, says students aren’t alone in this
predicament.
“If you’re relying on AI to give you all the
answers to life’s hard-hitting questions, that’s where
you can start to get out of touch with your own
humanity,” Collins says. “What separates us from
other people is how we think, our minds. It might
be effective to use AI to write an essay or finish
an assignment, but in the long run? In terms of
immersing ourselves in the real word and functioning
in society? I think this might set us back.
She continues, “I think it’s kind of scary,
personally. It’s great to make lives easier in some
aspects, but reading an article and not knowing
whether you’re reading something that was written by
a real human or not is a strange feeling. It’s become
so intermixed, works by artificial intelligence and real
people, the lines have become blurred. How do we
determine what’s real and what’s not? It’s a tough
question, and it gives you an eerie feeling of what
could come.”
Though it has proved itself a force to be
reckoned with, the perfection that is artificial
intelligence will never compare to the reality that is
humanity. With as many negatives as the technology
turnovers have produced, there are also positives.
More jobs created, more moments able to be shared
over long-distance and more connections, even if
they do require a little disconnect.
Dr. Brian Butler, Dean of The University of
Alabama’s College of Communication and and
Information Sciences, explains how AI has started to
become a little less artificial.
“Think of it like this: If you tried to hammer
in a nail and the hammer broke, you would call the
hammer broken, you wouldn’t use it anymore. If AI
messes up, it has what we call a ‘hallucination.’ We
give it fancy names, we give it the benefit of the
doubt, we’re personifying it. Which is important to do
with other people, but not with tools. You wouldn’t use
a broken hammer, so why would you use broken AI?”
Butler says.
As AI technology continues to
advance, so does the need for people who can keep it
running the way it’s supposed to.
“When people are afraid of technology, they’re
afraid of two things: afraid of it taking over and afraid
of it breaking. Have you ever had your computer
need an upgrade? It stops working and begins to run
slower. So, we immediately upgrade it to the newest
software. We’re dependent on technology and afraid
of it at the same time,” Butler says. “So, if you’re
apprehensive of the technology, ask yourself: is it
the technology, or who’s using it? AI by itself just sits
there. At the end of the day, somebody must evaluate
the data, to “feed the robot dog”. The harder question
is: how are we going to use these things and are we
okay with those uses?”
It’s hard to say whether AI is inherently a
good or bad thing, it is certain that AI is something
prevalent, and becoming more and more permanent
each day. The saying, “If you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em”
comes to mind, but it is up to each individual’s own
discretion as to whether or not they join ‘Team Tech,’
and the millions of people using AI across the globe.
Design By Sarah Smith
89 alice.ua.edu

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91 alice.ua.eu

C R I M S O N
C L U E S
A Pop Culture Puzzle
By Shannon Salerni
A test of all things pop culture, UA and classic crossword clues in puzzle form.
Across
Down
1 Hair accessories making a comeback 1 Premiered alongside Oppenheimer
4 Ice skater biopic starring Margot Robbie 2 Unwell or ill
6 Drake’s homeland 3 Trendy adidas shoe
9 What this crossword is published in 5 Hair salon; rhymes with 36-Across
10 Speak Now track 7 Suffix with lemon or lime
12 Expression of surprise: abbr. 8 Irish romance novel, full of miscommunication
14 Saban’s successor 11 Roll ____
15 They don’t want no scrubs 13 Women’s History Month
17 Teenage girl, en español 14 Language learning app
20 Big name in nail polish 15 Ancient Egyptian grave
21 “Let them eat cake!” 16 Urban area
24 ___ Gala 18 To remove the president
25 Second-tallest bird 19 “Ultraviolence” singer
26 Prefix with “genius,” in a musical context 22 Referring to one’s maiden name
27 Beauty brand famous for cherry blossom
powder
23 All-girls residence hall at UA, for short
29 Best 28 What the rest is, according to Natasha
Bedingfield
30 Royal series on Netflix 31 Cause (with havoc)
31 Josh Hutcherson meme 32 Where to buy Rare Beauty
33 “Bella, where the hell have you been ____?”
34 Home for UA students
35 Miss Scarlet, in the billiard room, with the
candlestick
36 Scuba site
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