Bliss

Spring 2025

alice.ua.edu 1

Cover by Josha Charlery

Design by Sarah Mitchell

Modeled by Kyla Knickrehm

2

Letter

from the

Editor

Bliss is to be in a state of pure peacefulness, without

worry or fear. It is true, unpolluted happiness, in

whatever form it may take on.

It is, of course, wishful thinking to believe that

we could be living in bliss all day every day. Life is just

too complex. There are things that make living without

discomfort impossible: sickness, family drama, romantic

trouble. Sometimes, bliss might even seem to be out of

reach completely.

But at Alice, we believe that bliss comes in

small things, often invisible to those on the outside, but

powerful and potent to those who experience it. Bliss

can look like finding just the right date night outfit or

perfecting your wellness routine. It could be overcoming

workplace challenges or empowering yourself to let go of

something that doesn’t serve you.

For myself and my teammates, our bliss is giving

this magazine to you.

This semester we celebrate the second edition

of the tenth volume of Alice Magazine. Alice’s legacy on

campus has been one of inspiration, of trailblazing and, of

course, of bliss.

Alice has become a space all our own, with places

for each of us to express ourselves as we come together to

create.

The incredible people working behind the scenes

of Alice are the roots to our flowers. Without them, there

would be no growth or color.

Each of these young women has impacted Alice

and my life in their own unique way. Were I to talk about

each, this magazine would be double the length it is at this

moment. For brevity’s sake, I’ll just say: girls, each of you

mean more to me than I could say. I wish I could put it

into words. I’d put my heart in my hand and give it to each

of you if I could. I couldn’t love you any more.

Nothing in this magazine would be what it

is without you. A special thanks is due to Elena Giorgi

and Sarah Mitchell. Elena, thank you for being a friend

to me and a powerful force in our magazine. You inspire

me daily to become a better leader and person. And to

Sarah, I thank you for your immense patience and trust in

me. Your creative vision has taken us places farther than I

could imagine. I am so proud of you.

My time as the editor-in-chief of Alice has been

an outlet of peacefulness, friendship and true, unbridled

joy. I am unspeakably proud of the many accomplishments

garnered and memories made throughout our time

together.

Working with these women and getting to do

what I love and feel called to do is my bliss. Getting to

watch the editors and contributors do incredible things

through their individual passions and talents is the

greatest privilege.

So, without any further rambling, welcome to

our little piece of bliss. I hope you can see all the joy, pride

and intention we put into each page. Every moment was

bliss.

Editor-in-Chief

Caroline Karrh

Photo by Josha Charlery


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4

Mission Statement

Alice is a publication by and for college women, brought to you by a

hardworking staff of University of Alabama students. Alice began in

2015 as the brainchild of a collaborative meeting between faculty and

students who decided we have enough material about Big Al, “so let’s make

it about Alice.”

Alice is bold and inclusive, serving as an accessible source for all

things college. We cover fashion, beauty, entertainment, food & health, and

lifestyle for college women, while also tackling serious issues young women

face, like the gender wage gap and sexual health. Because college women are

more than what we wear and what we look like, but also have we feel, what we

think, and the future we want to build.

Alice is the next generation women’s magazine, emphasizing the

ability women have to support each other and focus on the positives and

potential. Alice is every woman. She is every skin tone, every shape, every

voice and every idea. When she walks into a room, she makes a grand

entrance. When she departs, she leaves each place better than she found it.

She graces the world with love, color and sound, and harnesses the power of

words and images to ignite a celebration of collegiate womanhood, in all its

layered, diverse complexity. She encourages community and empowerment.

A best friend to everyone. All of the women featured in Alice are 100 percent

unretouched because we believe in the beauty in every college woman already

possesses.

Though we do focus on college women, our belief in inclusivity

extends far beyond the content we produce. We want everyone and anyone

to feel like they can pick up our magazine and enjoy – there are no rules for

having fun at Alice!

Editorial and advertising offices for Alice magazine are located at 176

Hackberry Lane, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487. The mailing address is Box 870170,

Tuscaloosa, AL 35487. Phone: 205-348-7257. Alice is published by the Office

of Student Media at the University of Alabama. All content and design are

produced by students in consultation with professional staff advisers. All

material contained herein, except advertising or where indicated otherwise, is

copyrighted © 2025 by Alice magazine. Material herein may not be reprinted

without the expressed, written permission of Alice magazine.

alice.ua.edu 5

Digital Director - Morinsola Kukoyi

Social Media Editor - Madelyn Barr

Marketing Editor - Hannah Hajek

Web Editor - Gabrielle Gunter

Videography Editor - Madison Brainerd

Creative Director - Sarah Mitchell

Design Editor - Isabelle Bennington

Assistant Design Editor - Natalie Adams

Photography Editor - Josha Charlery

Creative

6

Digital

Managing Editor - Elena Giorgi

Food & Health Editor - Maggie Esnard

Features Editor - Abby Cope

Beauty Editor - Lisé Badeaux

Entertainment Editor - Leslie Klein

Lifestyle Editor - Emily Crousore

Fashion Editor - Gabrielle Gunter

Editorial Advisor - Monique Fields

Writing

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8

Table of

Fashion

Entertainment

Step into Spring

12

Why Not Today?

52

Date Night Outfits

14

Rewriting the Script

54

Elevating Eyewear

16

We Need to Talk About it

56

From Punk to Popular

18

Press Play on Self-Care

60

Sitcom Soulmates Quiz

62

Beauty

Lifestyle

A Wrinkle-Free Exploration

of Botox

24

It’s Always Been That Phone

66

The Real Truth in Ink

Dismantling the Shaving

Status Quo

26

28

A Guide to Meeting the Family

Swipe, Tap or Insert

Get Real, Get Smart

70

72

74

Cut, Layer, Dye

30

...And They Were Roommates

76

Hey, What’s Your Lip Combo?

32

Features

Food & Health

Women in Male-

Dominated Fields

The Unsung Heroes

Fighting to be First Generation

36

38

42

Cheers to Balance

Contraceptive Detective

Navigating Nutrition and Intuitive

Eating in College

80

82

84

Ring by Spring

44

From A to Zinc

86

Full Body Wellness

88

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Modeled by Jordan Hall

10

Step into Spring

With Fashion Forward Shoes

Date Night Outfits

Elevating Eyewear

From Punk to Popular

Piercings as Fashion and Self-Expression

12

14

16

18

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By Adyson Keough

Photos by Hannah Grace Mayfield

Design by Tatum Smith

Modeled by Charlie Thompson

Step into Spring

With Fashion Forward Shoes

Every day, students lace up their designated “class

shoe” and trudge through The University of

Alabama’s campus for class, meetings or leisure.

While trekking uphill, wandering through dining halls

and climbing flights of stairs, all college students need a

durable pair of shoes.

Most often, a pair of plain sneakers or running

shoes are the obvious choice for students, but it is time to

put the worn out, used-to-be-white sneakers back on the

shelf, and bring out some fresh, fashion forward shoes.

In the search for the fashionable shoes of 2025,

it was discovered that Vogue’s yearly fashion predictions

would cost buyers upwards of $1,000 to have fashionable

footwear. While comparing past trends to

predictions, budget friendly alternatives for

the fashion world’s 2025 predictions are out

there.

The shoe trend that continues to

reign over the new year is the simplistic

retro sneaker. From Loewes to Miu Mius, the

fashion world loves athletic footwear. This is

not just true for high fashion; it is apparent in

young women today.

Kady Gray and Katherine Sparks are

women’s shoppers for the Pants Store. They work to find

the trendiest footwear for customers, analyze product

popularity and take notes for future trends.

“2024’s most popular shoes were the lifestyle

New Balance styles 327s and 574s,” Gray says.

These athletic, retro sneakers merge comfort and

style together. Easy to style, these are the perfect pair of

shoes for college students.

“New Balances are my everyday shoe. They

are comfortable and cuter than a typical sneaker,” says

Kenilah Spates, a freshman studying criminal justice at

UA.

12

“There are a few 2025 trend predictions we

can think of. We are predicting that the Steve Madden

Momentum and Dolce Vita Notice Velcro sneakers will

be our top sellers in the sneaker category,” Gray says.

Slight detailing added to the common sneaker,

such as Velcro pieces or lace detailing, can add fashionable

flare. Just like the little details, the color of your footwear

can make an outfit. Opting for a colorful shoe rather than

a simple white sneaker can make all the difference in

making an outfit pop.

Another shoe that is athletic in looks and

structure is the Onitsuka Tigers. Trending on TikTok for

their versatility, these shoes are the fashionable cousin of

New Balances.

Another trend prediction for 2025 is the loafer.

Prada and Chanel had loafers galore in their respective

shoe lines, but, understandably, these might be too avantgarde

for a typical college student. Mainly manufactured

using leather, college students typically need a more

comfortable and supportive option. Easy, college friendly

alternatives are flats or sandals.

“Shu Shop Kiki will be popular again this year,”

Sparks says. “This is a sandal that highlights the bow

trend.”

Shu Shop Kiki combines comfort and style with

their footwear. Their Addison or Adele style are sleek flats

with unique designs. Not only are they comfortable, but

they are unique in pattern.

The final Vogue fashion prediction is “fashion

girl pumps.” Although heels on a college campus seems

illogical, the rising popularity of kitten and block heels

can allow for heels to be worn far more casually than

before.

“I know it sounds crazy, but kitten heels make

me feel more confident even if it’s only an inch or so, and

they are decently comfortable,” Spates says.

Block heels and kitten heels are great staple

pieces for a night out look. A simple outfit can be dressed

up to the nines with the addition of these shoes. Timeless

heels are always perfect for a fashionable night out.

“You can dress up your outfit with raffia block

heels like the Matisse Como and Gem,” Gray says.

More and more, fashion outlets are creating

cheaper alternatives for designer shoes, so the possibilities

are endless. In 2025, be ready for the rise of colorful

sneakers, uniquely patterned flats and simple heels to

complete your look.

alice.ua.edu 13

Date

Night

Outfits

By Annalyn Justice

14

A

date night outfit, whether it is a first date with

someone new or a five-year anniversary dinner,

can express so much. Many women struggle to

find the perfect outfit for any occasion, but a date night

has a unique kind of pressure. An outfit can speak to

different aspects of personality. Classy? Smart? Unique?

First impressions are normally made within the first

seven seconds of meeting someone, which puts an extra

emphasis on what to wear when meeting for the first time.

But even if heading on a date with a long-term partner, it

is easy to feel confused and overwhelmed when deciding

what to wear.

“Fashion can sometimes feel like a socially

constructed concept; however, it is important to

remember it is a form of expression,” says Emilia Schalch,

a sophomore marine biology student at The University of

Miami.

The pressure of looking pretty, classy and,

simultaneously, put together can feel enormous, and it

often requires running across the hall to ask a roommate

for advice or a FaceTime call with an older sister.

Most first dates tend to be pretty

casual, like going to grab coffee, a quick lunch

or maybe something more adventurous, like mini golf or

bowling. For these kinds of dates, sticking with jeans and

a sweater is normally a safe bet but could also feel a little

boring.

To add some excitement to any sweater and jean

combo, try pairing a leather belt with some matching

booties and a purse of the same shade.

Ellie Black, a sophomore molecular biology

student at Colgate University, and a major fashion lover,

says dressing up an outfit with drop-down earrings is

her go to. She also loves an off-the-shoulder sweater

and cute jeans for a more casual date night. These

kinds of base

outfits are perfect to build off when wanting to

express oneself a little more. A colorful pop

of color could be added with a unique pair

of earrings or a stylish bag.

On an even more casual date

like yoga or a hike, activewear is a great

solution. Activity-based dates can be a

super fun way to learn more about the person and help

to create a bond with a fun experience. For these kinds

of dates, a matching work-out set would be perfect. If

comfortable, choose a bright color and pair it with some

neutral sneakers or vice versa. Finish the outfit with a

slick-back ponytail or a cute messy bun.

The most important thing about an active date

night, especially one that requires movement, is the ability

to move! Make sure to test out the comfortability and

security of the outfit. Maybe run a lap around a bedroom

or try some jumping jacks.

Design By Isabelle Bennington

The most stress inducing kind of date tends

to be a more formal one. Have an anniversary dinner

coming up or just a special date night in the works? The

first recommendation would be to Google the restaurant.

See if they have any wardrobe suggestions because some

fancy restaurants have rules about dress code. Then, go

through their website to see if pictures of patrons are

available. A safe bet for any nice restaurant would be a

formal dress, a skirt or a nice pair of pants and a nice top.

Try to stick to neutral colors such as black, white, gray

and nude. A dark red or navy is also a great idea for those

who like more color! To dress up any simple dress, some

chunky gold hoops or a simple necklace is safe.

At the end of the day, a date outfit can be a wide

range of things: from jeans to a cocktail dress and more.

Lori Levine, the former operations manager at Limited

and seller at Jia Boutique located in Millburn, New Jersey,

suggests expressing who you are through what you wear.

If outgoing and adventurous, throw in some sparkles; if

on the shyer side, opt for muted colors. For Levine, who

is a very outgoing person, heels, bags and tons of chunky

jewelry are always a must.

When it comes down to it, the most important

thing about a date night outfit is how you feel. If feeling

nervous, overdressed or underdressed, giving yourself a

little pep talk in the mirror before leaving is a great idea.

If you’re feeling comfortable in what you are wearing and

confident, it will show! No matter what someone has on,

their personality will be the most beautiful thing about

them.

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Elevating Eyewear

By Sofia Toro

16

Glasses have made their official debut in the fashion Ultimately, selecting the right frames is not just about

world as an accessory. From big chunky frames to functionality. It is is a way to add a quirky touch to any

colorful or patterned ones, glasses are now being look.

used for more than just vision correcting purposes. What

“I feel like different frames allow personalities

was once solely a tool for enhancing eyesight is now so to show through frame sizes and colors and shows their

much bigger. Glasses can now be anything from a piece uniqueness,” says Samantha Borz, a sophomore nursing

of costume jewelry to the cornerstone of a new aesthetic. student at UA.

For modern glasses wearers, it is all about self-expression.

Do not be afraid to branch out when seeking

“Glasses makes someone look more confident new frames. There are hundreds of companies combining

and approachable,” says Chloe Jensen, a sophomore cutting edge vision technology with sleek and trendy

nursing student at The University of Alabama.

styles of glasses.

Choosing a frame that best reflects the wearer

One Korean company is riding the wave of

can be a fun task. It is like adding a cherry on top of a glasses’ newfound popularity. Gentle Monster, a South

sundae!

Korean luxury glasses company, is booming with demand.

Glasses have come a long way from Pince-nez. Their new Enchanting Jewelry Collection combines

They now come in all different shapes, sizes and styles. jewelry with glasses. From whimsical to unique frames,

Different frames allow different personalities to come this collection is elevating eyewear.

through. A bold red frame is striking to the eye, whereas a

There are also hundreds of more affordable

dainty frame can be seen as more conservative. The frame options on the market, too. Target offers cute frames for

that feels right can create a sense of empowerment and act all types of vision, as well as blue light glasses, which can

as a conversation starter for the wearer.

help block the blue light coming from phone or laptop

“Anything that we do to supplement our screens that has been known to cause headaches or

appearance is for protection, beauty or communication, sleeplessness. Besides the benefits for eyes, a $20 pair of

but it definitely has more to do than just function,” says blue-light glasses can be the perfect accessory to an outfit

Dr. Thompson, a professor in the Department of Apparel and serve as a confidence boost. Warby Parker boasts

and Textiles at UA. “It is a playful opportunity to express their $99 frames that are stylish and on trend. There is

one’s personal flair.”

always Amazon, too, with thousands of styles and colors

Frames allow for personal expression beyond of blue-light, reading and nonprescription frames.

the traditional accessories like jewelry or headwear.

For whatever your vision capabilities may be, try

Opting for a bold frame, instead of a chunky bracelet, can a pair of glasses in your next new look. It could be just

be an accessory that changes the whole look of an outfit. what you need to take your fashion over the top!


Photos by Josha Charlery

Modeled by Jordan Hall, Anna Spencer and Elizabeth Rice

alice.ua.edu 17

From Punk

to Popular:

Piercings as Fashion

and Self-Expression

By Emma Cate Dailey

Modeled by Isabelle Bennington

For decades, piercings have been categorized and

associated with all things negative. When thinking

of a heavily pierced person, the word “punk” might

come to mind. Deeming something punk conjures

visions of mohawks, safety pin piercings, abnormal facial

piercing placements and industrial silver jewelry. These

serve as stereotypes for pierced people in the minds of

the middle-aged, suburban parents of America, who

still associate a second lobe piercing with biker bars and

cigarettes.

However, piercings are, and have always been,

more than that. Piercings are inherently punk, but it is

time to reclaim the idea of piercings as a form of selfexpression

and fashion in the way punk piercing culture

always intended.

Piercings are one of the most artful forms of

self-representation, allowing people to show off their

personalities in a creative, semi-permanent way. They

add a certain level of sparkle and spunk to any outfit, like

a gold nose ring accenting an otherwise basic “groutfit” or

an earring stack featuring the birthstones of close friends

and family. It is a fashion statement that highlights

individuality and allows the wearer to communicate

something about themselves.

“Piercings are what complete an outfit, and

jewelry brings to life the look you hope to create,” says

Darby McCormick, a licensed professional piercer at

Ghostfire Tattoo in Shreveport, Louisiana. “Big and

chunky gold hoops, dainty diamonds or flashy designs—

your piercing options are limitless. Different styles,

piercing placements and certain stones stand out when

18

“They’re more than just accessories; they’re a

representation of who I am and how I choose to

present myself to the world.”

paired with your metal of choice and in turn, make you

stand out.”

McCormick has options ranging from

thick gunmetal septum rings to intricate floral studs,

highlighting how piercings are not designed with just

one kind of person in mind.

Kalleigh Ahern, a senior studying public

relations at The University of Alabama, proves this

theory as the proud owner of 11 ear piercings and one

nose piercing.

“My piercings have always been a form of selfexpression,

a small but meaningful way to showcase my

personal style,” Ahern says.

Ahern is involved in several organizations on

campus and, naturally, makes an impression on everyone

she meets with her piercings. They are a critical factor in

what makes her, her.

Bianca Milburn, a senior studying public health

at UA, feels similarly about her journey with piercings.

With 11 ear piercings, she realized after her first lobes

how much she loved having piercings and quickly kept

going.

“I know a lot of people who express themselves

through jewelry like bracelets and necklaces, but mine

was always on my ear,” Milburn says.

Camilia Philon is a freshman studying nursing

at UA. After having to re-pierce her first lobes seven

times, she became entranced with piercings after a final

trip to Claire’s. By the age of 12, she had her second lobe

piercings, and from there, Philon was hooked. In a very

punk manner, she began doing her own piercings, which

she often got in trouble for, but thought it was worth

it. She has since expanded into both facial and body

piercings, and believes they are a way for her to enhance

her personal style without saying a word.

“It’s almost like a signature that evolves with

me,” Philon says.

Piercings are a tool of self-expression and an

avenue for self-alteration to allow for the clearest form of

being oneself. Piercing an area one might not initially find

to be appealing or beautiful can change self-perception,

allowing people to feel the most like themselves.

“My nose was always my least favorite feature,

so I decided to do something about that feeling,”

Ahern says. “Getting my nose pierced wasn’t just about

confidence; it was about making a change that made me

feel like me.”

Milburn agreed with this sentiment of selfexpression

through body modification.

alice.ua.edu 19

Modeled by Sarah Mitchell

“For me, each piercing is a form of selfexpression

and a way to show my personality and

individuality,” Milburn says. “They’re more than just

accessories; they’re a representation of who I am and how

I choose to present myself to the world.”

“Piercings feel like the perfect balance between

permanence and flexibility,” Philon says. “They became

a part of me, yet not necessarily forever, which makes

them such a unique medium for self-expression.”

It is time to move past the negative, harmful

stereotypes and perceptions of piercings embedded in

American culture created by a more critical generation,

who deemed all things piercing to be punk. It was, in

fact, the 1970s punk movement that brought about

multiple ear piercings, which have transformed into the

“ear stacks” that serve as a fashion statement today. As

grateful as everyone should be to the punk movement

for promoting piercing culture, the coolest thing about

piercings being punk is the idea of individualism and

self-expression that piercings allow for. Piercings are

truly inclusive for everyone, and what is more punk than

that?

Photos by Lauren Waters

Design by Natalie Adams

20

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22

A Wrinkle-Free Exploration of Botox

The Real Truth in Ink

Dismantling the Shaving Status Quo

Cut, Layer, Dye

Hey, What’s Your Lip Combo?

24

26

28

30

32

alice.ua.edu 23

A Wrinkle -Free

Exploration of Botox

By Margaret Leach

Design by Shelby West

Stroll into any woman’s personal bathroom today

and you will find creams, serums and masks that

aim to prevent the signs of aging and fine lines.

Each year, the beauty industry rolls out new products

promising what seems like the fountain of youth in a

bottle. The idea of aging, where one must overanalyze

even the finest lines and smallest imperfections, is

not new to women.

Aging, or rather the process of preventing

it, has been around much longer than creams and

serums. In the Elizabethan era, women would apply

slices of meat to their faces as a form of skincare,

and in Cleopatra’s day between 69AD and 30BC,

she would bathe in tubs of donkey’s milk. It is safe

to say women’s beauty and anti-aging treatments

have come a long way since the days of covering

one’s body in food.

More recently, those seeking a semipermanent

fix for their lines and wrinkles have

turned to a new solution. After receiving FDA

approval in 1989 for therapeutic usage, Botulinum

toxin-A rebranded to the now infamous name,

Botox, and began trending across the world.

By 2002, Botox was approved as a temporary

cosmetic treatment.

The University of Pennsylvania’s Penn

Medicine News explains that although Botox has

become synonymous with cosmetic treatment,

it is also used by many to help treat migraines,

foot pain and eyelid spasms.

Amber Warren is a sophomore at The

University of Alabama studying psychology

with minors in classical civilizations,

philosophy and neuroscience. Warren has suffered from

chronic migraines since the age of 14 and will be receiving

Botox treatment this summer as recommended by her

doctors in both Alabama and her home state of North

Carolina.

"

When I mention [Botox] to people

who don’t know me, they never

assume it’s for medical reasons.

Though I would never get it for

cosmetic reasons, I would never

judge someone for it.

— Amber Warren

"

“I’ve been on multiple different medications,

and nothing has worked,” Warren says. “When I

mention [Botox] to people who don’t know me,

they never assume it’s for medical reasons. Though

I would never get it for cosmetic reasons, I would

never judge someone for it.”

In a society with a general lack of knowledge

around Botox’s medicinal uses comes a culture of

many misconceptions about cosmetic uses, too. In

February of 2023, The American Academy of Facial

Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery announced that

24

nearly 75% of facial plastic surgeons report “increases

in the number of patients under 30 years old requesting

cosmetic surgery or injectables.”

Shifa Jalali, a sophomore studying psychology

with minors in general business and biology on a prephysician’s

track, warns that members of Gen Z seeking

Botox treatment may be paying for all the wrong reasons.

Jalali is a medical assistant and OR circulator

at Reveal Beauty Cosmetic Surgery in Vestavia Hills,

Alabama. She explains many surgeons across the country

will reject young women who come in with nothing to

treat and the idea they can get ahead of their aging before

it starts.

"

People think Botox is preventative

rather than a fix. People come in

thinking Botox reverses aging, but all

it’s doing is freezing your face.

"

— Shifa Jalali

“People think Botox is preventative rather than

a fix,” Jalali says. “People come in thinking Botox reverses

aging, but all it’s doing is freezing your face. It blocks

nerve signals, so the muscles can’t contract.”

In the state of Alabama, a full Botox treatment

can cost over $300. People, often young women, will

continue to spend an absurd amount of money on a

treatment that may not work. Why are young women

looking to cosmetic treatments at all?

Emma Gil de Rubio is a sophomore majoring in

political science and minoring in advertising and public

relations at UA. Gil de Rubio, who works as the marketing

intern for Women in Politics and Athlete Relations,

says social media and its influencers can sway people’s

opinions of their self-image.

“Some people will get treatments because of

[online] comparison and insecurity, and others will get

it because that’s what they want,” Gil de Rubio says. “On

TikTok, there’s so many young girls who love influencers.

It’s not the influencers’ job, but transparency is the best

way to go. Be honest. For them to say it’s not natural to

look like that is better than pretending.”

Though aging often receives a bad rap in the

beauty and social media industry, the entertainment

industry is slowly helping to defy the beauty standard.

Recent films like “Babygirl” starring Nicole Kidman, “The

Substance” starring Demi Moore and “The Last Showgirl”

starring Pamela Anderson have shown audiences that one

can still celebrate their femininity and sexuality at any

age.

“Embrace who you are and that makes you more

beautiful regardless of any cosmetic surgery,” Warren

says.

All cosmetic treatments will need

upkeep appointments, and all anti-aging

products have expiration dates. Authenticity,

however, will never expire and

never go out of style.

alice.ua.edu 25

the Real

Truth

By Lisé Badeaux

in Ink

The steady buzz of a tattoo machine hums through

the air, punctuated by the occasional pause as

artists dip their needles into fresh ink. Clients

sit, focused, breathing through the sting as a new story

takes shape on their skin. This ritual — both ancient and

modern — connects individuals across time and cultures,

and each tattoo serves as a personal emblem of identity,

memory and transformation.

Tattoos have long served as markers of culture,

status and personal journeys. From the intricate tatau

of Polynesia to Japan’s irezumi and the sacred ink of

Indigenous peoples, body art has been a universal form of

expression. Historically, tattoos signified rites of passage,

protection or rebellion against societal norms.

“Almost all cultures use tattoos for spiritual or

ritualistic purposes, depending on how spiritual and ritual

are defined,” says Dr. Christopher Lynn, a professor in The

University of Alabama’s Department of Anthropology.

“The Samoans, for instance, have a variety of rules for

those receiving the tattoos, for the families attending the

tattooing and complete a tattoo with a ceremony called

the ‘sama’.”

Today, the meaning behind tattoos continues

to evolve, blending tradition with contemporary artistry.

People get tattoos for countless reasons — some to honor

loved ones, others to commemorate milestones and some

simply as a form of artistic self-expression. Each tattoo

tells a different story, holding deep personal significance.

Toni Rebaldo, a doctoral candidate in the

Department of Advertising and Public Relations at UA,

fondly recalls the moment she decided to get her first

tattoo.

“My first tattoo was a cross on my neck,” Rebaldo

says. “I thought it was cute and trendy at the time, but I

am Christian, so the connection of the cross as protection

is what I think sold me on it.”

For Rebaldo, it was more than just ink; it was

a piece of her identity, whether it was a subconscious

realization or not.

The process of getting a tattoo is an experience

in and of itself. It begins with an idea, whether abstract or

clear, that transforms into a design. The artist and client

collaborate, refining the artwork before the needle ever

touches skin.

The sensation also varies; some describe it as a

scratch, others as a deep vibration. Beyond the physical

feeling, there is an emotional weight to the moment. The

process is meditative, even cathartic for some. For many,

it is a deliberate act of reclaiming their body, celebrating

autonomy and embracing change.

26

This calls upon tattoo shops to become more than

just businesses — they are creative spaces where artists

bring stories to life. Each shop has its own atmosphere,

whether it is a sleek, modern studio or a cozy, eclectic

space covered in flash art and framed sketches.

Jack Bryars, a tattoo artist at Old Familiar Tattoo

Company in Mobile, Alabama, understands the nature

and respect the job takes.

“I’ve found that many people get tattoos for

many different reasons. With time spent with the practice,

you learn from past mistakes from yourself and others.

You learn with dedication how to make a design that’s

bulletproof and will hopefully stand the test of time,”

Bryars says.

In the industry, respect for the craft is paramount.

Artists take pride in their work, ensuring each piece

reflects the client’s vision while maintaining artistic

integrity. The connection between artist and client often

goes beyond the tattoo itself, forming bonds that last a

lifetime.

Tattoos are more than just skin deep. They are

symbols of identity, resistance and remembrance. Whether

inspired by worn history or spontaneous creativity, each

tattoo carries meaning beyond what the eye can see.

As society continues to embrace body art,

it is important to recognize tattoos not as trends but

as powerful forms of self-expression. They tell stories

without words, etching personal history onto the body —

one needle stroke at a time.

Photos by Elijah McWhorter


Modeled by Hannah Grace Mayfield and Cece Thompson

alice.ua.edu 27

Dismantling

The

Shaving

Status

Quo

By Lawson Vieley

Design by Isabelle Bennington

Photos by Lauren Waters

The idea of shaving has been around since the 14th

century, long before most beauty trends known

today. What started as a simple grooming habit

has evolved into a symbol of self-care, but it also brought

shifting beauty ideals and social pressures.

Believe it or not, shaving as we know it today

was not always a concept — it was sold. In 1915, a Gillette

advertisement targeted women for the first time, pushing

the idea that smooth, hair-free skin was the key to true

femininity.

Just like that, the “ideal body” was redefined.

Here is the real question: Do women shave for themselves,

or for a standard they never signed up for?

The reality is that shaving is a personal choice

— one that every woman should feel empowered to make

for herself. Gone are the days when the media dictated

beauty standards and reinforced the stigma around

body hair. Today, stars like Lady Gaga, Julia Roberts

and Drew Barrymore are redefining the norm, proving

that confidence is not about conforming — it is about

embracing what feels right.

“If it’s something you want, go for it. I choose to

shave, but at the end of the day, we should all respect each

other’s choices, because that’s what it is — a choice,” says

Kendall Tillery, a freshman majoring in graphic design at

The University of Alabama.

To create false narratives of uncleanliness or

fearmongering only reinforces harmful stereotypes. The

reality is that body hair was never a “problem,” and the

ingeniously marketed razor not a “solution” (as much as

dated marketing strategies would like to differ). The only

real problem was convincing women they had one in the

first place.

Madison Gouin, a sophomore majoring in

political science at UA and rugby player, advocates for

personal choice.

“We recommend not shaving before games, but I

shave otherwise. Still, I wonder if I’d feel the same without

societal norms,” Gouin says. “Society often perceives

women who shave as cleaner or more hygienic, which

is false. Still, I sometimes find myself falling into that

mindset.”

Despite outdated expectations and societal

pressures, shaving is ultimately a personal choice, one that

should be made based on comfort and individual values

rather than external judgment.

Antonia Buscemi, a seasoned beautician and

licensed waxer with years of experience in the industry,

believes beauty comes in many forms.

“There isn’t one mold for how our bodies should

look — I’ve seen incredible differences in women, both

young and old,” Buscemi says. “What really matters is

feeling comfortable in your own skin. No one else has the

right to dictate how we achieve that sense of confidence

and self-acceptance.”

With this shift, especially in today’s evolving

industries, the future looks promising for brands

embracing inclusivity and for women feeling empowered

to prioritize their own preferences over fleeting trends.

Whether they choose to shave or not, the decision will be

driven by self-expression, comfort and authenticity.

28

alice.ua.edu 29

Cut

Layer

Dye

How A Hair Makeover

30

Can Change Your Look

By Emmy Frye

Each new look offers an

“opportunity for reinvention.

“Hair can absolutely impact confidence,

color, hair has the power to do more than just especially for someone returning to the workforce, reentering

dating or coming through a major life change or

change how we look. It is a blank canvas,

allowing people to express themselves, experiment with milestone,” Chapman says.

different looks and even unlock a side they never knew

A hair transformation can often be symbolic

existed — a total transformation. A hair makeover allows of shedding an older version of oneself and embracing

wearers to embody unique facets of themselves and, a new one. This kind of change can be a powerful step

perhaps, potentially uncover hidden aspects of their lives. in boosting self-esteem, especially when feeling stuck or

Figuring out what type of hairstyle, color and uncertain in life. The psychological impact of hair change

length works best for each individual is the ultimate is real.

game changer and can serve as a reset button for one’s

“I felt more confident and loved how my skin,

appearance. Hairstylists often recommend choosing a cut features and physical attributes were enhanced with

that compliments one’s natural face shape.

darker hair,” says Gracynn Gough, a freshman basketball

“A haircut can enhance face shape through bangs player at the College of Holy Cross in Massachusetts.

or fringe to counter a long face,” says Kim Chapman, a

Selecting the perfect haircut, color and style

professional cosmetologist for “Inside NASCAR” and the can feel overwhelming. There are so many looks to

on-air talent for NBC Sports. “It can also create height to choose from that it can be difficult to pick which one

help a fuller face appear slimmer.”

to experiment with first. A chic bob can soften a sharp

Hair may seem like such a simple change, but it jawline, while side-swept bangs or layers frame the

can produce drastic results.

face, accentuating the eyes and cheekbones. Bright and

Confidence plays a major role in a haircut. bold dye choices empower creativity to come to life on

Sophie Meyer, a sophomore at Chamberlain University a hairstyle. A wolf cut, layered and shaggy, is perfect

College of Nursing in Indianapolis, knows all about this. for adding volume to thinner hair creating a carefree

“I went from having hair all the way down my vibe. Long soft layers can create the most beautiful and

back to chopping my hair about two inches below my effortless 90s blowout, giving that perfect combination of

chin,” Meyer says. “I even dyed my hair blonde.”

smoothness and bouncy texture that is so iconic.

Layers and bangs have become major trends in

When choosing a hair makeover, lifestyle comes

recent years, capturing everyone’s attention with their into play as well. More vibrant hair colors can be harder to

effortlessly chic appeal. Layers can create the most perfect maintain and often require regular touch-ups. Although

dimensional flow within hairstyles. Adding face framing shorter hair may seem best for a busy lifestyle, it can

layers flatters just about any face shape and gives dull hair actually require the most up-keep with daily styling and

more movement and body.

frequent trims to maintain its length. Consulting with

Bangs, specifically curtain bangs, have joined the a stylist is the best route to take, so find the inspiration

conversation of hair trends. Sabrina Carpenter’s signature pictures off Pinterest or TikTok and give it a try.

luscious curtain bangs have become the iconic style to

Thinking of a hair glow-up? Go for it. In the

copy. Movement in hair, like bangs and layers, is a simple, end, it is just hair — and the beauty of hair is that it will

yet perfect, way to jazz up any hairstyle.

grow back. Each new look offers an opportunity for

A hair makeover can do much more than reinvention. Hair is one of the most versatile and personal

reinvent appearance — it can start a new era. Hair ways to express yourself. Who knows, that style might just

change can represent a fresh start and an expression of be the new look, so why not experiment? A new hairstyle

confidence. A new cut or color is not just about changing might be just the confidence boost that is needed.

how we look, but rather it is about changing how we feel.

Hair and confidence go hand in hand.

W

hether it be a dramatic chop or a splash of

“


Modeled by Emery Stacy

Photo by Madilyn Wilson

alice.ua.edu 31

What is something that never goes out of style,

elevates confidence immediately and completes an

entire look? Yep, it is a lip combo! A few seconds spent

applying lip liner, lipstick and lip gloss could change an

entire day. It could even be called a match made in heaven.

However, how does one find the perfect combination? It is

not always easy to discover both timeless and trending lip

combos, but there are a few tips and tricks of figuring out

the best signature lip combo.

Lippies Through the Decades

The perfect lip combo has always been evolving.

From the bright reds of the 20s to the nudes of the 60s, lip

combos have seen every side of the color wheel. The red

carpet has even seen a purple lip or two. Despite the everchanging

colors, some lip products have stood the test of

time. Clinique’s Black Honey serves as a perfect example.

“It’s a sheer and workable product that works on

every skin tone,” says Chel’Sea King, a Clinique specialist

and licensed esthetician. “Anyone can wear this color.”

Trending Combos

The Charlotte Tilbury Lip Cheat lip liner and

Pillow Talk lipstick has become a classic and trending

combo, but there are others to note. In a TikTok posted

by Billie Eilish that received over four million likes in

less than 24 hours, she wore the viral Sacheu Peel Off Lip

Liner Stay-N in the shade pINKED paired with Tower28’s

One Liner lip liner in the shade Work of Art for a perfect

pinky-nude look. Even the popular soda “Cherry-Cola” is

now trending as a lip combo by pairing a deep liner with

a crimson or purplish shade.

Drugstore Versus High-End Brands

Not all perfect lip combinations have to be

expensive. The popular debate between drugstore versus

high-end has brought fame to brands like NYX and e.l.f.

whose products have been praised for being seemingly

better than the pricier products. The ideal combo might

include one or the other, or maybe even both.

32

Hey, What’s

Your Lip Combo?

By Laura Junkin

“I use the Charlotte Tilbury lip liner in the shade

Pillow Talk with the Essence Soft & Precise lip pencil in

the shade My Choice,” says Isabella Olguin Summers, a

junior majoring in marketing on the pre-law track at The

University of Alabama.

Summers is a great example of using a

combination of an expensive product paired with a more

reasonably priced one. The point is that everybody can

find what works for them without having to drop a pretty

penny to do so.

Tips for Long-Lasting Lips

Worried about having to reapply the perfect

combo constantly? Don’t fret — a few solutions exist! Try

finding a long-wear formula or a trustworthy lip stain. A

lip primer can even enhance longevity while translucent

powder atop a lipstick can set it into place. Experiment

with your lips to see what product helps your lips hold

their look the longest.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

“Balance is a big thing,” says Luke Harbison, the

Lancôme specialist for Ulta in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. “Too

much gloss can be sticky, and overdrawing the lips can

sometimes get a little out of hand.”

Choosing shades that clash with each other, an

outfit or even one’s skin tone may offset the look. Make

sure to blend and use compatible textures. Harbison offers

a lip tip: always make the corners of the lips darker and

fuller with liner and thinner on the top around the shape.

When finding a signature lip combo, the

possibilities are endless. Try new things and be open to

suggestions. Lip combos are for everyone, and the feeling

after finding just the right one is exhilarating, so do not

quit your search for the perfect lip combo yet. Maybe

it is magic or maybe it is science, but there is no doubt

that finding the perfect lip combo can be the answer to

problems you did not even know existed.

Design by Miho Kimura

Photos by Madilyn Wilson

Modeled by Emery Stacy and Jordan Hall

alice.ua.edu 33

Photo by Emmy Waugh

34

Women in Male-Dominated Fields

How Far Women Have Come and How Far

They Still Have to Go

36

The Unsung Heroes

Of The University of Alabama

38

Fighting to be First Generation

Ring by Spring

42

44

alice.ua.edu 35

Women

By Emily Crousore


Photos by Emmy Waugh

In Male-Dominated

Fields

How Far Women Have

Come and How Far

They Still Have to Go

Think something is a man’s job? Think again.

With industries evolving and support for women

growing, more and more jobs are no longer defined

by gender. In today’s society, women are dominating in

fields historically controlled by men. The women in these

roles are breaking barriers — remaining prideful of their

past while paving the way for the future generations.

2024 graduate from The University of Alabama

and former ROTC student, Victoria Crane is waiting to

begin training for the U.S. Air Force. After being the only

girl in her Civil Air Patrol program in high school, Crane

learned valuable insight from her female mentors.

“Back then, it was a whole different ballpark, and

you could see how that affected the way they interacted

with cadets,” Crane says. “I think the struggle they went

through to pave the way for us was intense because now,

overall, the military is a very welcoming and diverse place

compared to what it used to be.”

It is important to remember the challenges

women faced to get to where they are today. Crane

mentions a favorite professor, who makes sure his students

do not forget their past hardships.

“His wife was in the Navy back in the day, and

seeing her struggle through the military, he goes through

the hallway and every time he sees one of the girls who is

a student, he’ll say ‘Thank you so much for what you’re

doing, I know it can be hard.’ He knows from his wife’s

experience how difficult it was,” Crane says.

36

“Demand respect because they

are not going to give it to you.”

Having the support of the men on the team or

crew, especially higher-ranking ones, can help women feel

more comfortable and less like an outsider.

Even more, having a female mentor helps women

see the path laid before them, and continue to pave their

own.

Courtney Miller, the executive director of

external relations at UA’s Culverhouse College of Business,

lives by the advice given to her by mentor and UA business

superstar, Marilyn Hewson.

“She taught me a lot,” Miller says. “As long as you

know you belong in the room, you absolutely deserve to

be there. As long as you are competent and know what

you’re doing, don’t ever feel like you don’t deserve to be in

a room.”

If not for the women who came before them,

today’s professionals might not have the confidence to

stand strong and own their space. Despite these women

breaking barriers in the workplace, self-doubt still lingers.

“I was up for a promotion at one point, and I

went home and talked to my husband where we had this

conversation of ‘I just don’t know if I am ready for it’.”

Miller says. “And he told me ‘No man ever thinks this’.”

Although significant progress has been made,

there are challenges these women still face today in the

workforce. One of the most prominent is the battle of

being a career woman while nurturing a family at the

same time.

“If a woman decides to have family and have kids

and all those things, there are these automatic questions

like ‘Are you going to stay home?’ and ‘What will this do to

your career?’” Miller says. “There’s a different perception

of how we should handle our jobs once we have children.”

Miller emphasizes the importance of

understanding workplace culture, especially for young

women entering the workforce.

“When choosing a job even pre-family, culture is

an important thing. Anytime any woman is interviewing

for a job, I really encourage her to know what’s important

to her,” Miller says. “If wanting to eventually have a family

one day, talking to other females at the company to see

if that’s something that company is great about or if it’s

something looked down upon.”

It is important that women continue to share

their knowledge with the younger generations, as these

women are still fighting these preconceived notions.

Emma Church, a junior biology major on the

pre-med track, has already gained valuable experience in

the medical field. Along the way, she has also observed

firsthand the challenges that come with being a woman in

medicine.

“A challenge I have faced in a male-dominated

field is the daily discrimination and stereotypical

behaviors,” Church says. “For example, sometimes I walk

into the room and people assume I’m the nurse instead of a

medical student. A way I have navigated this is correcting

them politely. I’ve also noticed how it’s hard to be a female

specifically in medicine because there’s really no time in

your progression to take time off to build a family.”

Thankfully like Crane and Miller, Church has

looked to mentors on how to overcome these hardships.

“The best piece of advice I’ve received is from

a female interventional cardiologist that I shadowed,”

Church says. “She told me that you have to demand

respect because they’re not going to give it to you. At the

end of the day, you have the same degree men do, so show

up with confidence, and don’t let anyone disrespect you.”

Women will continue to thrive in their fields, and

with each generation, their fire of passion only continues

to burn brighter. It can be intimidating to enter a career

field that is usually dominated by the opposite sex — but

it is these leaps of faith that lay the groundwork for the

women that come after us to succeed.

alice.ua.edu 37

The Unsung Heroes

of the

University of Alabama

By Abby Cope


The University of Alabama is known for many things:

its beautiful campus, its Southern hospitality, and,

of course, its amazing athletic department.

The Capstone is a well-oiled machine. There are

fresh flowers every gameday, hot breakfast in the dining

halls ready at 7:00 a.m., elevators in any given building

running smoothly and smiling faces to help with any issue

that may arise.

However, this does not just magically happen. It

takes a team of hardworking employees to make campus

life as wonderful as it is for each and every student, and

these workers do not tend to make the front page of any

newspapers or the top of anyone’s “thank-you” list. It is

high time they get the recognition they deserve.

From the grounds crew to the custodial staff to

the dining hall chefs, four years here on campus would

not be nearly as memorable without the people most

often forgotten. It is time to give the flowers to those who

make sure they are always blooming in front of Bryant-

Denny Stadium.

Kim Byram is UA’s grounds department manager.

He has worked at the Capstone for over 13 years. Byram’s

day-to-day workload varies, but his typical week includes

about 50 hours of work.

“At the beginning of the week, there are several

weekly meetings that I must attend. On the average day,

I answer dozens of emails and phone calls from other

campus partners, employees and multiple suppliers,”

Byram says. “When I am not doing those things, you will

find me driving all over campus looking at all the different

aspects of the job that our people take care of. There are

few dull days due to our complexity and moving parts.”

Byram and his teams’ work is paramount

to campus development and appearance, but most

students or visitors don’t understand the importance of a

functioning grounds crew.

“The one thing that the students may not realize

is the dedication and pride that the grounds crew take in

their job,” Byram says. “They love making campus look

awesome, and they want it to always look that great. We

talk within our team that they are helping make the next

38

class of legends, and if the students are going to become

legendary, then they need to walk on legendary grounds.”

These are not the only people who spend their

days making sure the students’ ones are a breeze. Ever

wonder how the bathrooms in class buildings are always

spick and span, even with thousands of students going

in and out every hour? Enter Greg Gettings, the director

of custodial services at the Capstone. It is no easy task

to pick up after nearly 40,000 adolescents, but Gettings

makes sure the job gets done.

With experience as a Marine Corps base

contractor, Gettings is no stranger to the hard work and

dedication it takes to work in custodial services. Though

he typically has 40-hour work weeks, Gettings says

he is available 24/7 for helping out his Alabama family

and faculty. This devotion has paid off, as the Custodial

Services Department has achieved major milestones

during his time here.

“UA Custodial Services has received national

recognition from APPA, the Association of Physical

Plant Administrators, for its commitment to improving

customer service related to summer housing operations,

"

Our team takes pride

and ownership in their work,

and they strive to do everything

they can to provide the

best experience on campus for

the students, faculty and staff.

— Collin Sewell

"

which has resulted in other prominent universities

reaching out to our department in order to learn how to

improve their customer service processes,” Gettings says.

Gettings and his team are a prime example of the

excellence that ensues behind the Script A.

The “Bama Standard” overflows into every part

of UA’s systems, including building maintenance. Collin

Sewell is the director of building maintenance at the

Capstone. Just like any other department, Sewell runs a

tight ship and has much to show for it.

“For the last 10 years, the Facilities and Grounds

Department has ranked number one amongst our peers

when we are evaluated by Gordian, a national organization

who over 16,000 other organizations use to evaluate the

condition of their facilities,” Sewell says.

Serving a campus of over 40,000 students is

no easy feat. There are not many days where Alabama’s

campus is not bustling with students going to class,

visitors taking tours or the daily hustle and bustle that

is Tuscaloosa. Sewell and his team want to ensure that

the campus looks picture perfect without onlookers ever

knowing it once looked otherwise.

“We have some exceptionally skilled employees

that get to utilize their skills to either professionally

maintain or create custom spaces that are truly unique

in workmanship. Sometimes we are referred to as ‘Little

Ninjas in the Night.’ We want to find and repair issues

before anyone else finds them and has to wait on us to

make the repair,” Sewell says. “Our team takes pride

alice.ua.edu 39

Students’ experiences would not be the same

without all the people who work behind-the-scenes.

Though UA is known for its amazing accomplishments

on the field and in the classroom, none of them would be

possible without those who make sure the field is wellmaintained

or the halls are clear for the morning class

rush.

The next time you see a grounds worker cleaning

up the quad, tell them how lovely it looks. If you see a

custodial worker in the bathroom on your way to class,

give them a smile. When you get your next lunch at the

dining hall, say thank you for the hot meal. A little bit of

gratitude can go a long way, especially for those who make

our lives in college a little easier every day.

and ownership in their work, and they strive to do

everything they can to provide the best experience on

campus for the students, faculty and staff.”

Throughout his 12 years serving the

University, Sewell has more than just work experience

under his belt. He shares cherished memories that

would not be the same without that Alabama spirit

ingrained in them.

“My favorite memory at UA happened while

tailgating before the Alabama versus Tennessee football

game on October 26, 2013. We had a paid parking spot at

a church on Bryant Drive, and we usually set up a tailgate

close by. I thought it would be the best place to catch

my wife off guard, since it was a normal thing for us to

tailgate before home football games,” Sewell says. “After

she got back from shopping with some street vendors, she

pulled out a ‘Beat Tennessee’ button for me to wear, and I

dropped down on one knee and proposed in front of our

friends and family. Immediately afterwards, some friends

had arranged for us to be driven all around campus on a

golf cart displaying a sign they made that said ‘He put a

ring on it’.”

40

"

The one thing that the students

may not realize is the dedication

and pride that the grounds crew

take in their job... If the students

are going to become legendary,

then they need to walk on

legendary grounds.

— Kim Byram

"

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Fighting to be

First Generation

Being a first-generation college student presents

unique hardships and obstacles. Almost any

college attendee will say completing a university

education can be one of the most rigorous commitments

one could take on. Despite high schools spending years

preparing students for post-secondary study, it is still

easy to underestimate how stressful the transition to

college can be.

While adapting to academic life, students must

also balance their course load with the new demands and

responsibilities of adulthood. Many students rely on the

guidance and support of college-educated parents and

grandparents who have undertaken the same challenge

years before.

“College was just something I always knew my

parents were helping me work towards,” says Bryce Troia,

an alumnus of The University of Alabama and thirdgeneration

college student.

While this may seem familiar to many, firstgeneration

students can agree not everyone experienced

this growing up.

First-generation college students do not often

By Emily Jean Morgan

get access to this wellspring of wisdom and guidance

many of their peers with college-educated family

members might take for granted. The college curriculum

is difficult enough, but many first-generation students

face a “double burden” of supporting themselves with

employment that eats into necessary study hours.

KarMiya Little is a first-generation student

majoring in management information systems at UA.

She is currently working to put herself through school.

“I have worked part-time jobs the entire time I

have been in college to cover things like school fees, my

phone bill and car insurance, but I am lucky that I have

never had to choose between the grades I’m capable of

or paying bills thanks to living at home in Tuscaloosa,”

Little says.

First-generation students often start at a clear

disadvantage compared to other students, even months

or years before setting foot on campus. Parents of firstgeneration

students might place less emphasis on the

importance of getting an education, or they could be

entirely unfamiliar with the process. They might have

fewer opportunities to prepare their children for college,

42

unfortunately leaving their children struggling.

“I think the most challenging part for me was

not knowing what was expected of me,” Little says. “My

goals have adjusted from originally just wanting a job

that pays more than struggling wages to now being on a

path to have a successful career.”

Sometimes first-generation students struggle

with imposter syndrome, doubting themselves because

of their disadvantages despite having come so far.

“It also does not always feel real, getting to be in

certain rooms or at college in general; higher education is

a much different environment than the one I grew up in,”

Little says.

To show how starkly different being a firstgeneration

college student is, it is important to

understand the privilege second or third-generation

students have.

“With even my grandma having gone to college,

I always just knew I would do the same,” Troia says. “I’m

lucky to have parents who made sure my siblings and

I had all the resources we needed to not only succeed

but excel. The only decision I had to make was simply a

matter of which college I wanted to attend.”

First-generation students understand some of

these harsh realities all too well, but even if they have

some setbacks, many colleges and universities have

initiatives and programs that can help them succeed.

Nate Owens is the program director of Legacy

Scholars at UA, a program designed for first-generation

students to build connections on campus. Legacy

Scholars hosts practical, weekly workshops to help firstgeneration

students navigate the transition to college,

manage finances, professional development and more.

“Try your best to enjoy this process, and allow

yourself to explore all the available possibilities,” Owens

says.

First-generation students should be proud

and confident in their fight for higher education.

Being the first in your family to go to college can be

an overwhelming whirlwind of an experience, but the

courage, strength and, of course, education gained is well

worth it.

alice.ua.edu 43

Ring By

Spring

By Raven Johnson

Hitting various milestones in life represents the

culmination of hard work paying off. Whether

it is graduating college, buying a house or

starting a family, there are certain benchmarks set by

society that people feel the need to achieve. There is

a certain cultural pressure to achieve these goals at a

specific age, even if everyone does not have the same

situation or timeline. Collegiate culture has shaped

some people into believing getting engaged by spring in

the final year of college is ideal. This tradition prevails

strongly in the Bible Belt region, where marriage is

more culturally emphasized.

The idea behind “ring by spring” culture is

that students should find their life partner during their

college years and be engaged by the time spring of

their senior year rolls around. This stems from societal

expectations perpetuating the belief college is the best

time to meet a potential spouse. For some, it can be

influenced by family members or cultural norms

prioritizing getting married at a young age.

“Do I think some people rush into it?

Definitely. There’s this pressure, whether it’s from social

media, friends, or just personal expectations, to have

that college love story,” says Deion Mulbury, a senior at

The University of Louisiana at Monroe.

Ring by spring is typically romanticized

despite it pertaining to something potentially stressful.

Some college students may not be ready to commit

seriously to another person, especially for those who

have yet to find the right person. It is vital to recognize

that everyone’s journey is different, and the timing

of important life events, such as engagement and

marriage, should be based on personal readiness rather

than societal pressure.

The idea of getting engaged before graduating

can have a huge impact on one’s college relationships. It

can lead to rushed decisions revolving around a ticking

clock. The pace of the relationship could move rapidly,

forcing feelings and pushing to make the relationship

more of a serious commitment, despite what might be

best for both parties.

“Honestly, I think a lot of people in college

crave relationships because it’s such a transitional time.

You’re figuring out who you are, what you want in

life and where you belong,” says Romeo Richardson,

a junior at The University of Alabama studying

psychology.

This phenomenon affects the typical college

life of trial and error dating that most people say is the

true “college experience.” Being in a relationship is not

the problem; it is the desire for an immediate title that

can cause frustration, rushed feelings and anxiety.

“Having someone by your side can make all

that feel a little less overwhelming,” Romeo Richardson

says. “I’ve seen friends get into relationships because

they want stability, while others just don’t want to feel

alone in a new environment.”

Loneliness can encourage some people to

rush into a relationship, even before they are ready

for serious commitment. Rushing in simply to avoid

loneliness is not a healthy relationship habit to practice.

A house is only as strong as its foundation, and a

healthy relationship cannot stand on a foundation that

was hastily built.

Childhood issues can often influence the

way people approach relationships and marriage. Past

childhood experiences, whether they are related to

attachment, family dynamics, emotional needs or even

unresolved trauma, often shape how someone views

themselves and others in the context of intimacy.

“Because everyone’s craving something they

didn’t get in their homes or childhood, there’s a lot

rooted in why we desire a relationship in college,” says

DQ Richardson, a graduate student at The University

of Alabama.

The idea of finding the love of your life while

in college and getting engaged soon after is more

prevalent among people whose families who have

44

a strong sense of religion, compared to those who do

not. According to a study from Sojourners, the top 25

colleges where men and women meet their spouse are

all Christian institutions.

Although it is a large milestone in most people’s

lives, marriage is not for everyone. It is not the be all,

end all modern society frames marriage to be. Ring by

spring culture alienates those who do not fall into this

set timeline or value system.

Rushing into commitment as serious as

engagement or marriage does not fit with everyone’s

personal goals and values. Whether focused on career,

education, or everything else life brings, consider selfgrowth

before committing to a lifetime of growing with

someone else.

“It all depends on whether they’re actually

ready for a relationship or just looking for a security

blanket,” Mulbury says.

Some might not believe they need a romantic

relationship to feel fulfilled or successful. That does not

mean people do not want relationships at all, but they

might be on a different timeline than the one society

expects of them.

Romantic relationships leading to marriage are

not the only way to feel fulfilled or successful. The idea

of love is constantly evolving, and in the 21st century,

there are many ways to find love throughout life. People

should feel empowered to approach marriage in their

own time and in ways that make sense for them.

Design by Shannon Hahn

alice.ua.edu 45

46

alice.ua.edu 47



Modeled by Emilia Oblites, Shelby Brightwell and Jazlyn Aronhalt

48



Modeled by Emilia Oblites, Shelby Brightwell and Jazlyn Aronhalt

alice.ua.edu 49

Photo by Hannah Grace Mayfield

Modeled by Clara Kee

50

Why Not Today?

Make Every Day a Special Occasion

52

Rewriting the Script

Putting Yourself First in Love &

Friendships

We Need to Talk About it

How Pornography Is Shaping Our Minds,

Relationships and Body Image


The Best Movies to Help Your Brain

De-Stress

Sitcom Soulmates Quiz

Which is Your Perfect Match?

54

56

60

62

alice.ua.edu 51

Why Not Today?

Make Every Day a Special Occasion

Why are the best things — fancy outfits,

expensive perfumes or even the “good” plates

— so often set aside for an undefined “special

occasion?” Life is unpredictable, and waiting for the right

moment often means missing simple opportunities and

joys waiting to be experienced.

So, why wait? Embracing a “why not?” mindset

can effortlessly make every day a little more special. It is

not about extravagance — it is about finding joy in every

day and letting little luxuries elevate ordinary moments.

The easiest way to embrace this mindset is by

making simple, intentional changes throughout the day.

It’s not about

extravagance — it is

about finding joy in every

day and letting little

luxuries elevate ordinary

moments.

By Sophie Gros

Design by Anna Banks

Start in the morning. Instead of an old hoodie,

make today the day to wear that cute cardigan that has

been collecting dust in the closet. Maybe spritz some

fancy perfume for once instead of saving it for the right

occasion. Let today be the occasion. Just like that, the day

has a little more sparkle, all from asking “why not?”

Next, break routine and try a new coffee spot.

Grab a cold brew on the way to class and maybe grab one

for a friend, too. Sometimes, making someone else’s day

works both ways.

Sara Salazar, a sophomore majoring in public

relations at The University of Alabama, embodies this

mindset daily.

“Something that I like to tell myself is that your

normal day is someone’s biggest dream,” Salazar says.

For Salazar, it is a reminder the moments

taken for granted are moments someone else would give

anything to experience.

“It really changes how you see the little things,”

Salazar says.

As the day goes on, it is clear these little things

make the biggest difference. Instead of rushing home, why

52

not take a moment to do something just for fun? Go on a

walk, grab a sweet treat or pick up a bouquet just because.

Little detours like these can easily brighten the day.

Ella Lester, a sophomore majoring in marketing

at UA, swears by the power of small indulgences.

“I love getting my nails done! It makes me feel

more put together throughout the week, even if the rest

of my life feels like a mess,” Lester says.

Go on a walk, grab a

sweet treat or pick up

a bouquet just because.

Little detours like

these can easily

brighten the day.

By the evening, there is still time to end the day

on a high note. A quick dinner with friends can brighten

any mood. From there, even heading home does not have

to mean the end of this simple, yet wonderful, day. Unwind

by lighting a fresh candle or using a long-forgotten face

mask. Set the mood by taking an extra few seconds to

queue up some good music — even a skincare routine can

be elevated when paired with a favorite playlist.

Once it is time to go to sleep, it is easy to see

how these small, intentional moments can add up to a

wonderful day.

Experts agree small acts of self-care can have

a significant impact on mental health. Dr. Greg Vander

Wal, executive director of The University of Alabama

Counseling Center, compares self-care to a “pressure

release valve.”

“The demands of daily life can quickly build,

and without moments of relaxation or intentional breaks,

that pressure can overwhelm us. Integrating small acts of

care into our routines helps us to relieve that tension and

maintain our well-being,” Vander Wal says.

Vander Wal’s idea aligns perfectly with the “why

not?” mindset. Life happens now, not later. With a simple

change in attitude, ordinary moments can be transformed

into joyful, meaningful experiences.

Life happens now, not

later. With a simple

change in attitude,

ordinary moments can

be transformed into

joyful, meaningful

experiences.

alice.ua.edu 53

Rewriting the script:

Putting Yourself First

In Love and

Legally Blonde,” “The Devil Wears Prada,” “The

Holiday” and “Sex and the City” all share a

common thread: they feature powerful women

who are confident and unafraid to express their needs

and desires. It is inspiring to see such confidence on

screen as these characters navigate their relationships,

so why is it often so challenging to manifest that same

courage in real life?

Society frequently sends the message that

asking for more — whether it is love, respect or effort

— is unreasonable. However, settling for less leads to a

life that falls short of what one truly deserves. In both

romantic and platonic relationships, standards should

reflect the value each person brings to the table. Many

accept a secondary role instead of being prioritized; it is

like settling for a paper plate instead of fine china.

It is time to change this mindset. Prioritizing

self-worth and demanding more is not selfish, it is

essential. Energy and effort should not be freely given to

“

those who do not reciprocate or appreciate it. Let these

Friendship

By Kinsley Palmer

tips serve as inspiration to prioritize personal well-being

and fully embrace the role of the main character in life’s

romantic comedy.

Before “pressing play” on this new journey in

relationships, there must be a few personal foundations

laid. First things first: knowing one’s worth. This is

the ultimate power move, and it is non-negotiable in

both friendships and relationships. When one truly

understands the art of personal value, it puts a stop to

settling for situations that feel one-sided and a start to

building connections rooted in respect and ease. It is

about creating a life where relationships become a source

of comfort, not compromise.

“If I can’t have confidence within myself first,

I can’t have confidence within my partner. It starts

internally,” says Aneela Hawk, a senior majoring in

psychology at The University of Alabama.

So, where to start? Begin by prioritizing selfcare

and learning to be okay with what is being brought

to the table. Journaling and speaking daily affirmations

are simple ways to document personal victories and

emphasize who one is and who one wants to become.

“At the end of the day, I cannot create healthy

friendships or relationships if I’m not healthy myself; that

includes mental and physical health,” Hawk says.

So, do some skincare, try a Pilates class, create

a vision board or go shopping. When one is in tune with

what makes them happy, they can keep their sense of self

intact, rather than getting lost in someone else’s world.

If I can’t have confidence within myself first, I can’t have

confidence within my partner. It starts internally,

— Aneela Hawk

“

54

“

I have friendships, but I also have personal time, and when you

lead a relationship with that, it starts on a note of balance.

— Callie Palmer

“

Learn to fill up your own cup before pouring

into someone else’s. In other words, if one neglects their

own needs, it is impossible to effectively give to friends,

family and significant others. Take Cady Heron from the

movie “Mean Girls” as an example. She starts by wanting

to make friends and fit in at school, but she ends up

completely losing herself in the process. Cady changes

her personality, neglects her academic interests and

damages relationships with her true friends to maintain

social status in the popular crowd. The main lesson is that

sacrificing authenticity and well-being for friendships

and romantic relationships can backfire, highlighting an

important lesson about self-respect and balance.

Callie Palmer, a senior majoring in operations

management and marketing at UA, puts herself in the

opposite perspective.

“If I’m expecting someone to fill all these cups

for me and be there in every aspect of my life, then the

best thing I can do for myself is pursue things on my own

and make time for things I’m passionate about,” Palmer

says.

Creating aspirations and goals is essential for a

relationship and life balance because it serves to create

confidence and validation internally, rather than relying

solely on others to boost self-esteem.

“I have friendships, but I also have personal

time, and when you lead a relationship with that, it starts

on a note of balance,” Palmer says.

Do not feel guilty about pursuing personal goals

— it is more beneficial to relationships than one might

think.

Setting boundaries is the most essential part

of a healthy relationship or friendship. Everything else

— knowing one’s worth, pursuing personal goals and

practicing self-care — lays the foundation for setting and

maintaining healthy boundaries. Without them, it is easy

to lose balance in friendships and relationships and start

sacrificing personal needs to meet others’ expectations.

Katie Grayson, a clinical instructor of

management at UA, has boundary setting down to an art.

“First, take an inventory of the relationships you

have now. If your gut tells you that something is off, or you

are actively miserable when you are around this person,

that is telling you something that shouldn’t be ignored,”

Grayson says.

If no lines are drawn to cross, how does one know

where to set the boundaries? In other words, without clear

lines, everything remains open-ended, leaving room for

people to push limits, intentionally or not.

“You must put it in very clear, straightforward

terms. You can’t just say, ‘Well, if you feel like respecting

me,’ you’re not going to physically stop them from

crossing a boundary. You are going to control yourself in

that situation, and that’s what an appropriate boundary

is,” Grayson says.

In the end, it all comes back to what remains

within, regardless of relationship status. Just like Elle

Woods, Andy Sachs, Iris Simpkins or Carrie Bradshaw,

embracing confidence and setting standards is not about

becoming an “ideal” version of oneself for a relationship,

it is about making space for those who truly deserve to

be there. The most admired characters do not settle, and

self-worth, firm boundaries and personal priorities are

not just acts of self-care — they are a love letter to the

future self.

phanu/stock.adobe.com

Design by Miho Kimura

alice.ua.edu 55

How pornography is

shaping our minds,

relationships and

body image.

By Caroline Karrh

56

P-O-R-N. Four letters that everyone—and no one—

seems to be talking about. This taboo tableau is

more prevalent and widespread than ever before,

but as a culture, we still seem to be scared of talking

about it.

In America, over 40% of women

and almost 70% of men have viewed

pornography. These numbers seem to be

increasing each year, with pornography

becoming easily accessible due to the

internet and social media. It is reported

that Pornhub, one of the largest websites

for pornography, was visited more during

can lead to a whole host of problems, not the least of

these being women feeling ashamed of their bodies, their

preferences and sex in general.

One of biggest dangers to sexual health for young

women is shame. If we fail to talk about

women’s sexual health, we are failing

women, so it is time to be honest.

It is important that you

understand that if you watch, or

have watched pornography in the

past, there is nothing wrong with you,

and guilt and shame are not productive

emotions to feel surrounding this topic.

So, why are we not talking about it?

one month in 2023 than Instagram,

Pinterest, Netflix and TikTok —

combined.

So, why are we not

talking about it?

The first thing

worth noting about having a

conversation regarding porn is

that it is often a topic surrounded

by a lot of shame, especially for

women. Women, historically, are

discouraged from talking about sex

and pleasure, because it is seen as

“unladylike” or “not feminine.” This,

as we have seen time and time again,

Statistics show that you

are not alone, not even

close to it.

The question is not

“Are young women

watching porn?” It is

“Should they be?”

More and more,

experts think the answer

is no. Studies have shown

pornography is pervasive

and can be extremely addictive

and harmful.

Dana McDonald is a marriage

and family therapist based in

alice.ua.edu 57

The question is not “are young women watching porn?”;

it is “should they be?”

Tuscaloosa, Alabama. She says she has seen firsthand the

damage pornography has done to both men and women

alike.

“[Pornography] is highly addictive,” McDonald

says. “We don’t like to throw around sex addiction, but I

think it’s important to know that it is addictive from the

standpoint of your tolerance increases, and so it takes a

little something extra or different to raise the standard.”

McDonald says pornography consumption

releases high levels of dopamine in the brain, creating a

natural high that the body comes to crave. Just like any

addictive substance, it is possible to build a tolerance so

more and more is required for the same level of pleasure.

This, McDonald says, is where a lot of the

problems associated with porn are seen. It can be a

slippery slope and lead to risky behavior that is dangerous

to the self or others.

Pornography can be particularly harmful to

women, McDonald says, when it comes to body image.

The porn industry is one that profits heavily off women

yet historically has done so much damage to their

community.

Research has shown that women who consume

pornography report lower body image than those who

do not. Self-esteem issues are rampant among women

of this generation, and this is certainly not helped by the

harmful body images and stereotypes perpetuated by the

mainstream porn industry.

Across The University of Alabama’s campus,

many women seem to agree.

“I think [porn] is inherently violent and

dehumanizing towards everyone, especially women. The

most searched genres in the U.S. were nationalities, which

is deeply disturbing to me,” says Bailey Jones, a senior

education major at UA.

Jones believes her experience with men has

been influenced by their consumption of pornography

or graphic content in the way of Instagram or OnlyFans

models.

“Men are no longer ashamed to be explicit and

sexual upfront. It’s almost as though they are proud of it,”

Jones says.

This is a common problem for men watching

pornography, McDonald confirms, and it is becoming an

issue of safety for the women they are engaging with.

Pornography reduces the empathy watchers feel

for their partners. This has led to an increase in sexual

violence against women committed by men who regularly

watch porn.

This, among other things, can lead to a

breakdown in relationships between partners.

Alabama senior communication studies major

Karli Davis says porn has personally impacted her

relationships with men.

“The things women are expected to do in the

bedroom with men who watch porn are always so violent

and degrading,” Davis says. “That is just not how I do

things. It has led me to disappoint partners in the past

who expect something from me that I am not willing to

do.”

Porn usage can cause problems in relationships,

even for the non-watcher. If a partner finds out their

significant other has been watching pornography without

their knowledge, it can cause a breach of trust that can be

extremely hard to come back from. On the other hand,

if one party in the relationship watches pornography and

the other person knows about it, this knowledge can cause

them to feel inadequate, insecure and unable to please

their partner.

“I know women who feel like they are not good

enough for their partners because of the porn they watch

and the type of women they are watching,” Davis says.

“It sets up standards that no one should be expected to

uphold.”

Pornography is a wolf in sheep’s clothing. It

has been sold to this generation of women as a tool for

empowerment, but in reality, it is a product of the same

system built on the sexual exploitation of women that we

58

have been trying to escape for years.

What can be done? Porn is so widespread

and mainstream that it seems inescapable. But don’t

buy the lie. Porn, as we know it today, is not the sexual

empowerment women have been told that it is. It is not

the empowerment we need.

We need to create our own sexual empowerment,

made from a real understanding of what it means to be

empowered. To be empowered is to take back the power.

When we glorify porn and the sex presented to us in that

way, we give the power back to the people and systems

Pornography is a wolf in sheep’s

clothing. It has been sold to this

generation of women as a tool for

empowerment, but in reality, it is a

product of the same system built on the

sexual exploitation of women that we

have been trying to escape for years.

that have always tried to take it from us.

It is empowering to choose sexual health. It

is empowering to build healthy sexual relationships

and choose a partner who will treat you kindly. It is

empowering to speak up about pornography and be

honest about the harm it is causing to relationships, to our

sense of self and to women as a whole.

alice.ua.edu 59


The Best Movies

To Help Your Brain

The smell of butter and hint of salt fills the air,

blankets are spread all around the couch and

the TV is set to the perfect volume, creating the

mood that comfort movie watchers dream to have. No

matter if a partner called it quits or it is one of those days

where nothing goes right, the films that one loves can

always be there to cheer them up. With the advancement

of streaming platforms, discovering new comfort movies

is an opportunity that is always right around the corner.

So, pop the popcorn, put on some comfy clothes and get

ready for a deep dive into comfort movie culture across

the rom-com, action and sci-fi genres.

From “Legally Blonde” to “How to Lose a Guy

in 10 Days,” rom-coms have been a staple of lives and

the film industry since the 90s. A classic go-to movie of

this genre is “Pretty Woman,” which follows the story of

a prostitute and a wealthy businessman falling in love; but

do not be deceived by the basics. The line about working

on commission will have watchers spilling their popcorn

laughing.

Another classic rom-com is “Mean Girls,” where

the new girl at school gets roped into the world of queen

bee Regina George.

One thing these movies have in common, besides

being amazing love stories, is they all involve some form

De-Stress

By Ella Patreece Lybarger

of a makeover. A new look, or even just refreshing the

same style, is a wonderful way to practice self-care. Be

like Elle Woods and go to the nail salon or even go all

out with a new wardrobe like Vivian Ward. Enjoying a

classic rom-com might be the break needed to regroup

and inspire a new look.

“I love the movie ‘10 Things I Hate About You’,”

says Megan Torok, a junior at The University of Alabama

majoring in public relations. “It is a movie that follows a

very independent women who melts the heart of the bad

boy, and you can’t get any more classic than that.”

Many girls’ first celebrity crushes usually

come from the action movie genre. From “Top Gun” to

“Gladiator,” these movies are not only entertaining, but

the main characters are typically easy on the eyes. Action

movies are a great choice for shutting off the brain and

focusing on a fast-paced story, especially for Darcy Stover,

a senior at UA majoring in criminal justice.

“I have to pay attention to the plot of the story

so that I don’t get lost, no matter how many times I have

watched the movie,” Stover says. “Focusing on this allows

60

all the negatives of my day to vanish for a short time, and

that is what makes action movies appealing to me.”

Some great recommendations for this genre

include “Bad Boys” which follows two Miami cops as they

solve crimes and uncover the real bad boys, and “Zero,

Dark, Thirty” which follows a CIA operative on a mission

with Seal Team Six.

In many action movies across the genre the main

character will sacrifice themselves for the betterment of

others and, while heroic for a movie end, this is not healthy

to do in real life. A major part of self-care is learning to

avoid this and realizing, in the words of RuPaul, “You

can’t love anyone else if you can’t love yourself.”

“I feel like every girl out there can agree that

Glen Powell is the obvious choice for celebrity crush, just

ask all the TikTok and Instagram thirst trap videos from

‘Twisters’,” Stover says.

No matter what movie a celebrity crush is in,

these action recommendations are guaranteed to have

watchers hanging off the edge of their seat.

Some comfort movies are out of this world, in

more ways than one. The sci-fi genre is a great escape

from earthly realities all together. Films such as “The

Terminator” and “Back to the Future” are prime examples

of how sci-fi movies are a great way to explore a whole

new world and completely transport the watcher to

somewhere else. One of the most famous sci-fi movie

series of all-time takes place a long time ago in a galaxy

far, far away.

The “Star Wars” franchise follows the Skywalker

family as they navigate through an uncertain galaxy filled

with good versus evil. Many times, when the brain is

overthinking, an escape from reality can be the perfect

solution. It is a crucial part of self-care to have a positive

and productive headspace, and sci-fi movies are great for

creating an escape allowing the brain space to refocus.

The next time the TV is calling, pick up some

salted popcorn and click over to “Star Wars: A New

Hope” or whatever new world one is dying to explore and

leave earth behind for.

It does not matter what genre is the most

comforting or what movie brings other people the most

enjoyment. From rom-coms, to action, to sci-fi movies,

all of these genres are the perfect mental getaway from

reality.

Modeled by Clara Kee Design by Natalie Adams


alice.ua.edu 61

Sitcom

Soulmates

Which is Your Perfect Match?

By Leslie Klein

Ever been curious of which sitcom friend group

would be the perfect fit for you? Whether it is

stopping by Central Perk for the perfect cup of

coffee or falling in love with the new roommate, there is

a place for everyone in the fictional world of television.

What sounds like the perfect

Friday night?

A. Inviting friends over for a relaxing night in

B. Letting the night flow — whatever happens, happens

C. Meeting the group for drinks at a local bar

D. Hosting a sci-fi trivia night

What is your perfect coffee order?

A. A classic latte

B. Anything, as long as it is hot

C. A caramel macchiato

D. Whatever has the most caffeine

What is the best way to resolve

conflicts between a friend group?

A. A calm discussion, hearing out all sides of the story

B. Passively letting it go until it is unbearable

C. A serious conversation with lighthearted moments

mixed in

D. A logical argument with each point laid out

Which word describes you?

A. Supportive

B. Lively

C. Sentimental

D. Quirky

How do you start your day?

A. A warm cup of coffee with your favorite people

B. A quick breakfast before rushing out the door

C. Whatever you decide to do when you wake up

D. A constant routine to ensure everything is done

efficiently

What is the most important part

of friendship?

A. Making each other laugh

B. Always having fun and keeping life exciting

C. Being there for each other

D. Understanding that different personalities make

friendship fun

What is your typical role in your

friend group?

A. The one who keeps the group connected

B. The one who entertains everyone

C. The one always has a new (or old) story to tell

D. The one who brings new perspectives


62

Mostly A’s

Your new “Friends” are making room for you at

Central Perk! You are full of jokes and love to keep people

laughing with your infectious personality. Not a day goes

by where you do not see a friend because you cannot go

without your people. Your loyalty and sense of reality

allows you to slide right into this iconic group. Enjoy that

coffee, there is plenty to come in your future.

Mostly B’s

The “New Girl” gang is waiting for you! Fun

and entertainment follows wherever you go. You always

find the light side in unpredictable moments through

your impeccable humor. Your energy is high enough

to brighten everyone’s attitudes. You never let a good

moment go without notice, and you do it all with your

friends right by your side.

Mostly C’s

The crew of “How I Met Your Mother” is waiting

at the pub to see you! You are the kind of person who

thrives on inside jokes. Every moment, no matter how

small, becomes a part of a bigger story. Your friendships

are built on deep connections and meaningful moments.

Mostly D’s

“The Big Bang Theory” pals are perfect for you.

With unexpected relationships and intellectual moments,

you are the perfect fit. Whether your group is debating

groundbreaking theories or playing a game of “What

day of the week does Sheldon wear these socks?”, you are

simply happy to be around such a dynamic group of loved

ones.

alice.ua.edu 63


Modeled by Deja Williams

64

It’s Always Been That Phone

A Much Needed Digital Age Detox

66

A Guide to Meeting the Family

Swipe, Tap or Insert

A Credit Card How To

Get Real, Get Smart

Enlightened Sex in Modern Day Culture

...And They Were Roommates

70

72

74

76

alice.ua.edu 65

It’s Always

Been That

Phone:

A much

needed

digital age

detox

By Margaret Ann Browning


Modeled by Kristina Noje, Deja Williams and

Shelby Blackwell

66

Phones are present everywhere, everyday. They

create easily accessible interactions with nearly

every person. They are here to stay, and that is

okay. However, what most know deep down is there is

something abnormal about how society interacts with the

world at its fingertips. Technology was meant to foster

connection, fuel productivity and inspire creativity. Yet,

children and adults alike feel more isolated, depressed and

overwhelmed than ever before. What is this phenomenon,

and how does one proceed?

The truth of the matter is technology has been

able to capitalize on the most valuable currency to date:

attention. Expression on social media only magnifies this

attention driven economy, and quickly thoughts, photos

and lives are morphed into consumable content for

friends, family and sometimes strangers.

Jenny Odell, an American artist and writer,

wrote a book about the interaction between humans and

modern-day social media titled, “How to Do Nothing:

Resisting the Attention Economy.”

“This kind of hyper-accelerated expression on

social media is not exactly helpful,” Odell says. “It’s not a

form of communication driven by reflection and reason,

but rather a reaction driven by fear and anger.”

This hyper communication

and consumption of content

can lead to feelings of doom

and distress.

This hyper communication and consumption

of content can lead to feelings of doom and distress. The

normalized action of “doomscrolling,” also known as

scrolling online and consuming a plethora of negative

news that causes anxiety, is a part of many people’s daily

life. In this practice, one loses control over the currency of

attention.

Caroline Beer, a sophomore at The University of

Alabama, discusses her digital detox and taking control

of her attention. She has never downloaded TikTok and

recently deleted Instagram.

“I notice when I am on Instagram, I just keep

scrolling and I feel bad,” Beer says. “I want to do things

that make me feel good and don’t drain me.”

She emphasizes the importance of reading,

moving her body and connecting with friends in person.

“I read a lot more,” Beer says. “I bake. I love to spend time

with friends. I’m not better than them because I don’t use

social media, but this decision is what is best for me.”

It is not an easy task to reorient the mind

and actions around the nature of technological habits.

Practically and physically, there are tips to help mitigate

the consequences of spending too much time online,

but it takes a shift in values and thought to make lasting

impact. So, where to start?

First, start small. Start the day without looking

at a screen for 15 minutes. Then, try 30 minutes. Build up

a habit that is realistic and sustainable.

Also, think when opening social media apps, is

there a true purpose? Going to check a DM? Searching

for a specific video? If there is no purpose to opening the

app, and it is just a force of mindless habit, it is probably

best to put the phone down and intentionally think about

what is truly needed in that moment.

alice.ua.edu 67

Second, be okay with boredom. Boredom is the

key to creativity. When boredom truly sinks in, the mind

is able to wander, create and think deeply. This is such

a gift of life, and it would do everyone some good to be

bored a little more often.

Third, delete the apps. It is a bold, scary move,

but it can be done. Try it out for a week, or even just a day.

See how the brain adjusts to one day without social media

and go from there.

What is the point of all these new habits? Why

change the cultural mindset surrounding technology?

Well, at its current rate, attention is bought and sold for

far cheaper than it is worth.

Technology is cheapening human experience

and shrinking it down into consumable content bites.

Natalie Browning, a sixth grade English teacher

for over a decade, sees the effects of screens on the younger

generations in her classroom.

“As a middle school teacher, I see the negative

side effects of screen time on my students,” Browning

says. “Not only do their social skills suffer, but their focus

seems incredibly short-lived. I have students who break

into a TikTok dance, with their hands moving under their

desks, and they don’t even realize they’re doing it.”

She emphasizes the impact that short-form

content, specifically, will have on kids and their future in

school.

“When we consider how short most reels and

TikTok videos are, is it any wonder that our students

struggle to stay focused during class?” Browning says.

Don’t be alarmed — this is not a doomsday

warning. The best of social media can still bring people

together in ways beyond in-person communication ever

could.

Amy Joy Richardson, a freshman at UA majoring

in criminal justice, highlights the unique benefits of

finding an online community.

“I found a community on the internet of people

that didn’t exist in my small Southern town,” Richardson

says. “People that are passionate about topics like K-pop

are fun to talk to, and I was only able to find that through

an online community.”

Technology will have effects on people whether

they know it or not and many of them, unfortunately, will

be negative. However, this does not mean abandoning

it altogether. It simply means giving it the attention and

consideration it deserves and changing habits or practices

when enough is enough.

People deserve better than

spending their precious time

doom scrolling.

They deserve the beautiful, enriching community the

world gives, and the experiences that can only be obtained

when putting down the phone and turning to each other.

Modeled by Kristina Noje, Shelby

Brightwell, and Deja Williams

Design by Anna Banks

68

alice.ua.edu 69

A Guide to

Meeting

The family

Modeled by Riley Brown and Hayden Huxford

70

Dos and

Don’ts

By Gabriella Haynes

When entering a new relationship, it is always

nerve-wracking to meet the parents of a

partner. While the first interaction can

feel overwhelming, try to stay positive and maintain

confidence. It is important to impress a significant other’s

family and have their support in the relationship.

“I was really nervous before I met my boyfriend’s

family,” says Mallory Kelly, a sophomore communications

student at The University of Alabama. “I wanted to make

a good impression because his family means a lot to him.”

What to wear is always the hardest part of

getting ready, especially when meeting important people.

A consistent crowd pleaser is leggings and a sweater,

preferably not cropped, and easy to slip off shoes, in

case their family has a “no shoes in the house” rule. It

is essential to be comfortable while looking presentable

at the same time. A sweater is a great alternative to a

sweatshirt, because while it provides the same amount of

comfort, it is typically a little dressier.

Personal hygiene is also important. Make sure

to shower and show up with clean, brushed hair. It is

important to show some effort was put in, and these

steps are simple ways to accomplish this. Do not forget

perfume or body spray. Smelling nice is always a bonus.

While maintaining effort with appearance, it

is even more important to put effort into conversation.

Showing interest in topics at the dinner table shows

respect for their family. Parents will notice when effort is

put in and it is appreciated.

Jennifer Goodman is a mother of two children.

Her son is a junior in college and her daughter is a

sophomore in high school.

“I notice the difference between the girls who go

straight down to the basement and the ones who make

an effort to talk to me and my husband,” Goodman says.

“I have met many girls that my son has brought home.

The ones that stand out are always the girls who make an

effort in conversation, help with dinner or just have nice

manners.”

Make sure to offer cleaning up the dishes or

setting the table if attending dinner at their home. Show

gratitude for what they have cooked and try to eat an

appropriate amount. Do not leave a full plate — moms

always notice. Make sure to use manners and compliment

them on their home and hospitality. Simple acts like

this can stand out compared to others who do the bare

minimum.

It is extremely important to not be glued to

a phone. Some parents take this as a sign of disrespect.

Unless it is used for showing pictures or responding to an

urgent text, try to avoid being on it.

Another thing to stay away from is public displays

of affection in front of a significant other’s parents. This

could make them extremely uncomfortable, especially

when meeting for the first time. Keep it to a minimum. A

hand on the shoulder or the back is okay here or there but

limit the smooches.

Every set of parents has a different vibe, and

every meeting is bound to be unique. The most important

part is showing genuine care for your significant other

and their family. If a meeting goes well, it could create a

peaceful and fun in-law relationship for life.

“When I first met my boyfriend’s parents, I was

in eighth grade and my friend dared me to go up to them

at a football game,” says Natalie Cicero, a junior at UA

studying communications. “I had his football number

drawn on my face, and I went and said hi. They still make

fun of me to this day for it.”

Overall, meeting the parents is stressful, but it

can be a fun bonding experience if done correctly. Who

knows, it could even be something to laugh about years

down the road.

Design by Shannon Hahn


alice.ua.edu 71

Swipe, Tap or Insert:

A Credit Card How-To

By Elena Giorgi


72

Credit cards might seem scary or a recipe for

disaster, but they do not have to be daunting or

only used by parents to accumulate airline miles.

Credit cards are nuanced, and each financial institution

offers different types, monthly limits, rewards and interest

rates, but the girl math version of a credit card is simple.

Finding the right institution, and, more

particularly, the right credit card for one’s needs, is the

first step. Consider qualities like account types, number

and variety of credit cards, fees, payment processes and

customer service that an institution provides. Many

institutions offer different credit cards based on credit

history, how much will be charged to the card and whether

it is a personal or business card.

For college women who are just dipping their

toes in the credit card pool, there are plenty of “student”

card options on the market. These cards have a smaller

credit limit, so they are easier for students to get approved.

Companies know most students do not have a credit

history, so many offer cards that do not require one. Entrylevel

credit cards for college students usually have rewards

that tailor specifically to students, some including travel

rewards, cash back on all purchases and sign-on bonuses.

“I use the Discover ‘it’ Student Cash Back credit

card,” says Emma Santos, a senior at Purdue University

studying environmental engineering. “My parents use

Discover credit cards, so they received a cash back reward

when they referred me for this credit card. I got the card

after I got my first job and started making my own money.”

The Discover ‘it’ Student Cash Back card tops

charts for being the best student card on the market,

according to February 2025 reports by U.S. News &

World Report and Forbes Advisor. The card prides itself

on unlimited cash back for the first year after activating,

fraud liability for unauthorized purchases and 5% cash

back on different purchases each quarter.

“I have cash back that I am letting grow in my

account right now so that I can use it for a fun purchase,”

Santos says. “For January through March, the 5% cash back

reward is on purchases at restaurants, home improvement

stores and select streaming services. Starting in April,

there will be a new cycle of rewards.”

Capital One and Bank of America also offer

credit cards aimed at students, with low credit limits and

rewards specific for students. While they often do not

offer as many perks and cash back opportunities, local

banks and credit unions also offer credit cards through

an outsourced vendor that have few barriers for approval.

Retail credit cards for stores, such as T.J. Maxx and Barnes

and Noble, are another option of card that is generally

easier to be approved for and offer points that can be used

like cash in their store.

“I have a credit card through a local credit union

in Illinois called Community Credit Union that I got

during my junior year of high school,” says Shelby Rose, a

student at The University of Alabama majoring in public

relations and political science. “My mom recommended

that I get one so that I could learn how to handle my

money, and once I graduate college, I intend to switch to a

retail card that has more reward opportunities.”

The golden rule of being a smart credit card

holder is paying the bill on time and in full. At the end of

each financial month, the institution releases a statement

that outlines the minimum amount that must be paid and

when it must be paid by. Failing to pay your bill on time

leads to high interest rates on the money owed and can be

the beginning of an accumulation of credit card debt. This

is also harmful to a credit score.

Credit card debt is the college girl equivalent of

having to ask your parents for money to pay your bar tab

at the end of a night out: miserable.

“You have to be disciplined with a credit card;

that is the number one rule,” says Jill Slaton, a senior

credit underwriter at Bryant Bank. “Use the card to make

minor, small purchases that you don’t really need to be

using a credit card for, but you’re just doing it to build

credit and learn the discipline of paying it off at the end of

the month.”

It is not always easy to be approved for a credit

card, however, and in these situations, parents or trusted

adults can co-sign a credit card or list someone as an

authorized user on their credit card. Using a credit card

is not the only way to establish credit, so if a credit card

is too great of a responsibility, credit can be earned by

paying back a car or a CD loan.

Slaton advises against two activities that can

detrimentally hurt a credit score: applying for too many

credit cards and spending 35% or more of your limit.

“Do your research and apply for one card and

not a whole bunch because those inquiries will hurt your

credit score,” Slaton says. “Spending more than 35% of

your limit on a credit card can negatively impact your

credit score. The credit bureaus push this rule fairly hard.”

Having and using a credit card is not rocket

science, but it requires some attention to detail and an

ability to refrain from purchasing everything on the

Spring collection from Reformation. So, get online, find

the perfect credit card and build a positive credit history!

alice.ua.edu 73

Get Real,

Get Smart

Enlightened Sex in Modern Day Culture

By Gabrielle Gunter


74

“

Sex can serve as a way of emotional connection

because it is ultimately vulnerable.

Typical sex advice covers the physical aspects of sex

such as consent, sexual health, pleasure and forms

of birth control, but what about the emotional

side of sex? It is not often young people are given a guide

on how to navigate the complex emotions surrounding

sexual encounters. How does one create boundaries with

partners, and what is the importance of aftercare?

Sex is not just about physical vulnerability;

it is also about emotional vulnerability, which is

communicated through the ways in which one’s partner

sees them.

“Sex can serve as a way of emotional connection

because it is ultimately vulnerable,” says Andy Coleman,

a sophomore studying computer engineering at The

University of Alabama. “You’re baring yourself to someone

not only in a physical sense but also in a way that they will

understand your desires and see you in a state of pleasure,

which I think is very vulnerable.”

Since sex can be incredibly vulnerable, it is

important to establish boundaries with sexual partners,

as boundaries add a layer of protection against potential

emotional pain or discomfort. One should never be

scared to set clear boundaries during sex, and it is

healthy to remember that boundaries can and will change

throughout a relationship. Changing one’s mind or

opinion at any point is completely fine, as long as that is

communicated clearly.

“Being able to say ‘No, I didn’t like that’ to

someone is a very important part of sex because it

establishes your ability to set boundaries and enhances the

strength and trust of the relationship overall,” Coleman

says.

In addition to being a place to discover

boundaries, sex is also an opportunity to learn more

about one’s own body and preferences.

“Incorporating fantasies and kink into sexual

situations can absolutely help you get more in tune with

your body and sexual preferences. Kink exposes you

to new experiences when you’re in a fairly vulnerable

position, which can give you new insights into your

own psyche,” says Mars Williams, a sophomore studying

psychology at UA.

Just like with boundaries, preferences need to be

clearly communicated as well. Enthusiastic consent from

both parties is the most important part of sex.

What happens after the act, however? After such

intense emotions and vulnerability, aftercare is essential.

Aftercare is simply the act of taking care of oneself and

one’s partner after sex. It can manifest in several ways such

as cuddling or showering together.

“There can be a lot of intense emotions involved

with sex, and aftercare helps with emotional regulation

and ensures that your emotional needs are met after

sex,” says Maggie Jutze, the president of UA’s Planned

Parenthood Generation Action. “Also, it can help build

emotional intimacy and make you feel more safe and

secure.”

It is also extremely important to know that

not everyone follows the same timeline when it comes

to having sex — every person is unique in their sexual

journeys.

“I think part of having smart sex is knowing

when you want to do it and when you feel comfortable. Not

everyone does it at the same time,” says Burke Codemo,

a master’s student studying information sciences at The

University of Tennessee Knoxville.

All of this is to say: sex is just not a physical

experience; it is also an emotional one in which it is

incredibly important to take care of oneself. Sex allows

people to make personal discoveries about themselves.

Sex should be something that is not only physical fulfilling

but emotionally fulfilling as well.

I think part of having sex is knowing when you

“want to do it and when you feel comfortable.

“

“

alice.ua.edu 75

... And They

Were

Roommates

By Alexandra Hayden


76

“

Communication

Navigating college roommates can be tough. From

horror stories of the “freshman year roommate”

to tales of friendships that will last a lifetime,

it is clear the experience can vary significantly. The real

question, though, is how to navigate confrontations and

live in peace.

The first line of defense for on-campus

roommate drama is the resident advisor, or RA, a trained

upperclassmen student who acts like the parent of a

dormitory floor. RAs are unbiased third parties that can

assist in solving any roommate issues when living on

campus. Whether it is setting up a mediation or giving

advice, they are willing to assist all residents in whatever

their troubles may be.

There are many RAs across The University of

Alabama’s dormitories that possess extensive experience

in navigating roommate dynamics. Their firsthand

knowledge offers valuable insight as to what makes a

successful roommate pairing.

“Creating a roommate agreement is the best first

step to take,” says Amelia Diaz, an RA at UA’s Ridgecrest

South.

Having a document outlining what is considered

acceptable and unacceptable can assist roommates in

many ways. It allows for the needs of all individuals to be

recognized and makes any conflicts more evident when

the situation defies the agreement.

Cleanliness, for example, is a common issue that

RAs have noticed emerges between roommates.

“Everyone has a different definition of

cleanliness,” says Emily Cohen, an RA at UA’s Ridgecrest

South.

One roommate’s idea of “clean” could be another’s

worst nightmare. Knowing this, a roommate agreement

can be the perfect tool to clearly define the expectations

of all roommates, avoiding conflict over cleanliness.

However, a roommate agreement only works if

both parties hold to it. Once an individual defies what is

set in the roommate agreement, there must be something

said about it.

“Communication is key,” Cohen says. “Texting is

not enough — you must discuss the issue face to face to

clearly convey your tone.”

Having a discussion with a roommate as soon as

an issue occurs can prevent the need for mediation and

the involvement of other parties.

is key.

“

“If you don’t want roommate issues, talk to your

roommate,” says Erica White, an RA at UA’s Burke West.

These conversations may be uncomfortable, but

they are necessary to ensure each person can properly

express their feelings. Avoiding confrontation might keep

peace for a while, but these unspoken tensions have a way

of erupting, creating serious problems in the roommate

relationship.

If the situation goes beyond that of a simple

miscommunication or slight defiance in a roommate

agreement, there are always more steps that can be taken.

White remembers an instance when she was oncall

and was tasked with de-escalating a situation involving

a screaming match and assisting in an emergency room

evacuation.

“If it won’t matter in three days or weeks, then it

isn’t too bad,” Diaz says. “But if it will in three months or

years, that may mean it’s time to move out.”

For freshmen, the experience of moving from

on-campus to off-campus life can be tricky, but have no

fear.

Makenna Folks, a sophomore at UA who lives

in an off-campus apartment, says that an off-campus

apartment is not so different from a dorm.

“An apartment is just more space and your own

bathroom,” Folks says. “Nothing changes when it comes

to having roommates on or off-campus.”

Living with others can be tough,

but there are steps that can be

taken to ensure complications are

avoided. Creating a roommate

agreement, having proper

discussions and contacting an

RA can all lead to a successful

experience when navigating college

roommates.

alice.ua.edu 77

Photo by Gabrielle Lopez

78

Cheers to Balance

Navigating a Healthy Relationship with

Alcohol in College

Contraceptive Detective

A Deep Dive into Birth Control

Navigating Nutrition and Intuitive Eating

in College

From A to Zinc

A Guide to Women’s Supplements

Full Body Wellness and Its Impact

on Longevity

80

82

84

86

88

alice.ua.edu 79

Navigating a Healthy Relationship with

Alcohol in College

By Alexandra Holley


80

College culture is often synonymous with late

nights, loud parties and going shot for shot with

friends until someone embarrasses themselves.

At schools like The University of Alabama, where social

life plays a prominent role, blacking out and excessive

drinking have become normalized. Many students feel

pressured to adopt an “all-or-nothing” mindset — either

staying completely sober or diving headfirst into the party

scene.

However, attitudes toward alcohol consumption

are beginning to shift. With the rise of health and

wellness trends, more students are making mindful

choices. Mocktails and alcohol alternatives are becoming

more common at social gatherings, allowing students to

participate without compromising their health goals.

“You don’t have to choose between

having a good time and staying

healthy,”

says Rachel Patterson, a registered dietitian and

nutrition professor at UA. “It’s all about moderation and

understanding your body’s limits.”

The recommended safe amount of alcohol is no

more than one standard drink per day for women and two

for men. Binge drinking, which the National Institute on

Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism defines as consuming four

or more drinks for women and five or more for men in a

single occasion, can lead to serious short-term and longterm

health effects.

“When you binge drink, your liver struggles to

process the toxins, which can cause damage over time,”

Patterson says. “Not to mention, there’s the immediate

risk of poor decision-making and dehydration.”

For students who want to cut back, navigating

social situations can be challenging. Peer pressure and

societal norms often make it difficult to say no.

Dr. Susan Matthews, a counselor at UA,

encourages students to be thoughtful about their triggers

and set personal boundaries.

“Ask yourself why you’re drinking in the first

place,” Matthews says. “If it’s just to fit in or deal with

stress, it might be time to reassess your relationship with

alcohol. Remember, it’s okay to say no, and true friends

will respect your choices.”

Kat Edwards, a senior fashion major at UA,

shares her strategy for a successful night out that does not

leave her in bed for the entire next day.

“I started setting limits for myself, like having

just one drink per hour or having water in between every

drink. It helps me stay in control and still have fun,”

Edwards says.

Efforts like Capstone Agency’s “Less Than U

Think” (LTUT) campaign have taken a stand against binge

drinking by highlighting the consequences of going too

hard with a clever series of posts, flyers and merchandise.

Phrases such as, “U think you won’t send that risky text.

And you wouldn’t. Three drinks ago,” encourage students

to be mindful of their behaviors and think before blacking

out and embarrassing themselves.

“Working on the LTUT campaign showed me

that most college students actually don’t engage in binge

drinking,” says Avery Tucker, a senior public relations

major at UA and former LTUT account executive. “The

danger comes when they don’t know their limits or forget

to count their drinks. By helping to spread awareness

about moderation around alcohol consumption, we are

showing students they can have fun while being smart.”

With this new way of thinking and a rise in

trending anti-binge drinking campaigns, many Alabama

students are now practicing mindfulness around their

alcohol consumption.

“I realized I didn’t always have to go all in at

every social event,” Edwards says. “I can still go out with

my friends, enjoy a couple of drinks and have a great time

without blacking out.”

Just because there is a culture surrounding

college years being filled with heavy drinking and

debilitating hangovers, drinking does not have to define

a college experience. Having a healthy relationship with

alcohol is the key to a balanced college life!

Vector image by stock.adobe.com/Bunpaengart

“Ask yourself why you’re drinking in the first place,”

Matthews says. “If it’s just to fit in or deal with stress, it

might be time to reassess your relationship with alcohol.

Remember, it’s okay to say no, and true friends will respect

your choices.”

alice.ua.edu 81

Contraceptive

Detective:

A Deep Dive into

Birth Control

By Catherine O’Halloran


Photos by Gabriella Lopez

82

Female birth control is complex, layered and often

misunderstood. More than just a means for

pregnancy prevention, birth control can address

acne, regulate menstrual cycles and reduce the risk of

depression and anxiety.

There is no such thing as the perfect birth

control. Each person approaches birth control with

a unique need and experience that shapes what they

need. Some use birth control for convenience, others for

medical reasons. Healthcare access, finances and comfort

level can also influence a person’s need and preference.

About 46.9 million American women reported

using birth control, according to the Centers for Disease

Control and Prevention (CDC). When choosing a method

of birth control, factors such as age, sexual activity,

personal beliefs and prevention accuracy all come into

play.

Birth control comes in many shapes and sizes.

The two most popular methods, hormonal and barrier,

have differing purposes and pros and cons to each.

Hormonal methods prevent ovulation and

change the body to prevent pregnancy, while barrier

methods block the sperm from making its way into the

uterus.

Hormonal options like the intrauterine device

(IUD) or the arm implant, Nexplanon, offer long-term

protection with success rates of up to 99% for preventing

pregnancy. These methods can each be reversed when a

woman is ready for pregnancy. Physical birth control pills

are another popular hormonal option.

Barrier methods, such as condoms, are among

the least effective for pregnancy prevention, but preferred

by many for their convenience and prevention of sexually

transmitted diseases.

According to the CDC, 8.7% of women who

reported using birth control between the ages of 15 to

49 used a condom. While the condom is said to be 98%

effective, the true prevention rate is much lower due to

improper use, damage or expiration.

Despite this, many prefer condoms for their easy

access, lack of physical altercation to the body and fertility

and protection from STIs. By adding a physical barrier to

the outside, there is a hindrance to the ability of sperm to

reach egg for fertilization.

Many women using birth control for the

first time find themselves wary of the potential side

effects associated.

“I got a prescription for Depo-Provera

from my primary care physician to help with my

awful premenstrual syndrome and acne, but I never

went through with the shot,” says Aria Lawrence,

a junior at The University of Alabama studying fashion

retailing and Spanish. “The risks just did not outweigh the

positives.”

Risks including weight gain, depression and

prolonged periods made Lawrence skeptical. While

she wanted something low maintenance that would not

require her to remember to take it daily, the idea of side

effects was too great a burden to bear.

“The risks felt too high, and I wasn’t willing to

gamble with my body,” Lawrence says.

Lucy Grams, a junior majoring in political

science at UA, said she uses birth control as more than a

pregnancy prevention.

“My period is super painful,” Grams says. “I’ve

been on it since senior year of high school, and it’s been

great for me.”

However, a change may be coming. Grams is

considering getting an IUD, and the reasons are twofold.

“First off, I’m not good at remembering to take

my medications every single night, so not having to rely

on that would be very nice,” Grams says. “The second is

that I am growing more and more concerned over the

Trump administration and the potential for contraceptive

bans or attempts to block access to them. We have a long

four years ahead of us, and an IUD would last me that

entire time.”

Dr. Anna White, a practicing OB-GYN at

Ochsner Medical Center in New Orleans, recommends

a LARC, or long-acting reversible contraception, to

her patients considering birth control for pregnancy

prevention.

White recommends preventative action for

college students seeking advice about birth control today.

“We have had an influx of people

wanting to replace their LARCs. There is a bill

in South Carolina right now that will basically

make contraception illegal,” White says.

Ultimately, birth control is not a one

size fits all medication, and it takes some time

and research to discover what is best for each

person individually. While it can be a complex

choice, it is essential to understand available

options and find the right method to fit one’s

needs.

alice.ua.edu 83

Navigating

Nutrition

and Intuitive Eating

in College

By Laurel McLaughlin

Between late-night study sessions, busy class

schedules and social pressures, making the right

food choices can be a challenge for many college

women. Finding a balance between convenience,

nutrition and personal preference is not always easy,

especially with the challenges of dining hall options and

budget constraints. By paying attention to hunger cues

and making mindful food choices, college students can

maintain proper nutrition without relying on restrictive

diets.

Intuitive eating is a mindful approach to food

that encourages individuals to listen to their bodies

hunger and fullness cues rather than following rigid

diets. Unlike traditional dieting, which often involves

restrictions or calorie counting, intuitive eating promotes

balance and self-trust. This approach is about developing

a healthy relationship with food and choosing meals

that feel good, both physically and mentally. For college

women balancing busy schedules, intuitive eating offers

a flexible and sustainable way to stay nourished without

extra stress.

While intuitive eating sounds simple, applying

it in a college setting can present challenges. Kimberly

Leatherman, a fat loss and nutrition coach for FASTer

Way to Fat Loss, explains that one of the biggest challenges

for college women is learning how to make food choices

while adjusting to life on their own.

“Many students aren’t sure

what they should be eating, and

their schedules don’t always

allow for consistent meals,”

Leatherman says. “Good food is more expensive, and fast

food is easier to grab between classes. Even dining hall

options, while marketed as healthy, aren’t always made

with the best ingredients.”

A lack of proper nutrition can lead to negative

effects beyond just feeling hungry. Poor eating habits can

result in difficulty concentrating, lack of energy and even

changes in hair and nail growth, which are all signs that

the body is not getting the nutrients it needs.

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For many college students, external pressures

also play a role. Social media, diet culture and the expectations

of maintaining a certain body image can make it

difficult to eat intuitively.

“It is easy to compare meals, but I’ve learned to

focus on what works for me,” says Kathryn Pope, a senior

secondary education major at The University of Alabama.

“Everyone’s eating

habits are different.”

While challenges exist, there are simple and

effective ways to make smarter food choices in college.

Leatherman suggests that planning ahead is one of the

best strategies to avoid last-minute unhealthy choices.

Having go-to snacks such as fruit, protein bars, granola or

trail mix readily available makes it easier to quickly grab a

nutritious option.

Another key habit is learning what a balanced

plate looks like. Including protein, carbs, fiber and healthy

fats in each meal helps with energy, focus and hormone

balance. Staying hydrated is also essential, as many

Design by

Posey McWaters

students walk around dehydrated without realizing it,

which can impact their concentration and energy levels.

For some students, creating a meal routine has been a

game-changer.

“Meal prepping on Sundays takes the stress

out of eating because it ensures I have healthy, highprotein

meals ready to go,” says Molly Boynton, a junior

hospitality and tourism management major at Belmont

University. “Planning ahead makes balancing college and

classes so much easier.”

Leatherman also emphasizes the importance

of meal timing. While students often eat whenever it is

convenient, the body thrives on routine. Establishing a

schedule and giving the body consistent nourishment

throughout the day can make a significant difference in

how students feel and function.

Eating well in college does not

have to be complicated. It is

about creating a routine that

works for each individual and

learning what foods help them

feel their best.

Leatherman reminds students that the goal is not

perfection — it is balance. Whether that means grabbing

a protein-packed smoothie between classes or simply

making an effort to stay hydrated, small changes can make

a big difference in how college women feel throughout

their day.

By paying attention to hunger and fullness cues,

fueling the body with nourishing foods and practicing

self-compassion, students can build a healthy relationship

with food that extends beyond college.

alice.ua.edu 85

From A to Zinc:

A Guide to

Women’s

Supplements

By Gabby Fulkerson

By definition, supplements are meant to complete

or enhance whatever they are added to. Knowing

this, it is important to understand how vitamin

supplements can help to fill in the gaps of nutrients one

may miss in their diets.

While it is possible to go through life without

supplemental nutrients or vitamins, there is a lack of

education on what benefits they can bring to daily life.

In an article published by United Nations

Children’s Fund,

nearly 70% of girls and

women globally suffer from

nutrient deficiencies.

Supplements are not cures for issues that one

may have; instead, they can provide a boost to a person’s

quality of life.

86

There are several nutrients and vitamins that

many women should consider looking into.

Calcium can reduce the risk of osteoporosis,

along with vitamin D, which plays a role in bone health

and assists with absorption of calcium. While more

research is needed, it is commonly thought by healthcare

professionals that vitamin B12 can help fight heart disease

and reduces the risk of breast cancer.

However, supplements are not one size fits all.

“It is recommended to have lab work done to

determine if a woman has a true deficiency,” says Ashley

Shankool, a registered dietitian nutritionist. “Supplements

of vitamins and minerals can be advantageous for health

if determined the body needs a boost, otherwise it may be

a waste of money.”

Do not get distracted by “too good to be true”

gummies that promise benefits like extreme hair growth

and weight loss. While some might have underlying

benefits, these placebo pills and gummies can lead to

a general mistrust of all vitamins, supplements and

minerals.

Shankool gives women a piece of advice when

looking at supplements that may not be truly effective: “Be

wary of a supplement promising the world. If it sounds

too good to be true, it probably is,” she says.

The most important thing to know about

supplements is that one will not reap the full benefits

without knowing what supplements can truly help their

specific needs.

“A woman should have regular check up with

their healthcare professional to address any concerns

regarding micronutrient intake,” says Ileana Ritchey, a

registered dietitian. “The healthcare professional should

evaluate for deficiency and recommend additional

supplements based on clinical findings.”

Deficiencies can be helped with a balanced,

nutritious diet. However, many women can be too busy to

ensure that their diet is rich in all the vitamins, minerals

and nutrients that they need to stay afloat.

There is no such thing as being “too prepared”

or “too healthy.” Supplements can be beneficial at any age,

but the sooner one understands their body, the more one

can benefit.

Ella Grace Grigsby, a senior communication

studies student at The University of Alabama, has had a

positive experience with supplements.

“Supplements have helped me stay on top of my

fitness and wellness goals by giving me the extra support

I need, whether it’s for energy, recovery or overall health,”

Grigsby says. “I can see and feel such a big difference

when I take my supplements daily in comparison to when

I don’t. I highly recommend supplements to everyone. If

it can change my life, then it can change yours, too!”

Before buying a supplement a stranger on the

internet raved about, be sure to speak with a professional

who can give advice tailored to one’s specific needs.

Supplements are meant to make taking care of oneself

easier, so maybe it is time to take advantage of them.

Photos by Gabriella Lopez


alice.ua.edu 87

Full Body Wellness

and itsImpacton

By Emilee Boster

Design by Natalie Adams

Longevity

For centuries, people have searched for the key

to living longer. Early explorers traveled to find

the Fountain of Youth, with hopes that bathing

in its water would keep them young. Now, drinks and

supplements are concocted to cure illnesses and add

years back to life. Some people even plan to use advanced

technology for immortality.

Over the years, doctors and researchers have

conducted countless studies and interviews to discover

why some people live longer than others but have yet to

find one specific source of longevity.

However, research shows that

a group of behaviors including

movement, nutrition and mental

exercise can support a person

throughout all stages of life

by reducing the risk of chronic

illnesses and decreased brain and

body functions.

Battogtokh Zagdsuren, a clinical assistant

professor of exercise science at The University of Alabama,

studies the neurobehavioral mechanisms that drive

physical activity and sedentary behavior. Zagdsuren says

there are two sources of motivation for people to exercise:

the force of habit and enjoyment.

“From childhood, we want to make sure that

kids love being active and fall in love with playing sports

and have this positive association with it,” Zagdsuren says.

Even though people understand the benefits of

exercise, such as improving cardiovascular health, building

the immune system and growing stronger muscles,

humans are not rational beings. Simply understanding

the benefits is not enough to begin exercising. There must

be greater motivation to build consistency.

Amanda Wilkerson, associate professor of UA’s

Department of Health Science, studies factors that lead

to sedentary behaviors, particularly in the workplace, and

develops strategies to increase physical activity.

She suggests using a standing desk for people

who frequently work while sitting at a desk. Not only

is metabolic activity higher when standing, but it also

activates postural muscles, which could reduce ergonomic

pains felt long-term.

“That standing behavior does displace some

of the negative effects from sitting, but not all of them,”

Wilkerson says. “Movement is also key and getting

that physical activity outside of the workplace is still

important.”

She recommends people use their work breaks

to increase movement, such as walking to a farther

bathroom or using the stairs. People can also schedule

walking meetings with colleagues outside when the

weather is ideal or walk around the parking lot on lunch

breaks.

“Those small things can make a difference,”

Wilkerson says. “Make it a part of your routine.”

Wilkerson says when people implement either

standing or walking time during non-intensive tasks,

such as writing emails or entering data, they can create a

habit more quickly.

Movement is only one piece of

this longevity puzzle; a healthy

diet is another.

88

Seung Eun Jung, an associate professor in UA’s

Department of Human Nutrition, Hospitality and Sport

Management, studies how to increase the consumption of

whole grains among older, low-income adults.

Her research, specifically the Eat WELL study,

focuses on whole grains because their nutrients can

decrease the risk of common health issues like heart

disease, diabetes and digestive problems.

“Eating whole grains and maintaining a

nutritious diet can have a positive impact on how long we

live and our overall health,” Jung says. “Whole grains, in

particular, are tied to a lot of health benefits that may help

increase lifespan by preventing chronic diseases, which

are major factors in how long someone lives.”

Jung’s research is designed to increase the

awareness of the health benefits of whole grains. The

goal of the study is to increase the consumption of whole

grains to the ideal three to five servings a day. This way,

people feel fuller longer, are less likely to overeat and can

reduce the risk of obesity-related diseases.

There are also other essential

vitamins and nutrients people

should incorporate into their diet

to decrease the risk of chronic

diseases and illnesses.

Deniz Azarmanesh, an associate professor in

UA’s Department of Human Nutrition and Hospitality

Management, studies the Dietary Inflammation Index

(DII), which ranks people’s diet based on its level of

inflammation. For example, antioxidants such as vitamins

A and C are low on the inflammatory scale, while iron,

a nutrient, can be inflammatory when ingested in high

amounts.

Azarmanesh says that people may be confused

about the quality of their diets due to online information,

but new research has not changed nutrition guidance.

“We see that people who eat a lot of processed

foods have worse health outcomes, whether it be

depression, heart disease, cancer or diabetes,” Azarmanesh

says.

Her recommendation: eat fruits, vegetables and

whole grains and limit processed foods and saturated fats.

A low inflammatory diet can

also have a positive effect on the

brain.

Inflammatory factors can enter the bloodstream

and cross the blood-brain barrier, causing inflammation

in the brain. The body uses its nutrients and amino

acids to remove the inflammatory markers, reducing

the amount available to produce serotonin, the happy

neurotransmitter.

“By putting pressure on the body, we are

making the body make the decision of where to put those

resources: get rid of the junk or what makes us happy,”

Azarmanesh says.

Even with adequate activity and a nutritious

diet, it is important to maintain healthy sleep patterns,

reduce chronic stress and engage in mentally stimulating

activities.

Reading daily is associated

with a lower risk of depression

and loneliness scores. Engaging

in serious social activities

is associated with increased

happiness and a lower risk of

Alzheimer’s disease.

Adding a combination of these activities to one’s

lifestyle may help people live healthier, happier and a bit

longer.

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