Horizons

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FALL
2024

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HORIZONS
Table of Contents
News - Page 3
CW / Caroline Simmons
Culture - Page 21
CW / Hannah Grace Mayfield
Sports - Page 13
CW / Elijah McWhorter
EDITORIAL STAFF
Editor-in-Chief
Maven Navarro
editor@thecrimsonwhite.com
Opinion - Page 31
CW / Caroline Simmons
Cover CW/ Riley Thompson
Design by Hannah Grace Mayfield
1
Managing Editor
Engagement Editor
Public Relations Editor
Chief Copy Editor
Assistant Copy Editor
Opinions Editor
News Editor
Culture Editor
Assistant Culture Editor
Sports Editor
Assistant Sports Editor
Photo Editor
Assistant Photo Editor
Chief Page Editor
Chief Graphics Editor
Multimedia Editor
Assistant Multimedia Editor
Jacob Ritondo
managingeditor@thecrimsonwhite.com
Rob Saville
engagement@thecrimsonwhite.com
Emma Brandenburg
Luke McClinton
Lauren Chumbley
Rachel Talley
Abby Cope
letters@thecrimsonwhite.com
Elijah Doomes
newsdesk@thecrimsonwhite.com
Ava Morthland
culture@thecrimsonwhite.com
Brandon Smith
Courtney Larrimore
sports@thecrimsonwhite.com
Samuel Prestipino
Riley Thompson
Riley Brown
Anna Punswick
Shelby West
Eddie Hernandez
Gracie Price
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The Crimson White, Copyright © 2024

Letter from the Editor
HORIZONS
The importance of a word: Yes
Maven Navarro
Editor-in-Chief
In high school, I was one of those students
who never wanted to hang out with
friends or do anything outside of school
in fear that my grades or involvement in
extracurriculars would suffer. However,
coming to college, I quickly learned I had
to switch and become a “yes” woman.
I remember the day my parents dropped
me off and I was completely and utterly
terrified. I knew not a soul at The University
and worried about whether I would
have any friends. My roommate had not
moved in yet, and I felt lonelier than ever.
After moving into Tutwiler Hall, it
seemed to me like everyone was already
best friends with their roommate and had
an entire gaggle of girls with them at all
times. I felt like the only one who didn’t
have that.
One night, my neighbors came over to
introduce themselves and asked if I wanted
to go get ice cream. After a long day of
participating in sorority recruitment, all I
wanted to do was lie in bed and call home.
However, I recognized I didn’t have any
friends and decided this would be the time
to make them.
This one event led me to understand the
importance of saying yes.
Shortly after this lesson, I became friends
with a girl who asked, “Hey Maven, what
if we got matching dinosaur tattoos?” Because
of my newfound philosophy on life,
I said, “Sounds like fun!”
Thanks to that decision, I now have a
funny story to tell of the time my best
friend and I got a matching tattoo after
knowing each other only a couple of days.
We only get four years at the Capstone.
While now that may seem like forever, it
will go by faster than you can imagine.
This is the place where you will meet your
best friends, be offered endless opportunities
and gain invaluable knowledge.
CW / Riley Thompson
Say yes to every opportunity imaginable.
In the future, you will be eternally grateful
that you made the memories that will last
a lifetime. Go get that matching dinosaur
tattoo with your new bestie!
2

HORIZONS
News
Scouting Out Scholarships
Elijah Doomes
News Editor
Scholarships and financial aid are becoming more important
for students as over the past 20 years in the U.S., the
average cost of college when considering tuition, fees, and
room and board has more than doubled across all postsecondary
institutions.
One of the best ways to lower the costs of college is
through scholarships and grants. The University of Alabama,
the federal government and myriad private entities
have robust scholarship programs that all students can take
advantage of to save the most money possible.
UA scholarships
Once students have completed a semester at the University,
they gain access to the current student scholarship
application. Students can access the application through
the myBama website and must complete it by March 1 to be
considered for aid. Most scholarships require applicants to
be full-time students, which requires taking at least 12 credit
hours per semester.
Students can apply for departmental scholarships associated
with their major’s college, Honors College scholarships
and study abroad scholarships.
Additionally, the Black Alumni Association and LGBTQ
Alumni Association offer several scholarships for currently
enrolled students.
Students can meet with the Office of Financial Aid to learn
more about their eligibility for various scholarships and the
application process.
Private scholarships
The Office of External Scholarships and Fellowships works
to help students find the best opportunities for certain
noninstitutional scholarships and make them competitive
applicants for awards.
Many of the most prestigious scholarships like the Fulbright,
Gilman and Goldwater scholarships require an institutional
endorsement from the University. The OESF helps
students gain the endorsements they need while walking
them through the application process.
For general questions about the OESF, students can email
OESF director Lucy Kaufman at externalscholarships@
ua.edu. Students can also make appointments with the office
to discuss the application process for specific scholarships
they’re interested in.
Federal scholarships
The first step to receiving a federal scholarship is completing
the Free Application for Federal Student Aid.
Colleges and the federal government use the FAFSA to analyze
student income levels and decide how much aid they
can obtain. Through the FAFSA, students can gain access to
Pell Grants, which usually don’t have to be repaid, as well as
federal student loans.
Students should update their FAFSA form each academic
year to ensure they receive the largest amount of aid
possible. Students can check the status of their FAFSA on
myBama.
CW / Susan Xiao
3

4

HORIZONS
News
How to fight food insecurity in West Alabama
Graham Baakko
Contributing Writer
The West Alabama Food Bank is in need of volunteers as it
continues to fight food insecurity in nine Alabama counties,
including Tuscaloosa.
According to Feeding America, 16% of children in Tuscaloosa
County were food insecure in 2021.
One group that helps the food bank accomplish its mission
is Beat Auburn Beat Hunger, an organization it created
with the UA Center for Service and Leadership.
BABH President Kennedi Preston, a junior majoring in
public health and history, said that there is a large need for
volunteers in West Alabama.
“It’s very crucial,” Preston said. “I was just speaking with
the director of the food bank. She was discussing just how
much the food bank needs assistance from donations and
manpower coming in, especially with inflation right now.”
Caleb Buell, a junior chemistry major and volunteer at the
West Alabama Food Bank through the Center for Service
and Leadership, said that one way students can help fight
hunger is to sign up to volunteer on the food bank’s website.
Buell added that students can find the food bank through
BamaPulse, a UA platform that allows students to easily find
and register for local volunteer opportunities. BamaPulse
also allows students to track their service hours.
As a volunteer, Buell helps with initiatives for particularly
vulnerable members of the community, like children and
older adults.
Students can also donate to BABH online through Bama-
Pulse and by placing food items in its red donation barrels
around UA’s campus and Tuscaloosa.
According to BABH’s website, the most needed items are
canned goods, granola bars, peanut butter, pasta and sauce
with meat.
Preston said interested students can volunteer Monday-Thursday
for morning or afternoon shifts. Students
can schedule a time to volunteer via email at volunteer@
westalabamafoodbank.org or by calling the food bank at
(205) 333-5353.
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News
HORIZONS
Jumping into research
Kinion Fowler
Contributing Writer
At The University of Alabama, there are numerous
opportunities for students to get involved
in research as an undergraduate, even
as early as their first semester on campus.
Undergraduate research involves an indepth
exploration of a topic by collaborating
with a professor, although in many cases
undergraduates work on teams with other
undergraduate students, graduate students
and professors.
At the University, there are research projects
on numerous topics in diverse fields of
study, including non-STEM research. However,
the appeal of undergraduate research may
not be obvious at first.
“Students who engage in undergraduate
research get several benefits,” said Leanne
Carroll, the director of the Office of Undergraduate
Research.
According to the office’s website, research
helps students develop personal skills, professional
skills and explore their curiosity.
Finding out how to get involved in research
can be the most challenging part for undergraduate
students.
The Office of Undergraduate Research
offers help in every stage of the process,
including connecting students with projects.
This includes programs like the Emerging
Scholars Program, which can provide an
introduction to research, and Research Ambassadors,
which provides students who can
share advice about undergraduate research.
“We will help you to navigate the fears or
concerns that you might have,” Carroll said.
Contacting professors directly can also lead
to research opportunities.
“Just reach out to people, and things will
work out,” said Truman Porter, a freshman
studying computer science. Porter presented
his research at the Undergraduate Research
and Creative Activity Conference this spring.
Students commonly do research outside of
their major as well. For some, doing research
outside of their major can even help in the
decision to switch or modify their area of
original study.
“Once I joined research on campus, I realized
that I wanted that to be an integral part of my
career, and so now I’m striving for an M.D.-
Ph.D. to combine the two things I’m passionate
for,” said Chandni Bhat, a research
ambassador and a junior studying chemistry
and mathematics.
One major consideration for freshmen
who are interested in research is the time
commitment. Managing a healthy college
schedule can be difficult, and research can be
demanding. Bhat said that students should
balance their time to give equal importance
to everything they do, including research.
For students who know that they want to participate
in undergraduate research, Jeff Gray,
director of the Randall Research Scholars
Program, recommended that they take their
time when choosing which project to join.
“It’s almost like a dating relationship,” Gray
said. “If you’re looking for a project or an adviser,
just don’t take the first thing that comes
around. Be patient and look around and see
what your options are and pick the best one
that makes you excited.”
Gray added that students should enjoy what
they work on. “Undergrad research should be
pure fun,” Gray said. “It should be a project
you love if you’re doing an undergrad
To read the complete version, please visit
thecrimsonwhite.com.
Ajay Agrawal, a professor of mechanical engineering, presents a rotating detonation combustion engine prototype in his lab. (CW File)
6

7

News
HORIZONS
Leah Bethea
Contributing Writer
How to make friends in college
New students at The University of Alabama
may feel a bit overwhelmed by the sheer size
of the campus and the massive number of
students. Whether students are starting out
on their own or already here with friends, it
helps to expand one’s social circle and meet
new people who share one’s interests. Here
are some tips to help students get started.
Join a club
The University has a fantastic range of clubs
and organizations to choose from, catering
to all sorts of interests. From the Bass Fishing
Club to the Ballroom Dancing Club to the
Dog Walking Club and much more, there are
around 600 clubs and organizations students
can join.
Students can find all the University’s
student organizations, campus events and
important news on mySource.ua.edu.
Additionally, students should keep up with
First Year Experience across social platforms.
FYE helps first-year students make the
transition to college life and plans free
welcoming activities to help students make
new connections.
Attend events
At the start of each semester, the University
holds Get on Board Day. Many of the clubs
and organizations on campus participate
in this career-fair-type event, where
students can learn more about the different
communities they can join.
There are also plenty of events hosted by
University Programs, such as movie nights,
arts and crafts, and bingo. Students can follow
UP on Instagram to stay up to date on all of
its events.
UP hosts Weeks of Welcome at the
beginning of the fall semester, this year
running Aug. 20 to Sept. 2. WOW consists of
several free events to help first-year students
build community and integrate into campus.
These events attract a diverse range of
people and provide an excellent opportunity
for students to step out of their comfort zone
and connect with new people.
Connect with classmates
Whether students are in a small class with
just a few students or a large lecture with
hundreds of people, chances are there are
others who share their interests. Instead of
sitting alone, try to find a group of people or
someone to sit next to.
Little conversations with others can lead
to meaningful connections that can last
throughout college.
Another great way to make friends is by
forming a study group. These low-stakes
hangouts can be the best way to get to know
people better in a comfortable environment.
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HORIZONS
Finding your place as a first-generation student
Rachel Seale
Contributing Writer
Finding community on a college campus can be hard, but certain UA
programs exist to provide first-generation students a place to adjust to
college life.
Legacy Scholars
Legacy Scholars is the largest first-generation program for UA students
of all majors to connect and learn how to network during their time at
the Capstone.
The program offers professor mentorships, monthly events to connect
with faculty and other students, academic workshops and several
scholarship opportunities.
Randi Hamm, a former first-gen student at the University who is
now the first-generation program manager, said Legacy Scholars is a
community-based social program that students can join at any point in
the academic year, including as incoming students at Bama Bound.
She said there are no GPA or attendance requirements to join.
“It’s just meeting students where they need to be met so that they can
engage at whatever level feels right for them,” Hamm said.
One opportunity that Legacy Scholars offers is mentorship from a
faculty or staff member.
Hamm said first-gen students in any grade level, including transfer
students, can sign up to be mentored.
News
To be connected with a mentor, Hamm said students can reach out to
her by email at randi.hamm@ua.edu to be put on a waiting list.
Culverhouse’s first-generation program
Hamm said there is also a first-generation student program within the
Culverhouse College of Business led by experiential learning director
Quoc Hoang.
Hoang said the program aims to provide community; culture;
visibility; and outcomes, including networking, obtaining jobs and
providing good college experiences for students. He said many students
don’t know what a first-generation student is or if they are one.
Additionally, Hoang said many first-gen students don’t feel as though
they belong on campus. Once students find community within first-gen
programs, Hoang said they are introduced to the culture of belonging
and growing in college as a first-gen student.
“Not only do you belong, you deserve to thrive,” Hoang said. “Creating
visibility for just being there but also doing great things helps fuel the
community.”
Hoang said all Culverhouse students are required to take the GBA
146 course, which includes a lesson on what it means to be a first-gen
student and how to get support from the business school.
He encourages first-gen students in business to come check out the
events and see if they want to join the program.
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News
He said many students learn about events from professors, other
students and Culverhouse’s Instagram.
Hoang said the program provides a few scholarships for first-gen
business majors; networking events; industry immersion events; and fun
get-togethers, including playing mini golf and going bowling.
Additionally, there is a first-gen designated study space and lounge
in Hewson Hall that requires ACT Card access, Hoang said. First-gen
students can scan the QR code next to the room or let Culverhouse
know they are a first-gen student to gain access to the space.
Capstone Center for Student Success
Even though the Capstone Center for Student Success is not
specifically geared toward first-generation students, Kaley Clemmons, a
sophomore majoring in advertising and a member of Legacy Scholars,
said she has used the center as an additional academic resource.
Clemmons said the Capstone Center for Student Success helped her
develop good study habits and provided her with tutoring and academic
coaching. She said she believes the center is more beneficial to first-gen
students since they are new to how college is designed.
Clemmons encourages students to not worry about whether their
parents or family members went to college. She said just because your
family hasn’t gone to a four-year university doesn’t mean that you can’t.
“You have so many opportunities at UA,” Clemmons said. “And there’s
so many possibilities of what you can do.”
For more information about resources available for first-gen students,
visit success.ua.edu/first-generation-programs.
HORIZONS
Students participate at Get on Board Day. (CW / Caroline Simmons)
10

News
Tuscaloosa coffee shops
Emma Brandenburg
Public Relations Editor
With the long days and late nights that inevitably come as part of
college, coffee becomes the lifeblood of almost every student at some
point. These shops offering locally brewed coffee in Tuscaloosa will
help students find their fix.
Monarch Espresso Bar
Founded by two University of Alabama graduates, Monarch
Espresso Bar is renowned for its dedication to high-quality craft
coffee. A notable aspect of Monarch is its Coffee Club, a monthly
membership program offering complimentary drip coffee on
Mondays and a specialty drink on Tuesdays. Regular patrons often
praise Monarch’s hot latte, claiming the baristas have crafted some of
the finest latte art in Tuscaloosa.
Strange Brew Coffeehouse
Originally from Starkville, Mississippi, Strange Brew Coffeehouse
opened its Tuscaloosa location in January 2023. It has quickly
become a popular study spot among students because of its
proximity to campus and eclectic atmosphere. Among Tuscaloosa
residents, a coveted beverage of choice is The Marilyn, also known
as the Salted Blondie. With caramel, white chocolate and a hint of
sea salt, both casual sippers and coffee snobs alike are sure to enjoy
this drink.
Heritage House Coffee and Tea
With three locations around Tuscaloosa, Heritage House is one
of the longest-running coffee establishments in the city. It first
opened its doors in 1993, offering a wide range of coffee roasts from
around the world, along with an extensive menu of breakfast and
lunch items. Among the most raved about items are the scones,
which arebaked in-house daily, and the Heritage House Special, a
coffee-based beverage featuring caramel, white chocolate and dark
chocolate.
Open late at night, Strange Brew is the newest coffee shop on the Strip. CW / Lennox Krauter
11

12

HORIZONS
Sports
2024-2025 Football Schedule:
DeBoer’s Debut
Western Kentucky
Bryant-Denny Stadium
Aug. 31
Tennessee
Knoxville, Tennessee
Oct. 19
South Florida
Bryant Denny Stadium
Sept. 7
Missouri
Bryant-Denny Stadium
Oct. 26
Wisconsin
Madison, Wisconsin
Sept. 14
CW / Riley Brown
CW / Jennifer Stroud
LSU
Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Nov. 9
Georgia
Bryant-Denny Stadium
Sept. 28
Mercer
Bryant-Denny Stadium
Nov. 16
Vanderbilt
Nashville, Tennessee
Oct. 5
South Carolina
Bryant-Denny Stadium
Oct. 12
CW / Hannah G. Mayfield
CW / Hannah G. Mayfield
Oklahoma
Norman, Oklahoma
Nov. 23
Auburn
Bryant-Denny Stadium
Nov. 30
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Sports
HORIZONS
Must-see games for Alabama students this season
Courtney Larrimore
Sports Editor
Georgia at Bryant-Denny Stadium
After winning the SEC championship over
the Georgia Bulldogs, Alabama made its sixth
Rose Bowl appearance. This rivalry will only
grow, as the Bulldogs are hungry to dethrone
the reigning SEC champs.
The SEC championship win was under the
watchful eye of the now retired Nick Saban,
who had the Bulldogs on a tight leash. He
boasted an 8-2 record against Georgia while
at Alabama, including stealing a national
championship in 2018.
Students will have to wait for September to
see if new head coach Kalen DeBoer can keep
the Bulldogs at bay.
Oklahoma at Gaylord Family
Oklahoma Memorial Stadium
The Oklahoma Sooners will enter the SEC
on July 1 with something to prove. After
finishing No. 15 last season, the Sooners
may not seem to threaten the Crimson Tide,
but looking at Alabama’s only 2023 regular
season loss might change one’s perspective.
While Alabama lost by two scores to the
Texas Longhorns in Bryant-Denny Stadium,
the Longhorns were downed by Oklahoma,
their biggest rival, on their home turf by four
points in October.
Although the Sooners haven’t
found postseason success since their stint in
the College Football Playoff in 2019, joining
the SEC may be what the seven-time national
champions need to get back to what was once
a dynasty.
Auburn at Bryant-Denny Stadium
This game isn’t just any game. It’s the
Iron Bowl.
Sharing the state of Alabama as their home
turf, the national championship-winning
teams have created a heated rivalry. The instate
clash is so intense that the NFL ranked it
the second-best rivalry in college football.
Alabama will host the Tigers in Bryant-
Denny Stadium next season. Despite Auburn
not being ranked within the Top 25 since
2021, the rivalry always seems to result in
incredibly close games. This year is sure to be
no different in terms of competitiveness.
Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe slips past a Georgia
player at the 2023 SEC Championship.
(CW / Riley Thompson)
Last season, with only 32 seconds
remaining in the Iron Bowl, Auburn’s senior
class thought they’d seen the Tigers trample
the Crimson Tide for the first time since
their arrival. That was until quarterback Jalen
Milroe threw the 31-yard game-winning
touchdown to wide receiver Isaiah Bond.
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HORIZONS
Sports
Tips and tricks for attending Alabama sports
Callie Cassady
Contributing Writer
Plan ahead
Securing tickets for football games can be competitive, especially
for incoming freshmen and transfers. To avoid disappointment for
high-profile games, students should plan well in advance and purchase
tickets early. Freshman kinesiology exercise science major Lexi
Bush said arriving early is pivotal for the best game day experience.
“Seating is awful in the upper deck for football games because there
are so many freshmen,” Bush said. “So, if you want to have a good
seat, you need to get there at least an hour before the game starts.
Bigger games, sometimes even close to two hours.” Students should
keep an eye on the official Alabama Athletics website, Rolltide.com,
for ticket release dates and promotions.
Stay updated
Make sure to follow the official Alabama Athletics social media
accounts to stay up to date on game times, parking information and
any last-minute changes or announcements.
Students should also make sure to download the Tide Loyalty
Points app on their phones to ensure they get points for going to any
sporting events because when national championships, bowl games,
or even just season ticket sales roll around students with the most
points get first consideration.
Familiarize yourself with stadium policies
Before heading to any games, students should take time to review
Alabama’s stadium policies regarding prohibited items, bag restrictions
and other relevant information. The University encourages all fans not
to bring unauthorized bags to any athletic event and to keep in mind the
clear-bag policy when headed to an event. Remembering these rules will
ensure getting into the stadium is a hassle-free experience.
Stay hydrated and sun-protected
Alabama’s warm climate means that attending outdoor sporting events
can be blistering, especially during the summer months. Remembering
to take precautions like drinking plenty of water and wearing sunscreen
will keep students protected from the harmful sun and heat.
Junior public relations major Emilee Boster explained how she managed
the heat during day football games.
“One of the best things my friends and I did freshmen year was buy
small portable fans to take to the football games,” Boster said. “It gets so
hot during those first few day games, and those fans, which doubled as
portable chargers, were lifesavers.”
15

Sports
HORIZONS
Know the traditions
Alabama is known for its rich traditions that go back decades.
From the iconic “Roll Tide Roll” chant to the playing of “Sweet Home
Alabama” after touchdowns to the sound of “Dixieland Delight” after
the third-quarter break of football games, students should familiarize
themselves with these customs to fully immerse themselves in the
game day experience.
Embrace the Alabama legacy
Attending an Alabama sports event is more than
just watching a game; it is about being part of a community of fans
united by their love for their school and team. Embrace the spirit of
the University of Alabama.
Students cheer in the student section at a home football game. (CW / Riley Thompson)
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HORIZONS
Sports
Who are the new freshmen stars on campus?
Samuel Prestipino
Assistant Sports Editor
The University of Alabama is one of the largest hot spots for college
athletics in the country. Countless UA programs compete at the
highest level by developing incredibly skilled athletes to start playing
at the Alabama standard right away.
Here is a look at the next generation of Crimson Tide
superstars.
One of the biggest stars arriving on campus in the fall is Alabama
football wide receiver Ryan “Hollywood” Williams. The five-star
recruit from Saraland High School in Saraland, Alabama, recommitted
to coach Kalen DeBoer and the Crimson Tide Jan. 20 and
has garnered significant attention for his elite skill set. According to
247 Sports, Williams finished the 2023 season with 72 receptions for
1324 yards and 26 total touchdowns.
“He’s one of the most dynamic guys I’ve seen at receiver,” DeBoer
said. “Getting the ball in his hands, he can do it on short throws and
quicker-type routes, and he can do it down the field. He’s good in
every way.”
On the hardwood, the Alabama men’s basketball team has brought
in five-star recruit Derrion Reid. The small forward from Prolific
Prep in California is known for his aggressive offensive play style and
lockdown defensive mindset that gives other schools a reason to look
out for this reigning Final Four squad.
“We are thrilled to welcome Derrion and his family to The University
of Alabama,” said coach Nate Oats. “Derrion is a top-10 player
in the country because of his versatility on offense and can guard
multiple positions on defense.”
The women’s basketball team also brought in a star for the upcoming
year.
Eris Lester will join the squad in the fall and adds some help to the
backcourt. The four-star from Montverde Academy in Florida has
been described as one of the most athletic players in the class. Her
ability to score at a high volume and lock down scorers makes Lester
a potential headache to any opposing coaching staff.
“We are extremely excited to welcome Eris to Tuscaloosa!” headcoach
Kristy Curry said. “Eris is the most athletic player and potentially
has the most upside of any player nationally in the Class of
2024. She will bring versatility, athleticism, scoring ability, defensive
prowess, and a will to win to our program.”
Playing one sport at Alabama is impressive enough, but playing
two is very uncommon. Amari Jefferson will be doing just that for
the Crimson Tide after signing to play on both the football and baseball
teams for Alabama.
The four-star wide receiver from Baylor School in Tennessee received
a Mr. Football award, an accolade given to the best players in
the state. Jefferson brings a lot to the baseball diamond as well.
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Sports
HORIZONS
He currently has an overall grade of 9.5/10 on Perfect Game’s website
and is a walking highlight reel with a bat in his hands, boasting a
.429 batting average and a .532 on-base percentage this season.
The Crimson Tide’s elite recruiting prowess is also very evident on
the softball diamond. As a part of the 2024 class, Alabama landed the
eighth-best player in the country, according to Extra Inning Softball.
Kennedy Marceaux is an elite infielder and a two-time nominee for
Gatorade player of the year. The Kaplan, Louisiana, native was also a
two-time district MVP.
Despite her home being just two states over, the tune of “Sweet
Home Alabama” called her to Tuscaloosa. Marceaux said that she
knew in her heart that Alabama was exactly where she wanted to be.
The volleyball team will also be getting a superstar added to the
roster in the fall, as it brought in Alabama Gatorade player of the
year Hannah Parant. Parant was also ranked the No. 1 player in the
state, according to AL.com. The elite setter looks to bring life to a
team that finished last in the SEC in 2023.
“This group of athletes compete at an elite level and will undoubtedly
bring competitive energy to our evolving program here in
Alabama. Their talent and dedication are second-to-none and I have
no doubt they will make a significant impact on our program,” head
coach Rashinda Reed said about the entire recruiting class.
Alabama continues to be a recruiting juggernaut, adding standout
players at seemingly every position in every sport. These athletes
are the next generation of Crimson Tide superstars, and it is only a
matter of time before fans see some of them at the next level.
Soccer forward, Gianna Paul, was the 2022 SEC Freshman of the Year. (CW/Elijah
McWhorter)
18

HORIZONS
How Student Seats is tackling ticket scams
Courtney Larrimore
Sports Editor
As the end of the spring semester approaches, it grows closer to the
time of the year every Alabama student waits for: football season.
But with the risk of getting scammed looming over students’ heads,
it’s hard to relax and enjoy the excitement of fall football.
Many students, including freshman special education major
Dakota Wilson, have had experiences where they were asked to send
money to a person they thought they could trust but never received
the tickets.
“They [Wilson’s friend] were going to buy tickets from someone,
and then she sent them the money and never got the tickets,” Wilson
said.
In 2022, the Better Business Bureau received over 140 reports of
ticket scams and urged the public to be safe and smart when sending
money to people they didn’t know.
Alabama alumni Jared Waller and John Ritondo saw this issue and
created Student Seats as a way for students to exchange tickets safely
and without the risk of getting scammed out of potentially hundreds
of dollars.
During their junior year at Alabama, the two, who were
management and information sciences majors, paired together on a
project that, just four years later, allowed students to safely trade over
$1.4 million worth of tickets.
“It started as a class project,” Waller said. “Then, in 2020, with
COVID happening, all the tickets were getting very highly priced.
We got about 500 users in the first four days of turning it on, but
we ended up selling, I think, eight tickets on it. It was a very small
handful. And then, each year, it’s just compounded on itself and
become the norm at Bama.”
The business model is simple: First, a student will list their ticket
on the site at the price of their choosing. After that, a buyer chooses
the ticket and gives the money to Student Seats as a neutral third
party. Student Seats will then release the funds to the seller once the
buyer has confirmed
that they have received
the ticket.
Because Student
Seats acts as a buffer
between the buyer
and the seller, there is
less possibility of both
getting scammed; if
the buyer doesn’t get
the ticket, they get all
of their money back,
fees included.
There isn’t just
protection for those
buying tickets, though;
sellers also have an
extra layer of security
as Student Seats will let
them know once it has
received the money,
and the process of
19
Sports
transferring the ticket to myBama is safe.
While the application creates a safer way to engage in ticket
trading, some students, like freshman economics major Connor
Kulawiak, acknowledge it’s not a perfect system.
“People love to upsell their tickets,” Kulawiak said, “especially on
the day before the games.”
But the ticket prices aren’t set by Student Seats. It’s about how
much each student is listing their tickets for. For some games, tickets
can cost several hundred dollars.
Luckily for students, there are ways around high prices. According
to Waller and Ritondo, tickets are usually sold for the most on the
Thursday and Friday before game day, but prices go down on the day
of the game because once the game starts, the ticket declines in value
and is practically worthless.
“At the end of the day, it comes down to supply and demand,”
Ritondo said. “We don’t control that, and we’ve built it in every
possible way that we can to incentivize cheaper tickets. It’s tough.”
The incentive for lower ticket prices lies within the website model.
If a seller wants a ticket to sell fast, Waller said, they must make
it cheaper than everyone else’s to reach the top of the list, where
potential buyers are most likely to see it.
While students can take steps to avoid paying top dollar, another
problem that isn’t as easily remedied is the fees associated with
buying tickets.
Waller and Ritondo affirm that the fees are as low as possible and
that students are paying for peace of mind and avoiding losing out
on a lot more money.
“You’re going to probably buy more than a handful of tickets
during your time at UA,” Ritondo said. “You may give us $20 to $30
in fees across all the tickets you buy. But if you get scammed once,
you could lose hundreds of dollars.”
Despite some students’ issues with the application, many agree
that it is better than the
alternative of risking
getting scammed in
GroupMe chats and
Facebook groups.
“I think Student Seats
is great for freshmen
because if a student
isn’t able to go to a
game, they can make a
little money from the
ticket they have instead
of donating it,” said
freshman nursing major
Campbell Hawthorne. “I
used it for a lot of games
last season and never
felt like I was getting
scammed.”
Students cheer in the student section at a home football game. (CW/ Caroline Simmons)

Sports
HORIZONS
All you need to know for the start of the 2024 season
Samuel Prestipino
Assistant Sports Editor
Saban’s departure
After the retirement of head coach Nick Saban and a crushing loss
in last year’s Rose Bowl, Alabama football is headed into one of the
most pivotal seasons in program history. Here is everything that a
freshman should know before kickoff at Bryant-Denny Stadium
Aug. 31.
For the first time since 2007, Saban will not be the head coach of
the Crimson Tide. Saban shockingly retired in January. He is widely
considered one of the greatest college football coaches of all time,
winning six national championships and nine SEC championships
at Alabama.
DeBoer’s introduction
Following Saban is former University of Washington head coach-
Kalen DeBoer, who is fresh off a national championship appearance
last season. UA athletic director Greg Byrne had high praise for
DeBoer when talking about the kind of culture DeBoer brings to
a program.
“Coach Saban had an incredible culture in his program,” Byrne said
on “The Game With Ryan Fowler.” “I think we have an opportunity
to have a very good culture with coach DeBoer and his staff.”
The family type of culture DeBoer brings in mixed with the hunger
that this roster has after last year’s early playoff exit could be a recipefor
success in Tuscaloosa. The Crimson Tide was one of the most
improved teams in the country last season after upsetting Georgia in
the SEC championship and losing an overtime thriller in the College
Football Playoff semifinal at the Rose Bowl game. This is a team full
of driven players who believe they have what it takes to win a national
championship this season.
Backup quarterback Ty Simpson voiced this conviction in a conversation
with DeBoer where he told him he would not be entering
the transfer portal.
“He told coach DeBoer, ‘I want to be a part of your first national
championship team,”’ said Simpson’s father, Jason Simpson.
Wide Reciever Isaiah
Bond jumps to make a
catch for the touchdown
that put Alabama in the
lead over Auburn. (CW/
Riley Thompson)
Changes in the College Football Playoff
It will be tougher than in years past to win the national championship
this season. With the expansion of the College Football Playoff
to a field of 12, teams will have to win more games to claim a title.
Changes in the SEC
Changes will also be coming to the SEC with the introduction of
two new teams and new ways to make it to the SEC championship.
The fresh faces in the SEC, Texas and Oklahoma, will enter their
first year in the conference July 1 after leaving the Big 12. Alabama
will face Oklahoma on the road late in the campaign and will not
face Texas in the regular season for the first time in two years. The
Longhorns notably defeated the Crimson Tide last season in a nonconference
battle in Tuscaloosa.
The SEC has also done away with the division format, meaning that
the two teams with the best records in the conference will qualify for
the SEC championship game.
Despite the dissipation of the division format, Alabama will still
face three of its biggest rivals in 2024: Auburn, Tennessee, and LSU.
The Crimson Tide exacted revenge on 2022 losses to Tennessee and
LSU in 2023 and handed in-state rival Auburn a heartbreaking loss
in the Iron Bowl.
There likely won’t be a taller task than the Crimson Tide’s home
faceoff versus preseason SEC favorite Georgia. The Bulldogs will be
looking to avenge their 2023 SEC championship loss to Alabama,
which kept them out of the playoffs. This game will speak a lot about
the season that the Crimson Tide will have in 2024.
The story for 2024 will be about old and new faces in Tuscaloosa
trying to put the pieces together to make a run for the national title.
Alabama is still a place where the expectation is the immortality of a
national championship, and this is clearly not lost on the new head
coach in town.
“That’s what you come here for,” DeBoer said.
20

HORIZONS
Ava Morthland
Culture Editor
Student guide to wellness on campus
For many students, college is the first time in their lives that they
will have to handle medical issues on their own. University Medical
Center, the Women and Gender Resource Center and the Counseling
Center are on-campus resources that every student should know
about and use throughout their time at the University.
The Student Health Center
The Student Health Center provides women’s health care, psychiatric
care, immunizations, x-rays, lab testing, HIV testing and referrals.
The center also has allergy, nutrition and dermatology clinics.
When visiting the Student Health Center, students will provide a
copy of their insurance to the reception desk. If a student does not
have insurance, their student account will be charged. For students
who have insurance, their account will only be charged if there is
credit due after insurance has been applied.
According to the Student Health Center website, their values are,
“Providing compassionate care with a commitment to excellence,
respecting the individuality, dignity and diversity of each student,
leading with integrity and earning trust, ensuring confidentiality and
effective communication, educating and empowering our students
for healthier living.”
Culture
In the fall students can also take advantage of the free flu shots given
by nursing students who are taking or have completed their second
semester in the program. Brantley Denny, a junior nursing student,
said the flu clinics operate under the motto “Protect the Herd,”
because getting flu shots helps prevent the spread of the flu, thereby
protecting fellow students and teachers on campus.
“Participating in the flu clinic made me more confident in my
abilities as a nurse, but also it makes me proud to know that I played
a part in protecting the herd!” Denny wrote.
The Student Health Center aids in student wellness. (CW/ Hannah Grace Mayfield)
21
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Culture
HORIZONS
The Women and Gender Resource Center
The Women and Gender Resource Center provides free counseling
services to students who are victims of interpersonal violence as well
as friends and family who have been affected by abuse. All services
are confidential and voluntary.
The center also provides support group services in addition to the
individual 50-minute sessions.
Students can call the center to schedule their first appointment. If
they need to speak with a victim advocate outside of regular hours,
they can call UAPD and ask to speak with the WGRC advocate.
The WGRC offers advice, clarification on misconceptions and
frequently asked questions, and answers on its website.
Outside of its office, the WGRC holds events and programs on
campus throughout the year.
Students participate in a walk for suicide awareness. (CW File)
The WGRC hosts multiple tabling events throughout the year. (CW/Hannah Grace
Mayfield)
The Counseling Center
The Counseling Center is a great resource for students to use while
trying to figure out how to navigate college. The center provides
15 free counseling sessions and will help students find appropriate
referrals for further assistance.
The center also provides single 30-minute sessions over the phone
for students who wish to talk to a therapist about a specific concern,
have a specific question, wish to receive specific advice or want
recommendations for other services. Students can call the center and
schedule a same-day appointment.
Group service sessions are also available in the fall and spring, and
the center hosts workshops throughout the year. Students wishing to
attend one of the center’s events can visit their website and check out
the calendar for upcoming programs.
For medical emergencies, students should call 911 immediately.
22

HORIZONS
Culture
Six local bands students should know
Jacob Ritondo
Managing Editor
As you start your time at the University, here’s a look at some of
the biggest names in the local music scene you should watch — and
listen — for.
Wax Monkey
The winner of the second annual SGA Battle of the Bands last fall,
Wax Monkey is a jam rock band you won’t forget. The band’s four
members have been playing together since high school and liven up
fraternities, bars and house parties with their covers of big names in
the scene like the Grateful Dead, Phish, and Widespread Panic.
Top Heavy
This jam band also commanded audiences at the Battle of the
Bands last fall. Top Heavy often plays fan-favorite songs from wellknown
artists in the pop, country, rock and other genres, mixing
it up occasionally with lesser-known jam pieces or original soft or
alternative rock pieces. You can find Top Heavy jamming at bars like
The Booth and The Rabbit Hole or playing for Greek events.
Five Card Draw
Some college bands go the unfortunate route of disbanding after
graduation, but that isn’t so for Five Card Draw. Established at the
University in 2015, this band has been going strong for nearly a
decade thanks to its tradition of recruiting new members to fill the
spots of graduating members.
Students can experience this band’s alternative rock covers of the
Red Hot Chili Peppers, Foo Fighters and more at local bars like The
Red Shed, The Rabbit Hole and Moe’s Original BBQ.
Amberwave
If a broad range of genres is what you like, Amberwave has got you
covered. Their debut EP, “Leland Drive” covers many genres, mainly
centering on indie/alternative rock, while the band is known to cover
2000s pop and indie music, classic rock, and some country. Head to
The Rabbit Hole, Moe’s or Innisfree to catch this group.
Midnight Steel
Classic rock and hits like “Dixieland Delight” and “Mr. Brightside”
are this band’s forte. Composed of six members, including a keyboard
player and flutist, Midnight Steel plays high-energy shows
that enliven local bars, Greek events, and philanthropic events. The
group, which won the 2022 Battle of the Bands competition, has also
released one original single called “On the Run” with more songs in
the works.
Pranxter
Pranxter has been covering ’80s hard rock classics since its formation
in December 2022. You can find its members rocking it out to
hits from Bon Jovi, Van Halen, Motley Crue, and other ’80s legends
at Greek events or at The Red Shed to travel back in time.
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Culture
HORIZONS
Ava Morthland
Culture Editor
Finding your way around campus
The University of Alabama is home to over 40,000 students and offers
various ways to learn about opportunities and resources. Social
media, apps, campuswide events and organizations that any student
can join are all ways to connect with people at the University.
Apps
There are several critical apps that students should download to
stay safe, comfortable and on trackwith their studies on campus.
The University of Alabama suggests that all students download
the UA Safety App to receive UA alerts, weather information, safety
contacts, medical resources, refuge areas and more.
Students can download Blackboard on their phone to help stay on
track with schoolwork and have direct access to course information.
The Bama Dining mobile order app allows students to place to-go
orders at their favorite Bama Dining restaurants ahead of time for
an easy pickup. Additionally, the app lets students see how long wait
times are for each restaurant.
Students can find a full list of software the University provides for
free on the Office of Information Technology’s website.
Social Media
Whether it’s Instagram, Facebook or Snapchat, social media is a
great way for students to know what is going on around campus and
find people to connect with.
The University has an account on both Instagram and Facebook
that updates people on upcoming events and important information.
Finding a department or college on social media can help narrow
down clubs to join and events to attend. Specific college accounts
will post information about scholarships, new student organizations,
awards and events.
Student organizations give updates and post regularly on their
accounts to inform students how to participate in their events.
Students can become a part of their graduating class’s Snapchat
story, where people can post about their lives and can ask questions
to fellow peers.
Most organizations have their social media contact infomation
listed on their mySource page.
Students enjoy a sunny day on the quad. (CW/Elijah McWhorter)
24

25

Culture
HORIZONS
Savannah Ichikawa
Contributing Writer
Exploring food trucks on campus
Whether students are coming to the University as freshmen, only
just beginning their college experience or are returning as seniors,
anxious to finish their last year, the campus offers a wide array of
food trucks with tasty dishes that anyone can enjoy.
These trucks can be found all around campus at various times of
day, making them the perfect lunch, midday snack or dinner option.
From tacos to gyros and smoothie bowls to poke bowls, there is a
meal to satisfy any craving.
Bama Flava
Bama Flava is a local food truck that frequently visits the University’s
campus. It specializes in pecan-smoked meat including ribs,
pulled pork and chicken. With quality meats and delicious side
dishes like mac and cheese, green beans, baked beans and even bread
rolls, this vendor provides tasty and filling meals. It can be found on
campus Monday through Friday and accepts Dining Dollars as well
as Bama Cash.
Blenz Bowls
Grabbing a cold Blenz smoothie bowl is a great way to beat the
heat when it gets especially hot on campus. Blenz has two storefronts
and a food truck in Tuscaloosa and focuses on providing
healthy food to customers. Blenz has a long list of fun smoothies and
smoothie bowls with an array of toppings to choose from. Students
can add protein and wellness shots into any smoothie or bowl. Its
website states, “The fuel we put in our body matters. So here we are
to bring you the best fuel available.”
The La Mexicana food truck is a favorite among students. (CW/Hannah Grace Mayfield)
Cozy Camel
Location: Outside Gorgas Library and Carmichael Hall, weekdays
(10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.)
The Cozy Camel frequents the streets outside Gorgas Library and
Carmichael Hall most weekdays, serving a range of Arabian soul food
options. The Cozy Camel offers gyros, chicken shawarma, quesadillas,
hummus platters, kebab plates and so much more. Its food can even be
ordered online through DoorDash, making it that much more accessible
to students.
La Mexicana
Location: Outside Gorgas Libray, weekdays (10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.)
With a full menu of Mexican cuisine, the truck has flavorful staples
such as tacos with add-on toppings, stuffed burritos, nachos and
quesadillas. With meat options including chicken, carnitas, steak, pastor
and ground beef, there are endless menu combinations to try.
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26

27

Culture
HORIZONS
Try these dorm-friendly recipes
Courtney Stringer
Staff Writer
Embarking on the college journey often means saying goodbye to home-cooked meals that will usually be replaced with fast food and
dining hall meals. However, living in a dorm doesn’t have to be synonymous with instant ramen or other bland, repetitive meals. Though
living on campus might remove many useful tools and ingredients to create tasty meals, here are two recipes that can be made from the
comfort of your dorm.
Breakfast burrito
Waking up early to enjoy the dining hall’s breakfast may be hard for some
students. This storable breakfast burrito will ensure that you can enjoy a
delicious breakfast any day. Using frozen, precooked ingredients not only
allows you to reduce the cook time of your dish, but also allows it to be stored
longer in your freezer.
Chicken fried rice
Elevate your dorm room dining experience with this easy
chicken fried rice recipe and enjoy a takeout-quality dish
without the delivery fees. You can also choose any protein,
such as steak, tofu or shrimp.
Ingredients
1 large flour tortilla
2 precooked Jimmy Dean frozen sausage patties
2 eggs
½ cup of shredded cheese
½ cup Ore-Ida frozen diced hash brown potatoes
1-3 tablespoons of soy sauce
2 eggs
Instructions
CW / Shelby West
1. Place the tortilla on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp
paper towel. Microwave for 30 seconds.
2. Microwave the potatoes and sausage patties using the instructions on
the packages.
Ingredients
1 cup of Tyson oven-roasted diced chicken breast
1 ½ cups cooked frozen or instant rice
1 cup of Pictsweet Farms seasoning blend
½ cup of Birds Eye frozen peas
½ cup of Birds Eye frozen diced carrots
1-3 tablespoons of soy sauce
Instructions
1. In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the rice according to the
instructions on the package.
2. Proceed to cook the diced chicken, following the instructions
on the package.
3. Whisk the eggs together in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in a
microwave for 60 seconds. For softer eggs, reduce the cook time by
15 seconds.
4. Once all of the ingredients have been heated, add them in a line along
the diameter of the tortilla. Then, fold the two sides opposite the fillings
inward. Lastly, roll the tortilla in the direction of the fillings to create
a burrito.
Tip: You can prepare burritos in advance and then store them in the
freezer for an even quicker breakfast option. Additionally, you can
customize the burrito to your liking, adding bacon, chopped vegetables,
or seasonings such as garlic powder, salt and chili powder.
3. Microwave the frozen seasoning blend, peas and diced carrots
according to the instructions on the package.
4. Whisk the eggs together in a bowl, then microwave four to
five times in 30-second increments, whisking in between until
cooked to create scrambled eggs.
5. In a bowl, combine all cooked ingredients, adding in soy sauce
and any seasonings of your choice, such as garlic powder, paprika
or salt.
Tip: If a community kitchen is available, you can stir-fry the rice
by combining all the ingredients after they have thawed in a large
skillet over medium heat in 1-2 tablespoons of vegetable oil.
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28

HORIZONS
Alyssa Walker
Contributing Columnist
Opinion
Time for adulting: Learn to cook
The bright lights of a Chick-fil-A sign beckon as you walk across
campus. The Raising Canes right across the street from your dorm is
oh-so-tempting. Wouldn’t it be nice to browse the variety of options at
a campus dining hall? After a long day in class, these can become the
only thoughts occupying your mind. Your best option, though? Learn
to cook.
If you’re anything like me, your stomach can be very convincing.
Those Dining Dollars are just so easy to spend. However, there’s a
whole semester ahead of you. Eating the same meals day after day
can grow tiring. What seems like a wide array of options will grow
progressively narrower.
Though it may sound intimidating, all of the tools to cook your own
meals in college are at your disposal. The first step is simply starting.
Instead of spending on fast food, try buying your own produce and
ingredients for a healthy meal.
The local Publix is within walking distance of campus for those who
don’t have a car. For those who do, Target is just a 3-mile drive away.
A quick search on Google or Pinterest reveals many quick and easy
recipes you can make in a dorm. You can find anything from soups to
tacos to sandwiches, all with relatively cheap
ingredients and simple instructions.
While you may not have access to an oven in your dorm, most residence
halls on campus contain community kitchens supplied with two
ovens, a microwave and a refrigerator. They are rarely busy, as cooking
is still a new skill for many.
However, it is a vital one. You won’t always have a meal plan to rely
on, so it’s best to learn now before it becomes a necessity, not only for
the long-term benefits, but for the imminent ones as well. Depending
on your meal plan, you may have only 55-90 dining hall meal swipes
a semester.
It’s important to learn how to ration these so they will last throughout
the year. It’s also nice to have a home-cooked meal
sometimes instead of eating solely at buffet-style campus options.
From class to clubs, volunteering to research, you’ll need the energy
and nutrition you can only get from a balanced diet. Cooking your
own meals is a fantastic way to ensure you’re getting the proper nourishment
to support your busy schedule.
College is a time in your life for trying new things and being open to
different experiences. It’s also a time when we all learn how to do the
whole “adulting” thing. Accomplish both by adding a brand new skill
to your toolbox. While it may not show up on your resume, you won’t
ever regret learning to cook.
29

Pay attention to the roommate agreements
John Armstrong
Contributing Columnist
Opinion
HORIZONS
With freshman year quickly approaching, you probably have already
picked out your roommate(s) and are checking off lists of who brings
what, when and where. Once everyone is settled in, be prepared for
your first floor meeting with your residential assistants.
Beyond explaining dorm life’s basic rules and restrictions, the RAs
will hand out a roommate agreement form for each room. While it
may initially seem useless, this form could become a crucial way to
keep the peace if the rooming situation becomes volatile.
This form allows new roommates to set boundaries while living
together. Beyond setting the desired temperature and giving each occupant’s
general information, it sets a limit on noise levels, cleanliness,
and borrowing appliances and food.
It will undoubtedly become apparent that each person has a different
opinion on these matters. The roommate agreement allots the
opportunity to compromise. Some students may delve into the vast
social sphere of the University, and others will depend on a private
space to unwind or study. Proper use of the agreement can appropriately
accommodate both lifestyles.
One can learn only so much about a person through a roommate
preference form.
Junior Makiyah Parker, a psychology major, reflected on a few
reasons she wished she’d set firm expectations for herself and her
freshman year roommates. Parker explained how this roommate
would borrow clothes without asking and leave food out for others to
pick up; but this wasn’t even the worst of it.
“We were in a medical accommodation dorm that wasn’t being used,
which have doorbells on them. She would never remember her key, so
she’d ring the doorbell all hours of the day and night.”
Parker said that students in neighboring rooms grew concerned
after hearing the continuous late-night ringing.
If there are things you think should go without saying, it’s always
safer just to go ahead and say them. Being prepared for conflict with
roommates is the best way to avoid them spiraling out of control.
To read the complete version, please visit thecrimsonwhite.com.
CW / Shelby West
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HORIZONS
Garrett Marchand
Contributing Columnist
Opinion
Participate in local politics
Our nation is unhealthily obsessed with national politics. Being in
an election season, this year is where our obsession balloons beyond
its usual extreme. However, when we focus on national issues, we
often neglect the state and local issues we have more influence over
and that impact us to a greater degree.
Particularly in local elections, voter turnout is abysmally low. In
Birmingham, for instance, the municipal elections of 2021 had a voter
turnout of only 25.28%. This low turnout is the trend nationwide, with
half of the 30 largest cities having voter turnouts below 20%.
While the 2020 election had the highest turnout nationally since
1900, the trend of high turnouts nationwide when compared with
local elections is consistent and represents a fundamental flaw in our
modern political ethos: We act as if national issues matter more than
local ones.
Local issues take a backseat to national ones because the news
we consume, especially among young Americans, is increasingly
nationally focused. As people cut the cord to cable TV and as social
media becomes a larger and larger source of information, access to
local news decreases, and the news we consume reflects national
politics to satisfy the largest audience.
For students, campus politics is much the same as local politics
insofar as we seem to pay little attention to the issues closest to us. In
the most recent SGA presidential election, only 26.01% of eligible
students cast a vote.
As a society, we must divert our attention away from national issues
and toward local matters. Even if the SGA may not seem to impact
our lives as students, new and returning students should make an
effort to engage with the issues on campus and follow local issues because
by practicing civic engagement locally, students can begin to develop
habits that will keep them engaged with the political process as
they age. We do not want a society in which our fellow citizens know
nothing about the issues that face their local communities. Further,
aggrieved citizens need to remember that local political authorities
have important responsibilities and can use the tools at their disposal
to help address their issues in ways national policy cannot.
Local politics influence your school board, your waste pickup, your
roads and much more. While national politics includes many important
issues including Social Security, abortion and immigration, these
issues are not all that matter. At a time in which people are viewing
politics from an increasingly nationalized lens, local issues become of
secondary importance.
To read the complete version, visit thecrimsonwhite.com.
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